January 6th, 2010
As more breeds of dogs are domesticated, the number of available dog training collars are also steadily increasing. Sometimes, it is so hard to keep up on what dog collars to use for your dogs.
Let me guide you through the maze of Dog training collars. Let us take a look at each of the available collars we can have for our dogs.
First, there is the buckle collar. The buckle collar is really like a buckle that we use for our trousers. Buckle collars have buckle fasteners too to secure it over the dog’s neck. The buckle collars for dogs come in different varieties. There are buckle collars that are flat, rolled, made in nylon, or made in leather. The most preferred buckle collars of owners are the ones made in nylon. They are easier to clean, don’t shrink and they come in different colors and styles. The leather ones, although it has been popular, is not very easy to clean and if wrongly washed they may shrivel or shrink.
Another Dog Training Collar especially used for flyball training and sled dog racing is the Martingale collars. Martingale collars provide “limited choke” on the dog’s neck. These collars are not so easy to come off as they really fit the neck of your dog in a very nice way. Martingale collars are so flexible and they eliminate the danger of choking even if the dog gets very excited.
Next is the, Limited Choke Collar. These collars are more like the choke chain but they have rings at the end to make room for a few inches of allowance. To use these collars, you just have to ease the dog training collar from the head of your dog and slip it down its neck and tighten it a little.
An outdated Dog training collar is the choke chain. This was formerly used by dog owners before the invention of the other types of collars. Mostly, choke chains were used for punishment and correction. When a dog misbehaves, the owner would just jerk on the leash and the dog would choke, letting him think twice of what he is doing. Before, choke chains were really made of chains but now they are mostly made of nylon. Choke chains really are a torture to dogs, in some cases when the jerking is very hard, it can damage the windpipe of the dog.
An innovation of the choke chain dog training collar is the Snap-around choke. This is like the choke chain but designed so as not to damage a dog’s windpipe. The snap-around choke is very snugly fit and it is worn up high the dog’s neck and when the leash is jerked, it does not damage the dog’s windpipe and does not jolt the dog that much.
Most of the collars we have discussed are worn around the dog’s neck. However, there are also dog training collars that are worn on the head. These collars are fit on the dog’s head with a leash attached under the dog’s muzzle. The principle of this is that, where the dog’s head is, its body will follow. The dog may not adjust that easily to wearing these kinds of dog collars and they may look like a pony halter or a muzzle.
Next is the Pronged or the German Pinch dog training collar. This collar is especially made for dogs that are wild, unruly and difficult to control. These collars apply pressure on the protruding areas in the dog’s neck therefore it effectively catches the dog’s attention. This kind of dog training collar does not damage the dog’s windpipe
Another dog training collar is the electronic collar. These collars set off radio waves that shock the dog. The consequence of using this kind of collar is that your dog will always leave on fear and negative anticipation of the next shock. Electronic collars should not be used by novice trainers as they may not know how to properly make use of this collar.
There is also this thing called the no-bark collars. These are generally not really collars but they are used to train dogs not to bark. It is oftentimes very damaging and not beneficial on the dog to use this kind of collar.
There are still so many dog training collars available. They are constantly evolving to make collars as comfortable and as dog-friendly as possible. Other dog training collars include: light-up collars, they light up or glow at night; ornamental collars; schutzhund training collars and many others.
An important thing in choosing a dog training collar is that they must cater to your needs and should not be damaging to any of the dog’s anatomy. It is also important to weigh the pros and cons of each kind of collar so that both you and your dog will be benefited from that dog training collar you have chosen.
About the Author: Gina Marie Capatar writes on a variety of topics. She is a freelance writer and the head writer for http://www.isnare.com You may contact her at gina@isnare.com or visit http://outsourcing.isnare.com for writing job proposals.
Source: www.isnare.com
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November 29th, 2009
Children aren’t the only ones who should be closely
monitored on Halloween. The holiday can be a scary and
dangerous time for your pet as well.
