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July 1 2015

Food, Not Fingers

melissa Dogs, Pets, Safety, Training dog training, dog treats, how to teach a dog, how to train a dog, training dogs

How to train your dog to take treats gently.

From wolf hybrids to bully breeds, I’ve always had big dogs. Since I only use reward-based training, it’s very important that the first thing they learn to do is take treats gently from me.

Dog Treats — Training a dog to take a treat gently is a matter of practice. Your dog won’t get it right all the time and there are days that your timing will be off as well. Photo credit: Carosh/iStock

Dogs who are highly treat-motivated can be difficult to reward without losing a finger. Large dogs, and puppies especially, often don’t know their own strength. That’s why it’s critical that the very first thing my pets learn is how to take a treat gently.

“Gentle” is a very important word in my training. Some people use “easy” or “calm,” but “gentle” seems to combine it all into one term for me. What’s more, once they learn to associate that command with treats, it becomes all that much easier to train them to do other tricks.

If you have a dog who can take or leave a treat, this is the way I train dogs to take a treat gently.

Make sure your dog has been fed before attempting to teach “Gentle.” A hungry dog rarely has the patience for learning (just like kids) if his stomach is grumbling. So feed your dog and then wait 30 minutes before trying to work with him.
Hold a treat in the palm of your hand (much like you would give a treat to a horse). The goal is to be able to cut off access to the treat quickly if he tries to snap it. Close your fist around the treat and let him sniff. The goal is to let him know you have a treat without officially offering it. Say “Gentle” as you do so.
If your dog is highly food-motivated, he might lick or even “mouth” your hand (if he attempts to bite or snap at you, see below). This is a no-no. Simply remove your hand until he calms down. Once he has accepted that you won’t be offering the treat, you can show it to him again.

For Highly Treat-Motivated Dogs

Giving Dog Treats — Whether you only use reward-based training or not, teaching your dog to take treats gently is important, especially if he encounters children who will try to feed him. Photo credit: Click_and_Photo/iStock

Occasionally, you’ll find that your dog doesn’t respond to the treat in hand trick or he might be more reactive than most dogs. If this is the case, you’ll want to take a different approach.

Put a bit of peanut butter on a wooden spoon, and then place the treat in the peanut butter.
Offer the treat to your dog and say “Gentle.”
As soon as you see a sign of your dog becoming too aggressive in taking the treat, pull the spoon away (the peanut butter acts as a stabilizer so the treat doesn’t fall off when you offer it to him).
Repeat this activity using the gentle command until she has calmed enough to take it gently.

Training a dog to take a treat gently is a matter of practice. Your dog won’t get it right all the time and there are days that your timing will be off as well. The goal is for your dog to realize that he will not receive a treat unless he takes it gently.

With practice, your dog will do any manner of trick prior to receiving a treat. However, this small act is one of the most important things you can teach your pet.

About the Author: Stacy Mantle is the founder of PetsWeekly.com and the bestselling author of “Shepherd’s Moon.” Learn more great tips for living with animals by visiting PetsWeekly.com or get to know a little more about the author at www.StacyMantle.com

July 1 2015

Terrific Products for Dogs & Cats

melissa Pets, Products, Resources cat food, cat toys, dog toys, dog treats, pet products, puppy food

Weruva’s Cats in the Kitchen line of canned cat food was inspired by cat owners’ tendency to feed their cats in the kitchen. The carnivore-pleasing, grain-free formulas features all-natural, high-quality ingredients, such as boneless, skinless white chicken breast meat, tuna, mackerel and salmon loins, lean cuts of beef, lamb and turkey, as well as fish oil and the occasional pumpkin to promote healthy digestion. The 10 varieties (all cleverly named) come in 3-oz. cans. For the curious, the name WeRuVa is derived from the founders’ cats: Webster, Rudi and Vanessa. www.weruva.com/cats-in-the-kitchen-cans

The Original PoopBags’ Orange Scented PoopBags epi Rolls are eco- and wallet- friendly. The bags are made with 30 percent post-consumer material that is blended with Totally Degradable Plastic Additives (TDPA^®). The mildly orange-scented bags measure 9 x 13 in. and fit dispensers that attach to leash handles. They come 15 pages to a paper-cored roll and are offered in eight-roll packs. www.poopbags.com/shop/scented-poop-bags/

