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I'm happy to share useful information below from training to medical to older dogs to feeding to ... well I tend to ramble so I've used bold headers so you can scan faster or use a control F search feature on your keyboard to find a word. I will attempt to organize this into categories. This blog is a work in progress so please bear with me. If you have a question you not see on our blog, please do contact us as you are probably not the only one and I will research and address it for you.

Fruit and Vegetable Safety For Dogs

1/26/2023

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Raw yeast
Raw yeast cells multiply too quickly for dogs’ gastrointestinal tracts. When dogs swallow unbaked dough, it can continue to rise, creating a risk of blockage or even rupture of the dog’s GI tract. In instances when a very large amount of yeast is eaten, the yeast also ferments inside the dog, producing alcohol, in which case alcohol poisoning can occur.  use your best judgement on when to involve the vet.
If you bake breads from scratch, or have yeast in your kitchen for any other reason, remember to keep it – rising dough in particular – in a safe, dog-proof location.

I admit a lot of this is copied I've added it just to provide some potentially important info:

Fruits, nuts & Vegetables

Apples – Yes. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy warm weather snack. Read More >

Bananas – Yes. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog’s regular diet.

Watermelon – Yes. It’s important to remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon is otherwise safe for dogs. It’s full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Watermelon is 92 percent water, so it’s a great way to keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days. Read more >

Grapes – No. Grapes and raisins have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Definitely skip this dangerous treat. Read More >

Strawberries – Yes. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as he or she eats them. They are high in sugar though, so be sure to give them in moderation. Read More >

Oranges – Yes. Small dogs can have up to 1/3 of a full-size orange, while large dogs can eat the whole thing. While the peel isn’t toxic to them, vets recommend tossing the peel and just giving your dog the inside of the orange, minus the seeds, as the peel is much more rough on their digestive systems than the fleshy inside of the orange.

Blueberries – Yes. Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. They’re packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries as an alternative to store-bought treats. Read More >

Carrots – Yes. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on the orange snacks is great for your dog’s teeth. Read More >

Tomatoes – No. While the ripened fruit of the tomato plant (the red part humans normally eat) is generally considered safe for dogs, the green parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called solanine. While a dog would need to eat a large amount for it to make him or her sick, it’s better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe. Read More >

Pineapple – Yes. A few chunks of pineapple is a great sweet treat for dogs as long as the prickly outside is removed first. The tropical fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins.  Read More >

Avocado – No. While avocado may be a healthy snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs at all. The pit, skin and leaves of avocados contain Persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The fleshy inside of the fruit doesn’t have as much Persin as the rest of the plant, but it is still too much for dogs to handle.

Broccoli – Yes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. On the surface, this makes it an appealing choice for dog owners looking for a healthy dog treat, but broccoli also contains a potentially harmful ingredient. Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Also, broccoli stalks have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus.
     
Mushrooms – No. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only 50 to 100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the ones that are can really hurt your dog or even lead to death. Washed mushrooms from the supermarket could be OK, but it’s better to be safe than sorry; skip out on the fungi all together.

Cucumbers – Yes. Cucumbers are especially good for overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates, fats, or oils and can even boost energy levels. They’re loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.

Celery – Yes. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, celery also known to freshen doggy breath.

Onions – No. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats. Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs such as Akitas and Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it.

Pears – Yes. Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide.

Potatoes – Yes. It’s fine to give your dog plain potatoes every once and a while, but only if they’re cooked, as raw potatoes can be rough on the stomach. A washed, peeled, plain boiled, or baked potato contains lots of iron for your pet. Avoid mashed potatoes because they often contain butter, milk, or seasonings.

Cherries – No. With the exception of the fleshy part around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dog’s blood cells can’t get enough oxygen. If your dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as these may be signs of cyanide poisoning.

Peaches – Yes. Small amounts of cut-up peaches are a great source of fiber and vitamin A, and can even help fight infections, but just like cherries, the pit does contain cyanide. As long as you completely cut around the pit first, fresh peaches can be a great summer treat – just not canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary syrups.

Asparagus – No. While asparagus isn’t necessarily unsafe for dogs, there’s really no point in giving it to them. It’s too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so it’s soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the nutrients it contains. If you’re determined to give your dogs vegetables, go for something that will actually benefit them.

