It’s a new year and many people are rushing to the gym or starting a new diet to shed some pounds.  Many people start January off with some health goals but it is not just humans who sometimes need to buckle down and lose a few pounds; your dog may need to also.  Humans aren’t the only ones who have an obesity problem, dogs do too. If your dog packed on a few extra holiday pounds (or has been overweight for some time) it may be time to set some doggy-health goals for the New Year.

Whether your vet has mentioned it before or you have just noticed that your dog is looking a little chubbier, you may be trying to help your dog start out the year on a healthier note.  If your dog is overweight it is important to help your dog shed those extra pounds because the longer your dog goes with extra weight, the more damage it may cause to their health.  In fact, it is unfortunate but if your dog is overweight it may even shorten their lifespan.  Dogs who are overweight are more susceptible to things like heart disease, diabetes, cancer and more so it is best to help your dog lose weight as soon as possible.

First thing is first, take a look at what your dog is eating.  If you are mostly feeding your dog kibble or other dog-specific food, consider if you can cut back a little in portion size.  Some dogs have trouble with overeating – they may just keep going if it is available to them.  By cutting back slightly in portion size your dog may not notice at all but it may make a good dent in their weight.  Next, are you feeding your dog a lot of table scraps?  Some things like lean meats or other low calories dog-friendly food are ok but make sure you aren’t giving your dog high calorie/high fat human food.  Additionally, there are reduced-calorie dog foods available at most pet stores for those dogs who need a little extra help trimming down.

Next, if you tend to give your dog a lot of treats and snacks as a reward for good behavior; consider switching your method of reward.  Rather than using food as a reward, it may be better to use fun and loving interaction as a reward.  Spend some quality time with your dog, go for a walk, play fetch, do whatever your dog enjoys and bonus points if it is physical because that will help with weight loss as well.

Speaking of exercise, if your dog does not get much of it, add a daily walk into your routine.  Start slow if your dog is particularly overweight – just do a 10 minute vigorous walk – and then gradually build to longer walks.  Work up to two 15 minute activities that are strenuous exercise for your dog for optimal health.  If you are not able to walk or have limited mobility, a game of fetch for 15 minutes can be just as strenuous as walking.  Remember, you have to walk before you can run so start slow and work up to more activity and soon you will see a healthier, more energetic dog emerge.

Have you left the home only to realize that you are covered in your pet’s fur?  Are you nervous to allow your guests to sit on the couch for fear that they will get coated in dog hair?  Do you see little clumps of fur in every corner of the house?  While shedding is natural, normal and healthy, it can be incredibly frustrating.  Managing shedding and reducing dog hair throughout your home (and on your clothes) can feel like a never ending battle.  Fortunately, it does not have to be thanks to a myriad of modern inventions that are prepared for the task.  Below we list 5 products that will help you manage your pet’s shedding and reduce pet hair in your home for good!

1. Brush and Use the Deshedder
   • Most pet owners know that brushing their dog consistently is important for a variety of reasons. It can help remove excess hair, redistribute the oils on your dog’s scalp for a soft coat, make your dog look nice and is even a great bonding experience between you and your dog.  Beyond basic brushing there is a tool called a “deshedder” that is capable of removing some of the dog’s undercoat so that it reduces shedding.  A deshedder should not be used as a last resort because it will not work well on hair that is matted and tangled, still connected to your dog.  It works well with loose the loose undercoat that is already being shed to grab and remove.
2. Pick Up Mitt
   • A great tool when you want to quickly and efficiently run around to your furniture and remove dog hair is a pick up mitt, such as the Evercare Pet Hair Pic-Up Mitt. This handy mitt slides ride onto your hand and you can sweep your hand along furniture, clothing and more and it will easily attract and grab pet hair, even if you do not easily see the hair!
3. Fabric Sweepers
   • The Scotch Fur Fighter Hair Remover is a handheld tool that is ideal for fabric upholstered furniture. It works similarly to the mitt but is a handheld option with attachable/refillable sheets that remove pet hair and dander.
4. Animal Vacuum
   • There are many vacuums on the market designed specifically for animal hair but what seems to be the most popular is the Dyson Animal Upright Vacuum. Animal vacuums have powerful suction and specialized tools designed specifically to be more effective for pet hair removal.

