Pet Care Store Online

An Effective Home Remedy for Kennel Cough

Jemma Reynolds — Tue, 24 May 2011 21:31:59 +0000

Do you hear your dog with a dry, hacking cough more and more often? I mean he’s coughing during exercise, when lying down, when his throat is pressed—all the time he’s coughing. Does he have runny eyes and nose? Is he sneezing and snorting more frequently than normal? If this is your dog, you need an effective home remedy for kennel cough you can use for him.

What is kennel cough exactly? If you are worried that this is a fatal canine sickness, then still your fears. This is a condition that deals with upper respiratory problems that your dog might be dealing with. It is easily treatable but you have to treat it as soon as possible so it will not escalate to more serious problems like pneumonia.

It is always better to use natural and holistic methods in curing your dog’s illnesses than to resort to medications. Chemicals and drugs can be very harmful to your dog’s internal organs, especially when they are consistently used time and time again. A good kennel cough treatment will not only target your dog’s kennel cough, it will act to improve his entire respiratory health as well.

Remember, before there were pharmaceutical companies around, sick dogs in the wild are said to instinctively take leaves and organic herbs that have healing properties. This is a better way to cure canine sicknesses. Check out pet care sites that recommend some of these herbal remedies for kennel cough. Chances are you’ll find a kennel cough treatment that will help cure your dog, and improve his general health as well.

Steam treatments, saunas and vaporizers are also excellent ways to help aid your dog’s respiratory health. You can create a sauna for your dog at home yourself too. Put the shower on with the heater in the highest setting. When the bathroom is sufficiently foggy and warm, bring your dog in and close the door behind you. Let him breathe the warm steam for 20 minutes to loosen phlegm in his bronchial tubes. It will help him breathe easier afterwards. Make sure you towel and dry him of thoroughly before bringing him outside.

You can prevent your dog from even developing kennel cough by keeping the house free from cold and dampness. If possible, have an air filter that will reduce airborne bacteria from harming your family and your dog’s health. Clean his toys, water bowl and food dish well to minimize germ exposure. Most of all, if there are any other sick animals in the house— make sure that they are cared for in a separate room. Many canine conditions, like kennel cough, are easily transmitted so isolate the sick pets until they are feeling better.

Now you have an excellent home remedy for kennel cough, share this information with your other pet owner friends who have the same predicament so their dogs get better soon enough. Not only does this make you a good friend—you’re dog will have healthy friends as well.

Dog Needs

The Benefits Of Dog Exercise

Jemma Reynolds — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 08:28:59 +0000

Have you ever come home with your favorite pair of shoes all chewed up? Maybe you’ve had stuffing removed in your couch cushions one too many times because of your pet’s vigorous gnawing and romping around. These unfortunate incidents could have been avoided by practicing dog exercise regularly.

Exercise is an integral part of your dogs health. The amount and intensity of workout generally depends on the animal’s breed, size and current health conditions, but definitely you need to make it a point to engage your dog in physical activities regularly.

There are many health benefits of exercise. One of the most important things that exercise is good for is preventing obesity in dogs. Did you know that many canine sicknesses could have been prevented with weight control? An overweight dog is reported to be more susceptible to arthritis, diabetes and canine heart complications.

Good circulation is another benefit that is the result of exercise. You can avoid digestive and constipation problems with regular workout sessions. Make sure your dog drinks a lot of fresh, clean water daily to aid in keeping his system cleansed and virus free.

When you bring your dog out to exercise, it not only develops his agility and strength, it also makes a huge difference in his disposition. Exercise prevents depression and more than that, makes a way for timid dogs to build up their confidence and trust. When a dog is mentally and physically stimulated, you have an energetic and playful dog that is a joy to be around.

Most of all, exercise is the best way to rein in a dog’s destructive behavior. More often than not, a dog that keeps destroying things is bored and has nowhere to vent their excess energy. Channel this energy in more productive avenues that will release his tension. Not only will this promote a good rest for your tired and happy dog, your home will also enjoy an era of peace that it so desperately needs.

