In This Issue

● Save Money At The Vet
● Dog Parks: Fun Or Folly?
● The Underdogs Of Westminster
● Why Dogs Dislike Some People
● Vet Corner: 19 Dog Emergencies
● Reader Q: Causes Of Seizures

Recent Food Recalls

01/16/20 – UK Happy Hounds Frozen Raw Dog Food
01/16/20 – Black Hawk Dry Dog Food
09/26/19 – Performance Dog Raw Pet Food
08/31/19 – Aunt Jeni’s Frozen Raw Dog Food

HEALTH ALERT #1

10 Ways To Save Money At The Vet’s Office

Veterinary care can be extremely expensive, especially when there is an unexpected illness or injury. In fact, the inability to pay for care is one of the top reasons dogs are euthanized, given up to shelters or abandoned.

Money should never be the reason a loving dog parent has to say goodbye to a furry family member.

Veterinarian, Nancy Kay is the author of Speaking for Spot, a book that helps dog owners become well-informed medical advocates for their pets – and save a little money in the process!

Dr. Kay recommends 10 methods for spending less at the vet without compromising your dog’s care.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Is your dog prone to car sickness? Try cracking the windows. This balances the air pressure within the car, helping to stave off nausea and discomfort.

HEALTH ALERT #2

Is The Fun Of The Dog Park Worth The Risks?

According to the Trust for Public Land, there has been a 40 percent increase in the development of dog parks since 2009. They provide a community meeting place for dogs and the people who love them to exercise and socialize with one another.

But are dog parks actually good for our pups? How about for us? Experts aren’t so sure.

Among their concerns are the risk of negative interactions that could impact a young puppy’s developing demeanor or cause an older dog to develop bad habits.

Additionally, dogs and humans are at risk for injuries when fights break out or playtime gets too boisterous.

To top it all off, even the cleanest dog parks can pose health risks, especially the spread of parasites and easily communicable diseases.

Find out how the American Animal Hospital Association recommends owners protect their dogs and learn about fun, healthy dog park alternatives.

QUIZ OF THE WEEK

What percentage of dogs have reoccurring seizures with no identifiable cause?

1. 2%
2. 5%
3. 12%

Not sure? Read on to find the answer!

IN THE NEWS

Meet The Fabulous Underdogs Of The Westminster Dog Show

The annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was once a stuffy affair most modern pup lovers would roll their eyes at. Though the competition is still only for purebreds, in 2014 Westminster added agility events to include mixed breeds, which they refer to as “All American” dogs.

With the 144th Westminster Dog Show coming up on February 10 and 11, the folks at Insider.com rounded up 16 of the most inspiring underdog stories from past events.

There’s Pomeranian Great Elms Prince Charming II, the smallest dog to ever win Best in Show. He delighted fans in 1988, weighing in at just 4.5 pounds.

And how can we forget, All American Dog, Lonnie? Once “afraid of everything,” her owner turned to obedience training and agility to build her confidence. She went on to strut her stuff at the 2017 Masters of Agility event.

Learn all about Westminster’s most inspiring underdogs and wonderdogs.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Studies show dogs that regularly use their minds to solve problems and puzzles are less likely to develop dementia later in life. Challenge your dog’s brain today!

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

5 Reasons Dogs Do Not Like Certain People

Think you can get on a dog’s good side with a handful of treats? Think again! Our canine companions have an uncanny ability to sense disingenuous and unsavory humans.

They might growl if the person comes close or simply turn tail and run. It may seem random, but these abilities go well beyond instinct.

From nervous tone of voice to rude or threatening body language, you just can’t fool a dog into liking you!

VET CORNER

19 Conditions That Require IMMEDIATE Veterinary Care

by Dr. Karen Becker

Do you know how to determine which canine injuries and illnesses can be safely taken care of at home and which require immediate veterinary attention?

You don’t want to add to an already uncomfortable dog’s stress with an unnecessary vet visit, but it is best to err on the side of caution when it comes to their health and safety.

Remember that dogs are incredibly stoic. If they are showing signs of discomfort, there’s a good chance the situation is worse than they are letting on.

Dr. Karen Becker has collected 19 canine medical issues that require emergency veterinary care as well as 3 urgent (but non-emergency) situations, and several tips to treat minor injuries and illnesses at home.

READER QUESTION

What Are The Causes Of Seizures In Dogs?

Seizures in dogs can be extremely frustrating and frightening, especially when the root cause is unknown. According to VetSpecialists.com, 5% of dogs are diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. This means they have reoccurring seizures with “no identifiable structural cause.”

When the cause of seizures is known it can often be traced back to a tumor, infection, existing medical condition, or accidental exposure to a toxin or allergen.

If your dog suffers from seizures, it is important to understand the different types and phases as well as how to protect them from harm during the convulsions.

Do you have a question or topic you’d like The Healthy Hound to address in an upcoming newsletter? Click here to let us know!

Quiz Answer:

2. Per VetSpecialists.com, 5% of dogs suffer from reoccurring seizures with “no identifiable structural cause.” The condition is known as Idiopathic Epilepsy.

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