| | Feature Article Animals are Forever
Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot
Throughout the course of my life, I've encountered my own share of dogs. From early childhood days, I recall having several dogs that stayed temporarily with us until my dad's next military assignment. Though my parents took good care of our animals, military life was unsuitable for animal adoptions as in most cases, animals were not permitted to go back overseas with us; thus we were inevitably forced to find homes for our pets.
In 1983, my parents adopted our first 'forever' dog. She was a beautiful, graceful http://www.akc.org/breeds/german_shepherd_dog/index.cfm " target=_blank>German Shepherd mix. Because my oldest sister had small children, my mom kept 'Apollo' outside in the backyard. Living in the South, my family was virtually unaware of the risk of http://www.heartwormsociety.org/heart.htm " target=_blank>heartworms . In Europe, heartworms didn't exist, and unfortunately, the SPCA where Apollo had been adopted did not pass out information on these dreadful predators. While our Apollo was continually outside, she was even more susceptible to the deadly mosquito infestation. After a short two years with us, we learned that our beloved Apollo had heartworms and died in less than 24 hours of our perceived understanding.
At the time, I was merely 14 years old and deeply distraught and heartbroken over the loss of our priceless family dog. It was at that time that I had consciously made an oath to never have an outdoor dog and to always seek preventative medicine so that something like this would never happen with my own, future animals.
In retrospect, I never imagined I would ever surrogate eight (8) dogs in my home - but Max, Zeus, Cujo, Hailey, Sharley, Tiny, Thor & Ozzie have become a cherished part of my family pack. Having all been neutered & spayed, annual checkups, immunizations, plenty of fresh water & food, heartworm preventative, and proper grooming - my dogs would never dream of 'escaping' their lap of luxury. Aside from having all the love in the world, my dogs lazily lounge on the sofas, get to run and play on nearly an acre of fenced yard, and even watch Television - which is usually set on the http://animal.discovery.com/ " target=_blank>Animal Planet
One can never get me to stop talking about my dogs. They are comical, sincere, understanding, loving and in addition to being the most grateful living things, give so much love and health benefits in return.
Many persons do not realize the profound effects that animals have on us, but most importantly, do not understand the effects that we have on them. Though puppies and kittens are adorable, soft, cudly and cute - all animals mature and take on their mature form - sometimes as big as a 140 lb rottweiler. This is when things can 'become sticky' for folks. Suddenly, the cute black & tan pup is a massive bulk of clumsiness. He bumps into your living room endtable and breaks the cherished lamp; the velvety kitten is now a fully-grown cat and he's decided to 'redo' your tapestry with his claws; and 'Happy' the dog isn't making you 'so happy' anymore because he is too hyper and keeps escaping your paradise home. So what is one to do?
First and foremost - and I cannot stress this enough - http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/stamping_out_pet_overpopulation.html " target=_blank>Spay or Neuter your animals. The sure-fire way to not only calm animals, spaying or neutering is also a positive way to reinforce and strenghten bonds between animal and human counterpart; and additionally has incredible health benefits, as these cost-effective procedures help to lengthen lifespans as well.
Okay, so now you've spayed or neutered your pet - but she still wants to squeeze her way out of the fence to roam. That's understandable. She's been escaping the yard the whole time, and spaying isn't going to stop a learned behavior. So now what? My first suggestion would be to take your pet outside on a lead. (This should already have been one of the first training methods taught upon adopting a cat or dog) Teaching basic commands will help her to understand that she has boundaries and has to adhere to them.
If the lead technique still doesn't keep her at bay, a kennel can be purchased ranging from $40 - $400 (depending on size of kennel). A house kennel is appropriate for indoor animals who are exhibiting disallowed behavior such as chewing, biting, scratching, urinating, etc. These kennels cost usually less than $100 - again, depending on size of animal. An outdoor kennel, is excellent for training animals to stay inside your fenced yard. (Note: Never, under any circumstances, allow your animal to run freely.) Start by placing animals in your indoor or outdoor kennel if you have to go somewhere or if you will not be directly supervising them. Never use the kennel as a means of punishment. Most animals may be a bit leary of the kennel at first, but give them some time, and you'll discover that they love their kennel so much that it becomes a safe haven - and animals may even want to make it their permanent sleeping place.