Sweet potatoes – Yes. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, including fiber, beta carotene, and vitamins B-6 and C. Just like with regular potatoes, only give your dog washed, peeled, cooked, and unseasoned sweet potatoes that have cooled down, and definitely avoid sugary sweet potato pies and casseroles.

Raspberries – Yes. Raspberries are fine in moderation. They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They’re low in sugar and calories, but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for senior dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help take pain and pressure from joints. However, they do contain slight amounts of the toxin Xylitol, so limit your dog to less than a cup of raspberries at a time.

Mango – Yes. This sweet summer treat is packed with four, yes four different vitamins: vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha carotene. Just remember, as with most fruits, to remove the hard pit first, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard.

Macadamia nut- The good news is that we have no documented cases of macadamia nut poisoning that has led to death. It alleviates after it passes through the dog – in around 12 to 36 hours. The bad news is symptoms are dramatic. Hind-end weakness, lethargy, depression, vomiting, and diarrhea all come after eating as little as 1 gram of macadamia nuts per pound of a dog’s body weight.
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Canning Your Own Chicken

1/26/2023

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We raise most of our own food organically since I am admittedly anti-chemical to a point.  we use those large turkey cookers to cook perhaps a dozen chickens over night (you can use store bought chicken hopefully finding a nice sale).

Basic steps are cook until practically falling off the bone, let cool, de-bone, can the meat - see most universities canning procedures for caning meat and adjust for your altitude. 75 minutes a pint and 90 a quart. look up the pressure for your altitude.

Toss remaining skin - bones - meat stuck to bones - etc into your pressure cooker. what you want is the bones to crush easily between your fingers.

Strain broth off and can separately for you or your dogs use. Can or freeze the rest. Noting a salmon can with the sloped side make an easy to remove "hockey puck" frozen treat for your dog.  We save the canned product to mix in with some rice or barley or?  for cooking in the winter on the wood stove to give the dogs a warm treat meal.

  • Increase in DCM in dogs may be linked to diet  - excerpt.
  • Grain free feeds being investigated
  • FDA investigating connection between canine heart disease and pet food ingredients

    Instances of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) may be correlated to specific ingredients in pet foods, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    The agency is warning veterinary professionals about occurrences of the disease in dogs consuming foods containing peas, lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes as main ingredients. The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and the Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN), a collaboration of government and veterinary diagnostic laboratories, are investigating this potential association.

    https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/increase-in-dcm-in-dogs-may-be-linked-to-diet/
​
  • “The FDA is investigating a potential dietary link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and dogs eating certain grain-free pet foods. The foods of concern are those containing legumes such as peas or lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes listed as primary ingredients. The FDA began investigating this matter after it received a number of reports of DCM in dogs that had been eating these diets for a period of months to years. DCM itself is not considered rare in dogs, but these reports are unusual because the disease occurred in breeds of dogs not typically prone to the disease.”
    After the advisory, 149 new cases of DCM were reported to the FDA.
    What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy?

    Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a type of canine heart disease that affects the heart muscle. The hearts of dogs with DCM have a decreased ability to pump blood, which often results in congestive heart failure.

    Some breeds, especially large and giant breeds, have a predisposition to DCM. These breeds include Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds, and Saint Bernards. While DCM is less common in medium and small breeds, English and American Cocker Spaniels are also predisposed to this condition.

    When early reports from the veterinary cardiology community indicated that recent, atypical cases in breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Whippets, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus all consistently ate grain alternatives in their diets, the FDA took notice.
    Should you be Concerned About Grain-Free Diets?

    According to Dr. Klein, “At this time, there is no proof that these ingredients are the cause of DCM in a broader range of dogs, but dog owners should be aware of this alert from the FDA. The FDA continues to work with veterinary cardiologists and veterinary nutritionists to better understand the effect, if any, of grain-free diets on dogs.”

    In the Dec. 1 2018 version of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, PhD, DACVN, provided an update to the research on DCM and emphasized the issue is not just grain-free diets. She calls the suspected diets “BEG” diets (boutique companies, exotic ingredients, or grain-free diets).

