Common Collie Health Problems

As with any breed of dog there is always the risk of health problems. With the Collie there are different health concerns, such as Collie nose, CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), CEA (Collie eye abnormalities), Epilepsy, Bloat and Kennel Cough.

Collie nose is a condition that causes lesions to the nose, lips and eyelids. This condition is caused by a lack of skin pigment and is aggravated by sunlight. Treatment can include applications of sunscreen, limited exposure to direct sunlight and permanent tattooing of the skin to make the pigment darker.

Dog

Due to the Collie being a large breed of dog they have a higher risk for certain health problems, one of which is Canine Hip Dysplasia, where there is an abnormal formation of the hip joint. This will commonly develop after eight months of age when the Collie reaches skeletal maturity.

Possible causes could be genetics, lack of activity, poor diet or obesity. Dogs that are given little exercise and fed a low protein dog food have both a lack of activity and a poor diet and will have a higher chance of developing Canine Hip Dysplasia then that of an active dog who is fed a healthy diet. Canine Hip Dysplasia can either have a gradual or sudden onset and can sometimes cause severe pain. This can be diagnosed with an x-ray of the hips.

Untreated, it can lead to crippling lameness and arthritis, which can both be very painful. A preventive treatment for CHD includes keeping your dog active, on a healthy diet and weight management. Treatments can include medication or surgical intervention.

CEA (Collie eye abnormalities) is an inherited disease caused by a genetic defect, and is where the eyes do not develop normally. It involves the cornea, sclera and retina. Collie eye abnormality can have mild effects or total blindness; unfortunately there is no treatment for this disease. There are tests that can be done on the parents to assess the risks of the offspring developing this condition before breeding the animal.

Collie health problems can also include epilepsy, which is a neurological condition that causes the development of seizures. Epilepsy can be either a congenital (inherited) or acquired disease. The seizures can be controlled with medication.

Bloat can be a serious condition which involves gastric dilation, where the stomach fills with air and puts pressure on the other organs. When this happens the stomach can twist and pinch off the blood supply to the stomach. When this happens the health of the animal will deteriorate rapidly. This condition requires immediate assistance of a veterinarian and is very painful to the animal, not to mention costly.

Kennel Cough is a dry cough accompanied by thick nasal drainage, fever and lethargy. This can be caused by one of many factors, including overcrowded kennels and a stressful environment. Luckily, this condition can easily be treated with a course of antibiotics.

As you can see there are many health concerns for the Collie, as there are with any animal. Keeping Collie health problems from affecting your Collie can be as simple as following a good exercise and diet plan. Keep kennels clean and spacious, and pay attention to your Collie so that you will be quick to recognize unusual behavior. These simple steps can help to assure that you and your Collie will have many wonderful years together.

Common Collie Health Problems

Looking for information on Collie health problems? Be sure to visit my site to learn more about issues related to Collies, including Collie grooming.

Dog

FAQ About Dog Health

One of the most popular questions asked by dog owners is how often should they take their dog to the vet? Typically a dog should have a yearly check up and an update on all his or her vaccinations. This is different for puppies. Puppies require more vaccinations and booster shots so they should definitely go more than once a year, but as they grow and get older you can reduce it down to one time a year. Dogs age more quickly than humans, so as a dog gets up in age you will probably need to take him to the doctor two or three times a year at that particular point in your dog's life.

Another frequently asked question deals with the issue of neutering your pup. The simple and short answer to this question is that if you plan on using your dog to breed then you obviously should avoid that procedure. However, if you are not planning to use your dog for breeding purposes it may be a good idea to have him neutered. There are quite a few health benefits involved in having your dog neutered, such as less aggressive behavior. This procedure also greatly reduces your dog's chance of having testicular cancer.

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A lot of new pet owners ask about how to recognize when their dog is getting ill. It really pays off to know your dog well and his personality and behavioral patterns as this will be a main indicator in determining whether or not your pooch is sick. Pay close attention and watch for changes in his behavior, his eating and drinking habits, and his sleep pattern. If your dog seems to be urinating a lot more than usual that is a pretty strong sign something isn't right. So is vomiting and sudden weight loss. Watch and notice for any limping, or maybe even a vocal indicator such as a whimper.

