Most dogs like a little alone time now and then. However, some dogs are extremely people-oriented and will act out when they are left alone. This is called separation anxiety.

Dogs with this affliction will show it within 20-45 minutes after you leave.

Typical behaviors are:

• Digging, gnawing, and scratching at doors and windows inside, and gates and fences outside. This is an attempt to break out of confinement and reconnect with their owners.
• Barking, whining and howling to try to get you to come back.
• Going potty in the house (even housetrained dogs) as a result of anguish.

Why do dogs develop separation anxiety?

We don’t fully understand why some dogs develop separation anxiety and others don’t. However, the destruction and house soiling that often marks separation anxiety are not your dog’s efforts to chastise or seek revenge with you for going away. Actually, these behaviors are the signs of a panic response.

Separation anxiety can occur:

• When you are leaving your dog alone for the first time.
• Following a long period, such as a long holiday weekend or vacation, when you have spent constant time with your dog.
• After a distressing event (from the dog’s viewpoint), such as time spent in a shelter or a first-time kennel stay.
• After altering the family’s routine or structure (a son or daughter leaving the home, a new job that keeps you away longer, a move to a new home, or introducing a new pet or person into the home).

How do I know if my dog has it?

Because there are many causes for the behaviors connected to separation anxiety, it’s important to properly identify the reason for the behavior before deciding on the right treatment.

If most, or all, of the statements that follow are true about your dog, it may be a separation anxiety problem:

• The behavior happens only or mostly when he is alone.
• He follows you around the house when you are home.
• He is overenthusiastic and frenetic when he greets you upon returning.
• The behavior happens regardless of how long he is left alone.
• He becomes excited, saddened, or anxious when you are getting ready to leave.
• He doesn’t like to spend time outside alone.

What should I do if my dog has separation anxiety?

For a slight separation anxiety issue, the following methods may be helpful by themselves. For more severe problems, these methods should be used along with the desensitization process explained in the next section.

• When you come home or leave your dog, keep it simple. For example, when you return from work, pay no attention to your dog for a short time, preferably until he sits or calms down a bit. Then you can pet and acknowledge him. It’s hard, especially when they are so happy, but it is an important step!
• Leaving a piece of clothing, such as a t-shirt you’ve just worn, can have a calming effect on your dog, because it has your scent.
• Create a “safety cue”–an action or word that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you’ll be back. Dogs learn to associate definite cues with the knowledge that you will come back. For example, when you go out to pick up the paper, your dog knows you come right back and doesn’t become worried. Therefore, it’s good to connect a safety cue with your short excursions.

Safety cue examples are turning on a radio or a television when you leave. Another is giving your dog a particular toy (one that doesn’t have dangerous fillings and can’t be torn into pieces) only when you go out. Use your safety cue while you train your dog. Never use your safety cue when you will be out longer than he’s prepared for; if you do, the safety cue will be useless.

If your dog’s separation anxiety behaviors include destructive chewing, a good safety cue would be a hard rubber toy like those that can be filled with treats or Nylabone®-like products.

Desensitization methods for severe cases

The prime treatment for more severe issues of separation anxiety is a systematic process of helping your dog to remain calm when alone. During this process, you will slowly get your dog to change his behavior when you are getting ready to leave and when you are going out for short periods.

The steps are as follows:

• Start by going through your normal routine, such as putting on your jacket and getting your keys out, and then sit back down. Repeat this step until your dog shows no anguish or excitement in reaction to your routine.
• Next, go through your routine and go to the door and open it, then sit back down.
• Next, step outside the door, but don’t close it, then return.
• Finally, step outside, close the door, and then come right back in. Slowly get your dog comfortable with being alone with the door closed between you for a couple of seconds. Progress gradually from step to step, and repeat each step until your dog shows zero signs of anguish.

You may have to repeat each step many times depending on the severity of the anxiety. If during any of these steps your dog shows anxiety behavior, you’ve moved too fast. Return to the preceding step in the process and practice until the dog shows no distress then move to the next step.