By following some simple tips you can keep your pet safe and
comfortable without infringing on the family fun:
1. Don’t put costumes on your pets unless they are used to
it. Wearing clothing can make pets uncomfortable and even
sick.
2. Candy is for humans and not for their furry friends.
3. Chocolate is toxic to animals. It can make them very sick.
Make sure that the “after Halloween” candy is put away so
your pet can’t get it–especially the chocolate. We hear
from owners every year of pets they had to take to the
emergency room because they managed to find the candy and
eat it. Give them a pet treat instead.
4. If you know or suspect your pet has eaten some Halloween
candy contact your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Some candies,
especially chocolate, can be life threatening. If you can’t
reach your veterinarian you can call the ASPCA’s Poison
Control Center 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (888) 426-
4435.
Caution: A $50 consultation fee may be applied to your
credit card.
5. Costumes may look strange to people, but just imagine
what they look like to a dog or cat. Animals aren’t used to
seeing that kind of thing, and it could frighten them. So,
it’s best not take them trick or treating.
6. If your pet isn’t good with strangers, it’s best to put
her in a separate room away from the door, so she won’t be
bothered by the presence of strangers.
7. If your pet is going to be free in the house, with the
door being opened repeatedly, there is more of a chance that
your pet can get outside. So, remember to make sure he is
wearing his license tags. That way, if he does get away,
there is a better chance of getting him back home sooner.
About the Author
James Kelly is the owner of Travelin Pets, a web site
specializing in providing information and quality products
for traveling pets and their owners.
Visit his website at: http://www.travelinpets.com
e-mail: tpservices@travelinpets.biz
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May 22nd, 2009
Cat and dog fleas are more than just an itchy nuisance, fleas are a health hazard to animals and humans alike. Fleas carry diseases, Anemia, dermatitis and harmful parasites, like tapeworms, are just a few to name. It’s not only kind but important to keep pets fleafree. Fortunately it’s a relative simple procedure to keep your pets free of fleas and their associated diseases by using effective Flea Control products namely:
Advantage for both Cats and Dogs, active ingredient (imidacloprid), this is a topical product which is placed directly onto the animals skin which will prevent and kill fleas.
Frontline for both Cats and Dogs, active ingredient (fipronil), again a topical product and like Advantage is placed directly onto your pets skin to prevent and kill fleas.
Program for both Cats and Dogs, active ingredient (lufenuron), unlike Advantage and Frontline, this Flea Control treatment is administered orally and inhibits the development of the flea.
Another Flea Control methods which should be done, in the war against fleas and in conjunction with the above effective Flea Control products are, using a flea comb with tightly spaced teeth. By combing your pet every day, especially during the flea season (March through October or year-round in hotter climes). Whilst combing always be on the look out for flea dirt, gritty black specks, which is actually flea feaces, a sure sign that fleas have infested.
Prevention of fleas is easier than the removal of them. One of the best defenses against chronic infestations is maintaining your pet’s health.
As an added Flea Control protectant, try natural repellents instead of synthetic sprays or dips, which may contain harmful insecticides. Some chemicals in flea collars, dips and sprays can be very bad for our pets, Fleas can adapt to these types of Flea control treatments and mutate, therefore making the Flea Control treatment inefficient.
Because fleas reproduce faster than bunny rabbits, removing them from your pet is only half the battle, you need to get them from your home. Vacuum all surfaces where fleas (and their eggs) may hide, these include carpets, bare floors, chairs and beds. Put a flea collar in the vacuum bag to kill any fleas that may escape and reinfest your home. Dispose of the bag immediately after vacuuming. Always be sure to wash blankets and sheets in hot water.
Fleas are resilient, but with a little vigilance and an effective Flea Control treatment, your pet and your home can become a zero flea zone.
