What is Holistic Dog Health?

By Geraldine Dimarco

Alternative health care for dogs, such as holistic healthcare, is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets are healthy, playful, and living long, happy, full lives.

Nutritional needs are perhaps the most important aspect to consider when it comes to a dog's health, as theirs are somewhat different from ours and will require a certain balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to ensure everything from the digestive systems to the bones, joints, and organs as well as the skin and coat are as healthy as possible. A diet of meat, vegetables, and whole grains without any processed foods or unnecessary fillers is usually recommended when following the holistic approach to dog care.

Your Dog's Health and Herbal Remedies.

Throughout the course of various millennia, humans have controlled illness through the remedial use of various herbal, floral and other plant extracts. Because pet owners prefer less risky and less invasive treatment alternatives, pet care now incorporates ancient healing practices.

Canine herbal remedies include calendula and chamomile for treating wounds, with chamomile used to give relief for respiratory compaints as well. Flaxseed mixed with lots of water may help cure dogs who are constipated or have other bowel problems. Oats may help soothe your dog's dry, itchy skin, as they do the same thing for humans, and smelling lavender may help your pooch get some shut-eye if he is having difficulty sleeping.

Before concocting any type of herbal remedies of your own, make it a point to do plenty of research and be absolutely certain that what you're giving your dog isn't toxic or harmful in any way, as not all herbs and flowers are safe for pets, or even people for that matter. It is always wise to consult with your veterinarian about the proper care and possible remedies for holistic dog health.

Alternative Medicine for Pets

Today there are an increasing number of veterinarians who are putting great stock in holistic dog health, making it a large part of their practice. A veterinarian who practices holistic pet care treats animals as a whole, rather than identifying a certain problem and prescribing one type of treatment related to that specific injury or illness.

For instance, if your dog has suddenly come down with some sort of rash on his skin causing irritation, redness, itching, a possible infection, and some fur loss, a "regular" vet would probably prescribe an antibiotic to treat the skin infection and then perhaps a topical ointment to address the itching.

A holistic veterinarian will place more emphasis on determining the cause of the rash as the source of the infection before prescribing those two remedies. Before coming to a conclusion or offering treatment, the dog's entire lifestyle are taken into account; his living environment, nutrition, exercise and all habits.

With pet food recalls, vaccination and immunization questions, and overmedication fears on the rise, effective ways to keep our furry friends in the best health is a top priority.

About the Author:

If you're interested in holistic dog health as a means to improving your dog's health, the top holistic dog health resource is www.HealthyHappyDogs.com

Canine Congestive Heart Failure Treatments: They Can Work!

By Geraldine Dimarco

Canine heart disease is one of the last things any pet owner wants to hear. It is a potentially critical sickness that many experts are still trying to find a cure to. Fortunately, there are canine congestive heart failure treatments that help extend the lifespan of your pet as well as improve the quality of his life.

First of all, what exactly are canine heart diseases? This is basically when the heart of the dog fails to function properly. The heart is made up of four chambers, each operating together with a set of valves. Heart problems set in when certain parts of the organ cease to work and the rest will have to compensate by exerting more effort. While dogs don't necessarily experience heart attacks, these complications lead to congestive heart failure when left unchecked for too long.

Coughing, labored breathing, tiredness, fainting and blue tinged gums are some symptoms of canine heart disease. Also, observe if the tummy of your pet is distended. This disease causes high blood pressure which makes fluid leak out of blood vessels. This fluid then builds up in the lungs and abdominal cavity of the canine, thus making him look bloated.

Unfortunately, because the symptoms usually seem mild and harmless, the pet owner doesn't sometimes realize that their pet is already suffering from a heart problem. It is vital that you continue to have regular visits to the vet to be able to detect and correctly diagnose any health concern that your pet may have.

If there are some heart problems that your pet has been diagnosed with, do not worry too much. Studies are being made and progressive canine congestive heart failure treatments are continuously being done to find the best ways to improve your dog's condition.

There are a few medications out in the market today that will correct the deficiencies in your dog's heart. Some of these drugs focus in repairing erratic heartbeats, rectifying fluid build-up, and increasing blood as being pumped by the heart. Many times, surgery is the best option. After prognosis and the necessary rest, resume the dog's regular exercise routines.

