Chances are, you know your dog’s mannerisms and behaviors pretty darn well, and you can tell when they’re excited, hungry, scared, and the like. But signs your dog is in pain can be less obvious, especially if it’s a new symptom and they’re exhibiting a behavior that you’re not used to seeing. If your pup is showing one or more of the signs below, it’s best to call your vet for a check-up. Whether the issue is minor or major, … Read more
Have you heard the buzz about laser therapy for dogs? In a surprising twist, lasers were first used on humans 40 years ago, long before they were used on animals. There are decades of research to show that lasers are safe and effective for people, and the technology has finally moved into veterinary medicine with Class IV “cold lasers.” These lasers are being used to treat a wide variety of ailments with no side effects. What do you need to … Read more
Acupuncture may seem like some sort of ancient hocus pocus, but studies are showing that it can be a very useful tool in the field of canine veterinary medicine. How can sticking needles in your dog’s skin be anything but painful? What could it possibly be used to treat? What’s the future of acupuncture? If you have an open mind about alternative therapies, you need to read on about this ancient – and also groundbreaking – treatment. What is acupuncture, anyway? … Read more
Inter-dog aggression is normal and acceptable among wild dogs. It serves many important purposes from establishing pack heirarchy, to defending offspring and self preservation. To your dog, displaying aggressive body language, growling, snarling, and even snapping at another pup makes perfect social sense in certain situations. In most cases, two dogs can work out their differences without escalating to a fight, but if your dog’s aggressive reactions are frequent, extreme, and irrational, it is time to consult a trainer … Read more
Some dogs just can’t seem to hold their “licker”! Whether they are licking you, your furniture, the floors, themselves, or just flapping their tongues, there is usually a medical or behavioral explanation. Read on to find out why your pooch is licking and what you should do to remedy it. 1. Affection When your dog showers you with joyful licks after a long day apart, it really does mean he’s happy to see you! Affectionate licking starts at birth. Mother … Read more
The thought of our pups being in pain is deeply distressing, and the idea of them silently suffering is even worse. Unfortunately, our dogs can’t tell us how they’re feeling by using words; but if you watch for certain signs, they can let us know that something is wrong through their behavior and body language. Below are 5 of the most common conditions that cause dogs pain, as well as signs that your dog is suffering – and what you can do about it. … Read more
Have you ever seen a speedy little Chihuahua suddenly stop running and “skip” on one of his rear legs? Chances are, that dog has kneecap dislocation, or luxating patellas. The condition is extremely common in miniature and toy breeds and can range from a minor nuisance all the way to a debilitating problem requiring surgical correction. Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Yorkshire Terriers are among the dog breeds predisposed to luxating patellas. They are born with very shallow grooves in the area … Read more
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a condition that causes the cushioning pads between the bones of the spine to deteriorate, bulge outward or rupture. While any dog may experience this painful condition, there are certain breeds with genetic predispositions for IVDD. Dachshunds are at the top of that list. Approximately 25% of Dachshunds will require veterinary treatment as a result of intervertebral disc damage at some point in their lives. For some dogs it will be mild and treated with … Read more