Once your dog is accepting of your being outside with the door closed for a few seconds, you can start with short time absences. Begin by giving your dog a verbal cue (for example, “Stay, I’ll return”), leaving, and then coming back within a minute. When you enter, keep it low-key. Ignore your dog for a while, and then greet him quietly and evenly.

If he shows no signs of anguish, repeat the exercise. If he appears uneasy, wait until he calms down to repeat the process. Gradually add to the amount of time you are away.
You should work on this step often being away less than ten minutes. If your dog remains calm and receptive, you can leave many times during a single session. Be sure to scatter your training throughout the day.

Once you have worked up to 30 to 90 minutes absences, your dog should be able to handle longer times without having to repeat the process each time you leave. The toughest part is when you begin, yet the task becomes easier as you move through the steps. Be sure to go slowly at first. The time it will take to get your dog used to being alone will depend on how severe the anxiety is.

Sit-stay and down-stay commands

A helpful command to train your anxious dog is “sit” or “down” combined with “stay.” The concept is to move out of your dog’s eyesight as he remains in this position. He will learn that it is okay to stay while you are gone and that you will return. To do this, start by giving the command and rewarding him with a treat and lots of “good boys.” Then, move a few steps away, come back, and reward him.

Progressively move farther away until you are out of his eyesight. As he improves, you can do this while you perform your normal routine. For example, if you’re reading the paper with your dog close by you may get up to answer phone or get a snack. When you get up to leave, give the sit or down command along with the stay command.

When you return, give him a reward with lots of praise. Never scold your dog during any training. He is trying to learn so he can please you!

Short-term solutions

All of the processes and treatments we have described can be long-term commitments. With separation anxiety, immediate help may be needed for your dog to protect him and your property from the damage he could cause under stress. These ideas may help you and your dog to deal with the anxiety in the interim:

• Discuss with your veterinarian if drug therapy would be good for your dog. A proper anti-anxiety prescription should reduce his anxiety while you’re gone without sedating him. These drugs are temporary solutions, not replacements for the behavior modification steps discussed earlier.
• Bring your dog to a daycare facility or hire a professional pet sitter to watch him during the day.
• Ask a friend, family member or neighbor to watch your dog while you are gone.
• If it’s allowed, bring your dog to work with you.

The “Don’ts” of separation anxiety treatment

• Never punish your dog. While separation anxiety can be frustrating (for both of you), punishment for destructive behavior quite simply does not work. In fact, punishing your dog after you return home may make the symptoms of separation anxiety worse.
• Don’t get another pet in hopes it will solve the problem. Separation anxiety is a result of being away from you, not simply being on his own.
• Don’t leave your dog in a crate for long periods of time. Confinement does not reduce anxiety and destructive behavior, such as fouling the crate, may still occur, but now he is stuck there, something most animals don’t like. This could lead to injuries if he then tries to escape from the crate.
• Don’t leave a radio or television on (unless your dog has been conditioned that this is a “safety cue,” as described above).
• Don’t rely on obedience training to fix the problem. Don’t take this the wrong way–obedience training is a very important part of raising a dog. It will not, however, fully solve a separation anxiety problem. Separation anxiety is not the effect of disobedience or lack of training; it’s a panic response.

Source: Adapted from the Humane Society of the United States

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Leukemia in dogs is a form of cancer that results in an increased white blood cell count in the blood stream and bone marrow. It can be acute or chronic with the acute form being more malignant.

There are two main types of canine leukemia. Lymphocytic leukemia is caused by cancerous cells in the lymph nodes, and myelogenous leukemia is caused by cancerous cells in the bone marrow.

Symptoms in dogs may worsen, and the condition can result in death if treatment is not given. If you see the signs in your dog, you should consult your veterinarian right away.

Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for leukemia in dogs.

Symptoms Of Leukemia In Dogs

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The symptoms of leukemia in dogs will vary depending on the type and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Acute canine leukemia symptoms worsen quickly and must be treated immediately. It tends to affect middle-aged to older dogs after the age of six.

