Cow Hug Therapy 

How The Animals at the Gentle Barn Taught Me about Life, Death, and Everything In Between. 

Autographed copy of the inspirational story of the compassionate and wise animals of the Gentle Barn and how they became a therapeutic salve for countless guests — and mentors for all of us in how to live and die

In Cow Hug Therapy, Ellie Laks, founder of the Gentle Barn Foundation, shares the extraordinary journey that started with her first teacher, Buddha — not the religious figure, but a rescued miniature Hereford cow. One evening Buddha wrapped her neck around an exhausted and upset Laks and transferred a singular form of healing and comfort with an incredible impact. Understanding that this was something to be shared with others, Laks developed Cow Hug Therapy, a groundbreaking approach to emotional healing that has proved effective for trauma, illness, disabilities, addiction, grief, and stress.

Cow Hug Therapy is a colorful and compelling narrative of the healing mavens of the barnyard through the years and their individual stories of being rescued from trauma and treated with love and respect. These animals have transformed lives and ignited breakthroughs, newfound purpose, and freedom, including for a young mother who lost her baby, a suicidal teenager, a wounded serviceman, an open-heart surgery patient, and many more.

Media outlets including ABC’s Good Morning America, NBC’s TODAY show, and The Atlantic magazine have featured numerous stories of the hopeless beginning to thrive at the Gentle Barn. A testament to empathy and the mission to heal animals, people, and the planet, Cow Hug Therapy captures a remarkable journey of transformation and serves as a beacon of hope for all seeking healing and connection.

https://store.gentlebarn.org/products/autographed-copy-of-cow-hug-therapy-how-the-animals-at-the-gentle-barn-taught-me-about-life-death-and-everything-in-between

Make sure you buy this amazing book! 

“Putting animals and people together in a way that is healing for both” is the core mission of Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue. Through the Animal Assisted Therapy Program, we believe we can create an impact that echoes in the lives of our clients far beyond the boundaries of the rescue.

Please visit https://www.shepherdsrestrescue.com

Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these aren’t the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws. To help prevent cold weather dangers from affecting your pet’s health, check out our top 10 cold weather safety tips from our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). 

1. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. If left outdoors, pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. In addition, don’t leave pets alone in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death.
2. Keep your home humidified and be sure to towel dry your pet as soon as they come inside. Repeatedly going into the cold and then comin back into a warm home can cause itchy, flaking skin. Pay close attention to their feet and in-between their toes and remove any snow balls from between their foot pads to prevent and treat skin irritation in the winter. 
3. Massage petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads before going outside to protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties can provide even more coverage and can also prevent sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes and causing irritation. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible.
4. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. A longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, simply trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin, and don’t neglect the hair between their toes. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.
5. After each walk, make sure to wash and dry your pet's feet and stomach to remove ice, salt and chemicals. Don't forget to check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. You may also want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. 
6. Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse.
7. Thoroughly clean up any anitfreeze spills. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals like ice melts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals up and out of paws' reach.  
8. Feed your pet a little extra in the winter months. Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime. Feeding them a little bit more can provide much-needed calories, and making sure they have plenty of water to drink will help keep them well-hydrated and their skin less dry.
9. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.
10. Never let your dog off leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag. 

Be sure to keep these tips top of mind this winter so that you and your furry friends can stay warm, cozy and safe. 

Indy & Olly’s is a for-purpose dog bandana company that helps dogs in animal rescues and shelters get adopted by improving pet adoption photos…because dogs look #betterwithbandanas. Today we learn about the new holiday styles avaialbe for your dog. 

Indy & Olly’s got its start in 2019 out of Evergreen, Colorado, when our founder decided it was time to honor two of her favorite dogs with a business that gives back. Indy & Olly’s—the company—has several goals - 

• Help homeless dogs find homes

• Be a platform for promoting dog adoptions, spreading the spay & neuter message and keeping dogs out of shelters.

• Care for the earth and its inhabitants in all we do.