About the Author
If you have a pet related web site and you wish to reproduce the above article you are welcome to do so, provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this live link to: 1 Flea Control
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May 22nd, 2009
In the United States alone, over 60 million households have one or more pets. Pet owners in 15 million of those households travel with their pets, and the majority stay in pet-friendly lodging. Fortunately, pet friendly hotels, condos and vacation home rentals do exist.
If you will be traveling with your pet, here are some pet friendly tips to remember for safe and trouble-free travel.
1 - When you make your reservation, double-check that pets are allowed. An important advantage of reserving online is that you can see - in writing - whether or not pets are permitted and any restrictions. Online, you can print out your reservation receipt that includes the “pets allowed” information. Verbal reservations leave more room for misunderstanding and miscommunication. If reserving by telephone, ask the reservation person to mail you a confirmation receipt that includes the “pets allowed” information.
2 - Is your pet an experienced traveler? If not, you should begin getting your pet more accustomed to traveling. Begin by making your car a fun place for your pet. Get in the car with them, play with them, give them a treat - have them enjoy being there with you. Then take a short drive with them. Gradually increase the length of time and distance that you drive with them. Before making a long trip with your pet, the idea is to have them comfortable with being in the car for extended periods of time.
3 - Remember that securing your pet while traveling in the car is crucial for their safety and yours. Consider purchasing a dog safety harness for your pet to use while traveling in the car. If you have a station wagon or SUV, you can purchase a vehicle barrier that keeps your pet confined to the rear area. They are usually sold at pet stores or are available online.
4 - Be sure that your pet has an identification tag and wears it while on the trip. The tag should have your pet’s name, your name and phone number. If possible, use your cell phone number, a home number and the number of where you will be staying.
5 - Carry a photograph of your pet with you on your trip. If your pet should ever become lost, you’ll be able to show others exactly what your pet looks like instead of just relying on a verbal description.
6 - Check with your vet for any recommended vaccinations appropriate for your trip - exposure to ticks while hiking, exposure to other dogs while boarding or heartworm prevention if your dog will be exposed to mosquitoes are examples of important preventative measures to take before your trip. If your pet is a dog, have an up-to-date rabies tag for your dog’s collar. If you decide to day board your dog while on vacation, you may be required to show paperwork proof of the rabies vaccination.
7 - Once you arrive at the pet friendly lodging, inform the check-in person that you have your pet. You can inquire if there are any restricted areas where your pet should not be taken. Pet friendly lodging staff should be very accustomed to answering these kinds of questions and will appreciate your awareness.
8 - In your hotel room, condo, cabin rental or vacation home rental - never let your pet use the furniture or beds to sit, lay or sleep on unless you’ve covered the furniture or bed with your own cover. Place your pet’s food and water containers on a mat or newspaper in the bathroom, where cleanup will be easier. When staying in pet friendly accommodations, you may choose to feed your pet outdoors.
9 - If you’ll be leaving your pet alone in the room or vacation rental, make sure the front desk or rental agent knows. Be sure that you leave your pet secured in their travel container or crate if housekeeping staff will be entering the room at any time to clean. You certainly don’t want a housekeeper to enter and be surprised or even attacked by your pet! A pet may also run out of the room when housekeeping enters if left unsecured.
10 - Be very careful in warm or hot weather with leaving your pet in the car. Even when the outside temperature is only in the 70’s or 80’s, the interior of a vehicle can reach 100 degrees and higher, especially when parked in the sun. It doesn’t take long at these temperatures to cause serious or even fatal harm to your pet.
Traveling with pets and staying in pet friendly lodging can be lots of fun - after all, your pet is part of your family too. Just using common sense and planning ahead makes for an enjoyable and surprise-free vacation.
About the Author
David Buster is Vice-President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.bestvacationrentalsonline.com - visit the website for more on pet friendly lodging and to find log cabin rentals, vacation home rentals, condos and chalets, places to get married, discount hotel rooms, adventure travel and more.
