Blastomycosis Checklist for Dogs
Dog owners need to be alert to the possible existence of the fungal organism Blastomyces dermatitidis, which can be found in sandy, acidic soils close to water or in swampy, low-lying areas. It is especially prevalent in certain areas of Mississippi, Missouri, the Ohio River Valley, as well as the Mid-Atlantic States, but it can occur almost anywhere. The resulting systemic fungal disease, blastomycosis, is serious, affecting primarily dogs and humans. It creates a variety of symptoms. Early detection is critical to successful treatment and rate of survival.
Hunting dogs and those that love to take to the woods and swamps, or those living by water, are especially vulnerable. On a chase, with his nose to the ground, a dog can inhale spores that harbor in the soil. If the dog has a healthy immune system, there is likelihood that the disease will not develop. If, however, the spores are abundant, or if the dog’s immune system is compromised, there is risk of infection. Spores travel down the airways of the lungs, and the disease begins. It then spreads throughout the body and can affect the skin, eyes, bones, lymph nodes, subcutaneous tissue, brain, and testes. Blastomycosis can wax and wane with symptoms improving, only to worsen later.
Refer to this checklist of symptoms if you suspect your dog has been exposed to this organism:
1. Lack of appetite
2. Weight loss
3. Cough
4. Eye problems
5. Lameness
6. Skin problems
7. Blood in urine
8. Shortness of breath
9. Exercise intolerance
10. Enlarged lymph glands
11. Persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics
This important checklist can be printed and shared with your veterinarian. Arriving at a diagnosis can sometimes be difficult. Your veterinarian will consider the history and symptoms and seek to identify the organism under a microscope or through a blood test. Treatment is required in the case of a positive identification because dogs are not able to fight off this fungal disease without support.
Treatment options include the oral administration of Itaconazole. This is an expensive drug, and some dogs cannot tolerate it. Injectable Amphotericin B can also be used. It is administered intravenously and under close veterinary supervision. Ketoconazole (Nizoral) is another treatment option, especially helpful in mild cases of the disease and where cost is a factor.
Please note that, with Blastomycosis, prevention is easier than the cure. Avoid taking dogs to regions of high risk or incidence and places with disturbed areas of moist soil. Awareness of the disease and its symptoms is the best defense against it.
Brent Goodman holds degrees in English from Ripon College, a Masters of Fine Arts from Purdue University, and has extensive experience in research communications and educational publishing across various fields of study. He is currently the Senior Copywriter at Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, the nation’s leading online and catalog pet supplier.
Potty-Professor.
House Training E-Book From The Author Of Doggy Be Good.
Potty-Professor.
Dog Grooming
The amount and kind of grooming of your dogs coat is determined by the dogs fur type, length, and the animals life style. Short coats will need less brushing or combing than those with longer fur. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors will need more frequent grooming than dogs that live indoors. Grooming your dogs coat will prevent skin problems by keeping it free from fleas and ticks. Dogs also need regular ear inspections and cleaning, toenail trimming, tooth inspections and cleaning, and bathing.
A common misconception is that a dog should be bathed as seldom as possible, you may wash your dog as often as necessary. However you must use a special shampoo, one that will not strip the natural oils from your dogs coat. When bathing your dog you may choose to shampoo the dogs body, legs, and feet first followed by the head. Be sure to use warm water when giving your dog a bath, apply a gentle shampoo and lather well, be very careful not to get any shampoo in your dogs eyes. Rinse your dog throughly and dry with a course towel. Any soap left on the dogs skin may cause itching so be sure to rinse throughly. As recommended by your veterinarian apply a flea dip, spray or a powder.
Your dogs ears should be cleaned approximately every two weeks. Folded or hairy ears need to be cleaned more frequently than erect or basically bare ears. Check your dogs ears for any unusual discharge or odor. If you suspect possible ear infection bring this to the attention of your veterinarian. Use only a damp towel or soft cloth around your finger to clean the outer most visible parts of the ear. You may also use a cotton swab with mineral oil for cleaning. Small bits of ear wax need not be removed, this will help to protect the ear canal. Do not clean out an ear that looks infected, leave this up to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may recommend plucking or using tweezers to gently remove hairs that tend to block air circulation and contribute to infection within your dogs ear.
Plaque and tarter can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. To prevent oral disease regular brushing every 2-3 days is highly recommended for your dog. You may use canine tooth paste in moderate amounts or a mixture of baking soda and water (scrub the teeth from crown to gum.). You may substitute a gauze pad rapped around your finger for a tooth brush. Dry food and hard chew toys may reduce the formation of tarter. However this does not eliminate the need for brushing.