Here are some symptoms of acute leukemia that you should look out for:

• Pale gums
• Pale or white color in the tongue
• Lack of appetite or weight loss
• Weakness
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Increased thirst or dehydration
• Irregular breathing and heart rate
• Lethargy
• Bruising or bleeding easily
• Recurring infections or delayed healing
• Chronic diarrhea
• Lameness
• Aggression or behavioral changes

Symptoms of chronic leukemia may not be as easy to spot at first, as the condition can take months or even years to fully develop. Some dogs show no signs at all when they receive a diagnosis.

Many times the condition is discovered through routine blood work, which is another reason that it is important to get regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Usually this affects senior dogs ten years old or older.

Here are a few symptoms that might appear with chronic leukemia, which tend to worsen with time:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Anemia
• Swelling in the lymph nodes
• Enlargement of the spleen
• Bruising or bleeding easily

These symptoms are similar to other forms of cancer, autoimmune disease, and other conditions, so it is important to see your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis so that treatment can begin quickly.

Causes Of Leukemia In Dogs

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The causes of leukemia in dogs are not well understood. Most of the time, veterinarians believe it develops spontaneously from a mutation in the bone marrow.

Certain factors can, however, create an increased risk of the development of the condition. These include exposure to radiation, certain viral infections, and exposure to toxic chemicals.

Because the causes are not known, there are no reliable means of preventing the condition from developing in dogs.

Treatments For Leukemia In Dogs

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Many cases of leukemia in dogs can be treated or managed, but it is rare that the condition is cured. The goals of treatment are usually to restore proper white blood cell production, reduce symptoms, and relieve discomfort.

Chemotherapy is the standard treatment for canine leukemia, and while it does not cure the condition, it can put the cancer into remission or slow its growth.

Acute leukemia is more likely to be fatal than chronic leukemia, and it requires immediate and aggressive care. Usually this includes intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and blood transfusions if the dog has anemia. A dog may need a feeding tube if they can’t eat on their own.

Some of the chemotherapy drugs that might be used to treat acute leukemia are prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, L-asparginase and doxorubicin.

Chronic leukemia may not even require treatment at first. It will, however, need strict monitoring. As the condition worsens, a veterinarian may start administering oral chemotherapy drugs, which can include prednisone, chlorambucil, and cyclophosphamide.

If the cancer spreads to other areas of the body, the dog may need more aggressive treatment, such as intravenous chemotherapy.

Supplements, dietary changes, and alternative medicine will not cure leukemia, but they can help in strengthening your dog’s immune system, which can prevent secondary infections that your dog may be susceptible to due to the chemotherapy or the leukemia, itself.

You should consult your veterinarian to see how these changes may interact with prescribed treatment.

Does your dog suffer from leukemia? How do you treat it? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Leukemia In Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatments appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

Question:

How can I stop my puppy from chewing everything in sight?

Answer:

Puppies, like babies, tend to explore the environment by putting things in their mouths. The problem, of course, is that not everything a pup finds lying around is appropriate to chew, and many things can be downright dangerous.

Just as with a new baby, having a puppy requires a lifestyle adjustment. Pre-pup, you might have kicked off your shoes as you walked through the door, leaving them lying in the entryway. Maybe the kids left toys and socks strewn around the living room, or half-eaten sandwiches lingered on countertops. No more! From now on, you’ve got to be vigilant about not leaving tempting objects or food where the puppy can reach them. Performing a quick nightly scan of floors, low tables, and other places your dog can reach should become a habit. Close doors to rooms that are off limits, and be especially careful about leaving potentially toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, or raisins where your puppy can get to them.

The other piece to this is to provide lots of appropriate chew toys that will be more enticing than, say, an old running shoe. A Kong — this is a hard, rubber snowman-shaped toy with a small hole at the top and a large hole at the bottom — is a great option . The idea is to stuff it with layers of food so that your dog will have to work at “excavating” through to the bottom. For example, start with a layer of canned food, than add a few pieces of kibble, a little more canned food, and then some bits of cookie. You can find plenty of recipes and stuffing ideas on the Kong Company website.

Interactive meal dispensers like the Molecuball, which your dog must roll with his nose and paw in order to get the food to spill out, also help to release energy in productive ways. Bully sticks make fine chew items as well.

