2 Dog Poison Treatment Options

Dogs are born curious and use their mouths and noses to explore and investigate almost everything that they come in contact with; therefore, since your canine is probably a curious dog, poison can be a potential killer. Of course, the best way to save your dog from the dangers associated with poison is to make sure that all types of substances that could harm your pet are put away and securely closed and out of reach. However, in the event that your dog does become poisoned, you should get your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Before you do so, however, here are some things you should do immediately.
Induce Vomiting

If your dog has not already vomited, you need to get him to vomit as soon as possible. You can induce vomiting by orally giving your dog 1 tablespoon of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide for every 20 pounds of body weight every 10 minutes.
Delay or Prevent Poison Absorption

Give the dog a mixture of one tablet of active charcoal with 10cc of water for every two pounds of body weight and then have the dog ingest at least a pint of water. Depending on the condition of the dog, you may require a stomach tube to accomplish this; therefore, a veterinarian may be required. Thirty minutes after you have given the sick dog the active charcoal and water mixture, administer one teaspoon of sodium sulfate (also known as Glaubers Salt) for every ten pounds of body weight. If the sodium sulfate is not available, you may substitute one teaspoonful of Milk of Magnesia for every five pounds of body weight.

If you don't have any of the agents that are listed in the above paragraph, then you can substitute milk, egg whites or vegetable oil to coat the stomach of the dog. Furthermore, you should also give the dog a warm water enema. Keep in mind that these procedures will not cure your dog; they simply slow the absorption of the poison into the bloodstream of the dog.
Tips for Corrosive Poisons

If your dog was poisoned by a corrosive type poison such as are found in many common household cleaning products, drain opening liquids and commercial solvents, the poison will usually burn the mouth, esophagus and stomach; therefore, you should never induce vomiting with these types of poisons. If you do, you run the risk of causing a rupture in the stomach or more serious burns in the dog's esophagus.

To help treat dogs that have been poisoned with corrosive poisons, you will need to determine if the poison is an acid or an alkali. If the poison was acidic in nature, give the dog 1 to 2 teaspoons of Milk of Magnesia or Pepto Bismol for every 5 pounds of body weight. If the poison was an alkali type of poison, then give the dog a mixture of vinegar or lemon juice and water. Use four parts water for every part of vinegar or lemon juice used. Give the dog at least 3 or 4 teaspoons, of the mixture, for every five pounds of the dog's body weight. After administering the antacid or other type of mixture rush the dog to the vet as soon as possible.

If you are unsure of how to treat your dog, rush the dog to the veterinarian without delay. If you are far away from the nearest vet, call the Pet Poison Control Hotline at 1-888-426-4435. They can instruct you on how to perform basic first aid for your dog that might save his life.

2 Natural Dog Food Recipes

Making natural dog food recipes at home provides healthy food for your pet, and it's very easy to do. Simply balance his proteins, fats and carbohydrates with the occasional mineral or vitamin supplement to add more nutritional value.

The following is a basic guideline of ingredients needed to feed your dog healthy meals. You will have to gear them according to his size and the amount of food he typically eats per day.
Stock up on Proteins, Grains and Vegetables

Cooked ground lamb, poultry and beef are ideal for mixing into natural dog food recipes. Use quality organic meats free of hormones, chemicals and antibiotics.

Pass on vegetables high in oxalic acid since they will interfere with your dog's ability to absorb calcium; stay away from spinach, rhubarb and swiss chard.
Wholesome ingredients to incorporate into your dog's diet

Quick cooking grains:

* Rolled oats
* Cornmeal
* Bulgur
* Whole-wheat
* Couscous
* Quinoa

Other grains:

* Brown rice
* Barley
* Millet
* Wheat berries.