One question that gets asked a lot is about getting your dog to stop eating the lawn. Many dogs when they are let out to use the bathroom have a bad habit of eating grass. There are many suggested theories as to why this is, but none are conclusive as to why dog's do this. The only thing that is known for sure is that when a dog munches on some grass he usually throws it back up. One of the best ways to keep your dog from doing this is to get some specially made grass that you place on your dog's dog food that is supposed to help your dog stop eating the grass outside.

There are many more questions that new dog owners ask that just won't fit into the body of this article. These are just a few tips and pointers to help you make sure you are taking care of your dog correctly and are helping you to help your new friend adjust to his new home. It can be easy to get overwhelmed at first when learning how to care for a pet, but in due time it will become natural to you, so don't sweat a thing. Just hang in there and enjoy your dog!

FAQ About Dog Health

The Author is the happy owner of a pet health and insurance site called Pet Insurance Pro where he shares a lot more information on pet health, pet fitness and pet longevity. Read the latest article on VIP Pet Insurance

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Cycling and Male Sexual Health

With the Tour de France 2008 well under way, an interesting article has surfaced looking at the effects of cycling and male sexual health. Specifically that cyclists could suffer sexual problems if they do not use the correct bike.

The report by a Urology Consultant and Surgeon (Vinod Nargund) from St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, England, and published in the online Urology Journal BJU International, claims that the act of cycling puts pressure on nerves and blood vessels which can affect a mans sperm count, and that cycling also restricts the flow of blood and generates heat which could result in me having difficulty with erections, and other aspects of male sexual health.

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It is estimated that over sixty per cent of men who cycle experience genital numbness, due to the bicycle saddle making contact were the nerves and blood vessels enter the back of the scrotum and penis.

Additionally, both mountain bikers and those who cycle with too much pedal resistance are at greatest risk of impacting on their male sexual health.

While there is no clear established link between cycling and male infertility, it is a conceivable side effect.

In order to avoid male sexual problems men must choose the right bike, with the appropriate frame, and make the proper adjustments for height, posture and balance. Always use a padded saddle and cycling shorts are essential. Take regular rest periods, and when possible cycle in lower gear.

So take care and protect your male sexual health.

Enjoy the Tour!

Richard Main

Cycling and Male Sexual Health

To learn more about mens health issues, please visit Richard Mains website at: http://www.menshealthzone.info

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Your Dachshund's Health

Dachshunds for the most part are a healthy breed of dog. This dog, because of their long backs and short rib cavities are very susceptible to spinal problems. They also tend to become overweight, which makes them a bit lazy. Due to these factors there can be a higher risk of strain or injury on their spinal vertebrae from jumping or going up and down stairs. In extreme cases of a back condition the Dachshund may need to be confined to a crate and give anti-inflammatory medications or even surgery to remove the damaged disk or disks. It is also very important to understand how to hold a Dachshund properly. Both the front and rear portions of their body must be fully supported.

Dachshunds which are considered a part of the small dog family is also at risk of developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) Dachshunds also have tendencies for seizures which can range from mild to severe. These dogs can be prone to mammary tumors in both the male and the female. Spaying or neutering is the only know prevention prior to 6 month old for a male and before the first heat for a female.

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As for most dogs, heartworms are becoming a leading fast killer. The condition is preventable with treatments that are available. Dachshunds tend to have teeth and gum problems which can cause several other health issues to include kidney failure, heart problems and sinus and eye infections as well. Regular brushings and a yearly dental cleaning by a vet are recommended. Some variations of Dachshunds can develop blindness, deafness, or a loss to some extent of these senses.

All in all with a proper diet, and a reasonable and proper amount of exercise the Dachshund can live a long and healthy life. This life span can be as long as fifteen years on the average.

Your Dachshund's Health

From Bonnie Holscher -Writer, Take Action Coach and Daucshund/Chihuahua Owner. Bonnie has been online since 2007 teaching others how to take steps forward on their success road. http://www.inpursuitofwealth.com is where you will find more ideas, tips, principles and resources you can use to achieve your financial freedom.

