Best Winter Holiday Gifts for Pet Lovers

The presence and spirit of giving and sharing is always felt, especially when the cool Christmas breeze passes by. It's good to see and feel the warm feelings of giving and sharing in this season worth celebrating. While online pet stores offer seasonal sale items and holiday gifts, check out this list of cool holiday gift ideas for pet lovers, most specially in this winter season.

Letters and Postcards
Animal smiles always bring energetic happy feeling to see, take some pictures of your pet's smile and send to your friends and relatives. Print some pictures for posters or for a Christmas greeting letter along with a small message and update about your pet. Very simple and memorable yet very heart-warming, isn't it?

Heated Pet Beds
This is one of the very reasonable and perfect gifts for the "fur babies", especially for older dogs and cats because of the warm, comfort and healing benefits from amazing beds. Heated pet beds can help animal's relief some sore of joints and muscles, they have therapeutic nature can and stimulate circulation of blood, calms and soothes animals from surgery, ease pet separation anxiety and improves the level of activity of pets.

Coats, Jackets & Paw Socks
Protective dog clothing like dog coats, jackets, paw socks and dog hoodies are essential accessories for more than one reason. Aside from keep your dog dry and warm when the weather turns stormy and cold, they are fabulous fashionable pet accessories that are perfect gifts for pet lover's pets.

Heated Bird Perch & Heated Pet Bowl
These hermostatically controlled devices are great too both for ferrets, dog & cat lovers with their ease and comfort of use. Choose heated bowls that are UL and CUL listed, the cord is safety sealed while the bowl is steel wrapped to prevent abrasion and protect the cord from a chewing, the answer to freezing water bowls. Heated bird perch should be harmless low-voltage design with irregular surface that prevent foot pressure sore or cramping, and it can be left continuously so the bird can hop whenever he needs warmth.

WiFi and Wireless Pet Fence
They are the latest and revolutionary wireless pet fence with the same training and protection of pets from entering the restricted or dangerous areas like outside yard or busy road, without setting up on your cold and snowy backyard. WiFi Rechargeable Pet Fence uses the latest digitally encoded WiFi signal technology used in advanced wireless communications with the 802.15 WiFi protocol. While the Wire-Free Pet Fence intelligently tracks the location of your dog at all times, reminding your pet to respect the established boundary safe area, all while communicating critical safety information back to you.

Hannah Serrano is a passionate writer of PetStreetMall.com, an premiere site about dog supplies and seasonal pet items sale.

Cool DrawTheDog Rescue Drawing

Check out this cool and amazing drawing and animation from DrawTheDog for rescue banners and image.



See the cool dog collars in red, blue and brown colors.

Pig Olympics: Seeking Glory

Let the Games Begin!

In Moscow, Russia, pig owners from seven different countries gather to show off the skills of their star piglets at the Pig Olympic Games. At the event, pigs partake in pigball (soccer), swimming, and running competitions.

A piggy mentally prepares for the long swim ahead. Oh yeah let's do this!

During pigball, the pigs are divided into two teams of five and chase after a soccer ball covered in fish oil, which they push with their snouts. To score goals, the porcine competitors push a ball into a circle painted in the corner of the pen.

It's soccer time, may the best pig win!! Oh Really, I'm Just Happy to Be Here!

Come come and get it haha!

It show time haha! I've practice everyday for this day and I show off!

Cut to the Chase! Running Competition!

Two owners cheer on their piglets in the running competition. Go piggy go! Treats are on the finish line!

Go buddy, show our special running move with our super power back feet attack!

Aye aye sir!

Now let the Swimming Race begin!

I'm here for to beat Michael Phelp's record haha! Oh I should wear goggles.. and may be I need pet life jacket too!

Does anyone knows where's the way to the finish line? I dunno, just follow me (black), I smell it's right there!

Oh you'ew like a life jacket, wait buddy I'll try to walk to this barrier thing for faster race.

It's a Close Race!

Go go gooo! Ok I see you technique with this barrier thing. I'm not gonna let you win that easily, cause the winner will be me, nyahaha!

Splash of Victory!

Haha I did it! Hey what's my official time, did I broke Mikey Phelp's record?

Pictures courtesy of Life.com

Life.com - Seeking Glory: Pig Olympic Gallery

Annoying Description for a Dog Product

Browsing across some electronic dog gadgets and this manufacturer's description about their product is one of the worst to see for most animal lovers.

Manufacturer's Description:

Why walk the dog - let it take its self for a walk! Features a high quality welded steel frame with composite pressed marine plywood (480mm x 1100mm x 15t) running deck. Its large (for small - medium dogs) running area and 1.0hp continuous duty (2.0hp peak) motor powers the belt to give your dog its best ever exercise. It has powered motorised decline / elevation of 0 ~ +11.5%. to chart your dog's progress the 3-window display fitness monitor shows speed, distance and time modes and controls the running belt speed - from 0.8 - 10km/h. When not in use, simply take advantage of its space- saving, folding design.

..link here..

The product would be beneficial for some dog owners in special cases but should not be encourage for all. The first sentence says it all, it is very bugging, seriously.

