All About Dogs

If you have a dog then a good dog fence will make for better neighbors. Believe it or not, not everyone likes your family pet. By keeping your pet in an identified space with a good quality dog fence, Fido can remain as a good neighbor.

I know, I know, it's almost impossible to imagine that anyone who knows Fido doesn't immediately fall in love with him or her. She might just be ok with the neighbors but the things she does in their yard make for some unhappy relationships. This is just one of the main reasons why every pet owner has an obligation to control their pets traveling range with pet fencing.

The problem of course is the about relieving themselves in someone else's yard, Yes, your pet may be friendly and would like to visit the neighbors but the fact is, many people do not share your love affair with your pet. They don't want the bother of picking up after an animal that's not theirs nor having their yards soiled with urine "hot spots" and doggie piles.

Dogs, although usually very friendly also can be destructive of plants and landscaping, making many breeds poor neighbors.

That's not to say that your dog isn't a nice animal. Dogs are typically social and enjoys the interaction with a variety of people. This play interaction however is not without consequences. Things get broken, chewed on and otherwise "enjoyed" by your pet no matter if they belong to you or the neighbor. Having to face an angry neighbor because your dog destroyed his prize winning rose bush garden isn't something to be desired.

There's also the issue of community security. This is especially true if your dog is a larger breed. Having a large dog escape the security of their yard could be seen as negligence on your part. Communities are becoming increasingly upset at pet owners who allow their animals free run of a neighborhood. Heaven forbid if your dog, while free, attacks someone or another animal. This is especially serious if the other dog or pet was on a leash.

The saying is that a good fence makes for good neighbors. A good dog fence also makes for a happy and healthy environment for your pet. By securing your dog using secure fencing, your best friend also has the security of knowing where his yard boundaries are located. There is no need to "guard" anything beyond the fence lines so you pet is more inclined to stay in his yard to better "watch" his property.

Overall, electronic dog fencing (innoteck dog fence, which is also known as an invisible fence) is a good investment no matter what type of dog you may have as a pet. You can also get a chain fence or a good wood fence that goes right to the ground, just watch out for the diggers.

A dogs golden years are very special and short compared to ours. A dogs life span is anywhere from 9 years to 13-15 years depending on the size and breed of dog. With appropriate care most dogs live complete and happy lives. Unfortunately, an adored pet never seems to live long enough.

While taking care of your aging dog you need to adapt his environment for his comfort. As dogs get older, they develop aches, joint pain, generalized weakness and an almost definite increase in medical problems just as we do. Adjust his surroundings to minimize discomfort. Protect him from excessive heat and cold. Older dogs are unable to regulate body temperature as a younger dog.

Try to give your dog regular exercise. Make sure your dogs health matches his exercise routine. If your dog exhibits signs of heavy panting or opposes exercise you need to change his routine.

Adapt his diet and feeding schedule to his needs. As dogs age they are less active and need fewer calories. Prescription diets are available, discuss special diets with your veterinarian. Also if they just need a low fat diet there are many out there that you can try. Alway remember to check with your vet to make sure that the type of diet food you buy is appropriate for your dog.

Older dogs can experience hearing loss and declining eyesight. Accommodate for his safety. If your dog is losing his hearing try re-training him with sign language with the verbal command he already knows. If you've trained your dog as a puppy or even as an adult try including sign language as part of their training. If your dog is starting to lose their eyesight remember that just like people who are blind you should not move the furniture around as they are use to having it in that place. The same would be for their bed and food.

Senior dogs require special dental care. They are more likely to develop gum problems and disease. Complete dental cleaning should be performed by your vet every six months which does require anesthesia. You might have to start brushing their teeth if you don't do that already. Some people like to brush their dogs teeth. Also make sure complete bloodwork is performed to be aware of any problems that might arise.

Older dogs need extra bathing and grooming. Dry skin can be a normal part of aging or it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. They also require more frequent nail trimming. Take into consideration his age in human years. If he is 13 in dog years, he may suffer the same aging ailments as a 75 year old human. Continue with bi-annual vet exams. Senior dogs need extra care with their aging problems.