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May 10th, 2009
Selling a Horse -
The best new tool for people selling horses is the Internet. You can describe your horse in detail and publish pictures, list a pedigree, show record and accomplishments - all for a very reasonable price. Your ad is posted immediately and your exposure to potential buyers is much greater than newspapers, flyers and word of mouth.
Online listings are the fastest growing and most efficient way to match sellers and buyers of horses. Your prospective buyers are “pre-qualified” because your horse matches the characteristics they listed in their search.
Buying a Horse -
The fastest growing, least expensive and most efficient way to match sellers and buyers of horses is the Internet. Sellers have found that they get more exposure for their horses, the cost is very reasonable and listing a horse is fast and easy. This means that the easiest and most efficient way to locate horses for buyers is also online.
The benefits of online shopping for potential horse buyers include searches as general or as specific as you wish, pictures and details about each horse and MANY MORE HORSES to CHOOSE FROM!
If you only want to consider horses close to home, no problem. Enter your zip code and a mileage radius. If you have a specific price, breed, gender, training level, pedigree or color in mind, use a more detailed search to locate only horses matching your needs. What could be easier and more fun?
Of course, you will still need to use all your tools to evaluate the horses you choose to see, but isn’t it nice to know that you have so many choices?
At HorseAndRiderMatch.com we have tried to design the user-friendliest, eye appealing and cost effective way for you as an online seller to get your horse sold fast. Our convenient horse classifieds help you to find and sell horses quickly and easily. For more information on listing your horse or finding your horse, please click here. For a plethora of articles about buying, selling and owning horses, please click here.
About the Author
Buying and selling horses online can be both a stressful and time-consuming activity if you don’t go about it the right way. With the right resources this activity can be enjoyable and informative.
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May 10th, 2009
We have talked about the importance of both diet and exercise when dealing with a pet that has arthritis. I think that diet is such an important issue that it is one we should discuss in greater detail. It is becoming common knowledge that as humans, our bodies perform better when we “eat right.” It is equally important for pets to follow healthy food guidelines as well.
The Generic Foods
There are three “groups” of processed foods and it usually one or more of these that we purchase to feed our pets: 1) the “Generic” group, 2) the “Premium” group, and 3) the “natural foods” group. The first group is the focus of this discussion. All three groups appeal to us for obvious reasons. We like the convenience factor. All we have to do is “scoop and dish it.”
This first group that I will call the “generics” is the least desirable from a nutritional standpoint. Of course, that is why they carry the lowest price tag. Unfortunately, when you are trying to provide a healthy diet to an arthritic pet, it frankly does a less than desirable job in my opinion.
What is that stuff?
This is the category of pet foods that contains animal and plant by-products. If you are paying attention, they also contain artificial preservatives and additives. This group of pet foods uses the cheapest possible ingredients. Unfortunately, manufacturers are not held to extremely high standards here.
It is also important to note that pet food is a “spin-off” of the human food industry. As we all know, the standards are certainly higher for food manufactured for humans than it is for pets. What happens is that the pet food segment of this industry gets the opportunity to “unload” ingredients that would not pass muster for humans.
This is where you will find that even the “grains” purported to be in these foods is either over processed or is whole grain that is simply not fit for humans to eat. As well, there are often parts of an animal used in manufacturing pet food that frankly put, is not the least bit desirable.
Measuring Up
You do not have to become a “food expert” to make decisions here. Assuming you can afford to spend a little extra for pet food, use some common sense.
Price is a good guideline. If you see a 40-pound bag of dog food that is on sale for $12.95, it is likely not on the most desirable food list (a least, not from my standpoint.) If you study the label, it likely will tell you that this is correct.
Premium and All-Natural
When you move up in price, you are likely looking at “premium” and “all-natural” offerings. The premium brands are going to be on most store shelves and usually they are sold by veterinarians as well. Even this food group does not necessarily have the finest ingredients. Unfortunately, price alone does not always tell the story here.
