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  • Help! My Dog Ate Chocolate!

    Help! My Dog Ate Chocolate!

    We all know that the only time we should use the words chocolate and dog in the same sentence is when we use them to identify a “Chocolate Lab.” Chocolate, although a delicious treat for humans, is a never something that a dog should eat. The reason is because chocolate contains theobromine, a caffeinelike molecule that increases blood flow to the brain. This is highly toxic for dogs and could lead to poisoning. Although most dogs do not eat enough chocolate to die, many will consume enough that can make them very ill.

    Physical Signs/Symptoms that Your Dog Ate Chocolate

    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Anxiousness
    • Increased thirst
    • Moderate Symptoms
    • Wobbliness when walking
    • Increased thirst
    • Heavy panting
    • Restlessness
    • Bluish Tongue
    • Excessive urination
    • In severe cases, symptoms can include:
    • Racing heart rate / fast pulse
    • Muscle tremors
    • Seizures
    • Heart failure

    What to Do if You Believe Your Dog Ate Chocolate

    Act fast! Try to locate the packaging from the chocolate that your dog ate. This will help you to determine what type of chocolate and how much. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more dangerous it is to dogs. Baking chocolate and gourmet dark chocolate are highly concentrated and contain 130-450 mg of theobromine per ounce. Common milk chocolate only contains about 44-58 mg/ounce. In either instance, this is not something to sit back on. It is always recommended that you immediately notify your veterinarian for professional advice and guidance if you believe your dog consumed chocolate.

    Are All Chocolates the Same?

    Although no chocolate is good for your dog, some types are worse than others. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous type of chocolate for your dog to eat. It only takes about 0.2 ounces per pound of dark chocolate to cause health issues. Milk chocolate has less theobromine and caffeine than dark chocolate. White chocolate has the least theobromine and caffeine. A good rule of thumb is that it takes about 0.5 ounces of milk chocolate per pound of body weight to cause moderate symptoms.

    How Long Until Symptoms Appear?

    The symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dogs are usually observed between three and twelve hours of consumption. Despite this, it is never advised to wait and see if your dog begins to get sick before taking action. The moment you realize this is the moments that you need to do something!

    Best Way to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Chocolate

    Keep it out of reach! Most dogs get into chocolate that is unintentionally left out. It can be a bowl of chocolate candy left in a dish on the counter, chocolate cake left on the table or even a piece of chocolate laying on the sidewalk that was dropped by someone else. It is very important to be mindful and observant of what your dog is chewing on and eating both indoors and outdoors. Very often many of us will leave something out without giving it thought which allows for the perfect opportunity for our fur-legged friends to snatch it. It should also be noted that the time of the year also increases the chances of your dog consuming chocolate. Months such as October (Halloween) and December (Christmas), when candy is more plentiful around the home increase this risk. Teaching children this from an early age is also a good way to prevent your dog from eating chocolate.

    Children are often more sympathetic to sneaking a treat to their begging fur-legged friend and should understand this is definitely not good to do.

    Another Consideration

    Although we know that chocolate is bad for our dogs, we must also realize many chocolate candies contain more than just chocolate. So, if the chocolate your pup ate didn’t make him sick, the fruit (raisin) or nut (macadamia) the chocolate covered can.

  • What Dog Food Ingredients Should You Avoid?

    What Dog Food Ingredients Should You Avoid?

    You are what you eat. And that expression applies to our fur-legged friends too. Some dog food brands skimp out on the actual healthy ingredients (chicken, beef, etc.) and replace these proteins with fillers. Fillers do not add much nutritional value to what they are eating and, overall are not recommended. Current research is bringing to light that many of these unhealthy ingredients can trigger allergies in your dog as well.

    What Ingredients Should You Avoid?

    Butylated Hydroxyanisole, also known as BHA, is a chemical preservative found in many dog foods and treats. It is used to preserve fats and oils. The CDC lists this ingredient as a known carcinogen that has negative effects on the liver and kidneys of animals. Some countries actually banned this substance due to this. Although the effects might not be noticeable in small quantities, over a long period of time, feeding your dog food that has BHA in it can contribute to health issues.

    White Flour

    White flour is usually used as a filler and binding agent in dog food. It is a bleached flour that contains little to no nutritional value. White flour has even proven to cause spikes in blood sugar. This means it may make your dog feel full, but not for a sustained period.