Frozen vegetables:

* Cut green beans
* Lima beans
* Corn
* Peas

Fresh cooked vegetables:

* Finley grated carrots or zucchini
* Yams/sweet potatoes
* Baking potatoes
* Broccoli

Tip: Natural dog food recipes can sometimes lack enough calcium. Sprinkle a bit of eggshell powder into your dog's food to make sure he gets enough.
Two Natural Dog Food Recipes

Recipe for a medium to large-sized dog:

* 1 to 1 ½ cup roasted chicken pieces, cut small
* ½ cup cooked, shredded carrots
* ½ cup cooked, green beans
* 1 tablespoon plain, organic yogurt
* 1 cup cooked barley

Recipe for a small to mid-sized dog:

* ½ cup ground lamb, beef, or poultry
* ½ cup brown rice
* ¼ cup lentils or split peas
* ¼ cup cooked peas
* 1 teaspoon canola oil

20 Possible Dog Brain Tumor Symptoms

Possible symptoms of a dog brain tumor range from imperceptible to extreme. Tumors may develop in any part of the brain, with symptoms evident over time or abruptly. As the person who knows your dog the best, you are likely to be the first one to notice any physical and psychological changes signaling a brain tumor. Both malignant and non-malignant tumors pose a threat, so it is important for you to know how to recognize symptoms, no matter how subtle. The sooner treatment begins, the better chance your dog has for survival.
Physical Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor

Signs a tumor may be impairing your dog's motor skills and bodily functioning are:

* Changes in gait, including a slower walk
* Falls due to loss of balance
* Difficulty jumping and climbing
* Loss of senses, including sight and smell
* Hypersensitivity to touch
* Difficulty moving the eyes
* Reduced appetite
* Difficulty swallowing
* Excessive thirst
* Weakness on one side of the body
* Facial paralysis
* Head tilting
* Pressing the face against a hard surface
* Vomiting
* Tremors
* Seizures

Psychological Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor

Signs a tumor may be compromising your dog's mental functioning and mental health are:

* Personality reversal-for example, docile dogs becoming aggressive and aggressive dogs becoming docile
* Compulsions, including eating and barking
* Depression
* Disorientation, including an inability to recognize your voice or find the way home

Your dog may also communicate the extreme discomfort and distress caused by a brain tumor by whimpering, whining and whelping. The presence of one or more symptoms of a dog brain tumor necessitates prompt evaluation by a vet. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Such options can be highly effective, but extremely expensive.

10 Symptoms of Canine Heart Murmur

A canine heart murmur is caused when the blood flows abnormally in a canine heart. The abnormal change in the dog heart can cause the right side of the heart to not communicate well with the left side, sometimes affecting a dog's health.
Symptoms of a Heart Murmur in Dogs

* The dog's heartbeat seems irregular
* A hacking cough that does not seem to go away.
* Breathing that seems labored (excessive panting) even while the dog is resting
* The canine tires easily
* Lack of energy
* Collapsing or fainting
* The gums or tongue have a bluish color
* A racing pulse
* Severe water retention
* Lack of appetite

All of these symptoms may indicate health risks that are serious, but not necessarily a murmur. Only a veterinary doctor can diagnose a heart murmur in dogs.
Causes of Heart Murmurs in Dogs

Dogs can develop heart murmurs for a number of reasons. Some dogs may develop heart disease as they age, causing them to have an irregular heartbeat. Blood leakage from the heart valves to the atrium or high blood pressure could also be a cause. Some puppies are born with a birth defect that causes murmurs or they may be more genetically prone to this condition. Dogs that have anemia or a disease that affects the heart or blood vessels could make a canine more prone to developing a heart murmur.

Mitral valve stenosis, a condition in which the heart's valves leak, can result in a heart murmur in dogs. A condition where holes are present in the chamber that pumps blood, ventricular septal, can cause the blood to flood too rapidly in puppies, resulting in an irregular heartbeat. Pulmonary or aortic stenosis, the narrowing of the pulmonary or aortic artery, can cause an irregular blood flow, resulting in murmurs in dogs.
Diagnosing Heart Murmurs

When there is suspicion of a heart murmur in a canine, doctors will perform several different tests to confirm their diagnosis.