Have you ever leaned in for a hug or smooch from your beloved dog and been startled by their bad breath?  If so, you are not alone!  Just because dogs are animals does not mean they do not need proper dental care.  In fact, routine and consistent dental care, such as brushing can preserve dental health and even protect overall health! Don’t worry; your dog’s breath does not have to be constantly minty fresh!  But, if it smells particularly bad it is probably time to start getting consistent with dental care.  And, if you have a new puppy, start now so that they will be used to routine dental care and will happily comply as they grow older.

First, it is important to note that if your dog has bad breath and it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or loss of appetite you should take your dog to the veterinarian as the symptoms could be more than simply poor dental health.  But, if your dog just has some foul-smelling breath and is otherwise healthy you can probably make some improvements in the dental health department.  If you do not already have a canine toothbrush kit, getting one is a great place to start.  It is important to emphasize that you should invest in a canine kit because dogs should not use human toothpaste because it can upset their stomach.  Additionally, canine toothbrushes are designed specifically for a dog’s mouth and there is even canine mouthwash available.  Introduce the toothbrush slowly – a few times each week you can gently rub your dog’s gums and teeth with your finger or a toothbrush to get them used to the idea and procedure.  Once they are used to that, you can begin to introduce toothpaste.  Make it a gentle and relaxing process so that it is not stressful for you or you dog and so that you can take your time and do an optimal job brushing their teeth.

Fortunately, dogs rarely get cavities but they do often get tartar buildup on their teeth.  Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis and inflamed/painful gums.  While dogs cannot care for their teeth themselves by brushing, there are things they can chew on that will help improve their dental health. There are special bones and other chew toys designed specifically to help clean teeth and gums while your dog gets to enjoy a special treat. WebMD points out that research supports the use of dog treats and chew toys to help improve dental health, “Dogs that chew actively have less plaque build-up. And some types of dog dental treats and diets can reduce plaque by nearly 70%. How do they do this? Simply the mechanical action of chewing can make a difference. In one study, increasing the diameter of kibble by 50% led to a 42% reduction in tartar. In the same study, coating the products with a substance called polyphosphate further reduced tartar by 55%. It prevents plaque from turning into tartar by isolating calcium on teeth.”  If you are uncertain where to begin, consult your veterinarian who will be able to offer dental health guidance specific to your dog and your lifestyle.

As pet owners, we often focus on what “human” foods our dogs should not eat.  We vigilantly avoid giving them things like chocolate or pecans that can make them seriously ill, we sometimes forget that there are many human foods that are actually good for our dogs.  Many store-bought dry dog foods lack certain vitamins and minerals that real food can provide.  So whether you decide to share some “ok” foods off your plate as an occasional treat, or you decide to prepare fresh food for your dog on a regular basis, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are giving your dog food that is good for them.

1. Peanut Butter
   • It is not just humans that find peanut butter delicious, dogs do too! It is a great source of fat and protein but just do not overdue it.  You can give your dog a little peanut butter as a treat each day.  If you want to use it to occupy and entertain your dog, consider stuffing it inside a Kong toy and letting them work to get it out while enjoying their treat.
2. Meat
   • Chicken, turkey, and beef, whether ground or cut into small pieces can make a delicious meal for your dog. Mix it in with some vegetables or rice and you have a great, well-i
3. Cheese
   • Small amounts of cheese can be another good source of fat and protein that your dog will enjoy. Any kind of cheese is ok but cottage cheese is a great option because it is low in fat but high in protein.
4. Fish
   • Any kind of fish is high in vitamins and is a great, lean source of protein. Like meat, mix it with some rice and vegetables and your dog will enjoy a complete, well-rounded meal.
5. Yogurt
   • We aren’t talking about the sweetened, flavored yogurt, it needs to be plain, unsweetened yogurt. Plain yogurt is high in protein, calcium and digestive cultures that will support the health of your dog.
6. Pumpkin
   • Pumpkin is not just for your pies during the fall. Pumpkin is great for your dog because it is full of fiber and Vitamin A. Stick to plain pumpkin, not the kind that you have mixed with cinnamon and other spices though, because those spices could upset your dog’s stomach.
7. Eggs
   • Scrambled or hard-boiled, any eggs with whites that have been fully cooked are great for your dog. They are rich in protein and can even help with an upset stomach.