Animal behavior can sometimes become frustrating as we've seemingly tried just about everything, and no matter what we do, they still sometimes do the things we don't want them to. But that's what separates animals from human beings: the fact that they are indeed animals. Our expectations can sometimes be set too high and we come to think of Rover or Mittens as a 'little person.' It's when we do this, that they will ultimately 'fail' our logic every single time. One cannot allow himself to set behavior standards so high that we no longer accept our animal counterparts for what they are. When behavior becomes an issue, and the lead and kennel have not produced adequate results, the next step is seeing an animal trainer or animal behavior consultant who may be better able to assist you.
Finally, but not leastly, animals are forever. Love your animals. When you open your home and hearts to animals, you have instantly become their lifetime mentor and surrogate parent. They look up to you for your time, patience, compassion, understanding, food, shelter, healthcare and everything else in between. Without you, they are helpless. The worst thing someone can do is abandon or willfully neglect his devoted dog or cat.
Below are some alarming statistics and vital information (1) from the Humane Society of the United States:
* One female dog and her offspring can give birth to 67,000 puppies. In seven years, one cat and her young can produce 420,000 kittens.
* Every year, between six and eight million dogs and cats enter U.S. shelters; some three to four million of these animals are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them.
* Living creatures have become throwaway items to be cuddled when cute and abandoned when inconvenient. Such disregard for animal life pervades and erodes our culture.
* Abandoned and stray companion animals who survive in the streets and alleys of cities and suburbs pose a health threat to humans and other animals. Each year communities are forced to spend millions of taxpayer dollars trying to cope with the consequences of this surplus of pets. These public costs include services such as investigating animal cruelty, humanely capturing stray animals, and sheltering lost and homeless animals.
* Free-roaming cats--owned cats allowed to go outside as well as stray and feral cats--often are hit by cars or fall victim to disease, starvation, poisons, attacks by other animals, or mistreatment by humans.
* Leaving a dog outside for long periods, especially if he or she is chained or otherwise tethered, can be physically, emotionally, and behaviorally detrimental. Dogs need companionship, care, exercise, and attention. Leaving a dog outside for an extended period without supervision not only deprives the animal of these things, but can also lead to behavior problems (including aggression).
For further information about pet adoptions and the Humane Society of the United States, go to: http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_adoption_information/what_to_consider_before_adopting_a_pet.html " target=_blank>What to Consider before Adopting a Pet
In their short but special time they share with us, it is important to remember that animals belong in forever homes. Are you up to the challenge? Some thoughts to ponder.
References: 1. http://www.hsus.org " target=_blank>The Humane Society of the United States
© 2005 Animals are Forever
By C. Bailey-Lloyd
aka. Lady Camelot
Public Relations Director &
Staff Writer
http://www.HolisticJunction.com " target=_blank>www.HolisticJunction.com
http://www.MediaPositiveRadio.com " target=_blank>www.MediaPositiveRadio.com
About the Authoraka. Lady Camelot
Public Relations Director &
Staff Writer
http://www.HolisticJunction.com " target=_blank>www.HolisticJunction.com
http://www.MediaPositiveRadio.com " target=_blank>www.MediaPositiveRadio.com ...
Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article Animals are Forever
Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot
Throughout the course of my life, I've encountered my own share of dogs. From early childhood days, I recall having several dogs that stayed temporarily with us until my dad's next military assignment. Though my parents took good care of our animals, military life was unsuitable for animal adoptions as in most cases, animals were not permitted to go back overseas with us; thus we were inevitably forced to find homes for our pets.