Enjoy your dogs gift of love and support and look after him. He deserves the best you can give him. Give his life quality! Keep those memories alive!

When you are comparing the quote of one health insurance quote to another remember that the base dollar amount is not the only number you have to consider. In addition to the monthly payment make sure you also check out exactly what type of veterinary care and treatments are covered (some basic insurance plans do not include cancer treatment), what kind of deductible you, the pet owner, will be expected to pay. Is there a yearly cap on medical expenses? You also might want to find out what type of discounts are available.

At the moment there are only a handful of companies that offer pet health insurance although there are more and more out there than there used to be. Five of the most popular companies are:

Pets Best Pet Insurance

An insurance plan through Pets Best Insurance pet insurance plans allow you to choose any licensed veterinarian and reimburse 80% of each vet bill after a deductible. Pets Best will cover pet sterilization provided the pet owner purchases an additional wellness plan. Pets Best does not cover pre-existing medical conditions a pet has so its best to insure them early in life before problems develop. Multiple pet discounts are available. Pet’s Best pet health insurance does cover cancer.

Veterinary Pet Insurance

Veterinary Pet Insurance policies help pay for medical problems and conditions related to accidental injuries, poisonings and illnesses (including cancer). They also cover such things as diagnostic tests, x-rays, treatments, prescriptions, office calls, lab fees, surgeries and hospitalization. Veterinary Pet Insurance does not accept pre-existing conditions and does not offer multi-pet discounts.

ShelterCare

ShelterCare is a pet insurance coverage is a great way to protect your best friend against illnesses and accidents that curious dogs suffer from. ShelterCare is there to meet the unique needs of your newly adopted pet. They offer coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and accidents, no waiting period for accidents, and their policies are easy to upgrade from their basic to the forever and to their preferred programs.

PurinaCare

Purina has spent many years (over 80) in research and innovation to put the most excellent care for your pet. They don't just make food, they also have insurance for your pet. PurinaCare provide benefits for vaccinations, dental cleanings, spaying/neutering and flea and heartworm preventive (Premium plan only). They cover treatments for accident and illness (Preferred and Premium plans) including diagnostic tests and medication, and also hereditary conditions.

PetCare

With the rising costs of veterinary bills, pet insurance is no longer an option it has become a necessity. Routine exams, common injuries and illnesses can be expensive. PetCare offers unlimited lifetime accident coverage and coverage for hereditary conditions. With PetCare Pet Insurance you are one step closer to receiving peace of mind for you and your pet.

Any one or all of these companies can change their policies between now and the time you purchase a pet health insurance plan. Remember to read the fine print before you sign up for a pet health insurance plan.

All five of these pet health insurance companies have their own websites where you can go to get up to date pet health insurance quotes. There are other pet health insurance companies with different prices, discounts, stipulations, and benefit caps if you are not content with the previous five comparisons.

One of the toughest jobs that a family faces when a new puppy comes home is getting the dog housebroken. This means that the dog will eliminate outdoors and not use your home and furnishings as a toilet. Lots of people think that getting doggy toilet trained is a tough task, but it doesn’t need to be. If you arm yourself with plenty of information for the best ways to get your dog house trained, you are on the right path to having a dog that goes to the bathroom where you want him to go.

When to House Train

A dog can be toilet trained at any age, but the best age to begin is between eight and twelve weeks old. If you set up a housebreaking routine as soon as you bring your puppy home, before long he will get the right idea of where to do his business. A crate is a great tool for toilet training a puppy. It keeps him confined when there is no supervision and most dogs learn quickly that if they make in their crate they will have to sit in it. Most dogs are fairly hygienic and won’t enjoy having to sit in dog doody or urine.

The Advantages of Using a Crate

Be sure there is enough room in the crate for your pup to turn around, but don't leave so much room that he will be able to eliminate and lie down far away from it. Many dog owners view a crate as a jail cell or to use as punishment, but your dog will love having his own space where he can escape from the hustle and bustle of the household for some quiet time.