* Listening to the heart with a stethoscope
* Chest x-rays
* Heart ultrasound: to see all almost all of the functions of a dog's heart in real time and see if the heart has any irregularities
* Blood and urine tests: to check for any abnormalities in liver and kidney function
* Electrocardiogram: an assessment of the dog's heart activity over a period of time

Treating Heart Murmurs in Dogs

Heart murmurs in dogs can be nothing to worry about or a condition that can progressively get worse. If a puppy is found to have a murmur, it may not be treated until health problems are present. Heart murmurs cannot be cured, but they can be treated surgically, with medication, or dietary changes.

If you suspect your dog may have a problem with his or her heart, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Share your concerns and questions with your vet and tell them about any lifestyle and activity changes.

11 Tips for Living with Blind Dogs

Living with blind dogs can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Try these tips for bringing a blind dog home, helping him find his way around, socializing the dog and going outdoors.

1. Try not to move any furniture around once your dog has grown accustomed to the layout of your home and keep floors clear.
2. You may want to cushion sharp corners on furniture and cabinets.
3. Use textured rugs to help your dog recognize certain areas of the house.
4. Scents are also a great way to mark 'zones' in your home, like the bottom or top of stairs or door openings. Use the same scent for all safe areas and something different for dangerous spots.
5. Avoid picking up a blind dog to bring him to his food or a toy of his; this can be confusing and he needs to learn on his own.
6. Put bells on other pets to alert your blind dog of their presence.
7. Talk to your blind dog often to comfort and guide him with positive encouragement. Set up your own voice commands and be consistent with them.
8. Be careful not to startle the dog when you approach him and also teach guests and small children to be cautious. A dog might snap at someone who startles him from behind or while he sleeps. New
9. people should allow the dog to smell their hand before petting him.
10. Use a harness when outside with your dog, especially when going to new areas.
11. Consider a bandana or marker to put on your dog that says 'I'm blind' to alert others of your dog's condition.

10 Tips for Training Adult Dogs

The old cliché says you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but with patience, confidence and repetition, training adult dogs can be a fun and rewarding task for the owners and the animals. At animal shelters, senior dogs are often euthanized because they aren't wanted but, with training, all dogs of any age or breed can be a great addition to the home.
10 Tips for Training Adult Dogs

1. Praise, praise, praise - Use treats, verbal praise and petting to praise a dog that exhibits correct behavior. When a dog has followed a command and is calm and relaxed, offer some sort of treat or positive encouragement to reinforce good habits with rewards. Only offer rewards immediately after good behavior or the dog will not understand why he is getting a treat.
2. Never hit a dog - Using physical violence is never the answer to a dog that is misbehaving. Not only is this painful to the animal but can trigger aggression and make bad habits even worse.
3. Start with basic commands like you would with a puppy such as sit, stay, come and down.
4. Be consistent - Continue obedience training each day and stay with your chosen method rather than switching around so you don't confuse the dog. Also, be consistent with the commands you use but never repeat command words. If you're dog doesn't listen to 'sit' the first time, don't repeat the word. Instead, try again later until he learns the command and offer a treat when he performs correctly.
5. Stay calm - A calm but firm owner will reduce anxiety and fear in many dogs and also communicate clearly and efficiently.
6. Keep family members committed: Dedication is essential when it comes to teaching an older dog obedience training. If you are committed to the right behavior but your family members are letting the dog run wild, all of your time and energy may be wasted. Guests should also be aware of any rules for your dog, like a ban on table scraps or jumping on couches, to prevent any bad habits from continuing.
7. Make time - Dedicate at least 15 minutes every day to dog training. An adult dog has a longer attention span than a new puppy and will enjoy dog training periods for lengthier stretches of time.
8. Stay active - Exercise is a great outlet for an energetic dog and may prevent him from becoming distracted if he's had a chance to run around and play before training.
9. Walking - This is one great way to keep a dog active and stimulated. Stay in control by using a short leash and starting out with small walks until the dog is behaved and comfortable on the leash.
10. Classes - Consider signing up for a dog obedience class. These are usually offered for all types and ages of dogs and are a great way to socialize your dog while also training him.