In 1983, my parents adopted our first 'forever' dog. She was a beautiful, graceful http://www.akc.org/breeds/german_shepherd_dog/index.cfm " target=_blank>German Shepherd mix. Because my oldest sister had small children, my mom kept 'Apollo' outside in the backyard. Living in the South, my family was virtually unaware of the risk of http://www.heartwormsociety.org/heart.htm " target=_blank>heartworms . In Europe, heartworms didn't exist, and unfortunately, the SPCA where Apollo had been adopted did not pass out information on these dreadful predators. While our Apollo was continually outside, she was even more susceptible to the deadly mosquito infestation. After a short two years with us, we learned that our beloved Apollo had heartworms and died in less than 24 hours of our perceived understanding.
At the time, I was merely 14 years old and deeply distraught and heartbroken over the loss of our priceless family dog. It was at that time that I had consciously made an oath to never have an outdoor dog and to always seek preventative medicine so that something like this would never happen with my own, future animals.
In retrospect, I never imagined I would ever surrogate eight (8) dogs in my home - but Max, Zeus, Cujo, Hailey, Sharley, Tiny, Thor & Ozzie have become a cherished part of my family pack. Having all been neutered & spayed, annual checkups, immunizations, plenty of fresh water & food, heartworm preventative, and proper grooming - my dogs would never dream of 'escaping' their lap of luxury. Aside from having all the love in the world, my dogs lazily lounge on the sofas, get to run and play on nearly an acre of fenced yard, and even watch Television - which is usually set on the http://animal.discovery.com/ " target=_blank>Animal Planet
One can never get me to stop talking about my dogs. They are comical, sincere, understanding, loving and in addition to being the most grateful living things, give so much love and health benefits in return.
Many persons do not realize the profound effects that animals have on us, but most importantly, do not understand the effects that we have on them. Though puppies and kittens are adorable, soft, cudly and cute - all animals mature and take on their mature form - sometimes as big as a 140 lb rottweiler. This is when things can 'become sticky' for folks. Suddenly, the cute black & tan pup is a massive bulk of clumsiness. He bumps into your living room endtable and breaks the cherished lamp; the velvety kitten is now a fully-grown cat and he's decided to 'redo' your tapestry with his claws; and 'Happy' the dog isn't making you 'so happy' anymore because he is too hyper and keeps escaping your paradise home. So what is one to do?
First and foremost - and I cannot stress this enough - http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/stamping_out_pet_overpopulation.html " target=_blank>Spay or Neuter your animals. The sure-fire way to not only calm animals, spaying or neutering is also a positive way to reinforce and strenghten bonds between animal and human counterpart; and additionally has incredible health benefits, as these cost-effective procedures help to lengthen lifespans as well.
Okay, so now you've spayed or neutered your pet - but she still wants to squeeze her way out of the fence to roam. That's understandable. She's been escaping the yard the whole time, and spaying isn't going to stop a learned behavior. So now what? My first suggestion would be to take your pet outside on a lead. (This should already have been one of the first training methods taught upon adopting a cat or dog) Teaching basic commands will help her to understand that she has boundaries and has to adhere to them.
If the lead technique still doesn't keep her at bay, a kennel can be purchased ranging from $40 - $400 (depending on size of kennel). A house kennel is appropriate for indoor animals who are exhibiting disallowed behavior such as chewing, biting, scratching, urinating, etc. These kennels cost usually less than $100 - again, depending on size of animal. An outdoor kennel, is excellent for training animals to stay inside your fenced yard. (Note: Never, under any circumstances, allow your animal to run freely.) Start by placing animals in your indoor or outdoor kennel if you have to go somewhere or if you will not be directly supervising them. Never use the kennel as a means of punishment. Most animals may be a bit leary of the kennel at first, but give them some time, and you'll discover that they love their kennel so much that it becomes a safe haven - and animals may even want to make it their permanent sleeping place.
