Below is a guide to understanding the causes of constipation, recognizing the symptoms, and treating your pet.

Causes of Dog Constipation

A variety of different factors can contribute to constipation in your pet. Some of the most common causes of dog constipation include:

• Blocked or abscessed anal sacks
• Dehydration
• Enlarged prostate
• Hernias
• Ingested dirt, grass, or debris
• Ingested hair from excessive grooming
• Insufficient exercise
• Recent surgery (meds used during procedure and surgery itself)
• Insufficient fiber in the diet
• Kidney disease
• Stress and physiological issues (a stressor in the environment that leads the dog to hold it)
• Side effects from medication
• Orthopedic disorders that make it difficult to squat
• Tumors or masses around the anus
• Spinal injuries and disease

Symptoms of Dog Constipation

If your dog has not defecated in two or more days, this is often a telltale sign that she is suffering from constipation. Additional constipation indications include straining, crouching, or whimpering while trying to defecate. Grass particles, string, or matted feces around the anal area may also be signs of constipation in your dog.

Treatment for Dog Constipation

If you notice any signs of constipation in your dog, you should visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet can determine the causes of your dog’s constipation and advise you on the best treatment method for your unique pet.

Common Treatments for Relieving Constipation

• Increasing your dog’s fiber intake by adding pumpkin, wheat bran, or fiber supplements
• Increasing exercise
• A dog laxative or stool softener
• An enema treatment (given by veterinarian)
• Medication that will strengthen the large intestine

At-Home Remedies to Relieve Constipation in Dogs

If your dog is experiencing constipation and you want to try some remedies at home before going to the vet, check out some options below.

Canned Dog Food

Mix your dog’s regular food with some canned food to help prevent an upset stomach. The canned food is softer, and the higher moisture will help balance the digestive system and form a softer stool.

Provide Fresh Water

Encourage your pup to drink plenty of water to ensure they stay hydrated. If they are refusing to drink water, please seek medical attention.

Pumpkin Puree

Talk to your vet before giving your pet pumpkin puree to make sure it’s the right solution for you. When you give your dog 100% pumpkin puree, they are ingesting extra fiber and moisture, which will help get their digestive tract in order. DO NOT use pumpkin pie filling! You don’t need to cook or warm up the puree. Simply give the treat right from the can. Your furry friend will love it.

Movement

Play a game of fetch or chase to get the body moving and prompt the bowels to make a healthy movement. Go for a long walk, do some running exercises, or do anything to get the body moving in a positive direction.

When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?

Sometimes it’s hard to know when to call the vet, and you want to avoid bothering them if it’s not an emergency. However, in your pet’s case, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Constipation should typically resolve within 48 hours if you’ve kept your dog hydrated, given plenty of exercises, and offered a balanced and nutritious diet. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pup is vomiting or showing signs of discomfort or pain. If you press on the abdomen and it is tense or painful for your furry friend, let your pet care provider know. If they can produce even small amounts of fecal matter, note what it looks like so you can inform the vet.

What Will My Veterinarian Do to Help My Dog?

Once you are at the vet’s office, they will complete a physical examination to determine what could be causing constipation. The doctor will check for foreign objects, tumors, or a distended colon. A distended colon (megacolon) is when waste inside the colon causes the colon to become abnormally enlarged and blocks the passage of feces and gas. Sometimes, your vet may need to order blood work, x-rays, or ultrasounds to make a prognosis on the cause of constipation. Once they have figured out the root of the issue, they will give a treatment plan that best suits your pup.

While constipation is natural in growing dogs, you can work to prevent it by helping your dog to get plenty of exercise, feeding her a healthy, fibrous diet, and ensuring she drinks plenty of water. If your dog is a male, neuter him at a young age to prevent prostate enlargement.

Boiled or canned pumpkin is a well-known supplement to help a dog’s digestive system. What other natural remedies have you tried successfully?

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Nail Clipping Tips

Are you worried about fleas and ticks? You’re not alone. Fleas and ticks are common problems for dogs, but you can help keep them under control. Here are some of the best ways to prevent fleas and ticks from making your pet miserable.

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is a vital part of the dog grooming process. This is particularly important because getting too long can cause health problems, such as torn nails and even broken toes.

For many people, though, the process can be intimidating, especially if their dog doesn’t like having its paws touched or held. There’s also the risk of injury by cutting too far down. But it doesn’t have to be a daunting process.

Tips on How to Clip Your Dog's Nails

Many dog owners are hesitant to clip their dog’s nails at home, but it is a relatively easy task with some practice. The most important thing is to make nail trimming a positive experience for your dog. Start slowly, letting them get used to the idea of you handling their feet. Once they are comfortable, follow these tips:

Touch Paws Often

As stated above, your first step should be getting your dog used to touching his feet. Without trimmers anywhere in sight, get your pup used to the sensation of having his legs and each toe touched. Associate the experience with affection or treats.

Start Young

If you trim your puppy’s nails starting at a young age, the dog will be better off in the future. The earlier you start this habit, the more your puppy will become accustomed to it.

Start Slow

Introduce the clippers in a relaxed way. Then just trim one toe, and it’s okay if it takes several days to finish them all at first.