Scratch-n-Spin

To add a little fun between cat scratching sessions, SmartyKat’s new Scratch ‘N Spin™ post features two replaceable wands with dangling feathers and ribbons that attract cats to play and scratch. With just a flick of a paw, the hanging ribbons and boa feathers twirl around the post. The easy to assemble scratcher is wrapped with high-quality, durable looped carpet on a stable, tip-resistant base. www.smartykat.com www.worldwise.com

Stewart^® by MiracleCorp presents its Raw Naturals™ Fresh to Home™ Freeze Dried Puppy Formula, a nutrient-rich raw diet for young dogs. Made in the USA with human-grade, wholesome ingredients, the formula is enriched with DHA for brain development, calcium for strong bone development and antioxidants to help build a strong immune system. A wholesome option for all breeds, the Freeze Dried Puppy Formula boasts chicken as the No. 1 ingredient and is available in a 12-oz bag or 3.75-oz trial size. www.stewartpet.com

New from PetSafe, the Cheese toy offers cats an exciting game of peek-a-boo with two mice that pop out of each side of the Swiss cheese block. For surprise play sessions, you can use the Play While You Are Away mode to keep your cats engaged throughout the day. And during single play sessions, the timer automatically turns the toy off after 10 to 15 minutes. Requires 3 AA batteries. store.petsafe.net/toy-cheese

JW® Slide ‘N Snacks™ Toys are made of durable rubber and are designed to easily slide treats on and off. This helps to prevent a dog from destroying the toy as the focus is shifted to the treat. The four shapes—Ball, Bone, Jack and Maze—come in one side and in red, blue and green colors. Of course, the toys aren’t complete without JW Slide ‘N Snacks Treats. Made in the USA, the 100 percent all-natural, low-calorie treats contain rice, flour and other natural ingredients and flavoring. They are come in chicken or bacon flavors in a 4.23-oz. bag. Both are available from Amazon.com, Petco and other pet supply shops.

Pioneer Pet presents a fountain that is designed to encourage cats to drink more water and complement a kitchen’s décor. The Raindrop Ceramic Drinking Fountain is made from durable ceramic material; is easy to dissemble for cleaning and maintenance; and comes with a replaceable charcoal filter. Dishwasher-safe, the Raindrop is available in either black or white and can hold up to 60-oz. of circulating water. www.pioneerpet.com

BioSilk® For Dogs line of salon-quality grooming products includes shampoos, conditioners, sprays, leave-in treatment and cleansing wipes. Featuring some of the same classic ingredients and innovative technology as the original BioSilk Silk Therapy line for humans, the grooming products are formulated with silk and enriching vitamins that work together to help restore the moisture balance to the coat for a silky smooth finish. All formulas are pH-balanced and safe for use with topical flea and tick treatments. www.fetch4pets.com

June 30 2015

Service Dog Training

melissa Dogs, Training dog breeds for service dogs, dog obedience, dog training, how to become a dog trainer, how to become a service dog trainer, service dog certification, service dog information, service dog trainer, service dog training, service dogs, training dogs, types of service dogs, what do service dogs do, where are service dogs allowed

Service Dog Training Facts

What is a service dog?

Service dogs are dogs that have been specifically trained to help disabled people in all aspects of their lives. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are considered medical equipment. From completing daily tasks to detecting seizures before they happen, service dogs prove they truly are man’s best friend. To become a service dog, the dog must undergo dog training.

What are the different types of service dogs?

There are many different types of service dogs, but the more popular ones include:

Guide Dogs
Hearing Dogs
Seizure Alert Dogs
Diabetic Alert Dogs
Mobility Dogs
PTSD Dogs

Are dogs that provide emotional support considered service dogs?

No. Dogs that accompany their owners for emotional support are not considered service dogs. As a result, they’re not protected under the ADA.

What do service dogs do?