And this sentence.. "This state of the art electronic motorised dog treadmill can take all the hard work out of exercising man's best friend."
..unless your are living in a very extreme weather, how can can you call him your best friend if you are too lazy to walk him.. dog treadmill could be an adjunctive but not for a replacement, there should be no excuse for being lazy.
Don't ever let loss your quality time with your best friend, mostly for the times you could share the same benefits on regular dog walking; the scenery, the meet-up, the sweat, the happy bouncing & jumping, some training and commands your dog can learn, etc.

Giant Pumpkin for Animals Place Sanctuary

A 60lb pumpkin was one of the donations for Animal Place Sanctuary. This huge gourd was a big gift for animals to enjoy!

Pumpkin set for it's fate!

Pig meets sheep as first challengers..


Now they are off for a soccer game!
A pig got a big portion which he use to re-enact something from sleepy hallow!
Others got some piece to nom nom too!
A goat join but looks like he got little "ewww" expression with the thing and the pig..
Cattles join to chew and clean up too!
Reference:
Animal Rights Blog..

Wonderful Thoughts About Dogs

Dogs are truly man's best friend. It's so inspiring that they are capable of showing an unconditional love and affection to every owner that shows true care about them. This wonderful thoughts about dogs in our lives will surely touch your heart.

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.
-Ben Williams


The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue.
-Anonymous


A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself..
-Josh Billings


The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.
-Andy Rooney




More of inspiring dogs and pet things on PSM...


Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog.
- Franklin P. Jones


If your dog is fat, you aren't getting enough exercise.
-Unknown


My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3.00 a can. That's almost $21.00 in dog money.
-Joe Weinstein


If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous,
he will not bite you; that is the principal difference
between a dog and a man.
-Mark Twain


Dogs are not our whole life,
but they make our lives whole.
-Roger Caras


If you think dogs can't count, try putting
three dog biscuits in your pocket and then
give him only two of them.
-Phil Pastoret

Sweet Bull Terrier with toddler body drawing

Very sweet and priceless.
What might she turning into? Good thing the pet bed is soft and comfortable.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

The Facts about Dog Breed Rating

Fact: The CDC has stopped reporting bite statistics by breed, as these numbers are driven by eyewitness reports, and are very often inaccurate. Why did the CDC stop? Because misidentification of breed is extremely common, making eyewitness reports an unreliable source.

In her book, Fatal Dog Attacks, author Karen Delise has studied the statistics and the stories behind these rare but deadly events. A top expert in this specialized field, she has concluded that a number of factors are present in a fatal attack.

Fact: On average, there are fewer than 30 deaths annually in the U.S. due to fatal dog maulings. Statistically, these tragedies are incredibly rare, as the dog population of 79 million. The stats on deaths by breed are available, as there are so few, and yes, Pitbulls and Rottweilers are on the list. But so are other breeds you might not imagine.

The media and headline-hungry pols love to point to these stats, and with great authority point to Pitbulls and Rottweilers as top offenders.

But what the media and politicians don't tell you is that the breeds on this list are driven by breed popularity, and that over the years, the types of breeds on this list have shifted.

So why are these breeds on the list? The answer is this - breed popularity drive the stats, but perhaps even more intangible is that breed popularity with irresponsible dog owners is an even bigger factor.

The absolute, number one factor that determines whether or not a dog will become dangerous is............... ownership.

And in compiling this list of dangerous breeds, you'll note they all share one trait in common - they are all human.


Here they are:

10. Criminal Dog Owners - They vary in size, shape, color and creed. Whether urban or rural, they thrive in environments where crime does pay.

This breed may deliberately train dogs to be human aggressive. This breed has been known to shoot dogs for fun it. They fight dogs and use sweet tempered dogs as bait. Here in the New York area - they've been known to feed dogs ground up glass and gun power to toughen them up - you know-In case the police kick the front door - th


9. Irresponsible and Ignorant Dog Owners

Characterized by a complete lack of common sense and or manners, these dog owners come in three distinct varieties - Dumb, Dumber and Plain Stupid.

However they do share the same Dumb_and_dumberbreed traits, like

1. Complete disregard for local leash or pooper scooper laws
2. Stubborn, self-centered rudeness
3. The inability to see the potential consequences for their behavior

So here are the three types if I & I's:

Dumb- When Snowball whines to go out, they throw open the front door and let her out to wander the neighborhood. Snowball is free to poop and pee wherever she likes. And if Snowball should wander into my yard and my dog defends its territory, like many dogs .......we've got a problem.

Dumber - Easy to recognize, this genius nonchalantly walks their dog off leash in the neighborhood, like it's no big deal. WEll in my book - it is a big deal. How would you like it if I let my dog run up to your children off leash. Or run up to any Stupidperson who may be afraid of dogs. (and BTW - I support off leash space - just not on the block). And it's not OK if your dog takes a dump in my flowerbed, got that?

Plain Stupid- Waaaaay short on common sense - they let their children play unattended with dogs, or let them run up to pet a stranger's dog or get in a strange dog's face.

