Is a GPS Dog Microchip a Good Idea For Your Dog?

When you start to hear about microchips and GPS for dogs, naturally, you want to learn more. There is no GPS dog microchip, they are two separate things. A microchip is just an identification tag. The GPS locator is often constructed in the animals collar. The GPS is designed to tell you where your dog is. This suddenly sounds much more exciting and useful than a microchip! It is normal to want to know more. Are the GPS collars safe? Are they expensive? Will the dog mind wearing it? Is it hard to use? Will the expensive collar make your dog more prone to mishap?

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After all, this is a miraculous invention. Dogs are not stationery objects. They often try to escape. Most often, by the time you have realized your pet is missing, Spot has already traveled far. Dogs will poke their nose through any hole and attempt to make it larger so that they can wiggle their way through. They hear things and smell things that they simply must discover. They love to leap to new adventures.

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An owner of an expensive puppy would be even more concerned about their dogie getting out. Honesty often disappears when a finder of a lost puppy sees that little tail wagging. I saw a pet thief with my own eyes. She was paying for a pile of dog toys and supplies. She was so happy. The items were for the two runaway dogs she recently found. I asked her if she had tried to locate the owner and she only admitted making very feeble attempts. I did not know what to do and the pet store owner heard everything and she herself did not want to interfere.

The idea of finding your dogs before someone else does is alluring. So is the thought of getting them out of harms way. They do not understand how traffic works. There are big, major streets out there with fast traffic. In order to discover if the GPS is a good idea for your dog, you should learn more about what they can do. You should also compare different models and definitely read reviews. Many of the collars have what is called a programmable safety zone. This is the set parameter that you pet normally occupies. You can set several zones so that when you take your pet to the park, for instance, you will not need to reprogram. Some of the collars are designed to allow your pet 15 minutes to return after leaving a designated zone. This feature has it pros and cons. Many times, the dog does return and you will not be bothered with a false alarm. The bad part is, the dog can get a 15 minute head start.

Keep in mind that some GPS packages only work with a monthly service commitment. Some collars will not even work on little dogs. A few of the brands have weight requirements. This is why you need to check and compare. But keep searching. When it comes to the well-being of your pet, you do not want to take chances. Explore the advantages of a GPS locator today.

Is a GPS Dog Microchip a Good Idea For Your Dog?

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Canine Pregnancy Guide

In many ways canine pregnancy is not that different from human pregnancy, although it is somewhat shorter, averaging sixty-three days. A dog's diet, as well as their consumption of medicine needs to be monitored during pregnancy, just like a woman's should be, and you may notice changes in your dog's emotions and social behavior. She can even experience morning sickness!

Most dogs will gain 15-25% of their original body weight during pregnancy, although this does depend on the number of puppies they are carrying and some do not put on noticeable weight until the last week before whelping.

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Nutritional intake needs to increase during canine pregnancy and lactation; your dog may even double the amount she eats. During lactation she will need a high protein puppy food, and you may want to gradually introduce this during the last two weeks of her pregnancy, or even earlier. If you are concerned about providing the right pregnancy diet to meet your particular dog's needs you should consult your veterinarian.

You should try to avoid nutritional supplements during canine pregnancy, even though these may seem like a good idea. Your dog will naturally produce everything her puppies need to thrive during lactation, and supplements may interfere with this process. This is particularly applicable to calcium supplements. If you use a good quality, high protein dog food, supplements will not be necessary.

A lot of canine medication is safe to use during pregnancy. If you give your dog regular preventative medication for heartworm you should continue this throughout pregnancy and lactation. Some medicines to get rid of other types of parasite, such as hookworms or roundworms, can be used but you should consult your veterinarian before administering these. It is important that your dog does get treatment for these conditions as otherwise she can pass them on to her unborn puppies.

Vaccinations should not be given during canine pregnancy. However, if possible, it is a great idea to have your dog vaccinated just before becoming pregnant as this will ensure she has a high level of antibodies to pass onto her puppies during lactation.

About halfway through her pregnancy you should take your dog to the veterinarian for a wellness check and to confirm the pregnancy. The veterinarian will be able to do this by examining the stomach, but a blood test can be done to provide a conclusive result.

You may want to have a radiograph done three weeks prior to the deliver to count the puppies. Knowing how many puppies to expect will help you to prepare for the delivery. Remember that your dog can become pregnant by more than one male during any one heat stage so you may be surprised at the number of puppies she is going to produce.

During the last three weeks of your dog's pregnancy you may want to isolate her completely from contact with other dogs. This will ensure she does not pick up the herpes virus. While this is usually harmless in adult dogs, it can trigger a miscarriage in your pregnant dog.

