Does your Dog Need Medical Attention?

While they cannot communicate verbally, dogs are expressive creatures and are good at letting humans know when something is wrong. Even if your dog is not actively seeking your attention, his behavior is a great way to tell if he needs veterinary care. Here are a few common signs of physical distress in a dog:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Lethargy (no energy, laying around a lot, doesn’t want to play)
• Lack of interest in food / water
• Rapid weight loss or weight gain
• Loss of fur and/or the appearance of sores on the dog’s body
• Excessive scratching or obsessive self-grooming
• Limping or wincing
• Unusual signs of aggression or aggravation upon physical contact
• Cloudiness in the eyes/loss of eye-sight or hearing
• Any other changes in behavior from what is normal for your dog

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, seek veterinary care immediately.

Fleas and Ticks: More than Just an Annoyance

You can imagine how annoying fleas and ticks must be to your dog, but did you know the treatment of fleas and ticks is good for your dog’s health? Flea or tick infestations can cause significant harm to your dog in the form of skin rashes, open sores, lime disease, and other parasites. Keep your dog and your house free of fleas with flea and tick medication for your dog as well as the practical use of flea powder in your dog’s bed, crate, house, and other areas where he spends lots of time.

Dental Care for Dogs

Doggie dental care has become more popular as pet owners strive to keep their dogs in top shape. Canine dental care helps to keep dogs’ breath fresh and prevents gum loss and tooth decay, just as in humans.

How to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

Here are some tips on how to provide good dental hygiene for your dog:

• Provide dental chews. Doggie dental chews should be given sparingly in accordance to the label.
• Consider brushing your dog’s teeth periodically to remove plaque build-up around the gum line. You can find pet toothbrushes at most pet supply stores.
• Don’t feed your dog human food.