8. Negligent or Abusive Dog Owners

Like sociopaths who lack basic the human trait of compassion - this all-too-common breed is well known for a lack of care or concern. They are, however, gifted and talented in the areas of neglect or cruelty.

Abused_dog These G & Ts routinely fail to give their animals even the basics of food, water or shelter or fail to provide vet care.


6. Ignorant Shelter Workers & Rescuers

We give shelter and rescue workers big snaps for the great job they do on a daily basis. That said - they are some bad apples in this bunch. Who? These people are marked by their staggering ignorance, leaving the rest of the dog world stammering in surprise.

Statements from these so-called "professionals" include, "We don't adopt out Pitbulls - they have locking jaws", and "We don't adopt out Rotties or Dobermans - they're aggressive". Better yet, they hide a dog's health or behavioral history, thinking that all dogs can be saved, from adopters who may be in for a big surprise. Someone needs to teach this breed a lesson - and quick.

5. Ignorant Dog Fanciers

Nose and tail always in the air with, "Breed restrictions don't really apply to me - I own a PUREBRED dog". Oh, really ? Maybe you'd like to share you magical powers with the rest of us....or better yet ............

4. Arrogant Dog Fanciers

Not only are nose and tail always in the air, but his type will even dis their fellow dog fanciers with, "it's not my breed". Ain't that special? Now bend over ...........this won't hurt a bit....

Numbers 4 and 5 do a diservice to the many hardworking, ethical home breeders who care deeply about their dogs and the welfare of dogs in general.

3. Irresponsible News Media

They attack -unprovoked, when you least expect it. Out of the blue, and really just when those ratings are starting to take a dive. That's just the perfect time to lead with a dog story. These media outlets target large working breeds, they thrive on fear. And they are yellow to the core.

2. Greedy Insurers

These insurers aren't dogs - they're pigs. And who's to stop them when...........

- they can chow down of easy profits on the backs of good dog owners by denying, limiting or eliminating coverage of dog owners in 37 states?
- they stuff so much of their piggy bank bucks into the pockets of politicians?

Then politicians, hoggin' up all that campaign dough , do the bidding of the insurance sector, blocking bills that would make it illegal for insurers to discriminate against good dogs and good dog owners.

There's a saying - pigs get fat, but hogs get slaughtered. I'd like to invite you all to a barbeque :-)

1. Opportunistic Politicians

These dogs will whine - they beg - they'll do anything for attention - and money - especially from those fat cats in the insurance lobby who ensure obedience with juicy campaign donations. These politicians breed fear, thrive on ignorance and count on apathy.


Reference:
Dog Politics

True Rating of the Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

Which breeds are the most dangerous?

Which ones bite without warning, or can just snap? Which ones are likely to attack unprovoked, or take up a pack mentality? Which breeds have unstable temperaments, and just can't be trusted?

Quick - which breeds come to mind? Are you thinking Pitbulls, Presas, JRT's, Rottweilers? Dobermans or Chows? German Shepherds or Akitas?

Wrong! In fact, really wrong. In fact, if you will look at the stories behind those cases, you will see truth and root of the most dangerous shadows behind.

Contrary to popular belief, these breeds are not the most dangerous. In fact, not a single animal welfare organization on the planet will give you a list of dangerous breeds.

The absolute, number one factor that determines whether or not a dog will become dangerous is............... ownership (absolutely!).

And in compiling this list of dangerous breeds, you'll note they all share one trait in common - they are all human.

That's right, your neighbor, that breeder, that businessman or sometimes ourselves - humans are most responsible for dangerous dogs. Humans are responsible for creating the circumstances and behavior that lead to dog bites or maulings.


continued to list of Top 10 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds..

References:
Dog Politics
Petsafe

Using Dog Beds for Good Pet Health

Dogs are naturally active and playful through the day. They love to run around, jump up and down, and bark a lot. Some dogs, like the hunting and work dogs go through more tiring and stressful tasks in a day. Dog owners must see to it that their pets get enough sleep and rest to recharge the energy they’ve lost in the tiresome activities. A lot of dog owners will just let their pet lay on the cold floor, in a thin sheet of blanket, or even old foam, not knowing that these can have a bearing on their pet’s health. Giving the pets comfortable dog beds will avoid those health risks and even provide numerous benefits.

To provide comfort is the main aim of a dog bed. Instead of letting the pet sleep on hard, cold floor or dirty, uncomfortable sheet, get him a dog bed that can provide him cushion and support. This is really important especially if you have older dogs. This can help any dog maintain healthy joints, relieve their soreness, and avoid arthritis. Aside from the comfort, dogs can also have their own personal space where they can curl up and relax. Dander control is also another advantage of having dog beds. It gives a "main" area in which a majority of their shedding and or dander is contained. Another important benefit.t is insulation. Just when you think that dog fur is already enough to keep dogs warm when it’s cold, a dog bed can provide more warmth and comfort. It gives the dog the right insulation from both the heat of the summer or the bitter cold of winter and fall.

Getting dog beds for the most loved pets will not just bring them great comfort. It can also help dog owners take care of their pet’s health. Let every dog sleep soundly and peacefully in a soft and warm cushioned dog bed.

