Never Underestimate the Power of Your Dog’s Nose

When she said goodbye to her German Shepherd puppy, the breeder had no idea that the dog would save the lives of 15 American soldiers in Afghanistan. The pooch used his astronomical sense of smell — 10,000 to 100,000 times as acute as a human being’s — to alert the two-legged members of his patrol to danger.

Most people associate a dog’s sense of smell with a predatory instinct, one that makes certain breeds excellent hunters. However, the mighty nose of man’s best friend has five other unusual uses. You might be surprised at what your dog’s nose could do with the right training from the right dog training professional or the right dog boarding near me.

 

 

Diseases

The list of types of diseases that canines can detect with their heightened olfactory sense is growing. In a 2006 study, five trained dogs identified breast cancer correctly 88 percent of the time and detected lung cancer with 99 percent accuracy just by sniffing patients’ breath. UK researchers found that 65 percent of dogs whose owners have Type 1 diabetes warned their owners about potential attacks hinging on blood sugar levels. Specially trained pooches also have a high rate of success detecting bladder cancer from sniffing urine and ovarian cancer by odorants it emits.

Explosives

Some dogs in the military definitely deserve combat pay for their role in the war on terrorism. Their primary role is sniffing for explosives in hazardous areas such as Afghanistan. When they retire, the Army offers these highly trained super-sniffers to current or former handlers. Dogs not claimed by handlers are offered to the public for adoption.

Search and Recovery

The sight of dogs braving the smoldering remains of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on 9/11 was a familiar one during TV coverage of the airborne disasters. These dogs searched for the scent of survivors and played an important role in recovering human remains. They reunited families. Thanks to their disciplined sniffing and dedication to their jobs, some of these canines received the names of 9/11 victims.

Cell Phones in Prison

Cell phones are some of the hottest items smuggled into U.S. prisons. Inmates have been known to be extremely creative in coming up with places to hide them. One is inside peanut butter jars. A phone is a lifeline that lets a gang boss stay in touch with the rest of the group or an entrepreneur behind bars launch and run an illegal business. However, thanks to dogs’heightened sense of smell, it’s not hard for them to find the phones. They can detect the unique smell of a cell phone battery.

That sleepy dog on your new sofa might be hiding some valuable skills. Never underestimate the power of the canine nose.

Proper Nutrition

Proper nutrition, which often includes  pet nutritional supplements is necessary for all dogs, especially working dogs.  A variety of pet nutritional supplements are available, from Complete Vitamin Supplements to Probiotics.  Choose the one that is best for your pet.

Pet Dental Health is as Easy as 1-2-3

National Pet Dental Health Month is approaching quickly.  

Sponsored by a number of well known organizations including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, American Veterinary Dental College and Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc., pet dental health month is designed to bring awareness among pet owners of the importance of their pet’s oral health. Since dogs occupy the top spot in the list of the most popular pets, some of these websites have gone the extra mile to include some vital puppy pointers.

The American Veterinarian Dental Society recommends that pet owners follow these three basic steps:

  • STEP 1: Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam.
  • STEP 2: Begin a dental care regimen at home.
  • STEP 3: Schedule regular veterinary checkups

Beginning a dental care regimen at home is easier than ever with the explosion of great pet dental products on the market.  From toothpaste to dental toys, manufacturers have expanded the dental health product market to fit all pet’s needs. This also includes products for some of the most exotic pets, ranging from guinea pigs to wild cats. Although, if one were to know the abyssinian guinea pig life span, they’d then be rest assured that adopting one of these fluffy creatures would be a viable idea, as opposed to adopting wild cats. To celebrate National Pet Dental Health Month, GregRobert Pet Supplies is offering up to 33% discount on all oral health care products for pets, and also on other diverse products like cbd oil for cats. In addition to the discounts, customers who purchase a dental care product between the dates of January 14th, 2013 and February 28th, 2013 (cart total > $49) can take an additional $5.00 off of their order at checkout by entering the coupon code:  dental.

For a selection of dog dental treats, follow this link: http://www.GRpet.com/shop/dentaltreats.php

About the GregRobert Discount Pet Supplies<br>

Over the past decade, GregRobert has evolved as an industry leader in providing discounted pet supplies to pet owners in a secure, easy to use online environment.