What are some of the exercises that you can have your dog participate in? Walking and light jogging are the common forms of physical activity you can expect. Fetching is another great activity you can use to bond with your pet, but make sure you are a great thrower. You don’t want your dog to bring you some other person’s stuff and get you in trouble.

Swimming is a great activity to keep your dog fit and healthy. Unlike intense sports where your dog’s joints could suffer, swimming encourages greater mobility. It is also something dogs generally love to do. If being outdoors is not an option for that day, stair climbing is an excellent exercise to keep his weight down without doing damage to his joints and muscles.

Dog exercise is a fantastic way to ensure your dog’s best health. It’s really not that hard to do if you think about it. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy dog. Enjoy the best years of your dog’s life when you use this simple tips today.

Dog Needs

Common Dog Health Problems and Their Cures

Jemma Reynolds — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 07:49:12 +0000

Our dogs rank high on some of the most important things in our lives. They are our family. That’s why it really saddens us when they are sick or depressed or suffering from something. It is especially frustrating because we don’t always know what it is that’s wrong with him. Here are some common dog health problems that you should watch out for.

Any pet owner knows that one of the most common inconveniences of dogs is infestation of parasites. Now, it may seem like a small matter in the beginning. However, if nothing is being done about them, it can escalate to a more serious disease later on. Untreated external parasites have been known to cause severe infection and extreme discomfort to the poor animal.

Essential oils are excellent natural remedies for fleas. You can also use garlic to repel mosquitoes and fleas but I doubt you’d like the smell of a garlicky pet greeting you at the end of the day. Mix together a few drops of tea tree, lavender, citronella, peppermint or eucalyptus oil with water. Use this spray and lightly mist your dog’s beddings and coat. Make sure you keep away from his eyes, nose, ears and mouth.

In relation to parasites, skin problems are another common dog problem that you need to look out for. Many times because of mange, fleas or internal parasites, dogs itch so much to the point of self-mutilation. They develop bald spots and open wounds from constantly scratching themselves. Use olive oil or Aloe Vera as a soothing balm over these wounds.

Allergies are another prevalent canine ailment. The symptoms of allergies are diarrhea, skin rashes, itchiness and vomiting. It can be caused by several factors like detergent, a particular food ingredient, pollen, or medication. Think back on what could have caused your dog to exhibit these allergic reactions. You need to eliminate the source of it right away.

Many senior dogs seem to develop arthritis after a few years. The normal wear and tear of the joints can be aggravated if you have an overweight dog so be sure to monitor his food intake and keep him on a regular exercise regimen. A good diet rich with vitamins and nutrients is essential in keeping him healthy, effectively impeding the progression of any canine disease.

You should also make it a point to build up your dog’s immune system. A dog with a strong immune system is less likely to develop infections and be sick. Invest in giving the best supplements for dogs. The healthier the dog, the less likely he will be sick. Can you imagine how much veterinarian fees and medications you will save because of this?

Dog health problems can be very upsetting for pet owners and animal alike. Fortunately, there are natural remedies and beneficial supplements that will help significantly reduce the chances for him to be sick. Do what you can in keeping your dog as healthy as possible and you will be rewarded with many more happy years together. Enjoy!

Dog Needs

Causes, Symptoms and Treatment For Dog Worms

Jemma Reynolds — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:45:03 +0000

I don’t know about you, but there is nothing more annoying than dog worms. These little monsters may seem harmless to many, but I’ve seen them do untold damage to a lot of my friends’ pets. There are many kinds of worms but they are all potentially life threatening to your pet if you do not do anything about them.

These worms are often found in dirt, soil and feces. Most worms are transferred through ingestion, but there are some that can be transmitted simply by contact. Yes, they penetrate the skin and enter the host’s system just like that. I know— terrible right? If your pet has been playing and running around in soil, do not let him in the immediately. Wash him off with soap and water first.

Feces is another common way of transference of worms. Dogs do not have discriminating taste and often you will find many of them licking feces. Not only is that gross, it is highly likely that he has ingested worm eggs, thus initiating worm infestation. Remove feces from your backyard and home as soon as you see them, and sanitize the area in your home with a strong solution to ensure that whatever eggs are present are killed.