    “The apparent link between BEG diets and DCM may be due to ingredients used to replace grains in grain-free diets, such as lentils or chickpeas, but also may be due to other common ingredients commonly found in BEG diets, such as exotic meats, vegetables, and fruits,” Freeman wrote.
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Feeding A Sick Dog

1/26/2023

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Decreased appetite, upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting make caring for a sick dog stressful for both you and your pet. A bland diet can help relieve some of these symptoms while also giving your dog the nutrition he needs to recover. Some recipes for dogs with mild stomach upset, including gas, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. note - checking with your vet to rule out anything more serious that the occasional off day or food sensitivity is prudent.

chicken and rice for dogs
Chicken and rice are prime ingredients in many dog foods, and these mild foods sit well on upset canine stomachs. Plus, this bland meal is easy to prepare. All you need are boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rice. White rice is lower in nutritional value than brown rice, but its blandness makes it more suitable for upset stomachs. Oils, butter, and added seasonings can irritate your dog’s stomach and make the problem worse, so stick with plain boiled chicken and rice. Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and cut or shred it into small, bite-sized pieces for your dog, since enthusiastic canines might choke on this unexpected treat.


**   see my notes on how we prepare chicken for us and the dogs

Chicken Breast
Shredded chicken is easy on upset stomachs and acts as a huge eating incentive for dogs with decreased appetites. Plain, unseasoned, boiled, shredded chicken is easy to digest and is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fats, and amino acids, making it a great snack for dogs feeling under the weather. Chicken keeps in the fridge for three-to-four days, or you can freeze it for two-to-six months. or can it for years to come.


Sweet Potatoes

Dogs love this orange vegetable. Not only is it a great treat, but it also has many health benefits. Sweet potatoes are frequently used in dog food products because they are high in fiber and full of vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.

The fiber in sweet potatoes helps regulate dogs with intestinal difficulties like loose stools or constipation. Unseasoned, plain, peeled, cooked, and mashed sweet potatoes make a healthy addition to your pet’s existing diet. Talk to your vet about how much sweet potato to feed your dog. If you plan on continuing to use sweet potatoes as a dietary supplement, scoop them into tablespoon-size balls and freeze them for convenience.

Pumpkin
Pumpkin and sweet potato have similar digestive health benefits. Like sweet potatoes, pumpkin is also high in fiber, which helps regulate canine digestive systems. Cooked, peeled, unsalted, and unseasoned pumpkin contains vitamin E, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, potassium, copper, and manganese, giving your dog a nutritional boost along with a little digestive help.

Adding pumpkin to your dog’s meal usually helps regulate mild constipation. Veterinarians recommend one to four tablespoons of pumpkin, depending on your dog’s size. Canned pumpkin is a convenient alternative to preparing pumpkin yourself, as long as it is unseasoned. Feeding your dog a can of pumpkin pie filling might end up sending you back to the vet, as the spices and sugars could irritate your dog’s stomach and cause further complications.

Bone Broth
Bone broth is a very mild, liquid meal that sits easily in upset canine stomachs. It is also a nutritious and delicious way to add moisture and flavor to dry food and encourage dogs with reduced appetites to eat. To make a bone broth for dogs, fill a crock-pot with beef marrow bones or bones with plenty of joints, like turkey and chicken legs. Cover the bones with 2-3 inches of water, cover, and cook on low for 20-24 hours. ( pressure cooking speeds this process greatly ) - ( and for your canning folks - making a big batch and putting some up for later use for you or your dog as a nicety to have on the shelf )

Let the broth cool for 2-to-3 hours in the fridge to let the fat form a hardened layer at the top. Scoop it off and store the jelly-like broth in the refrigerator. If you want to use the broth to add moisture to dry food, microwave the broth just long enough for it to go from a semi-solid jelly to a liquid, but not long enough to get hot, as hot broths can burn your dog’s mouth. Freeze the broth in small containers like an ice cube tray for later use.

While bone broth is full of healthy bone marrow, cooked small bones themselves most dangerous. Make sure you remove all of the bones from your broth before serving. Save yourself a trip to the emergency room and strain the broth just to make sure no small bones escaped your notice. HOWEVER...   pressure cooking bones to the point the crush easily between your fingers makes them a safe and nutritious alternative

Baby Food
Veterinary emergency hospitals often use certain types of baby food to feed the dogs in their care. Baby food is very easy to swallow and digest and is a great way to give oral medications. Veterinarians recommend feeding Stage II meat-based baby foods like chicken, lamb, and turkey, as long as the baby food does not contain any garlic or onion powder.
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What Your Dog's Stools Can Tell You About Their Health

1/26/2023

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We've gotten strange looks from friends for commenting on what nice poop - seriously as breeders / owners we watch these things.  - yes the exciting times watching dogs 'dump'.

