My Dog Needs a Mint! What does my dog's bad breath really mean?

As much as I love my dog, there was a time that I did not love his breath. It's hard to sit close to a panting pooch with halitosis no matter how close your bond. Here are some important things to know about your dog's mouth and health. 

First of all, halitosis is caused by odor-pruducing bacteria in your pets mouth, lungs, or digestive tract. That's right, you may need more than a better oral hygiene routine.  

Most commonly bad breath is caused by gum disease, or gingivitis, so treating gum disease first is a great place to start. Gingivitis usually precedes periodontal disease. Below is from petmd.com. 

"Periodontal disease is an inflammation of some or all of a tooth’s deep supporting structures. Today, it is one of the most common diseases in dogs.

If food particles and bacteria are allowed to accumulate along the dog's gumline, it can form plaque, which, when combined with saliva and minerals, will transform into calculus. This causes gum irritation and leads to an inflammatory condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis, which is evidenced by a reddening of the gums directly bordering the teeth, is considered to be an early stage of periodontal disease.

After an extended period, the calculus builds up under the gum and separates it from the teeth. Spaces will form under the teeth, fostering bacterial growth. Once this happens, the dog has irreversible periodontal disease. This usually leads to bone loss, tissue destruction and pus formation in the cavities between the gum and teeth.

Periodontal disease affects both cats and dogs of all ages, though it is more common in older animals. Poor nutrition will also contribute to the onset of the condition."

Three things you can do to prevent or treat gum disease in your dog: 

1. Brush your dog’s teeth frequently -- every day if possible. (Only use toothpaste formulated for dogs as human toothpaste can upset a canine’s stomach.)

2. Provide hard, safe chew toys that allow your dog’s teeth to be cleaned by the natural process of chewing.

3. Give your dog treats formulated to improve breath odor. (My dog's favorite dental sticks.)

4. Feed your dog a high-quality dog food.  

Persistent bad breath can also indicate larger medical problems in the mouth, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract so don't stop at oral hygiene! 

Here are some great ways to keep your dogs digestive system healthy as well: Not only will you have a happier and healthier dog but it can save you from future health issues that can lead to costly veterinary bills. 

1. Feed your dog a high-quality dog food containing prebiotics to support a healthy digestive tract.  

2. There is a great supplement by pawTree called Gastro Pro Plus. It contains prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. (My dog has a very sensitive digestive system and this has helped immensely!)

Please note that if your pup has had persistent bad breath despite high-quality dog food and a good oral hygiene routine then a trip to your veterinarian is highly recommended.

So I guess this post was great for pawTree! I have found that their products can't be beat as far as promoting your pets health.  

Good luck and best wishes,

Amber

Puppy Proofing Your Home: 18 Common Indoor Hazards

Puppies are curious and energetic little things and it is amazing how adept they are at getting themselves into trouble. Before you bring home your new companion be sure to walk through your home and look for potential hazards to you pet. Puppy proofing your home can save you headaches, money, and possibly your pets life. Below is a checklist to help you be aware of what to look for. There may be other things in your home that will need to be modified as well so following your new puppy around will be a great indicator of what other changes need to be made to ensure many happy years together!

1. Keep all medications, vitamins and supplements in a safe, hard-to-reach place. 

2. Check for toxic plants. The most common indoor plants that are found indoors are philodendron, calla lilly, and azalea.

3. Any standing water can be a drowning hazard. (Open toilets, bathtubs, and sinks)

4. Cleaning supplies need to be in high cupboards or secured with child proof latches on lower cupboards.

5.  Open trash bins, especially in bathrooms, need to be made inaccessible to pups. 

6.  Electrical cords can be a strangling and/or a electrocution hazard. Keep them tied up and out of sight. 

7.  Recliners, sofa beds and rocking chairs can hurt a puppys tail or leg so be watchful around moving furniture.

8. Any small objects (pins, string, coins, dental floss, buttons, jewelry, toys, etc) need to be kept out of puppys reach. Some metals are toxic and pins can be detrimental to a puppys digestive system.

9. Swallowed clothing can lead to a dangerous intestinal blockage. Keep small articles of clothing put away and hampers inaccessible. 

10. Screen off fireplaces and wood burning stoves. Don't leave a puppy unattended around open flames. 

11. Never leave your puppy alone near hot water radiators and space heaters. 

12. Cut off or tie up excess cords from drapery and blinds to avoid strangulation. 

13. Keep cat litter boxes beyond puppy boundaries (behind a baby gate in a separate room). Puppies may eat cat feces if given the opportunity. Not only is this a disgusting habit but it can make puppy sick as well. 

14. Doors and windows need to be in good repair securely closed. You don't want puppy wandering away or falling - both are equally dangerous! Be aware of a puppy following you through doors. You don't want he/she to get caught in a closing door. 

15. Until puppies are coordinated enough to navigate them independently, stairs and stairwells can be dangerous. Keep them blocked and supervise your puppy while he/she is learning to go up and down unaided. 

16. Tobacco products and anything that contains nicotine can be toxic or life-threatening to your dog.

17. There are many human foods that can pose a major health threat to your puppy. Only feed your puppy high-quality dog food and treats. Onions and garlic can lead to anemia. Grapes can can cause kidney failure. Coffee, tea, and chocolate can be dangerous to your dogs nervous system and cause caffeine induced tachycardia. All of these if severe can lead to death. 