Just like humans, when a dog is disabled they need special care and assistance to accommodate their needs. This may vary significantly depending on the type of disability but when a dog is disabled it does not necessarily mean they just need extra love (though it never hurts!) it may mean they need special medications, assistive devices, respite care, special accommodations for dog boarding, etc.  A dog that has a disability should not be left to rescue facilities or put down, many can live a very full life when they receive the special care that they need.  Below are some tips to aid you in caring for your disabled dog.

• Assist Movement
  • Movement is critical to health so, as much as possible; it is a good idea for you to assist their movement. If your dog is missing a limb they can learn to walk without the limb.  If your dog is missing two or more limbs they may need an assistive device such as a wheelchair to help with mobility.  If your dog has mobility issues or is recovering from an injury and needs assistance getting up and down there are also lifting harnesses available to help your dog safely get into a standing position without causing you injury, which is particularly beneficial for those with larger dogs that are quite heavy.  Further, if your dog struggles with incontinence or other problems managing their bowel movements, there are also dog diapers to help you protect your home from damage and give your dog dignity.
• Weight Management
  • Disabled dogs can sometimes have difficulty managing their weight because they may be less mobile than other dogs, or have conditions in which managing their weight is challenging. If this is the case, it is important for you to carefully monitor their food intake and also consider investing in special dog food designed for weight management.  Additionally, weight can be managed by getting as much exercise as possible within your dog’s means.  And don’t forget, when it comes to feeding time, there are also specially designed feeding devices for disabled pets so that they can eat comfortably and safely.
• Keep Them Comfortable
  • There are a variety of dog beds and other assistive devices such as stairs and ramps that help keep your dog comfortable while accessing safe and relaxing places to lay down. There are special beds built on a platform that are designed to keep pets cool, there are beds designed for incontinent dogs that have easy-to-remove, washable pads, there are special orthopedic beds for dogs, and more!

If you are a dog owner, you have probably heard about heartworms and the importance of protecting dogs against them.  Heartworms are more concerning in certain climates and so they may be a bigger concern depending on where you live.  Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitos so, while a dog can get heartworm disease in any climate, they are at an increased risk if they live in humid locations where mosquitos are more prevalent.  Huffington Post explains what heartworm disease is and where it tends to be the biggest concern, “While it’s most common on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and along the Mississippi River and its tributaries, heartworm has been reported in all 50 states. It’s a parasite that spends part of its life cycle in a mosquito. One bite from an infected mosquito can transmit that parasite to your dog, where it develops further. Eventually, it grows into worms that can be up to a foot long, and which will infest your dog’s organs, particularly the heart and lungs… he mosquito is the only method of transmission, which is why mosquito abatement programs are so important, and why you should never have standing,stagnant water around your property.From the time of infection, it can be up to six months before your dog shows symptoms.”

Your veterinarian has likely already told you that it is a good idea to put your dog on a medication to prevent heartworms.  It is typically a simple chew that is given to your dog once per month and helps protect them from heartworms.  While you may think that if you live in a state with very little mosquito population that your dog is not at risk but heartworm disease has occurred in all 50 states.  Symptoms can be hard to spot but include tiredness, cough, difficulty breathing, anemia, fainting and more.  Heartworm disease is classified in three groups: Class 1 (asymptomatic), Class 2 (mild symptoms), Class 3 (severe symptoms).   For Classes 1 and 2 a dog may be hospitalized and given a medication to kill the heartworms but for more severe cases like Class 3, prolonged hospitalization and/or a surgical procedure to remove the heartworms may be necessary.  It is for this reason that preventive measures (such as medication and mosquito abatement) are critical for protecting your dog against heartworm disease.  Speak to your veterinarian about what medication and preventive measures are best for your dog and where you live.

