Dogs Health Care Articles

Whether you plan to purchase a new puppy or you already have a middle-aged dog, dog health care is one of the most important aspects of owning a dog. In order to keep your dog healthy, you should have a regular veterinarian, have knowledge of some of the most common diseases and conditions facing dogs, and you should be able to recognize common dog symptoms and how to address them. Also learn more on the types of care your dog can receive and the insurance plans that can help you pay for his medical needs.

• Where to Get Help With Vet Bills

  In difficult economic times, many pet owners need help with vet bills. Fortunately, there are programs and organizations that can help pet owners care for their pets when money is tight.

• When to Get Vet Help

  When a pet seems sick or is acting unusual, it is sometimes hard to know when to get vet help.

• What’s the best way to clean urine from the floor or furniture?

  The best way to clean your furniture and floor is to use Pine Sol. Also another trick is if you can pull your carpet back and slide a sheet of newspaper under the stain, the smell goes away.

• What to Look for in a Dog Wheelchair

  If your dog has suffered a paralyzing injury or illness that affect this rear legs, a dog wheelchair may restore mobility. Wheelchairs can also help your dog recover from surgery, taking the weight off of a dog cast or brace.

• What Dog Life Insurance Covers—And What It Doesn’t

  If you're considering purchasing dog life insurance, it's important to know what it covers and what it doesn't. Sometimes referred to as "replacement insurance," the primary purpose of dog life insurance is to reimburse owners for the cost of their dog at the time of his death.

• What Does the Best Dog Insurance Cover?

  Dog insurance has become a popular product, but the question is, what does the best dog insurance cover? The best dog insurance depends on what you think your dog needs.

• What Does a Dog Ultrasound Cost?

  When your dog has health issues that require diagnostics, often the first question is what does a dog ultrasound cost? Typically, ultrasound costs range from $300 to $500 depending on who performs the ultrasound and where you live.

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  Veterinary information pertaining to dogs is compiled on this site. A resource for the dog owner seeking useful information.

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  Comprehensive health information relating to dogs and cats.

• Vet Compliant Canine Insurance: Finding Comprenhensive Coverage

  If you're looking for comprehensive coverage, first, it is important to understand all of the common types of insurance accepted by most veterinarians.

• Using Acupuncture for Canine Pain Relief

  Acupuncture has long been used to relieve pain in humans; now, acupuncture is also used for canine pain relief.

• Untangling Dog Health Symptoms Common to Many Illnesses

  The same dog health symptoms can signal many different conditions and diseases, making it difficult to untangle exactly what might be making your dog ill. When your dog becomes sick, you will notice various psychological or physical changes.

• Unique Medical Problems with Different Dog Breeds

  Many different dog breeds have health problems unique to their species. Pet owners desiring a specific breed should be aware of the potential issues their pet may develop.

• Understanding Veterinary Specialty Programs for Graduates

  Veterinary specialty careers are perfect for those who wish to develop a high degree of skill in one specific area of veterinary medicine. Veterinary specialties are in high demand, because the process of becoming a veterinary specialist can be so demanding.

• Tremoring and Trembling in Dogs

  Trembling and tremoring occur in small breed dogs with reasonable frequency. Despite this, there is not much information that I can find on the possible causes of this problem. There is at least one case report of a shih tzu who was suspected to have small dog shaker syndrome
  

• Treating a Dog Leg Sprain with Anti-Inflammatory Medicine

  A dog leg sprain is a common injury among active canines. Symptoms include lameness, pain and swelling.

• Toxic Plants Checklist: The 12 Most Poisonous Plants to Dogs

  An important step in dog ownership involves learning if you own toxic plants. Many pet owners are surprised to learn that the medicinal aloe vera plant can harm their dog.

• Total Dog Health: The Comprehensive Guide

  Complete dog health is a hodgepodge of key elements including nutrition, supplementation, and preventatives. Not only do these key elements integral to your dog's overall health.

• Total Care for Your Pet: The Dog Health Guide for New Owners

  Pet dog health is an important topic that new dog owners should become familiar with in order for their dogs to live a long healthy life.

• Tips for Preventing Canine Behavior Problems

  Dogs make wonderful pets but having an animal with canine problems can be worrying. Although some people enlist the help of a professional...