18. Once again, human food can be a hazard to your pets health. Chicken bones, plastic food wrap, string scraps from roasts, etc. can all be harmful. Don't leave food out on a table or counter unattended. High-fat foods and dramatic diet changes can cause vomiting, diarrhea and other complications. Only feed your puppy high-quality dog food and treats. (Check out my favorite dog food brand here that offers premium all-natural nutrition and is customized for your new puppy. Fill out a pet profile to see what your puppy needs.)

Good luck! 
Amber

For All You Animal Lovers Out There

If animals are a large part of your life these are books that you just shouldn't live your life without reading. Although its been a long time since I finished the last book in this series, my memory of them still warms my heart. 

The author and main character, James Wight, is a British veterinarian and surgeon that uses the pen name James Herriot. His books are partially autobiographical and the pages are filled with touching, witty, and humorous stories as he captures perfectly the realities of life with animals. His experiences highlight the precious relationship between animals, their owners, and caretakers. 

1st Book in the Series:

Remaining books in this series:

2nd - All Things Bright and Beautiful

3rd - All Things Wise and Wonderful

4th - The Lord God Made Them All

5th (and last of this series) - Every Living Thing

Here is a link to an excerpt from his book called "Favorite Dog Stories." 

Its time to re-read these so off I go to download a copy to my tablet. Do you a favorite pet book to recommend?

Happy reading!

Amber

Being Prepared to Adopt a Dog or Puppy: 4 Easy Steps and Things to Consider

Are you ready to adopt a furry canine companion? Follow these 3 steps to help you be prepared for this life-changing event.

Photo Courtesy cutepuppiespicture.blogspot

STEP 1

Where will your companion come from? There are so many possibilities when it comes to animals that are in need of a good home. First decide if you are going to head to the local humane society or work with a breeder.You can also look for owners that need to find a home for pets that they can no longer keep. Below are some general comparisons.

Humane Society Pros
Low cost
You are saving a pet life
Huge variety of great companions waiting for loving homes
Often spays/neuters are already done
You can bring your puppy home the same day
Pet health has been addressed/maintained

Humane Society Cons
Exact breed/mix you are getting may be unknown
History of the pets life can be limited 

Pet Store Pros
You can adopt your puppy the same day

Pet Store Cons
More expensive
Pet health will need to be checked
Pet history will most likely be limited

Breeder Pros
You can pick a specific breed and personality traits 
You know the environment in which they were raised 
Pedigree charts often available
Puppy health has been well maintained (shots on track, etc.)

Breeder Cons
More expensive
You may have to travel or ship your puppy (Flying alone is not a good experience for a little pup.)
You may have a long wait until pups are born and ready to leave their moms 

Previously owned dogs can be a great new pet option. This is usually a step before people have to surrender their pet to an animal shelter. Most owners have to give up a pet for unforeseen reasons like allergies or a military assignment and would prefer to make sure their pet goes to a loving home. These animals are usually free to a good home and all the information you need can be provided by the original owner to assure a good fit. Check your local classifieds.   

STEP 2

Find a good veterinarian close to you. This is one of the most important decisions you can make. Just like the rest of us, our precious pets need regular checkups and vaccinations. Unfortunately they can also get sick, hurt, or do something that you makes  you scratch your head. A veterinarian is a necessary advocate in providing a healthy and full life for your pet.

Helps:

Ask trusted pet owner friends

Check online reviews

Visit the clinic (How is the atmosphere? Are you comfortable and treated with respect? At your first visit, how do the professionals respond to your pet?)

STEP 3

Find a great training book. Period. The only way to settle into life with a new dog is to make sure you properly train him/her. Dogs are smart and loyal and willing to learn and earn your love. Training your dog strengthens your bond, trust, and understanding of one another and requires a very small time commitment. (I worked with my dog for 5 minutes three times a day and he knew 10 easy commands by the time he was 12 weeks old.) Remember, a well-trained dog is invaluable especially in the company of others. Below is the book I used and highly recommend.

STEP 4

Its time to go shopping! Besides bringing your new puppy home, this is the most fun part of all. It is time to make your home a welcome place for the newest member of the family.

Here is a basic supply list:

Pet carrier (mostly for pups)

A couple of blankets or towels

Collar

Leash

Food and water bowls

High-quality food (click here for a great high-quality dog food and products)

Pet toys

Treats (especially for training)

Congratulations on your newest addition!

Amber 

A Wonderful Pet Life!

Like many of us, I cannot imagine life without my pets. Revisiting my childhood they taught me to love and care for something other than myself.  My happy-go-lucky black labrador named Benson taught the meaning of true friendship. My rescued alley cat, Sweetie, taught me to appreciate the moment. They, along with a slew of other small creatures, revealed just how precious and fragile our lives are. I am grateful for the times they allowed me to laugh, cuddle and coddle them, and at times cry into their warm furry bodies.

Photo Courtesy Englishlabsunset.com

Now I have 5 beautiful children and I have enjoyed watching them run around with their furry sidekicks, learning life lessons along the way. They have all fallen in love with our happy, quiet, and loyal labradoodle named Jack (below). And our mischievous and affectionate kitten (almost 9 months old) named Flynn. We also own a ball of fur Guinea pig, Ginger. 

What a wonderful life!

Amber