​​

Visit https://www.indyollys.com/

Visit https://yourenergyhealer.com/ to sign up for the webinars

I’ve always been a good listener. However, twenty years ago, I would have found it hilarious if you told me that I’d be working as an intuitive energy healer while living on an alpaca farm! But, here I am with a herd of 24 alpacas, 3 dogs and 3 cats working as a Medical Intuitive! I believe that the sum of our life experiences can lead us to our true calling in life. There are many paths to finding our way to our authentic selves.

It took many years, multiple and diverse career paths, and tough life challenges to finding my true calling. The life lessons were invaluable that led me to this meaningful life. I learned about frequencies and Radars while working as an Engineer for the Navy and now I am a Radar! I learned all about stress and how harmful it is to our body, mind and spirit while being my mom’s caregiver through her final years. And there was an amazing gift I created out of the house fire I experienced due to an arsonist. Losing my belongings led me to discovering myself. And I found the courage to embrace and pursue my calling of intuitive energy work. It is an honor and humbles me to do this work for people and their animals.

I love sharing my intuitive abilities with both animals and humans. I look forward to helping you restore your energy balance so you can live an abundantly joy filled life!

Everybody gets old, including your dog. That adorable little pup that grew into your constant companion may be showing signs of getting old, both physical and mental. Different breeds and sizes of dog age at different rates. A large breed like a Great Dane is considered senior at around six years old. A small dog, like a Chihuahua, for example, may not be considered old until she is seven to ten years old. The more tuned-in you are to the typical signs, the sooner you can help your dog age gracefully.

• Cloudy eyes or difficulty seeing: Eye cloudiness (nuclear sclerosis) can happen so gradually that you might not notice it right away. While it’s a fairly common occurrence in senior dogs and doesn’t affect vision, it may also be a sign of cataracts or other eye diseases, most of which are easily treatable. Your dog may also start bumping into things or have trouble locating a toy on the floor or other familiar objects. This could signal vision loss.
• Horrible breath: While doggie breath isn’t uncommon at any age, if your dog seems to suddenly have awful breath, it could indicate gum disease, tooth decay, or infection. The immune system weakens as dogs age and they are not able to fight off infections as easily as they did when they were younger. Along with a good dental cleaning, your vet may decide to do blood work to rule out infection.
• Slowing down or difficulty getting around:  An older dog may have trouble with stairs, jumping into the car, or just getting up after a nap. You might notice weakness in her back legs. While we all slow down as we age, your dog’s mobility issues could be caused by arthritis or another degenerative disease. Along with any medication or supplements your vet recommends, you will have to adjust your dog’s exercise regimen to slower and shorter walks or a new exercise routine. Swimming, for example, is gentle on the body and many dogs love it.
• New lumps and bumps: Some dogs are prone to harmless fatty lipomas, but these lumps under the skin are more common as dogs age. However, any new lump should be checked by a veterinarian to rule out a malignant tumor.
• A change in weight: It’s not surprising that older, less active dogs sometimes gain weight and you may have to adjust your dog’s diet and exercise to maintain a healthy weight. However, you should also pay attention if your senior dog loses weight. This could be the result of reduced muscle mass, which is common in older dogs, or it might be caused by reduced appetite, poor absorption of nutrients, or a digestive illness. If your dog loses more than 10 percent of her body weight in a few months, or even in a year, consult your vet.
• Incontinence or difficulty “going:” If your dog suddenly seems to forget his housetraining or seems to strain when urinating, these could be signs of a urinary tract infection or kidney disease.  However, incontinence is not unusual in elderly dogs and there are medications that can help.

Physical changes aren’t the only differences you may notice in your dog as he ages. Changes in behavior can signal an underlying physical problem or may be a normal sign of aging. For example, if your sweet pup has suddenly turned into Grumpy, she may be in pain caused by arthritis or be experiencing some other physical discomfort. Or your high-energy companion may be sleeping hours a day. Older dogs need more sleep, just let him nap.

However, changes in behavior may also be the result of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS). According to a study at the National Center for Biotechnology Information, CCDS affects 14-35 percent of dogs over eight years old. A dementia similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, CCDS can bring about pronounced changes in your dog’s everyday behavior:

• Fear of familiar people or objects.
• Changes in the sleeping-waking cycle, including restlessness or pacing at night.
• Increased barking and vocalization.
• Repetitive or compulsive behaviors.
• Forgetting commands and cues that she once knew.
• House soiling.
• Increased anxiety.
• Confusion and disorientation.
• Marked change in activity level.