10 Top Causes of Liver Disease in Dogs

Liver disease in dogs is one of the leading causes of death in dogs each year. The liver is very important for ensuring a long, healthy life. It purifies the blood, eliminates waste and aids healthy digestion. The liver is susceptible to a variety of diseases and conditions. Whenever the liver is compromised, the life of your dog is in serious jeopardy.
Causes of Liver Disease

Here are ten causes of liver disease:

1. Poor diet
2. Bacterial infection
3. Viral infection
4. Trauma, such as a blow when hit by a car or through a case of heatstroke
5. Some prescription drugs, including acetaminophen or medications used to treat other medical conditions
6. Toxic substances in the environment, such as pesticides
7. Over vaccinating
8. A birth defect or abnormality of the liver
9. Genetic predisposition
10. Ingesting poison

Symptoms of Liver Disease

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from liver disease, here are some symptoms to look out for:

* Gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Depression and lethargy
* A swollen or distended belly
* Pale or gray feces
* Discolored urine
* Jaundice
* Increased urination and water consumption
* Severe neurological problems such as seizures or aimless pacing
* Viral or bacterial infection

Prevention is the best defense against liver disease and being aware of contributing factors can help you protect your dog.

10 Types of Injuries That Cause Dog Limping

A dog limping does not necessarily mean he is getting up in years. It could be caused by a host of medical problems, ranging from trauma to subtle chronic conditions. A slight limp can even be a symptom of life threatening conditions, like malignant tumors. Here is a list of some of the likely causes of dog limping:
Soft Tissue Injury

This is the most common cause of limping for dogs. They include sprains, muscle pulls, and similar minor traumas. They are not serious, and can be successfully treated with a few days rest, and a mild analgesic.
Arthritis

If your dog has increasing difficulty with getting up after lying or sitting for some time, or trouble with climbing stairs or getting into and out of its bed, check with your vet about canine arthritis. If you have a large dog, hip dysplasia might be present.
Footpad or Paw Injuries

Look for cuts on the footpad. Also look for splinters or other foreign objects (thorns, sharp stones) imbedded in the footpad, or between the toes. Check for broken claws. Be alert for swelling or other possible signs of infection in this entire area. Extreme weather conditions can also cause painful cracks in the tissue of the footpad.
Closed Fracture

These injuries are bone fractures where the skin is not broken. They may not be immediately evident because the leg may not look misshapen or twisted.
Compound Fractures

This is a very serious type of bone fracture where the broken bone punctures the skin. This exposure often causes dangerous infections of the bone.
Epiphyseal and Greenstick Fractures

Epiphyseal fractures usually occur at the end of the long bones (femur, humerus) in puppies and young dogs. These areas are called growth plates, and because they are not matured, the bone there will soften and fracture.

A greenstick fracture is a crack in the bone. The bone is otherwise intact.
Growing Pains

A more scientific medical term for this complaint is Panosteitis. It is, of course, found in puppies and young dogs and usually does not need treatment.
Ligament Injuries

Ligaments are the bands of muscle tissue that knit bones together at the joints. When they're injured, stability of the joint is compromised or destroyed, and your dog's limping will get progressively worse over time.
Tumors

Limping is a symptom associated with tumors in or on the bones, or in the brain or central nervous system. If you see suspicious symptoms accompanying your dog's limping, such as dizziness or disorientation, or if you find any odd lumps or masses, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Tumors are often life threatening, and time is of the essence.
Kneecap Dislocation

Your dog's knee can adopt a sudden and dangerous side-to-side motion for various reasons, (trauma, infection) and the knee will slip out of alignment. The knee can also pop back into alignment just as quickly. Be watchful for recurring problems with this if you have a small dog.

