What is the 7 second rule for dogs? >
The 7 second rule is a simple test for checking if the pavement is too hot for a dog’s paws. You can perform this test by placing the back of your hand onto the pavement and trying to hold it there for 7 seconds. If it is hot enough that you would not be able to hold your hand there, then it is also too hot for your dog. While the second tip of this guideline is meant for leash walks during summer, afternoon and mid-morning should be the preferred times for these walks. Dogs’ paws are vulnerable to serious burn injuries while walking on hot surfaces.
How to soothe anxiety in dogs? >
Many natural methods can help ease anxiety and stress in dogs. It is best to follow a fixed schedule as dogs respond well to being on a routine. Dogs often benefit from gentle music or background noise, especially when they are left alone. Dogs that fear storms or loud sounds can be comforted by a Thundershirt or an anxiety wrap. Make sure they get daily physical activity so they can release pent-up energy, reduce stress, and relax. Mental stimulation is equally important and can be achieved with puzzles and scent games, as they engage the dog’s brain. Social grooming, which mimics social bonding, can also soothe dogs. Finally, CBD and chamomile (with veterinary approval) are gentler supplements that can help support a dog's health.
How do you treat a sick dog at home? >
As a pet owner, ensuring your pet remains hydrated should be the first step in caring for them when they are sick. Offer your pet small amounts of cooled boiled water throughout the day. Refrain from offering water for a few hours if your dog has a tummy ache. Once it seems to stabilize, offer bland food like chicken or fish boiled and served alongside rice. Steer away from fatty and seasoned food. Monitor their symptoms closely for more than a day, if they using vomiting, diarrhea, feeling lazy, or get worse, contact your vet. Remember, home care is not an alternative to professional treatment when it comes to pets' health.
What are common health issues in dogs? >
Like most pets, dogs experience health problems throughout their lives. Fleas and ticks are external parasites that are common. Skin Disease Management can also come up as a secondary issue, along with other problems that are faced, like teeth and joints. Other common issue that comes across dogs are ear infections, overweight, and stomach problems. There are also breeds that are more susceptible to specific issues, like hip dysplasia and congenital malformations affecting respiration. Good dog care, along with regular vet checks, vaccinations, and a well-balanced diet, helps in controlling these conditions and enhances the overall health of dogs.
How to tell if a dog is in pain? >
Although dogs may be adept at hiding pain, changes in behavior have been flagged to provide relative indicators. For instance, increased whining, reluctance to move, withdrawal, and eating hardly any food. Other cited indicators include a marked increase in breath rate and aggression when licked in certain spots, or excessive licking of specific areas. Sounds like a dog? Excessive help from stiffness? If your dog shows any of these signs, visit the vet. Proper pain management is critical for enabling a dog to play and exercise freely without restrictions.
