Posted by Jess Saba on Wed, Nov 04, 2009 @ 12:24 PM
Dog Paw Care
Dog paws are made of tough skin which create traction and act to absorb the shock on the joints and bone from running and jumping. Although, paws are meant be tough they are still prone to injury.
Signs of Discomfort:
Dog paws become sensitive if there are cuts, lacerations, blisters, infections or objects stuck between paw pads. If your dog is limping, excessivly licking his paws, holding his leg off the ground be sure to check his paws. If you notice any of these behaviors gently lift his leg to check for the cause of the discomfort.
It is always a good idea to place a muzzle on an injured dog before inspecting the affected part of his body. Even mild dogs may bite if he feels threaten by a touch.
Care for Paws:
Trim nails regularly to avoid pain or discomfort. Ask your veterinarian to teach you the proper way to cut your dog's nails, or bring your pup to a groomer.
Check paws for debris: After a long day of playing outside in the snow or mud be sure to remove packed snow or ice balls stuck in his paws. Make sure each paw is clean and free from mud or dirt to avoid discomfort.
Restrict licking: If the paw is bleeding try to restrict your dogs ability to lick his paws. An old sock or bandage should deter licking long enough to bring your dog to the vet.
Watch where you walk: Be sure to remove any sharp objects from your backyard to help avoid injury. When walking in public places determine if the surface is safe by asking yourself if you would walk barefoot in the same place. Hot pavement, broken glass and large gravel may damage paw pads.
Always check with your veterinarian before removing lodged debris or before treating serious paw wounds.
Posted by Jess Saba on Mon, Aug 31, 2009 @ 10:30 AM
How to Choose The Right Dog Day Care
Choosing the right dog day care will impact the comfort, happiness and safety of your dog while he is in someone else's care.
What to look for:
Outdoor/indoor play area: Look for a boarding camp that offers plenty of run-around space and room for dog socialization. Choose this option over a kennel that cages your dog for the majority of the day.
Staffing : Ratio-Look for a camp with a minimum of one staff member to every fifteen dogs. Certification-Ask if each of the staff members are certified by the American Red Cross in pet first aid and CPR.
Interview Process: Some camps require an initial meeting with camp counselors in order to assess the behavioral characteristics of your dog's personality.
-This is an important safety precaution to ensure your dog will play well with others.
-It helps your dog understand that he will be able to go home at the end of the day.
-You will be able to get a sense of who will be responsible for taking care of your pet.
-Some camps even offer the interview day as free trial day of camp.
Dog Fight Prevention Methods: Ask how employees are trained to prepare to break up dog fights.
Quality Personal Space: A closed off area where your dog can play with his own toys brought from home, curl up on a bed alone or chew his bone is an important option to make sure he feels comfortable while away from home.
Bring Your Own Food Option: Look for a camp that offers high quality food but also allows you to bring your own food at no extra cost.
Administration of Medications: If you have a pet that needs a daily medication, look for a camp with trained professionals who can help make sure your pet gets his prescriptions each day at camp.
Bedtime Care: In order to make sure you dog unwinds from the day gets the best night sleep look for a camp that offers treats before bed, turns down the lights and keeps the temperature perfect for sleeping.
Dog camp can be just as much fun as the vacation you take without your pup. Make sure to find the most professional, responsible and experienced camp close to you.
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