11 Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease

Canine liver disease is one of the top five causes of possible death for a dog. The liver removes waste and toxins from the blood as well as produces bile to aid digestion. When the liver is compromised, the health of your dog is in jeopardy. Dogs with liver disease may show any number of signs and symptoms. A few symptoms, such as jaundice, are specific to liver disease and other liver problems.
11 Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease

1.
Recurrent gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea and constipation
2.
Loss of appetite and chronic weight loss
3.
Depression and lethargy
4.
A swollen belly due to fluid accumulation
5.
Pale, gray or white feces
6.
Orange colored urine
7.
Jaundice, this is when the skin or visible tissue takes on a yellow hue
8.
Pain associated with the abdomen
9.
Increased urination and water consumption
10.
Severe neurological problems such as seizures, aimless pacing and behavioral changes
11.
Bleeding problems may occur, but are rare

14 Dogs Good for Allergies: A Guide to Hypoallergenic Breeds

If your family wants a dog but allergies are a concern, there are dogs good for allergies. Hypoallergenic dogs come in a sizes and activity levels suitable for any family. Low-allergy dogs do not shed—they will need to be clipped regularly—but they are not dander-free. Even hairless dogs shed skin occasionally, so proper grooming and hygiene will still need to be addressed.

Consult your allergist before bringing a new dog home. She will be able to make recommendations to help keep your reaction to dog-related allergens to a minimum.

14 Dogs Good For Allergies

1. Chinese Crested
2. Maltese
3. Shih Tzu
4. Poodle
5. Schnauzer
6. Yorkshire Terrier
7. Havanese
8. Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier
9. Bedlington Terrier
10. Kerry Blue Terrier
11. Portuguese Water Dog
12. Puli
13. Irish Water Spaniel
14. "Doodle" Dogs


Recently, “doodle” dogs have become popular. These are hybrid crosses of certain popular breeds mixed with the hypoallergenic poodle. Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are among the best known. These dogs should be obtained from reputable breeders that breed for the specific low-allergy trait.

15 Prescription Medications for Controlling Dog Seizures

Dog seizure or epilepsy is a neurological disorder. There is an involuntary contraction of muscles that causes trembling, shaking and convulsions. Before you know the various prescription drugs available to treat seizures you must understand the types of dog seizures.
Types or Phases of Dog Seizures

* Pre-Ictal
* Ictal
* Petit Mal
* Grand Mal
* Status Epilepticus
* Post Ictal
* Pre-Ictal

In this phase there's a noticeable change in dog behavior. There will be involuntary head shaking, and salivation. The dog may also start whining.
Ictal

This is the actual seizure. It may last for a few seconds to five minutes. The dog may appear paralyzed. There could be spontaneous urination as he will lose bowel control. He will start foaming and there will be rapid jaw movement. The Ictal phase has three stages of severity, Petit Mal, Grand Mal and Status Epilepticus. The Status Epilepticus is highly dangerous as the dog will have many bouts of convulsions with little or no rest. Medical intervention is absolutely necessary. Seizures can kill your dog as they cut the supply of oxygen to the heart and the brain.
Post Ictal

During this phase the dog will regain consciousness but may show signs of blindness, fright and deafness.

Epilepsy or dog seizure cannot be cured but if the right medication is administered the seizures can be successfully controlled.
15 Common Dog Seizure Medications

* Phenobarbital
* Valium
* Potassium Bromide
* Chlorazepate dipotassium
* Felbamate
* Levetiracetam
* Zonisamide
* Propofol
* Diazepam
* Topiramate
* Primidone
* Neurosyn Tablets
* K-Bro Vet Chewable Tablets
* K-Bro Vet Oral Solution
* PrimiTabs

Very often after conducting tests on your dog the vet will diagnose Idiopathic epilepsy or epilepsy with no known cause of seizure. You must make sure to record the number of seizures your dog has had after the first one. Make note of the duration of the seizures as well as the physical symptoms. Medication is given daily and the potency of the drug may be gradually reduced after several years.