Although bone chewing is natural for a dog it may cause splinters of bone to be ingested. This may cause digestive upsets or internal injuries and also may result in broken teeth. Supplement a rawhide strip or special chew toy in place of bones. If yours dogs gums are bleeding, appear reddened or recede from the surface of the teeth check with your veterinarian.
When trimming your dogs nails cut only the transparent part of the nail. Close clipping can cut into the “quick” the portion of the nail that has nerves and blood vessels and hurt the animal. There are special clippers that can be purchased for trimming your dogs nails.
Grooming your dog will build on the pride of ownership. Remember, your dogs appearance may very will be a reflection of your own. Strive to bring your dog the very best in quality care. http://smartestdogbreeds.com
A. Licata, freelance artist/writer of quality content and information for all who have an enthusiasm and love for dogs.?? http://smartestdogbreeds.com
Dog Grooming Tips
Many people overlook the importance of grooming their dog to their overall health and well-being. Grooming is an essential part of caring for your dog, and should be done on a regular basis for the best results. Some of the benefits your pet will reap are increased skin oils resulting in a beautiful, healthy coat, a decrease in skin problems, less shedding around the house and car, and a more obedient pet, just to name a few.
You will need plenty of patience to groom and style your dog if you plan to do it on a regular basis, especially if it does not like this type of treatment. You will need to learn a few tips, ideas, and professional hints on grooming your pet if you ever want your pet to have show quality care by you. A knowledgeable professional pet groomer will be able to give you advice on not just how to groom your dog, but on how to care for your dog as well. You will be pleased to find out that qualified, experienced pet groomers offer seminars for advice and trimming demonstrations for your dog.
It is a good idea to start using environmentally safe and animal friendly (non-toxic) substitutes when grooming your dog. You must groom your dog’s whole body including the legs, tail, and underbody if you want to do it right. You must groom certain dogs from the skin outward to truly be effective in taking care of their coat of hair and keeping it healthy. Comb through the unseen healthy hair and remove the shedding hair; this is what most groomers do first before cutting your pet’s coat. You must groom some animals all at once, while some other animals have so much hair that it is easier to do a little at a time each day.
You know your dog is well-mannered when it will sit still and allow you or a professional to perform regular grooming and maintenance without any fuss. The more often you groom your dog, the better he will be at receiving your attentions and responding to your commands. This will also strengthen the bond between you.
Last but not least, you might want to rethink your choice to get a dog if you are not ready to handle all the responsibility of grooming and feeding one. If you don’t have the time or the desire to do it yourself, than its time to call the professionals. Yours dog will love you for it, and you’ll feel great about it too.
I own both dogs and horses, and have shown both. You can get more pet grooming tips by visiting my site at Pet Grooming Tips
Dog Health Care Article: How Your Dog Gets Fleas and How to Get Rid of Them
In this article, “How You Dog Gets Fleas And How To Get Rid Of Them”, we will discuss the methods by which your dog can become infested with fleas. In addition, we will discuss a bit about the life cycle of fleas and how flea and tick treatments can stop the flea life cycle dead.
Fleas are those nasty little insects that periodically infect our cats, dogs and homes. Fleas feed on the blood of our pets. They can irritate their skin not only from the bite and skin infections, but also some pets are allergic to fleas.
Fleas are the most common cause of skin problems in dogs and cats. If you notice your dog scratching and chewing the back half of its body, check for fleas around the base of the tail, the back side of the hind legs or the dogs stomach.
No matter how clean our homes are, our dogs can encounter fleas on their daily excursions outside. They then bring this insect home on their fur and the cycle of infestation starts. The adult flea lays eggs which drop off the dog all over the house: in the pets bed, on couches, in the carpet, around the baseboards, practically anywhere your dog is allowed to roam in the house and car. These eggs hatch, become larvae, and develop into cocoons where they develop into adult fleas, and the cycle begins again.
There are many over the counter preparations which can kill the flea, but do nothing to stop the cycle. Because there are still eggs, larvae and cocoons around the pets living environment. Through your veterinarian you can obtain either a topical or oral preparation. One method kills the fleas before they lay the eggs and the other kills the eggs that have been laid on your pet. Both are equally safe and harmless to the pet and its family. Both methods require monthly dosages of medication on a permanent basis to prevent re-infestation. Your veterinarian will prescribe the best medication for your particular pet and the dosage will be according to your pets weight. As your pet grows, the dosage will change. Not only will your pet and home be flea-free, but the chances for your pet being infected with tapeworms will also decrease.
Consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to start a monthly routine to save your pet the irritations caused by fleas.
