Dog Bite Injuries: Frequently Asked Questions
By: Christopher Davis
Question.
How many people die every year as a result of dog bites?
Answer.
Ten to 20 people die every year as a result of dog bites in the U.S. By far, the majority of the victims are children. In a three-year period between 1999 and 2001, 33 people died after being bitten by a dog. A vast majority of these victims (24 of 33) were under 12 years of age.
Question.
Why do some dogs bite?
Answer.
There are many reasons why a dog bites. Dogs bite out of fear or to protect their territory or to establish their dominance over the person bitten. Some owners mistakenly teach their dogs that biting is an acceptable form of play behavior. And every year a number of newborn infants die when they are bitten by dogs who see them as "prey." Because dog bites occur for a variety of reasons, many components of responsible dog ownership—including proper socialization, supervision, humane training, sterilization, and safe confinement—are necessary to prevent biting.
Question.
Which dogs most commonly bite? Are some breeds more likely to bite than others?
Answer.
The breeds most commonly involved in both bite injuries and fatalities changes from year to year and from one area of the country to another, depending on the popularity of the breed. Although genetics do play some part in determining whether a dog will bite, other factors such as whether the animal is spayed or neutered, properly socialized, supervised, humanely trained, and safely confined play significantly greater roles. Responsible dog ownership of all breeds is the key to dog bite prevention.
Question.
How can local laws prevent dog bites?
Answer.
The most effective dangerous dog laws are those that place the legal responsibility for a dog's actions on the owner rather than on the dog. The best laws hold the owner accountable for the bite victim's pain and suffering, and mandate certain corrective actions such as spay/neuter and proper confinement of the dog. For more information on legislation that will effectively reduce dog bites in your community, contact The HSUS. For guidance on developing a dog bite prevention plan in your community, read the American Veterinary Medical Association's A Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention.
Question.
What should I do if I am bitten by a dog?
Answer.
If you are bitten or attacked by a dog, try not to panic.
► Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water.
► Contact your physician for additional care and advice.
► Report the bite to your local animal care and control agency. Tell the animal control official everything you know about the dog, including his owner's name and the address where he lives. If the dog is a stray, tell the animal control official what the dog looks like, where you saw him, whether you've seen him before, and in which direction he went.
Question.
Can children be taught to avoid being bitten by a dog?
Answer.
Yes, just as we teach our children to practice safety in other situations, we can teach them to be safe around dogs. The most important lessons for children to learn are not to chase or tease dogs they know and to avoid dogs they don't know.
Question.
Is there any way I can "bite-proof" my dog?
Answer.
There is no way to guarantee that your dog will never bite someone. But you can significantly reduce the risk. Here's how:
► Spay or neuter your dog. This important procedure will reduce your dog's desire to roam and fight with other dogs, making safe confinement an easier task. Spayed or neutered dogs are three times less likely to bite.
► Socialize your dog. Introduce your dog to many different types of people and situations so that he or she is not nervous or frightened under normal social circumstances.
► Train your dog. Accompanying your dog to a training class is an excellent way to socialize him and to learn proper training techniques. Training your dog is a family matter. Every member of your household should learn the training techniques and participate in your dog's education.
► Never send your dog away to be trained; only you can teach your dog how to behave in your home.
► Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Don't play aggressive games with your dog such as wrestling, tug-of-war, or "siccing" your dog on another person. Set appropriate limits for your dog's behavior. Don't wait for an accident. The first time he exhibits dangerous behavior toward any person, particularly toward children, seek professional help from your veterinarian, an animal behaviorist, or a qualified dog trainer. Your community animal care and control agency or humane society may also offer helpful services. Dangerous behavior toward other animals may eventually lead to dangerous behavior toward people, and is also a reason to seek professional help.
► Be a responsible dog owner. License your dog as required by law, and provide regular veterinary care, including rabies vaccinations. For everyone's safety, don't allow your dog to roam. Make your dog a member of your family: Dogs who spend a great deal of time alone in the backyard or tied on a chain often become dangerous. Dogs who are well-socialized and supervised rarely bite.