You may find she wants to stay close to you during this time anyway. She may dislike being left alone and will probably become more affectionate, if a little irritable. As the delivery date approaches she will start to look for a safe place to give birth, and you should give some thought to where this will be.

As with human pregnancy, it is important to remember that canine pregnancy is a natural process, and your dog has been blessed with the natural ability to carry it through. With a little extra attention to nutrition, and some protection from common diseases, this should be a stress free time for you and your dog.

Canine Pregnancy Guide

If you'd like more information on nutritional deficiency in pregnant and lactating dogs [http://www.thedogsbone.com/articles/77/1/Pregnant-And-Lactating-Dogs/Pregnant-And-Lactating-Dogs---Signs-Of-Nutritional-Deficiency.html], click here. Rebecca writes on dog health and other four legged issues.

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Home Insurance And Your Rottweiler Dog

Your home insurance rates and overall costs could be affected by the type of dog you own. A Rottweiler is one of those dogs. Whether you already own a dog, or are looking to get one, here are some things to consider.

Rottweilers may get a bad rap -- especially the ones that make headlines because their owners did not train them properly. Of course, most Rottweiler owners do train their dogs properly and know how beautiful and sweet these animals can be.

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The reality is, however, that you could be liable for thousands of dollars in lawsuits and high insurance premiums if your dog bites someone. Dog bites cost property and casualty insurance industry about 7.2 million in 2005, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Because of this, home insurance companies take into consideration the type of dog you own when they make decisions on your rate -- or even if they want to provide coverage.

Other breeds of dogs that insurance companies may be concerned about are Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Huskies, Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, Chows, Great Danes and Saint Bernards.

If you have home insurance and want to bring a new dog home, call your insurance agent or company and find out if they have any concerns.

If you're shopping for home insurance and you already have a dog, make sure to mention that fact to the agent or if it asks in an online home insurance quote form. Make sure to get at least three or more quotes from different home insurance companies for comparison, as rates and underwriting may vary quite a bit between each company.

Also, the Insurance Information Institute has some suggestions about helping reduce the chance that your dog might bite, including: spaying or neutering; training and socializing your dog; not playing aggressive games such as "tug-of-war"; and making sure you always maintain control of your dog.

Home Insurance And Your Rottweiler Dog

Get several free comparison home insurance quotes, and learn more about home insurance and dogs at LowerYourInsurance.com Justin Scott is a freelance writer.

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Getting Your Dog Fixed: It's The Right Thing To Do

Your veterinarian should initiate a discussion about spaying or neutering at the time of your first appointment, months in advance of the actual surgery. If he or she doesn't, then inquire. When the puppy is very young is a good time to start thinking about whether you want to spay or neuter your pet for preventative health care, birth control and to avoid some potentially undesirable behavior.

Many breeders offer pet quality puppies for sale with the stipulation that the dogs be neutered or spayed when they reach the appropriate age. This is the breeder's way of insuring breed improvement, by only allowing high-quality dogs to reproduce. You, of course, think your puppy is absolutely perfect. And it is - for you, and as a pet, but perhaps not as a model for future members of its breed.

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Possibly the best reason to have your female spayed while she is young (most veterinarians recommend six months of age) is for its health benefit. Mammary gland cancer is much more common, in an unspayed (intact) female. If your puppy is spayed before her first heat (at six months, for example), her risk of developing breast tumors is substantially reduced. The odds are still in her favor, though diminished, if she is spayed after her first heat. But if you wait until she reaches maturity, say after her second or third heat, the operation will not reduce her risk of breast cancer. This is why it is important to have her spayed early in life.

Other reasons? The surgery itself, complete removal of the uterus and both ovaries, is ordinarily quicker and less hemorrhagic in immature females, so the risk of complications is reduced. Owners are spared the stress of having to confine the female who, when she comes into season, sends out enticing messages to male dogs in the vicinity. Furthermore, because the reproductive organs are gone, spaying eliminates the possibility of unwanted pregnancy as well as the regular heat period when dogs leave blood-tinged stains on carpets and furniture. Lastly, the potential infections, cancers and other problems involving the uterus and/or ovaries are eliminated along with these organs. Diseases of the male reproductive organs related to the presence of male hormones are not unknown, either. Although neutering represents an advantage as far as prevention is concerned, this is not usually the primary reason owners have their dogs castrated.

