General products

Fleas are the most common external parasite of pets in North America. Fleas are small wingless insects that use their specialized mouth to pierce the skin and siphon blood from their host. When a flea bites, it injects a small amount of saliva into the skin to prevent the blood from coagulating. Some animals become sensitized to flea saliva and animals that are allergic can have severe itching and scratching from a single bite. Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common disease among dogs.

Current flea control products are primarily either oral or topical systemic treatments. Most of the products may be used for prevention as well as to treat existing flea problems. One group of products control fleas by interrupting their development by killing or stopping the maturation of flea larvae and eggs. These drugs are called Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs). One common oral product used is lufenuron which is found in the Program® line of products which are administered orally in tablet or liquid form. Methoprene and pyriproxifen are also IGRs that are available as sprays or collars. The FDA shares regulation of these products with the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Because even the same products from other countries have not been approved by these agencies, it is illegal to purchase or import these products for use in the United States.

Currently the most popular flea control products kill adult fleas (adulticide), are applied topically and work rapidly. Popular topical products utilize fipronil which is the key ingredient in Frontline® Top Spot and imidacloprid which is in Advantage®. The most popular product on the market, Frontline Plus®, utilizes both an adulticide and an IGR. An oral adulticide that is also available is nitenpyram which is in Capstar® and begins to kill fleas in 30 minutes. Frontline Plus also kills ticks which makes it the most popular product where ongoing tick protection is required.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine which flea and tick control products are best for you. The choice of flea control will depend on your climate, environment, your pet's activities, and potential for exposure. However, with consistent use, it is almost always possible to control your flea problem. Using these products throughout the year typically will eliminate the need for regular insecticidal use. The following provide additional summary information on selected popular products.

Program from Novartis®

Program is available as a once a month pill or oral liquid suspension to be given with a full meal. Adult fleas that ingest Program's key ingredient, lufenuron, produce sterile eggs. Program does not kill adult fleas so pets remain susceptible to fleas hatching and maturing pupa already present in the environment. Therefore, some time may pass before the all fleas are killed in an environment. In order to stop the life cycle, every animal in the environment must receive lufenuron. Pets should also be sprayed with an adulticide during the first week or two of starting Program.

Advantage from Bayer®

Advantage is applied topically on both dogs and cats and seems to be very well-tolerated by sensitive cats. Advantage kills fleas within 24 hours and 100% protection can be maintained for cats for 21 days and 90% protection can be maintained for dogs for 28 days. Advantage is susceptible to washing off so dogs that are active outdoors and dogs that swim or must be bathed frequently should be re-treated frequently. Up to weekly re-treatment is allowed. The imidacloprid in Advantage does not effect ticks, but K-9Advantix, with permethrin does. K9 Advantix is only labeled for once a month K9 Advantix is ONLY FOR USE WITH DOGS and MUST NOT BE ADMINISTERED TO CATS.

Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus And Frontline Top Spot from Merial®

Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus, and Frontline Top Spot comprise the market leading Frontline flea control product line. The fipronil in Frontline products is a broad spectrum insecticide available as a spray or topical. Fipronil works by binding chemically to the pet's hair and is absorbed through the follicle by the sebaceous glands. As a spray, fipronil kills fleas at 95% for over 80 days after application on dogs and for 1 month with biweekly bathing. Frontline is labeled for puppies and kittens as young as 8 weeks (10 weeks for Top Spot) and it is not washed off by bathing. Frontline is also affective against ticks. Some cats may show minor adverse reactions with high volume use of the alcohol based spray product which should be applied no more than once a month. Frontline Plus also contains the IGR, S-methoprene which inhibits the growth of immature fleas.

Capstar from Novartis®

Capstar is an oral tablet for dogs and cats that may be administered as young as 4 weeks of age. It offers extremely rapid and complete killing of adult fleas and is safe enough that the tablets may be used whenever fleas are seen on your pet as often as once per day. Capstar may be used in combination with an IGR to kill fleas immediately to compliment the long-term control of an IGR such as Program.