There are also herbal cardio tonic supplements that have been proven valuable in treating dogs with heart diseases. Crateagus oxycantha, Calcium fluoride, Kalium phosphate and Arnica Montana strengthen the arteries and encourage excellent blood pressure. Mistletoe and Valerian root also benefit the canine's cardiovascular health.

A low sodium, mineral rich food plan is also vital in ensuring your pet's best health. Nutrients like taurine, l-carnitine, calcium, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids are exceptionally beneficial to cardiovascular strength. Include chopped up pieces of yam, squash, broccoli, carrots, beets and cucumber in his meals.

Naturally, it breaks our heart to discover a potentially critical sickness our pet might be facing. However, let us continue to look at what can be done, instead of focusing on the problems. You have the opportunity to spend quality years with your beloved pet - make it as memorable as you can.

About the Author:

Canine heart disease is certainly a major concern. But it may not be fatal for your dog. Canine congestive heart failure treatments can prolong your dog's life significantly these days! Go to HealthyHappyDogs.com for more info.

Dog Health Symptoms You Should Know About

By Jennefer Poultson

If you are a loving pet owner, your dog's health is extremely important to you. You will notice things in their behavior before anyone else, almost like one of your children. Keeping a close eye on changes and determining if they are acting abnormal can quickly pinpoint key health symptoms. Having some, basic knowledge of common illnesses will let you know more quickly if a trip to the veterinarian is in order.

When considering dog health symptoms, remember that the best thing that you can do to be attentive to your dog's normal behavior. The better you know your dog, the better off you will be when it comes to trying to help him heal. Think about whether your dog is outgoing and patient or more nervous and restive. You'll find that a change in behavior can signify a great deal. For instance, if your dog is typically very friendly but has gone into hiding and whines at being petted, this could be a sign that he is in trouble.

There are a few symptoms that unquestioningly need medical assistance and one of them is blood in the urine. Blood in your dog's urine can be an indication of kidney disease or failure. If that is the case, he will need immediate medical treatment. Your quick action could save your animal's life so do not delay even a moment. Similarly, blood in the feces can point to a common illness called parvo. This virus if caught early can be cured but if left to long will be fatal.

Nausea and vomiting is common in all pets and usually means they have eaten something that does not agree with them. However if the nausea is coupled with fever, lethargy or pain this could be a sign that veterinary attention is required. Repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration and allow secondary infections, which may be fatal. Again, this is where paying close attention to their health and symptoms of common illnesses is vital. Remember too that many times your pet will look fine but be gravely ill they have evolved to be that way.

When looking for symptoms of poor health in your dog do not overlook their coat. A dogs coat should feel thick and look relatively glossy. If you reach down to pet your dog and find that the coat is oddly dry and brittle or there are bald patches you should check into the cause. One common cause of a bad coat is worms; this parasite robs the dog of nutrition and therefore leaves the coat unhealthy. Of course, if you have a dog whose hair is naturally coarse, like a wirehaired terrier then this rule does not apply.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible health problems your dog may face. So always, take the time to examine what is normal for your pet and what is not. This will keep you leaps ahead of the game and could possibly head off serious issues.

About the Author:

Discover the facts about dog health symptoms and dog health information to maintain your dog's health, visit HealthierDogs.com

House Training a Puppy - How to Go About It

By Geraldine Dimarco

OK, so you've got an adorable pup with big brown eyes looking up at you-if you look down you will also see a brown mound of poop on your newly cleaned carpet. It won't be long before you'll find yourself getting frustrated with your new baby so as early as now, learn all that you can learn about house training a puppy and save yourself from unnecessary bills and aggravation.

Dog potty training is perhaps the first thing you will have to teach your little friend. The good news is that if you start them at a young age, the easier it is for the both of you. Eight to twelve weeks of age is the best time to train them, and when you do so in the right way, it will benefit you for the rest of his canine years.

The most crucial aspect of potty training is the timing. As with most living things-what you eat, you will discharge. Therefore it follows that whenever you feed him, you will have to expect that he will eliminate it after 20 to 30 minutes of consumption. Observe him for the signs that show that he is going to poop or pee soon. Bring him outside so he understands that he has to do it outside your home.