    Unspecified Meat or “Meat Meal” With “unspecified” meat in your dog’s food, what it is can be a mystery and risky. These meat meals are usually low quality, leftover meats with minimal regulation and or control of quality. Although these products are in many dog foods, try to avoid them. At the very least, pick a dog food where the specific type of meat is listed.

    Artificial Colors and Flavorings

    Artificial coloring and flavors are added to dog foods to create a more appealing appearance and smell. They are usually listed specifically, and the most commonly found dyes in dog foods are Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 5 and 6. These artificial ingredients are simply unnecessary and have been linked to hyperactivity, hypersensitivity, and allergic reactions to foods.

    MSG

    MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is not usually listed on pet food ingredient lists. It is more often found in autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed protein, calcium caseinate, protein isolate, texturized protein, natural flavors, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extracts, soy extracts or concentrate, sodium caseinate, monopotassium glutamate, glutamate or glutamic acid, or disodium inosinate or guanylate. These ingredients are used to enhance the flavor of dog food but are not necessary.

    Corn Syrup

    Corn syrup is a concentrated sweetener that is derived from corn. It is inexpensive to produce and is often added to processed dog foods to add flavor without costing a lot of money. Corn syrup, like white flour, causes your dog’s blood sugar to spike, which is not healthy and known to cause health issues down the road.

    Farmed Salmon

    Farmed salmon refers to salmon that is grown inland in artificial habitats. These are not fish in the actual ocean, have never seen or been in the ocean, and are grown specifically to be harvested for food. If they are found in your dog’s food, they will be simply listed as salmon, salmon meal, or salmon oil. If the salmon in your dog’s food is wild-caught, it will be listed as so. Farmed salmon is not nearly as nutritious as wild-caught salmon.

    Nitrates

    Nitrates, more specifically sodium nitrite, is a common preservative found in dog foods. It is used to preserve meat products. This preservative, although currently deemed safe to be used in dog food, has been linked to a blood disorder called methemoglobin as well as cancer.

    STPP

    STPP, or sodium tripolyphosphate, is a common ingredient in laundry detergent that softens the water. In dog food, it is used as a preservative. Since it is an actual chemical that does not contain any nutritional value, it is best to avoid it in your dog’s food. Taking the time to shop for quality dog food will yield a better long-term health outlook for your dog. Just because an ingredient is approved for use in dog food does not always mean you should use it. Natural ingredients are always recommended and should be looked for.

  • Puppy Accidents and How to Clean Them

    Puppy Accidents and How to Clean Them

    Accidents happen… All puppies, from time to time, don’t make it outside before they do their business. If your puppy, like most, has an accident indoors, don’t overstress. It is important, though, to realize that indoor puppy accidents can cause your carpet and furniture to smell or even be destroyed. The key is to cleanse the area as soon as possible. This is important for two reasons. The first is because the waste left on the carpet or furniture can absorb into the fibers which makes removing the odor very difficult. The second is because once these odors remain, regardless of how slight, your four-legged friend may return to the same area and relieve himself there again.

    How to Prevent Indoor Accidents

    Being consistent with your puppy’s potty-training routine is key. Also, providing your puppy with ample outdoor potty time is essential. For those who work all day, considering a daytime pet sitter to stop over and allow your puppy a potty break also will help the issue. Using positive reinforcement is always more effective than using discipline in this process.

    How to Get Urine Odors Out of a Carpet

    Dog urine gets absorbed into the carpet as an acid that causes damage to the carpet’s fibers. Upon the urine drying up, it results in an alkaline residue. If urine salts are not cleaned with a professional pet cleaning product, this may result in a foul urine smell building up over time. Absorbing the wet urine with a dry rag, followed by washing the infected area, will help to remove the urine and smell. At times, this process may need to be completed two or more times.

    How to Get the Urine Smell Out of a Couch?

    If your pup had an accident on your couch, professional cleaning products should be used to cleanse the area. After the couch is cleansed, keep your puppy away from it until the area is complete and the odor is completely gone. Dogs tend to remark the same spot over and over and detect this area by smelling where they previously went.

    At Home Cleaning Products

    Did you know that you can naturally clean pet stains and odors using commonly found items in your pantry? Ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, vodka, orange, lemon, and salt to clean pet urine work well. You can neutralize and clean surfaces by using a combination of these products. The issue with using a synthetic cleaner on a carpet is that it can damage and remove its color and add unnecessary toxic chemicals to your home. By utilizing more natural ingredients, especially things like enzymatic cleaners with essential oils, pet owners can keep their homes safe from the buildup of harmful fumes and chemicals that can make their pets sick.