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Take Your Dog to the Beach - Tips For Your Dog's Health and Safety

Know the Rules and Regulations - Not all beaches allow dogs. Beaches that do allow them may require that they be on-leash at all times. You are responsible for your dog's behavior and for treating other people at the beach with courtesy.

pamper your dog

o Talk to your Vet - There are sun related products for dogs such as protective goggles and canine sun block. Check with your Vet for what they recommend for your pet.

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o Collar and Tag - Add your cellphone number to a waterproof tag on your dog's collar. If you get separated that my help get your dog returned within minutes.

o Fleas - Many beaches have sand fleas. Talk to your vet about flea care. Remove their flea collar if they normally wear one. A wet flea collar won't work and may irritate their skin.

o Controlling your Dog - If you are taking your dog to a beach where s/he will be off leash, be confident that you can control your dog. Especially for dogs that don't get to visit the beach very often the various interesting scents may lead them away from you. Be sure in your dog's behavior when off leash.

o Dogs need sunscreen - Make sure to add sunscreen to your dog's nose and ears if you will be at the beach.

o Shade - If there aren't any shady areas at the beach you will be visiting bring along an extra umbrella for your Dog. Your pet needs some relief from the sun and heat and will enjoy curling up under their umbrella.

o Paw Protection - Hot sand and beach debris can hurt your dog's paws. Consider doggie boots to protect your pet from the heat. Dogs absorb and release heat through their paws and the boots will protect them from the heat just as they do from the cold.

o Dehydration - Dogs cool off by panting instead of sweating. If you notice your dog is lethargic or drooling excessively it may be getting dehydrated. Pull up a section of skin and if it takes longer then normal to fall into place that is another sign.

o Keep your Dog Hydrated - Bring plenty of drinking water and give your dog a drink frequently. If your dog is good sized you can use a Doggie Pack or Vest to carry their water and bowl. A collapsible bowl is great for a trip to the beach.

o Activity Level - Don't let your dog get to tired. As your pet gets older s/he won't have the strength and stamina they once had. Running in the heat and sand may also make their outing more strenuous than they are used too.

o Dogs Love to Dig - The beach is a great place for your dog to dig to their hearts content. S/he may also enjoy relaxing in the coolness of the hole that they have created.

o Swimming - Some dogs love the water but it's not for every dog. Watch them closely and be on the watch for undercurrents and rip tides. Any dog that goes out on a boat needs a flotation device.

o Beachcombing - Dogs tend to be inquisitive. Watch your dog closely to make sure s/he doesn't get into anything dangerous. Fishing tackle and other debris that has washed up may be sharp. Dead fish or other objects may be toxic and be a hazard.

o Pests - Sea lice and jellyfish can be a threat to dogs. Sea lice can cause itchy, red bumps on your dog's skin. If jellyfish are in the area, your dog should stay out of the water.

o Pick Up After Your Dog - Just like anyplace else you take your dog, bring a supply of bags to clean up after your pet.

o Bath Time - Try to give your dog a shower or rinse with fresh water before leaving the beach. When you get home give him or her a good bath. Sea water can be harmful to your dog.

o NEVER Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car - A car will retain a surprising amount of heat even if it's in the shade. Leaving a dog in the car is a leading source of harm to dogs.

Take Your Dog to the Beach - Tips For Your Dog's Health and Safety

Kerry Smith is the publisher of http://www.tips-for-the-beach.com

His website provides tips for products to make going to the beach more comfortable along with safety, destination and other related tips and information.

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9 Tips For Maintaining Your Dog's Health

The saying goes that a dog is man's best friend. While this statement is true, you must also understand that you must also be your dogs best friend. Dogs have a variety of needs that must be met to keep them healthy and strong through out their lives. These needs are going to have to be supplied by you. Luckily most of them can be met by simply interacting with your pet and by following these 9 tips for maintaining your dogs health.