When you take him outside for a walk after mealtimes, bring him to a designated spot you want him to eliminate in. If you see that he is ready to take a poop, say "go potty", or whatever phrase you want him to associate with doing potty. Say it a few times for the next few weeks while you're training him. You are establishing a cue phrase that he will eventually understand and obey on command.

When the young dog eliminates successfully in the place you want him to, affectionately shower him with a lot of praise. Show him what an outstanding puppy he is with what he just accomplished by giving him your undivided attention for several minutes. Doggie treats are also good but generally, it is your approval he wants. If you lavish him with praise and attention-he will try to keep doing what it was that merited that reaction from you.

After a few minutes of happy play time, take him back inside the house. Do not feed him or give him water if you are unable to bring him outdoors after. Remember, you need to establish good habits in the young pup so that he grows up knowing the right way of doing things. Bring him outside for potty after each time he wakes up, after meals and just before his bed time.

Within the next two months of dog potty training, you will probably have a few accidents inside the house. When you see the poop, do not get upset at the little fur ball-he will not understand you. Clean up the mess and continue your training. House training a puppy is not always an easy task but one that reaps great rewards. Enjoy!

About the Author:

One of the most essential tasks you need to learn is dog potty training. Find out the best way on house training a puppy when you go to this excellent canine site today-HealthyHappyDogs.com.

How to Correct the Barking of Small Dogs

By Colin Seal

Massive and tiny dogs behave the same way. If big dogs could cause issues due to barking that cannot be controlled, tiny dogs can also do this. So when this misbehaviour happens, you will certainly need the bark collar for small dogs to stop puppy barking. The collar can be effective but it must be complemented by a training programme that can correct the problem. This training will take time and desires proper implementation. It needs the resolution of the owner also. Besides , it can be enjoyable.

Little Barking Dog Training

The tutor should exercise the power of mind and patience as well for small dogs can be stubborn. Simultaneously, you want to utilise the bark collar for tiny dogs in the right way. Keep the sessions short. These should be around 15 minutes each and at least three times per day. The floor must be covered by old newspapers or other materials that may be disposed of once it's been dirtied or after the training routine.

This is important especially when the dog training is focused on defecating or urinating. Choose a good place where the dog has to move its guts till the point that it learns where it should answer the call of nature. Your principal target is to change a poor approach of your pet. It is going to be rough on occasions so you should not show any excitement, irritation or impatience.

Positive Re-strengthening for Tiny Barking Dogs

Positive re-strengthening is applicable for these pets like the bark collar for small dogs. Avoid scolding, roaring or striking the animal. It'll just retard the training process. These are rewards, treats or games that can persuade your dog to repeat an action that you want. It's the best of all training methods. While canine training requires considerable abilities, good dog obedience training should also cover the employment of reinforcements and you're craving to build a healthy and good relationship with your dog.

One valuable facet of using positive re-strengthening is the timing. Reinforcements have to be used or given immediately after the action you want your dog to perform. If you command your dog to jump and it obeys, you need to give the animal something which will make it satisfied. If you deliver a treat immediately after your dog replies, you'll be amazed at how snappy your dog will learn. You should expect that positive training using combined with these tools can generate positive effects.

About the Author:

The Dog Line provides tips in dog training as well as supplies dog keepers with barking dog tools like the Citronella Bark Collar. For more related information about the Bark Collar for Small Dogs, Click Here or log in to the internet site of The Dog Line.

Your Vet Should Be the One to Make a Dog Health Diagnosis

By Geraldine Dimarco

Holistic dog health care is becoming a natural way for pet owners to provide a dog health diagnosis so their cherished pets are always at their healthiest.

Nutritional needs are perhaps the most important aspect of dog health, and of course a dog's nutritional needs are completely different to members of the human species. Dogs need a certain balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to make sure their digestive systems as well as the skeletal system, joints,and organs are kept as healthy as possible. Holistic dog diets usually require proteins, vegetables, and a small amount of grains. They do not need fillers and over-processed foods that are so often a feature of commercial dog foods.

Once you have a dog health diagnosis, you can go the conventional treatment way, or use a combination of various essential oils, flowering essences, plant extracts, and certain herbs. You can consult with a holistic veterinarian, or you could do your own research on holistic dog health care and run your ideas past your vet before embarking upon a holistic treatment regime. These ancient healing practices have in recent years found their way into pet care and are now becoming increasingly popular as more and more dog owners are looking for safer, healthier, and less invasive alternatives to treating their pets.