Positive Reinforcement

Use positive reinforcement when clipping your dog’s nails, such as treats or petting them after their nails are trimmed.

Inspect Your Dog's Feet

Look for dirt and debris on the paw and between toes, and clean with a damp cloth to remove.

Keep the Fur on the Feet Trimmed

Grooming the paw fur can help prevent or reduce irritants, such as dirt, tar, rocks, and salt, which stick to your dog’s feet.

Cut the Tip at a Slight Angle

You want to look for the point where the nail begins to curve.

Avoid the Quick

This is the most nerve-wracking part of nail clipping for most dog owners. The quick is a vein in the nail, so if you cut it, your dog will bleed. For dogs with lighter-colored nails, you can see this pink area through the nail. But if your dog has darker nails, it can be harder to distinguish.

Keep Styptic Powder on Hand

Even professionals accidentally hit the quick on occasions, so keep your calm if it happens. Apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding.

Trim Often

Clip your dog’s nails regularly, ideally every two weeks, to keep them at a safe length.

Use an Emery Board After Clipping

Smooth those rough edges, and you’re done!

Use a Grooming Service

If you are too nervous about cutting your furry friend’s nails, consider using a professional dog groomer to accomplish the much-needed task.

Nail Clipping Tools

There are various options of dog nail clipping tools available on the market. You should choose a set that works for you and your dog. Many people have different preferences, so it is essential to try out many types of trimming tools before deciding on the perfect one. The most critical factor is usually comfort, followed by price and durability. You should also consider the size of your dog’s nails when choosing a set- some are better suited for larger nails, while others are good for smaller ones. Ultimately, the best set is the one you and your dog are both comfortable with.

Grinder Trimmers: grinds the nails down instead of cutting them.

Pros:

• Suitable for dogs of all sizes
• Cordless
• A safer and easier option than scissors or clippers
• Works on both thin and thick nails

Cons:

• More expensive than other options
• It takes longer to accomplish the task

Scissor Clippers: similar to human nail scissors, they work with the force of your hands to quickly trim the nail.

Pros:

• Comfortable handle
• Great for larger dogs
• Precise cuts

Cons:

• Nails can splinter
• Not a great choice for nervous dogs

Guillotine Clippers: has a hole that the nail is inserted into and then cut with a blade.

Pros:

• Features a nail guard to prevent slipping
• Simple to use
• Nails are less likely to splinter

Cons:

• Should only use with large dogs
• Use caution with this tool
• Does not make smooth cuts

What Happens if You Do Not Cut Your Dog's Nails

Nail care is more than just looking good. Unhealthy nails can cause pain and, in rare instances, trigger irreversible damage to your dog’s foot!

A dog’s nail is made up primarily of living pink tissue and hard outer material called the “shell.” The quick supplies blood to these nails, which can cause discomfort when they’re cut too short or injured. If you want your dog to have healthy nails and feet, they must be trimmed regularly. Overgrown quicks can cause pain in the animal’s limb, while short ones make maintenance easier for owners and pets!

Long nails are unsightly and reduce traction and pressure on the tendons, leading to deformed feet or even injured muscles! Some dogs will only need their nails cut once or twice per month because they wear them down naturally, but others may have more frequent trimming sessions.

Questions Commonly Asked About Dog Nail Trimming

How Long Should the Nail Be?

Your dog’s nails should not touch the ground when standing on level ground, and you shouldn’t hear any scraping or tapping.

What Is the Safest Tool to Use for Cutting My Dog's Nails?

There are plenty of tools available. The safest ones are either a grinder or a Dremel; these trimming tools file the nail down effectively and safely.

Do a Dog's Nails Really Need Cut?

Yes! If you notice your dog’s nails are getting too long, it can be uncomfortable to walk them, and they may even get hurt. Longer than usual nail beds affect how well a pup walks by distributing their weight correctly, which could lead to an injury.

Where Can I Purchase Nail Trimming Tools?

Your favorite pet supply store should carry a selection of tools for you to choose from. You can also purchase them on Amazon; just be sure to check out the reviews before you purchase and review the return policy.

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Brushing Tips

Dogs need to be brushed regularly to keep their coats healthy and free of mats and tangles. While this may seem like a hassle, you can easily do it with the right tools and techniques. Below we will share the best ways to brush your dog’s fur. So if you’re looking for information on keeping your dog’s coat healthy and looking its best, read on!

Check for Ticks as You Brush

You may notice the bugs themselves or tiny black dots.

Determine How Often You Need to Brush

Most short coats require weekly brushing, but longer coats may require daily attention.

For Smooth, Short Coats

Use a rubber brush, then a bristle brush, and then polish with a chamois cloth.

For Short, Dense Coats

Use a slicker brush to remove tangles, followed by a bristle brush.

For Long Coats

Use a slicker brush to remove tangles, and be very gentle when removing mats. Then follow it with a bristle brush.

Don’t Forget the Tail and Feet

Particularly for dogs with longer coats.

Bathing Tips

Are you one of those people who think dog bathing is a waste of time? If so, you’re not alone. Many pet owners believe dogs don’t need to be bathed as often as they should and most certainly don’t need all the fancy shampoos and conditioners available. But is this true? Take a look at some dog bathing tips that might make you change your mind.