Animal behavior can sometimes become frustrating as we've seemingly tried just about everything, and no matter what we do, they still sometimes do the things we don't want them to. But that's what separates animals from human beings: the fact that they are indeed animals. Our expectations can sometimes be set too high and we come to think of Rover or Mittens as a 'little person.' It's when we do this, that they will ultimately 'fail' our logic every single time. One cannot allow himself to set behavior standards so high that we no longer accept our animal counterparts for what they are. When behavior becomes an issue, and the lead and kennel have not produced adequate results, the next step is seeing an animal trainer or animal behavior consultant who may be better able to assist you.
Finally, but not leastly, animals are forever. Love your animals. When you open your home and hearts to animals, you have instantly become their lifetime mentor and surrogate parent. They look up to you for your time, patience, compassion, understanding, food, shelter, healthcare and everything else in between. Without you, they are helpless. The worst thing someone can do is abandon or willfully neglect his devoted dog or cat.
Below are some alarming statistics and vital information (1) from the Humane Society of the United States:
* One female dog and her offspring can give birth to 67,000 puppies. In seven years, one cat and her young can produce 420,000 kittens.
* Every year, between six and eight million dogs and cats enter U.S. shelters; some three to four million of these animals are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them.
* Living creatures have become throwaway items to be cuddled when cute and abandoned when inconvenient. Such disregard for animal life pervades and erodes our culture.
* Abandoned and stray companion animals who survive in the streets and alleys of cities and suburbs pose a health threat to humans and other animals. Each year communities are forced to spend millions of taxpayer dollars trying to cope with the consequences of this surplus of pets. These public costs include services such as investigating animal cruelty, humanely capturing stray animals, and sheltering lost and homeless animals.
* Free-roaming cats--owned cats allowed to go outside as well as stray and feral cats--often are hit by cars or fall victim to disease, starvation, poisons, attacks by other animals, or mistreatment by humans.
* Leaving a dog outside for long periods, especially if he or she is chained or otherwise tethered, can be physically, emotionally, and behaviorally detrimental. Dogs need companionship, care, exercise, and attention. Leaving a dog outside for an extended period without supervision not only deprives the animal of these things, but can also lead to behavior problems (including aggression).
For further information about pet adoptions and the Humane Society of the United States, go to: http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_adoption_information/what_to_consider_before_adopting_a_pet.html " target=_blank>What to Consider before Adopting a Pet
In their short but special time they share with us, it is important to remember that animals belong in forever homes. Are you up to the challenge? Some thoughts to ponder.
References: 1. http://www.hsus.org " target=_blank>The Humane Society of the United States
© 2005 Animals are Forever
By C. Bailey-Lloyd
aka. Lady Camelot
Public Relations Director &
Staff Writer
http://www.HolisticJunction.com " target=_blank>www.HolisticJunction.com
http://www.MediaPositiveRadio.com " target=_blank>www.MediaPositiveRadio.com
About the Authoraka. Lady Camelot
Public Relations Director &
Staff Writer
http://www.HolisticJunction.com " target=_blank>www.HolisticJunction.com
http://www.MediaPositiveRadio.com " target=_blank>www.MediaPositiveRadio.com ...
Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article American Pit Bull Terrier: Is It The Right Dog Breed For You?
Author: Tim Amherst -
If you're thinking about owning a Pit Bull terrier, it is important to understand the characteristics of the breed as well as your current lifestyle. Caring for a Pit Bull is a long-term commitment that needs to be taken seriously, not just a simple hobby that you participate in when time permits.
Unfortunately it is very difficult for many dogs to find a second home in the event that their owners "change their minds" and decide they don't want a dog after all. The situation is even worse for Pit Bulls due to their reputation in today's society.
Do you have the time and the energy to commit to a high energy breed such as a Pit Bull? Pit Bull terriers have very high exercise requirements and are happiest when they get plenty of play time.
If you are interested in owning a Pit Bull, you should possess a similar sense of adventure. A day at the beach, a park, or just playing frisbee in the backyard are all excellent things to do with your four-legged friend. These activities will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog and make ownership even more rewarding.
