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The Healthy Hound Newsletter #36

Written by: Dina Fantegrossi
Dina Fantegrossi is the Assistant Editor and Head Writer for HomeLife Media. Before her career in writing, Dina was a veterinary technician for more than 15 years.Read more
| Published on June 27, 2020

In This Issue

● Why Fleas Are So Hard To Kill
● Dog Odors & What They Mean
● Man & Furry BFF Recover Together
● Are Big Dogs Smarter Than Small Dogs?
● Is It Safe For Your Dog To Lick You?
● Shelter Dog Maternity Shoots

Recent Food Recalls

6/12/20 – Carnivora Fresh Frozen Patties
3/23/20 – IcelandicPlus Fish Treats
2/14/20 – Aunt Jeni’s Frozen Raw Pet Food
2/07/20 – UK Happy Hounds Frozen Raw Dog Food
1/16/20 – Black Hawk Dry Dog Food

HEALTH ALERT #1

Why You Can’t Get Rid Of Your Dog’s Flea Infestation

When it comes to fleas, an ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure! Once these little buggers get a foothold on your dog and in your home they are very difficult to get rid of.

There are several reasons a flea infestation is so tough to conquer, but don’t worry, there is hope. In addition to your monthly flea preventative product, you will need to treat your dog’s environment including your home, yard, and even your car.

These 5 safe, natural tips will help you eradicate your dog’s flea problem once and for all.

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Help your pup stay chill this summer with an Aromatherapy Cooling Pad.

HAPPY, HEALTHY MUST HAVES

One Delicious Chew Supports Your Dog’s Skin, Coat, Teeth & More

The Omega fatty acids found in Antarctic krill help support cellular, immune, and cardiac health, as well as brain and eye development. They also promote healthy skin, shiny coats, and strong joints. That’s pretty impressive for a tiny crustacean!

In addition to their plentiful health benefits, Happy, Healthy™️ Antarctic Krill Omega Dental Sticks are designed to scrub away plaque and prevent tartar build up on teeth. A touch of peppermint oil means your pup is left with fresh breath and a healthier mouth.

Best of all, each bag provides 14 meals for shelter dogs as they await their forever homes!

QUIZ OF THE WEEK

Why do dog feet smell like corn chips?

  1. Bacteria & Yeast
  2. Mold & Fungi
  3. Parasites

Not sure? Read on to find the answer!

HEALTH ALERT #2

What’s That Smell? 5 Tell-Tale Dog Odors & What They Mean

Veterinarians are trained to use their noses as well as their eyes when performing an exam. Odors from the mouth, ears, skin, and backside can tell them a lot about your dog’s health.

Not all unpleasant aromas indicate a problem. After all, some dogs just like to roll in stinky substances like roadkill and mystery poop.

However, these 5 red flag smells could indicate your dog is in need of veterinary attention.

IN THE NEWS

Man & Furry BFF Recover Together After Life-Changing Health Events

Rick Slater and his beloved Dachshund, Banjo have always been inseparable, but earlier this year their bond was really put to the test. In the course of one week, Slater suffered a stroke and Banjo became paralyzed in his hind end.

Both required exercise to fuel their recovery and stave off depression, so they began going for special walks together. Slater at a slower pace than before, and Banjo in an old wagon that once belonged to his human “siblings.”

Find out how Slater and his “miracle dog” are doing today!

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Ear infections are more prevalent in summer. Clean your dog’s ears regularly, especially after swimming or bathing.

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

Are Big Dogs Smarter Than Small Dogs?

In his book The Intelligence of Dogs, Stanley Coren, Ph.D identifies three different types of canine intelligence: instinctive, adaptive, and working/obedience.

Most existing research focuses on obedience and work-related skills. While it may not be the truest test of brain power, medium and large dogs tend to outperform their smaller cousins in this category.

Researchers suspect that physical differences, variations in personality and temperament, and even the way owners interact with small dogs as opposed to larger dogs may be responsible for the disparity.

Want to help your dog hone his problem-solving skills? Try these 7 simple exercises.

VET CORNER

Lotions & Creams: Is It Safe For Your Dog To Lick You?

by Dr. Tina Wismer DVM, DABVT, DABT

Dr. Tina Wismer, Medical Director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, is often asked why dogs love to lick their owners after they apply lotion.

Some pets simply like the smell and/or taste, and most over-the-counter lotions and creams are unlikely to cause serious problems. However, some contain compounds that may cause life-threatening symptoms if ingested.

Dr. Wismer lists 15 potentially-harmful topical lotions and creams dog parents should keep well out of reach from their pups.

TIS THE SEASON

Shelter Celebrates Mama Dogs With Special Maternity Photo Shoots

Puppy season is upon us, and one Virginia shelter is making the best of a challenging situation.

Homeward Trails Animal Rescue recently took in three pregnant mama dogs. Instead of stressing about the influx of hungry puppies heading their way, they decided to celebrate the sweet strays with adorable maternity photo shoots!

Shelter staff hope the photos will generate adoption interest for the three moms and their pups. They also hope to raise awareness about the importance of controlling the stray population through spaying and neutering.

CHECK OUT SHELLY, SASSY, & FIONA’S CUTEST PICS!

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:

1. Bacteria & Yeast. The hair on your dog’s feet provides a great environment for bacteria and yeast to grow, thrive, and multiply, leading to the famous “Frito-foot” aroma.

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