All articles tagged with #dog care
White dog poop was common in the 90s due to high calcium content in dog food, often from bone meal, which left mineral deposits in the stool. Changes in pet food formulations, reducing calcium-rich ingredients, have made white dog poop less common today. Excess calcium can be toxic, so pet owners should monitor their dogs' health and consult vets if unusual stool occurs.
A couple shared a video on TikTok showing how they are caring for their golden retriever with dementia through enrichment walks. The walks, especially late at night, help delay the progression of her condition. The couple's devotion to their dog has touched many on social media, with people sharing their own experiences and offering support. If you suspect your older dog may have dementia, consult with a veterinarian and document their behavior for evaluation.
An 8-year-old girl is struggling to cope with her mother's erratic behavior and abandonment, blaming herself for the family's troubles. Her aunt seeks book recommendations to help her niece. Suggestions include "What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety" and the Harry Potter series. The aunt also advises legal recourse and therapy for the children. In another letter, a woman seeks advice on how to handle her husband's frequent birdwatching trips, leaving her responsible for their dogs. The suggestion is to find reliable dog care and alternate responsibilities. A reader expresses frustration with Amy's response to a neighbor who opened their mail by mistake, but Amy defends her advice.
With the monsoon season comes an increased risk of tick fever in dogs. To prevent this disease, pet owners should clean and examine their dogs after walks, paying extra attention to their paws, and using disinfectants. Providing a healthy diet and proper nutrition is crucial for building a dog's immunity. Medications, sprays, collars, and tick-repellent drops can also help prevent tick infestation. Regular pest control and disinfecting your dog's accessories and living spaces are essential to avoid tick breeding grounds.
Canine influenza cases have been reported in Durham and Moore Counties, with at least one case in Chapel Hill. The virus is highly infectious and can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge in dogs. Orange County Animal Services has suspended dog-to-dog meetings at its shelter and advises against taking dogs to places where close contact with other dogs is likely. Vaccines are available for prevention, and dog owners should monitor their pets and contact their vet if symptoms arise. Canine flu has a long shedding period, and infected dogs must be quarantined for around three weeks.
Dr. Marcus, an emergency veterinarian who goes by @thefriendlyvet on TikTok, has shared five things he avoids doing with his own dog, Charlie, which include bringing him to the dog park, giving him bones or bully sticks to chew on, not leashing him in public, never free-feeding him, and always giving him long-term medications, vaccines, and other preventative medicines to keep him healthy. Dr. Marcus advises pet owners to be aware of the risks associated with these activities and to take preventative measures to keep their dogs healthy and safe.