    Before Using Any Cleaning Product

    Before applying any cleaning solution, you should always test it on a small area of your rug or furniture to ensure it won’t do any damage. Once the ingredients demonstrate that they are working and not causing damage, be sure to cleanse the area with a copious amount of the product and thoroughly scrub the infected area. Dog urine can be very difficult to clean fully and, if not removed, can cause more issues down the road. Regardless of what products you use, all puppy owners need to remember that their puppies are still learning and want to make you happy. Being patient, using positive reinforcement, and taking the time to train your four-legged friend right will yield positive long-term results.

  • Can Dogs Smell Cancer?

    Can Dogs Smell Cancer?

    Dogs have helped humans out over hundreds of years. From rescuing people, to tracking missing persons, to detecting bombs, to herding sheep. One of the most amazing abilities that dogs are also known for is their ability to detect certain types of cancers in people. Recent studies have confirmed that certain trained dogs may be able to detect cancer in people about 40% of the time. Although this is very far from being perfected, it does go to show just how amazing dogs are.

    How do Dogs Detect this?

    Dogs have an incredible sense of smell. Our fur-legged friends have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their nose. To compare, the average person only has about six million olfactory receptors, making a dog’s nose forty times more sensitive than our noses! This is why dogs are commonly used in search and rescue missions, as they can trace a human scent for miles. When a dog smells, it actually smells in 3D. Their nose has been an amazing tool for their survival for thousands of years and continues to be their number one sense.

    Do All Dogs Smell Cancer?

    Untrained dogs do not have the ability to recognize cancer. Dogs that have this ability require a lot of training and testing. Currently, dogs that are trained to detect cancer are only being trained in a trial process. There is still much more research that needs to be completed before dogs can be used as a medically reliable detection source.

    Will Doctors Use Eventually Dogs to Detect Cancer?

    It is very unlikely that a dog will be used as the only way to detect cancer, especially with all of the modern technology that exists today. It has not been fully determined whether dogs can be reliably trained to smell cancer at this point in time. At least not on a consistent basis. Proving that this method of cancer detection is accurate enough to use very well could be many years away, if ever. Even if we do reach the point where a dog can accurately detect cancer, it would be very difficult to train a dog to communicate what they have smelled without further testing being administered. 

    What Types of Cancer do Dogs Pick Up On?

    • Breast cancer and lung cancer can at times be detected by sniffing the breath of patients. In these studies, it is thought that the dogs sensed biochemical differences in the exhalation of subjects with diagnosed cancer and subjects with no known cancer.
    • Bladder cancer and prostate cancer are also forms of cancer that certain dogs can pick up on, by sniffing the urine of patients.
    • Colorectal cancer has been detected by dogs too, by sniffing patients’ exhaled breathing and their stool samples.
    • Ovarian tumors can be hit on, by sniffing patient tumor samples and blood samples.
    • Cervical cancer is also a type of cancer that a dog is capable of finding, by sniffing patient biopsy samples.

    Although this type of cancer detection is a long way from being fully trusted, it is just another example at how amazing dogs are. Hopefully one day our fur-legged friends will be able to detect diseased as well as they currently assist humans in various other things.

  • Separation Anxiety in Dogs

    Separation Anxiety in Dogs

    Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety experience tension, stress, mental discomfort, and confusion. This anxiety manifests when a dog feels insecure when left alone at home and is separated from its family. Like how a young child misses a parent, your pup misses you!

    Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

    There are different symptoms that dogs can experience from separation anxiety, from basic whining to very destructive behavior, such as chewing furniture and household fixtures. Below are common symptoms associated with separation anxiety:

    • Excessive panting and whining
    • Excessive drooling
    • Barking and crying 
    • Urinating or defecating indoors.
    • General destructive behavior
    • Excessive pacing

    How to Train a Dog that Suffers from Separation Anxiety

    The first step is to make sure your dog receives sufficient exercise. Outdoor playtime where your dog can run and enjoy the great outdoors is always a plus.  Dogs who are full of energy will not be content being left alone for hours at a time. Making sure your dog senses that you are calm before leaving will also help curb his nerves and mind. Dogs often sense when their owner is upset or anxious and tend to react in a similar fashion. Keep the goodbye talk and pat simple and easy. Be quick when doing it and make sure you do not look back after leaving. It is also suggested that you leave an old shirt or piece of clothing within his reach. Dogs tend to relax when they sense their owner and the scent on your shirt will have that. Before leaving your dog for hours at a time, consider leaving for thirty-to-sixty-minute intervals. This will allow your pup to gradually get used to being alone while building confidence that you will return. A great tip is also not triggering your dog to things they associate you do when you are leaving. Grabbing car keys, putting on your jacket in front of them, putting on your shoes, etc. The anticipation of this very well may get them unsettled before you even leave.