If you're more of an inside person however and don't enjoy exercising daily, you should seriously rethink your idea of Pit Bull ownership. There are many other excellent dog breeds that will probably be more suitable to your lifestyle and it isn't fair to penalize your dog simply because you are too selfish to get an alternative breed.
If you still are set on owning a Pit Bull, it is important that you begin training your dog as soon as you bring him home. Pit Bulls who aren't properly trained can become more than a handful. On the other hand, a well-trained Pit can regularly impress others with good behavior. Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com To learn all about raising an American Pit Bull Terrier and training Pit Bulls , visit www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today. ...
Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article All The Things You Should Know About Your Dog - But Don't Want To Talk About!
Author: Edwina Hanson
When you decided to get a dog, I'll bet you daydreamed about the great times you'd have with your new best friend. However, there are many things that you need to consider in order to keep your pooch happy and healthy. Things that perhaps you'd rather not even think about!
When you go to the veterinarian he may ask you to bring along a urine sample from your dog. How do you do this? Your dog surely won't be able to hit a sample bottle. The easiest way to accomplish this is to tape a polythene container to the end of a yard stick. While your dog is out doing his business, position the container underneath his urine stream. This is easier to do with male dogs than female dogs but you can usually get a sample with one or two tries. Your veterinarian will want as fresh a sample as possible so if you won't be taking the sample to the vet right away, keep it refrigerated until you bring it in. Your veterinarian will be checking the sample for a variety of things like bacteria and crystals. If bacteria is found it could mean that your dog has a urinary tract infection and will most likely require your dog to be put on a course of antibiotics. Crystals form in the urine whenever minerals bind together, there are several different kinds of crystals and these are most often treated with prescription diets.
If your veterinarian asks for a stool sample it could mean that he suspects that intestinal parasites are bothering your dog. They can get these by eating fecal matter from another affected animal, carcasses, or other unsavory things. You will want to bring in a fresh sample. The doctor will examine it under the microscope and look for telltale eggs of parasites. Commonest parasites are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Several of today's monthly heartworm medications also protect against roundworms and hookworms. If you live in the country or your dog is outside for much of the day, he may need to be treated with a tapeworm wormer on a quarterly basis. Other diseases like coccidia, can also be seen under the microscope from your dog's stool sample.
What about anal glands? The anal glands are two small glands located just on the inside of your dog's anus that secrete a foul smelling liquid. Usually the glands will be emptied when your dog defecates. Unfortunately, in some dogs, the anal glands become impacted and do not empty properly. If your dog is urinating more than usual or licking his hind quarters more often, there may be a problem with his anal glands. In this case it's important to make an appointment with your veterinarian who will check the anal glands by gloved touch. If the anal glands are full, he will be able to empty them manually. it is possiblen, however, to learn how to do this yourself at home. Some dogs require their anal glands be manually emptied regularly. Some owners have their dog's anal glands surgically removed but if you choose to do this, discuss the possible outcomes with your veterinarian as there is often a risk of fecal incontinence if the surgery goes awry.
Occasionally in dogs, dandruff is just dandruff caused by skin allergies, nutritional deficiencies, or improper grooming. Sometimes, however, dandruff can be a sign of a parasite called mange of which there are a few different types:
a) Demodectic Mange is caused by a mite which all dogs have but are rarely adversely affected by it. Sometimes however, there can be an overabundance of these mites which causes skin irritation and hair loss.
b) Sarcoptic Mange (also known as scabies) is caused by another type of mite. A female mite buries herself in the dog's skin and lays her eggs there. When the eggs hatch, the cycle begins again. This causes severe skin irritation and hair loss in dogs but is easily treatable.
c) Cheyletiella Mange is caused by a large mite that lives on the surface of the dog's skin. This infestation is also known as 'walking dandruff'. This type of mange causes minor skin irritation but is easily treatable with topical medication.