Dog Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCP Disease) is a congenital (present at birth) degeneration of the bone end. LCP disease of the hip joint that results in abnormal deformity of the ball of the hip joint, caused by the disruption of the blood supply to the head of the femur (the round bone which fits into the hip socket). Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease have different names but refers to the same disease: Calve-Perthes disease, Legg-Perthes disease, Avascular necrosis of the femoral head, Coxa plana or Osteochondritis juvenilis. Legg-Calve-Perthes results when the blood supply to the femoral head is interrupted, resulting in the death of bone cells. This is usually followed by a period of revascularization, where the femoral head is subject to remodeling and/or collapse, creating an irregular fit into the hip socket. This process of bone cells dying and chipping followed by new bone growth and the remodeling of the femoral head and neck, leads to stiffness and pain in the rear leg or legs.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is common in miniature, toy breeds and many other small breed dogs and affects the hip joints of dogs in the ages of 4 to 12 months old. Poodles, Yorkies, Lakeland terriers, west Highland white terriers, Jack Russell terriers and miniature pinchers just to name a few of mostly affected by this syndrome. Sometimes easily mistaken for hip dysplasia is Legg Calvé Perthes disease. The immediate cause of bone death is loss of blood supply. Both sexes are affected, but males suffer 4 times more often than females. This is an avascular (pertaining to inadequate blood supply), aseptic (not infected), developmental osteonecrosis (dying of bone tissue) of the femoral head and neck, found almost entirely in toy or other small breeds. It can be described as a localized tissue anemia. On radiographs, it often looks as if the bone is rotting away, and lameness with variable pain is the major or only symptom. A young dog affected with this disease will gradually develop pain and lameness in 1 hind leg, which slowly worsens over 3 or 4 weeks. The pain will become quite severe, and there is usually muscle shrinkage (atrophy) in the affected leg. In the rare cases where both hips are affected, the dog will sometimes "bunny-hop". As the disease progresses, the dog may suspend the affected limb in the air, and may or may not exhibit pain when the leg is flexed. In very mild cases, often no symptoms are apparent, while in severe cases; the dog can be in great pain and become very irritable.

Diagnosis is accomplished through radiographs (X-rays) of the hips, often done under light anesthesia. Depending on how far the disease has progressed, there may be muscle wasting (atrophy) in the affected limb. Radiographs will show whether your dog has the characteristic features of this disease, and also if there are other bony degenerative changes to the hip. Diagnosis is confirmed with a bone biopsy. Radiographic (X ray) signs of Legg Perthes are usually gross and discouraging, as many cases are not referred to the vet or the specialist for diagnosis until the dog has been limping for a long time or the disease has progressed to the point that it becomes a more real problem to the owner. These small dogs put so little weight on their tiny hip joints that they almost can compensate for discomfort by walking on their forelimbs instead of their four limbs.

There are two approaches in treating this disease: conservative therapy and surgical operation. Conservative treatment with strict cage rest and physical therapy could be successful only if the femoral head is still has its normal shape and is is tightly seated in the socket; monthly radiographs should be made until the pet is 1 year of age. The animal is carried to and from the cage and kept on a leash during evacuation. Strict adherence to this form of treatment results in a dog with nearly normal femoral head (bone end) and complete return of pain-free motion and a normal gait. It takes 4 to 6 months before the femoral head heals sufficiently to permit normal movement.

Surgical Operation. Many dogs have advanced cases of this disease by the time they are examined by a veterinarian and medical treatment is not likely to work. In these dogs, excision of the femoral head (ball portion of the hip joint) is often beneficial. Removal of this section of the bone diminishes painful bony contact in the hip joint. Recovery from this surgery can be slow with recovery periods of up to one year sometimes occurring before good use of the affected leg returns. If muscle atrophy is not present at the time of surgery the recovery time is usually much less. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications may be beneficial. Femoral head and neck excision is the treatment of choice if the radiographs show deformity of the femoral head or looseness of the hip joint; this surgery involves removing the femoral head and neck.

Usually excellent, and within several months, the dog can again walk and run. In some cases, the affected leg may remain slightly shorter and the muscles may be somewhat atrophied. Some veterinarians feel there may be an increased risk of arthritis as the dog ages.

Dog Blastomycosis Bacterial Disease

Blastomycosis of Blasto is a systemic fungal disease that primarily affects dogs and humans, but has also been known to infect cats, sea lions and horses. It is caused by the fungal organism Blastomyces dermatitidis, which is found as a mold in the soil or at room temperatures and as yeast in tissues or at body temperatures. Infection occurs primarily through inhalation. In the lung, alveolar macrophages phagocytize spores and the organism transforms to the yeast phase. Pulmonary macrophages transport the organism to the pulmonary interstitium. Other routes of infection include skin lesions or penetrating injuries that introduce the organism into the body.

