Obesity and Your Dog

By Raquel Cervera, Ph.D.

We keep watching the tremendous problem obesity has come to be in the United States and one has to wonder when are we going to end this so both, our children and adult population can live a healthier and longer life. It is something to really worry about. But obesity does not only apply to us humans; our pets can also suffer from it if we are not paying the correct attention to this important subject. We will concentrate here in obesity in our dogs.

Scientists explain that "obesity is a nutritional disease which is defined by an excess of body fat." It seems natural for everyone to know that anything in excess accumulates if it cannot be eliminated, but is it? If that were the case, obesity would not exist, simply because anything eaten would be eliminated naturally by the body. Well, we know that is not the case, not in humans and not in dogs.

Dog owners that are not very well documented on the subject do sometimes over nourish their dogs, and the consequences are only to be expected. They will get fat or even obese. If these dog owners do not give the adequate importance to exercising their dogs and just feed them and let them lay on the couch all day, they are simply contributing to the obesity of these animals with all the terrible consequences that carries.

We have to remember that the lifespan of dogs is not the same as ours and, if we love them and want to keep them with us for many years, the fact of letting them become obese will definitely result in reducing this, sometimes by a lot. Many think that a dog that is just a little fat, or moderately obese, will not suffer those consequences. Wrong!

When we think about a body, we have to think about systems. Correct? Well, if we do, and start considering, for example, the skeletal system, which includes the bones and joints, we have to accept that the excess weight will affect these directly. What about the respiratory system? Do obese humans breathe easily or are they more prone to suffer from respiratory problems of all kinds? The same happens with the organs that are responsible for the breathing in dogs. And, just to mention two more ones, the digestive system always suffers when it has to work in excess and the cardiovascular system is directly affected by obesity.

If you have rescued a dog and neutered it or if you have done the same with your female dog that has already given birth the correct number of times, be aware that your dog is among those more prone to gain weight.

Since puppies and young dogs are usually much more active than middle age or older dogs, that helps them with the weight problem, but when a dog enters middle or old age, you have to watch out for the obesity, because that level of activity has normally diminished considerably and that enemy may want to show its face in your dog's life.

When facing a physical problem, the intelligent thing to do is to try to look for its cause. That is why exams are practiced for the medical equipment to reach a proper diagnosis. In the case we are talking about, there are a possible number of causes for obesity in dogs that have to be watched for. Always be aware of the following, besides the two causes mentioned before:

• The type of foods given to the dog. High caloric content should be avoided except if indicated by the veterinarian because of a particular reason.


• Treats given too frequently and for no reason at all.


• Possible problems with the thyroid. Hypothyroidism is another cause of obesity in dogs.


• Diabetes.


• Adrenal conditions.

It is not so complicated to help your dog keep a healthy body weight and avoid obesity at all costs. Of course, the best and definitely indicated fountain of information as to what to do is your veterinarian, who will recommend what she considers the best for your particular dog.

The clear first step will be to put your dog on a diet that is adequate for it. Low fat and fiber and protein rich ones are typically indicated. Protein stimulates the metabolism, and this contributes to more fat being burned, and also helps your dog feel full more easily, and fiber is well known for its effects on the intestinal metabolism.

You want to enjoy your dog as much as possible, so it will always be your responsibility to watch for possible signs of obesity in it that will not only make it feel uncomfortable and with lack of enthusiasm or energy, but limit its life and health in general.

The author is running a site and a blog related to dog training, dog care and health and also dog grooming. For more information on how to have the best dog, visit:

dog training and dog care

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raquel_Cervera,_Ph.D.

Pet Strollers: No Zipper Means No Hassle

By Cecelia Brown

Pet strollers provide a unique experience for dogs, cats, rabbits and even ferrets to enjoy the outdoors when it may not otherwise be possible. Many pet owners choose to own a stroller because they have an injured or elderly pet, while others utilize one for an animal that can't walk on a leash.

Pet Gear is a company that designs pet strollers and other pet accessories in the USA. Their latest creation is a compartment that does not require a zipper for entry. The No-Zip technology involves a clasp on the front of the pet compartment that secures the canopy closed. Alternatively, the canopy can open part way or be pushed out of the way entirely. The compartment has a hidden metal bar that provides an elevated paw rest for your pet if he or she prefers a different view of the outdoors. Most pet strollers have a long zipper that opens the compartment in order to put your pet inside. This process is often cumbersome when you want to quickly get your pet in or out of the stroller.

Pet Gear presently makes three strollers with the No-Zip technology: the Happy Trails, the Special Edition and the NV. The Happy Trails and Special Edition strollers have historically been very popular models in the traditional zippered style, while the NV is a new model. The Happy Trails is a smaller, lightweight stroller that will carry pets up to 35 pounds. The Special Edition is a three-wheeled stroller, with a swiveling front wheel, that will carry pets up to 45 pounds. The NV is a more robust model that has a locking front wheel. This stroller is easy to control while traveling on any type of terrain, and it will carry pets up to 70 pounds. The tires are air-filled and it even comes with a weather cover.