So, now you can talk about those unpleasant things! It's important that you are properly educated and can recognize signs and symptoms so that you keep your dog as healthy as he can be. Article Source : http://www.articledashboard.com Edwina Hanson is a dog care and training professional. Click on the link for a free 73 page report entitled Complete Dog Care . You'll also get a nice little ebook entitled "20 Natural and Healthy Recipes" (for your dog!). ...
Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article All About Dog Breeders
Author: Chuck Masterson
Most dog breeders are reputable people who truly care about the health and welfare of the dogs they breed. There are several things that you should look for when buying a puppy from a dog breeder. When you are purchasing a puppy from a dog breeder do not be afraid to ask to see where the dog breeder lives. A puppy is a companion that will be with you for several years. To ensure your puppy's health you want to see the type of conditions that the puppy was born in. When you visit the dog breeders home you want to make sure that the kennel is clean and smells good. Some puppy mills will disguise themselves as dog breeders. In order to find the right breeder you may want to ask veterinarians, boarding kennels, groomers and other pet owners in your local area who reputable dog breeders are. Another suggestion is to go to the local kennel club and ask there if they know of any local dog breeders. When you are purchasing a puppy from a dog breeder make sure that you see the whole litter of puppies and at least one of the parents. You want to make sure that the other dogs do not have runny eyes or noses. The dogs should look healthy and well fed. A dog breeder should be knowledgeable about the type of dog you are buying. A reputable dog breeder will also ask you questions about you, your family and your lifestyle. Some dog breeders will ask you to sign a contract that specifies that it is your responsibility to take good care of the dog. When you are buying a puppy make sure that the puppy is at least eight to twelve weeks old. There are so many kind-hearted dog breeders that care about finding each puppy a good home for life. Do not be surprised if your dog breeder makes a follow up call to see how the new dog is doing.
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article 15 Helpful Dog Allergy Prevention Tips and Dog Allergy Friendly Breeds
Author: John Hinkley
Unfortunately, there are no cures for dog allergies. However, there are several things you can do to make life with your dog more comfortable: 1. Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap and hot water immediately after handling your dog. If you are unable to wash your hands right away, avoid touching your hands with your face especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you have severe allergies and are in close contact with your dog, you may need to take frequent showers and change your clothes throughout the day. 2. Feed your dog a well-balanced diet. Your dog's diet should include some natural fat. This fat helps to make your dog's skin less dry, resulting in less shedding. Talk to your vet about his recommendations on how to safely add fat to his diet. 3. Don't allow your dog in the bedroom. This tip takes a lot of discipline, but it does make a big impact on your reaction to allergies. Keeping your bedroom door closed is ideal because it keeps airborne particles away. Sleep on mattresses and pillows with hypoallergenic polyester fillings. Also, as an extra precaution, cover your pillows, mattresses, and box springs with plastic, zippered, allergy-proof covers. 4. Brush your dog often. It is ideal to brush your dog daily. However, if you suffer from allergies, you'll need to give another family member the responsibility of brushing the dog. If possible, the dog should be brushed outdoors. If you live alone with your dog, consider taking him to a professional groomer. You could wear a dust mask and gloves for brushing him in between grooming visits. 5. Bathe your dog often. Check your dog's current shampoo. It should be ahypoallergenic or oatmeal based shampoo. If it's not, try switching brands. If your allergies can't handle the bathing, have another family member be responsible for giving baths. Or, have your dog visit a groomer. 6. Wash your dog's belongings. Get into the habit of washing your dog's bed, blankets, and toys on a weekly basis either by hand with a safe soap or in the washing machine. 7. Check your vacuum. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Air) filtration system. This type of system will help pull up and trap more of your dog's dander from the floor. Note: vacuuming is recommended over sweeping because sweeping can stir the dander into the air, rather than trapping and removing it. 8. Have carpets cleaned regularly. Even though you use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filtration system, it is important to still have your carpets steam-cleaned throughout the year. Try to have this done at least quarterly. 