The causes for acute diarrhea in the absence of other signs are varied and include dietary indiscretion (for example: getting into the garbage), gastrointestinal bacteria including Campylobacter, and GI parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and protozoal infections. In most cases of acute, self-limiting diarrhea, a cause is never identified.

Many things can cause diarrhea or, less frequently, constipation. Some things, like eating too much grass, are not serious at all. Others can be a sign of a life-threatening problem, such as an indigestible object (like a rock) lodged in the stomach, or a disease like cancer.

If your dog seems otherwise normal, and he is currently on monthly parasite preventative medication, then symptomatic treatment at home is appropriate. Usually most diarrhea will run its course within two to four days, although in some cases, it can last longer. If there are any other signs of illness like vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, or pain, a veterinary trip is in order.

The consistency and color of diarrhea reveals a lot about the cause of the problem and what is happening in your dog. Take  note of the color, consistency, and anything else that might help when you describe the symptoms to your veterinarian. In most cases, diarrhea will resolve after a few days of home treatment, but it’s a good idea to give your vet a call if it continues for a long period or has any one of several signs that may point to a serious problem.

a few things to note
    Dietary indiscretion: Eating too much, eating garbage, or spoiled food. There’s actually a name for it in veterinary circles—“garbage toxicosis” or “garbage gut.”
    
    some dogs may have a food intolerance or allergies to some ingredients.   foods may have different bases such as rice, corn even one like bil-jac is more beet based. see my notes on grain free ( not all good )
 regional foods and different companies may have different base mixes.  I had one dog could not tolerate red dye.  a customer has a dog that will lose her hair with chicken. you will learn your dogs needs as they can vary just like people. most get along fine on about any decent food.  


Poisonous substances or plants
Swallowing an indigestible foreign body, like a toy, socks, sticks. one of our customers had to have surgery after shredding and eating a rope bone.  we had one swallow a fish hook at the lake since she liked to eat worms (no accounting for some dogs taste). that passed after a few days of feeding her a lot of bread to bulk things up and help it pass.  such fun hosing down her stools until we found the hook. it beat the alternative of surgery which could have been a real possibility.

Diarrhea that develops suddenly in an otherwise healthy dog is often due to scavenging behavior, Stress or emotional upset can upset a dog just like it an people. a sudden change in diet, or viral, Bacterial infections, such as salmonella or parasitic infections.

Change in diet: It may take a few days for a dog’s digestive system to adapt to new proteins. when changing your dogs diet mix the new food with the old in greater purportions over a week at least to have less impact on your dogs system.
Illnesses, such as kidney and liver disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer
Antibiotics and other medications can kill the beneficial bacteria in you or your dogs digestive tract.  consider adding a probiotic or live culture yogurt


More chronic diarrhea can be caused by dietary allergies or intolerances, stress, some types of parasites (e.g., Giardia, hookworms, roundworms and whipworms), bacterial infections, pancreatic disease, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, some types of cancer, and diseases outside of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., liver failure or heart disease). These type of health issues will need to be discussed with your veterinarian and can require prescription pet medication.

if your dog is very young, very old, has a preexisting health condition, call your veterinarian for advice on how to handle the diarrhea. These individuals can become severely debilitated even when suffering from relatively mild diarrhea. Also, call your veterinarian if your dog’s diarrhea is frequent and/or very watery - contains more than just a streak of blood - is dark and tarry or if your dog is vomiting profusely, lethargic, depressed, and/or is in pain. These can be signs of potentially serious health conditions.

Home Remedies
Make sure the dog has access to plenty of clean water to avoid dehydration. Encourage the dog to drink. If needed, offer dilute chicken, beef broth or Pedialyte in addition to the water.

Give the dog a small meal of boiled white meat chicken (no bones or skin) and white rice. This can be the dog's diet until the stool consistency returns to normal.

If the diarrhea continues for more than 3 dayss or your dog’s condition worsens at any time, call your vet
A great many cases are mild and may be treated without a trip to the office. They may respond to a regimen of very basic treatments such as.

Fasting
Withholding food for 12 to 24 hours, and providing water in small amounts frequently, can clear the cause of the upset and allow the gastrointestinal tract to settle. It’s usually the first line of attack for the runs. Before you decide on a fast, be sure that your dog is healthy enough to endure it. Puppies, and elderly dogs, for example, need nutrients. Also, a fast may not be appropriate for little dogs, who do not have the physical reserves of their larger cousins.