Ray Joyce, owner of GregRobert Enterprises, LLC., the store’s parent company, stated “Oral disease is found in almost all types of pets, but we hear about it most commonly among cat and dogs.”  He added, “We are happy to support Pet Dental Health Month, because we feel that most pet owners are not aware of what can happen if their pet’s oral health is overlooked”.

Michelle Miller, Director of Customer Service at GregRobert, joined in to say, “We are also happy to report that the number of questions received at our customer support center regarding pet oral health has grown significantly over the past five years.”

Homeopathic Dog Remedies

Homeopathy is a natural alternative for healing.    Homeopathic dog remedies work  by eliminating the underlying imbalance in a pet’s body that is causing the symptoms. Much of modern conventional veterinary practice has become a system of suppressing the symptoms of disease, not curing its cause.

 

Conventional dog medication usually involves antibiotics and antiviral drugs . These drugs work by suppressing the dog’s illness symptoms, but doe not address the cause.  Conventional medicine may assist in alleviating the symptoms (for the time being) but does nothing to address the cause.  Also, conventional medicine weakens the immune system further, making it susceptible to more and frequent diseases.

 

Homeopathic dog remedies help the dog’s body to overcome diseases by strengthening the immune system and allowing the body to take care of the disease causing agents. Two positive effects occur.  One is that the disease is cured effectively without the side-effects of many conventional medicines. Secondly,  since the immune system is further strengthened, the susceptibility to diseases is decreased and their recurrence prevented. The dog’s overall health will benefit  with  homeopathic dog remedies.

 

Hilton Herbs Canine Releaf Gold (Joint Health) helps support and maintain a healthy musculo-skeletal system in your dog.  This product features  generous concentrations of herbal tinctures that allow maximum bio- availability and quick absorption. It can be used confidently at any time with even the most delicate digestion system.  Hilton Herbs Releaf Gold ingrediants– Devils Claw root, Meadowsweet herb, White Willow bark with Apple Cider Vinegar & Honey.

Homeopet Natural Pet Solutions  manufactures   a line of 100% natural, homeopathic pet remedies that help treat anxiety, digestive upsets, cough, and hot spots.

Special Needs of Senior Dogs

Do you have a senior dog? 

The old rule that one human year equals seven dog years, although easy, is not a very accurate way to determine your dog’s age. Large breed dogs age faster than small breeds.  In general, a dog who is 7 years or older should be considered middle to senior aged.  Your vet is the best person to help you determine the health care maintenance of your dog as he ages.

Choice is one of the greatest yet also one of the worst aspects of modern-day shopping. Unfortunately, dog food is no different. Are you debating which is the best option zignature vs acana?

There are things that MAY occur with your dog that will indicate he is aging.

  1. You may notice your dog is slower.  Slower when he runs, slower when he goes up and down stairs and even slower when getting up.  In large breeds, dogs with arthritis are very common to see. Arthritis occurs in the legs, neck and back.  You may notice your dog seems stiff, has a problem rising and may even be reluctant to go for a walk. Your vet should examine your dog. He can prescribe medication (prescription or over-the-counter) to help with the discomfort.  NEVER give your dog human medicine.  This could greatly harm or even kill your dog.
  2. Hearing loss is also common as a dog ages.  You may find the noises that used to wake him up no longer do or he may be startled if approached from behind because he doesn’t hear you.  This may be normal aging, but you should have your vet check for any medical condition that may be causing the hearing loss.
  3. Most dogs show some sign of graying around the muzzle.  This is normal.  It happens to the best of us. :)
  4. Aging dogs often show a cloudy or bluish haze in the pupil area.  This is called  lenticular sclerosis and is considered normal, with no effect on vision. However, if your dog pupils are white and opaque this is cataracts.  Vision will be affected by cataracts and your vet should examine your dog.

If your dog is showing signs of arthritis, there are many things you can do to help your pet.  First, keep your dog at a normal weight.  This is important to avoid excess pressure on joints. Second, exercise your dog.   A walk will exercise the muscles around the joints and this will help reduce stress on the joint.  Do not push your dog. Let him be the guide to when he is done.  Give you pet any medication prescribed by your vet.