The “all-natural” pet foods, generally speaking, are the best of the bunch. These use natural preservatives and you are not going to find artificial flavoring or coloring. Of course, the price corresponds to the quality and for some of you it is not feasible from a budget standpoint.
I have recommended using raw vegetables as part of your pet’s diet. It is far less expensive and once they get used to it (and, if you do not overdo it) it is a healthy and less expensive approach.
Pets with arthritis need solid and healthy nutrition. If your budget allows you the luxury of giving them the best, then opt for the all-natural group.
Remember, high-quality liquid glucosamine is only part of the picture. To get an arthritic pet healthier overall, it requires attention to both diet and exercise as well.
About the Author
JR Rogers is the owner of Synflex America Inc. makers of Syn-flex, a premium glucosamine arthritis formula for humans and household pets.
The author’s statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not provided to diagnose or to suggest that liquid glucosamine and chondroitin will treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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May 8th, 2009
from David the Dogman
Just this side of Heaven is a place called The Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill or old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling to each other in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…
Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
 Brought to you by: World Wide Information Outlet - http://certificate.net/wwio/, your source of FREEWare Content online.
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN.
David is a Canine Behaviourist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388.
His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police. He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388
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May 4th, 2009
Ozzie, my four-month old Rottweiler peered up at me with his big brown eyes, as I temporarily left him for a very important surgical procedure. As much as it broke my heart to drop off my “baby” at the local humane society, I know it was the responsible thing to do.
What Ozzie doesn’t know is that today is the first day of the rest of his life. He is being neutered.
Being a rescue volunteer, I’ve acquired a rather large brood of dogs into my family circle. Having adopted six boys and two girls of the canine species, I’ve come to complete understanding of the importance of spaying and neutering our furry companions.
Persons who come in contact with me and my animals will ask, “how can you spay and neuter these beautiful animals? You could breed them and make a profit.”
When I encounter these folks, I tend to get a little testy and become a bit wordy with an explanation to the multiple reasons behind my choice as a responsible pet owner:
- (All animals are beautiful, but unless an individual has the time, funding or resources to “breed” puppies, it is not a good idea to permit one’s animals to produce offspring that may end up in a “puppy mill” environment.
(For more information on “Puppy Mills,” go to www.puppymillrescue.com )
- Spaying or neutering is a fairly inexpensive procedure if done at your local shelter or Humane Society Spay or Neuter Clinic. Furthermore, spaying and neutering has minimal risks and is one of the most common, animal surgical procedures.
(For the address of your local Humane Society, click here: www.napcc.aspca.org )
- A spayed or neutered animal behaves better. While unsterilized males tend to roam in search of a mate, they risk injury or death due to traffic and fight incidents. They also tend to mark territory with urine, and can be quite embarrassing when they decide to mount objects and human legs when excited. Unsterilized females will also roam, have bloody discharge, will yowl and urinate more often during heat cycles; and have a tendancy to tear or chew their way out of an enclosure. Neutered or spayed dogs and cats focus primarily on their human counterparts and do not exhibit behavior patterns as mentioned above.
- My main reason for spaying or neutering: Spayed or Neutered animals live longer, healthier lives. “…By neutering a male cat or dog before six months of age prevents testicular cancer and prostate disease. Spaying a female cat or dog helps prevent pyometra and breast cancer…” (Facts from ASPCA® “Why Spay or Neuter?” Flyer) Additionally, spaying or neutering your animals can prolong their lives by an average of two to three years.
- Responsibility. Millions of animals needlessly suffer and die every year. Why? Everybody loves cuddly puppies and cute kittens, but when these once-adorable babies grow up, children and adults, alike may lose interest in caring for them. Usually, these animals end up in shelters where they may be euthanized - or worse, get “put out” where they end up as strays. Strays, unfortunately, may die from starvation, disease, weather exposure or being hit by traffic.