The medication that the vet will prescribe is based on the severity of the epilepsy and your dog's medical history.
Possible Side Effects

* Sedation
* Liver disease
* Bitter taste
* Gastric irritation
* Nausea
* Tremor

Epileptic seizures commence in a dog's brain when abnormal nerve tissues send signals to nerve impulses. Head injury or tumors may also cause canine seizures. If the seizure has reached a life threatening stage the vet might recommend surgical intervention. However since the risk of dog brain surgery is high, pet owners may choose to treat their dogs exclusively with medication. Some owners may prefer canine acupuncture or holistic treatments to control seizures. Although it's scary to watch your pet go through a seizure don't attempt to lift your dog or put a spoon in his mouth. Maintain contact with your dog and speak to him in a calm tone.

If your dog suffers from epilepsy, you will have to frequently correspond with your vet to determine the effects of medication and to report any new seizures.

10 Essential Dog Cleaning Supplies

With the right dog cleaning equipment, you can keep your house and car clean and fresh smelling, without limiting your dog to one room and no family trips. Even well trained dogs may occasionally have an accident or throw up on the rug. A good stain remover and odor remover are essential. Many dogs shed, so you'll also want a good pet hair remover for your furniture and clothes. An allergen remover and the proper grooming supplies will help you stay healthy while maintaining your dog's skin and fur.
Pet Stain Remover

You can find a stain remover that will make doghouse cleaning easy and effective. The best type includes enzymes that actually interact biologically with the stain and lift it off the carpet or furniture. Make sure to test the product on a hidden area of the carpet or furniture before applying it on a more visible area. You may need a separate product for carpets and furniture.
Pet Odor Remover

There are several ways to cope with pet odors, such as those associated with accidents or just the general aroma a dog can leave. Keeping your dog clean and groomed helps, but sometimes you'll want a good odor remover for accidents and the air. Many of the products that really remove stains will also remove the odor associated with the stain. There are sprays that will actually remove the odors from the air, versus just covering them up with perfume. Make sure to use a product that is safe and non-allergenic for people and pets.
Pet Hair Remover

There are simple and cheap ways to remove pet hair from clothes and furniture. You can invest in a commercial pet hair remover, which is usually a roller with a sticky surface that you can use on many surfaces and clothes. Wrapping wide tape around your hand, sticky side up, often does a good job. You can also take a slightly damp mop and mop your carpet. The small amount of water will lift the hair right off the carpet. This can also work with a slightly damp sponge on furniture, provided it's not leather. Remember to test on a hidden area first.
Grooming Supplies

Investing in several good grooming supplies will help your dog's skin and fur stay healthy, and it will reduce the amount of allergens your dog produces. The following items make dog cleaning simple and effective:

* A good hard wire dog brush
* Oatmeal shampoo
* Conditioner
* A grooming table and harness

Another important dog grooming tool is a washing glove or brush that really will remove the dead hair and skin. An allergen remover, usually in the form of a spray, will keep your house and car clean and smelling fresh.

10 Dog Insurance Comparison Points for New Owners

Owners can save money and get the best coverage for their dog with an informed comparison between insurance policies. Use these suggestions when comparing and contrasting plans.