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so make sure to give your dog access to water at all times. Many people also offer unflavored Pedialyte to maintain electrolyte balance. diluted chicken broth may be more palatable - watch of for the salted kind if buying pre -made broth.

After a fast, food is usually introduced slowly and many people start with binders, which can normalize stool consistency. Some tried-and-true methods include:
  •  Rice water: Boil high-quality rice in a lot of water, remove the grains, and offer the dog the creamy white soup that’s left. A splash of broth or a bit baby food will make it more palatable.
  • White rice  - cooked a tad dry to help absorb moisture in your dogs or yours...  digestive tract.  a little lean cooked hamburger or chicken without the skin can make it more enticing.
  • Canned pumpkin (plain, not prepared pie filling) is effective for both diarrhea and constipation.    Probiotics, live bacteria that aid digestion (these are also found in yogurt - read the label for live culture)  don't give a lot as most dogs are lactose intolerant past early puppyhood.
  • Boiled potatoes, without skin
  • Plain protein sources such as egg (prepared with no butter or oil) or chicken (without skin)
  • Herbs, such as fennel, ginger or papaya have gut-soothing properties
  • Specially-formulated dog foods: Some manufacturers offer foods that can sooth stomach problems.
  • You may need to obtain these from your vet.

 Over-the-counter medications for humans may also be effective for doggie diarrhea, but should be given with caution and you should talk to your vet before using them. kaopectate is a good one. an old remedy is unflavored 'jello' such as knox gelatin to drink before it 'sets up'.

Avoid using human remedies such as loperamide, also called Immodium. This medication has an opioid in it, and it is easy to overdose a dog unintentionally.

If your dog continues to do well other than diarrhea, three to four days of at-home treatment is appropriate.
​
Methods that work for one dog may not help another, so you might need to do a little experimentation to find the right formula. It might also be helpful to write down what works and what doesn’t so you’ll know what to do the next time you find yourself mopping up a mess.

Once you find a recovery diet that agree with your dog, and doesn’t cause a relapse, you can slowly increase the portions over a period of days, and then start to add small quantities of your dog’s regular food, until things are back to normal.
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Glucosamine & Turmeric for your older dog and you

1/26/2023

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Like people, many dogs suffer from arthritis, especially as they age. This painful condition occurs when cartilage, the cushioning between the bones, begins to thin and wear away and the ends of the bones start to rub against each other. It may be caused by trauma, disease, or wear and tear that comes with use over years.
​

While there is no cure for arthritis, some treatments can lessen pain and improve mobility
No one knows exactly what the mechanism of action is, but the supplement, an amino sugar, appears to improve the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, one of the building blocks of cartilage. This is the tough connective tissue that cushions bones at the joints. The theory is that the supplement somehow stimulates chondrocytes or DNA activity that protects against joint degradation.

Cartilage consists of several different cells, one of which is chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are responsible for synthesizing new cartilage. Through normal wear, cartilage is constantly being broken down and replaced. When a dog has hip dysplasia or ages, the chondrocytes do not have the building blocks available to them to build enough new cartilage to keep up with the breakdown of the old cartilage. Glucosamine provides the building blocks to synthesize new cartilage. Glucosamine is the building block necessary for the production of the substances called glycosaminoglycans. The glycosaminoglycans are combined with hyaluronic acid to make the substance proteoglycans. The proteoglycans and collagen are the main structures of cartilage.

Chondroitin blocks destructive enzymes that break down cartilage in the joint.

Chondroitin also is one of the products necessary for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans. But it probably plays a more important role by combating and neutralizing destructive enzymes in the joint. There is always a low level of destructive enzymes found in the joint, but when injury or abnormal wear occurs, the destructive enzymes and agents increase accelerating cartilage destruction. When chondroitin is added to the diet it helps to reduce the level of these destructive enzymes.Glucosamine supplements are said to alleviate the symptoms of joint damage by boosting the repair of damaged cartilage, the moist, spongy material that forms a cushion between joints. Cartilage cells are constantly turning over, and when cartilage is damaged, the joint becomes inflamed and releases enzymes that cause more damage. This starts a cycle of joint degeneration.

The supplement has been used in veterinary practices in Europe and the U.S. for about 20 years.