• Timeless Dog Health Advice from Veterinarians

  Dog health advice might be hard to swallow if you're not sure it comes from a reputable source. But this timeless dog health advice comes straight from veterinarians, and can help you keep your dog feeling his best all the years of his life.

• Thyroid Problems in Dogs: Conditions That May Develop Over Time

  Thyroid problems in dogs can result in multiple symptoms that may be hard for owners to recognize, especially as they often develop over a long period of time.

• Three Canine Health Care Products and Services You Don’t Need

  Canine health care can be confusing, and you may not realize that there are some canine health care products that you just don't need. Here is an overview of unnecessary canine health products.

• The Traveler’s Guide to Caring for Pets

  Caring for pets while traveling can be a task in itself if proper preparations are not made first. Air travel with pets can be especially difficult...

• The Lifetime Cost of Dog Ownership

  The cost of a dog is usually highest in the first year of its life, as puppies eat more and require more veterinary attention than adult dogs. The cost of a dog over its lifetime can vary greatly depending on the size and breed of the dog...

• The Four Most Common Dog Health Insurance Claims

  Dog health insurance provides dog owners with individualized coverage for their dog's medical costs. Everyone loves their dogs, but most people can't afford the expensive medical bills that are often necessary to make their dogs happy and healthy.

• The Five Most Common Breed Specific Dog Health Problems

  Whether adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue or purchasing from a breeder or store, dog health should be among your foremost considerations before making a decision.

• The Essential Dog Laxative Guide

  Choosing the best dog laxative can be tricky, but if you have an understanding of dog constipation, you can provide your dog with the best, and safest remedy.

• The Cost of Canine Heartworm Treatment

  Canine heartworm treatment can be expensive, not just because of the treatment itself but because of the tests and hospital stay that is often necessary.

• The Clean Dog: Canine Hygiene Step by Step

  Keeping a clean dog isn't as hard as many pet owners believe, especially if your start canine hygiene routines early in your puppy's life. Dog ears, dental hygiene and skin care can be easy to maintain and will help prevent health problems in the future.

• The Best Pet Insurance for Dogs: How To Choose A Provider

  Pet insurance for dogs comes in many forms, from limited plans to full coverage; select an insurance provider that can meet your dog's health care needs.

• The Benefits of Flax Seed Oil for Dogs

  Flax seed oil for dogs promotes a soft, glossy coat and healthy skin. If you plan to give your dog flax, look for a raw, unprocessed oil or ground seed product.

• The Benefits of Dog Exercise

  Dog exercise is highly recommended and has plenty of health benefits. Your dog will feel good, have a healthy weight and display an exemplary behavior.

• The 8 Most Common Veterinary Drug Prescriptions

  Recent veterinary drug advances have yielded many new and effective treatments for common dog illnesses and conditions. These vet drug preparations reduce pain, improve health and treat disease in millions of pets each year.

• The 8 Most Common Dogs’ Health Problems

  Eight common problems compromise dogs health. Seemingly minor issues such as fleas and ticks can impact pet health.

• The 7 Most Common Illnesses in Veterinary Puppy Care

  Puppy care is especially important for owners who have brought home a new pet. Puppies are at risk of contracting diseases due to bacteria, and viruses...

• The 5 Most Urgent Dog Health Issues

  Staying abreast of dog health issues will help you know how to prevent your dog from contracting harmful viruses and infections. The 5 most urgent dog...

• The 5 Most Common Puppy Health Problems

  Puppy health is always a concern for pet owners with puppy health care prices on the rise. When owners know what types of health problems are the most common in puppies, preventative measures can be better enforced.

• The 3 Most Common Male Dog Diseases

  A male dog may be susceptible to a specific problem or illnesses due to his biological make up. Most of these problems are concentrated around the prostate gland and hormonal issues.

• Taking Ear and Rectal Temperatures With a Dog Thermometer

  A dog thermometer is a diagnostic tool used to provide accurate readings of your dog's temperature. Some dogs don't cooperate when you take their temperature, especially during a rectal temperature reading.

• Stopping a Dog From Eating Feces

  A dog eating feces (which is called Coprophagia) may be disturbing for some owners. Not only that, but it can result in a dog vomiting, or having an upset stomach.