Regular Vet Visits

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Your dog needs regular vet visits throughout his life. He not only needs to see the vet for necessary shots and vaccines as well as heart worm tests, but a vet may also spot a potential health problem while it can still be treated early enough to avoid affecting your dogs daily health and activities.

Spaying or Neutering

Spaying or Neutering your dog at the appropriate age will not only prevent unwanted pregnancies but will also help protect your dog from other problems as well. A male dog that is neutered is less likely to become aggressive and a female dog who is spayed is less likely to get breast cancer and other illnesses.

Good Nutrition

Good nutrition is essential to keeping your dog healthy. Do your homework and find the diet that gives your dog the perfect balance to keep him healthy and fit. Keep in mind that his dietary needs may change as he ages and that adjustments may have to be done with his diet. Avoid unhealthy snacks and treats.

Regular Flea Treatments

Making sure your dog is treated regularly for fleas is important. Not only don't you want your house infested with these menaces but flea infestations can make your dog miserable as well as ill.

Proper Socialization

Properly socializing your dog will make him less anxious and more well behaved. It will also help to stem any aggressive tendencies that arise from your dog being introduced to new situations or people that make him nervous or threatened. It also will make traveling with him easier for both you and your pet.

Basic Training

At a minimum your dog should sit, stay, and come on command. He also should be trained to a leash. By training your dog to follow these basic commands you can maintain control which will help keep your dog safe and secure and by your side.

Proper Grooming

Make sure you keep your dog properly groomed. Brushing, bathing, nail clipping and teeth maintenance are all important to keeping your dog comfortable and healthy.

Exercise

Exercise helps your dog keep in shape and helps prevent boredom which can result in negative behaviors. The amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on the breed of dog and its size. Make sure that it has the required amount of daily exercise.

Attention and Affection

Dogs, like people, need attention and affection to be happy and well adjusted. Spending time with your dog and playing with him will help the bond between you grow stronger and will result in a much happier and well behaved dog.

Follow these 9 simple tips and your dog will stay active, happy and healthy for many years to come.

9 Tips For Maintaining Your Dog's Health

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies, check out our selection of large dog beds & unique dog collars & leashes online!

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Grapes, Nuts, and Your Dogs Health - Foods that Fido should Avoid

"Magoo was a big, playful Labrador retriever who often got himself into sticky situations..."

stop your dog from barking

So begins a story in the latest report from the ASPCA on foods that may be toxic to dogs. It turns out that Magoo got into the pantry and snagged himself about a pound of raisins. He ate the whole thing, of course.

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The ASPCA never mentions Magoo's fate. But they do tell us that as little as a handful of raisins can impair a dogs health and has been fatal for some. Ditto for the grape.

Who Knew?

Growing up, I regarded our family dogs as "the first cycle of the dishwasher". They were good about waiting their turn for whatever we left on our plates, and we weren't too concerned about offering them "people food". It never crossed our minds that our dogs health could be affected by a few measly table scraps. What was safe for us, we figured, was safe for our pets.

What's more, whenever I ate grapes, I liked to give one or two to our German Shepherd "Tiffany". The grapes always popped out of her mouth when she tried to bite into them and Tiffany, ever the good sport, refused to give up until she'd squashed each one into submission. It guaranteed at least 60 seconds of harmless fun.

Tiffany was also fond of chewing gum (she chewed it -- wrapper and all -- but didn't swallow it!) We had the sugarless kind, which is often sweetened these days with xylitol.

Little did I know that I might have been poisoning our family pet! (More on xylitol below).

Why are grapes harmful?

As far as grapes and raisins go, no one is sure why they're harmful. It's been confirmed that even grapes grown without fertilizers or pesticides can be toxic to dogs. But not to every dog, and not every time. It's also not known whether small amounts eaten over a long time period could have a cumulative effect.

What we do know is that the end result in nearly all reported cases of grape or raisin toxicity is acute kidney failure. (The term "acute" means that the condition is severe and comes on quickly.) The dog ultimately can't produce urine, which means they can't filter toxins out of their systems -- a process essential to life.