Canine herbal remedies include calendula and chamomile for treating wounds, with chamomile used to give relief for respiratory compaints as well. Flaxseed mixed with lots of water may help cure dogs who are constipated or have other bowel problems. Oats may help soothe your dog's dry, itchy skin, and smelling lavender may help your pooch get some shut-eye if he is having difficulty sleeping.

Before concocting any type of herbal remedies of your own, make it a point to do plenty of research and be absolutely certain that what you're giving your dog isn't toxic or harmful in any way, as not all herbs and flowers are safe for pets, or even people for that matter. It is always wise to consult with your veterinarian about the proper care and possible remedies for holistic dog health.

Nowadays, many veterinarians are developing faith in a holistic dog fitness approach, and are using it as a way to augment their practices. A veterinarian who practices holistic pet care treats animals as a whole, rather than identifying a certain problem and prescribing one type of treatment related to that specific injury or illness.

A dog health diagnosis from a holistic vet is likely to look at the dog as a whole, so treating one dog with itchy skin may be different to treating another with similar symptoms, depending upon enivorenmental factors.

A holistic veterinarian will be more concerned about the source of the rash and why it happened even though they may still prescribe the two remedies. Keeping holistic care in mind, the dog's indoor and outdoor environment, its daily lifestyle, eating habits and nutritional intake are all to be considered before diagnosing or treating the animal.

About the Author:

Discover the facts about holistic dog health and dog health diagnosis to keep your dog healthy, visit HealthierDogs.com

How to Identify Kidney Disease in Dogs

By Geraldine Dimarco

Kidney disease is a common and serious condition that can affect many dogs. It is probably one of the leading causes of death in older dogs. There are two forms in which the disease can manifest itself, acute or chronic. The acute form can happen so quickly and suddenly, while the chronic form begins slowly and progresses over time. Sadly for the owner, news of either form of disease is upsetting.

Kidneys are an important organ for the body - human or canine. They are responsible for ridding the body of toxins by filtration. Kidney disease causes the kidneys to function at only about thirty percent of their capacity. If the kidneys stop working, the toxins accumulate in the blood and get deposited in other organs. Subsequently, the dog dies.

Kidney failure in dogs stops the ability of the body to function properly. Toxins begin to build up in their bodies and once this starts, a number of symptoms and warning signs will more than likely become apparent. These two chronic diseases show different symptoms, the acute form can appear more suddenly. Often, dogs suffering from this type of kidney disease will possibly have become dehydrated. For the owner to test for hydration, gently pull on the skin of your dog's stomach. This should spring back. If it doesn't, there may be a possibility that your dog is dehydrated.

Another telltale sign of the acute kidney disease is the extreme reduction or total stoppage of urine. Your dog would suddenly stop urinating. It is a very excruciating process as the kidneys become quite painful. This is the most obvious sign. You would notice your pet's arched back or stiff leg movement. In such a case, you would need to rush your precious pet to a veterinarian immediately.

In the case of chronic kidney disease, the symptoms are different and they occur over a period of time. The first indicator is an increase in thirst and consequently water consumption. This is a constant indicator of the disease. The dog might lose his or her desire to eat resulting in excessive weight loss over time. Contrary to the acute kidney disease, in the chronic version, the canine loses control over its bladder function. As a result, it urinates very frequently. As time passes, the process of urinating will cause extreme discomfort and become very painful. It is possible that there might even be blood in the urine or it may become impossible for the dog to urinate completely. Since the chronic kidney disease is a fatal illness, it is advisable to rush your pet to the veterinarian as soon as you see any of the warning signs such as problem in urination, vomiting, lethargy and depression. Any combination of these signs is a sure shot reason to go to the vet. If caught in time, there is hope for cure of this malady.

The treatment that a vet will start, for this very serious ailment, is typically four staged. The first step is to carry out a physical check up to eliminate other reasons for the symptoms. Next is the verification from the owner regarding the history and symptoms of this disorder. Then there will be tests - a blood test and finally a urine test to confirm the prognosis.

About the Author:

Conventional veterinary medicine has limited answers for treating kidney disease in dogs, but there are natural alternatives that can even reverse canine kidney failure.