The more your pup’s energy is directed toward acceptable activities, the less likely he is to engage in undesirable behaviors (like vacuuming the floor with his mouth). Be sure to provide plenty of exercise and training as well. If you do catch your dog chewing on something he shouldn’t, give a sharp verbal “Eh-eh!” to interrupt. Then call him to you, ask him to do something simple (such as sit), and give him an appropriate chew item. Above all, hang in there. The good news is that this behavior will naturally fade as your pup grows up, but all that you do now will help to curb it sooner and more effectively.

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Doggie daycare can be a great option for pups who might otherwise spend the day alone.

This editorial courtesy of Dr. Vivian Cardoso-Carroll, PetMD.com.

My friend Jason Mayfield owns a pet boarding facility in the Houston area called the Bed Bath and Biscuit. He also trains dogs, zebras and apparently a slew of other exotic animals. Oh, and he founded the Southeast Texas Bear Refuge to provide a safe place for orphaned or abandoned bears, too.

A huge part of Jason’s boarding business actually consists of a doggie day care. My mom, who is in the middle of raising a Lab puppy, can’t say enough about how huge a help it’s been for her dog, Kemah, to attend day care three days a week. He gets to run around and play while Mom is at work and he comes home happy and tired. Mom feels good about Kemah not having to sit in a cage all day. She mentioned that the majority of dogs at day care are young dogs with working “parents” who aren’t happy with the notion of their pets being bored at home all day.

Jason was kind enough to give me this list of questions to ask a day care facility to make sure it’s a safe, reputable spot for your pooch. Having said that, I feel compelled to warn you that not unlike sending your human kids to day care, stuff happens.

Even at the best places, your precious pup could get nipped or pick up a “bug” (generally upper respiratory or GI, but usually nothing too terrible since reputable day cares won’t let you in the door unless the pet is current on shots).

Anyhow, it’s the nature of the beast. Even my human kids have both been bitten at day care!

With no further ado:

TOP 13 QUESTIONS TO ASK A DAY CARE FACILITY
(in no particular order)

1. How are dogs grouped in day care (age, size, or activity level)?

2. What type of training does the day care staff have (dog behavior, CPR, first aid)?

3. What is the staff to dog ratio?

4. What methods are used to manage dog behavior within the group?

5. What type of play are dogs allowed to engage in?

6, Will I receive a daily report card?

7. What happens if my dog misbehaves?

8. What is the procedure if there’s a medical emergency? Will my vet be contacted? Will I be contacted?

9. What will my dog be doing throughout the course of the day?

10. Will my dog have indoor/outdoor access?

11. How much is day care? Do you offer any packages?

12. How do you determine eligibility (e.g., temperament test)?

13. What are your vaccination/health requirements?

Jason also recommended that you “always tour the facility, meet the staff and the pay close attention to cleanliness.”

“Take the time to observe the day care group and how the staff interacts,” he added. “Don’t leave your dog if you aren’t comfortable with what you see, and [take] the opportunity to watch your dog in the playgroup on the first visit and randomly on subsequent visits.”

So if your puppy is driving you nuts after work because he’s been bored stiff all day, or you just want him to have a little fun while you are at work, maybe doggie day care is something to think about.

This article first appeared here on petmd.com.

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February is National Pet Dental Health Month! It’s an important month because many pet parents never look inside their dogs’ mouths. That’s a shame because up to 80 percent of adult dogs have significant oral pathology.

A dog’s mouth is the ideal incubator for all kinds of bacteria to thrive, partly because the mouth is warm and moist and has nutrients present for organisms to grow on. Many of these bacteria are normal and healthy.

However, once plaque and tartar form on the teeth, things can get out of balance quickly. If pathogenic organisms proliferate, it’s big trouble for your canine pal. Here are a few things to keep in mind and share with fellow dog lovers during National Pet Dental Health Month!

Poor Dental Health Means Poor Overall Health

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Foul breath can be one indicator of a problem, but the effects of poor dental health go far beyond “doggy breath” and present a major risk to your dog’s overall health and longevity.