During the twelve-month period in which the effects of grapes were studied, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center handled 140 cases involving one or more dogs. Over a third of the dogs developed symptoms ranging from vomiting to kidney failure, and seven dogs died. The ASPCA based their study on reported cases, so naturally there may be cases where a dogs health is entirely unaffected by eating grapes. But until they know all the facts, the Society advises against feeding pets grapes or raisins in any amount.

An ounce of prevention

So, your dog just scored himself a big box of raisins. What's a pet owner to do?

The first line of defense, if the grapes or raisins were eaten recently, is to induce vomiting and administer activated charcoal (it absorbs toxins in the GI tract). Vomiting is also the first sign that your dog is in trouble, so skip right to the activated charcoal if vomiting has already occurred. (In a pinch you can make your own activated charcoal by charring a piece of toast until it's blackened and crumbles easily.) Then call your vet right away.

Can't reach the vet? Call ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435

The vet will keep your dog on intravenous fluids for at least 48 hours and monitor blood chemistry daily. Normal blood work after 3 days usually means your dog is in the clear.

Keeping a watchful eye out, of course, is the best way to keep your pet out of trouble. Like children, dogs (and other pets) have a knack for getting into mischief when we're not looking.

It's Not Just the Grapes...

There are other foods your dog should be kept away from, and some of them may surprise you.

Here are some other foods that can put a dogs health in harms way:

Chocolate

Who can resist chocolate? Like it your not, your dog.

Chocolate is made with cocoa beans and cocoa beans contain a chemical called Theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Different types of chocolate have varying effects on dogs health. Dark chocolate has the largest theobromine, coming in at a whopping 450mg (compared to 1mg for white chocolate). So on Valentine's Day, you're actually being kind to your best buddy if you eat all the chocolates yourself!

Cocoa Mulch

Cocoa bean shells are a by-product of chocolate production (which is how mulch made it into the "foods" category) and are popular as mulch for landscaping. Homeowners like the attractive color and scent, and the fact that the mulch breaks down into an organic fertilizer. However, some dogs like to eat it and it contains Theobromine.

Fatty foods

Fatty foods are hard for a dog to digest and can can overtax the pancreas, leading to pancreatitis. This can threaten your dogs health and is potentially fatal.

Nuts

Macadamia nuts should be avoided. In fact most nuts are not good for a dogs health since their high phosporus content is said to lead to bladder stones.

Mulch

Mulch isn't food, but there's one type tempting enough for dogs to eat. Some dogs are attracted to cocoa mulch, and will eat it in varying quantities. The coca bean shells can contain from 0.2% to 3% theobromine (the toxin ) as compaired to 1-4% in unprocessed beans.

Onions

Onions, especially raw onions, have been shown to trigger hemolytic anemia in dogs. (Stephen J Ettinger, D.V.M and Edward C. Fieldman, D.V.M. 's book: Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine vol. 2 pg 1884.) Stay away from onion powder too.

Potatoes

Potato poisonings among people and dogs are rare but have occurred. The toxin, solanine, is poorly absorbed and is only found in green sprouts (these occur in tubers exposed to sunlight) and green potato skins. This explains why incidents seldom occur. Note that cooked, mashed potatoes are fine for a dogs health, actually quite nutritious and digestible.

Artificial Sweeteners

Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many products, especially sugarless gum and candies. Ingesting large amounts of products sweetened with xylitol may cause a sudden drop in blood sugar in dogs, resulting depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. According to Dr. Eric K. Dunayer, a consulting veterinarian in clinical toxicology for the poison control center, "These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion of the product" states Dr. Dunayer, "...therefore, it is important that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately."

Turkey

Turkey skin is currently thought to cause acute pancreatis in dogs, partly due to it's high fat content.

Other foods listed by the ASPCA as harmful:

Alcoholic beverages

Avocado (the only "fatty" member of the vegetable family)

Coffee (all forms of coffee)

Moldy or spoiled foods

Salt

Yeast dough

Garlic

The Bottom Line

Thanks to a more educated public, fewer fatalities from foods like chocolate are being reported these days. But it's important to keep up with what's currently known about foods and their effects on dogs health. Grapes and cocoa mulch, for example, were only discovered very recently to have harmful effects.
Check frequently with sources like the ASPCA, or sign up for the "Cold Noses News" and we'll keep you informed. (You'll also get a bunch of cool dog stuff along with your free registration).