Service dogs are trained to provide a service to their owners. They perform work specific to the person’s disability. For instance, a guide dog assists a blind person walk whereas a diabetic dog reminds the person with diabetes his blood sugar is low. Interestingly, dogs that only provide comfort or emotional support are not considered service dogs under the ADA.

Where are service dogs allowed?

Service dogs are allowed to accompany people with disabilities in all public areas, including restaurants, hotels and airports. However, there are a few instances where service dogs may not be allowed, such as in an operating room or burn unit.

Which dog breeds can work as service dogs?

All dog breeds are allowed to become service dogs, but the breeds that traditionally work as service dogs are German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors and Standard Poodles.

Can you train your own dog to be a service dog?

You may train your dog to be a service dog, but you may find it extremely difficult if you’re not already a professional dog trainer. Service dogs must undergo basic dog obedience training, which includes learning to obey verbal cues and not engaging in inappropriate behavior. Dogs should obey commands on the first command 90 percent of the time.

How can I become a certified service dog trainer?

The first step to becoming a certified service dog trainer is obtaining your dog training certification. A dog trainer certification proves you’ve studied dog behavior and learned various dog training techniques. You can receive your certification by enrolling in a dog trainer certification program. There are many schools available online, some of which even offer hands-on training as part of their program.

Once you become a certified dog trainer and gain volunteer experience, you can either train your dog to become a service dog or attend a service dog trainer school. If you choose the academic route, select a school that has experience placing service dogs with disabled people. Many assistance dog apprentice trainer programs take two to three years, according to Assistance Dogs International.

How long does it take to train a service dog?

Dogs training to become service dogs are trained for one to two hours every day for about six months. However, this amount of time can change depending on the dog’s drive and breed as well as the organization training service dogs. During this period, dogs are specifically trained to complete certain tasks and learn obedience.

Update: The article has been changed to reflect service dog requirements.

June 26 2015

Protecting Your Dog From the Heat

melissa Grooming dog safety, pet safety, protect dog from heat, protecting your dog from the heat

How to Protect Your Dog From the Heat

Every summer, dog owners contemplate giving their pets a short haircut so they don’t suffer in the heat. Surprisingly, dogs with long coats can still be comfortable in the heat if they’re groomed well. Before you take your dog to your nearest dog grooming salon, learn the purpose of a dog’s coat and your grooming options.

Dog Coats Serve as Insulation

In most cases, a dog’s coat is used to regulate his body temperature by serving as insulation against the cold and heat. During hot temperatures, dogs begin shedding their undercoats. You can help with the shedding process by brushing your dog’s undercoat. The outer coat protects your dog’s skin from harsh sun rays.

Shaving Your Dog Isn’t Necessary

Shaving is often the solution most dog owners turn to when their dog’s coat is matted. Matted coats trap heat and moisture, causing redness, irritation and odors. Rather than going straight for a shave, ask your dog groomer if she can brush the mats out of your dog’s coat. If the coat is severely matted, then it may be beneficial to shave your dog.

Remember, if your dog is shaved without his coat, he will need extra protection from the sun, flies and parasites. Exposed skin is sensitive to the sun, and sunburn is a possibility if you’re not careful. Severe sunburn can lead to several skin disorders. For protection, make sure to apply sunscreen to your dog’s skin.

Trim Your Dog’s Coat Instead

Keeping your dog’s coat trimmed year-round is always the best option. Most dogs need a haircut every two to three months. Fluffy dogs like Poodles and Bichons will need to be groomed every month.

No matter what length you decide is best for your dog, always provide your dog cool water in the heat of the summer.

Do you have your dog’s coat shaved or trimmed? Sound off in the comments below!

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June 23 2015

Introducing Your Dog to Water

melissa Dogs, Lifestyle, Safety, Training dog summer safety, dog swim, doggy paddle, pet safety

How to Introduce Your Dog to Water

As a dog owner, you want to be able to enjoy the summer season with your dog, which means bringing your dog along your travels. Your summer excursions will often include a body of water, such as the ocean or lake. To ensure you and your dog enjoy your vacation together, learn how to introduce your dog to water. We dive into the precautions you should take prior to leaving for your getaway.