Determine How Often Your Dog Needs a Bath

Depending on the weather and your dog’s recent activities, you may want to bathe your dog every one to three weeks.

Use a Dog Shampoo

Dog skin is different from humans, so you want to ensure the shampoo is mild enough to avoid irritation.

Start by Brushing

It will make the bathing process easier and more effective.

Use a Bath Mat

If your pup is in the tub, this helps prevent slipping.

Add Lukewarm Water

Be careful not to burn your dog or make it too cold, and only use about 3 to 4 inches in the tub.

Don’t Spray Directly in the Nose, Eyes, or Ears

A plastic cup or a spray hose can help you direct the water where you want it to go.

Rinse Well

One of the most common grooming mistakes is not properly removing all of the shampoo, leaving it on the skin to irritate your dog.

Check the Ears

Look in your pup’s ears. Do you notice any foul odors or a lot of debris? Consult your vet

Use a Low Heat Setting on the Blow Dryer

A dryer can effectively keep your dog from making everything in your house wet as he dries, but be careful not to burn your pup. You can also help keep it safe by not pointing it directly at your puppy but a little to the side.

Try a Bath Toy

If your dog is overexcited and mouthy during bath time, it may redirect some attention to something else.

Nail Trimming Tips

How often do you find yourself in a wrestling match with your dog over their nails? Or are they so tough that it is easier just to outsource the job of trimming them? If this sounds like something that would be painful for both parties involved, don’t worry! With our “dog-friendly” approach, we can make sure your furry friend comes away feeling pampered. If you want to make sure your dog’s nails don’t grow too long, it’s best not to trim them down into a stubby little nub. A more realistic goal (and one that can help prevent cutting) would be getting their nail length to just above where the floor meets the rug so they cannot scratch at anything.

Cut Carefully

What’s scarier than cutting a dog’s nails? Cutting blood vessels inside of them! It’s not pleasant for either party, but luckily, you can use some tricks to stop the bleeding if done accidentally. One idea would be using styptic powder and pressure or baking flour in an emergency. Just make sure not to apply too much force since this could cause more pain than what was initially inflicted on your pup by mistake during trimming time.

Start Early in Age

We recommend that you begin body-handling exercises when your pup is still a puppy. Gently familiarizing him with all of the equipment and how it’ll be working can help teach squeamishness and let them know this isn’t painful or scary!

Trim at Home

Cutting your dog’s nails at home is a great way to keep them comfortable while taking care of this essential grooming task. Busy pet professionals may need to use a groomer or a vet. However, this may not be the most relaxing way. Nail trimming at home ensures that your dog is relaxed and at ease throughout each step of the process.

Understand Their Reactions

When you take the time to understand how your dog feels, it will help shift what kind of reaction they have during nail care. Your pet may not be trying on purpose when they react in fear at the paws being stuck with clippers!

Choose Tools Wisely

Try something new if you find that your dog has had an unpleasant experience with a particular trimming tool. It’s easier to build up positive associations instead of trying to restore the negative ones!

Dog Teeth Brushing Tips

The dog’s teeth are also in need of attention. Dogs can develop tooth decay and gum disease like humans if their pearly whites aren’t regularly brushed. All you’ll need is some brushing tools designed for this purpose: either an electric or manual brush, depending on what type suits you best (or even both!), plus fluoride treatment capsules which help deter future abscesses by killing off bacteria quickly before they start growing again. Below are some more essential tips to follow for healthy gums and teeth.

Purchase Toothbrush and Toothpaste

You can buy toothbrushes for your dog at a pet store or online. They have longer handles that are easy to grip, making them perfect if you want quick access between the back teeth! Be sure to use toothpaste specially formulated for dogs. Some ingredients in human toothpaste can be toxic.

Choose Location and Time

You want to do the teeth brushing in an area of your home that is free from distractions such as pets and children, has good lighting, and promotes a calm atmosphere for your pup.

Test with Fingers

Specific training methods teach dogs to be calm during this touching procedure. First, lift the top lip with one hand while touching the lower incisors; then push down gently. Using your fingers first allows your pup to become familiar with the process of someone checking and cleaning their teeth.

Introduce the Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Before you start brushing, introduce the toothbrush without anything on it. Slowly put it in the mouth and work your way around the entire mouth, front, back, top, bottom, and sides. Give a reward if they have tolerated this action well. Next, show your pup the toothpaste tube, put a little on your finger, and allow them to lick it off.

Begin Brushing

Add the toothpaste and start brushing. Start front to back, top to bottom. The bottom inside will be a bit more complex and can be added in future brushings as your pup becomes more comfortable with the brushing.

Reward and Praise

Make sure you give verbal praise throughout the process. Teeth brushing is unnatural for dogs, so you want to build their confidence and familiarity with this part of grooming. Throughout each step, you can give a treat. As time goes on and they become accustomed to their teeth being brushed, you can slowly remove the food rewards.

Certain breeds require special attention between the folds and ears, so droopy ears should be monitored. Talk to your veterinarian to get grooming tips specific to your pup.

What’s your dog’s grooming routine like? Tell us in the comments.