Your vet will be able to make a diagnosis by asking you simple questions during the appointment. While there is no cure for CCDS, there are some new medications and therapeutic options your vet can discuss with you.

The single most important thing you can do is check with your vet if you see any of these physical or mental changes. The vet can determine the underlying medical causes and prescribe treatments. He can also help you make some decisions about your dog’s care going forward: changes in diet and exercise, changes you can make around the house, or in the daily routine.

We spoke with Wendy Stevens, a former veterinary technician at VCA Alton Road Animal Hospital in Miami Beach, with 30 years experience, and she said that pet owners’ greatest fear is having to make a decision about their pets’ end of life, and that fear may make an owner unwilling to visit the vet. They may also not be educated about the signs of aging and take a “wait-and-see” attitude. The cost of care is also an issue for many pet owners.

Our dogs give us many years of love and loyalty and it’s only natural to want to make their senior years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Aging is a normal part of life and with some vigilance and attention to your dog’s health, these can truly be “golden years.”

The shape of a dog's ear canal makes your canine companion more susceptible to ear infections than people are. Not only that, dogs that swim frequently and dogs with adorable floppy ears are even more prone to ear infections due to moisture that gets trapped in the ear, creating the ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. 

The good news is that in many cases, with a little care, you can prevent your dog from developing an ear infection. If your dog does develop an infection, by seeing a vet early there's a good chance that the infection can be cleared up quickly and easily.

On the other hand, if your dog's ear infection goes untreated in the early stages a much more serious infection can develop, possibly causing serious symptoms such as facial paralysis, balance and coordination issues, and severe pain.

There are a number of different causes of ear infections in dogs. Bacteria in the ear is a primary cause of infections however yeast, fungus and ear mites can all cause your pup's ears to become infected and painful. Other causes of dog ear infections include foreign objects lodged in the ear, trauma, and tumors or polyps.

There are three types of ear infections seen in dogs;

• Otitis externa infections affect the outside of the ear.
• Otitis media indicates an infection in the dog's middle ear.
• Otitis interna which are infections of your pet's inner ear.

If your pooch has developed an ear infection they are likely to feel very uncomfortable and in some cases, the ear may be very painful. If your dog shows any of the following signs of an ear infection contact your vet straight away to book an examination for your pet. Early treatment of ear infections can help to prevent more severe symptoms from developing.

Common signs of ear infections in dogs include:

• Scratching or pawing at the ear
• Yellow, brown or bloody discharge
• Redness inside of the ear
• Odor in the ear

• Head shaking or tilting
• Swelling of the ear
• Crusts or scabs just inside the ear
• Rubbing ear on floor or furniture

If your dog is suffering from a more severe ear infection you may notice other symptoms such as:

• Loss of balance or coordination
• Signs of hearing loss

• Walking in circles
• Unusual eye movements

If your pooch is diagnosed with an ear infection your vet will take the time to clean your dog's ear with a medicated cleanser and prescribe any antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication appropriate for treating your pet's ear infection. The vet may also prescribe a topical medication and instruct you on how and when to apply it to your dog's ear at home.

When caught early and provided with appropriate treatment, uncomplicated dog ear infections typically clear up within just a week or two. If your pup's ear infection is more severe or is due to an underlying health condition, treatment may be more challenging and may take months to resolve. In many cases, more severe cases result in chronic or repeated ear infections over the course of the dog's lifetime.

Carefully following your veterinarian's instructions is the key to clearing up your dog's ear infection as quickly as possible. Not finishing prescriptions, or stopping treatment before the infection has completely cleared can lead to a recurring infection that becomes increasingly difficult to treat. 

Taking your pup back to the vet for a follow-up appointment is highly recommended for dog ear infections. While it may look as if the infection has cleared there may still be traces of infection that are difficult for pet parents to spot. 

Our vets believe that prevention is always better than treatment. To help prevent your dog from developing an ear infection it is important to keep your pup's ears clean and dry.