Make your dogs crate a happy place and don’t use it for punishment. You can feed your dog in the crate, or while he is in there, offer him some treats. Place a favorite chewy or toy in there with him, add blankets and he will have a cozy den to escape to whenever he feels the need. Utilizing a crate for your dog can keep him out of trouble and not only in housebreaking.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled

Keeping a close eye on your puppy is a key factor in getting him properly housetrained. Whenever you see that he is sniffing, circling or beginning to squat, immediately take him outside to the place where you want him to go and see if he eliminates. If he does, praise him lavishly. A good idea is to have a cue, such as “hurry up” so that your puppy knows what you want him to do. When he is going to the bathroom repeat the cue and then give your dog lots of praise for a job well done. It is better to take the dog out and nothing happens then take a chance of an accident happening.

Have a Schedule

Feeding, watering and walking your dog on a regular schedule will make housebreaking that much easier. Puppies are like children and they thrive on a routine. Try and take the dog out around the same time everyday so they will be able to adjust their bodily functions. The first thing you should do in the morning is take the puppy from the crate and don’t let his feet touch the ground. Bring him to the place where you want him to go, give the cue, and praise upon a successful completion. Take your puppy out at least every two hours, after eating or drinking and especially after play. Before you know it, your puppy will be letting you know it is time to go out and do his business.

Don't Let the Puppy Roam

Letting your puppy roam around the house is a sure fire way to have accidents. If you have decided you don't want to use a crate, and even if you do use one, confining the dog to certain areas of the house can make housetraining easier for everyone. It is difficult to keep track of a puppy when he has the run of the house, but if you gate him in the kitchen, he will still be able to be part of the action and can be better supervised in case of an accident.

Don’t Get Discouraged

There will be times when you first begin housetraining that you feel your pup is just not getting it. He may have accidents in the house on occasion. There is no need to be discouraged. If you stick to your routine, keep a good eye on the dog and make frequent outings to his outdoor bathroom, in no time your puppy will be housebroken.

Another good idea is to use the same door all the time when you are taking him out so that when he has to go, he will scratch on the door to be let out. Once this happens, you can say hurray and know that your puppy truly is beginning to understand that going to the bathroom in the house is a no-no.

You are eager to get a good breed dog, but you don't know where to look. There is nothing wrong with wanting a pure breed dog. It is however, very important that you get your dog from a responsible and good dog breeder. All breed dogs have standard characteristics and a good breeder ensures that these characteristics are maintained in their dogs. A good dog breeder will ensure that their dogs have the best characteristics of that particular breed. In order to find the right breed dog for you, you would first have to find a good and a reputable breeder.

Finding A Good Dog Breeder

Local breed clubs are a good place to start with. You can find their contact information on the AKC/CKC (American Kennel Club/Canadian Kennel Club) web site, internet, magazines, etc. These are the ones to look for in North America. Each country has their own Kennel Club. If you are looking for a particular breed, you should spell its name right so that you get the right results.

You can also contact the breed registry to find a good dog breeder. You can start by looking at the AKC web site if the dog is an AKC breed. The national breed club can also give you names of breeders.

Talk to friends, colleagues, or other people who have the breed you want. Ask them about the dog, and how their experience with that dog has been. Also enquire if they are happy with the breeder or not. Your veterinarian can also give you a list of good breeders. Veterinarians have a pretty good idea about who the good breeders are in your area.

Dog events are good place to find them. Visit places where people with dogs go, like dog parks, veterinarians, pet supply stores, etc. Talk to people and enquire about breeders. You can also join some internet discussion forums, like Yahoo groups, Google, etc. You will meet some good breeders this way. Before you get into discussion groups, you should be pretty knowledgeable about dogs. A good breeder will judge you based on the types of questions you ask and how you respond to their queries. Therefore, it is better to be prepared. You do not want to come out looking like a person who does not know much about dogs.