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The day has finally arrived: Your new bundle of fur is coming home! After a long search, you found the right puppy for you and your family — and now the preparation begins.

As a responsible pet lover, you will need to provide a safe environment for this little puppy. Preparing your home and yard for the new family member is similar to doing so for a curious toddler — you want to eliminate all dangers. Your pup will want to investigate every electrical cord, every closet, and every rut in the yard, and he won’t distinguish between your favorite pair of shoes and his chew toy. It’s up to you to make sure your dog (and your stuff!) will be safe from those puppy temptations.

Before your puppy comes home, walk through your house from room to room, keeping an eye out for these possible hazards. 

Puppy Proofing Checklist

• Kitchen
• Bathroom
• Bedroom
• Living Areas
• Office
• Garage
• Yard

How to Puppy Proof Your Kitchen

The kitchen contains all sorts of interesting drawers, cabinets, and cords, not to mention smells and tastes. If he can get into a cabinet or drawer, your puppy will explore everything inside. Childproof latches, which can be found at your local hardware store, prevent curious pups from investigating while keeping potentially dangerous foods and cleaning supplies out of reach.

Power cords look like fun chew toys to a teething puppy. Tucking them out of reach, blocking them, or enclosing them in a chew-proof PVC tube will divert your dog’s attention.

A sometimes overlooked item in the kitchen is the stove. Some models have knobs located on the front of the appliance, which large dogs can easily reach. Another area of concern is food prep. Be quick to clean messes left on

How to Puppy Proof Your Bathroom

The bathroom can be a dangerous place for a puppy, too. Razors, pills, cotton swabs, and soap left within your dog’s reach can be easily ingested — which can mean an emergency visit to your veterinarian. Family members need to be conscientious about cleaning up after themselves in the bathroom. Put shampoos, soap, tissues, and accessories out of reach or inside a cabinet or drawer.

Especially while your pup is young, keep the toilet lid down at all times, or keep the bathroom door closed. A curious small dog could jump into the bowl and drown. In addition, use a trash can with a locking lid or stash it under the sink. Also, install childproof latches on the drawers and cabinets, and be sure to tuck dangling cords away, out of your pup’s reach.

How to Puppy Proof Your Bedroom

Dogs are scent-oriented, so they gravitate toward anything that smells like you. Shoes, slippers, and clothing will quickly become toys if you don’t safeguard such items behind a closed closet door. Keep clothing picked up, store shoes out of reach, and put laundry in a tall, closed hamper. Store jewelry, hair ties, coins, and other small ingestible items in containers or drawers, and secure any exposed cords or wires. Pretty much anything you do not want your pup to chew on needs to be put away. Many dogs like to den under the bed or wedge themselves behind furniture, so put up temporary blockades to prevent your puppy from hiding where she shouldn’t.

Perfumes, aftershave, and other similar items contain ethanol, a toxic ingredient for canines. Keep these products on an out-of-reach shelf or behind closed doors.

How to Puppy Proof Your Living Areas

Whether a living room or family room, these cozy gathering places often have pillows, shoes, magazines, iPods — all kinds of things that could tempt a curious and teething puppy.
Stay vigilant about straightening up and putting away clutter, especially in those areas where you and your family spend the most time. Put loose items away, stow pillows and blankets in decorative bins, and keep cords and wires out of puppy’s reach.

Houseplants are another area you need to pay close attention to as you get your living or dining room ready for a puppy. Many plants are toxic to dogs and will need to be moved to a secure location or possibly re-homed. Even dog-safe plants will be a temptation for them to dig in the soil, leaving a big mess for you to clean.

How to Puppy Proof Your Office

Your puppy may be drawn by all sorts of temptations in your office: papers, magazines, cords, wires, paperclips, rubber bands, and staples. These items may be fun to play with, but they can be fatal if chewed or swallowed. As with the rest of the house, pick up strewn office supplies, secure or enclose cords and wires, and keep decorative items well out of your pup’s reach.

Keep plants on a shelf or counter if possible. If not, consider putting them in a spare room and keeping the door closed until your furry friend has graduated from his curious puppy stage.

How to Puppy Proof Your Garage and Yard

When you look around your garage and yard, you’ll see many obvious and not-so-obvious dangers to your puppy. Paint, cleaners, insecticides, rat and rodent poison, snail poison, fertilizers, antifreeze, and gasoline represent a handful of toxins and chemicals that you may have in your garage or outdoor shed. Antifreeze, for example, has a sweet taste that attracts animals, but it can be deadly if ingested, even in small amounts. Secure all bottles, boxes, and containers of these substances inside a locked cabinet, or store them on high shelves that your pup can’t reach. Your best course of action may be to make sure your pup is never allowed in the garage.

Store tools and power equipment in a cabinet or shelf that the puppy cannot reach. These items can be a temptation for chewing and ruining their effectiveness.

Some plants, such as daffodils, foxglove, bird-of-paradise, and lupine, can be poisonous to your dog and cause varied reactions, ranging from a rash to vomiting and diarrhea. You can find a list of the most commonly encountered toxic plants at the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center website.

Better Safe than Sorry!