Of course, being alert and getting your pet to the vet promptly will help assure a happy outcome if something unfortunate should happen.
Here's to your dogs health and good nutrition!

Grapes, Nuts, and Your Dogs Health - Foods that Fido should Avoid

© 2004, Carolyn Schweitzer. Lifelong dog-lover and family dentist Carolyn Schweitzer is owner and editor of DevotedToDogs.org where she offers a wide range of information on dog training, dogs health, and other topics near and dear to dog owners everywhere.

You can reach Carolyn by email at carolyn@netbrainer.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.

knit your dog book

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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Pet Health Care Costs

One of the biggest things to keep in mind before deciding to purchase an animal is going to be the pet health care costs you'll be facing. These costs differ dramatically between different types of pets and different situations. For instance, there's probably no comparing the most dire medical costs for a hamster to even the most basic health costs of a horse. While we'd all like nothing more than for our pets to be entirely healthy and happy for all the years of their lives, we must operate under the assumption that something serious inevitably will happen, and that in such an event, we, as owners, must be willing to pay the resulting veterinary costs. So what kind of up front costs can you expect? What should you be prepared for? Read on to have your questions answered.

As you make your pet purchasing decisions, ask yourself how much pet health care cost you're prepared to deal with. If your answer is "not very much," it's probably best to invest in a lower budget animal such as a goldfish or betta fish or a small mammal like a hamster or mouse. This is not to say that these animals will have perfect health and will never need to see the vet, but the likelihood of a fish or hamster incurring hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of medical care is slim. Unlike dogs, cats, or horses, a fish or small mammal doesn't require yearly vaccinations or check-ups. If you're on a budget, avoid any animal that's considered "exotic" such as reptiles, amphibians, and exotic birds like parrots. Many times, these animals require special, difficult to find vets who charge more for their expertise. Research and plan before you buy!

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While you may not have any up-front health costs for a hamster, fish, or other small animal, you have to consider the fact that your pet may take ill at some point. For fish, one of your biggest concerns will be a disease called Ich, which can be treated with a bottle of solution from the pet store. For hamsters, mice, and other rodents, home-diagnosis is usually tricky, so a trip to the vet will be necessary. Most vets charge a flat fee for an office visit-that is, just for bringing your animal into the exam room. This fee varies from vet to vet, but expect to pay anywhere between and just for the visit, plus extra for whatever medication your pet might require.

For larger or more exotic animals, your pet health care costs will inevitably increase. Puppies and kittens alike must have 3 or 4 rounds of booster shots in their first few months of life. Depending on your vet, this set of vaccinations can run anywhere from to 0. After the booster shots, your cat or dog will need a check up, vaccination, and rabies shot every year for the rest of their life. On top of that, you'll need to have your dog or cat spayed or neutered around the age of 6 months. The cost of spaying or neutering depends upon the type of animal, and upon the animal's gender. As spaying is far more invasive than neutering, it's naturally going to be more expensive, and since dogs are generally larger than cats, the cost will be greater for dogs. Expect to pay between and 0 to have a cat altered and between and 0 to have a dog altered. Some cities offer low-cost spay/neuter clinics where you can get a considerably reduced-cost surgery--a feline neutering could be as little as at a low-cost clinic!

As much as you don't want to think about it, you must also factor potential major illnesses or emergency situations into your pet planning. A basic broken bone can rack up a bill around ,000 for a dog or cat. A major internal surgery and stay at the vet could cost you upwards of 00. Treatment for a chronic illness such as cancer could have you looking at numbers in the ,000's as well. Some animals may develop conditions that require daily medication, in which case you'll have monthly costs to contend with that could be from for a basic medication on up. For horses or other larger animals, add another zero to each of these cost estimates.