    Medications?

    Your veterinarian is able to evaluate the level of your dog’s separation anxiety and decide that prescribed medication may help. There are a variety of medications on the market that can be used to help calm you fur-legged friend down. Before allowing your dog to be put on medication for this, proper research should be done by yourself to identify the pro and cons. Many medications on the market will help this issue, but potential side effects can happen. Always do your own research before agreeing to use medication for this issue.

    Being Patient

    At the end of the day, being patient and working with your dog is what is most important. Your dog feels this way because he loves and misses you and wants you. Being anything but patient and caring and understanding would not be helping the situation out and only adding to the issue. Our fur-ever friend wants nothing but to feel your love and care and that is what we need to remember.

  • Type of Service Dogs

    Type of Service Dogs

    Service dogs are well-trained professional dogs that help to those who need them. Each service dog has a specific set of skills that require training and testing to master. Service dogs perform impressive tasks such as leading the blind, assisting with day-to-day tasks, and providing comfort and companionship. Actual service dogs are backed and protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

    Some of the most common services provided by service dogs include:

    • Guide Dogs
    • Autism Service Dogs
    • PTSD Service Dogs
    • Hearing Dogs
    • Medical Alert Dogs
    • Diabetic Alert Dogs
    • Seizure Response Dogs
    • Allergy Detection Dogs
    • Mobility Assistance Dogs
    • Medical Alert Dogs

    There are other types of service dogs, and if you have a condition that is not listed above, you may still be able to apply for a service dog.

    Common Breeds of Service Dogs

    Although service dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, the following list of dog breeds tends to be the most common. These breeds generally have very caring and outgoing demeanors with outstanding personalities. They also tend to train with ease and enjoy companionship. Most service dogs show little to no signs of aggression and have very warm and approachable demeanors.

    Labrador Retriever – A very smart and personable breed of dog that has a loving and outgoing personality.


    German Shepherd – A loyal and alert dog who enjoys the company of his family. This breed loves outdoor activity time.


    Golden Retriever – A loving and gentle breed of dog who is exceptional in all family shapes and sizes. This breed also does well with other pets in the home.


    Poodle – This breed is considered the most intelligent breed of dog in existence. They train with ease and enjoy and thrive off of human interaction.


    Bernese Mountain Dog – An alert and active dog that is known to quickly bond with his family. They train with ease and are eager to please.


    Great Dane – A large and loving dog that is known for its loyalty and caring personality. They tend to make great service dogs, especially for those who suffer from PTSD and anxiety.


    Saint Bernard – By nature, this breed is a service dog. They have a long history of helping mankind and generally have very protective and loyal personalities.


    Pomeranian – Small and lovable. This breed of dog does well in smaller homes. This breed is patient and caring and very loyal to its family. They specialize in a variety of service dog tasks.


    Boxer – This breed is alert and loyal and enjoys assisting his human counterpart. They are smart and agile dogs with great personalities.


    Border Collie – A very loving and caring dog that tends to stick by your side. This breed is also smart, which makes training easy. They are eager to please and tend to be happy when you are. They also tend to do well in households that have children.

    Is it Mandatory to Register Service Dogs?

    No. Registering a service dog is not required in the United States under law, but it is suggested. Doing so it will help to eliminate any confusion or restrictions you may run into in the future. Unfortunately, there has been a rise in fake service dogs, which is why it is essential to make sure you and your dog are adequately protected. Properly being registered will make things easier. Many private businesses have rules against non-service animals entering their establishment, which is a primary reason to have your service dog registered.

    Where Can You Register a Service Dog?

    There are a few organizations that offer service dog registration. These organizations will require that you describe your disability and or need, what tasks your dog is capable of offering, and the specific training your dog completed. These options include websites such as Service Dog Certification, United States Dog Registry, and USA Service Dog Registration.