► Err on the safe side. If you don't know how your dog will react to a new situation, be cautious. If your dog may panic in crowds, leave him at home. If your dog overreacts to visitors or delivery or service personnel, keep him in another room. Work with professionals to help your dog become accustomed to these and other situations. Until you are confident of his behavior, however, avoid stressful settings.
Question.
What should I do if my dog bites someone?
Answer.
If your dog bites someone, act responsibly by taking these steps:
► Confine your dog immediately and check on the victim's condition. If necessary, seek medical help.
► Provide the victim with important information, such as the date of your dog's last rabies vaccination.
► Cooperate with the animal control official responsible for acquiring information about your dog. If your dog must be quarantined for any length of time, ask whether he may be confined within your home or at your veterinarian's hospital. Strictly follow quarantine requirements for your dog.
► Seek professional help to prevent your dog from biting again. Consult with your veterinarian, who may refer you to an animal behaviorist or a dog trainer. Your community animal care and control agency or humane society may also offer helpful services.
► If your dog's dangerous behavior cannot be controlled, do not give him to someone else without carefully evaluating that person's ability to protect him and prevent him from biting. a Because you know your dog is dangerous, you may be held liable for any damage he does even when he is given to someone else.
► Don't give your dog to someone who wants a dangerous dog. "Mean" dogs are often forced to live miserable, isolated lives, and become even more likely to attack someone in the future. If you must give up your dog due to dangerous behavior, consult with your veterinarian and with your local animal care and control agency or humane society about your options.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
Christopher M. Davis is the managing partner of Davis Law Group. He brings over 15 years of practical yet innovative experience to personal injury cases. He practices law in Seattle, WA. You can learn more about Mr. Davis at www.InjuryTrialLawyer.com or www.seattleaccidentnews.com. Copyright 2007 Christopher M. Davis.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Your Dog Is Older Now, So Treat Her With More Consideration And Respect
Your Dog Is Older Now, So Treat Her With More Consideration And Respect
By: Darren Lintern
You offer your dog shelter and food in order to keep her healthy and content. There's also three other points that she requires in order to stay happy, fit, and improve the quality of life.
Firstly, she requires day-to-day exercising to keep her body in shape. Secondly, her mind will need to be stimulated to keep her occupied and alert. And thirdly, she requires to be socialized often in order for her to stay in high spirits and confident.
Keep Your Adult Dog Amused And Stop Punishing Her For Sudden Faults.
Dogs will feel sadness if their family are apt to ignore or don't spend sufficient time with them. And once dogs become sad, they play up by showing negative behaviours. This may include barking incessantly; digging, chewing, and they might even run off. These adult dogs aren't acting in a negative manner on purpose. They're simply reverting back to their natural canine behaviours in order to entertain themselves. As they can't communicate with words, they will take action to communicate.
Do Not Simply Love Your Pet When She's Being Good.
Learn to love your dog totally and if she misbehaves, attempt to seek out the reason for the behavioural concern instead of punishing the pooch. Remember that she is now an adult and is in all likelihood well behaved the majority, if not all the time. That signifies that when she lashes out and does something amiss, it's often associated to an underlying reason which you could treat successfully. Something might be missing or out of balance with your family pet. Locate the reason and then offer a solution.
Always Keep Your Adult Doggy Socialized.
Often as our dogs become older and get more mature, we are inclined not take them out for walks as much as when they were pups. This is quite understandable as adult dogs tend to enjoy simply lounging around the home in their adult years. Nonetheless, to keep the pet's social skills intact and her mind stimulated, do your most to take her outside the dog shelter as much as possible to meet other dogs and individuals.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at dog ownership (like care for adult dogs), including a huge variety of detailed information on canine problem behaviors, dog psychology, and the most effective ways to train your dog, you ought to take a look at www.dogs-for-all.com
By: Darren Lintern
You offer your dog shelter and food in order to keep her healthy and content. There's also three other points that she requires in order to stay happy, fit, and improve the quality of life.
Firstly, she requires day-to-day exercising to keep her body in shape. Secondly, her mind will need to be stimulated to keep her occupied and alert. And thirdly, she requires to be socialized often in order for her to stay in high spirits and confident.