If you have a pickup truck or SUV, you should consider a Pet Ramp which is perfect for helping your pet reach high places.  The Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp   extends from 39″ to 72″ and anywhere in between.  Fully extended it is perfect for  pickup trucks, SUVs, grooming tables, etc.  When the ramp is shortened it is perfect  for limited space or a lower upper surface, such as a bed, couch, or even side entry on a minivan.  The Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp is  lightweight weighing only 13 lbs and will  supports up to 400 lbs.  It has a  unique aluminum and plastic design making it   light weight and strong. Its compact size makes it easy use and store.  The dimensions are  39-72 in. long x 17 inch wide  x 4 inch rails.

A Half Ramp is also available. It only weighs 7 pounds an will support up to 2oo pounds.  The size is 39 inch  long x 17 inch wide x 5 inch rails.

Using a ramp to assist your dog will not only help your dog, but will help prevent injury to yourself since you will not need to lift your dog. A ramp is safe for both pet and owner.

Remember as you pet ages, it is your job to keep him safe and in as little pain as possible.

 

5 Quick Tips to help your Arthritic Pet

Arthritis refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint. While anti-inflammatory medicines like aspirin are popular treatments for arthritis, another approach for your pet involves protecting the cartilage in the joint and “nourishing” the joint.

Here are 5 tips that may help your arthritic dog, cat or any other pet:

  1. Keep a Slip-free Floor:
    Hardwood and tiled  floors are slippery and can be very difficult for pets with arthritis to navigate. Placing carpet or area rugs with rubber backing will help secure your pet’s footing. This can help prevent him from slipping and injuring himself.
  2. Invest in a Soft Bed and a Warm Bed
    Soft bedding can help support the bones and joints, making your pet more comfortable – and a warm, soft bed is even better.
  3. Get a Portable Ramp or Stairs
    Stairs and furniture can become difficult obstacles for your aging companion. Ramps or specially designed stairs can help pets safely climb stairs, get into or out of bed or get in and out of your vehicle.
  4. Find the Right Medication:
    Various medications are available that can help your pet feel better. Medications include drugs such as Deramaxx®, Rimadyl® or Etogesic®. These drugs are classified as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and work to suppress inflammation and pain by inhibiting synthesis of the class of compounds called prostaglandins. Joint supplements such as Cosequin®, Hip and Joint Plus or Brewers Yeast can also be beneficial. They may work by providing the body with necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function.
  5. Provide Mild Exercise:
    Modest daily exercise can help some pets. Exercise can strengthen the muscles and ligaments thus reducing the potential and risk of injury.  Just because your senior or arthritic dog may not get around as well as he or she used to, it’s important to promote regular exercise. Lack of movement can make pain and stiffness from arthritis worse. Plus, excess weight can put painful pressure on joints. So see your veterinarian, and try to incorporate several short walks in your dog’s day. You’ll both benefit.

 