Not All Dogs Can Swim

It’s important to consider that not all dogs can swim well enough to be completely safe when in or around water, but dog training classes can provide them with useful skills. Basset Hounds, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs, for example, have very short legs that usually can’t move quickly enough to keep their bodies afloat. Also, dogs of breeds that naturally have a low body fat percentage, such as Doberman Pinschers and Boxers, are more likely to sink. While many dogs love water and can swim without a problem, others really don’t like water or are afraid of it. This can inhibit their ability to swim. Remember: any dog can drown and hypothermia is always a risk.

Introducing Your Dog to Water

Assess Your Dog’s Skills

Begin by assessing your dog’s skills in a swimming pool or just off the shore of a lake or ocean. Never throw your dog in the water. Introduce him to swimming slowly without encouraging a negative reaction. If he seems happy and proficient at swimming, you can attempt an outing on your boat or at the beach, but keep your first outing brief.

Use a Canine Flotation Device

Purchase a canine personal flotation device (PFD), as this can help your dog float in case he falls off a boat or gets pulled into the ocean. PFDs are vests that often come with a handle on the back, allowing dog owners to lift their pets out of the water.

When selecting a personal flotation device, make sure to bring your dog with you so you can have him try on several vests. You may also want to choose a vest in a color that stands out, such as neon yellow or orange. This can help you find your dog in the water.

Look Out for Heat Stroke Symptoms

Remember that the sun’s rays and heat are harmful not only to humans, but to dogs too. Dogs can get sunburned (especially those with short fur and/or pink skin) and suffer severe repercussions of heat stroke just as humans can.

Early signs of heat stroke include:

Heavy panting
Rapid breathing
Excessive drooling
Bright red gums and tongue
Standing four-square in an attempt to maintain balance

White or blue gums, lethargy or unwillingness to move, uncontrollable urination or defecation, labored and noisy breathing, and shock are all signs of advanced stages of heat stroke.

You can cool your dog down by applying rubbing alcohol to his paw pads, applying ice packs to the groin area, hosing him down with water, and allowing him to lick ice chips or drink a small amount of water. Pedialyte to restore electrolytes is also recommended. If your dog is not cooling down, immediately take him to your veterinarian.

Does your dog like the water? How often do you go swimming together? Tell us in the comments below!

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June 18 2015

Feed and Entertain Your Dog With a Kong Wobbler

melissa Products, Resources dog products, feeding dog with kong wobbler, how to use kong wobbler, kong products, kong wobbler, pet products

Kong Dog Toy

The Kong Wobbler is a dog toy and dog training tool that can be used to entertain an energetic dog or simply alleviate the stress of dealing with a fast eater. It is a food dispenser that is bottom-heavy so your dog is able to access treats by repeatedly tipping it over.

Kong Wobbler Benefits

Slows Down Eating

Oftentimes, dogs become so enthusiastic about their breakfast, lunch or dinner that they inhale their food rather than chewing it. Since dogs don’t have the ability to reason like humans do, they don’t realize eating this way could be harmful or potentially dangerous to them. The Kong dog toy eliminates this problem. With the Kong Wobbler, your dog won’t be able to consume all of his food at once, and thus reducing any chance of him choking.

Keeps Your Dog Busy

Kong Wobblers also aid you with occupying a fussy, excitable dog by providing him with a puzzle that is both time-consuming and rewarding to finish. Playing with your dog is always the best recommended way to relieve excess energy, but not everyone has enough free time to spare each and every day for playtime, so this Kong toy allows you to keep your dog busy without making him feel neglected.

Entertains Your Dog

This dog toy is also great for entertaining your dog while you’re gone. You can leave the toy for him while you’re at the store or even at work. This will give him something to distract his attention while you’re away. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, only provide a Kong Wobbler when you’re around to supervise him. Make sure to also check with a professional dog trainer before leaving any toys unsupervised with your pet.

How Kong Wobblers Work

Simply unscrew the top of the Wobbler and fill it with a serving of dog food or treats. Keep in mind Wobblers won’t work well if you pack it full of kibble so leave a little extra space for it to roll around inside. Close it up and set it down in front of your dog. Be sure to give your dog adequate time to figure out his new toy. Some dogs understand it instantly, but not all of them do, so it’s important to let him discover how to use it on his own. After all, solving the puzzle is part of the fun!