You can also look into newspapers, though they are not such a good source. Chances of finding a good breeder through newspapers are low, but you can still try your luck by doing a little research on the breeder listed that you are interested in. If you have done your research well, you will be able to identify a good breeder.

Good dog breeders are concerned about the future of their puppies that they bring into this world. Individual breed clubs are a good place to find a good dog breeder. A good breeder plays a very important role in the life of dog; therefore, by choosing a good breeder you are ensuring a happy and fulfilling life for your dog.

There are several reasons why small dogs are hypoallergenic. Since they are small, many breeds cannot climb on the couch, bed, or other furniture. With fewer allergens on the furniture, you will not be as affected by them. Small dogs want to have their own space. They will sleep in a dog bed or blanket that you should wash often. Keeping small dogs in a crate during the day while you are gone will make them feel safer and also prevent them from destroying your home. This will also reduce allergens from getting into the carpets and on the walls.

Small dogs usually have shorter hair or they have hair that is long and thin. This hair does not seem to cause as many problems to those with dog allergies. Their hair is easy to take care of and does not shed as often as other breeds. While you will have to take these dogs to be groomed more often, you should be able to breathe easily around them. Since the dogs do not shed as often, less dander is present in carpeting and on walls as well. Most small dog breeds do not produce a lot of saliva. Saliva can also cause people to have allergy attacks. This is because of bacteria that are found in the saliva.

When you are looking for a small dog, you should find a breed that fits your lifestyle. This will allow you to build a trusting relationship that will last a long time. Small dogs enjoy being with their owners and do not like being apart. As long as the dog is in the same room with you, it will be fine. If you do not feel you can build this trust, then you should find another breed of hypoallergenic dog. Not all breeds are small. There are a few medium breeds that do not need as much one on one time.

While all dogs need to get their exercise, small dogs do not need as much. Small dogs cannot go for long walks, but they can go for short ones in places that they know and feel comfortable in. Trips to the park or walking around the neighborhood are good exercise for the dog. Small dogs are very playful and enjoy playing games at home. Since some breeds do not have undercoats, they will need small sweaters when the weather gets cold. You should not leave small breeds outside in the cold for too long as their coats will not protect them.

If you live in a small apartment or home, a small dog will be better for you. Some breeds do not bark too much and since they don’t require much exercise, living in an apartment will not inhibit them in any way. Small dogs are wonderful companions for those who suffer from allergies or those who don’t. You should research the breeds you are interested in before buying one so that you will know how to train, discipline, and show your new dog affection.

General. Fractures are the result of injury to the normally firm skeletal tissue—bone. Fractures may be of three main types:

1. Simple fracture. The bone is broken in one place and there is little displacement (i.e., little disrupture of surrounding tissues, and the broken ends remain fairly close together).

2. Multiple fractures—the bone is fractured in more than one place.

3. Compound fracture—the fracture involves gross displacement or damage to surrounding tissues, the broken ends are not in alignment and may even be protruding through the skin.

It will be seen that the compound fracture is by far the most serious. Not only is there displacement of the broken ends but if the skin is broken the bone tissue may be contaminated by dirt and bacteria.

It should always be remembered that a fracture, or a suspected fracture, should be attended to by a veterinary surgeon as promptly as possible. Some fractures (e.g., those affecting ribs, joints, and deep tissues like the pelvis) can be diagnosed only by examining the injured area by X-rays. With these aids to diagnosis the treatment can be carried out more accurately, and the owner given a better idea of the final outcome.

Whilst doctors have the advantage of being able to order a patient with a fractured pelvis to lie on his back in a plaster cast for two or three months the veterinary surgeon must adapt his treatment to his less co-operative, but frequently more sensible, patient.

Therefore we find that, in the wide field of fractures, anaesthetics, either local or general, are extensively used. We find that new techniques have been evolved to "fix" the broken bones in position, such as bone-pinning and the Stader splint. In addition, in compound fractures where there has been damage to, and possible infection of, the bone tissue itself antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin are widely used. Some fractures, typically those of certain parts of the pelvis, are impossible to splint or pin and these may therefore heal only with enforced rest and time, and certain special aids.