Most people want their dog to be neutered because they think it helps make him a better pet. This may be true, for the following reasons: Intact male dogs can act aggressively toward other dogs and people because they are trying to protect and control their territory. In the male mind, "territory" may be your property, its toys, females in heat, a bowl of food and so on. This type of behavior is unacceptable to most people and may be strongly influenced by the dog's male hormones. Neutering a dog with aggressive tendencies at an early age may reduce these problems. Castration is also recommended for aggressive older dogs, although its chance for success is less certain.

A neutered dog has less temptation to roam, too, as well as fight. He probably won't embarrass you at important dinner parties by seeking romance with your company's legs. And just as important, he won't contribute to the already burgeoning population of homeless puppies, something we should all be ashamed of.

Getting Your Dog Fixed: It's The Right Thing To Do

John Edwards is a long time dog lover. Visit his website to learn treating dog dandruff [http://www.dogcaretraining.com/index.php/136/how-to-treat-your-dogs-dandruff-7-tips] and many more tips at: http://www.dogcaretraining.com

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Special Dog Food For Bladder Stones Will Quickly Get Your Dog Back on the Road to Health

Most pet owners aren't aware that dog food for bladder stones can be quite effective as long as you know how to select the best possible kibble. In this article, you'll learn what to look for and how following three simple steps (one of which is a healthy diet) can help prevent bladder crystals and infections and boost your dog's immunity as part of the process.

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The reason that special dog food for dogs with bladder stones is important is that the ingredients in most commercial brands can alter the pH of the bladder, encouraging the formation of bladder crystals and urinary tract infections. What most pet owners do not realize is that the kibble that they buy in grocery stores is nothing more than junk food for dogs. It does not provide good nutrition and can set the stage for infection, disease and even cancer.

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This junk food kibble contains pesticides, additives and other chemicals as well as fillers that provide no nutrients and byproducts instead of the meat that dogs need. When considering what to feed your pet, remember that food is our medicine and our first line of defense against disease. The same holds true for our pets, which is why you should feed your dog food for bladder stones that is organic and has been specifically formulated with lean meat and nutrients.

Of course this food is more expensive, but it is well worth the cost. First of all, your dog will eat less because the nutrient-dense food will make him feel full faster and more satisfied. Second of all, your vet bills will be lower because your dog will not have diseases and infections caused by poor nutrition. Third, the biggest benefit of all is that your dog will live a longer and happier life.

Read the list of ingredients when selecting organic kibble. You should see real meat, healthy oils, whole grains and vegetables listed. There should be no chemicals or long words that you cannot pronounce.

Although special dog food is important, it is also essential to give your dog a supplement that has been formulated to dissolve bladder crystals. While finding the right supplement may take a little bit of research, it is worth it because these supplements will accelerate the effects of good food and eliminate bladder crystals while healing the bladder and soothing inflamed and painful tissues. Look for a supplement that contains proven herbs like Cantharis and Uva Ursi. This is the best combination of herbs that when given along with special dog food for bladder stones will help your dog to recover much more quickly without any of the side effects caused by prescription drugs. For dogs that are prone to urinary problems, these supplements are gentle enough to use every day. They also prevent urinary tract infections.

In addition to providing special dog food for dogs with bladder stones and a good supplement, be sure to give your dog lots of fresh, filtered water. Water keeps your dog hydrated and flushes toxins from the bladder and kidneys. Also make sure your dog gets daily exercise and lots of love and attention from the person he loves most: you!

Special Dog Food For Bladder Stones Will Quickly Get Your Dog Back on the Road to Health

Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. Find out more about safe, effective ways to maintain your pet's urinary tract health at http://www.pet-ut-health.com.

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Does Your Dog Have a Dog Food Allergy?

It is estimated that about ten percent of all allergies seen in dogs and cats are caused by food. After flea bite allergies, food allergies are the third most common cause. People seem to think that by introducing a lamb and rice diet, they are preventing or treating a dog food allergy. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

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Food allergies can affect animals of both genders male and female, whether they have been neutered or spayed or are intact makes no difference. There is no specific age for an allergy to appear. They can show as early as five months and as late as twelve years of age. Generally, the vast majority of these symptoms occur between two and six years of age.

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There is a difference between food intolerance and food allergy. The latter is a true allergy with symptoms of skin problems and constant itching both associated with canine and feline allergies. The symptoms for food allergy is different and this can result in the animal vomiting or having diarrhea. This, to the owner, may not appear to be a typical allergic reaction. Choosing a diet for your pet that is free from offending agents can eliminate both food intolerance and food allergy.

Through various studies, it has been acknowledged that some ingredients are more likely to cause a dog food allergy than others. The most common offenders for dogs are dairy products, beef, wheat, eggs, chicken, soy and corn. These are the common ingredients in dog foods and they are the most common offenders for allergies. Many pet foods for years have had ingredients of chicken, beef, wheat and corn. It was because of these allergies that several companies decided to produce a lamb and rice diet.