If you have a dog you probably have a fear that they will get fleas.  Fleas are busy little insects, once your dog has them they pass easily to other pets or humans in the household.  You don’t want your dog to get fleas and you most certainly do not want to get them but, would you be able to detect fleas on your dog?  The earlier you catch them, the better, so it is important to know the signs.  But first, it is important to know who is more prone to getting fleas, which PetMD elaborates on, “Fleas and ticks pose more of a problem for dogs and cats in certain parts of the United States than in others. A climate where the environment is warmer and more humid allows populations of fleas and ticks to explode, causing serious health concerns for the cats, dogs, and humans in these locations.The distribution of certain tick and flea species varies depending on an area’s climate. Climates that experience colder winter seasons get some respite from dealing with ticks and fleas for a few months during the year, while hot, dry climates are less hospitable for fleas and ticks year round… Even if you live in an area of the U.S. that may not be known for having large numbers of fleas and ticks, your pet may still benefit from preventive medications. Your veterinarian can give you the best advice as to your pet’s risk for flea infestation or tick-borne diseases.”  Did you know that fleas can consume 15 times their own bodyweight in blood?  This is not only disgusting but concerning; it can mean that your dog or you may develop anemia.  Further, some dogs or humans can have allergic reactions to flea bites.  Because of these reasons, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of fleas so that, should you spot them, you can take your dog to the vet immediately and begin receiving treatment to rid your dog (and/or yourself) of fleas.

• Itching, scratching or chewing coat (tends to be excessive, not just an occasional scratch here and there)
• Hair loss (as a result of an allergic reaction to fleas or from frequent scratching/chewing)
• Flea dirt (small “pepper like” spots on skin, which is actually flea feces an dried blood)
• Pale gums (a common sign of anemia)
• Flea eggs (on dog or where dog commonly lays or sleeps)

We all love our four-legged friends and sometimes we may even think we can hear them talking to us but, unfortunately, they cannot speak to us.  This means that even if they are feeling unwell they cannot communicate their discomfort or pain with words.  With a careful eye and knowledge, we can learn signs and symptoms of pain or discomfort to watch for in our dogs so that we can know if they are unwell and better determine if they need treatment.  Below are 5 signs your dog is not feeling well.

1. Loss of Appetite / Weight Loss
   • Much like you may not feel like eating when you are sick, dogs experience the same aversion. If your dog suddenly, and without cause (such as disruption to schedule or some other event), starts ignoring their food, or downright refusing it, they may be experiencing some sort of gastrointestinal upset or other illness.
2. Lethargy
   • Every dog has a different energy level so not all dogs should be expected to be boisterous, rowdy puppies all day long. But, whatever your dog’s normal activity level is, if they suddenly become lethargic – lying around all day, not lifting their head up to see who has entered a room, or sleeping far more than normal, it may be cause for concern.
3. Change in Mood or Attitude
   • Is your dog typically a happy-go-lucky pup? Or a mild-mannered companion?  If your dog suddenly becomes aggressive, angry, or short-tempered it may not be because you have slighted them in some way, it may be because they are in some sort of physical pain.  If they are in pain and being moved, played with or jostled in any way, they may become aggressive to protect themselves and reduce their pain.
4. Change in Bowel Movements
   • You may not want to examine your dog’s stool but it is an important indicator of your dog’s overall health. If your dog’s stool becomes loose or dry, it could be an indicator that your dog is experiencing a gastrointestinal upset or problem.  If problems persist for more than 24 hours, it is time to visit the vet.
5. Coughing, Sneezing or Panting
   • All dogs cough, sneeze or pant from time to time but it should not be more than a few times in a row and then done, and it is typically brought on by something like running around. If your dog suddenly starts coughing, sneezing or panting it could be the result of respiratory distress from a variety of causes such as bronchitis, pneumonia, heart failure, an obstruction or more.

