FIRST AID IN THE FIELD (Entry #7 - "Making a First Aid Kit")

August 26, 2009

In order to treat field injuries, you should always be prepared with a first aid kit. It doesn't have to be a large, burdensome kit. In fact, the majority of what you need to will fit into a small Ziploc bag.

The following items are what should be included in any basic first aid kit for your pet, and will come in handy if an emergency were to arise:
  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Ophthalmic antibiotic ointment
  • Vetrap cotton bandage wrap
  • Elastic wrap, such as Elastikon or Vetrap
  • Waterproof wrap, such as Wet Pruf
  • Bottled water

Remember, it is a good idea to talk with your veterinarian to learn about the specific items and medications that will be best for your outdoor excursion.

Dog Camps in the USA

August 22, 2009

This month's issue of DogFancy contains an interesting article about summer camps that are specifically designed to accomodate families and their canine companions. The camps provide a variety of dog-friendly activities including agility, lure coursing, and dock jumping. Many camps also provide activities for humans, such as dog training and creative classes like dog treat making and spinning dog fur. Being dog camps, there are, of course, many activites a dog can do along with his human counterpart. Treasure / Scaventer Hunts, as well as Water Rescue are just two examples.

This sounds like a great idea! I had no idea these camps existed. For dog and outdoor lovers, what better way to incorporate your pooch into your vacation plans?

Here is a list of some canine camps, as provided by DogFancy:

FIRST AID IN THE FIELD (Entry #6 - "Stomach Torsion / Bloat")

August 19, 2009

Stomach Torsion, also known as Bloat, occurs when the stomach becomes twisted, causing intestinal gases to build up. The condition is very painful and can be fatal if not treated right away. It is similar to having a balloon in your dog's belly that keeps expanding. It is not entirely known what causes this condition, though suspected culprits include certain types of food large amounts of food, and/or heavy exercise. Though it is uncommon for this to occur in the field, there is still a possibility so I felt it best to discuss this in our First Aid In The Field series.

Bloat is treated by inserting a stomach tube through the throat and into the stomach to release the trapped gas. More severe cases require surgery. If your dog looks bloated, acts restless, tries to vomit unsuccessfully, has excessive salivation and has labored breathing, get him to a vet immediately. If you are in a place where a veterinarian is not available, you will need to try to relieve the pressure yourself. This can be done by inserting a large bore needle into your dog's abdomen - the area right behind the ribs while your dog is in a standing position. If possible, you really need to contact a veterinarian before trying this procedure, as it is very risky. THIS PROCEDURE SHOULD ONLY BE DONE AS A LAST RESORT TO SAVE YOUR DOG'S LIFE.

If you feel your dog may be prone to Stomach Torsion, you should take precautionary measures. Feed your dog smaller meals twice-a-day, rather than one large meal. Also, refrain from letting your dog exercise after meals. This condition typically occurs when dogs are overly excited, not eating regularly, or are out of their normal circumstances.

Tax Deductible Pet Care Expenses

August 17, 2009

Congressman Thaddeus McCotter of Michigan (http://mccotter.house.gov/HoR/MI11/Home/) has introduced a new act called the HAPPY Act - The Humanity and Pets Partnered Through The Years act (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:H.R.3501).

Based on the fact that more than 60% of households have pets, and because those pets contribute to our well-being, this bill, if passed, would allow pet owners to take a tax decuctible for up to $3500 in pet care expenses. The wording on the bill states that…

qualified pet care expenses means amounts paid in connection with providing care (including veterinary care) for a qualified pet other than any expense in connection with the acquisition of the qualified pet.

The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (http://www.pijac.org/_documents/us_hr_3501_happy_act.pdf) is asking people to contact their representative and encourage them to consider the bill favorably. See their website to read more, including information on how to contact your representative.


Thanks to PetSit USA for providing the above information.

CARING FOR YOUR SENIOR (Entry #2 - "Doggie Dementia")

August 15, 2009

A dog is considered to be a senior citizen at age 7. And just like senior humans, senior dogs can start having mental "slips" as they get older. This is known as Doggie Dementia. Here are some signs to watch for:
  • Changes in sleeping-waking patterns
  • Aimless wandering, pacing or circling
  • Uncharacteristic house soiling
  • Changes in relationships with family
  • Whining or inappropriate barking
  • Getting lost in familiar surroundings
  • Unresponsiveness to known commands
  • Unusual restlessness
  • Uncharacteristic anxiety (separation anxiety, fearfulness)

Evidence of this cognitive dysfunction syndrome is made by process of elimination by your veterinarian, as it is impossible to test directly for this condition except by autopsy of the brain. Your vet may first test for blindness, urinary tract infection, or kidney disease in this elimination process.