All three Pet Gear No-Zip strollers use durable 600 Denier polyester fabric that is easy to spot clean. They have a comfortable fleece pad inside the compartment, an easy, one-hand, folding mechanism, an elevated paw rest, interior safety tether, a large panoramic view through the front and top of the stroller, and a comfortable handle height, to keep you from kicking the wheels when you walk behind the stroller.

Nearly all pet strollers utilize a zipper for entry and exit to the compartment. Pet Gear found a way to make this process easier with their easy-locking latch design.

Cecelia Brown is a licensed mental health professional who believes that pet ownership will improve quality of life. Please visit her website: http://www.PerfectPetStroller.com to find out more about Pet Strollers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cecelia_Brown

Dry or Wet Dog Food: Which Is Better?

By Dr Ken Tudor

Have you been feeding dry dog food to your dog only because you were told that it prevented tarter and dental disease? Do you feel guilty when you add canned food because of the harm that it may cause? Dry food does not prevent dental disease and wet or canned food does not cause dental problems. Each type of dog food has its own benefits and drawbacks. A combination of wet and dry combines the best of both foods.

The Dog's Unique Feeding Style

The belief that dry food prevents dental disease is derived from the belief that chewing causes abrasion on the tooth surfaces to prevent or shave off tarter. And that is true, but dogs do not chew their food! Anyone who has witnessed or stepped in dog vomit knows that the vomit looks just like the food, just wetter.

As pack animals, dogs killed and feasted in very competitive groups. Individuals tore flesh from the carcass swallowed and then repeatedly dove back into the frenzy for more. Taking the time to chew would have meant less food and possibly starvation.

This feeding habit has not changed in our modern dogs. Examination of a modern dog's mouth reveals that they share the same sharp, pointed teeth of their flesh eating ancestors. They grab, maybe crunch once, swallow and grab again. No abrasive cleaning action of the teeth takes place during a meal.

Dental Tarter and Food Type

Wild dogs and cats don't eat any dry food. Studies show that they have less dental tarter than pets fed commercial food, wet or dry. The fact is that dental disease is more complicated than what type of food is eaten. Dental hygiene is less dependent on diet and more dependent on routine care. Regular teeth brushing and availability of hard chew toys has a greater impact on dental health than the type of food. Owners can be comforted that they can feed how they want without guilt.

Dry Dog Food

The major benefits of dry food are convenience and price. Open the bag and scoop, no mess. This makes traveling with a dog much easier. It is also very inexpensive compared to wet food. A 50lb dog can be fed for as low as 13 cents a day.

The major drawbacks of dry food are its quality and the reluctance of dogs to eat it when they are ill.

All ingredients of dry food are put in huge pressure cookers and turned into a liquid at high temperatures. This means any form of protein, carbohydrate or fat can be used. That is why this method is perfect for using meat, grain and processed food scraps as well dead, decayed animals rather than real cuts of meats and whole grains and vegetables.

After the hot slurry reaches the proper time and temperature it is injected through super-heated extruders. As the liquid leaves the extruders the cold air causes it to "pop" into various shapes depending on the mold of the extruder exit. The dry kibble is then sprayed with oil and vitamins before bagging to replenish some of the nutrients lost in this double heat process.

Dry kibble will not "pop" without sufficient carbohydrates. That is why dry dog food tends to be lower in protein and higher in carbohydrates than wet or canned food.

Although dogs eat their dry food when they are healthy, they often refuse to eat it when they feel ill. The refusal to eat can lower their nutritional status and ability to heal. This downward spiral often leaves these dogs very fragile when they are finally taken to the vet. Would you eat shredded wheat without milk if you were sick?

Canned Dog Food

The major benefits of canned food are taste and quality. Only rarely will sick dogs refuse to eat canned food. When wet food is mixed with dry food, dogs eat more heartily. The larger variety of flavors of canned foods allows for more diversity in the diet. Canned food is generally higher in protein than dry food. With canning, ingredients are cooked in the sealed can so nutrients are not lost during the heating process.

A major drawback of wet food is that it is more expensive than dry food. Also many owners object to the smell of canned food and dislike storing partial cans in the refrigerator. And certainly opening a can is more complicated than scooping from a bag.

Why Not Feed Both?

Since food is not a culprit in dental disease, why not spice up your dog's diet with a combination of canned and dry food? Using the wet enhances the quality, flavor and enthusiasm for mealtime. Adding the dry reduces food costs. Everybody wins. Having wet food available can help maintain your dog's appetite during illness.

Dr. Ken Tudor is an expert in the field of pet nutrition and fitness. He founded Hearthstone Homemade for Dogs. This integrated program was developed to provide owners a healthier alternative to commercial dog food. To learn more about homemade dog food, visit his website athttp://www.hearthstonehomemade.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Ken_Tudor

Greet a Cute Puppy Home - Realize Your Responsibility As a Pet Owner

By Andrew More

Few things are as pleasing and relaxing as playing with a small puppy. However, before you welcome this cute member to your family, consider going through this article.