Nobody wants to take their medicine.  Kids are notorious for fighting taking their medicine and, just like kids, dogs are not exactly eager to swallow a pill or liquid medication.  But, unlike kids, you cannot exactly bribe or reason with a dog.  When your dog needs to take their medication, do not panic, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get medicine in your pet without a hassle or fuss.

• Get Sneaky
  • Yes, one of the easiest ways to get medication in your dog is to get a little sneaky and put it in their food. Don’t just put it in their food bowl and hope they eat it, though.  Try putting it in a hot dog, wrap a piece of turkey around it, put it in some peanut butter or whatever else your dog might enjoy and watch to make sure it gets eaten.  If you think your dog will see through your sneaky means or eat around the pill, consider crushing it up and mixing it into some peanut butter or a small amount of other food so that they cannot eat around it. It is important to approve this method with your veterinarian to ensure it is ok to eat food with the medication but it is one of the tried-and-true methods that simply works.
• Toss the Pill in the Air
  • This is one of those tips you have to know your dog to use. If you know your dog is athletic and playful and likes to catch things in their mouth, then this trick is for you. Try tossing a small treat in the air first and get them excited.  Then, toss the pill in the air and they will catch it thinking it is simply another treat coming.  Once the pill is down, consider following up with one more small treat in case your dog bit into the pill and has a bad taste in their mouth.
• Syringe
  • Syringes are great for dispensing liquid medication and there are even pill syringes that make administering pills far easier. Simply gently and calming hold your dog’s muzzle up towards the ceiling and put the tip of the syringe in the corner of your dog’s mouth and administer the liquid or pills, it should go right down and then you can give your dog a treat for being so well-behaved.

Whether your dog is a puppy or a senior citizen, all dogs need exercise.  Just like humans, the amount of exercise your dog needs will vary over time and by breed.  Your dog may love to be a lap dog or lounge around, but it is important to not forget that they also need to get up and get moving.

The health benefits of exercise are, again, similar to those humans experience.  Exercise can help maintain physical health and well as behavioral health or attitude. VetStreet points out that obesity is not just something that is plaguing humans but dogs as well, “Exercise isn’t just a nicety; it’s a necessity for maintaining optimal physical and mental well-being. As with people, obesity is becoming a major health problem in today’s dogs. Between 20 and 40 percent of all dogs seen by veterinarians in the United States are considered overweight, and many are clinically obese. Obesity prevents dogs from enjoying many physical activities; it also decreases speed and stamina and makes it more difficult for dogs to deal with heat. Obesity is also associated with certain medical problems, including arthritic changes in overly burdened joints, increased risk of torn ligaments, back problems, cardiac problems, difficulty breathing, increased surgical risks, skin problems, whelping problems and a possible increase in risk for some cancers.”

In addition to keeping your dog’s weight and physical health in check, exercise can significantly help improve behavior.  This is particularly true in young dogs or puppies that tend to be rambunctious.  When a dog is bouncing off the walls with energy they can become disruptive and destructive. This is not because they are an inherently “bad dog,” it is likely because they are so filled with energy that they do not know where to expend the energy or quite what to do with themselves.  All that pent up energy can lead to bad behavior if there is no physical outlet.  Exercise is the best outlet and the amount of exercise needed will vary depending on your dog’s size and age.  Large breed dogs tend to need more exercise – approximately 30-40 minutes of moderate – high intensity cardiovascular exercise.  Walking is great but considers throwing a ball or Frisbee so that your dog can run around at a higher pace.  Smaller breed dogs need approximately 20-30 minutes of walking or moderate-intensity exercise.  You can break up this exercise with a few different walks or exercises throughout the day.  With proper exercise, your dog will be a healthy and happy companion.