What treats do you use to stuff your Kong Wobbler?

READ MORE: Kong Dog Toys for Chewing Problems

June 16 2015

Disaster Preparedness for Pets

melissa Safety cat safety, disaster preparedness, disaster preparedness for pets, dog safety, pet safety

Make a Disaster Plan for Your Pet

A recent international poll found 61 percent of pet owners would not evacuate during a disaster if they could not bring their pets with them. In 2006, Congress addressed this issue by passing the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act, which requires state and local emergency management agencies to make plans that take into account the needs of individuals with pets and service animals in the event of a major disaster or emergency.

Disasters can happen anywhere at any time. Natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, can occur with little to no warning. Unexpected emergencies, such as fires, often leave families and pets separated without means of communication with each other. The Humane Society of the United States advocates all pet owners to plan ahead to care for their animals when disaster strikes.

How to Prepare for a Disaster

Put a Collar on Your Pet

Put a collar on each of your pets that clearly identifies your pet with his or her name and your contact information. Indoor-only pets should have collars as well.

Photograph Your Pet and Yourself

Take three pictures of you with each of your pets in a well-lit area. You should be able to see your pet’s entire body clearly. The three pictures should be two side-view shots and at least one clear picture of the pet’s face.

Establish a Meeting Area

Talk to your neighbors, family and friends about what they can do for your pets–and what you can do for their pet–if a disaster strikes. All parties should agree upon a location to meet in the event of an emergency. For pet-friendly places to meet, consult with your dog trainer or veterinary assistant.

Locate Hotels

Create a list of hotels (or friends’ homes) that allow your pet(s) to stay with you in the event of an emergency.

Create an Emergency Kit

You should have one emergency preparedness kit for each pet.

A pet emergency kit should contain:

A three-day supply of food and water stored in airtight containers
A sturdy pet leash or harness (or a suitable carrier if you have a small dog)
Extra feeding and watering bowls
Current photos and a physical description of your pets, including identifying markings, microchips or tattoo numbers
Any medications your pet may be taking, vaccination records and basic first aid supplies (ask your veterinary assistant for advice regarding basic first aid needs)
Suitable bedding and comfort items (e.g. a special toy or blanket)
Waste disposal bags
Litter box with litter for cats
Carrier large enough for a cat to use as a temporary apartment for several days

Each emergency kit should be kept in a place where it can be easily accessed. Do not leave pets unattended at any time while traveling in an evacuation situation as they may be experiencing fear and anxiety for which you–the pet owner–may be the only comfort for them.

What if a disaster requiring the evacuation of your pet occurs while you aren’t home? Make arrangements well in advance for a trusted neighbor, friend or veterinary assistant to collect your animals. This person should be familiar and comfortable with your pets, know where they are likely to be in your home, and know where their emergency kits are located. Discuss a specific location with your friend to meet after an evacuation.

If you own horses or other farm animals, you should contact your local humane organization, agricultural extension agent or local emergency management agency to provide you with information about your community’s large-animal disaster response plans.

Source: Humane Society of the United States

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June 12 2015

Can Pets Donate Blood?

melissa Health, Lifestyle can pets donate blood, cat health, dog health, pet blood donation, pet health

Your Pet Can Become a Blood Donor

Giving blood to a veterinary patient can save a life just like in human medical emergencies. Critical care animals with clotting issues, cancer, anemia or other types of injury (e.g. internal bleeding) need blood or plasma. There are programs where pet owners can register their dog–and sometimes their cat–to become a blood donor. Some of these programs are volunteer-based, depending on where you live. Check with your veterinarian to receive a list of local animal blood banks near you. Keep in mind that while some blood banks utilize both dog and cat donors, many are dog-only banks.

Guidelines for a pet to become a blood donor include:

They must be friendly and even tempered.
They must be between the ages of one to six years old.
They must be in good general health.
They must be current on vaccines and heartworm preventive medication (if the area you live in is prevalent with heartworms).
Females must be spayed and have never been pregnant.
They must have never been a recipient of a blood transfusion.
Cats must be indoor cats only and cannot have a heart murmur.
They must be a large dog (over 50 pounds) or a large cat (over 10 pounds).

