Beyond Washing The Dog

Keeping your dog clean is an important responsibility for every dog owner. Fido depends on you for general hygiene. Clean ears, teeth and a coat free from fleas and ticks are all the conditions you check for a healthy pet. Bath time is a great time to bond with your dog as well as check his well-being.

A healthy dogs actually don’t need to be washed all that often, but humans prefer to bathe them so that they smell fresh and clean and not like...well…dog. Although most dogs don’t like to be washed, they will appreciate the contact and attention that they receive from their owners during a bath. It is also a good time to perform some other necessary “dog maintenance” such as cleaning the ears, checking for ticks and fleas, and brushing the teeth. Since many dogs do not like to sit still for any of these activities, it can be a good idea to do them all at once.

Brushing your dogs’ teeth is just good dental hygiene. Most vets recommend that it be done at least twice a week to ensure your dog maintains healthy teeth and gums. If you’ve have been doing this, it’s never too late to start. The dog should have its own toothbrush and special toothpaste designed for dogs. You pick up everything you need at your favorite pet supply store. Make sure you brush the back teeth in small circles, the same way you would your own, and brush up and down the length of the “pointy” canine teeth. Dog toothpaste is made to have a pleasing taste, to dogs that is, and this should help make your dog willing to let you perform this activity. If you cannot brush his teeth, the next best thing would be to give him teeth cleaning dog biscuits but brushing is definitely preferred.

Checking for Ticks and Fleas
Save 80% on Frontline Plus
Ticks are nasty little arachnids (they’re eight-legged creatures like spiders, and therefore are not insects) that will latch onto your dog’s skin and feed on his blood supply. They are most common in wooded areas, but your dog should be checked for them regularly because they can carry a number of diseases. The best place to look for these bugs in under the collar or on the dog’s underbelly, buried in the fur. If you find a tick, be sure to use tweezers and remove the tick by its head.

Fleas can be found in the same places, under the fur. The presence of fleas can be betrayed by the sight of their droppings on the dog’s coat. They look like flecks of pepper. The fleas themselves can vary in size, from tiny infants to larger adults, which are about an eighth of an inch long. They can’t simply be picked off the dog like ticks can, they will jump before you can catch them. If you do find a flea or their droppings, you know it’s time to start the dog on a program to control and eliminate these pests.

Cleaning his Ears

Pet supply stores sell special solutions for cleansing a dog’s ears. Dogs can easily get ear mites. These small insects live in the ears and feed of the waxy secretions there. Over time, the bodies of these short-lived creatures build up and form a black, dirty substance. Using a cotton swab dipped in a bit of this solution, gently clean the inner ear. It may be difficult to hold the dog still for this procedure, but it doesn’t take long. The result will be clean ears and the avoidance of potential infection and earaches for your dog.

So you see, the quality time you spend bathing your dog will not only make him smell great to you but it will make him FEEL great.

Fleas and Your Dog

Fleas are probably the most successful creatures on the planet in terms of reproduction. There are over 2,400 species and they are difficult to control for a variety of reasons: One female flea will produce 25,000 offspring in one month. An unfed adult can live for several months. The chemicals used to eradicate adult dog fleas have no effect on the eggs. Fleas are very good at mutating to resist new pesticides.

Your Ad Here

Dog Pajamas

Cozy pajamas keep your dog warm and looking adorable
65-percent polyester and 35-percent cotton construction
Fit dogs 10 to 12 inches from base of neck to base of tail
Design includes back flap and large button detail
Lounging has never been more comfortable

Cuddling with your dog on those cool winter nights will feel great for both of you. Design details include a back flap and large button detail.

Aromatherapy for dogs:Stop Your Dog's Diet

Get the information you need for your Dog's Diet Click Here!

When to Stop Your Dog's Diet

There are times when you should stop your dog's diet immediately. Although these situations occur rarely, it is important to know when and how to cease your dog's diet.

Typically, pet owners are advised to make changes to a dog's diet gradually. Consistency is frequently the rule of thumb when it comes to your dog's diet. Sudden changes to your dog's diet often cause your pet stress and trouble, but at times, stopping your dog's diet immediately is necessary.

If your pet will be having a medical procedure performed that involves the use of anesthesia, your vet may recommend that you stop feeding your pet for a period of time before the procedure. As always, follow the advice of your trusted vet. He or she knows the dangers to your pet regarding surgery with a full stomach.

If you expect sudden changes and stress in your dog's life, such as a move to a new location, your pet may refuse to eat his typical diet. During the first day with a guide dog in training, trainers recommend to skip a meal to avoid stomach upset during this extreme time of stress for the dog. If you have concerns about stopping your dog's diet due to stress and illness, consult your vet for advice.
Get the information you need for your Dog's Diet Click Here!


In light of recent pet food recalls, you will want to be prepared should you need to stop your dog's diet suddenly for safety reasons. In some cases, your dog may have already shown signs of upset or disinterest in contaminated food, but if not, take no chances with the health of your pet in the event of a recall. If your type of dog food has been recalled, stop feeding it as part of your dog's diet immediately. If possible, locate a new bag or can of the same variety of dog food that is safe for your pet. This will reduce any disruption to your dog's diet and routine.

If you are uncomfortable or unable to locate dog food that is safe in the same variety, you may want to cook a meal for your pet to substitute as your regular dog diet until you can. At this time, you simply may just have to switch varieties or brands of dog food.

As mentioned before, a sudden switch in your dog's diet is not typically recommended, but in the interest of your dog's health, it may be necessary. Should this be the case, try to locate another type of dog food that is similar to your dog's diet in quality. This will help to reduce any digestive issues.

Your vet will best be able to advise you, but expect some digestive trouble such as gas or diarrhea during a sudden diet change. Of course, you will want to keep an eye on this situation, but it is not necessarily a sign of poor quality food. Your dog's digestive tract is not used to significant changes, so it will take a period of time to adjust to the new diet.

A sudden switch or cease of your dog's diet is not typically recommended as the way to go, but in some instances, it is for the best. Always talk to your vet about any change to your dog's diet and follow the advice. Your dog's safety is the utmost concern. Get the information you need for your Dog's Diet Click Here!

Don't Let Your Dog Die Young CLICK HERE