Bringing a new pet home is an exciting venture, especially when you do it for the first time. However, the process isn't as simple as it might seem to you; in fact, there are many vital considerations related to this process. Puppies are unbelievably cute and adorable, almost impossible to resist when choosing one to stay with you for a decade or so. However, before you go ahead and buy one, make sure that you're ready to take on this big responsibility. Remember, your puppy won't stay cute and adorable for the rest of its life. If you stay unmindful or careless, it may even cut your favorite pair of shoes into pieces. Hence, it's very important to realize whether you're ready to undertake this responsibility or not.

Can I afford a puppy?

This is possibly the most vital question of all, since affording a pet is far beyond merely buying it. From food and medicines to clothing and accessories, you could end up spending a hefty amount on your pet. Are you ready for such responsibilities? When you bring a puppy home, it becomes an important part of your family. Hence, you must consider whether you are ready for such commitments - both financially as well as emotionally.

Is your home suitable for your puppy?

Dogs, especially puppies, are highly sneaky. If there's food left on the floor or there's something nice and eatable, your pet may turn it into pieces. Hence, it needs proper guidance and training for living with you in your house. This will be a huge learning experience for you as well as your pet. For this, you may either hire a dog trainer or go through online dog training tips. If you pamper and spoil your pet, chances are that it'll cause problems in the coming days. If you live in a rented house or apartment, you must check whether the landlord allows pets.

Is your lifestyle suitable for your puppy?

If you tour a lot, go out for night parties, or work for long hours, you must sacrifice a little and make slight adjustments for your pet. For those who can't do that, it's better to give up the idea of pet ownership. From exercise and training to grooming and veterinary care, you must give the necessary time and attention to your puppy.

Remember, puppies are as delicate and sensitive as small babies. Hence, you must consider all the above mentioned points before undertaking the big responsibility.

Andrew more writes articles for mini pups, one of the leading online stores dealing in dogs for sale Toronto. For those in search of cute yorktese for sale, this is the right place to visit.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_More

Death of a Dog - How Do You Know When the Right Time Has Come? Tips You May Find Helpful

By Annelie Becher

Dog parents have one goal in common: We want our dogs to be happy and we do not want them to suffer when they have acquired a terminal illness. Due to the advances in veterinary medicine many diseases are now treatable and curable. This blessing comes with a downside since more and more dogs are exposed to very invasive treatments only to be put down shortly after they have completed those treatments. Side effects cause additional suffering, surgery puts dogs under massive stress.

Being a responsible, loving owner you want to give your friend a fair chance to recuperate and regain a good quality of life if there is such a possibility. On the other hand you don't want to make him suffer.

Loving your dog also means wanting to keep him with you for as long a time as possible, you fear nothing more than his death.

This massive conflict is not easily overcome and we struggle to reach the best decision for our friend whilst at the same time hope to avoid losing our pal.

Here is what I found helpful:

1. Ask the vet what he would do if his dog was in your dog's position. Insist on an honest answer.

2. Browse the web for cases similar to your dog's. Read different stories and their outcomes.

3. Consider the treatment options. What side effects may your dog have to put up with? Is the suggested treatment really effective? Does it cure the condition or just alleviate symptoms?

4. Take time to talk with your dog. Ask him or her what she would like to happen. Answers may come as images, dreams or other signs.

5. Ask yourself what you would like to happen if you were in your dog's position.

6. Do a reality check: Would you be able to afford a life long medical treatment if necessary? Would you be able to carry your dog or nurse him every day? What would your dog's quality of life be like if he permanently had to put up with restrictions on movement, exercises or such like?

7. If you feel you can't possibly determine your dog's wishes ask an animal communicator or shaman for help.

8. Most of all, trust your vibes! Your dog will let you know when he is ready to cross the rainbow bridge. Remember that his soul is eternal. He will leave his body but his soul will continue.

It is only natural that we want to keep our pets with us for as long as possible. Just like any other being we want to avoid pain and heartache. The problem is that our wish to avoid pain may lead us to condemn our furry friends to experience pain for longer than they would be prepared to choose if they were given the choice.

I personally think that a treatment which promises to restore health and normal function within a responsible time frame is a good option even if things don't look good at the beginning. If, however, the treatment only alleviates symptoms and leaves the dog severely handicapped it would not be my choice.

Loving a dog means putting his interest before our own when it comes to reaching the last and final decision. If you trust your heart and let him guide you, you will in the end do what is best for him and his soul will be grateful.

Deciding what's best for your dog in case of a potentially fatal disease can be heartbreaking. I am here to help you and your dog reach the best possible solution in this difficult situation. I have years of experience with the dogs of client's and my own dogs. We can work via Skype or telephone. One of my specialities is induced animal communication where you yourself can talk with your dog. I can also help you get in touch with a dog who has already crossed the rainbow bridge. You can contact me, Psychologist Martina Annelie Becher athttp://www.dogsandhappiness.com or via Skype ID martina.annelie I'd love to help you and your dog in any situation!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annelie_Becher