Oral health issues can lead to heart, liver, and kidney disease. That’s because the toxins from periodontal disease are absorbed into animals’ blood streams. As the kidneys, liver, and brain work to filter the blood, small infections occur causing permanent and sometimes fatal organ damage.

Many pet parents seem surprised when a routine veterinarian exam points out to them that their dogs’ teeth are loose or sore, the gums are infected, or the tooth sockets are rotting. These conditions can be extremely painful for the animal. That’s why it’s so important to keep up with dental and regular veterinary checkups.

Do not neglect at-home care either. One veterinarian who specializes in canine dental care explains it simply, saying “When a client asks me how long their puppy will live, I usually respond 15 to 17 years if you brush their teeth daily–eleven to 13 years if you don’t.”

That’s a powerful statement bluntly pointing out how important proper dental care for your dog really is.

Your Dog Needs Professional And At-Home Teeth Cleanings

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Having your veterinarian treat existing periodontal disease and giving your dog proper home hygiene care will make all the difference. Most dogs respond well due to decreased pain and infection. Anything you can do to prevent oral issues is well worth the time and effort.

How do you get started? Begin a dental care routine as early as possible in your dog’s life so they get used to it. Most vets are happy to provide brushing lessons, and they often carry brushes and toothpastes made specifically for dogs.

Choose The Right Toothbrush And Toothpaste

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Be sure you select a brush size that’s appropriate for your pet’s mouth and make sure it has soft bristles. Some dogs can’t tolerate a brush. If that’s the case, there are alternative cleaning tools you can use.

Consider a finger-tip brush or gauze wrapped around a finger instead.

Do not use human toothpaste! It’s not tasty to dogs, but more importantly it’s sudsy and meant to be rinsed out and not swallowed.

Pet toothpastes formulated for dogs are enzymatic, meaning that they offer greater cleansing action on both plaque and food debris, and can be swallowed.

Most dogs prefer meat-flavored toothpastes such as beef or chicken. Start with a small sample to find a flavor your dog likes.

Start Your At-Home Care Routine

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When you begin home dental care, be careful and go slowly to avoid being bitten if your dog is resistant and gentle to avoid doing harm to your dog’s mouth.

Start with a small amount of the toothpaste to allow the pet to get used to it, letting them smell and taste it while encouraging them with praise.

Add the brush or cleaning tool once you feel comfortable and your dog knows what to expect. Don’t worry too much about brushing the inside of the teeth by the tongue, as that area is cleansed with saliva.

Brush gently with strokes starting at the gum.

Focus On Diet And Safe Chews

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Bones and chew toys can also help keep teeth clean.

Kong dental toys are durable and not consumable. Just be sure to choose a size appropriate for your dog.

There are also a variety of biscuits and treats for tartar control, like Greenies, but be mindful of the calories and your dog’s overall weight when you use them.

Some dog foods are formulated to promote good oral health. Homemade dog food can also be beneficial if prepared properly. Check with your veterinarian to formulate an appropriate diet for your dog’s oral health.

One of the best ways to ensure optimum oral health is to feed your dog with a well-balanced, meat-based dog food. Meat actually assists in keeping the mouth environment healthy. Coupled with chew treats that require some “exercising” of the teeth and regular brushings, you will be improving your dog’s oral health and overall well-being.

How do you keep your dog’s mouth in good health? Do you keep up with professional and at-home teeth cleanings? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Articles:

February Is National Pet Dental Month

Top 3 Dog Dental Care Tips

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Basal cell carcinomas and tumors are the most common forms of skin cancer found in dogs. Most basal cell tumors in dogs are benign, though they can become malignant. Malignant tumors are referred to as “carcinomas.”

When caught early, most basal cell carcinomas can be treated without further complications, usually with surgery. It’s rare for the cancer to metastasize, or spread to other parts of the body.

Basal cell tumors appear on the outer layer of skin as hairless masses, usually around the head, neck, or shoulders. If you notice a raised mound on your dog’s skin, it’s important to get it checked out by a veterinarian. They’ll be able to tell you if it is benign or malignant and form a course of treatment.