    Service dogs have made a positive impact over the years and have validated the expression “man’s best friend.” Through proper training and care, the services that these amazing dogs are able to provide continue to get better and better. Doing the appropriate research before getting a service dog will help you find the best breed for your specific needs.

  • What are Roundworms in Dogs?

    What are Roundworms in Dogs?

    Roundworms are a parasite that can commonly affect house pets such as dogs and cats. There are two primary species of roundworms.

    The first is Toxocara Canis. This type of parasite can move around the body once they become mature.

    The second is Toxascaris Leonin. This type of parasite remains in the intestinal tract.

    Nevertheless, both of these types of roundworms do absorb the nutrients from your dog and need to be taken care of as soon as possible. Roundworms tend to look like long strands of thin spaghetti. These parasites commonly attach to the lining of your dog intestines.

    What are the Symptoms of Roundworms in Dogs?

    There are a variety of different signs and symptoms that you may see in a dog with roundworm infestation. The most common symptoms include:

    • Nutritional Deficiencies
    • Diarrhea
    • Cough
    • Dehydration
    • Lethargy / Low energy
    • Swelling in Abdomen (more common in puppies)
    • Pneumonia

    Should you notice any of these signs in your dog, contacting your veterinarian as soon as possible is highly recommended. Medical staff can examine your dog’s stool to see if there are roundworms in it.

    What are the Causes of Roundworm in Dogs?

    Dogs can contract roundworms several different ways. The most common ways include:

    • Eating or chewing soil that has roundworms in it.
    • Laying or walking on contaminated soil.
    • Hunting or retrieving animals that have roundworms.
    • Puppies generally contract roundworm through their mother’s breast milk.

    How to Diagnose Roundworms

    There are a few different ways that you can diagnose your dog with roundworms.

    These are:

    • Observing the roundworms in your dog’s stool.
    • Fecal test administered by your veterinarian.

    Basic Treatment for Roundworms in Dogs

    If your dog does contract roundworm, your veterinarian can prescribe your dog a dewormer which will help to rid these worms from your dog’s body. By keeping your dog’s area clean and preventing them from eating things that they should not eat, you can keep them from getting roundworms.

    Roundworms and Humans

    Roundworms do pose a significant risk to humans. Contact with contaminated soil or dog feces can result in human infection. Roundworm eggs may accumulate in significant numbers in the soil where pets deposit feces. Once infected, roundworms can cause eye, lung, heart and neurologic signs in people. This is just one of many reasons why cleaning up after your dog is important.

  • Dog Harnesses

    Dog Harnesses

    Are you considering making the transition from a basic dog collar to a dog harness? Many people have made the switch because a harness offers more control of over a dog which is especially important on outdoor walks. Harnesses also prevent neck discomfort that standard dog collars cause. Despite dog harnesses being the best choice for our fur-legged friends, they must fit your dog properly in order to be most beneficial. In this blog, we will explain the importance of proper harness sizing for pups and help you determine your dog’s accurate harness measurements.

    First, let’s review some of the primary benefits of a dog harness.

    Less pulling on walks: A dog harness is positioned along the dog’s back and chest, which makes it more difficult for a dog to take his owner for a walk instead of his owner taking him for a walk. Unlike a typical dog collar that allows a dog to securely plant his feet on the ground, gain traction, and pull forward, a harness gives the dog’s handler more control of their entire body. This will prevent a dog from taking over on the walk and allow his handler better control.

    Less pressure on the dog’s throat and neck: The design of a dog harness allows for the pressure points to be on his chest. This prevents your dog’s neck and throat area from being constricted, which is more comfortable and much safer than a standard dog collar. A dog harness is recommended even more so for dogs who suffer from disc conditions and arthritis.

    Much better control of your dog: Some dogs can slip out of standard dog collars, which only offer one point of security around their necks. It is improbable for your pup to accidentally slip out of a properly fitted dog harness, even if your dog is a master of escape.

    Basics Fitting a Dog Harness

    As great as a dog harness is, it is only effective when it properly fits your dog. The harness must be secure against a dog’s body and should not allow for any slipping or rubbing against the skin. Harnesses that are too tight may cause discomfort for your pup. Harnesses that are too loose on your pup increase the risk of them slipping out of it and running off. This is why assuring the harness is placed properly over your dog is key.