• Spondylosis

  Spondylosis is the excessive bone production that occurs between spinal vertebrae in dogs. It is only rarely a cause of lameness or disability and should be considered as the cause of such problems...

• Selecting a Dog Treadmill

  The right dog treadmill will depend largely on what's right for your dog's ability and age. When evaluating machines, make sure they can accommodate your dog's size and the length of his legs.

• Seizure Control

  Acepromazine seems to lower the seizure threshold in some animals and can apparently allow a seizure to occur that might not have without the lowering of the seizure threshold. Paradoxically, it can raise the seizure threshold associated with some anesthetic agents (most notably ketamine).

• Safer Storage With an Airtight Dog Food Bin

  A dog food bin is an essential addition to a pet owner's pantry. It preserves essential nutrients and lessens the risk of pantry pests contaminating the food. If you own pets, keep their food stored in an airtight storage bin.

• Recognizing a Dog Emergency Requiring Hospitalization

  Often a dog emergency is not easy to recognize. Most pet owners worry that they're over-reacting; however, there are some emergencies that require immediate care.

• Pruritis

  ruritis is the name for itchiness that causes pets to scratch. Several chemical reactions occur in the skin that stimulate the nerves, causing the brain to feel the itch

• Preventing Canine Health Problems: 5 Basic Tips

  Canine health problems may occur no matter what you do to prevent them. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't try; a number of canine health problems can be avoided by proper care alone.

• Preparing Early for Common Senior Dog Health Problems

  Preparing early for common senior dog health problems will help alleviate any anxiety as symptoms of old age appear in your dog. These symptoms can range from common yet benign health issues to serious issues, such as tumors.

• Pneumonia in Dogs - Causes and Treatments

  What are the common causes pneumonia in dogs? Pseudomonas species bacteria are one of the more common bacterial causes.

• Pituitary Gland

  Dr. Richards, I have a 5 year old Boston terrier (Simmi) who was diagnosed today with probable Cushing’s disease based on a low dose dex supp test. 

• Physical Therapy for an Injured Dog

  An injured dog may benefit from physical therapy. Physical therapy can help to relieve pain and speed up the healing process.

• Photo Gallery Index

  An index of the VetInfo.com Photo Gallery pages; Pet Photo Archives

• Pet Health Insurance: A Dog Owner’s Guide

  Due to the rising costs of pet health care, dog insurance premiums have skyrocketed. This has caused consumers to either go without dog insurance or opt for the bare minimum. As a result, pet owners ended up spending $7.2 million (cash) on vet care in year 2000 and by 2005, this figure increased to $11 billion. Today, only 3% of American pet owners currently carry pet health insurance.

• Pet Health Care By Dog Breed: How Insurance Costs Vary

  The cost of pet health care is increasing and is expected to continue to rise, so expect to pay a little more for your dog. This has led many to consider health insurance for their pet, however these costs can vary considerably by breed.

• Pet Exercise Tips for Weight Management

  Pet exercise is a healthy way to manage your dog or cat's weight. Obese pets are at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis.

• Pet Dog Health Tips for New Owners

  By following a few pet dog health tips, you prevent common diseases and promote a long life. Yearly, vet check ups help, but they are not the only way to keep your dog healthy. It's up to you to ensure you are doing everything possible to keep your dog happy and healthy.

• Pancreatitis and Pancreas Problems

  Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas caused by leakage of active digestive enzymes into the pancreatic tissue. This causes various clinical signs but most pets affected by acute pancreatitis have abdominal pain, depression and decreased appetite or lack of appetite.

• Pain Relief for Dogs

  Pain relief for dogs is a combination of medical treatment and rest to help the pet recuperate. Dogs suffering from pain refrain from play and outdoor activities, and appear depressed or lethargic.

• Ovaban and Cheque use in Dogs

  An alternative medication with less side effects, although not entirely free of problems, is megestrol acetate (Ovaban Rx). This is a pill. It can be given right at the start of the estrus to delay it a while or given in anticipation of estrus over a longer period of time.

• Orthopedic Benefits of Foam Dog Beds

  A foam dog bed provides pets with hip dysplasia and arthritis more support for their joints and muscles. A bed with special cushioning can also help your dog get a comfortable night's sleep.