Canine worms are not usually obvious in the beginning stages. However, if the infestation is severe enough, you will begin to notice several unusual signs in your dog. Some of these symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, a lackluster coat of hair, a distended tummy, lack of energy and coughing.

Some worms will also cause specific behavior like “butt scooting” or scratching his anus against furniture chairs or wall to relieve extreme itchiness. If this is your dog it is highly probably that he has worms or eggs around his anus so make sure you do not touch him in that area or you might contract it yourself. Other times, worms that latch themselves in the host’s intestinal walls will cause bleeding so anemia and a bloody stool will result.

There are several possible medications in the market, but the best worm treatment for cats and dogs are those made of herbs and other natural elements. De-worming medication that many vets sometimes prescribe contain pesticide ingredients that is really bad for the animal. These pesticides have reportedly caused cancer, liver, bladder, lung and kidney damage, dizziness, seizures and muscle tremors.

Remember that worm treatments are not a one-time procedure. You need to regularly give your pet these remedies to kill off worms and their eggs that might be residing in his body. Make it your goal to have a healthy pet because worms do not do well inside a healthy host. Give him a well-balanced diet; provide fresh water constantly; and maintain a regular exercise routine daily to ensure a healthy pet.

Dog worms are unfortunate, but with the right preventative measures and treatment— our pets can emerge the winner. Do your best to take care of your beloved dog and enjoy many more years of happy memories when you do. Have fun!

Dog Needs

An Effective Pinworm Treatment

Jemma Reynolds — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 12:51:21 +0000

Unless you are 9 years old and below, I think we have a general consensus that worms are not the acquaintances we should be making. They are not only wriggly and disgusting— they can be the cause of a lot of sicknesses that could have otherwise been avoided. There are many kinds of worms, one of which is the pinworm. What is a good pinworm treatment and where can I find one today?

First of all, let us understand what pinworms are. These internal parasites beset human and animal alike. It is said that more than 200 million people from all over the world are suffering from pinworm infestation. It doesn’t matter if you are rich or poor, a dog or a cat, in cold weather or in humid climate— pinworms are present everywhere and they are not choosy with their victims.

What do pinworms look like? These internal parasites are slender, infinitesimal worms that are whitish in color. They are prevalent in heavily congested places like hospitals, schools, kennels and puppy mills. They can be transferred by accidental ingestion of contaminated water and food from the infected host. Children are most susceptible to pinworm infestation.

One of the most common symptoms of pinworm is an itchy butt. You will notice that pinworms in dogs will manifest in the dog dragging his anus on the floor to relieve himself of this irritation. This is because pinworms dwell in the intestines, and the female pinworm makes her way down the anus to lay her eggs at night. A stool sample (especially first thing in the morning) will determine whether or not the host has pinworms or not.

Pinworm remedies are available in most drugstores. However, it is highly advisable that you weight your options very carefully before determining what treatment to take. For humans and hounds, the natural route is always the better alternative. Drugs containing harsh chemicals are found to cause more damage to the body— instigating health complications, lowering the quality of life and even shortening the lifespan of the unsuspecting victim.

If your dog has worms, find a holistic vet who can help you find the best cure for him. The treatment will vary depending on your dog’s current health status, age and the severity of the infestation. Consistent treatment though will ensure that he will eventually enjoy a worm-free system.

This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to care about worms anymore. Remember, dog worms abound everywhere and not just with pinworms. You need to de-worm your dog regularly to ensure his well-being in this regard. Preventative worm treatment with natural herbs and other organic elements not only kill internal parasites safely, they improve the other functions in your dog’s body as well.

Other than a natural pinworm treatment, give your dog a healthy diet. The healthier the animal is, the less inclined internal and external parasites are to feed off of him. Aim to improve your dog’s immune system so he can successfully fight off infections that come to his body.

Dog Needs

What Are The Best Supplements For Dogs?