Keep Your Adult Dog Amused And Stop Punishing Her For Sudden Faults.
Dogs will feel sadness if their family are apt to ignore or don't spend sufficient time with them. And once dogs become sad, they play up by showing negative behaviours. This may include barking incessantly; digging, chewing, and they might even run off. These adult dogs aren't acting in a negative manner on purpose. They're simply reverting back to their natural canine behaviours in order to entertain themselves. As they can't communicate with words, they will take action to communicate.
Do Not Simply Love Your Pet When She's Being Good.
Learn to love your dog totally and if she misbehaves, attempt to seek out the reason for the behavioural concern instead of punishing the pooch. Remember that she is now an adult and is in all likelihood well behaved the majority, if not all the time. That signifies that when she lashes out and does something amiss, it's often associated to an underlying reason which you could treat successfully. Something might be missing or out of balance with your family pet. Locate the reason and then offer a solution.
Always Keep Your Adult Doggy Socialized.
Often as our dogs become older and get more mature, we are inclined not take them out for walks as much as when they were pups. This is quite understandable as adult dogs tend to enjoy simply lounging around the home in their adult years. Nonetheless, to keep the pet's social skills intact and her mind stimulated, do your most to take her outside the dog shelter as much as possible to meet other dogs and individuals.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at dog ownership (like care for adult dogs), including a huge variety of detailed information on canine problem behaviors, dog psychology, and the most effective ways to train your dog, you ought to take a look at www.dogs-for-all.com
Puppy Nutrition: Why Mother's Milk Is Crucial For The Survival Of Newborn Puppies
Puppy Nutrition: Why Mother's Milk Is Crucial For The Survival Of Newborn Puppies
By: May Meggan
Puppies go through great changes in their bodies from the time of birth to the time that they are weaned from their mother. These changes are so tremendous that they can be seen taking place on a day-to-day basis. During this period of growth the type of food that they receive should be changing to keep up with the needs of their growing body.
A puppy's first stage of eating takes place in their mother's womb. This food comes in a form of nutrients that are found through the mother's blood and are carried over to the puppy's blood without him having to do anything. After their birth, a puppy's fragile digestive tract are only able to absorb nutrients that are easily digested. These well absorbed nutrients are provided by their mother in the form of milk.
During the following weeks of nursing the puppies, ingredients found in the mother's milk is also changing. During the first 24 hours after the birth of the puppies (whelping), the mother's milk is largely made of a substance called colostrum. This substance is very high in proteins, vitamins, and calories, and provide the puppies with protective anti-bodies that help to build up their immune system. A healthy immune system protects their delicate and susceptible bodies from a number of infections and illnesses. This type of milk also provides them with the energy that they need for the first 24 hours of their lives.
After the initial burst of nutrients from the colostrum is transferred to the puppies, the mother then stops producing the substance from her milk. During the following days, the mother's milk changes in concentration. It becomes more mature, more concentrated, and has more nutrients to accommodate the puppies' changing bodies. As they approach the weaning stage, the milk changes again and becomes more diluted as the puppies diet changes and eats more solid foods.
The first two to five days after birth is considered to be the most crucial period that occurs in a dog's life. The other critical period happens at weaning and two to three weeks following that. This is the time when the puppy's digestive tract changes in order to adapt from their mother's milk to their new diet of solid foods.
The transition from mother's milk to solid food should take place gradually, and automatically. Forcing this process to happen in a shorter amount of time causes more stress and more difficulty for the puppies. Puppies' sensitive digestive tract should be trained to handle different types of food by slowly decreasing the amount of milk and at the same time increasing the amount of solid food.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
May Meggan loves dogs and loves to write. A combination made for the internet. Her most recent project is God Training Ideas where she helps dog-owners to find smart ways to learn to train their dog and have great fun doing so. Most of the ideas found on Dog Training Ideas come from her own 22 years of experience.
By: May Meggan
Puppies go through great changes in their bodies from the time of birth to the time that they are weaned from their mother. These changes are so tremendous that they can be seen taking place on a day-to-day basis. During this period of growth the type of food that they receive should be changing to keep up with the needs of their growing body.