When I was younger, I used to watch Bob Barker’s “The Price is Right” on television. At the end of each and every show, I candidly recall Mr. Barker reiterating, “Help control the pet population, have your pets spayed or neutered today.” What a profound and responsible statement that is. You see, if you do your part by helping control the pet population, you may just save a life. Do you love your animal companion(s)? I do.
©2004 - All Rights Reserved
Love your Animal Companion? Spay or Neuter
C. Bailey-Lloyd / Lady Camelot
About the Author:
C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot is the Public Relations Director & Writer for Holistic Junction — Your source of information for Holistic Practitioners; Naturopathic Schools, Massage Therapy Schools, and Reflexology Schools; Alternative Healthcare; Insightful Literature and so much more!
NOTICE: Article may be republished free of charge as long as Author Resource Box (above) is included, and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN in tact and active.
About the Author
C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot is the Public Relations Director & Writer for Holistic Junction — Your source of information for Holistic Practitioners; and Naturopathic Schools
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May 4th, 2009
A wise old man had once told me - listen to a talking cockatiel and you will feel as happy as with a child. I did not understand his words until the day I decided to keep cockatiels as pets. Oh, they are simply adorable!
If you want to listen to a talking cockatiel, you need to train it that way. Cockatiels, in the entire parrot family, are not well known as talkers. They are more famous for whistling tunes of your favorite songs. However, when it does, it is an experience to listen to a talking cockatiel. It is simply delightful to listen to a childish voice emanating from a cute, feathery, white bird.
Guests at my place are more eager to listen to a talking cockatiel than to the drab conversation among humans! Cockatiels can be picked up and played with. The cockatiels are so sweet and gentle by nature they provide unlimited entertainment to both old and young. Listen to a talking cockatiel whistle in glee when it sees corn and millets for lunch…and you will be rolling into laughter.
A cockatiel will make itself an integral part of your life. It is so cute you can’t help but fall in love with the cute bundle of feathers. Your joy increases manifold when you listen to a talking cockatiel call out your name in public to remind you that you belong to it and no one else.
About the Author
The author is a parrot lover for the last 12 years and is the owner of the website http://www.pet-parrots.com
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May 2nd, 2009
What should pet owners know about dog dental care and periodontal disease?
An important aspect of the good dog dental care is proper dental hygiene. One of the most common ailments treated by veterinarians is periodontal or gum disease. Gum disease is progressive. It starts out with the formation of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms in the mouth at the gum line. If not removed plaque will harden into tartar above and below the gum line. This build up causes the gums to become red and swollen, a condition known as gingivitis.
If gingivitis is left untreated it can lead to advanced gum disease. Red swollen gums will begin to recede as the infection travels down into the root of the tooth and the jawbone. Once the gums have receded the damage is irreversible and the gums will not grow back. This is known as periodontal disease and results in loss of bone and loss of teeth. At this advanced stage the bacteria from the oral infection may now enter the bloodstream. This can lead to more serious problems such as heart, liver and kidney disease. These conditions if left untreated can eventually become life threatening. These problems can also be prevented by implementing a good dog dental care routine.
Why should I routinely inspect my dog’s mouth?
By two or three years of age many pets start to show signs of oral disease. By implementing a home dog dental care routine you can assure that your dog’s mouth stays healthy, clean and pain free. Start by routinely inspecting your dog’s mouth. A healthy mouth will not smell offensive. The teeth will be clean and will not have any yellow or brown spots. The gums will be a healthy pink color and will hug the teeth.
What are the signs of gum disease in dogs?
Persistent bad breath, brownish deposits around the gum line, especially on back teeth, red swollen gums, loose teeth, painful and or bleeding gums are all indicators of oral disease. Although bad breath or “doggy breath” is the most obvious sign of a problem, many pet owners fail to recognize it as an indicator of dental problems until it’s too late. As part of a good dog dental care routine check your dog’s mouth at the slightest sign of a persistent offensive odor. Other indications can be decreased appetite and weight loss, a change in chewing habits, lethargy, and pawing of the mouth or the face.