By taking some time to puppy-proof your house (and keep it puppy-proofed!), you’ll give your new pet a good start with his new family. As he gets older, passes through his developmental phases, and learns basic obedience and manners, you won’t need to be so vigilant with your pick-up routine. Until then, however, it’s better to be safe than sorry! You can find many puppy safety items to purchase to make this process easier for you. Most times, simply moving objects out of reach or to another room with the door closed will solve most safety concerns. 

Commonly Asked Puppy Proofing Questions

How Do I Puppy Proof Electrical Cords?

Depending on your pup, simply tucking and hiding cords behind or under furniture will work just fine. Attach cords with zip-ties to the legs of tables or desks. Another option is to run cables under rugs or along with door frames and attach them with clips to keep them in place. Be mindful of wrapping up excess cords and binding with a cord winder. For smaller or persistent puppies, there are braided wire cord keepers.

How Do I Block my Bed So My Puppy Doesn’t Get Stuck Under it?

The most effective way to stop the dog from going under beds is positive reinforcement to correct the behavior. Offer a treat when you call him out from underneath. Of course, you can stuff items under that are secure enough that your pup cannot move them. There are various blockade products on the market to choose from if you want to go that route.

What if My Dog Ingests Pills?

It’s essential to keep all your medications and pills in a safe place, but it’s understandable that sometimes accidents happen or sometimes puppies are persistent. The most dangerous medicines your furry friend could swallow are aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, Xanax, Ambien, beta-blockers, Adderall, and ACE inhibitors. Call your veterinarian or poison control right away if you’re suspicious that a pill was ingested.

Should I Lock My Trash Can?

Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and the kitchen trash can has all sorts of enticing scents that draw it to investigate. Spoiled food, plastic containers, bones, and other potentially hazardous items threaten to injure or cause serious illnesses. Boredom, hunger, anxiety, or straight-up good-smelling food waste will entice your pup in the kitchen. Some pet owners have their wastebasket stored under a kitchen sink with a lock on the door. Choose the best option for your home that will keep your furry friend safe.

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Types of Abrasions

Injuries can affect each dog differently. Knowing the difference of each type will aid you in understanding how to care for your pup and the type of first aid you or possibly your veterinarian will need to administer.

Bites and Punctures

A puncture can happen from stepping on a nail, stick, or any other sharp object, and bites can result from fighting with other animals. This injury can typically occur if your dog has the freedom to run around in a large area or if you are prone to take walks in the woods. If the injury is not adequately taken care of and cleaned, bacteria can get trapped in the wound and become infected, causing an abscess.

Insect Bites and Stings

When your pet is stung or bit by a bee, flea, spider, or tick, it can sometimes cause a reaction. These responses can be severe or just a nuisance. Vomiting, difficulty breathing, inflamed skin, and death are some of the more severe reactions to a bite or sting.

Torn Nails

A torn nail is a minor injury compared to others on this list, and however, it can cause bleeding and can be painful. The nail can pull by getting caught on a log or rock or if your pup jerks its paw quickly during a trimming session.

Lacerations & Abrasions

These cuts typically will heal all independently or with a bit of first aid administration. Depending on how deep the laceration is, surgery could be needed to repair the cut appropriately. If the object that caused the injury is dirty, then infection could set in, making even a tiny abrasion a severe risk for your pup.

How to Treat Minor Injuries

Be sure your hands are clean. Then gently clip the fur away from the wound. Fur in a healing wound can lead to contamination and delayed healing. Use warm water to flush the wound to remove dirt and debris from the area. Apply an antibiotic cream to the area three times daily. Distract the pet for a few minutes to keep your pet from licking off the medication. If the wound spreads or produces pus or the pet is uncomfortable, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Essential First Aid Items to Keep on Hand

Every pet owner should have an emergency first aid kit in their home and even in the car. Being prepared for a situation could mean life and death for your beloved family dog. You can rest easy and remain calm with a kit fully stocked and ready for use, even if you don’t think you will ever need it. Any bag, bin, container, or backpack is all you need for the essentials below. This list is not exhaustive, more items you may include can be found here.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Clean out wounds and cuts with hydrogen peroxide, and you can also use this solution for inducing vomiting if your furry friend has ingested something harmful. You should speak to your vet before administering for vomiting and do not perform without the guidance of a veterinarian.

Antibiotic Ointment

You will want to keep this in your car and your home for those times your pup gets a scrape or scratch. The ointment provides a barrier to keep out germs and dirt, which will help prevent infection. The antibiotic ointment also provides pain relief.

Scissors, Gauze, Tape, Rubber Gloves

Gauze is perfect to have on hand to stop bleeding and can even be fashioned as a makeshift muzzle. The tape holds the gauze in place, and scissors can cut an old t-shirt if you run out of gauze. Rubber gloves are essential in any emergency to protect yourself.

Wet Wipes

These might not seem like emergency items you need to have on hand. However, wet wipes come in handy to clean dirt or blood off a wound so you can have a better look. Wet wipes are perfect for cleaning bacteria and germs off your pup and other surfaces to prevent infection.

Blanket or Towel

If your pup is injured, a blanket wrapped around it can help calm and allow you to look at their wound and assess what type of care is needed. If you’re in a rocky area or the ground is too hot or cold, a towel provides a safe spot for your four-legged friend to lay on, and you can examine their abrasion.