Blastomycosis grows in forms: fungal form and yeast form. In fungal form, the bacteria occurs in the environment and the organism creates microscopically tiny spores that, once airborne, are able to pass far into the depths of the lungs. These spores are released from the fungus when the soil is disturbed by the dog digging for gophers or simply by the dog probing the soils following the odor trails that they love so much. Once the spores have taken hold, they grow as single celled yeast forms rather than the fungal form. This is why the Blasto organism is called a biphasic organism... it can grow in the environment as a fungus and within a mammal as a yeast. Blastomycosis is not generally considered a zoonotic disease, meaning one that is potentially contagious to people. If you have a pet with this infection, it indicates that you may be at risk for contracting the disease through a common environmental source such as contaminated soil near a waterway. Since it is the mold form that releases infective spores through the air, you cannot get blastomycosis from the air around your dog who is infected with the yeast form of the fungus.

After inhalation of organisms the incubation period for Blasto can be from a few days to many weeks before any signs of disease show up. Fever of 104 to 105 degrees, poor appetite, low grade deep cough, loss of exercise tolerance, and listlessness are cardinal signs of Blastomycosis. Similar to the other systemic fungal infections, Blastomycosis can spread throughout the body from the lungs and invade lymph nodes, joints, eye structures and skin. Often the first evidence a veterinarian has of Blastomycosis is a small draining ulcer that looks like a small abscess. Sudden blindness, lameness, and blood in the urine may be the first signs of disease... sometimes showing up before any coughing is noticed.

In one retrospective study, clinical signs of Blastomycosis includes respiratory tract problems, depression, anorexia, ocular problems, weight loss, dermatologic abnormalities, lethargy, fever of unknown origin, lameness, exercise intolerance, gastrointestinal tract problems, polyuria or polydipsia, mammary gland mass and urogenital tract problems. Cats show similar clinical signs as dogs, with respiratory difficulty characterized by dyspnea or chronic cough being the most common sign. Depression, dehydration, ocular disease, and CNS signs are also seen. Physical findings reflect clinical history and vary greatly. These include lymphadenopathy, fever, harsh lung sounds, draining skin lesions, chorioretinitis, anterior uveitis, cough, emaciation, retinal detachment, soft–tissue mass and more. Blastomycosis may be diagnosed by identification of the organisms in cytologic samples. Blastomyces dermatitidis usually is seen in the form of round yeast ranging from approximately 5-20 µm in diameter.

There are a few treatments and most of them are going to be drug related depending on how far the disease has progressed. If you do not seek treatment the disease can be life threatening. When the dog has been treated for the disease you should see an improvement over a three to five day period. The first drug usually provided for the disease is amphotericin B. This is an intravenous injection that goes directly to the source of the infection. Since the drug can have adverse effects the vet usually keeps the dog for a couple of days to make sure there is no kidney failure. Ketoconazole is also given. This drug is provided orally. Most often this drug takes ten to fourteen days to see any effects. It has been known to cure the issue, but sometimes both drugs may have to be given. Itraconazole is the newest treatment on the market; however some vets have yet to take up this medication because of the expense to the owner. It can cost about $1000 for treatment since they need to have several doses over a period of days for the effects to work.

Blastomycosis is rare fungal disease with a prevalence of 205/100,000 cases presenting to tertiary facilities.3 While it is a rare disease, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis in any case exhibiting the clinical signs discussed above. If other more common conditions have been excluded, blastomycosis should be investigated. It is an insidious disease that often is recognized only through extensive search for the organism or through a combination of clinical signs, history and signalment.

Dog Protozoal Diseases

Protozoal diseases are caused by protozoans, a term Scientist referring to a unicellular heterotrophic protist, such as an amoeba or a ciliate that are causing parasitic infectious diseases on mammals. Protozoa can reproduce and colonize on host body and can lead which lead to severe infections. There are microscopic, single-cell parasites that live in water, soil, and the feces of infected animals and invade canine digestive systems and blood streams.
Protozoa parasites can be transmitted in many ways, knowing and alerting ourselves with the causes and sources of these diseases with keep our dog and us from these diseases.

Giardiasis. Giardiasis or Giardia is caused by a flagellated protozoan parasites called Giardia Lamblia. These diarrhea-causing protozoans colonize and reproduces in the small intestine and affects the digestive tracts of dogs. The parasite attaches itself to the lining of the small intestines in dogs, human and other mammals, where it sabotages the body's absorption of fats and carbohydrates from digested foods. It attaches to the cells of the intestine with its adhesive disc and rapidly divides to produce a whole population of trophozoites. Contaminated water and feces are the most likely source of this parasite. There are number of drugs to treat Giardia like Flagyl, Neftin, Tinadazole, Panacur, Valbazen and many other being formulated. Keeping our dogs away from foul water is the best way to prevent the disease.

Coccidiosis. The microscopic, spore-forming, single-celled parasites called coccidia (Isospora is the most common) which infect the intestinal tracts of animals, and are the largest group of apicomplexan protozoa. The disease spreads from one animal to another by contact with infected feces or ingestion of infected tissue. Diarrhea, which may become bloody in severe cases, is the primary symptom. Most animals infected with coccidia are asymptomatic; however, young or immuno-compromised animals may suffer severe symptoms, including death. Vet uses low-powered microscopic examination for affected dogs and administer/prescribe drugs to reduce or eliminate dog's immune system to some level and make his own progress against the coccidia infection.

Leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is caused by diphasic protozoa of the genus Leishmania infantrum and Viannia. The disease was mostly transmitted tiny insect (female phlebotomidae), when he happens to be contaminated, he may develop a lesion at the inoculation point (cutaneous leishmaniasis), or an internal disease, called "Kala-Azar", inducing the enlargement of the spleen and the liver. It can be fatal if not treated. Generally, the treatment consists in series of injections of GlucantimeND. Several insecticides can also be used: they will be applied on the dog, insisting on the nose area which is a risky spot.

Babesiosis. Babesiosis is a malaria-like parasitic disease caused by Babesia, a genus of protozoal piroplasms. They are microscopic blood parasites are spread from dog to dog by tick bites(releasing Babesia sporozoites), and they have been causing red blood cell destruction in their canine hosts all over the world. The disease causes anemia (lack of red blood cells) and symptoms include weakness, jaundice, fever, red or orange colored urine. Thre are injections like Imidocarb diproprionate or Dimenazene aceturate to treat the disease, but current chemotherapeutic agents used to treat canine babesiosis are incapable of completely eliminating the disease; they only are capable of limiting mortality and the severity of clinical signs. Supportive therapy such as intravenous fluids and blood transfusions should be employed when necessary. Female dogs testing positive for Babesia should not be bred.

Neosporosis. Neospora caninum is a coccidian parasite that had been confused with T. gondii. Neosporosis is a parasite that most dogs get while still in the womb of his mother. Most common noticeable condition is when a puppy isn’t thriving and has difficulty coordinating movements. Symptoms of this condition may include inflammation of the skin, tremors and seizures. In addition, a dog may seem disinterested in eating because it causes pain. can be transmitted repeatedly through successive litters and litters of their progeny. This should be considered when planning the breeding of Neospora-infected bitches. Dogs should not be fed uncooked meat, especially beef. There is no vaccine to combat neosporosis. No drugs are known to prevent transplacental transmission.

Dog Viral Infections & Diseases

An infectious disease is a clinically evident disease resulting from the presence of pathogenic microbial agents, including pathogenic viruses, pathogenic bacteria, fungi, protozoa, multicellular parasites, and aberrant proteins known as prions. Many of these pathogens causes diseases and death both on animals, plants and human. Many dog viral infections and diseases have been discovered, most of them affects dogs in their puppyhood causing your death and some carried over as they age and suddenly affects our canine companion. It is better to know them, prevent them and how properly deal these dog viral infections.

Rabies. Hydrophobia or rabies is fatal viral disease that can affect any mammal, although the close relationship of dogs with humans makes canine rabies a zoonotic (transmitted by animals) concern. The rabies virus makes its way to the brain by following the peripheral nerves. Rabies is a viral neuroinvasive disease that causes acute inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) in warm-blooded animals, it is fatal if left untreated. In some countries it is a significant killer of livestock. The symptoms starts with malaise, headache, and fever, while in later stages it includes acute pain, violent movements, uncontrolled excitements, depressions, and the inability to swallow water. final stages, the patient begins to have periods of mania and lethargy, and coma, and death generally occurs due to respiratory insufficiency. Vaccination of dogs for rabies is commonly required by law.

Canine Parvovirus. It is a contagious virus that mainly affects dog. The disease is highly infectious and is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their feces, puppies usually suffer severely if they are not protected by maternal antibodies or vaccinations. Cardiac and intestinal form were the distinct presentation of the virus. Intestinal form signs are sever vomiting and bloody diarrhea while cardiac form causes respiratory or cardiovascular failure in young puppies. Main treatment involves veterinary hospitalization and can be prevented with vaccinations.

Canine Coronavirus. A gastrointestinal disease that is usually asymptomatic or with mild clinical signs, the disease is highly contagious and is spread through the feces of infected dogs. The virus invades and replicates in the villi of the small intestine and causes death of cells. Coronavirus infection of the intestinal villi makes the cells more susceptible to parvovirus infection. Puppies are more susceptible to this virus and needs vaccinations. Treatment usually only requires medication for diarrhea, but more severely affected dogs may require intravenous fluids for dehydration.

Canine Distemper. A serious virus that mostly affects domesticated animals like dogs, cats, ferrets and more. Canine distemper virus (CDV) spreads through the aerosol droplets and through contact with infected bodily fluids including nasal and ocular secretions, feces, and urine. Puppies from three to six months old are particularly susceptible. Canine distemper virus tends to orient its infection towards the lymphoid, epithelial, and nervous tissues. Number of vaccines are available against canine distemper, and antibiotics for bacterial infections of infected dog and usually quarantined from other dogs for several months due to the length of time the animal may shed the virus.

Canine Influenza. A newly emerged infectious virus causing respiratory diseases, which discovered caused by varieties of Influenzavirus A such as H3N8 (equine virus) and dogs have no natural immunity with this virus and can be epidemic. Dogs with the more severe form may have a high fever and pneumonia, they need immediate veterinary attention.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis. Is an acute liver infection in dogs caused by canine adenovirus spread through feces, urine, blood, saliva, and nasal discharge of infected dogs. Symptoms include fever, depression, loss of appetite, coughing, and a tender abdomen. Corneal edema and signs of liver disease, such as jaundice, vomiting, and hepatic encephalopathy, while severe cases will develop bleeding disorders, which can cause hematomas to form in the mouth. Most dogs recover spontaneously without treatment bu prevention can be done through vaccinations.