While owning a pet should never be reduced to a matter of numerical figures, the reality of pet health care costs must be dealt with before you bring an animal into your home. You owe it to yourself to be fiscally responsible, but moreover, you owe it to the living creature who is going to be depending on you for its every need.

Pet Health Care Costs

About The Author: Barry S. Mcgee is a pet enthusiast. His site at: http://www.squidoo.com/petcareonline provides advice and information on all aspects of pet care for all types of pets including dogs, cats, ferrets and others and makes it easier for pet owners to choose the best solution for their companion's care.

For answers to all your pet care questions, please visit: http://www.squidoo.com/petcareonline

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Why Natural Balance Dog Food is Essential For Your Dogs Health

Although you may not be aware of this fact, the overall well-being of your dog has a great deal to do with the ingredients used to make up his or her food. With this in mind, if you want the very best of health for your canine friend, selecting a natural balance diet is the way forward.

stop your dog from barking

The ingredients of all commercially produced dog foods are listed on the label of the packaging and this is the place you should start when choosing what you give your dog to eat. These components are detailed in the order of amount with the highest percentage of the overall product at the top, and the least at the bottom of the list.

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Products showing meat and vegetables as the highest percentage on the label should be the recipe you are looking for. Try to avoid foods that state they contain such foods as chicken meal, fishmeal and other meat meals as these are not meat; they are simply by products from those animals. Such by products could be from the fur or feathers of the animal or even fish scales in the case of fish meal, so it is best to steer clear of foods with their main ingredient as "meals".

A natural balance dog food should be one that contains no chemicals. However, within the wide range of commercially produced food for dogs, these are few and far between as the majority of this type contains preservatives, flavorings and colorings of a chemical nature.

So how do you find the best kind of dog food? Well, you could start by taking a little time to carry out some research of your own. You will discover that natural dog foods only use healthy ingredients and this promotes a shiny coat, bright eyes, as well as ensuring the perfect functioning of the internal organs.

What you need is a natural balance dog food made up of meat and vegetables reared or grown by organic methods and this way you will be providing your animal with the very best food you possibly can, ensuring a happy and healthy life for your best friend.

Why Natural Balance Dog Food is Essential For Your Dogs Health

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People Food Can Be Harmful to Your Dogs Health - 10 Human Foods to Never Feed Your Dog

Growing up twenty years ago people didn't really know about table scraps harming their dog. After dinner we would take all the leftovers and make a leftover gravy to dump over their dry dog food. You just can't do that anymore.

pamper your dog

Most dogs will eat anything. Sometimes without even chewing. But you need to be careful on what to feed them. There are certain foods you should never feed your dog.

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First of all, never give your dog any chicken bones. Pork and fish bones are also just as bad. They can splinter and get stuck in their jaw or throat. This can cause choking and even tear up their digestive system.

2. You may have heard not to feed dogs chocolate. This is true and includes white and baking chocolates. The darker the chocolates the more harmful.

3. No tea or coffee or anything with caffeine in it. There is a substance that can be extremely toxic and cause seizures. It can also effect the heart and nervous system.

4. Grapes or raisins if fed to your dog can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even kidney failure.

5. Dogs should not drink dairy products. Unlike most cats,dogs are lactose intolerant. There are however special milks made for dogs.

6. No Avocados. Everything to do with avocados including the tree, is toxic to dogs.

7. Dogs love gum, but sugar free gum contains a substance called xylitol. It can rapidly lower your dogs blood sugar levels and that can be deadly.

8. Do not give your dogs mushrooms because they may contain toxins that cause liver and kidney damage.

9. Onions that are raw or even cooked can be bad for your dog. They can damage a dogs blood cells and cause anemia.

10. And last on this list is macadamia nuts. They contain a compound that if eaten by your dog will cause temporary hind leg paralysis.

No one wants to feed their dog anything that will make them sick or worst. Hopefully this list will help you avoid those mistakes. Also take some extra time to analyze what you have been feeding your dog. It could make all the difference in their health and well being.

People Food Can Be Harmful to Your Dogs Health - 10 Human Foods to Never Feed Your Dog

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