If your vet does determine that your dog suffers from Doggie Dementia, he may prescribe Anipryl, which can help reduce the symptoms. However, there are some things you can do at home to reduce the symptoms, as well. Dogs who suffer from dementia do best when you follow a strict routine and provide regular age-appropriate exercise. Antioxidants, nutrient-rich food, and supplements & nutraceuticals can also benefit seniors. But most importantly, keep your dog involved in life.

TEACHING BASIC COMMANDS – ENTRY #8 ("WATCH ME")

August 12, 2009

If you don't have your dog's attention, it is impossible to give him commands he already knows, nor will you be able to teach him new commands. This is why it is important to teach your dog the command "Watch Me". In a location with many distractions, this command definitely comes in handy. To teach your dog this command, simply follow these easy steps:
  • When your dog is looking elsewhere, say your dog's name followed by the words "WATCH ME".

  • When he looks at you, reward him with a treat.

  • Gradually increase the time by withholding the treat for several seconds.

  • Practice this command often - every time you want to get your dog's attention.

Some dogs are a little easier to teach this command than others. For those four-legged friends that don't quite understand, try using the following method:

  • Say your dog's name while, at the same time, holding a treat in front of his nose.

  • Slowly move the treat from the front of your dog's nose to your face while saying the words "WATCH ME".

  • Hold the treat between your eyes for several seconds.

  • Reward him with the treat.

  • Once your dog is consistently following the treat, try luring him without the treat using the method previously discussed.

Once your dog understands this command, it will be easier for you to start working with him to carry out your commands in more public areas.

Back to School Blues

August 5, 2009

Your kids have had a great time this summer playing with the family pooch. It's a given that the family pooch has had just as much, if not more, fun playing with the kids. So, how will they handle the inevitable separation from each other when the kids go back to school? Dog Fancy has provided some great tips to help the two-legged and four-legged family members ease into this transition.

TIPS FOR YOUR DOG
After a fun summer spent with the kids, your puppy may whine, cry or even scratch at the door when the children go back to school. Help her accept this sudden separation without anxiety by following a few guidelines.

Puppies take comfort in routine. If the start of a new school year will change your puppy's normal schedule, start the transition two weeks before school begins. This prevents several harried mornings dealing with an upset puppy while trying to get the kids out of the house.

When their people act upset, puppies get upset. To prevent tearful goodbyes, allow children /puppy playtime before the kids get dressed. As leaving time draws near, put the puppy in her crate and offer a chew bone or a stuffable toy filled with treats. This should help keep her distracted and happy while the children walk out the door.

- Chris Cox-Evick


TIPS FOR YOUR KIDS

STAY CALM - If your kids say lots of tearful goodbyes and make a big deal about leaving, the family dog will get nervous, and it may make her more upset. Instead, your kids should give the dog a nice pat on the head and calmly tell her goodbye. Then, leave out a favorite toy for her to play with.

MAKE EXTRA TIME - Your kids are going to be busy with homework and chores, but they should take a few extra minutes to give their dog some attention after they've been home from school for a little while. A quick walk or a fun game will keep them bonded all year long.

TEACH THE DOG SOMETHING NEW - Since your kids are learning lots of stuff in school, why not let them teach the family dog a few things? Can she sit, stay, and roll over? Use free weekend time to work on some fun tricks, but don't forget tasty treats to reward the good little student.
- Katy French
* The above is a picture of Ju-Ju taken on 8/1/09

FIRST AID IN THE FIELD (Entry #5 - "Making an Impromptu Dog Muzzle")

August 1, 2009

Even the most mild-mannered canine can bite under duress or painful circumstances. If your dog is in a great deal of pain or begins to act aggressively, muzzle him before attempting first aid. However, please note that a dog that is vomiting, having breathing difficulties, or suffering from heatstroke or hypothermia should NOT be muzzled.

Any number of objects can be used as a muzzle, including a length of rope or gauze, a leash or even shoelaces.

Start by tying a loop large enough to fit around your dog's muzzle.
  1. Slip the loop around your dog's muzzle midway between its eyes and nose.
  2. Tighten the loop so that your dog's jaws are closed. Take care not to bind your dog's jaws too tightly.
  3. Cross the ends of the muzzle beneath your dog's jaw.
  4. Bring the end of the string or laces back behind your dog's ears.
  5. Tie with a double knot. This muzzle should be removable by slipping it back over the dog's ears.

If you are concerned that your dog can't breathe, tie a knot similar to a shoelace bow, which can be quickly released. A dog that shows difficulty breathing should NOT be muzzled.


* The preceding courtesy of DogWorld magazine - April, 2009