Jemma Reynolds — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:22:09 +0000

I don’t know about you but I plan to make sure that my dog is the healthiest he can ever be. How do I do this? I make sure he has a well-balanced diet, regular exercise and periodic health visits to the vet. I also give him supplements for dogs that I know will be good for him.

You may be asking— do I really need to give my dog supplements? Isn’t feeding him nutritious food enough? It’s admirable that you are giving your pet healthy food and dietary supplements can never replace that. There are numerous benefits that your dog is missing out on if you do not give him supplements.

We cannot always give our pets the nutritional requirements they should get. Supplements give whatever it is that they might need for their health. The best supplements for dogs typically lengthen the life span of your dog, improve the quality of his life, make his over-all appearance look better, and improve his immune system— effectively protecting him from possible infections and sicknesses.

What you give your dog will greatly depend on his present health condition. A healthy, young pup, for instance, will not require as much care as an older dog. Older dogs will need supplements that will impede the progress of arthritis and other canine sicknesses that canines usually develop with age. Find supplements with chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine to alleviate inflammation and other painful side effects of arthritis.

It is advised that you do not give your dog calcium tablets during her pregnancy. You should, however, provide extra care in preparing her diet as she begins nursing her pups. Not only does she need to take care of her own needs, she has to muster up enough calories and minerals to adequately support her pups that will be feeding from her.

Large dogs will also have a higher nutrient requirement than smaller dogs. This is especially true for the active and working breed. You don’t want a German Shepherd suddenly fainting while in pursuit of a criminal, now do you? Consult a vet and find out what is a good dosage to give your dog and monitor them closely. There are times toxicity can result from dogs that have been given too much of a beneficial vitamin or mineral. If this is the case, lower the dosage or stop giving him the particular vitamin altogether.

Your dog’s past health issues are other important factors that need to be considered when deciding on which are the best supplements for dogs. Certain natural herbs will be helpful for particular ailments, but detrimental for some. Research on the herbs that are listed on the label of the supplements and again— ask the expert advice of a holistic veterinarian for this.

As you continue to give your pet supplements, you will notice that he will have a shinier coat, clearer eyes, happier disposition—and he will less likely to get sick as well. Invest in your dogs health; invest in great supplements for dogs today!

Dog Needs

What Are The Most Helpful Vitamins for Dogs?

Jemma Reynolds — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:24:00 +0000

A well-balanced diet is an essential aspect of your dog’s best health. Healthy and fresh food are not only delicious for the happy canine, it makes sure that his internal systems are in good working order. To keep your dog stronger and more protected from the many canine diseases out there, you should also give him supplements with essential minerals. Here are some of the most helpful vitamins for dogs you can give him.

Let’s start with the first of the alphabet— vitamin A. This vitamin improves the quality of your dog’s skin and coat. It also aids in repairing night vision and growth retardation. Vitamin D is a significant force in controlling nerves and muscles as well as the formation of bones. Vitamin E enhances the animal’s reproductive system. Some excellent sources of these vitamins are found in liver, fish liver oil, vegetables, dairy products, fresh meat, nuts, egg yolk, kelp and alfalfa.

Vitamin C has many benefits to your dog’s health. It aids in binding connective tissues, tendons and ligaments, cartilage, blood vessels and skin. Vitamin C boosts the immune system which helps in fighting off the many infections and diseases that tries to get on your dog. Fresh fruits are the best place to get your dog’s dose of vitamin C.

Coenzyme Q10 is an excellent element to help dogs with heart problems. Vitamin E and B6 is also said to improve his cardiovascular condition. Zinc is a powerful anti-oxidant that plays a big role in skin and hair growth, developing skeletal structure and synthesizing collagen in the body. Selenium is integral in anti-oxidant production, but the dosage administered should be carefully monitored. High levels of selenium can prove to be toxic for dogs.

Omega 3 fatty acids and fish oils vastly improve painful inflammation in joints and muscles. Therefore these nutrients are perfect for more aged dogs dealing with arthritis. Incorporate these with chondroitin and glucosamine—two other minerals that provide relief in joint inflammation, while helping impede the progression of canine arthritis.