    The Two Finger Rule

    When determining if your dog’s new harness is right for them, you should always follow the two-finger rule. This means that you should be able to place two fingers snuggly under the harness when it is secured. More than two fingers mean the harness is too loose. Less than two fingers mean the harness is too tight. This amount of slack allows for comfortable movement for your dog while also preventing him to be able to escape it.

    Properly Measuring Your Dog for a Harness

    Pet supply stores generally have a sizing chart for each product sold. This chart will provide measurements and specifications of each dog harness for sale. Comparing this size chart to your dog’s size is very important.

    Measure Your Dog’s Neck Girth

    You can use a flexible plastic measuring tape to measure your dog’s neck. Measure the area around where a collar would typically be placed. Remember to use the two-finger rule in this measurement, as some slack is necessary. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

    Step 3: Measure Your Dog’s Chest Girth

    Next, you will measure your dog’s chest girth by using the same measuring tape and measuring the widest portion of your dog’s rib cage. Be sure you measure around completely, with the end of the tape coming together on the top of the dog’s back. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

    Step 4: Measure Your Dog’s Body Length

    The last area measurement needed is your dog’s body length. Using the same measuring tape, measure your dog from his neck to the base of his tail. Certain dog harnesses require this measurement which is good to have just in case. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

    After taking these measurements and writing them down, you will be able to compare them with the sizing chart for your harness of choice. It is also recommended to talk to staff at the pet supply store who can address any questions or concerns you may have before buying the harness.

    Getting Adjusted to Using a Dog Harness

    Getting adjusted to using a dog harness (for you and your pup) is generally an easy transition. Many dog owners find that once they start using a harness for their dogs, daily walks become easier and more enjoyable. Taking the time to find the proper dog harness will yield years of safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable walks.

  • Black Widows and Dogs

    Black Widows and Dogs

    We often associate our fur-legged friends being bit by ticks and fleas. These pesky creatures are known for their persistency and potential health risks. Ticks and fleas are parasitic insects that require hosts to complete their life cycle. In contrast, spiders, such as the Black Widow, are not parasitic, meaning that they do not require a dog or cat to live off of. Although many spiders would prefer to hide from other animals, there may be situations when this does not happen and a spider bite occurs. Generally, almost all spiders inject venom into their bites. For the majority of spiders, the amount of venom that is injected is very small and not lethal to your dog. For Black Widow spiders, however, even the tiniest amount of their venom can cause life threatening health problems.

    What happens when a dog gets bitten by a black widow spider and what are the common symptoms?

    Black Widow spider venom contains a neurotoxin that can cause clinical signs related to the nervous system. It excites the dog’s neurons and can lead to tremors and or painful muscle twitching. Their bites can also cause severe muscle cramping and very stiff abdominal muscles. Excitation of the nervous system can lead to an elevated respiratory rate as well as an elevated heart rate. In severe cases, seizures, paralysis, and respiratory arrest can occur. Vomiting and diarrhea are among the most common initial symptoms. Excessive drooling and nausea are also common. Pain and swelling around the bite area is also a routine symptom. This can be very painful for your dog and needs to be treated right away.

    Areas to avoid

    Black Widows tend to hide in dark and secluded areas. A woodpile, under an old piece of furniture in the garage, and cluttered areas where they have a sense of protection are some of the most common places. Although these spiders are not generally aggressive, they certainly are dangerous. They tend to go on the attack when they feel that they are at risk. By keeping your dog away from areas such as this will limit his chances of being bit by a Black Widow spider.

    What time of year are Black Widow spiders most active and what states are they found in?

    Black Widow spiders emerge in early spring when mating occurs through early summer. Young spiderlings continue to grow into adults during the spring and summer and mature by late summer. Adult widows are most prevalent during late summer and fall. In the US, they are found in all the four southwestern deserts (Great Basin, Sonoran, Chihuahuan, and Mojave). They can also be found in Florida and Texas.

    What to do if your dog has been bitten by a black widow spider?

    Although many spider bites are not witnessed, watching for spider bite symptoms will help protect your dog from possible serious health issues. If your dog has acute swelling noted in a particular part of his body, a fever, and is lethargic, there is a good possibility he was bitten. Contacting your veterinarian immediately to report this is very important as time is a factor. An antivenin is available for Black Widow spider bites which can help to reverse the effects of the bite. Intravenous fluids may also be provided for extra support, and muscle relaxer medications can be administered to help with your dog’s muscle twitching and tension. They key is to identify the symptoms and notify your veterinarian as soon as possible.