How to Protect Our Pets from Household Poisons

It is commonly known that we need to be careful about certain plants, human foods and household items because they can poison our pets. However, it is good to review this from time to time and check our surroundings to be sure none of these items has become accessible to our pets.
Pictured to the right is Activated Charcoal which can be used for cats, dogs and livestock.
Remember that just because we would not find something interesting or appealing does not mean our pets would not. They are inquisitive and are attracted to eat things we can not fathom.
Please note that certain specious of pets may have specific issues not listed below. This guide is meant to be generic and not focused on only one species.
So, were are the areas we should look when evaluating our pets safety?
  • Places that allow access to human food: Outside of weight control and nutritional issues, many human foods are poisonous to pets.
  • Places that allow access to human medications. An everyday human medication can be poison. An example is acetaminophen which is found in most households.
  • Garbage: In addition to human foods found in garbage, rotting food can produce bacteria that cause illness in pets. Also, it is not uncommon for non-food items to be thrown out that our pets should not have access to.
  • Compost piles can attract animals and are not safe. The decaying organic material can create dangerous toxin and mold.
  • Some surface algae on ponds (Blue Green Algae for example) can be poisonous.
  • Areas used to store household cleaner and chemicals
  • Areas used to store outdoor cleaners and chemical (garage/sheds etc.)
  • Areas used to store garden/lawn insecticides, fertilizers and general chemicals
  • Areas were pest poisons have been applied (rat & mice for example)
  • Plants – both inside the house and in outside gardens. Many plant specious are both attractive and poisonous for pets. Certain outdoor mulch products may be an issue as well such a cocoa mulch .
  • Mushrooms growing in the yard can be poisonous
  • Note that seasonal holidays can bring new items into our homes that are poisonous. Candy at Halloween and holly/mistletoe/lilies and Christmas & Easter are examples.
How do make these areas safe for our friends?
  • A lot is just recognizing the risks above and applying common sense. A few things to consider are:
  • Don’t assume doors will be shut or access denied to areas of concern. Assume your pet, at some point, will be able to enter an area of concern. If something is accessible to your pet once he is in the area it needs to be in a sealed container. Try to locate items up high and out of access if possible.
  • Indoor plants should not be accessible. Be mindful that leaves can fall off a plant to the floor. Therefore the plant itself may be safe in it’s location but once the leaves fall off your pet may be able to ingest them.
  • Evaluate whether you really need an item. If it’s not likely to be used again than properly dispose of it. This simply eliminate the risk entirely.
  • Make sure garbage cans have locking lids or use cords to lock the top on the can to prevent access.
  • Prevent access to areas in your yard that are a concern –  plants, compost piles, ponds, etc. This may require fencing. You’ll need to evaluate your pets behavior and how dangerous an area is to assess the risk level. One pet may sample everything in site (especially young dogs) while other other pets are not that inquisitive.
  • If you have a pond try to prevent algae build up. Clean areas free of mushrooms.
What are a list plants and food items to be concerned with?
The following is a list of plants and foods of concern. It is not meant to be a full list (as it is difficult for us to think of all possibilities) but a good starting point. The sources for these items are the AAHA (www.healthyPets.com), ASPCA (www.aspca.org)
  • Alcohol (all beverages, ethanol, methanol, isopropyl)
  • Amaryllis bulb
  • Amanita mushrooms
  • Anthurium
  • Apple seeds
  • Apricot seeds
  • Avocado (leaves, seeds, stem, fruit, skin) in birds and pocket pets
  • Azalea (entire rhododendron family)
  • Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
  • Begonia
  • Bird of Paradise
  • Bittersweet Boxwood
  • Buckeye Bulbs (most kinds)
  • Buttercup (Ranunculus)
  • Bleeding heart
  • Caladium
  • Castor bean
  • Cherry pits
  • Chocolate
  • Chrysanthemum (a natural source of pyrethrins)
  • Choke cherry, unripe berries
  • Chrysanthemum (natural source of pyrethrins)
  • Clematis Crocus bulb
  • Coffee
  • Croton (Codiaeum species)
  • Cyclamen bulb Dumb cane (Dieffenbachia)
  • Chinese sacred or heavenly bamboo
  • Crocus bulb Delphinium, larkspur, monkshood
  • Eggplant
  • Elephant’s ear
  • English ivy (All Hedera species of ivy)
  • Foxglove (Digitalis)
  • Garlic
  • Grapes
  • Hyacinth bulbs
  • Hydrangea
  • Holly berries
  • Hops
  • Iris corms
  • Jack-in-the-pulpit
  • Japanese pieris
  • Jimson weed
  • Kalanchoe
  • Lantana
  • Lily-of-the-valley
  • Lily-Asiatic
  • Lily-Calla
  • Lily-Day
  • Lily-Easter
  • Lily-Star Gazer
  • Lily (bulbs of most species)
  • Lupine species
  • Marijuana (Cannabis)
  • Milkweed
  • Mistletoe berries
  • Mountain laurel Oleander
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Morning glory
  • Moldy foods
  • Mustard Seeds
  • Narcissus, daffodil (Narcissus)
  • Oak
  • Onions
  • Peach pits
  • Pencil cactus(leaves and stem)
  • Potato (leaves and stem)
  • Rosary Pea
  • Raisons
  • Rhubarb Leaves
  • Lantana
  • Scheffelera
  • Shamrock
  • Spurge (Euphorbia species)
  • Tea (caffiene)
  • Tomatoes (leaves and stem)
  • Tobacco Products Yew
  • Walnuts
  • Xylitol
  • Yeast dough

 

Interview with the dog – the silence is broke

Interview with the dog – the silence is broken.