Your dog's body has a remarkable immune system of antibodies, which are protein substances produced by cells called lymphocytes, that destroy antigens that invade the body, such as viruses and bacteria.

This system can become supersensitive to such foreign particles as flea saliva, pollen, house dust, and wool, however, and this super sensitivity can produce chemicals that cause an allergy, a severe inflammatory reaction. Allergenic inhalant dermatitis has been well documented in dogs. It is caused by a super sensitivity to certain particles in the air, such as pollen from trees, ragweed, grass, and other plants, house dust, feathers, and wool.

The allergy follows a predictable history:

1. It is inherited, so if the parents had it, the offspring probably will too.

2. It is seasonal - the signs appear about the same time every year.

3. The signs begin between six months and three years of age.

4. The signs include severe biting and scratching, licking the paws, sneezing, rubbing the face, and generalized redness of the skin.

Home treatment is directed toward symptomatic relief and avoiding the foreign particle, or allergen. Bathing your dog with a mild shampoo, (such as baby shampoo) will soothe any skin inflammation and remove any allergens on the hair coat. Calamine lotion can be applied to the irritated skin, and hydrogen peroxide (3 percent), and antibiotic ointments are also helpful.

Your veterinarian will take time to get a good history. He or she may be able to identify the allergen in your pet's environment. If allergic inhalant dermatitis is the problem, most veterinarians at this time use a low dose of steroids to relieve the signs. However, steroids, even in low dose, should mot be given for long-term treatment because they have some very serious side effects.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns do not be afraid to contact your veterinarian.

We're all guilty of it - giving in to those big begging eyes pleading at us for a scrap from the table during dinner. Fido knows just how to get you to concede, and most of us justify that a little won't hurt, or we don't even think of the potential danger at all. But the truth is that human food can be harmful to your pet, and in some cases, can be fatal. It's important to know how certain foods can be unsafe so that you can avoid them for the sake of your animal.

Here is how a few of some of the most common "human foods" become harmful for pets:

Chocolate and other foods containing caffeine

Caffeine is one of the greatest culprits because it contains an alkaloid called theobromine. Theobromine acts as a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic, which in turn can cause a heart attack or other heart and nervous system problems in animals.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are potentially harmful due to the fact that both contain thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats and dogs. Of the two, onions are the most toxic, as consumption of simply one serving by your pet could result in anemia.

Milk

Milk can harm your pet due to the fact that many dogs and cats tend to be lactose intolerant. The consumption of milk and milk products by a lactose intolerant pet creates a breeding ground for bacteria, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Bones

Bones, although commonly known as a great treat for your dog, are potentially very dangerous for pets. Once eaten, bones can splinter and get stuck in the intestines, causing damage or fatality. In most splinter cases, the bones must be removed surgically.

Other Foods

Other human foods to avoid when feeding your pet are: macadamia nuts, potato peelings and green-looking potatoes, rhubarb leaves, moldy/spoiled foods, alcohol, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, broccoli, and raisins or grapes.

Some human foods potentially cause only mild digestive upsets, while others can be fatal. Regardless of the level of danger, the best choice for your pet is to keep him from any potentially harmful foods in order to ensure his health and safety.

During the holiday season, veterinary clinics have noticed a rising in the number of pets that they treat for food-related illnesses. The increase in pet illness is due to the fact that animals are partaking in human foods during mealtime. Although not well known by the public, the consumption of human food to pets is potentially harmful to animals, and in some instances, can be fatal.

The rise in food-related illnesses by pets is a clear indication that the dangers of human food consumption by animals are not understood by the masses.

So, the next time your pet looks up at you with those pleading eyes, show him you care by doing what is truly best for him and feeding him only products meant for pet consumption. In the end, both you and your pet will be glad that you did.

If you are a dog enthusiast just like me then once the playtime has ended and the water and food bowl are full your next concern is probably the overall health of your hound. While many dogs are very resilient they aren't indestructible. Canine health problems can range from straightforward parasitic problems like ticks and fleas to complete internal health concerns. Let's take a look at dogs in general and what they want to stay happy and healthy.

