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You’ve seen your dog pant. When you’re running around together, it’s not unusual for you both to be panting! We like to think it’s because they’re happy – and panting does look like a big happy smile, right? But for pups, panting is multi-purpose. Some dogs may even be panting for a reason that requires the attention of a vet. Knowing why dogs pant and paying attention can tip you off and help you take better care of your dog.

 1. To Cool Off

Your dog doesn’t sweat like a human would, but he has other ways of keeping cool. Many dogs love to cool off in pools or puddles of water or mud. But the reason why dogs pant when they’re hot is to circulate air through their bodies to keep their body temperature down. If you notice your dog panting while you’re out in hot weather, take a break, make sure he stays hydrated, and find some shade or air conditioning for you both.

 2. Heat Stroke

Keeping your dog in the heat too long can lead to heat stroke. Shade and water can help stave it off, but your dog can still overheat even if he has access to those things. It’s best to keep your dog with you, not outside for long periods of time or alone in a car. We know one of the reasons why dogs pant is to cool down, but it’s not enough to avoid heat stroke. Learn How To Spot – And Treat – Heat Stroke In Your Dog.

 3. Anxiety

Excessive panting can also be a sign that your dog is anxious or afraid. You may notice “stress panting” when you introduce your dog to new situations. Loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms can also set his anxiety off. If you think your dogs pant because of fear or stress, see if you spot any of the 10 Signs Your Dog Has Anxiety.

 4. Illness

Some dogs pant when they become sick – particularly with respiratory disease or heart issues. Respiratory disease can make it difficult for your dog to breathe, often causing sneezing and coughing, or clogging his sinuses. Heart disease can send the heart rate up suddenly, making dogs pant to get enough air to catch their breath. If your dog is panting while resting, be sure to see a vet. See these Top 5 Signs Of Heart Disease In Dogs if you think your dog may have heart issues.

 5. Allergies

Dogs pant when they suffer from allergies too. If you’ve ever had them, you know how difficult breathing can become. Airways can become inflamed or constricted, causing your dog to breathe harder. Listen for wheezing, and check if your dog has any of the other 10 Signs Your Dog Is Suffering From Seasonal Allergies.

 6. Poisoning

A panting dog can be a sign that your dog has ingested poison. Dogs who may have been poisoned may also be lethargic, or may be vomiting. Poison may not always be what you think it is – there are many things we keep around our homes that can be harmful to our dogs. You probably have at least one of the 10 Foods You Didn’t Know Could Hurt Your Pup in your home right now. Make sure to keep your counters clear and a lid on your trash cans.

 

 

The post 6 Reasons Why Dogs Pant appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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You know your dog better than anyone, but that doesn’t make it easy to know when she’s not feeling well. She can’t come out and tell you she’s ill, and that leaves you to worry and wonder when something seems “off.”

Decreased activity is one of the most common symptoms of canine illness. Commonality, however, doesn’t make it easy to identify or interpret. If your dog is lethargic, there’s always a reason. The trick is knowing what that reason is. It could be something as simple as a sore muscle or as life-threatening as cancer. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

What a Lethargic Dog Looks Like

The average dog sleeps about 10 hours a day, and they spend several more hours being awake but inactive. Your pup’s normal activity level will largely depend on her breed and age, and the more time you spend with her, the better you’ll know what her “normal” actually looks like. It’s important to have a general idea of your dog’s energy level so if it changes, you can recognize the difference between having a lazy day and being lethargic.

When a dog is lethargic, she stops doing the things she usually enjoys. She’d rather lay in the grass than chase a tennis ball, and her bin of tug toys remains untouched. A dog suffering from lethargy won’t respond to her name, and she’ll stay in bed long after her usual wake-up call. It might take some seriously yummy treats to convince her to get up, and she’ll be slow and disinterested during her regular walk.

Reasons a Dog is Lethargic

Once you’ve determined your dog is indeed acting unusually inactive, your next step is to determine the cause. Unfortunately, lethargy is related to a long list of illnesses and issues. Here are the top five categories that could be causing your canine to slow down.

#1 – Illness

When you’re sick, all you want to do is lay in bed and watch Netflix. Your dog might choose listening to a dog-friendly audiobook over binge watching the newest Netflix original, but it’s normal for them to want to take it easy when they’re not feeling well. The list of possible illnesses is far too long to include in this one article, but your dog could be showing symptoms of anything from kennel cough to cancer.

Parvovirus is common in young dogs and puppies, and dogs that love the outdoors are at risk of contracting a bacterial disease called leptosporosis. There’s also the chance your dog has diabetes or heart disease. All of these scary-sounding illnesses might have you rushing to the vet right away, but not every bout of lethargy is life threatening.