Look to reliable canine sites to help you find the best supplements for dogs. Remember to consult with your dog’s vet first before you proceed in giving him anything. Your pet might have some underlying sickness or complication that will render the supplement useless, or worse, will be detrimental to his health. Regular visits with the vet and periodic health checks are recommended so you are updated with the status of your dog’s health constantly.

These supplements are great but don’t forget to maintain a good diet and exercise for your dog. Exercise not only keeps them in their ideal weight, it also promotes better circulatory functions. Provide your pet fresh and clean water daily to cleanse his system from toxins and infections as often as possible.

Now you know what vitamins for dogs will benefit him the most— you have a better chance to be the owner of a healthy and good looking dog! This is a precious gift that is worth any investment. Enjoy your dog’s happy company today!

Dog Needs

Natural Kennel Cough Treatment And Remedies

Jemma Reynolds — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 15:50:31 +0000

Do you know what kennel cough is? This happens when there are complications in your dog’s upper respiratory system. It is similar for us humans having the common cold. Read on to know more about a safe and effective kennel cough treatment you can give your pet today.

Before anything else, you must determine first if your dog has kennel cough. I mean, it might be that he is sick and it is a completely different canine sickness altogether. Giving him the wrong treatment will not only prove to be futile, it can possibly aggravate his condition as well. What are some kennel cough symptoms that you should look out for?

Definitely the primary symptom is a dry, hacking cough. The coughing may intensify at night when he is in a reclining position. Coughing may also lead to gagging and vomiting and this is easily triggered as well. Simple exercise, being excited or a gentle pressure on his throat may set off a severe coughing spasm.

Dogs with kennel cough will often show signs of sneezing or snorting. When he sneezes, it is common to see light colored discharge. However, if the phlegm that he coughs up is dark yellow or green, you need to bring him to the vet right away. This means that the kennel cough symptoms have escalated into secondary bacterial infection that may be more critical than a simple cough.

There are many natural and homeopathic remedies available for dogs suffering from kennel cough. Special herbs can help the dog cough up mucous more quickly and further inhibiting mucous production. Other organic elements provide relief for inflammation in the bronchial tubes, making it easier for the dog to breathe. Give your dog vitamins and minerals that specifically boost his immune system to help fight any infection that might try to come to his system.

While waiting for your dog’s homeopathic remedy to work itself out, do what you can to keep your dog as comfortable as possible. Don’t bring him outdoors as often, especially if the weather is particularly damp or cold. Keep him dry and away from drafts in your home. If you don’t need to bring him outside, remove his dog collar to help him avoid pressure in his throat which may prompt another coughing spasm. Pour water over his dog food so to make it easier for his sore throat to take in the food.

Some pet owners also use a vaporizer to help their dog breathe better at night. Position the unit near your dog’s crate (make sure the cords are covered so the dog will not be tempted to chew on them) and add a menthol vaporizer formulation to the unit. The steam in the vaporizer will help clear your dog’s air passageways and will result in a more restful sleep for your pet.

A good kennel cough treatment need not be expensive or complicated. Use these simple tips to help cure your dog of his cough and you will have a healthy dog in no time at all.

Dog Needs

The Secret Of Happy Healthy Dogs

Jemma Reynolds — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:55:17 +0000

I don’t know about you, but one of the best things for me is when I go to the park and see happy healthy dogs playing around and enjoying a grand time with their obviously loving masters. I mean, really—what good is having a pet if he will just be neglected and not taken cared of properly? If you are going to have a pet, be sure that you are ready to have the best experience in life— as well as take on the responsibility of caring for a loyal and trusting companion all the days of his life.

A happy dog is a healthy dog. So what are the things we can do to ensure our pet’s best health? The first thing is to see to it that they get a well-balanced diet with nutritious and vitamin-rich food. Give them fresh meat, fruits and vegetables. Be careful that you chop the pieces to bite sized pieces—especially with the bones. You don’t want these bones to splinter and be choking hazards to your dog.