1. Level of coverage: Find out what treatments are included in your plan, from basic checkups to cancer treatment.
2. Veterinarians: Some plans allow you to choose any veterinarian while others offer limited choices.
3. Deductibles: Compare the price of deductibles between plans.
4. Add-ons: Treatments and services like dental care, travel insurance and coverage of chronic conditions can be added on to plans.
5. Exclusions: Behavior or psychological problems, hip dysplasia and special conditions can exclude or limit coverage.
6. Genetic or pre-existing conditions: Find out how the plan defines pre-existing conditions and if they raise the price or exclude your dog from plans. There are insurance companies that concentrate on special conditions to give your animal personal coverage for his specific health problems.
7. Claims process: Look into deadlines, the filing process, payment details and claim limitations.
8. Payment options: What are the payment schedules, monthly rates, co-pays and reimbursement time for claims?
9. Multiple pet discounts: Some companies have special plans when you insure multiple animals; however, some companies will limit the number of 'high risk' breeds they will insure in a house, or ban any of these breeds from their insurance plans all together.
10. Increasing premiums: Most insurance companies increase premiums as a dog gets older, and sometimes if many claims are filed.

10 Dog Insurance Comparison Points for New Owners

Owners can save money and get the best coverage for their dog with an informed comparison between insurance policies. Use these suggestions when comparing and contrasting plans.

1. Level of coverage: Find out what treatments are included in your plan, from basic checkups to cancer treatment.
2. Veterinarians: Some plans allow you to choose any veterinarian while others offer limited choices.
3. Deductibles: Compare the price of deductibles between plans.
4. Add-ons: Treatments and services like dental care, travel insurance and coverage of chronic conditions can be added on to plans.
5. Exclusions: Behavior or psychological problems, hip dysplasia and special conditions can exclude or limit coverage.
6. Genetic or pre-existing conditions: Find out how the plan defines pre-existing conditions and if they raise the price or exclude your dog from plans. There are insurance companies that concentrate on special conditions to give your animal personal coverage for his specific health problems.
7. Claims process: Look into deadlines, the filing process, payment details and claim limitations.
8. Payment options: What are the payment schedules, monthly rates, co-pays and reimbursement time for claims?
9. Multiple pet discounts: Some companies have special plans when you insure multiple animals; however, some companies will limit the number of 'high risk' breeds they will insure in a house, or ban any of these breeds from their insurance plans all together.
10. Increasing premiums: Most insurance companies increase premiums as a dog gets older, and sometimes if many claims are filed.

10 Dog Illness Symptoms that Require Emergency Care

Dog illness symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Many symptoms may mean illness but not an acute emergency. But other symptoms such as loss of consciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, high or low temperature, as well as several others can be an indication that your dog needs emergency veterinary assistance. If you notice any of the following signs or think you may be observing them, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
1. Loss of Consciousness

A change in consciousness can manifest as sudden collapse, tremors, staggering, sudden withdrawal or lack of responsiveness, coma, convulsions or sudden blindness. A dog may also exhibit a chronic tilting of the head or biting at imaginary objects.
2. Seizures

You can identify a seizure in several ways. The dog's entire body will likely shake or tremor for several seconds. Then the dog will be unresponsive for a few seconds or up to a minute. You may see the whites of the eyes.
3. Difficulty Breathing

If a dog is struggling to breathe, you may notice him gasping for breath or breathing in a labored manner. You might also notice noisy respiration, and the dog's tongue may become blue. It may also appear swollen.
4. Change in Temperature

A dog's temperature should be around 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If his temperature goes below 99 or above 104 degrees, something is seriously wrong. You need to take the dog's temperature if you see him panting, if he feels very cold or if he seems really lethargic.
5. Bleeding

If you cannot stop blood from any area of the dog's body, apply pressure with a clean piece of fabric and go to the emergency vet. Uncontrolled bleeding can cause loss of consciousness and death.
6. Signs of Acute Pain

If a dog won't stop whining or yelping, he's trying to tell you something is wrong. If the usual problem solvers don't work, seek veterinary attention.
7. Extreme Energy Changes

If a dog becomes extremely lethargic all of a sudden, it's a sign of a possible serious and systemic problem. Extreme lethargy manifests as a dog who won't come out of his crate or won't move a muscle when called or enticed with food or a favorite toy.
8. Symptoms that Do Not Alleviate