What should I do if my dog’s mouth shows signs of gum disease?
Dog dental care starts by checking your dog’s mouth regularly. If you see any of these signs call your vet to schedule a dental exam. Your dog may just need a routine cleaning. The cleaning process is performed under general anesthesia. If the condition is minor, it’s not much different than a dental cleaning that you or I would have done. Your dog’s teeth will be scaled to remove tartar above and below the gum line and then they will be polished. Since your dog can’t rinse and spit the mouth area will be flushed to clear it of any loosened debris.
If the condition is more serious your vet may need to administer an antibiotic to clear up any gum infection before cleaning your dog’s teeth. Blood work will usually be taken so that your vet can determine if the infection has spread into the bloodstream. If the disease is in the advanced stages your vet may also need to extract some teeth. Whatever the outcome, your dog is sure to feel a lot better after receiving some much needed dog dental care.
Remember to regularly inspect your pet’s mouth, schedule periodic dental check ups, and perform routine home dental care.
How important is home dog dental care?
Regular cleanings by your vet followed up by a home dental care program can help keep your dog’s mouth healthy and disease free. Even if your dog’s teeth are currently in good condition a preventative home dental care routine is essential to your dog’s health. If not regularly removed, plaque and tartar build up can progress very quickly into full blown periodontal disease.
If you’re new to dog dental care ask your vet to show you how to brush your dog’s teeth. Also find out if there is anything else that your vet would recommend adding to your dog’s preventative home dental care routine.
One recommendation is to entice your dog to chew. Daily chewing exercises will help remove food debris and prevent tartar build up. They’re also great for relieving boredom and separation anxiety. So put your pet to work. Give your dog plenty of fun and yummy real bones, dental dog chew toys, and edible dog chews as part of your home dog dental care routine.
Do I need to brush my dog’s teeth?
The most direct method of preventative dog dental care is brushing your dog’s teeth regularly. Vets usually recommend that you brush your dog’s teeth at least two times a week. If your dog is prone to dental disease you may need to do this more often.
What should I use to brush my dog’s teeth?
If you have a young puppy introducing a tooth brushing routine will probably be much easier then if you have an adult dog. In either case start slow, keep the sessions short, and be very gentle while working in your dog’s mouth. Use lots of praise and reassurance to reinforce good behavior. You will not want to give your dog treats during this task for obvious reasons.
Since a dog will swallow whatever you use never brush your dog’s teeth with “people” toothpaste. This toothpaste is not formulated to be ingested and can upset your dog’s stomach. It’s also designed to foam which is not desirable when brushing a dog’s teeth. So use a pet toothpaste formulated for dog dental care that does not require rinsing.
You will also need a pet toothbrush. There’s a great triple sided pet toothbrush that will get the job done faster than a traditional style toothbrush. Or if you have a small dog you may want to try a pet finger toothbrush. Finger toothbrushes slip right onto your finger and are easily controlled to reach the common trouble spots up near the gum line. Add some specially formulated tartar removing toothpaste and you’re all set. Dog toothpaste is even available in all-natural formulas and yummy flavors like chicken and vanilla.
If this is your dog’s first toothbrush look for a pet dental care kit to get you started. These kits typically include a pet toothbrush, a tube of pet toothpaste and a pet finger toothbrush.
Pet dental wipes are great for use on dogs that resist brushing. These easy-to-use pet teeth cleaning pads help remove food debris and plaque, kill germs and help to control bad breath. If your dog will not allow you to use the toothbrush method try using dental wipes regularly as part of your dog’s home dental care program.
You may also want to try to increase the amount of time your dog spends chewing on real bones, dental dog chew toys and edible dog chews.
This type of chewing helps remove food debris and prevents tartar build up. If your dog chews enough you may be able to reduce how often you need to manually brush your dog’s teeth.
How do dog’s in the wild keep their teeth clean and healthy?