Water, Treats, Food

These supplies might seem like apparent items to have on hand, but sometimes the most obvious ones are forgotten the most. Keep a small stash of water, food, or treats in your first aid bin. These items will come in handy when you don’t have access or need them to help distract your dog in an emergency.

Flashlight

Aside from the obvious reasons why a flashlight is helpful to have in your kit, using a flashlight can help you find a pill you dropped or see better to get a splinter out of your pup’s paw. It’s a good idea to stash some backup batteries and if you can, purchase a solar-powered flashlight and keep it in a spot where the daylight can charge it.

Simple Steps to Administering First Aid

First aid is the initial treatment offered after an emergency or injury. Following a few simple steps can assist you with the process of initiating treatment and getting your dog the help it needs.

Keep Calm

Your voice should be low and reassuring that everything will be ok. Check out your surroundings to ensure no more threats that could harm your furry friend.

Keep Dog Warm

Put a blanket, towel, or anything you may have on your dog and keep its movement to a minimum, especially if there’s a broken bone. The only time you don’t want warmth is during a heat stroke.

Contact Your Vet

Depending on the injury, you may want to reach out to your veterinarian for their advice if your pup should come to the office or if you can treat at home. If you have decided to administer first aid, we recommend a follow-up appointment to ensure a full recovery. Again, this all depends on the nature of the injury.

Restrain Safely

Animals tend to become distracted or disoriented at the onset of an injury. Sometimes the stress can cause a dog to act aggressively, so you will want to protect yourself, others around, and your pet by restraining. You can restrain your dog with a muzzle or by wrapping them in a blanket.

Transport Carefully

You can place a small dog into a carrier for transportation and remove the top for easier access. You should never push a dog into the cage, as this can worsen the injury. A makeshift stretcher or a box for larger dogs could be utilized for safe transporting.

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No matter how careful you are with your dog, accidents happen — and sometimes they’re costly ones. Just ask Les Kaciban of Ashburn, Virginia, whose Komondor puppy Charlie swallowed a corn cob and required emergency surgery to remove it.

The bill came to a whopping $3,600. It was a good thing that Kaciban had pet health insurance. His out-of-pocket expenses came to an easier-to-swallow $1,000, while his insurance policy covered the difference.

Pet owners today face higher veterinary costs than ever. The American Pet Product Association, a trade organization based in Greenwich, Connecticut, reports that because technological advances in procedures for pets, like hip replacements, physical rehabilitation, and chemotherapy, have become more available, spending for veterinary services for dogs have exploded to an average of $407 per year for surgical procedures and $248 per year in routine wellness visits.

A pet health insurance policy can help defray those costs, explains Kristen Lynch, executive director of the North American Pet Health Insurance Association in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. This financial risk-management tool can make the difference between affording health care for your dog — and not.

Insurance Benefits and Drawbacks

Pet health insurance has its benefits, says Carol McConnell, DVM, vice president and chief veterinary officer at Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. in Brea, California. “It gives dog owners freedom,” she says. “It’s less restrictive for them. They don’t have to make a medical decision for their baby based on cost.”

Among its other benefits, notes Lynch:

• Pet insurance protects a dog’s family’s finances against unforeseen medical costs, offering them peace of mind knowing that they have resources should their pet become injured or ill;

• Pet insurance gives people the confidence to take their pet in for veterinary treatment without hesitating or waiting before a medical condition worsens;

• Pet insurance allows the veterinarian to provide pets with top-notch care and practice the most advanced medical treatments; and

• Pet insurance helps the dog live a longer, healthier life.

“Pet insurance is designed to be used,” Lynch says. “When people wait to take their dog in for medical care, it ends up costing more — especially with pets that are so good at hiding their illness.”

Of course, pet health insurance policies have their limitations, too. Depending on the type and its fine print, certain conditions may be excluded, such as pre-existing illnesses, anything related to pregnancy and/or birth, some routine treatments like parasite management and dental maintenance, and the purchase price of the dog if she passes away after a certain age.

At the time of underwriting, insurers may also look at factors like the dog’s age, whether she’s purebred or a mixed breed, and where she lives, Lynch says.

“And there are waiting periods, too,” she says. “Typically, there is a 48-hour wait for accident insurance, and a 14-day wait for policies that cover illnesses as it takes a longer time for illnesses to manifest.”

Demystifying Insurance

The pet health insurance process works similarly to human health insurance, says Emily Pointer, DVM, medical coordinator and staff internist at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital in New York City. After choosing a plan that works best for their pet, policyholders pay a monthly premium and are responsible for co-pays and deductibles when they take their pets to the vet, she says.

“One important difference between pet and human health insurance is that even if the pet owner has insurance, she is usually responsible for paying the cost of veterinary care at the time of service,” Dr. Pointer says. “The pet owner then submits a claim for reimbursement.”

The process usually looks like this:

• Visit your vet (providers usually allow you to take your dog to any licensed vet).
• Pay your vet bill.
• Submit a claim to your insurance provider.
• Your provider looks into your receipt, visit details, and vet records and pays out the claim according to your policy.
• You receive reimbursement from your insurance company.

Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, selecting a plan is where it can get complicated.

A dozen different companies provide health insurance plans for pets, and each one has its own range of policies and premiums. When comparing them, first think about the type of coverage that fits your situation the best.

Coverage Options

In general, policies cover three distinct categories, says Lynch: accident, illness and wellness. Accidents include unexpected injuries, like Charlie’s corn cob meal that required emergency surgery; illnesses include diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, like diabetes or urinary tract infections; and wellness (also termed routine or preventative care) includes vaccinations, laboratory work and dental work.

Insurers often combine the different types of coverage in their plans, Pointer says. “And then there is a price difference as well. The more a policy covers, the more expensive the premium,” she says.

Think of it like good-better-best policies, Lynch says.

Selecting Insurance Plan Variables

On top of that, many insurers allow you to customize some or all of your plan variables. For example, with SPOT Pet Insurance, you select the deductible, annual limit, and reimbursement rate. Other providers may have a pre-packaged recommendation or requirement for the variables within their plans. Pet parents can think about how much involvement they want to have in building their policy and let that help them narrow down which provider to use.

The deductible in dog insurance works the same way as in human health insurance: you’ll need to meet your deductible before you can be reimbursed. Once the deductible is met, you’ll be reimbursed up to the percent defined in your policy. A low deductible could be $100, and a high deductible could be $1,000. The options available for deductibles depend on the insurance provider.

For annual limits, insurers typically offer lower-end coverage of less than $2,000, mid-range coverage in the $2,000 to $3,000 range, higher-end coverage in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, and unlimited coverage, “which is like the Cadillac of pet health insurance,” she says. “Sixty to 80 percent of policyholders have mid-range coverage. That’s because if a pet has to stay overnight for treatment, for example, it can cost about $2,000 or $3,000.”

For reimbursement rates, dog owners can expect to get 70, 80, or 90 percent back on eligible claims. Again, some providers will have a set reimbursement amount while others allow you to choose your deductible when you set up your policy. Premiums vary depending on the deductible, annual limit, and reimbursement rate.

Something else to consider when choosing a policy: Whether the provider has a cap on particular conditions, like $500 for kidney disease or $1,000 for foreign body surgery; a set percentage that it will pay of the overall cost, such as 70 percent of the bill for a foreign body surgery; any per-incident maximums; or specific policies regarding coverage of chronic conditions, Pointer says.

“There may also be restrictions for hereditary or genetic conditions if you have a purebred dog,” she says. “So be sure to read the fine print of each policy.”

Become Pet Insurance Savvy

Deciding whether to invest in pet health insurance and can be a painstaking process. But with some careful research and reading of various policies’ fine print, you can choose the one that’s right for you and your dog.

“It is very important for pet owners to be well informed about this complicated subject before picking a policy,” Pointer says.

Cesar Millan is the chairman of SPOT Pet Insurance, and that’s who ensures his pack. They share his mission of creating healthier pets, better humans, and a better planet.

What are your thoughts on health insurance for your dog?

Considering health insurance for your dog? We can help!

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The Importance of Dog Dental Care

The good news for dogs is they’re not as prone to cavities as human beings are. But despite the old conventional wisdom that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a humans, dogs can still develop problems like tartar and plaque buildup and gingivitis. But it’s not just bad breath and yellow teeth you have to worry about. As with humans, these canine dental problems can actually lead to life-threatening infections and issues including heart, liver, and kidney disease.

Not to mention, the cost of dental extractions to remove teeth that are beyond help can range from $10/tooth for a simple extraction to more than $1,000 for a molar root canal. Best to save your wallet and your precious pup the trouble by taking preventive measures!

Here’s how to practice good dog dental care that will extend your dog’s life:

• Brush their teeth early and often!
• Take them for routine teeth cleanings
• Feed dry dog food
• Use chew bones and chew toys

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

If your dog can brush his own teeth, you can stop reading this article and start posting the video to YouTube. For the rest of us, we have to use a canine toothbrush and a little strategy. The best brush to use is double-headed with the brushes at a 45 degree angle to clean below the gumline, like those offered by companies like Petosan.

Your dog might not go for the tooth brushing at first, but hopefully, you can make it a reasonably pleasant experience for both of you. Try and choose a time when your dog has had a decent amount of exercise, so he’s more inclined to sit still for the procedure. Don’t overdo it the first few times. Start slowly and quit if your dog gets agitated, even if you don’t brush the whole mouth. You can increase the time every day as he gets used to it. Also, make sure to speak soothingly and pleasantly during the brushing and reward your dog with a treat afterwards. Before too long, your dog should start looking forward to the event.

Start Early With Your Dog as a Puppy!

Grown dogs can learn to become comfortable with dog teeth cleaning, but make things easier for yourself by working with your dog as a puppy.

How to Pick the Right Tooth Paste for Your Dog

This is very important. Do NOT use regular human toothpaste for your dog. Most human toothpaste includes fluoride, which is extremely poisonous to dogs. You can find toothpaste formulated for dogs at most good pet stores.