#2 – Pain

A long hike, extra time at the dog park, or an awkward jump off the couch have potential to slow your dog down. Dogs suffer from sore muscles just like people do. If you notice your dog is lethargic the day after a lot of physical activity, she might have over done it. Weekend warriors are dogs that spend Monday through Friday on the couch and every weekend doing things like climbing mountains and going on long runs with their humans. Those long stretches of inactivity coupled with short bursts of overexertion aren’t good for your dog’s body. Her lethargy could be a simple case of too much exercise in too short a time period.

If it’s not muscle pain, your dog could be hiding a more serious injury or even something like a snake bite. The next time you sit down to cuddle your pup, take time to examine her body for cuts and areas of swelling. Dogs with long hair are good at hiding their injuries, and even the smallest cuts can become infected.

#3 – Something They Ate

Dogs don’t realize things like chocolate and onions can make them sick, and they greedily gobble down everything they can get their mouths on. It doesn’t even have to be food—dogs eat cardboard, plastic, your shoes, and your pup might have snagged the aspirin bottle you forgot to put away. Dogs that have histories of counter surfing often end up eating dangerous things and paying for it with upset tummies. Eating too fast can also make a dog feel sick and lethargic.

Other potential toxins to consider are plants that are poisonous to dogs and pesticides. Sometimes dogs get over their stomach pangs with no harm done, but some foods and household items lead to serious medical issues.

#4 – Fear and Anxiety

It might not be your dog’s body that’s keeping her off her feet—it could be her mind. Dr. Becker lists lethargy as one of the main symptoms of depression in dogs. Dogs can feel depressed because of the sudden absence of a loved one, lack of attention, or general instability in their lives.

If a diagnosis of depression doesn’t seem like the right fit, your dog could be afraid or anxious. A new family member in the house, or even a new piece of furniture, can easily freak out a nervous dog. Her fear of the unknown can convince her to hide or stay in one place. How much she feels like moving around and interacting with people may also have to do with her anxiety. PetCareRX says,

“Some dogs want to be alone when they are experiencing anxiety. They may hide out of fear or move away from people and other pets.”

#5 – Medication Side Effects

The downside of many prescribed medications is they almost always come with side effects. Lethargy is one of the most common. Sometimes lethargy is a side effect all on its own, but it’s possible a dog is lethargic because of a completely different side effect. According to PetMd, for example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications used to treat chronic pain are known to cause liver and kidney damage. You won’t be able to tell right away that something bad is happening in your dog’s organs, but if a dog is lethargic, they might be suffering from liver or kidney failure due to a medication.

You’ll have to speak to a vet and gauge your dog’s well-being to decide if the benefits of the medication outweigh the side effects. If they don’t, it might be time to shift away from medications and toward natural treatments like CBD oil.

When to be Concerned

Not every situation warrants a visit to the vet, but knowing when it’s time to make an appointment could save your dog’s life. If your dog is lethargic, and she also meets one or more of these points, it’s best to call your veterinarian.

• Lethargy lasts more than 24 hours
• Prolonged lack of appetite (refusing more than one meal)
• Consistent coughing/sneezing
• Bloody diahrea
• Bloody vomit
• Temperature above 103 degrees

Whether you’ve noticed a gradual decrease in your dog’s activity or she suddenly show signs of lethargy, your best plan of action is to continue observing her. Monitor her behavior and look for additional symptoms of illness. If she still seems “off” after one day, feel free to call your vet. They might recommend you bring her in right away or suggest waiting a few days. Either way, it’s best to keep your vet involved.

Sources: VetStreet, PetMd, PetCareRX, Mercola Healthy Pets

The post If Your Dog Is Lethargic, It’s Time To Figure Out Why appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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All dogs need at least a little bit of grooming over the course of their lifetime, even if it’s only regular nail trims and the occasional bath. Whether you groom your dog yourself or take them to a groomer, it should be a positive experience for your dog. Unfortunately, things can go wrong and accidents can happen. Luckily, there are things you can do to help ensure your dog stays safe during a grooming session.

Tips for grooming your dog yourself

#1 – Give your dog plenty of treats during and after grooming

Your dog should look forward to your grooming sessions rather than dreading them. A happy dog is more likely to hold still. Most accidents occur because a dog is wiggling or trying to get away.

#2 – Never use scissors to cut out mats

This is one of the top causes of owners accidentally injuring their dogs. Use a #10 blade on clippers to gently shave off mats. Skin can get pulled up into tight mats, making it easy to cut the skin if you try using scissors to cut mats out.

#3 – Go slow

Rushing is another common way for accidents to happen. Break grooming into several smaller sessions if necessary to keep yourself and your dog calm. There’s no worse feeling than injuring your dog because you were rushing their grooming.

#4 – Do your research

Whether you watch a ton of YouTube videos or talk to a professional groomer, learn as much as you can before grooming your dog to avoid the most preventable accidents.