Dogs in the wild are generally much more active than our domesticated pets because they must hunt for their food. They also spend much more time chewing and gnawing on fresh bones, which helps to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
Our domesticated dogs can spend a lot of time sleeping with their mouths closed while passing long period of time alone. It is commonly believed that the lack of fresh air circulating over the teeth and gums can encourage certain types of bacterial growth in the mouth. And since our pet dogs get their daily rations served to them in bowls it isn’t necessary for them to spend much time chewing. Although gnawing on bones is how dogs in the wild keep their teeth free from food debris, bacterial accumulation and tartar buildup, our domesticated friends rarely spend as much time at such pursuits.
Encouraging your dog to chew will make a big difference in the effectiveness of your dog dental care routine. Real bones are nature’s edible dog chews. But if you prefer not to give your dog real bones there are plenty of wonderful dental dog chew toys and edible dog chews that will get the job done.
Will real bones help keep clean my dog’s teeth?
Give your dog some real bones - Nature’s own edible dog chews. Most people don’t provide their dog with quantities of real bones, so as to avoid the mess and unsanitary residue. It’s great if you have an environment in which your dog can indulge in working on a fresh bone. But if not, you can buy some natural sterilized marrowbones. These hollow bones are also available pre-filled with tasty treats like beef, chicken, cheese, and granola.
If you get some unfilled bones you may want to try filling them with your dog’s favorite treats. Try peanut butter, cheese or one of the yummy pre-made fillings available at pet shops and online stores.
If you would rather not give your dog real bones there are many enticing dental dog chew toys and edible dog chews available that will encourage your dog to chew.
Besides real bones what other types of dog chews will help keep my dog’s teeth clean?
Traditional chew toys are still available and are just as popular as ever. But there are also a variety of very good dental chew toys, rope bone chew toys and edible dog chews designed to keep your dog engaged, with the added benefit of cleaning the teeth. These toys will entice your dog into playfully attending to the required dental hygiene. They can also keep your dog entertained and out of mischief during those times when you must leave your dog alone.
Rope Bone Chew Toys -Try a dental rope chew toy for great flossing action. As your dog happily chews on these toys the rope fibers clean between the teeth. Spray on some dog dental care spray or rub on a little flavored pet toothpaste to really enhance the cleaning action of this enticing dental chew toy. Check out a pet dental care spray & rope chew toy kit and get your dog dental care routine going today.
Dental Chew Toys - For long lasting chewing fun, and a great dental workout, get your dog a dental chew toy. Some brands are manufactured with grooves that make these dental toys real winners for cleaning your dog’s teeth. Some dental chew toys can also be stuffed with your dog’s favorite treats for hours of stimulating chewing. And for smaller dogs there are dental chew toys that not only have teeth cleaning grooves but also are combined with a rope chew. Just add some pet toothpaste to the dental grooves and your dogs will eagerly participate in their daily dog dental care routine.
Edible Dog Chews - Are you concerned about giving your dog rawhide chews because they can “ribbon” and cause your dog to choke? Many pet hops and online stores now carry a variety of composite chews. These all natural rawhide dog chews can’t ribbon, are easy to digest and dogs love the baked in flavor. There is even an edible dog chew treat available that contains no animal by-products.
Dogs, like people, have different tastes and preferences. Choose whichever dental dog toy or dog chew treat that will keep your dog happily chewing his or her way to clean and healthy teeth and gums.
And remember that there are many convenient dog dental care products available that will help you to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in great shape between regular visits to the vet and grooming salon. Unattended dental health problems cannot only distress your beloved pet, but can lead to serious conditions and ailments. Many of these problems can be prevented by implementing a regular home dog dental care routine.
About the Author: Article courtesy of: http://www.dog-supplies-advisor.com/home-dog-grooming.html dedicated to providing quality dog care advice on a broad range of dog-related topics. Includes articles, frequently asked questions, recommendations, and Free Ezine.
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