• Nine Dog Health Questions to Ask at the Animal Shelter

  You should always ask a series of important dog health questions before you take on the responsibility of caring for a rescue dog. While the vast majority of rescue dogs are mentally stable and physically healthy, some may have been abused or neglected in the past, or they may have suffered from any number of illnesses.

• Natural Remedies to Cure Halitosis in Dogs

  Halitosis or bad breath is frequently a problem in dogs. There are natural remedies to cure halitosis in dogs. Bad breath may point to different diseases, but may be caused by residues of food that are stuck between the teeth.

• Natural Health for Dogs: Organic Foods and Supplements

  Natural health for dogs has experienced a recent rise in popularity. There are a multitude of pet foods and supplements on the market today that are labeled ‘organic', but some owners aren't sure what that means.

• Natural Health for Cats and Dogs Explained

  Natural health for cats and dogs is a method of raising animals that mimics their natural ("wild") lifestyle as much as possible. Natural health comprises diet, holistic medicine and conventional veterinary medicine into an integrated whole to produce the best possible conditions for health and longevity for the animal.

• Medication and Your Dog

  There is a significant cost factor when treating a larger dog with Florinef (Rx). If compounding pharmacies can provide a less expensive alternative for patients with hypoadrenocorticism this may help some dogs who might not otherwise get medicated.

• Medication - Aspirin

  Aspirin has the same problems in dogs that it has in people. It can cause gastrointestinal upsets and ulcers if the GI signs are ignored. It can cause renal failure if overdosed. It causes an increase in clotting time.

• Medical Considerations for Taking Care of Dogs

  Taking care of dogs is not a difficult task if certain principles of pet care are followed. Dogs should be given necessary medical treatments and vaccinations on time.

• Male Dog Problems and Care

  Answers to all your questions about male dog health; an owner resource for maintaining a healthy stud dog and treating penis and prostate issues as well as male dog behavior topics.

• Maintaining Joint Health for Dogs Through Nutrition

  Joint health for dogs becomes more of an issue as a dog ages, but it can be better prevented early through good nutrition. Common joint problems for dogs are dysplasia of the hip and elbow, an abnormal growth or development on the joint, and arthritis, the painful stiffness and inflammation of the joints.

• Maintaining a Dog Health Record: The Essential Information

  You should keep a comprehensive dog health record from the very beginning of your dog's life; however, you can start one at any stage. It will assist you in providing preventative care on schedule, reporting health issues and emergencies to the vet and administering and monitoring any treatment prescribed.

• Lower Your Dog Health Insurance with Selective Coverage

  A way to cut those healthcare costs is by educating yourself on what's available. Today, you have bare-bones policies to selective coverage plans, which are based on your dog's individual needs and your budget.

• Kennel Cough: As If Being Locked Up Wasn’t Bad Enough…

  The kennel cough itself does not exist and become inflammed on its own but is caused by several viral infections -- all of which can be vaccinated early -- such as: canine distemper, canine adenovirus, canine parainfluenza virus...

• Keeping Dog Teeth Healthy and Strong

  Keeping your dog's teeth strong and healthy is one of the most important things you can do to prevent serious illness.

• It’s Your Turn - Tips From Our Readers

  Our readers share pet care tips, including commonly asked questions about flea control tips, declawing information, feeding info, and more.

• Is Natural Medicine Appropriate for All Dog Health Issues?

  There is an abundance of information currently available concerning dog health issues. Not only are traditional medical procedures, treatments and prescription medications available to prevent and cure many different health issues in dogs, but natural medicine and alternative treatments are now being discussed, offered and successfully implemented for all types of illnesses and disease.

• Is Canine Agility Training Safe?

  Canine agility can be a fun way to bond with your dog. Agility involves basic obedience as well as competition skills.

• Interpreting a Sudden Dog Weight Gain

  There are reasons for concern in the face of sudden dog weight gain. It's important to distinguish normal puppy weight gain from an abnormal amount of weight gain in a puppy.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

  I strongly agree with your feeling that it is better to control inflammatory bowel disease through dietary means than with corticosteroids, when it is possible to do that. It is also worth trying therapies other than corticosteroids prior to settling on them.
  

• Increasing Insurance For Your Older Dog

  Insurance for older dogs can be more expensive than plans for younger animals with most insurance companies. Various factors will cause premiums and surcharges to rise and some treatments may be excluded or more costly depending on your dog's condition.