A puppy's first stage of eating takes place in their mother's womb. This food comes in a form of nutrients that are found through the mother's blood and are carried over to the puppy's blood without him having to do anything. After their birth, a puppy's fragile digestive tract are only able to absorb nutrients that are easily digested. These well absorbed nutrients are provided by their mother in the form of milk.
During the following weeks of nursing the puppies, ingredients found in the mother's milk is also changing. During the first 24 hours after the birth of the puppies (whelping), the mother's milk is largely made of a substance called colostrum. This substance is very high in proteins, vitamins, and calories, and provide the puppies with protective anti-bodies that help to build up their immune system. A healthy immune system protects their delicate and susceptible bodies from a number of infections and illnesses. This type of milk also provides them with the energy that they need for the first 24 hours of their lives.
After the initial burst of nutrients from the colostrum is transferred to the puppies, the mother then stops producing the substance from her milk. During the following days, the mother's milk changes in concentration. It becomes more mature, more concentrated, and has more nutrients to accommodate the puppies' changing bodies. As they approach the weaning stage, the milk changes again and becomes more diluted as the puppies diet changes and eats more solid foods.
The first two to five days after birth is considered to be the most crucial period that occurs in a dog's life. The other critical period happens at weaning and two to three weeks following that. This is the time when the puppy's digestive tract changes in order to adapt from their mother's milk to their new diet of solid foods.
The transition from mother's milk to solid food should take place gradually, and automatically. Forcing this process to happen in a shorter amount of time causes more stress and more difficulty for the puppies. Puppies' sensitive digestive tract should be trained to handle different types of food by slowly decreasing the amount of milk and at the same time increasing the amount of solid food.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
May Meggan loves dogs and loves to write. A combination made for the internet. Her most recent project is God Training Ideas where she helps dog-owners to find smart ways to learn to train their dog and have great fun doing so. Most of the ideas found on Dog Training Ideas come from her own 22 years of experience.
Breaking my Dog of Digging
Breaking my Dog of Digging
By: Jeff Austin
There are a lot of reasons a dog will dig holes, it may be instinct, during the winter the wolf will eat all of the food that he kills, this is because he is unsure of the next time he will eat.
During the summer, he will dig a hole and bury part of the kill and return later to finish it off, this is a lot like your dog burying a bone in the backyard. A dog that is outside in the summer may dig a hole to get out of the heat, in the winter he may dig a hole to get out of the cold.
They may also dig because they don't get enough exercise; it is a great way to relieve that extra energy. (Have you ever watched how much energy a dog puts out when he digs a hole?)
This is usually because the owner doesn't realize how much energy a dog has, and doesnt give him the amount of exercise he needs. Yelling and screaming only reinforces the activity with negative attention, any attention is better than no attention, just ask your dog.
When you give negative support, you only make the problem worse; more holes are a real problem.
If you are one of the lucky few and your dog digs in front of you, just telling him no, may solve the problem.
However, most holes are not dug in our presence, especially if the dog digs from boredom, because when you are there, he isn't bored.
One way of stopping this habit is to put a wooden stake in the center of the hole he has dug, tie him to the stake with his lease and leave him there for about 20 minutes.
It will take a few more holes, but after you have several holes with stakes in the middle, he will relate the stake to the hole and being tied to the stake and the hole digging will stop.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
For more important information and tips on www.dogbreeds.onwebnet.com >dog training, best pets , www.dogbreeds.onwebnet.com/dog-breeds/dog-breeds.php >dog breeds, and more, visit onwebnet.com where you'll find articles and information on dog breeds and more.
By: Jeff Austin
There are a lot of reasons a dog will dig holes, it may be instinct, during the winter the wolf will eat all of the food that he kills, this is because he is unsure of the next time he will eat.
During the summer, he will dig a hole and bury part of the kill and return later to finish it off, this is a lot like your dog burying a bone in the backyard. A dog that is outside in the summer may dig a hole to get out of the heat, in the winter he may dig a hole to get out of the cold.