First-aid in cases of fractures can be important indeed, and if carried out properly it may prevent a simple fracture becoming a compound one. Common sense and a little knowledge can also prevent or lessen the extent of infection in cases of compound fracture.

First-aid measures are:

1 Simple fracture & 2 multiple fractures

The first requirement in a fracture case is to give support to the injured limb. This will prevent displacement of the broken ends, aid subsequent healing, limit shock, pain, and haemorrhage. To attain this end, the limb should be fixed or supported in as near the natural alignment or position as is possible. Simple fractures are commonest in the long bones, i.e., the main bones of the limbs, and the best support is given by splints. Frequently these must of necessity be simple as available materials may be crude and inadequate.

There are as many ways to raise a puppy as there are to raising a child. In fact, one way per family in general! But most of us agree that when it comes to children, certain things are universal and undisputed. Here are three things that a lot of people just do not think of when it comes to raising their dogs, however. How many times have we heard, "My dog just won't listen to me", or "He just won't behave!"

1. Dogs do not understand English until we teach them.

The thing we all love about puppies the most is the way they live for us, the way they focus all they have on us, the way our lives become theirs. in the beginning, they study us to learn our body language, our facial expressions and our language. Until we teach them the English language, it's all they have. If we say, "Wanna go out?" one day, "Have to go potty?" the next day, and, "Hafta pee?" the third day, if they DO figure out what we want, it is because we have picked up the leash and moved toward the door with a happy face! If you want to speed up his training by three-fold, teach him YOUR language. Pick a command for EACH behavior and stick with it. Tell all in your family to use the same words and commands, and your puppy will amaze you at how much faster he learns.

2. A young puppy's metabolism is racing along faster than we think.

The younger your puppy is, the faster he is growing, the more food and water he needs to fuel his metabolism, and the more often he has to go potty. Do not punish your puppy when he makes a house-breaking mistake. These are YOUR fault. Your puppy's age in weeks and his breed size determine how often he must go out. Once an hour is not too often for a large 6-week old puppy, especially if it is summertime. Dogs love the exciting smells outdoors, so there is no excuse to not have him housebroken by 7-8 weeks of age. Right after a nap, after he eats and after grooming are the key times, and he will signal you. If he is happily chewing a toy and gets up suddenly with his nose to the floor, move quickly! And every time he goes potty outside, praise him to high heaven! "What a good BOYY!", "GOOD go potty!" and the like. Dogs love our happy faces, and they will do anything to get it.

3. Dogs live for our facial expressions and body language.

Because of this, the worst punishment you ever need to give your dog is a scowl and to turn away from him. You can see his tail fall down and his face get so sad. He will learn the lesson, I guarantee it. But his attention span is only 3-5 minutes, so do not scorn him any longer. Love him up and give him your happy face again. Physical punishment is never necessary. Use consistent commands and loving praise and he will know what you want of him before you know. He will become a master of your body language and facial expressions in no time at all.

Naturally there are many aspects of training your puppy well. Loving kindness works just as well for puppies as it does with children, creating a happy, well-adjusted and obedient dog for life. These three important tips, used consistently with confidence, will start him well on his way.

If you suffer from allergies, you are not alone. Even though most people suffer from some type of allergy, whether it is food, plant, or pet, they can usually find a way to enjoy their lives, which in many cases, includes having a few pets. Depending on the severity of your allergies, you will be able to bring a dog into your home as long as you take the time to find the breed that is right for you.

Hypoallergenic dogs are specific breeds that shed less hair and dander than other dogs, and produce fewer allergens in their saliva and urine. You should keep in mind that all breeds carry a certain amount of allergens, but hypoallergenic dogs carry less. Allergens can become stuck in carpets, on walls, and in bedding and clothing. This is why people have allergic reactions to their pets. In order to have pets, these allergens must be removed through frequent house cleaning, designating certain spots in the house for your pets to sleep, and by finding pets that have shorter hair and do not shed their skin cells as often.

When looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you should research breeds that have short hair, shed their skin cells (dander) every few weeks rather then every few days, and do not product as much saliva. Since allergies can occur at different times during your life, you should spend some time with the breed of dog you are thinking of adopting. Visiting a dog breeder or a friend who has a dog will give you a better idea of which dog to adopt.

You should also consider your current living conditions. If you live in a small house or apartment, you may experience more allergy attacks because the dander and hair is confined to a small space. Adopting a small hypoallergenic dog is the best way to remedy this problem. If you live in a larger home, you should be able to purchase a larger dog. Letting the dog outside to run in the yard or by taking it for frequent walks will also help because your dog will be able to shed outside instead of inside on your carpeting and bedding.

Once you bring your new dog home, you should give it a few weeks for your body to adjust. Your allergies may become worse before they get better, but after a month, you should see a difference. A hypoallergenic dog does not need any special care unless the breeder has specific health advice about the breed you are buying.

Taking of your home by cleaning often and invest in a quality vacuum that will thoroughly clean your carpeting. If possible, you should replace your carpeting with hardwood flooring. This will keep allergens from piling up and causing an allergy attack. Wipe down the walls once a week and try to keep your new pet off your bed. These precautions will help reduce allergy attacks and help you have a fun, loving relationship with your dog for many years to come.

Those of you who want a Golden Retriever but aren't ready to go through the trials and tribulations of a puppy, should look into adopting an older Golden. Older Golden Retrievers are mature, and prove to be great in homes where they need to spend a quality amount of time by themselves. They are a very adjustable breed, being good tempered. No matter how old the Golden may be, he will quickly become a valued member of your family in little to no time at all.

Many times, breeders will have older dogs for sale. There are several reasons for this, which include show dogs that have lost their potential, studs that have been used for breeding, female Golden's that have been bred a few times then retired, or other types of special conditions where a breeder is helping a friend get rid of his Golden Retriever. There are other reasons as well, although whatever they may be - the adult Golden Retriever will be available for anyone who wants him.

Most older Golden Retrievers are already housebroken, and known a lot of behavior patterns and how to adapt to a new and loving family. Although it will be a little hard on your new dog at first, if you give him plenty of love, attention, and patience, he'll be just fine. You need to keep reassuring your new Golden on a regular basis, and let him know that you are his new owner and that you love you and you are glad he's a member of your family.

If you have been thinking of adopting an older Golden Retriever, you should make sure that you learn everything you can about him. You should also determine his temperament, and whether or not it's compatible with your family. You should also learn important things as well, such as his diet, likes, dislikes, daily routine, and his habits. Before you decide to take him, you should always make sure that the members of your family meet him as well, so you can talk it over and decide whether or not everyone wants the dog to be a member of your family.

With an older dog, you need to take care of him for the first days, and let him know where everything in your home is. You'll need to show him where he sleeps, where he should use the bathroom, and where his food is. Take your time and be patient with him, as will normally take him a few days to learn how things in your home work.

You should always give your new Golden Retriever at least a month or so to get used to his new environment, before you start his new obedience training. Even though your new dog may have some prior obedience training, you should still enroll him in a new class. This way, he can brush up on training and you can work with him to help him understand. Once you have finished training, he'll understand your commands better and you and him will get along just fine.

All Golden Retrievers, regardless of their age, love attention. Older Golden's on the other hand, may have medical problems that you aren't aware of. You shouldn't let this stop you from getting one though, simply because the rewards that you'll find are far greater than any cons that may come to mind. Although many people don't give a lot of thought to getting an older Golden Retriever - they are perfect for families who don't want to put up the time and troubles of raising a puppy.

Mastitis, or inflammation of a milk gland, is usually seen in bitches in milk. Therefore this condition arises in bitches which have recently whelped or, less commonly, in those which have had a false or "phantom" pregnancy (i.e., all the changes of pregnancy have occurred but no puppies have been produced). In cases of mastitis the milk gland or glands affected are hot, hard and tense, being painful to the touch, and the milk secretion is discoloured.