Tips for finding a groomer

#1 – Ask about their experience

Currently, no state in the United States requires groomers to have any licensing. The facilities may be licensed, but the groomers themselves are not. That means anybody can buy a pair of clippers, watch a couple of videos, and declare themselves a groomer. There’s a huge learning curve in grooming. Look for somebody who has been grooming for at least 5 years.

While there isn’t any mandatory licensing for groomers, there are ways to get certified. Groomers with certifications have taken the time, expense, and often travel to go through intense written and practical testing to prove their skills. They may charge more than other groomers, but their certification shows their dedication to their craft.

Bonus points go to groomers who are familiar with how to do CPR on dogs.

#2 – Ask about the equipment being used

In particular, ask what kind of dryer or dryers the groomer uses. Kennel dryers can cause problems for brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dog breeds. Heated dryers can cause dogs to overheat. And high-velocity dryers can be frightening for sensitive dogs. Good groomers will know the best way to dry various breeds and personalities of dogs safely.

You also want to make sure the facility looks and smells clean. You may not be allowed into the grooming area for liability reasons, but unless a mess is actively being cleaned up, the grooming salon should smell clean and there shouldn’t be excessive amounts of hair on the floor.

#3 – Communicate clearly with the groomer

Is your dog afraid of the dryer? Does he panic if placed in a kennel? Do they tend to bite when having their nails trimmed? The more information you can give the groomer, the easier it is for the groomer to keep your fur child safe during the grooming appointment. Don’t be embarrassed to admit that your dog has problems with certain parts of the grooming process. A good groomer will be able to work around those things, especially if they’re aware of them ahead of time.

Having detailed conversations with the groomer at the beginning of the appointment also ensures the groomer knows exactly what type of haircut you’re looking for, reducing the chances of you coming back to a surprise when your dog doesn’t look at all the way you expected.

#4 – Watch how the groomer does other dogs…but not your own

It’s great to watch how the groomer handles dogs during the grooming process – but if your dog can see or smell you, they are likely to act up during the grooming because they will be trying to get to you instead of being calm for the groomer. Watching your dog get groomed can actually CAUSE accidents sometimes. Unless there’s a way to watch the process without your dog seeing you, it’s safer not to watch. Do ask if a groomer uses cameras in their salon – if you suspect your dog was abused during an appointment, a camera can show exactly what happened.

#5 – Look for reviews

These days, there are plenty of opportunities for people to leave reviews of groomers, whether it’s on Google, Yelp, or the business’s Facebook page. Keep in mind that accidents can happen, and there may be the occasional nasty review, but a groomer or grooming salon should have overall positive reviews.

#6 – Stick with one groomer and see them regularly

Infrequent grooming with a different person every time can cause dogs A LOT of stress, which increases the chances of an accident happening. If your dog can develop a relationship with one groomer who they see on a regular basis (usually at least every 8 weeks, depending on the breed), your dog will know what to expect from the grooming appointment and will be more relaxed, reducing the odds of any accidents happening.

This also allows the groomer to get to know your dog and recognize any changes in him. Groomers are often able to spot health changes (like bumps, skin changes, fur changes, or personality changes) before owners who see their dogs every day.

(H/T: People, TODAY, She Knows)

The post 10 Ways To Ensure Your Dog Stays Safe During A Grooming Session appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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Determining a dog’s real age is far more complicated than simply multiplying by seven for every “human” year. According to veterinarians and researchers, size and breed both play major roles in canine aging.

From tiny Teacup Poodles to giant Great Danes; there simply cannot be a one-size-fits-all calculation for the entire species.

A study led by Dr. Kate Creevy of the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine found that while small dogs have the aging advantage later in life, they age faster in the first two years. On the other hand, very large dogs can take up to two years to reach full maturity, but may only live another five or six years.

“Small dogs reach skeletal and reproductive maturity sooner than larger breeds,” Creevy said in an interview with BBC. “Once they’ve achieved those measures of adulthood, they carry on to live longer.”

Strangely, this phenomenon only appears in dogs. Dr. Creevy chocks it up to the fact that no other species has such a diverse range of sizes. To determine your dog’s real age, she recommends the following guidelines:

For the first two years:

• Small dogs: 12.5 years per human year
• Medium sized dogs: 10.5 years per human year
• Large dogs: 9 years per human year

For dogs three and up, breed begins to come into play. For example, Bulldogs have shorter life expectancies due to their high risk of respiratory crisis. Larger canines like Golden Retrievers and Boxers have a much higher chance of dying from cancer, and are more likely to succumb to intestinal diseases or musculoskeletal problems.