They may also dig because they don't get enough exercise; it is a great way to relieve that extra energy. (Have you ever watched how much energy a dog puts out when he digs a hole?)
This is usually because the owner doesn't realize how much energy a dog has, and doesnt give him the amount of exercise he needs. Yelling and screaming only reinforces the activity with negative attention, any attention is better than no attention, just ask your dog.
When you give negative support, you only make the problem worse; more holes are a real problem.
If you are one of the lucky few and your dog digs in front of you, just telling him no, may solve the problem.
However, most holes are not dug in our presence, especially if the dog digs from boredom, because when you are there, he isn't bored.
One way of stopping this habit is to put a wooden stake in the center of the hole he has dug, tie him to the stake with his lease and leave him there for about 20 minutes.
It will take a few more holes, but after you have several holes with stakes in the middle, he will relate the stake to the hole and being tied to the stake and the hole digging will stop.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
For more important information and tips on www.dogbreeds.onwebnet.com >dog training, best pets , www.dogbreeds.onwebnet.com/dog-breeds/dog-breeds.php >dog breeds, and more, visit onwebnet.com where you'll find articles and information on dog breeds and more.
Dog and puppy training
Dog and puppy training
By: ablessing7
Dog and puppy Training
Everyone loves their pets, especially dogs. But we are all a bit taken back when it Comes to keeping them healthy, happy, and well behaved. How many times have we seen great loving and caring dogs with their owners and can’t wait to get one of our very own. We all get so hung up in the excitement of owning a dog that we forget to prepare ourselves for all the stages that we must go through to train a happy and well adjusted animal. We dream of spoiling our new best friends and feel the love that we just can’t wait to share.
The big day comes, we have a name all picked out, we have the right breed, and yet nothing prepares us for dealing with so many decisions so fast. Once that animal steps into your life, you need to understand that they are counting on you to help them learn how to become part of the family. This means loving care, good diet, walking and of course discipline. Some people are so busy with the loving and spoiling part that they completely forget about the need to teach your pet boundaries. Potty training is a Hugh hurtle and yet one of the first things that must be done. Timing in this area is very important. When you see your dog running and playing hard, you must remember to take them outside every 20 minutes when they are young. Take them to the same spot each time and when they go potty, praise them like they are a superstar. This lets your animal know that they have pleased you and they will remember if you repeat this often. Dogs have great memories and beautiful spirits and teaching them with love and encouragement will give you both the perfect relationship you seek. .
Training your dog is not as hard as people think. You just have to remember to go with the dogs natural instincts and capitalize on those assets. Once you establish that you are the head dog in a loving firm way, the animal will always return the respect and love a Hundred fold. If you always keep your dogs best interest at heart, you will both learn to share a love like no other. The truth to the whole process is to Keep it simple, keep it repetitious, and before you know it you have a true friend for life.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
If you would like to learn more about dog and puppy training visit: www.happydays77.com/trainingpuppiesfast.html
By: ablessing7
Dog and puppy Training
Everyone loves their pets, especially dogs. But we are all a bit taken back when it Comes to keeping them healthy, happy, and well behaved. How many times have we seen great loving and caring dogs with their owners and can’t wait to get one of our very own. We all get so hung up in the excitement of owning a dog that we forget to prepare ourselves for all the stages that we must go through to train a happy and well adjusted animal. We dream of spoiling our new best friends and feel the love that we just can’t wait to share.
The big day comes, we have a name all picked out, we have the right breed, and yet nothing prepares us for dealing with so many decisions so fast. Once that animal steps into your life, you need to understand that they are counting on you to help them learn how to become part of the family. This means loving care, good diet, walking and of course discipline. Some people are so busy with the loving and spoiling part that they completely forget about the need to teach your pet boundaries. Potty training is a Hugh hurtle and yet one of the first things that must be done. Timing in this area is very important. When you see your dog running and playing hard, you must remember to take them outside every 20 minutes when they are young. Take them to the same spot each time and when they go potty, praise them like they are a superstar. This lets your animal know that they have pleased you and they will remember if you repeat this often. Dogs have great memories and beautiful spirits and teaching them with love and encouragement will give you both the perfect relationship you seek. .