Pharmaceutical grade glucosamine and chondroitin are used for humans and are found in some veterinary products. It is perfectly safe to use human glucosamine in your pet, however, products made for animals contain ascorbic acid  (vitamin c) to help in the uptake, in canines. ( we just add a vitamin c tablet to the daily pill(s) and 'cookie'  for being good and 'taking your pill' ) {I give an all in one glucosamine chondroitin msm turmeric  and add the 'c' as a separate pill  for our older 'kids' and us older featherless bipeds}

Turmeric in conjunction with glucosamine can help in reducing joint pain effectively.  Whether you use the capsule form or powder in your dogs food adding 1/8 tsp. fresh pepper to one teaspoon of turmeric has a synergistic effect (makes the turmeric more effective).  check on line for dosages ( disclaimer being I am not a practicing veterinarian)

A short simple site with information - of course they want you to buy their turmeric... nuff said.    https://yourolddog.com/benefits-turmeric-dogs/

In 2007, scientists at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, conducted a similar review of 16 clinical trials of treatments for osteoarthritis in dogs. There were 16 studies that looked at drugs, as well as supplements. They reported their results in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and found that preparations containing glucosamine provided a "moderate level" of comfort and was on a par with some prescription drugs.

since it is a sugar-based substance, some veterinarians are wary about its use in dogs with diabetes.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are also included in dog foods formulated for senior and performance dogs, many of whom are at risk for joint disease and injury.
​

It may take weeks to see improvement, and veterinarians recommend evaluating the effects of the treatment after your dog has been taking it for about three months.
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All About Dog Toothpaste

1/26/2023

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Dog Toothpaste comes in several canine-friendly flavors, like peanut butter and chicken, and both child-sized toothbrushes with soft bristles or finger brushes are appropriate to use when cleaning your dog’s teeth at home. Human toothpaste, however, contains ingredients like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and should be avoided.

Your veterinarian’s insistence that your canine companion needs a dental cleaning addresses far more than the issue of a dog’s stinky breath. Poor dental hygiene can result in a host of medical problems. Some of the more common issues are gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth loss, infection, and difficulty eating.

Plaque builds up on canine teeth, just like it does on human teeth. Over time, a buildup of plaque can lead to inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis. Dogs with gingivitis may have red, inflamed gums that bleed easily, and you may also notice bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis.

Periodontitis can cause destruction to the connective tissues surrounding the tooth and can also damage the bone. Most concerning, however, is the detrimental effects periodontitis can have on your dog’s heart, kidneys, and liver.
​

Dogs can also benefit from dental cleanings at the vet’s office. These in-depth procedures take place under anesthesia and remove plaque below the gum line, where toothbrushes can’t reach. Dental cleanings are especially important for dog breeds with genetic predispositions for dental disease, like many small breeds, or dogs fed wet food.
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Dog Colds Are Not Contagious To Humans

1/26/2023

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Zoonotic diseases can be spread between animals and people. You can’t catch a cold from your dog, any more than your dog can pick up a human strain of a cold virus from you. However, dog colds and influenza are highly contagious between dogs, which means we have to be careful not to help transmit the germs.

Colds spread through saliva and aerosol droplets. If you’ve been in contact with a sick dog, you could bring those germs home to your own pups on your hands or clothing. Letting your dog drink out of an infected dog’s water bowl or play with infected toys also increases the risk of contagion. While colds are rarely life-threatening, they can pose risks for very young and very old dogs as they can in humans, as well as canines with suppressed immune systems.
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Signs Of Cancer in Dogs

1/26/2023

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The National Cancer Institute’s Center for Cancer Research reports around six million dogs in the U.S. are diagnosed with spontaneous cancer every year. While better understanding of canine nutrition and advanced veterinary technology is prolonging the average dog’s lifespan, the risk of developing cancer increases as dogs age. Recent reports indicate about half of dogs over 10 years old are diagnosed with some type of cancer.1 We must take it upon ourselves as concerned pet parents to know the warning signs of canine cancer.
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Dogs get cancer at around the same rate humans do, but the disease tends to progress faster for our canine friends. The key to fighting it has always been early detection. Without the ability to voice their feelings, dogs often go undiagnosed. Sometimes their disease shows no symptoms until it’s too late for medical intervention to help. In many cases, however, an observant owner can save their dog’s life.

Regardless of your dog’s age, breed, or perceived health, it’s important to know about these common signs of cancer.

#1 – Unidentifiable Lumps
One of the easiest cancer symptoms to recognize is the presence of a tumor growing beneath the skin. Sometimes lumps are benign cysts, but an unusual growth always warrants a trip to the veterinarian. The lump needs to be removed and tested for the presence of cancer.