Taking this into account, add the following number of years for each additional “human year” to calculate the age of these popular breeds:

• Dachshund (Miniature) 4.32
• Border Terrier 4.47
• Lhasa Apso 4.49
• Shih Tzu 4.78
• Whippet 5.30
• Chihuahua 4.87
• West Highland Terrier 4.96
• Beagle 5.20
• Miniature Schnauzer 5.46
• Cocker Spaniel 5.55
• Cavalier King Charles 5.77
• Pug 5.95
• French Bulldog 7.65
• Springer Spaniel 5.46
• Labrador Retriever 5.74
• Golden Retriever 5.74
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier 5.33
• Bulldog 13.42
• German Shepherd 7.84
• Boxer 8.90

So the real age of a 7-year-old Miniature Dachshund is 46.6 in “dog years”, while a 7-year-old Boxer is more like 62.5.

Determining a dog’s real age becomes more complicated if the biological age is unknown and/or the pooch is a mixed breed. With these dogs, taking a peek at the teeth can be quite helpful.

These canine dental facts can help you approximate your dog’s biological age:

• at 8 weeks: All baby teeth are in.
• by 7 months: All permanent teeth are in and are white and clean.
• 1-2 years: Teeth are duller and the back teeth may have some yellowing.
• 3-5 years: All teeth may have tartar buildup and some tooth wear.
• 5-10 years: Teeth show more wear and signs of disease.
• 10-15 years: Teeth are worn, and heavy tartar buildup is likely. Some teeth may be missing.

However, keep in mind the extent of dental damage and disease will vary based on breed mix and previous lifestyle. Many rescue dogs suffer from broken or rotten teeth due to poor nutrition and past trauma.

No matter the dog’s age or breed, he should receive dental care to prevent serious problems like bone loss, infections, and organ damage. After a thorough veterinary exam and a professional cleaning (if needed), you can begin a routine of brushing with enzymatic toothpaste, giving dental treats, and even playing with tooth-cleaning toys!

The condition of the skin and coat can also give clues to a dog’s real age.

Grey hair around the muzzle, face, legs and body usually mean a dog has reached senior status. The skin also tends to lose moisture with age, resulting in dryness and a brittle-feeling coat.

In addition to promoting healthy digestion, high-quality probiotics can help improve skin and coat quality. The digestive enzymes in Pronine™ Flora 4-in-1 allow dogs to better absorb the nutrients in their food and eliminate toxins in the body, resulting in healthier skin.

To combat itching and restore your senior dog’s soft, lustrous coat, Omega fatty acids (OFAs) are a must. Omega 3-6-9 Select Chews from Project Paws® are made from sustainably-sourced krill oil to support a soft, silky coat, minimize normal shedding, and maintain the skin’s moisture content.

Take a long gaze into your dog’s eyes.

Do they appear cloudy or have a bluish film? This could indicate common signs of aging such as lenticular sclerosis (the hardening of the lenses) or cataracts. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for healthy eye maintenance. Several studies suggest they may even protect against degenerative ocular disorders such as glaucoma.

Finally, you may be able to determine a dog’s real age based on his joint health.

Older dogs often suffer from muscle wasting around their hips and shoulders. Arthritis and fluid loss in the joint spaces cause them to walk with a stiff, peg-legged gait. Some may even have trouble getting up from a laying position, climbing into the car, or managing stairs.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an Omega-3 fatty acid found in krill oil and known for its exceptional anti-inflammatory properties. It helps ease inflammatory conditions of the heart, kidneys, skin and joints – including arthritis. While OFAs are especially important for senior dogs, it’s never too early to start protecting their skin, eye, and joint health with Omega 3-6-9 Select Chews.

Another powerful product in the fight against canine arthritis is Project Paws® Advanced Hip & Joint Chews. Packed with a unique combination of anti-inflammatory ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM; these bacon-flavored treats provide improved flexibility, strengthened cartilage, and natural relief from joint distress.

For dogs with food sensitivities, try our Hypoallergenic Hip and Joint supplement. These great-tasting chews are grain-free, gluten-free and soy-free to suit almost any special diet. The powerful blend of nutrients supports normal joint function, flexibility, and healthy joint cartilage.

No matter your dog’s age, they’re only as old as they feel. So keep them feeling great!

 

H/T to BBC & Web MD Pets

The post Is My Dog A Senior? How To Determine A Dog’s Real Age appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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Since the release of our Pronine™ Flora 4-in-1 Canine Probiotic, Prebiotic, Digestive Enzyme, Herb Supplement, people have been asking whether or not they should switch their dog to that from the Project Paws® Omega 3-6-9 Select Chews to help control their dog’s allergies. While each product individually can help reduce symptoms of allergies, the products work differently and actually work best in conjunction with each other to reduce your dog’s itching and scratching.

Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation. Inflammation can cause all sorts of health problems including allergies, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and cancer. According to Dr. Angie Krause, DVM:

“Every dog should be on an omega-3 fatty acid supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help decrease inflammation and benefit organ function. For some itchy dogs, this [is] all they need to drastically improve their itch. Giving your dog omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce the amount of steroids that it will take to eliminate biting, scratching and chewing.”

Probiotics are different. 70% of all your dog’s immune cells live in his gut. Probiotics add beneficial bacteria to your dog’s gut, which can help improve his immune function. An improved immune system can better handle things like allergies. According to Marcella D. Ridgway, VMD, MS, DACVIM:

“A daily probiotic supplement may also provide some ancillary benefits for dogs such as better skin and coat appearance, a reduction in gas, improved breath, a reduction of allergy symptoms, a reduction in yeast-associated disorders, and help in regulating bowel function.”

Since Project Paws® Omega 3-6-9 Select Chews and Pronine™ Flora 4-in-1 Canine Probiotic, Prebiotic, Digestive Enzyme, Herb Supplement work differently to help control your dog’s allergy symptoms, the combination of both products should offer the optimum benefit for your fur child.

Whether you choose to use one or both products to help reduce your dog’s allergy symptoms, you should definitely consider signing up for AUTOSHIP. With AUTOSHIP, you don’t need to worry about running out of the products that help your pup live his best life. His supplements are delivered on a predetermined schedule, which you can change, pause, or cancel at any time. Plus, you’ll save 5% on each purchase by using AUTOSHIP!

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.

The post A Perfect Pairing: How Omegas & Probiotics Can Help Ease Allergies appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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A Harvard psychologist recently declared that when dogs dream they are likely reliving their experiences with their humans. Those yips and kicks we see are their reactions to either pleasing us or annoying us in dreamland.

For better or worse, our dogs’ entire lives revolve around us. If they do not get enough of our time or that time is marred by unwarranted punishments, it can leave lasting emotional scars.

Dog owners usually make one of these 5 mistakes because they simply do not understand canine behavior. It’s important to know why dogs do the things they do in order to avoid inadvertently damaging your precious relationship.

1. Rubbing Their Nose In It

Think about it, you use the bathroom during the 6 – 10 hours that you are at work, right? Chances are your dog also has to go during that time, and sometimes he or she may not be able to hold it. Once a dog is potty trained, accidents in the house can be a sign of distress, physical illness, or simply going too long without a break.

Yelling or “rubbing their nose in it” will not teach your dog to potty outside, but it will teach him to fear you and unnecessarily hurt his feelings.

2. Not Providing Enough Playtime 

It’s one thing to halfheartedly pat your pup on the head as you breeze through the door with an armload of groceries, it’s quite another to set aside designated one-on-one time. No matter how busy your life is, it’s important to prioritize time to do something your dog enjoys. Whether it’s 10 minutes of fetch, a nice evening walk or just cuddle time on the couch, a dog’s level of happiness depends on the attention they receive from their favorite humans.

3. Punishing Fearful Behavior

Cowering, raised hackles, flattened ears, tucked tails and growling are all signs that your pup is not comfortable in a particular situation. What they need at these times is to be calmly and quietly removed from the upsetting stimulus. Yelling and over-assertiveness on your part will only escalate the situation. Fearful behavior can often be mistaken for aggression in dogs and vice versa, so if this is an issue you are dealing with, contact a professional trainer.

4. Being Inconsistent With The Rules

We are probably all guilty of this from time to time. It doesn’t matter whether you have one household rule for your dog or fifty. What does matter is remaining consistent. If sleeping on the furniture is a no-no, don’t decide to let your pup snuggle on the bed while you’re sick, then punish him the next day when he hops up for a nap! The same goes for leash-pulling, begging and jumping up.

5. Segregation From The Pack

The one thing on earth that will hurt your dog more than anything else is keeping him away from his family. Remember, you are his whole world! Some owners are unable or unwilling to provide the necessary training that dogs need in order to understand what is expected of them. These misunderstood pups are labeled “bad” and isolated to a kennel or backyard – possibly even abandoned.

Dogs want to make us happy. More than treats or toys they crave our love and approval. If you are having trouble with your dog’s behavior, seek professional help from your veterinarian or an experienced dog trainer.

 

The post 5 Ways You May Be Hurting Your Dog’s Feelings Without Even Knowing It appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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What do you say when people ask you how your dog is doing? Do you shrug your shoulders and say “fine”? Or do you tell your friends and family that your dog is overjoyed, on top of the world, honest-to-goodness thriving?

 

Some people may be okay with knowing their dogs are doing “fine,” but others know that our dogs are capable of being so much more than just “fine” and won’t settle for less. How do you take your dog from fine to thrive? Start with his bowl.

NomNomNow knows that so much of your dog’s wellness depends on what you feed him. And not just his waistline – his moods, energy levels, and overall health can be so much more than “fine.”