It is important that you do not give your pet just any kind of food. There are certain ingredients that are detrimental to his health. If you have no time to plan and prepare your dog home-cooked meals, then give him healthy dog food. There are great health dog food brands that have the essential minerals and nutrients that the dogs need. Look for dog food that is processed through dehydration, and does not contain any preservatives, additives, fillers and artificial flavorings.

Dog health care also includes making sure that your dog is clean and groomed regularly. Fleas and other parasites are not just a trivial, bothersome matter— they can cause serious damage to your pet’s health. Skin diseases, tapeworms, heartworm are just some of the adverse effects of untreated parasite problems.

Use natural and herbal products for your dog. A mild shampoo is recommended to avoid skin dryness and a dull coat of hair. Brush through your dog’s fur often to spot check for these fleas, “hot spots”, small stones, wounds and tumors. Mix essential oils (lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, etc.) with water and spray it all over your dog’s fur to repel mosquitoes, insects and fleas.

Exercise is another very essential aspect of dog health care. When you exercise your dog, you are helping him maintain his ideal weight which is important in preventing canine sicknesses. Obesity has been known to accelerate canine arthritis and heart problems in dogs. Take him out for a light jog, swim, or walks around the block for a few minutes every day.

Bring your dog to a vet regularly for check-ups. I highly suggest that you find a vet knowledgeable in holistic and natural remedies. Appropriating the healing properties from plants and herbs are significantly better than using drugs for treatment. Regular health-checks will help impede the progression of canine diseases.

You have tips to make your dog healthy—now spend quality time with him to make him happy. Celebrate each other’s company. When you do, you have just uncovered the secret of happy healthy dogs. Enjoy!

Dog Needs

Discover Great Arthritis Pain Relief For Dogs

Jemma Reynolds — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:50:14 +0000

Many dogs suffer from canine arthritis when they get older. This is especially true if they are obese or overweight because more pressure is placed upon the already worm joints and muscles. Arthritis (the same for humans and canines) is a debilitating and oftentimes, progressive disease that can be very painful for the poor animal. Discover a good arthritis pain relief for dogs when you read on this article today.

Sometimes, young dogs contract arthritis due to some sustained injury but more often than not, it’s the senior dogs that develop this disease. When the latter is the case, then there is very little that can be done to completely cure the disease. You can, however, manage it so that your pet can still enjoy a good quality of life and a relatively healthy day to day existence.

There are several prescription drugs that are available to help the arthritic dogs. Usually, vets will prescribe NSAIDs or non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs to alleviate the pain that arthritis causes. These are excellent remedies but you should also look into giving your dog a holistic and natural treatment to help him deal with his condition. Chondroitin Sulphate and Glucosamine Sulphate specifically impede joint regression and furthermore, increase lubrication which greatly lessens the arthritic dog’s pain.

Of course, while the abovementioned remedies are effective, it should be your priority to take preventative measures to secure your pet from this degenerative disease before it even happens. One of the best ways to do that is through a good and nutritious diet.

Omega fatty acids (fish oils) is known to help reduce the chances of dogs to develop arthritis—it has other very helpful health benefits as well. Give him fresh fruits rich in vitamin C because this will help boosting the dog’s immune system, which in effect, aids in delaying the deterioration of the animal’s joints.

Also, do not forget to let your pet exercise regularly. This is very important because doing so will help him maintain his ideal weight. Remember, a heavy dog is more susceptible to canine diseases—one of which is arthritis. Exercise also increases joint lubrication which as we know, is very helpful in decreasing discomfort brought upon by joint inflammation.

So what are the signs that your dog has arthritis? Dog knee arthritis is one of the most common conditions so expect that your dog seems to favor a limb, or shifts his weight often. It will be difficult for him to change positions (from sitting to standing to kneeling) and move around. He will be less active and will hesitate from being touched or petted. Other symptoms may include weight gain and lethargy. If you see these signs manifesting, bring him to the vet for a more accurate diagnosis.

While this is not a great condition to find your dog is, be assured that there is a safe and effective arthritis pain in relief in dogs that you can use for him. Take care of him the best way that you can and enjoy quality time with him as much as you can.