Early detection and treatment are always more effective.

Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of basal cell carcinomas in dogs.

Symptoms Of Basal Cell Carcinoma In Dogs

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Basal cell tumors or carcinomas often appear as circular, raised, hairless masses that can vary from 0.2 to 10 centimeters in diameter. Usually these are found around the head, neck, or shoulders.

Sometimes they can appear discolored when compared to healthy skin. When they go without treatment, basal cell carcinomas can ulcerate and cause other skin problems.

Benign basal cell tumors tend to be more raised and stalk-like, while basal cell carcinomas tend to be flatter. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog’s tumor is benign or malignant and form a treatment plan.

You should always get any mass you find on your dog checked out by a vet to be safe.

Causes Of Basal Cell Carcinoma In Dogs

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The causes of basal cell tumors or carcinomas in dogs are unknown.

Although basal cell tumors in humans have been linked to sun exposure, the same link hasn’t been found in dogs. Therefore, there’s no known method of preventing basal cell carcinomas in dogs.

Though the causes are unknown, there are several breeds that are more prone to developing basal cell tumors and carcinomas. Basal cell tumors are more common in Wirehaired Pointing Griffons and Scottish Terriers, while basal cell carcinomas are seen more in Cocker Spaniels and Poodles.

Middle-aged and older dogs are also more likely to develop these conditions.

Treatments For Basal Cell Carcinoma In Dogs

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Basal Cell Carcinomas in dogs are sometimes treated with cryosurgery where they are frozen off with liquid nitrogen, though this is only the case for very small tumors that are less than a centimeter wide.

More often, a vet will remove the tumor with surgery. If the vet removes all of the affected skin, the dog can usually recover without complications, and the tumor generally will not return so long as a sufficient amount of skin is removed.

Basal cell carcinomas almost never go away on their own without treatment, so you must treat them properly as early as possible.

Has your dog ever suffered from a basal cell tumor or carcinoma? How did you treat it? Let us know in the comments below!

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Crate train: One popular method of keeping dogs from having accidents in the house and chewing up your property out of boredom is to crate train them. In this style of training, dogs are kept in a crate when they are unsupervised, and they learn not to make a mess where they sleep. As long as your dog is let out regularly throughout the day, this can be a good method and even gives the dog a spot where they can feel secure.

Enroll in doggie daycare: If your dog is alone for most of the day because you work long hours and can’t go home during lunch, you might consider pet daycare. It would allow your dog to get exercise and attention that you’re not able to give him; best of all, it will get the pup out of the apartment during its most destructive, unsupervised hours. It could be best for both of you: Consider if your dog enjoys being around other pooches, determine its activity level (if classes are separated that way), and do research to make sure you trust the daycare providers.

Use repellant spray: Dogs often chew when they are bored, so make sure there’s nothing left lying around (like your favorite shoes) for the pooch to chew on while you’re away. Of course, that doesn’t always stop dogs from chewing on furniture or other immobile things, so using a chewing-deterrent spray can help discourage dogs from doing permanent damage to expensive items or parts of the apartment. Bitter apple, rosemary, or other sprays can teach dogs that chewing isn’t a tasty option.

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Tartar and gingivitis are two of the most common problems seen in dogs by veterinarians. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, loss of teeth, and–if untreated–more serious conditions such as bacterial infections of the heart, liver, or kidneys.

In fact, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral and dental disease by the age of three. Gingivitis and tartar can advance to periodontal disease or form abscesses. These infections can spread to your dog’s heart valves, liver, and kidneys. It’s serious business.

February is Pet Dental Health Month–an important month of awareness for our pets and their well-being. Spread the word and encourage friends and family with pets to practice proper at-home care and have their dogs’ teeth checked out by a professional.

1. Daily Brushing

Brushing your pet’s teeth helps to remove plaque and slow the development of tartar. When first beginning to brush, be gradual and make it a pleasant experience. Start with a finger brush and gently touch your dog’s teeth.

When they get a little more comfortable with you touching their mouth, move your finger in soft, circular motions over the front of their teeth and gums. You can eventually add pet toothpaste when they relax–do NOT use human toothpaste.