Training your dog is not as hard as people think. You just have to remember to go with the dogs natural instincts and capitalize on those assets. Once you establish that you are the head dog in a loving firm way, the animal will always return the respect and love a Hundred fold. If you always keep your dogs best interest at heart, you will both learn to share a love like no other. The truth to the whole process is to Keep it simple, keep it repetitious, and before you know it you have a true friend for life.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
If you would like to learn more about dog and puppy training visit: www.happydays77.com/trainingpuppiesfast.html
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Top Five Tips for a Healthy Dog
Top Five Tips for a Healthy Dog
By: Craig Elliott
Whether you've had your loyal companion by your side for quite some time already, you've just acquired a brand-new puppy or adult dog, or you're considering a canine chum for a permanent pet, you'll want to do whatever it takes to ensure your dog lives a long, happy, and healthy life.
This concept may seem a little too simple or obvious, but the truth is that many dog owners-to-be and even longtime dog owners aren't necessarily prepared for the work involved in properly caring for a pet. If you already have a dog, and have noticed lethargy, fatigue, a negative change in behavior, or overall poor health in your pooch, it's time to take matters into your own hands and learn how to turn your dog's health around. If you have yet to buy a dog, make sure that you understand what's involved in the proper care of a dog and that you're prepared to do so before you make that very important purchase. Don't just go and buy the first puppy you see because he's "cute.
"Here are the top five tips for keeping your dog healthy and happy and living with you as long as possible (or at least as long as you want him around!):
First, give him fresh water daily. While most dog owners aren't ignorant to the point where they forget to "water" their dogs, many don't bother giving them fresh water on a daily basis. Your dog should have access to plenty of fresh water every single day. This means that you'll need to change his water bowl every evening (or morning), empty the water that wasn't consumed, and refill with clean water. You'll also need to clean out his water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Second, feed him. It's a mistake to actually think you can just buy any kind of dog food (particularly for the singular reason that it's "cheap") for your dog. There are many different types of dog food out there, based on weight, size, nutritional requirements, and special health concerns. Read the labels carefully before buying dog food for your dog. If you're not sure, talk to his veterinarian to find out which type of food is the best for your pet. Keep in mind that puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, regardless of their respective sizes. For example, don't assume that you can feed puppies of larger breeds the same food you would feed smaller adult breeds. Further, don't forget to follow the package's instructions as far as how much food and how often you should feed your dog. Consult your veterinarian for further guidance or clarification.
Next, play with him and take him for walks. Just because you're feeding and watering your dog doesn't mean that he's healthy. Dogs of all breeds and sizes require daily outdoor activity, exercise, and fresh air, or their quality of life essentially suffers, contributing to lethargy, poor health, poor appetite, weight gain, lean muscle loss, or even disease. Even "indoor" dogs aren't meant to be cooped up indoors all day long. Smart and health-conscious dog owners take their dogs for walks every day, even in the cold; this is also a great way for you to get some fresh air and exercise, too. You can also let your dog run free (without a leash) in your yard for a time, supervised or unsupervised. Do whatever you can to ensure your beloved pet receives the exercise and fresh air he needs every day.
Don't forget to give your dog his needed shots. Dogs, just like cats, other pets, and humans, require certain shots in order to stay healthy and prevent harmful diseases and viruses from entering their systems, affecting their overall health. You'll need your veterinarian to give your dog the necessary shots (it's certainly not something you can attempt yourself, even if you theoretically could get your hands on the right drugs and dosages) at the right times and in the right amounts.
Finally, ensure your dog has regular checkups with his veterinarian. If you don't have a vet for your dog, find a qualified and recommended one, and get your precious pet checked out as soon as possible. In addition to receiving his shots, your dog also requires regular checkups to make sure he is healthy and in good shape. A professional veterinarian will also check the health of your dog's teeth, eyes, coat, and paws, and be able to detect any sicknesses present and give you the correct medication for your dog.