If your pet meets these requirements, an initial blood screening with a physical examination must be performed. You may have to commit your dog to donate six to eight times a year for dogs and four to six times a year for cats.

Blood Donation Process

Dog Blood Donation

The blood donation process usually lasts for 30 minutes. However, many veterinary hospitals require dogs to stay several hours afterwards to replenish their body with fluids. Sedation is usually not necessary, but it is required to fast your dog for 10 to 12 hours prior to donating.

Approximately 450 milliliters (16 ounces) of blood is taken. They use a catheter to blood from the pet and provide replacement fluids intravenously.

Cat Blood Donation

For cats, the area around their neck is shaved and surgically scrubbed in order for the veterinarian to obtain blood from their jugular vein. Cats are usually given a mild sedative to keep them calm. During an average cat blood donation, about 60 milliliters (2 ounces) of blood is taken and replacement fluids are given under the skin to hydrate them.

Being part of a blood donation program not only means you and your pet are saving lives, but your pet will also receive annual blood work, heartworm, Lyme disease and other screening tests for free. Most blood banks have some type of donor program along with membership requirements. Membership usually includes benefits, such as free blood products for the life of the donor and its housemates.

Sources:
www.petplace.com
www.cvm.umn.edu

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June 9 2015

Treating Bee Stings in Dogs

melissa Health, Lifestyle bee stings in dogs, dog health, dog safety, pet health, pet safety, treating bee stings in dogs, treating bee stings in pets

Bee Sting Treatment

Summer is near, which means your dog will be spending more time playing outdoors. As enjoyable as it is for your dog to romp around outside, there is potential for him to get a bee sting.

Bee and wasp stings not only cause pain and swelling, but they can also be deadly if your dog experiences an allergic reaction to the venom. Dogs often get stung by bees and wasps when they play with them. They usually get stung on the head, face or inside their mouth. If your dog gets stung by a bee, treat it with the tips below.

How to Treat Bee Stings

Remove the Stinger

The first step to treating bee stings is removing the stinger if you can see it. Stingers in the skin can pump venom into the body. Wipe or scrape it off using your fingernail, knife or even a credit card. Never use tweezers, as it could force more venom into your dog.

Assess Your Dog

The next step is to assess your dog. A single sting generally won’t pose much of a concern. The severity of the reaction will depend on the type of allergic reaction your dog may be experiencing.

The most severe signs, such as rapid breathing, wheezing, vomiting and/or having pale gums, may indicate an anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is a condition caused when there is insufficient blood circulation. It is vital to get your dog under the care of a veterinarian if symptoms such as these are apparent. Death from shock can occur if not treated immediately.

Apply an Ice Pack or Cold Washcloth

As long as your dog’s breathing is normal, there are several remedies to alleviate the pain and swelling. Applying an ice pack or a cold washcloth against the swollen area may help reduce inflammation and soothe the pain.

Use Benadryl

Another option may be to treat with an over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl. Benadryl can decrease swelling and should be noticeable within 20 minutes. For the dosage, please check with the veterinary assistant at your local vet office.

Flush the Stinged Area

If the sting is inside the mouth, try offering ice cubes. You can also try flushing the area with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in a pint of water. A turkey baster works well for this, but make sure your dog doesn’t inhale the liquid. With stings in the mouth, your dog’s appetite may be affected. It may hurt your dog to chew so softening the food may help. By day two, his regular diet should resume. If it does not, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Treating Hives

There’s a chance your dog may have a hive-like reaction where he experiences itching all over his body. Cold water soaks or oatmeal baths can help relieve the itching. The hives should be gone within 24 hours, and sooner if treated with an antihistamine.

Enjoy your summer!

June 5 2015

Kennel Cough: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

melissa Health dog health, kennel cough, kennel cough symptoms, kennel cough treatment, pet health

Kennel Cough

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough, or tracheobronchitis, is an infectious condition, in which the upper airways of the respiratory tract become inflamed. It may be caused by a multitude of viruses including canine parainfluenza, canine distemper, canine adenovirus 2 and the bacteria bordetella bronchiseptica.