Your industrial-sized bag of kibble may say it’s tasty and healthy, but is it? Big-bag dog food companies are notorious for taking the parts of livestock we humans wouldn’t dare eat and giving it to our dogs. Our dogs get little brown pellets and we get recall scares, dogs with food allergies and picky eaters. Let’s be honest, we look away and hold our breath when we serve it because everything about kibble – the smell, the look, even the sound in the bowl – is unappealing. Why would we ask our dogs to eat it? We can do better, and NomNomNow is here to give dog moms and dads the golden ticket to their dog’s health and wellness.

If you want your dog to be better than “fine” you need to give him more than just kibble. Give your dog food that makes him feel strong, healthy, and capable.

NomNomNow doesn’t just make dog food, they make food for your dog’s best life. Every meal is vet nutritionist formulated and made from fresh human-grade ingredients that any person would be happy to have on their plate. No more little brown pellets – NomNomNow is real meat, potatoes, carrots, and eggs. No by-products or fillers. It is feel-good food that will lift your dog’s spirits and his quality of life.

There’s no need to slave away over a hot stove or decode portion charts, because it’s all gently cooked in NomNomNow’s kitchen and pre-portioned based on your dog’s specific nutritional needs and activity levels. It’s sent right to your door – so now your dog will really have a reason to get excited when someone rings the doorbell!

Why have a happy dog when you can have a dog who’s healthy, exhilarated, and in love with the life and food you give him? Don’t settle for fine. Really let your dog shine. And thrive.

The post The Healthiest Food Will Bring Your Pet A Thriving Life appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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Pet parents want their dogs to have the healthiest, longest life possible. Every year, we learn more about how healthy eating can affect a human’s mood, energy levels, and overall health – so it makes sense that the same would apply to dog food.

NomNomNow has embarked on a journey to revolutionize pet health, starting with the #1 contributing factor to a healthy lifestyle: what they eat. Everybody knows by now how many health problems a lifetime of eating junk food can cause humans, but few people realize that many commercial dog foods are akin to junk food for people.

Commercial pet food is frequently made with human food byproducts (scary, right?!). Why do we expect our pets to thrive on the things humans refuse to eat? We live in a day and age where people have come to feel more like “parents” to their pets, and like any good parent, you want to give your baby the best you can to help them flourish.

NomNomNow understands that you want to give your dog the very best, that’s why they’re different. They understand that health is wealth, and that the same can be said for your dog. When it comes to your dog’s daily diet, NomNomNow is here to provide you with a practical method that gives your dog the best meal, every single time.

Formulated by a leading vet nutritionist using human-grade ingredients, their meals are gently cooked fresh in a kitchen right here in the United States, and carefully pre-proportioned specifically for your dog’s unique calorie needs. Once it’s been precisely configured for your precious pup, it’s then delivered directly to your front door–at the schedule of your choosing– for the ultimate in convenience. Just peel the package open and serve. Really, it’s just that simple.

According to some of NomNomNow’s customers, their dogs’ allergies and ailments went away after switching from commercial food to NomNomNow. Just ask any human who’s changed their diet from one consisting primarily of junk food to one primarily of fresh foods how much better they feel. Now, imagine what amazing results like that could do for your dog!

“Diet can play a role in helping to manage skin conditions and diseases, regardless of whether or not your dog has a food allergy…. Dog food allergy treatment boils down to one underlying principle: identify foods your dog is allergic to and avoid feeding those. — NomNomNow’s Veterinary Nutritionist, Dr. Justin Shmalberg

Fresh food is best for both humans and dogs, there’s no denying that. Now you can get fresh food to optimize your dog’s health delivered straight to your door. Because, after all, diet is directly related to living a healthy life.

Think about it: when you eat good, you feel good, and the same can be said for your dog. NomNomNow wants to help you give your dog their very best life, each and every day, starting with their food bowl.

The post Health Is Wealth, And The Same Can Be Said For Your Dog appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

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A small act of kindness is even more amazing when it happens in the middle of chaos.

Wildfires continue to wreak havoc in California and fire crews from other areas have travelled to join the effort. Firefighters from Draper City, Utah travelled over 800 miles to help fight the Mendocino Complex fire burning North of Santa Rosa, California. On August 12, while working contain the flames in the Potter Valley fire zone, the group spotted a German Shepherd huddled under a tree. The dog was extremely thirsty and tired, and the firefighters offered him water and a place to sleep under their truck while they worked.

After their shift, the men loaded up their equipment, and the dog. They drove him to the Mendocino County Animal Shelter where he would recieve medical attention and some well-earned rest. The shelter posted his photo to social media and several people immediately expressed interest in giving him a home if he wasn’t claimed by his owner. However, one of the firefighters with the Draper City Fire Department had already told the shelter that this dog had a home if his owner didn’t come forward.