Some pet stores also offer dog mouthwash, which you can add to water bowls to help kill bacteria and reduce plaque. When used correctly and diluted in your pet’s water, doggie mouthwash is safe, just make sure your pet doesn’t get ahold of the whole bottle. As with toothpaste, do not use human mouthwashes on your dog.

Dry Food is Better Than Soft Food

If the tooth brushing ends in blood, sweat, or tears, there are still choices you can make to help improve your dog’s oral health. Crunchy kibble is better for your dog’s teeth than soft food, as soft food is more likely to stick to the teeth and cause decay.

Chew Bones and Chew Toys to Clean Teeth

There are many synthetic bones and chew toys that are specially designed to strengthen your dog’s gums and teeth. Just make sure you’re providing safe objects for your dog to chew on. Hard objects can cause broken teeth.

Giving your dog a good bone to chew on can help get rid of build-up and keep teeth strong, but imagine a human who only chews gum and uses mouth rinse. That’s not an effective means of ensuring good dental hygiene and overall health. The same is true for your dog.

Routine Dental Cleanings

Despite your best efforts, you’re not likely to get your dog a full, deep clean with a toothbrush the way a vet can. Even if your pet has healthy teeth, it’s a good idea to have your vet perform routine cleanings where they scale plaque and tartar, clean the gum line, and polish the teeth. Depending on the size of your dog, you should take them in for a routine cleaning every six months to a year (smaller dogs may be more prone to plaque buildup and disease).

Your vet should include a simple dental examination with a normal check-up, too, but ask for it if they don’t.

If you have pet insurance, some providers offer preventive care coverage that you can add to your coverage that can help cover some of the costs of routine teeth cleanings. You may be more likely to keep up with routine visits, too, if you are already paying for some of it in your pet insurance policy.

When to See a Veterinarian

Whether you brush your dog’s teeth or not, you should have a look inside his mouth every week or so. If you notice any of these signs of dental problems, then take your dog to the vet:

• Bad breath
• Change in eating or dog chewing habits
• Pawing at the face or mouth
• Depression
• Excessive drooling
• Misaligned or missing teeth
• Discolored, broken, missing or crooked teeth
• Red, swollen, painful or bleeding gums
• Yellowish-brown tartar crust along the gum line
• Bumps or growths within the mouth

As mentioned, the treatment of serious dental issues can be costly, but it may be much more costly to your pet’s overall wellbeing to leave them unattended.

If your dog has health insurance and they develop dental disease, you may be eligible to be reimbursed for treatment of the issues above (if the disease isn’t considered a pre-existing condition on your policy).

Clean Now, Save Yourself Trouble Later

Dental care can be a hassle for humans and dogs, but proper maintenance can be a money saver in the long run and even a lifesaver. Letting it go can lead to costly and often painful vet visits down the road. Many dogs have to be given anesthesia to have their teeth and gums cleaned if the buildup is bad enough. Keep your dog’s mouth clean though, and you’ll both be smiling!

How often do you brush your dog’s teeth?

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Dear Cesar,

My dog Honey will NOT let us cut her toe nails. She is petrified. How can we do this?

She is a therapy dog for elderly people and needs her nails cut on a regular basis. She has some anxiety issues. They arose after her brother Bear passed away this summer. She saw it. Could this have caused her anxiety? Please help us. We need to be able to cut her nails and don’t know what to do. Our vet suggested drugging her. We tried this and she was sooo out of it. Help!!!

Sincerely,
Janine Thomas – Winnipeg, Canada

Dear Janine,

It sounds like this therapy dog could use some therapy herself! For this particular situation, I would recommend water therapy in the form of swimming. Since your dog is tense and anxious, your goal is transform this frantic energy into relaxed energy. Honey can do it; you just have to show her how!

Swimming, particularly in warm water, can help your dog relax and also drain her energy. If you have a small dog, you don’t even need a pool. You can use a small tub of water. Simply hold the dog by the sides and let her paddle. If your dog is uncertain about the water, start by holding her on an incline, just let her bottom half touch the water. Wait until your dog begins to paddle with his front legs, and then you can slowly lower her front half into the water. If the dog begins to splash around and panic, calmly return the dog to the inclined position again – with the back half of the dog touching the water. Then once the dog relaxes and begins paddling with the front legs again, send her back in! Continue this until she becomes comfortable with the water.

Once your dog has reached the lowest level of energy, begin by holding a paw and presenting the nail clipper to it without cutting anything. Then send her right back into the water to drain even more energy. At the same time, you are softening her nails, so they will actually be easier to trim. Then, after another round of swimming, you present the nail clippers again. This time cut a little bit, just to let her experience it and see her reaction. If she panics, send her right back in for more water therapy, but if the dog remains calm, do the whole foot – and then send her back into the water! This way, you’re not giving the dog time to focus on the nail clipping, instead she is focusing on the water. We are exchanging one challenge for another! Your dog can learn to associate the nail trimmings with the time in between swims that she gets to relax and collect herself.

Keep repeating this process – allow your dog to swim, trim the nails, and put her right back in – until you’ve trimmed all four paws.

I encourage you to visualize the scenario going well before attempting it. Don’t panic or feel sorry if your dog is stressed. Instead, make your dog feel safe by maintaining the calm and assertive energy of a pack leader.

Stay balanced,

Cesar Millan

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