If you love your pet dog, you should be willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his life with you is a long, happy, and healthy one; this involves following these top five tips. There are, of course, other things you can do to improve your dog's health and keep him content, but following this list of essentials is a great start to becoming a great dog owner.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
About Author:Craig Elliott is a writer for VetRx Direct. VetRx Direct is a leading supplier of Pet Medicine
By: Craig Elliott
Whether you've had your loyal companion by your side for quite some time already, you've just acquired a brand-new puppy or adult dog, or you're considering a canine chum for a permanent pet, you'll want to do whatever it takes to ensure your dog lives a long, happy, and healthy life.
This concept may seem a little too simple or obvious, but the truth is that many dog owners-to-be and even longtime dog owners aren't necessarily prepared for the work involved in properly caring for a pet. If you already have a dog, and have noticed lethargy, fatigue, a negative change in behavior, or overall poor health in your pooch, it's time to take matters into your own hands and learn how to turn your dog's health around. If you have yet to buy a dog, make sure that you understand what's involved in the proper care of a dog and that you're prepared to do so before you make that very important purchase. Don't just go and buy the first puppy you see because he's "cute.
"Here are the top five tips for keeping your dog healthy and happy and living with you as long as possible (or at least as long as you want him around!):
First, give him fresh water daily. While most dog owners aren't ignorant to the point where they forget to "water" their dogs, many don't bother giving them fresh water on a daily basis. Your dog should have access to plenty of fresh water every single day. This means that you'll need to change his water bowl every evening (or morning), empty the water that wasn't consumed, and refill with clean water. You'll also need to clean out his water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Second, feed him. It's a mistake to actually think you can just buy any kind of dog food (particularly for the singular reason that it's "cheap") for your dog. There are many different types of dog food out there, based on weight, size, nutritional requirements, and special health concerns. Read the labels carefully before buying dog food for your dog. If you're not sure, talk to his veterinarian to find out which type of food is the best for your pet. Keep in mind that puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, regardless of their respective sizes. For example, don't assume that you can feed puppies of larger breeds the same food you would feed smaller adult breeds. Further, don't forget to follow the package's instructions as far as how much food and how often you should feed your dog. Consult your veterinarian for further guidance or clarification.
Next, play with him and take him for walks. Just because you're feeding and watering your dog doesn't mean that he's healthy. Dogs of all breeds and sizes require daily outdoor activity, exercise, and fresh air, or their quality of life essentially suffers, contributing to lethargy, poor health, poor appetite, weight gain, lean muscle loss, or even disease. Even "indoor" dogs aren't meant to be cooped up indoors all day long. Smart and health-conscious dog owners take their dogs for walks every day, even in the cold; this is also a great way for you to get some fresh air and exercise, too. You can also let your dog run free (without a leash) in your yard for a time, supervised or unsupervised. Do whatever you can to ensure your beloved pet receives the exercise and fresh air he needs every day.
Don't forget to give your dog his needed shots. Dogs, just like cats, other pets, and humans, require certain shots in order to stay healthy and prevent harmful diseases and viruses from entering their systems, affecting their overall health. You'll need your veterinarian to give your dog the necessary shots (it's certainly not something you can attempt yourself, even if you theoretically could get your hands on the right drugs and dosages) at the right times and in the right amounts.
Finally, ensure your dog has regular checkups with his veterinarian. If you don't have a vet for your dog, find a qualified and recommended one, and get your precious pet checked out as soon as possible. In addition to receiving his shots, your dog also requires regular checkups to make sure he is healthy and in good shape. A professional veterinarian will also check the health of your dog's teeth, eyes, coat, and paws, and be able to detect any sicknesses present and give you the correct medication for your dog.
If you love your pet dog, you should be willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his life with you is a long, happy, and healthy one; this involves following these top five tips. There are, of course, other things you can do to improve your dog's health and keep him content, but following this list of essentials is a great start to becoming a great dog owner.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
About Author:Craig Elliott is a writer for VetRx Direct. VetRx Direct is a leading supplier of Pet Medicine
Pet Proof Your New Home
Pet Proof Your New Home
By: Anthony DeFrietas
Before bringing your pet into the new space of your new home, take several steps to ensure your safe haven is indeed safe enough. Pets will naturally investigate the world they find themselves in. Of course, this cannot and should not be discouraged. But consider the hazards your pets may encounter in your new home. Take the following measures to minimize any potential danger encountered in your pet's daily travels about the new house.