This diet of lamb and rice was nothing to be perceived as special apart from the two ingredients had never normally been present in pet foods. It is possible because the animals had never eaten rice and lamb before that it is not sure if they are allergic to this combination of food. If lamb and rice are to be the main ingredients in pet food, it may become apparent that the combination of these two will be responsible for food allergy. There are many other ingredients other than lamb and rice; this alone may be hard to detect if this is the cause of food allergy.

It can sometimes be hard to detect if your dog has a dog food allergy as symptoms can be similar to most other allergies seen in dogs. The most common sign is itchy skin; this may include recurring ear infections, excessive scratching, hair loss, hot spots and skin infections. These can be treated using antibiotics but can often reoccur after the treatment has finished. Dogs with food allergies sometimes have increased bowel movements, studies have showed a non-allergic dog has 1.5 bowel movement a day as opposed to a dog with food allergy possibly going three or more times a day.

Does Your Dog Have a Dog Food Allergy?

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Why Spay & Neuter Your Pets

All pet animals should be altered to prevent reproduction.  

Terminology: We commonly call an ovariohysterectomy (spay) and a castration (neuter)  

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PROCEDURE: During a spay, an abdominal incision is made allowing access to the ovaries and uterus which are both removed. Recovery time is about 2 weeks during which time the dog should be kept quiet and prevented from running or jumping.  

During a neuter the testicles are exteriorized though the skin and just above the scrotal sac. The testicles are then ligated over the spermatic cord and removed from the body. Again, recovery time is about 2 weeks for actual healing, but the dogs usually act normal within a few days.  

WHY?: Believe it or not I still will occasionally have clients tell me that they don't intend to alter their pet's reproductive status because they think it is good for the children to witness the birth. The reasons are endless, but the end result remains the same - thousands of unwanted animals left to be put to sleep in shelters. Owners typically believe that they will find good homes for all the pups so this reasoning doesn't apply to them. However, many puppies end up in shelters shortly after that new owner takes them home.

Reasons such as behavior problems (AKA lack of training), and housing or apartment limitations are commonly given to shelters when the pups are abandoned. So, the most important reason for altering pet dogs is to decrease the many unnecessary pet deaths taking place in shelters across the United States on a daily basis.

Still, there are many other reasons to alter your pet and many of these reasons are directly related to the current or future health of your pet.  

For Females: Just a few of the concerns...1) Mammary Cancer: It has been shown that female dogs spayed prior to their first heat will have almost no incidence of mammary (breast) cancer later in life. This is because by spaying your dog you are eliminating the estrogen hormonal surge that occurs with each heat cycle. Studies have also shown that dogs spayed after their 3rd heat cycle are at a greater then 90% or better risk of developing this cancer. Therefore, by spaying your pet early you will be able to prevent this type of cancer.  

2) Pyometra: Intact female dogs are at risk of developing a potentially life threatening uterus infection called pyometra. If not caught this infection can make the dog extremely ill and can result in death.  

3) Dystocia: Pregnancy will commonly result in problems during parturition or the act of giving birth. Any type of dog can develop dystocia (stuck puppy). Dystocia often requires the mother to undergo a lengthy and expensive surgical procedure to remove the puppies called a caesarian section.  

4) Prevention of the estrus cycle. Intact females will cycle about every 6 months and this will result in vaginal bleeding for 2-3 weeks and unwanted attention from the boys.    

For Males: just a few...1) Trauma: In my mind the most important reason of all! Intact male dogs are the number one trauma victim. They not only end up in dog fights, but they nose their way into trouble by escaping the house or jumping fences in the hunt for a girl. Unfortunately, many of these wanders end up hit by a car or impounded into a shelter.  

2) Behavior: Intact male dogs are more likely to be aggressive to others including both dogs and people. Additionally, they are more likely to exhibit such behavior as urine marking.  

3) Prostatic Disease including: Abscesses, Infection, Cysts - Occur only in intact males.  

4) Testicular cancer is eliminated.

Please, if your dog is to be a pet there is NO reason NOT to neuter him or spay her.   For a complete pictorial of a spay and neuter shown step-by-step see my gallery or click link below for photos and anatomy.

Why Spay & Neuter Your Pets

Jill M. Patt, DVM

http://www.littlecrittersvet.com - Pet Care Information & Photo Gallery

Visit littlecrittersvet for extensive information on small & exotic pet care with > 1000 photos of animals from informative to just darn cute.

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