Terrie Simpson has been involved in the dog world for over 28 years and has achieved numerous awards with her Springer Spaniels in tracking and obedience. Over that time, she has amassed a good amount of knowledge about how to keep a dog healthy. **Terrie is also a part of the K9 KlearUp team – K9 KlearUp is an Organic Dog Balm guaranteed to help clear up your dog’s skin & coat problems, INCLUDING FLEA BITES! Go to www.k9klearup.com for more details…
Secrets of Basic Management Skills Training Course!
Become a successful and respected manager by learning powerful secrets of decision making, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. Take charge of your future now!
Secrets of Basic Management Skills Training Course!
The Chinese Shar-Pei Dog Breed Essential Tips And Info
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a great family dog that has an expensive, exotic look. She is loving toward the family yet she makes a great watchdog and guard dog. She was originally bred to fight so she may fight other dogs. Take care to have her under control when walking her.
Good With Children?
They are good with older children, especially if they have been socialized at an early age. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
Good With Other Pets?
They can tend to fight. Some are good with other animals if they are socialized with them early on.
Trainability
They are highly intelligent but may be manipulative. They really require an experienced owner.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Chinese Powder Puff is 18 to 20 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 35 to 45 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Chinese Shar-Pei is no exception. Be on the look out for skin problems, fevers, and amolydosis (kidney failure). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Chinese Shar-Pei has a short, harsh coat with plenty of loose skin on the head and body. You should check folds of skin regularly to insure that there is no irritation. Brush daily if possible to help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Chinese Shar-Pei can live between 7 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
Chinese Shar-Pei History
They are an ancient breed from China dating back to 200 BC. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1991.
For more information on the Chinese Crested or a complete list of dog breeds visit this Dog Behaviour website.
Prevent Boils
Prevent Boils is a new ebook that helps boils sufferes cure their boils problem naturally without harsh chemicals or doctor prescribed drugs.
Prevent Boils
Pugapoo Puppy & Dog Information
The Pugapoo is a crossbreed variety of dog. This unique hybrid is the result of crossing a Poodle and a Pug, classified as an F1. Since the Pugapoo is a crossbreed, the appearance can vary, taking the square, muscular appearance of the Pug or the leaner build of the Poodle.
Pugs are intelligent and good natured dogs that enjoy the company of people and take well to training. The Poodle is very intelligent and loves to be around people. The combination of these two breeds is thought to be a good match, though it is hard to predict which characteristics will dominate.
Given the diversity of these traits, it is hard to predict which characteristics will dominate. Subsequent breedings to the F2 or F3 level can dramatically alter the appearance and temperament from the original F1.
Approximate Adult Size
As with many hybrid breeds, Pugapoo size and weight will vary widely. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of either the male or female is 6 to 14 inches at the withers. The withers are measured at the highest point of the shoulder. The weight of an adult Pugapoo could range between 8 and 18 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain health conditions problems associated with that specific breed. Poodles are prone to ear and eye infections, spinal problems and heart disease. Pugs have a lower incidence of health problems than most breeds. Poodles are prone to glaucoma and epilepsy. As with most hybrids and the introduction of multi-generational breeding, a full understanding of potential health issues is difficult.
This disease list is provided only as an informative guideline and your Pugapoo may not experience these conditions. Consult a veterinary professional for more comprehensive information. As with any dog, the puppy stage, 0 to 12 months of age, is the time for shots, boosters and check up. As an adult, the dog should have an annual veterinary checkup including a dental exam and cleaning. Avoid feeding your dog sweets and certain human foods. Check with a veterinary professional for advise on your dogs diet.
Pugapoo Grooming
The coat of Pugapoo will vary from the short coat of the Pug to the softer, curly coat of the Poodle. Regular brushing will help maintain a clean and healthy coat. Pugapoos may display the skin folds common to the pug and these folds must examined and cleaned on a regular basis. The process of grooming provides an opportunity to examine the dog for skin problems and strengthen the emotional bond between you and your dog.
Dental health is important and the teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities and periodontal disease. Poor canine dental hygiene can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious health conditions.
The claws should be trimmed regularly and the paws examined for signs of injury.
Pugapoo Life Span
With proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions, a Pugapoo should be able to live a long and healthy life. Given the hybrid nature of these dogs, an accurate prediction of life expectancy is not possible.
Pugapoo Registries
American Canine Hybrid Club
As a hybrid breed, the Pugapoo is not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club, Continental Kennel Club or their affiliated organizations.
Pugapoo Litter Size
Litter size is said to average between 3 and 8 puppies.
Category
Hybrid
Every dog is an individual so not everything in this article may be correct for your dog.
This information is intended only as a good faith guideline.
Mitch Endick is a staff writer for the quality online store LumbarSupportRecliner.com. LumbarSupportRecliner.com offers quality recliners by Lane with lumbar support. Visit LumbarSupportRecliner.com today for Lane Comfort King, Big Man recliners.