Dog health care involves the complete dog, not just one specific area. The fundamental requirements are good food, water that is clean and exercise together with a clean area to live in with the waste material removed often. Some dogs appear to really like the odor and taste of animal waste, so it is important to keep them from eating it as it can contain worms as well as other diseases.

The various ages and kinds of dogs require various types of food; for instance, you feed a puppy a different diet then you do a bigger mature dog. A lot of the cheaper foods available have additives in them that aren't healthy for a dog to eat. One method to increase the health of your dog and avoid canine health problems is to read the nutrition labels to determine what is in their food and to prevent feeding your dog foods that can cause difficulties with their digestion.

Be Proactive Towards Dog Health Issues

As with health problems among humans, a proactive strategy is best. This might mean educating yourself as to the needs of your dog and remembering that some breeds tend to be more susceptible to problems with bones or hip displacement whereas other highly developed and special breeds may have tendencies to other problems. If you get educated on what is the distinction between a small problem and what's the root disease, it can mean a lot of time, effort and cash saved in the treatment and cure of canine health problems.

The very best method of treatment is to cure the illness rather than treating the symptoms. This might include homeopathic or other treatments for some issues. One example of this is to use natural ways of controlling fleas or ticks, including common herbs that can be sprinkled in their bedding. Using this method minimizes harmful powder from being absorbed through the skin and into the underlying tissues and organs.

Along with digestive problems and genetically prone tendencies, there are common canine health problems that may happen especially if your dog tends to be left alone for any significant time period. Dogs, like humans need others of their kind to be happy and healthy. Being left alone can cause depressive disorders and owner separation anxiety. There is also the possibility your dog could dig his way out of the yard and become a stray and get into fights with other dogs.

Many canine health problems can be found early if you pay attention to your dog and what bowel and bladder habits she or he has along with their diet. If you notice a sudden change in these habits then you might want to have your dog looked over, particularly if there are dark spots in the feces or if your dog has trouble during his or her toilet time. Monitor what your pet eats and any abnormal reaction, this way you can find out if there are any allergens involved. If so then you can find a food that does not include what they're allergic to and steer clear of the issues.

Pet insurance is one of those topics that's discussed amongst canine owners. Some owners don't see a requirement for it yet others do, particularly if they have a breed of canine that's susceptible to developing canine health problems later. Insurance coverage can help save some costs in vet bills by covering the costs of any procedures or treatments that might be necessary for your dog health care.

Most canine health problems can be found early and handled when owners take the time to educate themselves regarding their dogs and the problems and situations that could occur and how to proceed in an emergency scenario. This knowledge can save your pet's life and let you make a difference if something does happen. Dog health is a matter of responsibility and caring, therefore owners ought to be proactive in keeping educated about their lifelong companion and friend.

Dogs usually aren't too worried about consequences. They love to eat things they shouldn't, roll around in things they shouldn't, and in general, act like a dog. Unfortunately, many of these things can bring on unwanted visitors like worms into your dog's world.

Fortunately, if you detect worms early it keeps them from getting worse, thereby making the problem as easy as possible on your dog.

Symptoms for dogs that may have worms:

* Coat no longer shiny

* Not hungry

* Can't get enough to drink

* You see worms or eggs in your dog's feces - This is the most common way to confirm worms. Remember though, not all kinds of worms are visible to the naked eye.

* Visible worms in the area around dog's rear - Tapeworms can appear as small moving segments, and later dry out to look like grains of rice.

* Rubbing the rear on the ground or against furniture - if your dog has an itch in its rear, it may be from worms in the area. However, this could also be from gland issues not related to worms.

* Vomiting, possibly even with visible worms.

* Bloated stomach or belly - This can often occur in puppies who receive worms from their mother.

* Weakness, constant hunger, weight loss - Worms can steal the nutrition your dog should be getting from it's food. This can cause your dog to be weak or constantly hungry, and in some cases, may be losing weight.

* Diarrhea, especially if it contains blood.