Just as there are several different kinds of cancer, there are several kinds of cancerous tumors. Mast cell tumors grow quickly and tend to itch and look inflamed. Snub-nosed dog breeds like Boxers and French Bulldogs develop this type of tumor more than other breeds. Other types of tumors include histiocytoma tumors that are typically small and hairless, and tumors related to lymphoma are characterized by lymph node swelling under the jaw and behind the knees.

Veterinarians encourage dog owners to inspect their pets’ skin at least once a month. Tumors can be large, but a small lump the size of a breath mint can be equally as dangerous.

#2 – Sudden Weight Loss
As long as the dog isn’t on a strict diet, their weight should remain relatively steady. Noticing weight loss is easiest in small dogs that are picked up often and dogs with short hair. A good way to quickly judge a dog’s weight is to look at them from above to see if their waistline looks more defined than it used to be. You can also palpate their sides regularly to feel how close their ribs are to their skin.

It’s harder to judge weight loss in big dogs with lots of fur. A 70-pound rough Collie with progressing cancer could be losing weight, but their fur and the lack of a convenient scale could mean the symptom goes unnoticed. For these dogs, it’s important to either bring them to the vet regularly for check ups or devise a method of checking their weight at home.

#3 – Lack of Appetite
Sometimes dogs push away their dinner when they have an upset stomach, and they’re usually back to eating within a day. Dogs that don’t act hungry for more than two days at a time, however, could be dealing with something more serious.

A tumor pressing against the intestines is a common reason why dogs stop eating. Food going through a cramped intestine is uncomfortable, and the dog quickly decides not eating is the way to make themselves feel better.5 If it’s cancer, regaining appetite is essential for recovery. Cancer will drain the body’s energy and make it harder for the immune system to fight back. Nutrients derived from food will be essential to keep up the dog’s strength.

#4 – Stiffness or Lameness
It’s normal for senior dogs to slow down, and trouble standing up, walking, or climbing stairs could be due to osteoarthritis. There’s also a chance painful movements are caused by bone cancer called osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma is a tumor that develops on the bone. It can affect any bone in the body but is most often found near the shoulders and knees. In the beginning stages, the tumor may not be noticeable by looking at the dog. It will, however, affect how they move. Canine Cancer explains,

“Osteosarcoma develops deep within the bone and becomes progressively more painful as it grows outward and the bone is destroyed from the inside out. Lameness may occur suddenly or start intermittently and progress over several weeks. Obvious swelling becomes evident as the tumor grows and normal bone is replaced by tumorous bone.”

#5 – Lethargy
It’s normal for a dog to spend a few hours a day snoozing. Most dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day.3 That number will ultimately depend on your dog’s
 age, breed, and personality, but too much sleep or a sudden decrease in activity could be a sign of cancer.

The main difference between normal exhaustion and lethargy has to do with the dog’s enthusiasm level. A dog that’s simply tired will drag themselves off the couch with a wagging tail for the chance at food or to play their favorite game. A lethargic dog, however, will lose all interest in their favorite things. Their reactions to things that would normally excite them are either delayed, strained, or they don’t react at all.

#6 – Open Sores That Don’t Heal
A sore on the dog’s skin that lasts for months without healing needs to be seen by a veterinarian. The wound can be crusty and bleed randomly when irritated. Antibiotics and topical creams won’t help it go away, and it can be located in any area of the dog’s body including toes, scrotum, and nose.

Scottish Terriers, Boxers, Poodles, Dalmatians, Beagles, and Whippets are considered high risk for this type of cancer, and dogs with white fur and light-colored skin are also more at risk.8

“A squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the squamous epithelium. It may appear to be a white skin mass, or a raised bump on the skin. Often the raised mass will necrotize in the center and ulcerate, with occasional bleeding.”

#7 – Changes in Bathroom Habits
Going to the bathroom more than normal, less than normal, and not at all are all signs of trouble. In most cases, urination problems relate to conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Cancer in the rectum, anus, colon, and intestines often causes constipation, diarrhea, and other changes in the dog’s stool. It’s possible for a dog to be defecating normally but stop urinating, and vice versa.5

If you notice your dog seems strained or in pain while doing their business, there could be a tumor causing problems somewhere in the digestive tract. 
It’s also important to inspect a dog’s feces on a regular basis. Stool that is black, tarry, or has blood in it could be a symptom of cancer.