The following symptoms should not last for more than 2 to 3 days. These include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, poor appetite, constipation, wheezing, or dully, dry and flaky hair and skin. Lameness, weakness, and major changes in urination are also symptoms that should change in a few days.
9. Abdominal Bloating

A bloated or abnormally distended abdomen is an acutely serious issue. If your dog seems to be having abdominal pain (i.e. winces or whimpers when touched there), but he isn't vomiting, this is a sign of potential poisoning or an acute kidney problem.
10. Other Times to Call the Vet Immediately

After any accident, fall, or dog fight, a vet should check for trauma, injury, or shock. If you suspect that a dog has ingested poison or any sharp object, don't wait for symptoms to appear. It's better to be safe than sorry.

10 Causes of Feline Incontinence

Feline incontinence often links to an underlying disease or condition. With incontinence, pets dribble small amount of cat urine all over the house. Incontinence also includes cat diarrhea. Learn the ten common causes why cats deal with incontinence issues.
Bladder Stones

Bladder stones occur when minerals combine forming large crystals. Bladder stones reach the size of peas and irritate the lining of the bladder. If bladder stones reach the urethra, it becomes hard for a cat to urinate. You'll see him straining in the litter box with little to no urine coming out or cat urine will have a pinkish tint from blood.
Bladder Cancer

While rare, cats exposed to flea dips and insecticides in the yard have a higher risk of bladder cancer. Tumors build up on the inner lining of the bladder eventually blocking the urethra. Symptoms include straining while urinating or defecating, feline incontinence and lethargy.
Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes rates are skyrocketing. A diabetic cat drinks excessive amounts of water and urinates often. Often, the cat fails to make it to the litter box on time. Controlling the diabetes eliminates this form of feline incontinence.
Feline Diarrhea

People associate incontinence with urine, but poor bowel control is another form of feline incontinence. In cases of severe cat diarrhea, common problems include spinal cord injuries, particularly including damage to the tail. Other issues include poor diet, digestive problems and bacteria or viruses in the intestines.
Feline Leukemia

The feline leukemia virus is preventable. Many spayed and neutered cats affected by feline leukemia have problems with bladder control. They frequently dribble urine when they are sleeping or resting. The problem does affect more male cats than females, however. Some veterinarians find that a low dose of chemotherapy helps eliminate if the feline incontinence is excessive.

Kidney Stones

Like bladder stones, kidney stones occur when crystals bind in the kidneys causing blockages and irritation. A cat with kidney stones will have a tender abdomen and often has problems urinating. Blood is often visible in the cat urine.
Scarred Bladder

If a urinary tract infection spreads to the bladder, scarring will occur. The scarring essential takes up room causing the bladder to hold less urine. He will need to urinate more frequently. More accidents occur as a result.
Senility

With old age, some cats simply lose sense of when they need to go to the bathroom. They may wait too long and dribble on the way to the litter box, or they may forget where their litter box is located. You may find it easier to keep one litter box on each level of your house to avoid these feline incontinence accidents.
Urinary Tract Infections

Feline urinary tract infections remain a leading cause of feline incontinence. When the urinary tract becomes infected, the cat finds it impossible to go to the bathroom. He will strain, but little to no urine comes out. Antibiotics are necessary for UTIs. They can quickly spread to the bladder and kidneys if left untreated.
Weakened Urinary Muscle Tone

Cats that are carrying litters of kittens or elderly cats lose control of their urinary system muscles. Leaking and dribbling of cat urine are common problems. In addition, when the bladder is full, it pushes against the bowels causing accidents with defecation.

Dog health

The dog health is a well studied area in veterinary medicine.

Infectious diseases that affect dogs are important not only from a veterinary standpoint, but also because of the risk to public health; an example of this is rabies. Genetic disorders also affect dogs, often due to selective breeding to produce individual dog breeds. Due to the popularity of both commercial and homemade dog foods, nutrition is also a heavily-studied subject.