Symptoms for dogs [http://www.symptomsfordogs.com] that have worms can usually be treated, should be addressed right away for best results.

How a dog gets worms:


Heartworms can be transmitted from mosquito bites.

Tapeworm infection can be caused by swallowing infected fleas.

Hookworm infection can be caused by swallowing the hookworm eggs or larvae. This can also affect the fetus inside the womb of an infected mother. Drinking water with hookworm larvae in it may also result in hookworm infection.

Roundworms can also infect a puppy fetus while inside the womb. Ingesting infected animals can also infect your dog with round worms.

Whipworms infection occurs due to drinking contaminated water or eating something contaminated.

To prevent worm symptoms for dogs:

Get puppies tested early. As soon as three weeks after birth. They may already be infested and will need to be treated right away.

Get your dog a yearly exam and have a stool specimen checked. Several products exists that protect against roundworms and heartworms.

Keep fleas away. Fleas can transmit tapeworm if your dog swallows them.

Keep your dog away from wildlife, where parasites abound. Dog parks that are not well maintained are a common source of parasites.

Prevent your dog from eating dead animals, such as those of birds, rabbits and rodents. Carcasses can carry worms.

Prevent your dog from eating feces. Yes, this should be obvious, but it is the most common way a dog gets intestinal parasites.

If symptoms in your dog indicate worms, take him/her to the vet to diagnose the condition. Provide your dog with proper treatment to avoid any complications.

Just like how we suffer from hair loss, dogs too have this problem! Hair loss in the course of shedding is usual for dogs. For example, German shepherds and Bernese mountain dogs will shed more hair than wheaten terriers and a few types of Spaniels. Also, all the dogs will shed more during the longer days beginning in the summer than they will during the shorter days starting in the winter. This is due to the seasonal shedding rotations related to variations in light. However, when extreme shedding occurs, especially to the point of baldness, dog hair loss can be a signal of deeper issues.

Symptoms of Dog Hair Loss

Hair loss in dogs is more often than not accompanied by other symptoms like itching and skin irritation. A dog's hair loss indication can be the effect of numerous medical problems including mange, mites, ticks or dermatitis. Home remedies for treating dog hair loss are safe to try to provide momentary relief, but a definite opinion of the reasons should be taken from a vet. Mentioned below are some of the home remedies you can try to get rid of the problem of hair shedding.

Tips of Home Remedies for Dog Hair Loss

1. One of the best ways to reduce excessive shedding in dogs is to start with a healthy diet. Feed your dog with a homemade mix of fully-cooked rice, cooked vegetables and boiled chicken. This home food remedy may reduce the allergies caused by food to your dog and helps in reducing the hair fall.

2. Goldenseal is an excellent natural treatment for dog hair loss as long as it is not overdone. Make a weak mixture of goldenseal tea and apply it to the affected area. Goldenseal is powerful, so be sure not to make the tea too strong.

3. Another home remedy for hair shedding in dogs is to mix a small amount of flaxseed oil in your dog's food. Flaxseed oil contains high amounts of Omega 3, an excellent natural treatment for dog hair loss. After a few weeks you would see the change in your dog's hair fall. It is good for other health benefits too.

4. Olive oil is a good home remedy to apply on dog's coat and skin. It will help moisturize as well as pacify any pain caused by severe itching. Another benefit of olive oil is that it will choke mites, if those fleas are the cause of dog's hair loss. Olive oil is said to give the dog a fine and healthy coat with an amazing shine.

5. Lemon juice has natural antibacterial properties that can be used to treat excessive hair shedding in dogs. Introduce a slice of lemon in warm water and leave for five hours. Strain afterward and apply the lemon juice mixture as a rinse or as a spot treatment.

6. An additional home remedy to follow is to pat your dog in the backyard after the bath and then brush him down. By this way, all the unwanted hair on the dog's coat is removed. Regular baths encourage loose hair to fall out in the tub (or outside) instead of on your furniture. However over-bathing can cause dry skin, which causes fur to fall out.