“It was clear from the start, if not found by his guardian, Draper City fire fighter Patrick wanted to adopt him.”

The stray hold expired without anyone claiming the dog. The pup, named Mendo by the firefighters who rescued him, has a new home in Draper City, Utah, with Patrick and his family. On August 25th, volunteers from the shelter in Mendocino County met with Patrick in Reno, Nevada. According to a Facebook post from the Draper City FD, Mendo recognized Patrick, and was very excited to see him again!

“The dog was happy to to see Patrick he ran around in happy circles. “Mendo” we are happy to say that Draper is now your home. What a beautiful, friendly and affectionate dog.”

Mendo will be a comfort to the firefighters in Draper City who suffered the loss of one of their own to the fires in California. Battalion Chief Matt Burchett, who led the crew in their fight of the Mendocino Complex fire, did not make it home. After Mendo and Patrick were reunited, the Mendocino County Animal Shelter posted to Facebook,

“Mendo has been reunited with fire fighter Patrick who found him while battling the Mendocino Complex fires. The Draper Fire Department team from Utah lost their co-worker Matt during this fire. We know Mendo will help them heal. “

H/T: ktla.com
Featured Photo: Draper City Fire Department/Facebook

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Animal welfare groups and dog-loving politicians have been fighting for a decade to ban the use of shock collars in England. After a heated debate, they’ve finally achieved their goal.

England’s government announced this week that the law will officially change to make the use of training dogs with shock collars illegal. The ban puts England in line with the rest of the UK as Wales and Scotland have already taken steps to put an end to this form of painful, punishment-based dog training.

According to BBC, a poll taken by the Kennel Club in 2014 found 74% of people in England support the shock collar ban, but lawmakers have had to jump through hoops to make it official. A report of “insufficient evidence” slowed things down, but testimonies from dog trainers, animal behaviorists, and animal advocates have convinced the government to move forward.

An estimated 5% of dog owners in the country reportedly use shock collars on a regular basis, meaning hundreds of thousands of dog owners will be affected. Environment Secretary Michael Gove says the collars cause unnecessary “harm and suffering.” With the capability to send 100 to 6,000 volts of painful electric shock into a dog’s neck for up to 11 seconds at a time, dogs essentially learn through fear and pain. The collars are remotely activated to shock a dog in order to stop an undesirable behavior like barking and running away. The issue is, many of the people using shock collars use them incorrectly. Pain and suffering ends up worsening the underlying behavior problems and negatively affecting the dog’s confidence and trust.

Director of canine behavior and research at the Dogs Trust, Dr. Rachel Casey, told BBC,

“Scientific research has demonstrated that electronic devices which deliver an averse stimulus have a negative impact on dog welfare, so this ban will have a major positive impact for dogs in the UK.”

RSPCA also supports the ban of the controversial collars and says using pain to train a dog is unnecessary when positive reinforcement techniques are available and have been proven to work. A spokesperson for the animal welfare group also points out there are “humane and viable alternatives” to using shock collars. There are other ways of training dogs and containing pets without resorting to electric shock.

Gove called England a “nation of animal lovers,” and the ban on shock collars will be a step toward improving the welfare of pets. Next on the agenda, animal advocates are also pushing to have electric containment fences banned.

We want to know: Do you think shock collars should be banned?

h/t: BBC

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On July 15, a devastating traffic accident in Delray Beach, FL put 19-year-old Farrah Fox into a deep coma. An off-duty officer ran a stop sign and plowed into the SUV Farrah was riding in. She suffered a traumatic brain injury, and there was nothing doctors or her family could do but wait. They waited five weeks with no change in Farrah’s condition, but then a therapy dog named Fergie came to visit.

The seven-year-old Labradoodle frequently visits hospitals to spread her special breed of love to recovering patients. On August 17, Fergie went with her owner, Mary Cullinan, to spend time with Farrah. For eight hours, Fergie cuddled against Farrah’s side on the hospital bed. It’s impossible to tell if Farrah knew Fergie was there, but what happened next suggests Fergie’s comfort had a major impact on the teenager’s health.

Cullinan told Sun Sentinel that during the visit, Farrah’s hand drifted toward Fergie’s snout. It started with a twitch, and that same afternoon, Farrah finally woke up. Cullinan said,

“We don’t know if it was Fergie or just time. But Fergie was with her for eight hours that day. Farrah responds to Fergie more than she responds to people right now. She just has this connection with her.”

The University of Central Florida student has dreams of being an aerospace engineer, but right now, her family is hoping for a miracle. Farrah is still unable to speak or move, but after five weeks, her family is beyond grateful for the improvement. She spent her 19th birthday in the hospital instead of at school with friends, and now she’s starting a long road to recovery.