  • Best Apartment Dog Breeds

    Best Apartment Dog Breeds

    Small living quarters does not mean having a dog is off limits. Generally speaking, larger dog breeds such as a German Shepherd or Husky do better with more spacious living areas, however, there are plenty of dogs that need less room to be comfortable. Seventeen percent of Americans live in an apartment or condominium style home and out of that percentage, approximately 70% of those individuals have a pet. They key is knowing which dog breed best adapts to a smaller living area.

    Where to Start

    The first item you want to consider if you want a dog and live in an apartment is the dog’s size. It is recommended in most cases that apartment dogs fall within the small to medium sized breeds. Larger dogs often need more room to roam and rest in. Dogs weighing in 55 pounds and less that stand under fifteen inches tall tend to do best in apartments.

    Overly Energetic Dogs

    Some dog breeds by nature are very energetic and enjoy running and jumping. Although there is nothing wrong with this, this type of physical activity is best done in homes that have ample room. Many apartments have smaller rooms which could be an issue if your pup decides to go into sprint mode. Finding a dog breed that has a calm baseline is important.

    Don’t Forget About the Neighbors

    Many apartments have noise and nuisance regulations. A barking dog can easily disturb the peace and cause issues. Finding a dog breed that is not alarmed easily nor prone to excessive barking is important. Some dog breeds tend to bark when bored which makes finding a low-key pup important for those living in apartments.

    Destructive Behavior

    Although most dogs are not destructive, some, when bored or lonely act out for attention. A chewed sock is one thing, but actual damage to parts of the home is another. Finding a dog breed that trains easily and is not known for chewing on house fixtures and or damaging property is important no matter where you live. Damaged interior or exterior property may cost you your security deposit.

    Outdoor Activity Time Is a Must

    All dogs require outdoor activity time. This is not only good for their physical health, but mental wellbeing. Certain dog breeds do require a significant more amount of outdoor time which may be difficult to have if living in an apartment complex. If your apartment complex has a dog run or designated area for pet activity time this will allow for a slightly more energetic dog to happily exist. Some apartments that have only the basics (sidewalk and small lawn area) should only house dogs that require minimal outdoor time.

    Manners Are Important  

    Low to non-aggressive dogs should be considered for families that live in apartments. You need to remember that many other neighbors within the apartment complex will have dogs and everyone’s safety is crucial. Finding a dog breed that is not only docile but easy to get along with is important because your pup will have interaction with other dogs in the complex. Bringing home a territorial dog breed will be more challenging since many territorial dogs will want to be the top dog.

    Top Five Apartment Dog Breeds

    1: Bichon Frise

    This hypoallergenic and gentle dog gets along with just about anyone or anything. They train quickly and tend to get along well with other dogs. They also have warm demeanors and easy-going personalities. Both males and females of this breed stand about 12 inches tall and weigh from seven to fifteen pounds.

    2: Pug

    Although a little energetic, the Pug is a gentle and relaxed dog breed. They do enjoy outdoor activity time but also find comfort in smaller and contained living quarters. This breed of dog stands ten to twelve inches tall and weighs between ten and twenty pounds. They are not aggressive and get along with other dogs well.

    3: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    A true lap dog. This breed enjoys a lot of one-on-one personal time with his family. They are not known to excessively bark and train with ease. They do not require an excessive amount of outdoor playtime and tend to be very social dogs who enjoy interaction with other dogs. This breed of dog generally stands between twelve and fourteen inches tall and weighs about twenty pounds.

    4: Bulldog

    The Bulldog is a strong and stocky dog but a very laidback dog. They are just as happy taking a nap inside of the home as they are walking through the park. They do not bark excessively, are not aggressive, and have very easy to get along with temperaments. They tend to adapt well to smaller living spaces and do just fine in apartments. This breed of dog stands between ten and fifteen inches tall and weighs about fifty pounds.

    5: Shih Tzu

    Shih Tzus have a very long and well-liked reputation. They are very friendly dogs who do well inside apartments. This breed is very friendly and outgoing and does not require excessive amounts of outdoor activity time. They also are not known to bark a lot and thanks to their gentle and warm demeanor are not known to be destructive. The Shih Tzu is classified in the toy group with a height of eight to twelve inches tall and weight of nine to twenty pounds.