Canine Herpesvirus (CHV). A fatal virus most importantly causes a fatal hemorrhagic disease in puppies less than two to three weeks old while the virus infects the reproductive tract of adult dogs and cann sexually transmitted. CHV is transmitted to puppies in the birth canal and by contact with infected oral and nasal secretions from the mother or other infected dogs. Symptoms include crying, weakness, depression, discharge from the nose, soft, yellow feces, and a loss of the sucking reflex. Treatment of affected puppies is difficult, although injecting antibodies to CHV into the abdomen may help some to survive. Keeping the puppies warm is also important.

Pseudorabies. An infectious disease that primarily affects swine, but can also cause a fatal disease in dogs with signs similar to rabies. Other domestic and wild mammals, such a cattle, sheep, dogs, pigs, raccoons, black bears, panthers, coyotes and deer are also suscetible. PRV can cause abortion, high mortality in piglets, and coughing, sneezing, fever, constipation, depression, seizures, ataxia, circling, and excess salivation in piglets and mature pigs. In dogs, symptoms include intense itching, jaw and pharyngeal paralysis, howling, and death.

Canine Minute Virus. An infectious disease that can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal signs in young puppies. Dogs and puppies are infected orally, and the virus is spread transplacentally to the fetuses. Symptoms are seen most commonly between the ages of one to three weeks and include severe diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and anorexia. In severe cases it is fatal.


Hannah Serrano is a passionate writer of http://www.americaoutdoor.com, an informative website about dog crates and pet strollers for pets and animals.

Yummy Frozen Doggie Treats

Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cube chicken or beef boillion (dog's favorite)
4 small pieces of chicken or beef

Dissolve boillion in water and tear meat into smaller pieces about 1/2 inch squares. Freeze for about 12 hours or until solid. Great for hot days.


- Frozen Peanut Butter Yogurt Treats -
Ingredients:
1-32oz. container of vanilla yogurt
1 cup of peanut butter

Put the peanut butter in a microwave safe dish and microwave until melted. Mix the yogurt and the melted peanut butter in a bowl. Pour mixture into cupcake papers and freeze.


- Garlic Bites -
Ingredients:
1 cup flour
4-6 cloves garlic
1/4 cup hot water
1/8 cup chopped nuts or seeds
1 tbs. vegetable oil
1 egg, beaten
dry milk powder

Mix all ingredients in bowl (or food processor) and add enough milk powder to make firm dough. Roll out dough to thin sheet, put flour on sheet and cut dough with cookie cutter of your choice. Place on oiled cookie sheet. Bake at 300F. for about 45 minutes, for hard lightly toasted biscuits. Let sit in turned off oven to finish drying if you like.

Chicken N Garlic Bites

Ingredients:
1 cup wheat flour
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon garlic powder ( not garlic salt!)
1 tablespoon soft butter or margarine
1/2 cup milk


Mix flour and cheese together. Add garlic powder and softened butter. Slowly add milk till you form a stiff dough. You may not need all of the milk. Knead on floured board for a few minutes. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 350 degrees oven for 15 minutes. Let cool in oven with the door slightly open till cold and firm. Refrigerate to keep fresh.

Canine Carrot Cookies

Ingredients:
2 cups carrots -- boiled and pureed
2 eggs
2 tablespoons garlic -- minced
2 cups unbleached flour – or rice or rye flour.
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup wheat germ

Combine carrots, eggs and garlic. Mix until smooth. Add dry ingredients. Roll out on heavily floured surface and cut into bars or desired shapes. Bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes or to desired crunchiness. The centers will continue to harden as they cool. Brush with egg white before baking for a glossy finish.

Boo's Biscuits

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
2 cup Quaker oats
1 cup milk
1/2 cup hot water
2 beef or chicken bouillon cubes
1/2 cup meat drippings

Dissolve bouillon cubes in hot water. Add milk and drippings and beat. In a separate bowl, mix flour and oatmeal. Pour liquid ingredients into dry ingredients and mix well. Press onto an ungreased cookie sheet and cut into shapes desired. Bake at 300 for 1 hour. Turn off heat and leave in the oven to harden. Refrigerate after baking.

Bone Bonanazas

Ingredients:
1/2 lb. ground beef, uncooked
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/3 cup mashed black beans
1/3 cup cottage cheese
1 tsp. soy sauce


Combine ground meat and chicken broth in a bowl. Add the black beans and cottage cheese. Add soy sauce. Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly. Mold the mixture into bone shapes and place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 45 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Let cool.

Dog Oral and Dental Diseases and Care

Dental and oral problems are important to learn, to prevent and to cure. Dogs may not live to the fullest if there's something that bothers on their mouth. Mouth and teeth diseases will also keep the dog owner from getting too close because of unpleasant odor. Proper hygiene and oral care is important, and it ensures our dog is healthy.