As your dog gets used to this, you can start to use a doggy toothbrush as your veterinarian recommends. Some dog breeds, especially smaller or toy breeds, need more brushing than others. Making it a daily activity will help your dog stay calm through the process, and it will keep them in good oral health.

Take a look at the video above for some guidance on brushing your dog’s teeth. Be sure to reward your pet afterward with play or a nice walk!

2. Proper Diet And Chews

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What your pet eats affects their smile. Talk to your veterinarian about formulating a diet that will keep your dog’s teeth in good shape.

You definitely do NOT want to share your sugary human foods with your dog. They’re not good for you, but they can be especially bad for canines. Table scraps might not just affect your dog’s oral health, but their overall health will suffer, as well.

Chewing is great for dogs’ dental health, but you need to be careful with what you allow your dog to chew on. Certain bones can be dangerous for your pet, and not just for their teeth.

Rawhide bones, for instance, can scrape and tear internal organs and can easily become a choking hazard. They are often doused with chemicals that can make your dog sick, too. They should not be used for teeth-cleaning purposes.

Cooked bones can also splinter and cause internal damage. Stick to bones that your vet recommends, and replace them when they get small enough for your dog to swallow. Keep bones in the fridge when your dog isn’t chewing them to prevent bacteria buildup. Always supervise chewing, too.

Some dog owners also use treats that are formulated to improve dental health. Greenies is a popular brand for doggy dental treats, but ask your vet for some recommendations that may suit your pup best.

Rope toys or other toys that your dog uses to play tug-of-war can also help keep their teeth in good shape while giving them a good workout. Make sure any toys you buy are sturdy enough for your pooch, and put them away when you’re finished playing.

3. Doggy Dentist Visits

Talk to your vet about annual or semiannual teeth cleanings. A teeth cleaning performed by your vet is the only way to remove tartar build up.

Just like you would schedule a cleaning for your own teeth, be sure to put your pet’s cleaning in your calendar, as well. You can also find low-cost dental cleaning services on the internet.

You may want to consider non-anesthesia dental cleanings if your dog is sensitive to anesthesia or if you want to avoid the side effects. Some vets suggest that this type of cleaning will not be as effective at providing the deep cleanse that your dog’s mouth needs. You’ll have to discuss this with your own vet and find out what’s right for you and your dog.

Whatever type of cleaning you decide on, keep up with professional cleanings. Remember, your dog could be in pain and you may not even know it. A professional will be able to spot whatever is going wrong that you might miss.

One thing is for sure, your pup’s mouth will be in better health after a good, professional cleaning.

How do you keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy? What other tips do you have during National Pet Dental Health Month? Let us know in the comments below!

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Americans love to spend money on their pets. A lot of this money goes to great things like toys, beds, and vaccinations. A lot of it also goes to over-the-counter treatments for ailments such as belly aches, the runs, and fleas.

With Holistic Pet Day coming up on August 30th, you may be looking out for some alternative treatments that can spare your pup from side effects and, just maybe, spare your wallet from losing weight.

While we here at DogTime love the DIY and green spirit that has taken a hold of the internet, we always advise talking to your vet about issues your pup may be having. Before you make any changes to your dog’s treatment, discuss the suggestions below with your veterinarian. Safety first!

Oh, and click here if you missed our first five home remedies for dogs! Here are five more natural home remedies for your pup.

To reiterate, always check with your vet before self-diagnosing and treating your dog.

Have you tried any of these treatments for your pup? Do you have any other home remedies you use for your dog? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Holistic Pet Day: 5 More Natural Home Remedies For Canine Conditions appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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Lymphoma is a form of cancer in dogs that affects the lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that are important for immune system function.

It’s one of the most common malignant tumors in canines. Mostly it’s found in the lymph nodes, the spleen, or the bone marrow, which is where lymphocytes are most concentrated. Although, it can appear in any organ of the body.

This cancer can be deadly for dogs if left untreated, so contact your vet if you suspect your dog needs treatment. Here’s what you should know about the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments for lymphoma.