We asked a dog to pull aside the shroud of secrecy and be interviewed. He asked that his name not be used, but for the good of all dogs, he agreed to share these ten insights with humans.

  1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be painful to me. Remember that before you buy me.
  2. Give me some time to understand what you want from me.
  3. Place your trust in me. It’s crucial to my well-being.
  4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t isolate me as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I only have you.
  5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words – I understand your voice.
  6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will not be able to forget it.
  7. Remember before you hit me that I have powerful teeth, but I choose not to use them.
  8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be wrong with me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, or I’ve been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting older and weaker.
  9. Take care of me when I get old. You’ll be old one day.
  10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say: “I can’t watch- it’s too painful. Everything is easier when you are with me.

And through it all: Remember that I love you.


7 things you need to know about your dog’s Dental Health

7 things you need to know about your dog’s oral health

  1. Dental care doesn’t just impact teeth and breath.  It has significant impact on a dog’s stomach and other organs.
  2. 80% of all dogs over the age of 3 have some form of periodontal disease that can be prevented.
  3. Small dogs have a particularly acute issue with periodontal disease.
  4. Good oral care is the primary dog owner concern over all other health and nutritional benefits.
  5. 42% of all dog owners purchased edible dental treats in the past year. Are you one of the 58% that did not?
  6. 50% of non-edible users (those that did not purchase edible dental treats in the past year) would prefer toys that provide some oral health benefit.
  7. 37% of non-edible users are bothered that chews do not freshen a dog’s breath.

Make sure you are aware of the benefits of dental care for your dog.

Celebrating Pet Dental Awareness Month – 2012

Pet Dental Health is not what it used to be.

… and we are not talking about more mutts getting cavities, or more kittens with periodontal disease, we mean that caring for your pet’s oral health is getting easier and easier.

Year’s ago, a trip to the Vet for your pups or kittens regular visit would be all the oral attention he or she would get – but now there are a huge selection of options available to keep your pet’s mouth in tip top shape.

To start, the selections in toothbrushes and toothpastes has exploded.  There are traditional finger toothbrushes that became popular close to a decade ago – but there are also traditional looking toothbrushes that work very well for some pets.

The selection of pet breath fresheners have expanded quite a bit, too.  Not many of us like dog breath, but more and more owners across the US are doing something about it, using sprays, mints and other doggie breath fresheners to make their pooches mouthes smell a tad better.

New to the market are dental floss and tartar removal products for pets.  Flosses come in traditional flossing type toys like ropes, as well as liquid floss for pets.  There are a number of different tartar removal products available these days also.   The foaming tartar removal is newest to the range of products and proving to be both effective and well liked by pet owners.

In general, dog dental treats are pretty good at freshening your furry friends breath too.  There are bones made in mint, spearmint and other popular freshening flavors.  NutriDent is a popular brand of dental treats, as well as Greenies and Smartbones.

Finally the variety of dental toys available for pets is a literal explosion.  The toys range from specialty dental ropes,  textured chew toys and dental rings.  Your dog or cat is going to love some of these.

 

Advanced Oral Care from Nylabone – Coming Soon!

80% of all dogs suffer from periodontal disease by the age of 3.
(Source: American Veternary Dental Society)

Preventative dental care reduces the risk of developing periondontal disease, which can lead to serious health issues for dogs and cats.  The new Advanced Oral Care line of Dog and Cat products can help.

Establishing a daily routine of proper dental care may extend the life of your pet.
Nylabone offers a full line of dental care products for your pet.

From edible treats, to dental kits and tartar removers, Nylabone makes dental care easier offering solutions that will:

  • Clean Teeth
  • Reduce Plaque & Tartar
  • Freshen Breath

GregRobert is thrilled to announce that they are stocking Nylabone’s Advanced Oral Care line of dental products from Nylabone.  Sign up for an alert to make sure you are first on the list when these brand-spankin-new products come in!