Tartar Build Up. The most common form of canine dental disease is tartar buildup. This causes irritation of the gums around the base of the teeth (gingivitis), resulting in exposure of the roots. Ultimately, this leads to infection and tooth loss. Infection will accumulate in the mouth, resulting in gingivitis, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis (sore throat). Infection within the mouth will be picked up by the blood stream and carried to other parts of the body. Kidney infections, as well as infections involving the heart valves, frequently begin in the mouth. One of the main factors determining the amount of tartar buildup is the individual chemistry in the mouth. Some dogs need yearly cleanings; other dogs need a cleaning only once every few years.


Bad Breath and Halitosis. Dog bad breath is a common problem that makes unpleasant situation for dog owners. Bad breath could keep from enjoyable playing and getting close with dogs which upsetting for dogs too. Dog halitosis bad breathe is a particularly foul and offensive odor coming from dog's mouth. While it's unpleasant, dog bad breath can also be a sign of a serious health problem like infection or any internal health issues that releases the foul odor. Furthermore symptoms like facial swelling, pawing at the mouth, sneezing, and nasal discharge can all be signs of mouth disorders. However, even if you only observe the foul odor, it's still important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian so that the cause of your pet's halitosis can be identified and treated, preventing continuation of the unpleasant odor as well as protecting your furry friend's health and happiness.


Periodontitis or Periodontal Disease. Periodontitis is the inflammation of the structures that support teeth, the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, alveolus (small cavity) and cementum (bonelike connective tissue covering the root of a tooth and assisting in tooth support). It is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world in dogs and is caused by bacteria that make up plaque. 'Periodontal' comes from two Greek words that mean 'around the tooth.' Periodontal disease is a series of changes that are associated with the inflammation and loss of the deep supporting structures of teeth. Periodontal disease is inflammation of some or all of the tooth’s support structures (gingiva, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone). When compared to gingivitis, periodontitis indicates bone loss. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria. Initially a pellicle forms on the clean tooth. This pellicle attracts aerobic gram positive bacteria (mostly actinomyces and strepococci). Soon more bacteria adhere forming plaque. With in days the plaque thickens, underlying bacteria run out of oxygen and anaerobic motile rods and spirochetes begin to populate the sub gingival area. Endotoxins released by the anaerobic bacteria cause tissue destruction and bone loss. Small breed and brachycephalic dogs are at greater risk of periodontal disease because their teeth are often crowded together. This results in an increased accumulation of plaque because the normal cleansing mechanisms are hindered. If gingivitis is left untreated, it will progress to periodontal disease which is irreversible. Periodontal Therapy is one of the treatment that controls plaque.


Mouth Infections and Stomatitis. Infection or inflammation in the mouth - stomatitis - can be caused by cuts, burns, foreign bodies stuck in the mouth, and diseases of the gums and the structures that support the teeth (periodontal disease). Metabolic diseases such as kidney failure can also cause painful stomatitis. Stick are common and potentially serious, especially those in the back of the mouth. To treat stomatitis, the cause is addressed: physical injuries are treated, foreign objects are removed, dental conditions are corrected , and any underlying metabolic disorder are controlled to prevent recurrence. Secondary bacterial infection is common, so appropriate antibiotics are almost always used.


Foreign bodies in the mouth and throat. Dogs love to chew sticks, stones, bones and other hard materials but also potentially dangerous: sticks can cause damage to the mouth and can also crack teeth, especially molars. This may lead to tooth-pulp exposure and infection. Sticks can also lodge in the back of the throat, too far for easy removal with a spoon handle. A dog with something in its throat gags, paws anxiously at its mouth, and may drool or vomit. A foreign body in the throat may cause swelling that interferes with breathing. If the object blocks the voice box, the dog chokes and faints. Treat the dog immediately for choking. For severe cases, surgery is needed. Always supervise what the dogs chew, or rather give them balls and other chewing toys instead of sticks and other not safe to chew materials.


Dog Mouth Tumors. Tumors are uncommon but can occur on the gums, tongue or roof of mouth, or in the salivary glands. When possible they are surgically removed, followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy.


Dog Oral Examination. The annual physical exam must include an oral exam to recognize problems with teeth, periodontal disease, and other oral diseases. The comprehensive oral exam begins by observing the face, recognizing that there are normal breed variations but carefully observing for abnormalities.


Diet and Chewing Behavior. Studies show that hard kibbles are slightly better than canned foods at keeping plaque from accumulating on the teeth. Dogs that chew on various toys or edible dental chews may remove some of the plaque build-up.


Home Care. The owner plays an important role in the oral health care for their companion animals. We consider the pet owner and the family veterinarian as key members of our dental health care team. Out Comprehensive Oral health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) as well as all of our services may be ineffective without the pet owner's involvement. It is important that the pet owner has interest in their pets' oral health. Regular teeth brushing are strongly recommended because it is a huge benefit for pets and it allows for close observation for oral problems.


Hannah Serrano is a passionate writer of http://www.americaoutdoor.com, an informative website about dog crates and pet strollers pets and animals.