The condition may mature quite rapidly-in 12 or 24 hours-so it is important that expert attention be given as soon as possible. The temperature of the animal usually reaches 103-105°F., and the bitch shows signs of pain, refuses food and develops an excessive thirst. There may or may not be vomiting, and pain sometimes causes the bitch to snap at her young if they attempt to feed from the affected gland.

Before skilled help arrives steps can be taken to prevent the condition becoming worse. The gland should be well fomented with warm water or warm olive oil, and any secretions gently milked out by a gentle squeezing with finger and thumb towards the teat. This can be repeated every hour. The procedure greatly helps to relieve the local congestion and prevent any further absorption of poisons from the gland.

This condition should not be confused with that of mammary tumour, which shows itself as a swelling in one or more of the milk glands, usually in the bitch when not in milk. The swelling is usually painless, hard, and localised to a portion of a gland. The temperature remains normal and the bitch's general health is unchanged. Professional advice should be sought in such cases but great urgency is not present.

The prevention of mastitis. This inflammation of the mammary glands in the bitch, which arises from various causes, is sometimes avoidable. The most important cause is injury from the puppies or from some other source, or an accumulation of milk in one gland due to it having been neglected for some reason by the offspring.

It is a good plan to cut the points of the puppies' nails from ten days of age onwards about once a week; these grow at astonishing speed and can lacerate the glands.

Pekinese and other low-to-the-ground bitches should have the top of the whelping box very smooth otherwise injuries can be caused when getting in and out.

An accumulation of milk can be prevented by feeling all the glands regularly, making sure they are soft and pliable, and encouraging the puppies to suck from all the teats. If a gland begins to feel full and hard the milk must be drawn off by hand several times a day until the gland is soft. Vaseline or olive oil will help to keep it in a supple condition. Any hardness or fullness is often the preliminary to mastitis which, like all local inflammatory conditions, shows the classic signs of heat, pain and swelling. Mastitis is usually preventable and should not occur if a bitch is properly cared for by an observant owner.

Mastitis is sometimes found in bitches who have lost all their litter and have plenty of milk. Such cases are more difficult to prevent and if it is possible to use the bitch as a foster, this should be done. A bitch deprived of her puppies can become ill with misery, quite apart from discomfort from her milk. If this is impossible to remedy, the bitch must be returned to normal as quickly as possible by giving her very dry food and mostly biscuit (not meat), Epsom salts internally, and by careful observation of her glands. They should not be touched, if touching is avoidable, as massage increases the supply of milk.

Sometimes treatment with an oestrogen becomes necessary, and sedatives are often required. The owner must be very watchful and call in veterinary assistance immediately if the bitch seems restless, distressed and anxious, and if she is feverish or shows symptoms of mastitis.

© 2008 Teri Champigny. All Rights Reserved.

Some people will cross roads, scoop up their small children, roll-up car windows and even scream and run away. Such is the price for having a big black dog. It can be the friendliest dog in the world an it wouldn't matter.

According to animal shelter officials, big black dogs have a very hard time finding a loving home. Shelters even have a name for such a phenomenon: Big Black Dog Syndrome.

According to the Humane Society and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, there are no real statistics to back this. They only have what the shelters have on their records for the size, the color or the breeds of just what dogs are adopted out or put down. Breeds such as Labs, Shepherd mixes, Pit Bull mixes and Rottwellers usually fall under this type of dog.

Big black dogs are usually depicted in the movies as mean and ferocious. Also it is this type of dog used for guard work. If there is a "Beware of Dog" sign, there is usually a big black dog on the scene.

If a dog has a black face and dark/black eyes it is hard to read the dogs face. People tend to be wary of big dogs and even more so if they are dark in color or black.

It is natural for humans to be scared of a dark animal. It goes back to our beginnings when man was more vulnerable to our surroundings. We are more civilized but some fears still reside deep down.

Most big black dogs are very well tempered and friendly. They need love and affection just as much as any other animal. Help a big black dog and you'll have a best friend for life.