9. Dust often. Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces such as tables, shelves, window sills, wall hangings, lamps, and other furniture and accessories. If necessary, wear a dust mask as you clean. Reccomended cleansing solutions:Oti-Clens Cleansing Solution 10. Keep the air fresh. Use an air purifier one that contains a HEPA. This type of system will help eliminate dander from the air. The less a dog sheds the less dander it produces. The following breeds typically produce less dander: Airedale Basenji Bedlington terrier Bichon frise Chinese crested Irish water spaniel Italian greyhound Kerry blue terrier Maltese Poodle Portuguese water dog Schnauzers Shih tzu Soft-coated Wheaten terrier Tibetan terrier Wire-haired fox terrier Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless) To read the Entire Article and the remaining allergy prevention tips go to: http://largedogbreedz.com/your-large-dogs-health/large-dog-grooming-techniques/dog-allergy-prevention-tips.html
Article Page Main Dogs Articles Dogs Sites
| | Feature Article 15 Helpful Dog Allergy Prevention Tips and Dog Allergy Friendly Breeds
Author: John Hinkley
Unfortunately, there are no cures for dog allergies. However, there are several things you can do to make life with your dog more comfortable: 1. Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap and hot water immediately after handling your dog. If you are unable to wash your hands right away, avoid touching your hands with your face especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you have severe allergies and are in close contact with your dog, you may need to take frequent showers and change your clothes throughout the day. 2. Feed your dog a well-balanced diet. Your dog's diet should include some natural fat. This fat helps to make your dog's skin less dry, resulting in less shedding. Talk to your vet about his recommendations on how to safely add fat to his diet. 3. Don't allow your dog in the bedroom. This tip takes a lot of discipline, but it does make a big impact on your reaction to allergies. Keeping your bedroom door closed is ideal because it keeps airborne particles away. Sleep on mattresses and pillows with hypoallergenic polyester fillings. Also, as an extra precaution, cover your pillows, mattresses, and box springs with plastic, zippered, allergy-proof covers. 4. Brush your dog often. It is ideal to brush your dog daily. However, if you suffer from allergies, you'll need to give another family member the responsibility of brushing the dog. If possible, the dog should be brushed outdoors. If you live alone with your dog, consider taking him to a professional groomer. You could wear a dust mask and gloves for brushing him in between grooming visits. 5. Bathe your dog often. Check your dog's current shampoo. It should be ahypoallergenic or oatmeal based shampoo. If it's not, try switching brands. If your allergies can't handle the bathing, have another family member be responsible for giving baths. Or, have your dog visit a groomer. 6. Wash your dog's belongings. Get into the habit of washing your dog's bed, blankets, and toys on a weekly basis either by hand with a safe soap or in the washing machine. 7. Check your vacuum. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Air) filtration system. This type of system will help pull up and trap more of your dog's dander from the floor. Note: vacuuming is recommended over sweeping because sweeping can stir the dander into the air, rather than trapping and removing it. 8. Have carpets cleaned regularly. Even though you use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filtration system, it is important to still have your carpets steam-cleaned throughout the year. Try to have this done at least quarterly. 9. Dust often. Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces such as tables, shelves, window sills, wall hangings, lamps, and other furniture and accessories. If necessary, wear a dust mask as you clean. Reccomended cleansing solutions:Oti-Clens Cleansing Solution 10. Keep the air fresh. Use an air purifier one that contains a HEPA. This type of system will help eliminate dander from the air. The less a dog sheds the less dander it produces. The following breeds typically produce less dander: Airedale Basenji Bedlington terrier Bichon frise Chinese crested Irish water spaniel Italian greyhound Kerry blue terrier Maltese Poodle Portuguese water dog Schnauzers Shih tzu Soft-coated Wheaten terrier Tibetan terrier Wire-haired fox terrier Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless) To read the Entire Article and the remaining allergy prevention tips go to: http://largedogbreedz.com/your-large-dogs-health/large-dog-grooming-techniques/dog-allergy-prevention-tips.html | |
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