• Illness Management - Caring for your Sick Dog

  Liquids can be hard to administer to dogs but usually it can be done by tilting their head back, holding their mouth shut by putting a hand around their muzzle and then working the tip of the syringe into the fold of the lip (back corner of the mouth) and giving the medication just slowly enough that it doesn't run out all over as the dog swallows.

• How to Exercise Your Dogs In The Winter

  Here are some suggestions for owners to ensure their dogs can plenty of exercise in the winter.

• How to Compare Dog Insurance

  When buying dog insurance it is important to compare and contrast policies and companies in order to get the best deal for your pet. Choosing the right plan for your dog requires research and consideration of how much coverage your dog needs, and what you can afford.

• How to Administer Dog Insulin

  Giving your dog insulin shots does not have to be a traumatic experience for you or for your pet. Giving insulin to a dog with diabetes is more common, and much easier than you might think.

• How Long Will Your Dog Live?

  The average North American and European dog today will live about 12.8 years, a significant increase over the last 100 years due to improved living conditions...

• How Long a Dog Leg Injury Takes to Heal

  Dog leg injury heal time can vary based on how complex the injury is, because the heal time of a canine leg cannot be determined simply...

• How Effective Is Acupuncture for Dogs

  Acupuncture for dogs and other pets is becoming more mainstream. Often thought of as a treatment for pain, veterinary acupuncture is being used successfully to treat other conditions as well.

• How Effective Are Natural Remedies for Dog Ailments?

  Natural remedies for dogs can effectively treat minor medical concerns in pets. Natural remedies don't use harsh chemical ingredients to cure pet ailments.

• How Contagious Are Sick Pets to Humans?

  Sick pets have the ability to transmit diseases, known as Zoonotic diseases, to humans. However, the risk to humans is much less if proper precautions...

• Hot Spots

  A hot spot starts because something irritates the dog's skin. The body's response is to either itch or create an inflammatory response at the site. In cases of itching, the dog then rubs, licks or chews the site and adds to the problem.

• Homeopathy for Dogs Examined

  Homeopathy for dogs is a type of alternative medicine that is growing in popularity. Homeopathy is based on the belief that all creatures have a self-healing response, and that medical conditions develop when this response is inhibited.

• Home Treatments for Common Dog Ailments

  There are several dog ailments that can be treated with home remedies. However, before starting any home therapy or treatment it's necessary to conduct a vet check to rule out serious diseases that can harm your pet if not treated with prompt medication.

• Home Remedies for Managing a Dog Fever

  Dog fever is a medical indication that something is wrong with your pet. If you check your dog's gums and find that they are not healthy pink in color it is likely that your dog is sick.

• Holistic Medicine for Dogs

  Holistic medicine for dogs focuses on treating the patient as a whole, and considers mental and emotional well-being as vital components of physical health. Holistic medicine often uses alternative therapies to help resolve mental, emotional and even spiritual dysfunction while simultaneously attempting to resolve physical medical conditions.

• Holistic Dog Health: Natural Care for Your Pet

  Holistic dog health is a more well-rounded approach to pet care that takes into account the dog's entire state, physical and emotional, as well as treating the source of your pet's health, issue rather than just the symptoms.

• Healthy Dog - Routine Maintenance

  Daily Water intake, feeding schedule and salt water drinking while at the beach and urine killing the grass

• Healthy Dog - Normal Values

  The "ideal" weight for a dog is approximately the weight where the last 3 to 5 ribs are just barely visible or can be felt with a very light touch. Many dogs are overweight and many dog owners feel their dog is too thin if they can see any ribs.

• Health Insurance for Dogs: From Liability to Full Coverage

  Health insurance for dogs varies and so do deductibles and annual payments. Most include the standard “healthy dog” procedures, while selective policies cover accidents, emergencies, and chronic illnesses

• Health Food for Dogs: A Look at Commercial Formulas

  Commercial health food for dogs is not always all that nutritious when it comes to ingredients. Owners should look for quality ingredients that mostly come from protein, with limited carbohydrates and grains.

• Health Considerations With Day Care for Dogs

  Day care for dogs has become a way for people to keep their dogs happy and healthy when they are away from home for the day. Before taking your dog to day care, there are a few things to consider to ensure their health is safe.

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