Kennel cough is characterized by a hacking dry cough, which could be easily elicited by palpating, or gently rubbing, the dog’s trachea. More severe signs of kennel cough include fever, yellow or green discharge from the nose, and decreased appetite.

How is kennel cough spread?

Commonly, dogs who find themselves in an environment with many dogs, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, training classes or even waiting rooms of veterinary hospitals, can come in contact with the infectious agent, as it is usually airborne and thrives in warm, poorly ventilated environments.

Stress from boarding with unfamiliar dogs can also lower the dog’s natural immune defenses, leaving him a bit more susceptible to infection. The incubation period, which is the time from when the animal was exposed until the time symptoms start showing, may be as short as two days or as long as two weeks.

How can you tell if your dog has kennel cough?

If your dog starts coughing after being boarded or groomed, he may have developed kennel cough. Sometimes it can be self-limiting, meaning the virus runs its course and the animal improves on his own. However, since there can be potential for kennel cough to develop into pneumonia, it’s best to have a veterinarian examine the animal.

The veterinarian can make the diagnosis sometimes with just a physical exam. Most likely, your dog will be prescribed a cough suppressant and antibiotics to combat any secondary bacterial infections. The veterinary assistant will explain how to best utilize nursing skills (such as good nutrition) and environmental considerations (such as using a humidifier to sooth irritated respiratory tissues and being in a smoke-free household).

What can I do to prevent kennel cough?

Some components that cause kennel cough are found in your dog’s regular DA2PP vaccine, also known as distemper vaccine. The distemper vaccination includes distemper virus, canine adenovirus type 2, parainfluenza and parvovirus. It’s considered a core vaccine and is usually given annually.

If you board your dog or go to the grooming salon, those facilities often require proof of the DA2PP vaccination as well as the Bordetella vaccine. The Bordetella vaccine is generally given intranasally (in the nose), which many hospitals feel provide better immunity than the traditional injected form of the vaccine. If you plan on boarding your dog, check with your veterinary office for their recommendations on when to schedule the vaccination, as it may take about five days for your dog to generate an immune response from the vaccine in order to provide the needed protection.

Sources:
Merck Veterinary Manual Online
Veterinary Partners – A VIN Subsidiary

You may also like: Giving Oral Medication to Pets

melissa

About melissa

Posts by :

How to train your dog to take treats gently.

Service Dog Training Facts

What is a service dog?

What are the different types of service dogs?

Are dogs that provide emotional support considered service dogs?

What do service dogs do?

Where are service dogs allowed?

Which dog breeds can work as service dogs?

Can you train your own dog to be a service dog?

How can I become a certified service dog trainer?

How long does it take to train a service dog?

How to Protect Your Dog From the Heat

Dog Coats Serve as Insulation

Shaving Your Dog Isn’t Necessary

Trim Your Dog’s Coat Instead

How to Introduce Your Dog to Water

Not All Dogs Can Swim

Introducing Your Dog to Water

Assess Your Dog’s Skills

Use a Canine Flotation Device

Look Out for Heat Stroke Symptoms

Kong Dog Toy

Kong Wobbler Benefits

Slows Down Eating

Keeps Your Dog Busy

Entertains Your Dog

How Kong Wobblers Work

Make a Disaster Plan for Your Pet

How to Prepare for a Disaster

Put a Collar on Your Pet

Photograph Your Pet and Yourself

Establish a Meeting Area

Locate Hotels

Create an Emergency Kit

Your Pet Can Become a Blood Donor

Blood Donation Process

Dog Blood Donation

Cat Blood Donation

Bee Sting Treatment

How to Treat Bee Stings

Remove the Stinger

Assess Your Dog

Apply an Ice Pack or Cold Washcloth

Use Benadryl

Flush the Stinged Area

Treating Hives

Kennel Cough

What is kennel cough?

How is kennel cough spread?

How can you tell if your dog has kennel cough?

What can I do to prevent kennel cough?

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