- Barriers should be put up to keep pets out of areas where they are not welcome.
- Children in your family should also understand the importance of locking or closing these gates and barriers.
-Keep in mind that most intentional destruction by pets stems from a lack of exercise or mental stimulation. Have a plethora of play/chew toys available for dogs and consider a scratching post for the energetic cats.
-Establish routine with consistency in your new home. You may be busy setting up, but there will be long term payoff for consistent walks with the dog.
- Chemical Substances should be kept in a safe location .This includes all chemical substances. Although some are lethal, most can cause serious upset or intestinal complications.
- Know what plants are poisonous to pets and ensure they are out of reach.
- Put away pill bottles and pill organizers. A dog can easily chew open these containers- childproof or not!
- Check fences and hedges to see if your pet might be able to escape. Never underestimate a dogs ability to dig and a cat's capacity to slide through anything.
- Dogs like to be able to look out and see what is going on. Try to keep items, especially fragile ones, away from windows.
- Tame cord clutter by hiding cords under baseboards and carpet seams whenever possible. A pet can suffer burns or electrocution from chewing on live cords. You can also use cords covers to mitigate possible danger.
-All things "stringy", including string, yarn, dental floss and rubber bands can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation. Keep these items out of reach. Do a vacuum or floor scan of your new home before welcoming your pet/s.
A rule of thumb to follow: treat pet proofing much the same as you would approach baby proofing your home. No detail is too small to be overlooked. Take all the care in the world setting up pet safety in your new home, and you will have safe, happy and healthy pets as a result.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
For more information on Barbados real estate listings or Barbados real estate agents, visit Buybarbados.com. Buybarbados.com partners with top real estate agencies to bring you the greatest selection of properties available in Barbados.
By: Anthony DeFrietas
Before bringing your pet into the new space of your new home, take several steps to ensure your safe haven is indeed safe enough. Pets will naturally investigate the world they find themselves in. Of course, this cannot and should not be discouraged. But consider the hazards your pets may encounter in your new home. Take the following measures to minimize any potential danger encountered in your pet's daily travels about the new house.
- Barriers should be put up to keep pets out of areas where they are not welcome.
- Children in your family should also understand the importance of locking or closing these gates and barriers.
-Keep in mind that most intentional destruction by pets stems from a lack of exercise or mental stimulation. Have a plethora of play/chew toys available for dogs and consider a scratching post for the energetic cats.
-Establish routine with consistency in your new home. You may be busy setting up, but there will be long term payoff for consistent walks with the dog.
- Chemical Substances should be kept in a safe location .This includes all chemical substances. Although some are lethal, most can cause serious upset or intestinal complications.
- Know what plants are poisonous to pets and ensure they are out of reach.
- Put away pill bottles and pill organizers. A dog can easily chew open these containers- childproof or not!
- Check fences and hedges to see if your pet might be able to escape. Never underestimate a dogs ability to dig and a cat's capacity to slide through anything.
- Dogs like to be able to look out and see what is going on. Try to keep items, especially fragile ones, away from windows.
- Tame cord clutter by hiding cords under baseboards and carpet seams whenever possible. A pet can suffer burns or electrocution from chewing on live cords. You can also use cords covers to mitigate possible danger.
-All things "stringy", including string, yarn, dental floss and rubber bands can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation. Keep these items out of reach. Do a vacuum or floor scan of your new home before welcoming your pet/s.
A rule of thumb to follow: treat pet proofing much the same as you would approach baby proofing your home. No detail is too small to be overlooked. Take all the care in the world setting up pet safety in your new home, and you will have safe, happy and healthy pets as a result.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
For more information on Barbados real estate listings or Barbados real estate agents, visit Buybarbados.com. Buybarbados.com partners with top real estate agencies to bring you the greatest selection of properties available in Barbados.
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