Types Of Lymphoma In Dogs

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“Lymphoma” is a term that covers more than 30 types of cancer in dogs that each differ in mortality rates, symptoms, and aggressiveness.

There are four types of lymphoma, however, that are most common:

• Multicentric lymphoma is the most common type and makes up 80 to 85 percent of cases in dogs. It mostly affects the lymph nodes, where you might expect to see swelling.
• Alimentary lymphoma is the second most common type. It affects the intestines, which is where you can expect to see the strongest symptoms.
• Mediastinal lymphoma is more rare and affects the thymus and the mediastinal lymph nodes, which are in the chest. You might see that area become enlarged.
• Extranodal lymphoma affects a specific organ. It can be the skin, kidneys, lungs, central nervous system, or other organs. Most often it affects the skin, which is called a cutaneous lymphoma.

The condition is also designated by stage based on how it metastasizes and how invasive it is.

The stages are as follows:

• Stage I happens when it only affects one lymph node.
• State II is regional lymphadenopathy, which means it only affects one side of the diaphragm.
• Stage III is generalized lymphadenopathy, which happens when the lymph nodes are enlarged.
• Stage IV is when you see enlarged liver or spleen.
• Stage V is when lymphoma affects bone marrow, the central nervous system, or other sites beyond the lymph nodes.

Causes Of Lymphoma In Dogs

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The exact causes of lymphoma in dogs are unknown, but certain factors put dogs more at risk.

Dogs with compromised immune systems are more prone to the condition. Dogs exposed to herbicides and those who live in industrial areas are also at greater risk. Additionally, dogs who suffer exposure to toxic chemicals like paint and solvents show a greater predisposition.

Breed can also affect the likelihood of developing lymphoma. Airedale terriers, Basset Hounds, Boxers, Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Scottish terriers, and Saint Bernards are at increased risk.

Dog breeds at lower risk include Dachshunds and Pomeranians.

Symptoms Of Lymphoma In Dogs

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Symptoms of lymphoma in dogs vary and mostly relate to where the tumor forms.

Tumors in the lymph nodes, for example, may appear as swelling with no other symptoms. Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract may cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite.

Lymphoma in the chest may result in shortness of breath or weak heart beat. Forms that appear on the skin can result in bumps that may be itchy, red, or ulcerated.

Here are a few symptoms seen in the most common types of lymphoma:

• Multicentric usually appears as swollen lymph nodes. They can grow to three to ten times their normal size, though they aren’t painful. Lymph nodes will feel firm to the touch and move freely beneath the skin. The dog may also feel tired and weak, lose their appetite, and suffer dehydration or a fever.
• Alimentary may cause vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, anorexia, and weight loss.
• Mediastinal results in difficulty breathing, changes in urination, increased thirst, and swelling in the face or front legs.
• Extranodal symptoms vary based on the affected organ. Cutaneous lymphoma that affects the skin results in raised nodules or lesions that can appear on the mouth, lips, and gums. When it appears in the lungs, it causes breathing issues. In the kidneys it causes renal failure, and in the eyes it causes blindness. In the central nervous system, it can cause seizures, and in the bones, it can lead to pain and fractures.

Treatments For Lymphoma In Dogs

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The main treatment for lymphoma in dogs consists of chemotherapy. Veterinarians use a wide variety of drugs for this purpose and may give them to dogs orally or via injection.

Common drugs used in treatment are cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisone. Vets may also use radiotherapy for treatment. In some cases, vets may attempt bone marrow transplants or other surgery.

The life expectancy for a dog at Stages III through V is about four to six weeks, and drugs aren’t likely to prolong their lifespan. Dogs can, however, take medication to reduce swelling and improve quality of life at the end.

Chemo can typically extend dogs’ lives for about a year. Although, it’s important to note that there is no cure for the disease, and relapse is very likely.

The condition has a high mortality rate. Therefore, the goal of treatment is most often to improve quality of life.

Do you keep up with vet visits to check your dog for conditions like lymphoma? How do you keep your dog healthy? Let us know in the comments below!

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