#8 – Breathing Difficulties
There are several different types of cancer that affect the respiratory system. Lung cancer most often develops in dogs 10 years and older, but all dogs are susceptible to having malignant tumors in their lungs and other parts of the respiratory tract. Symptoms usually present as labored breathing and shortness of breath.7

The dog might also develop a persistent cough, and their normal breathing can sound wheezy. You might notice your usually athletic dog gets winded after only a few minutes of jogging. Dogs that exhibit abnormal panting might also have cancer affecting their respiratory system. PetMD advises,

“Owners should get a feel for what is normal for their dogs before any health problems develop. How does your dog breathe when he is at rest? While going for a walk? After vigorous play? With this knowledge in hand, you will be able to pick up subtle changes in your dog’s respiratory rate and effort before a crisis develops.”


#9 – Unusual Smell
Gas and bad breath are usually harmless, but exceedingly bad smells coming from the dog’s mouth or anus could mean something more. Tumors in the anus, mouth, or throat open a window for bacterial growth and can produce smells. Some dog owners assume their pets are especially gassy, but there’s the possibility the bad smells originate from a tumor in the rectum.

Oral cancer is difficult to treat and progresses quickly. Tumors are most often found on the roof of the mouth and around the upper teeth.4 You might also notice your dog eating their food without chewing or only chewing on one side of their mouth to avoid a tender area.

#10- Behavioral Changes
A dog’s behavior is a clear indication of how they’re feeling. If your gentle, happy dog is suddenly acting aggressively, it could be because they’re in pain. When dogs don’t feel well, they tend to withdraw. Being jostled and touched in sore areas can cause them more pain, and they lash out to keep people away.

A dog that used to love being picked up or having their stomach rubbed might start avoiding human contact. It’s easy to take their behavior personally, but it’s their way of telling you something isn’t right. Internal tumors can go unnoticed for months, and the longer they’re left to grow, the more damage they cause. A slight change in a dog’s behavior is often the only external indication that cancer is wreaking havoc on the dog’s health.

Sources
1. AVMA
2. Canine Cancer
3. The National Sleep Foundation
4. My Pet’s Dentist: Oral Tumors in Cats and Dogs
5. Pet Health Network: 10 Signs of Cancer in Dogs
6. PetMD: 8 Types of Tumors and How to Treat Them
7. PetMD: Breathing Difficulties in Dogs
8. PetMD: Skin Cancer in Dogs
9. The National Cancer Institute’s Center for Cancer Research
Written by Amber King
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A Little History of GOlden Retrievers

1/26/2023

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Golden Retrievers are very popular dogs that can trace their lineage back to nineteenth century Scotland. They were bred as hunting dogs, used to locate and retrieve game from land and water. Initial efforts to breed the Golden Retriever were conducted by Sir Dudley Majoribanks, Lord of Tweedmouth, who spent twenty years secretly developing the breed. He began with a yellow dog from Brighton and an English retriever with a liver-colored curly coat called a Tweedwater Spaniel, now extinct.

​He later introduced Labrador Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Red Setters and Bloodhounds into the mix. The breed was accepted by the Kennel Club of England in 1903 as the “Golden Flat Coat” and they were first shown in an English dog show in 1908. Golden Retrievers were introduced to the United States in the late 1890’s and the name Golden Retriever was given to them in 1920. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1925.
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Ten Peeves That Dogs Have About Humans

1/26/2023

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'1' Blaming your farts on me..... not funny... not funny at all !!! 

'2' Yelling at me for barking.  I'M A FRIGGIN' DOG!!! 

'3' Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway? 

'4' Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose. Stop it! 

'5' Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons.  Now you know why we chew your stuff up when you're not home! 

'6' The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw.  You fooled a dog!  Whoooo Hoooooooo, what a proud moment for the top of the food chain. 

'7' Taking me to the vet for 'the big snip', then acting surprised when I freak out every time we go back! 

'8' Getting upset when I sniff the crotches of your guests.  Sorry, but I haven't quite mastered that handshake thing yet. 

'9' Dog sweaters.  Hello???  Haven't you noticed the fur? 

'10' How you act disgusted when I lick myself.  Look, we both know the truth.. You're just jealous. 

Now lay off me on some of these things.  We both know who's boss here!  You don't see me picking up your poop do you?
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