Farrah’s mother, Marla-Jo Fox, knows the next few months and years will be especially difficult. She said,

“No one can predict how long it will be. It could be a year or 18 months—or a lifetime. We just don’t know.”

Doctors say a 100% recovery would be a miracle, but Farrah, her family, and Fergie aren’t going to give up. Fergie has continued to visit with Farrah in the hospital, and the therapy dog is sure to be a big part of her future recovery. They’re taking it one day at a time until the day Farrah is talking, walking, and back at school.

Farrah’s friends and family have set up a GoFundMe page to help with the costs of her continuous care, and there will also be a barbecue fundraiser this Saturday at Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm in Delray Beach.

h/t: Sun Sentinel

Featured image via Facebook/Mary Cullinan

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Sometimes dogs shake with excitement upon seeing a favorite loved one. Other times their trembling is an involuntary response to environmental factors. While these causes are harmless, shaking can also be a symptom of certain genetic conditions or a sign of a serious illness.

In order to determine if your dog’s shaking is a cause for concern, you must understand the many reasons that may account for it.

Certain breeds are more prone to shaking.

Ask any Chihuahua parent and they will tell you these dogs shake. They shake when they are tired, hungry, happy, excited – you get the idea! Chihuahuas’ shaking is so common in Chihuahuas that it is rarely seen as a cause for concern. Their frequent trembling is often chalked up to cold due to their sparce haircoats and tiny size. They are also prone to anxiety.

In addition to the notoriously shaky Chihuahua, there are a handful of breeds predisposed to conditions that cause trembling. Malteses and West Highland Terriers are the most likely breeds to develop acquired tremors syndrome. The disease is so common in these “little white dogs,” it is often referred to as white dog shaker syndrome.

Shaking puppy syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the nerves of the spinal cord. Although frightening to witness, the disease tends to resolve on its own as the dog matures. It is most commonly seen in Chow Chows, Weimeraners, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Samoyeds, English Springer Spaniels, and Rat Terriers.

Just like us, dogs shake when they are cold.

Shivering is the body’s natural response to cold temperatures. It is a physiological response that mammals have no control over. When dogs shake, the rapid movements of their skeletal muscles release heat, helping to raise their core temperature. For most dogs, their fur coats and cozy homes are enough to protect them from the cold. However, short-haired breeds, dogs with low body fat, and those left outside in harsh weather may shake more.

Dogs shake in anticipation of their favorite things.

Dogs are happy creatures that rejoice in life’s simple pleasures. The sight of their leash or the crinkle of a fresh bag of treats can cause them to quiver with anticipation. Pups with strong work/prey drives tend to be most prone to this type of trembling. Thankfully, anticipatory shaking is harmless unless it causes your dog to act out in negative ways.

Many dogs shake as a result of fear or anxiety.

Dogs have the same “fight or flight” response that causes humans to shake with fear. When they are scared, the body releases the hormone adrenalin. It sharpens their senses and prepares them to survive a stressful encounter.

Fearful shaking is not always rational, especially in dogs suffering from phobias and anxiety disorders. For example, the vacuum cleaner terrifies some pups. Others tremble at the sight of harmless objects like skateboards. It takes time and patience, but dogs can overcome their fears.

Unexplained shaking could be a sign of pain.

As dogs age they experience muscle wasting and sore joints. It is not uncommon for senior dogs to shake as a result of pain or weakness, especially in the hind end. Dogs suffering from painful medical conditions such as pancreatitis may also tremble due to the same stress reaction discussed above. If your dog is experiencing unexplained trembling and/or showing additional signs of pain or illness, contact your vet.

Certain serious illnesses cause shaking.

Below are several serious medical issues that may cause shaking.

• Exposure to toxins – Some poisons can affect the nervous system causing involuntary tremors. Others cause extreme pain and nausea which may also cause dogs to shake.
• Kidney disease – Dogs with advanced renal failure may suffer from seizures, tremoring and shaking.
• Addisons disease – During an Addisonian crisis, the adrenal glands no longer produce the hormones necessary to deal with stress which can cause “the shakes.”
• Canine Distemper – This life-threatening virus can infect the brain, causing shaking and seizures. A simple vaccination series can prevent distemper.
• Hypoglycemia – Low blood sugar is most common in puppies and tiny dogs. It can cause dizziness, stumbling and shaking.
• Unbalanced electrolytes – Sodium, calcium and chloride are the major electrolytes in the body. If they are off balance, a dog may feel ill, shaky or weak.
• Epilepsy and conditions affecting the cerebellum – Most people picture the dramatic, flailing grand mal variety, but seizures can be much more subtle. Cerebellar degeneration or injuries to the cerebellum are also known to cause neurological symptoms such as shaking or tremors.

If your dog is experiencing new, unexplained shaking that recurs or does not resolve, see your veterinarian promptly.

 

H/T to Web MD Pets & Pet MD

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