In This Issue

● Your Dog’s Heat-Sensing Nose
● Vet Treats Pets Of The Homeless
● Dangers Of Dog Walking Apps
● 13 Ways We Confuse Our Dogs
● Why Do Dogs Hate Nail Trims?
● Idiopathic Vestibular Disease

Recent Food Recalls

02/07/20 – 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

Your Dog’s Cold Nose Can Actually Detect Heat

The canine nose is uniquely adapted to help them locate food, recognize good and bad humans, and generally navigate their world. They rely on their noses the way we humans depend on our eyes.

Most recently, researchers have discovered that our dogs’ noses can actually detect heat. This adaptation is likely used to help wild canids locate prey and avoid predators.

Heat detection may not sound like a big deal, but dogs are only the second species of mammal known to have this trait!

Find out how scientists made this exciting discovery, and what it means for your pup.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Blueberries, broccoli, and several other fresh, healthy foods help promote eye health in dogs.

HEALTH ALERT #2

This Vet Provides Free Care To The Pets Of The Homeless

No matter how grim world news may get, there is always a story to remind us of the goodness in humanity. This week we learned about Dr. Kwane Stewart, otherwise known as “The Street Vet.”

Dr. Stewart spends his free time searching the streets of Los Angeles for homeless pets in need. He provides free exams and services to the animals, and a bit of human connection to their owners.

Learn how this generous soul got his start and how you can help support his mission of love and hope.

QUIZ OF THE WEEK

What is the best way to train your dog to tolerate nail trims?

1. Yell at him when he squirms.
2. Use a Dremmel instead of clippers.
3. Practice Body Handling techniques.

Not sure? Read on to find the answer!

IN THE NEWS

The Dangers Of Entrusting Your Dog To App-Based Dog Walkers

There is an app for everything these days, and pet care is no exception. Dog walking/pet sitting companies Wag! and Rover are worth $650 million and $970 million, respectively.

Despite their obvious success, multiple horror stories have surfaced about both services. Some involve robbery while all-too-many others involve the injury, death, or loss of a pet.

In a 2018 article for OutsideOnline.com, writer Wes Siler shared his own panic-inducing experiences with both companies. Just this week, the consumer group, Checkbook.org announced their own warnings regarding Wag! and Rover.

Find out what they discovered, and what they recommend for app-loving dog parents.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

When checking your dog for ticks, be sure to search warm, dark areas like between toes, under collars, and inside ears.

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

13 Ways We Confuse & Frustrate Our Dogs

We share our lives very closely with dogs. We hug them, speak to them, and even refer to them as our “children.” With such a tight relationship, it is easy to forget just how different our two species really are.

Sometimes the dog/parent dynamic can lead to major misunderstandings between us and our pups. Just remember, loving them like family is great as long as we treat them like dogs!

Are you guilty of any of these confusing and frustrating practices humans subject their dogs to?

VET CORNER

Why Do Dogs Hate Having Their Nails Trimmed?

by Dr. Kathryn Primm

After more than 15 years as a veterinary technician, I can count the number of dogs that tolerate nail trims on one hand. Most seem to prefer just about any other procedure – including blood draws – over a “pedicure.”

Our pups have a near-universal fear and distrust of nail trims, and it turns out they have a few good excuses.

iHeartDogs’ resident vet, Dr. Kathryn Primm breaks down the three main reasons dogs hate having their nails trimmed, and how your veterinary professionals can help ease some of the stress.

READER QUESTION

Understanding Idiopathic Vestibular Disease

Healthy Hound subscriber, Theresa adopted her dog, Harp from the streets of Thailand three years ago. He is about 13 years old and was recently diagnosed with Idiopathic Vestibular Disease (IVD), a condition most commonly seen in older dogs.

IVD occurs when the balance mechanism within the inner ear malfunctions causing a head tilt, wobbly gait, rapid eye movement, and more. The symptoms come on rather suddenly, often causing dog owners to mistake IVD for a stroke.

While this condition looks very frightening, it is generally painless and often improves with little to no treatment.

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:

3. Practice Body Handling techniques. Many grooming and veterinary procedures are stressful to dogs because they simply are not used to being handled. Take the time to teach your dog the concept of positive touch and grooming/vet appointments will be much easier for everyone!

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