Speak to your vet about the best cleaning solution to use for your dog's ears, and take the time to gently clean your pup's ears every week.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

After training your dog a few basic commands like sitting and staying, you can move on to more advanced tricks, like teaching them to shake your hand (sometimes referred to as “giving a paw”). Whether you’re an experienced dog owner or a newbie, by following a few simple steps (and having some patience), your dog is well on their way to learning this cool new trick. As a bonus, this trained behavior comes in handy when you need to wipe off our dog’s muddy paws or even trim their nails.

Have your dog “sit.”

Grab a treat and show it off before you hide it in your closed fist.

Hold out your fist, palm facing up, at about your dog’s chest level.

Your dog should naturally paw at your fist to get to the treat. When they do, open your hand and let them have the treat and give them plenty of praise. Repeat these steps several times until your dog “gets it.”

Repeat steps 1–4, but this time, without holding a treat in your hand. As soon as your dog paws at your fist, give them a treat from your other hand.

Once your dog understands what you want them to do, it’s time to add the word “shake” — add this word just before you put out your hand. Now your dog is shaking!

We recommend practicing for 5-10 minutes per day as to not frustrate or tire out your dog. If you’d like, you can incorporate a clicker into this routine, “clicking” immediately before giving the treat. If your dog isn’t getting the trick down as quickly as you’d like, be sure not to scold and instead to just offer encouragement along the way.

By training your dog to shake (as well all the other foundational behaviors like sitting and staying), you’ve helped keep them safe, improved their confidence, and given yourself something to show off!

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Many people think that dogs just innately know how to walk politely on a leash, but this skill is something that needs to be trained. It’s an important skill to teach, and one you’ll value every time you take your dog out for a walk. Dog training expert and AKC Family Dog training and behavior columnist Kathy Santo offers the following tips:

Introduce the puppy to the collar or harness and leash. Start out by letting him get used to wearing a collar or harness and a leash. Let him wear them for short periods of time in the house while you are playing with him and giving him treats. The puppy should love collar-and-leash time because it represents food and fun.

Teach a cue. Introduce your puppy to a sound cue that means, “food is coming.” Some people like to click and treat, some people use a word like “yes,” and some people cluck their tongue. Whichever you use, the method is the same: In a quiet, distraction-free area, with the puppy on a leash and collar, make the sound. The second your puppy turns toward you and/or looks at you, reward him with a treat. After a few repetitions, you’ll notice your puppy not only looking at you, but also coming over to you for the treat.

Make the puppy come to you. While he’s on his way to you, still wearing the leash and collar, back up a few paces and then reward him when he gets to you. Continue the progression until your puppy, upon hearing the cue noise, comes to you and walks with you a few paces. Remember that puppies have a short attention span, so keep your sessions short, and end them when your puppy is still eager to do more, not when he’s mentally exhausted.

Practice inside. Now that your puppy understands how to come to you, practice walking a few steps in a room with little distraction. Feeling and seeing the leash around him will be enough of a challenge. Offer treats and praise as your puppy gets used to coming to you, as described above, with a leash on.

Take it outside. Finally, you’re ready to test your puppy’s skills in the Great Outdoors. There will be new challenges with this step because all the sounds, smells, and sights your puppy encounters will be intriguing and new to him. Be patient and keep the first walks short. While you’re on a walk, if your puppy looks as if he’s about to lunge toward something or is about to get distracted (you’ll notice this because you will keep your eyes on him at all times), make your cue sound and move a few steps away. Then reward him with a treat for following you.

Please join us for the most pug-a-licious event of the year! Pugs in the Park is the largest annual celebration of all things pug! Help support Colorado Pug Rescue at our biggest fundraiser of the year while you and your pugs have an amazing, fun, pug-filled day! Of course there will be many pugs to meet and play with.

But wait, there’s more!

Fun Fun Fun! Start planning your costume now for the most anticipated pug event of the day: The Pug Costume Contest! The winning pug will be featured in our 2022 Pug Rescue Calendar!

There are other contests too! Line up for the hot-dog eating contest or pucker up for best kisser.

Microchipping will be available for $25, or take advantage of our pug “spa” for a nail trim or face fold wash. Looking fabulous? Get your pug’s portrait taken!

VISIT our Vendors! We’ll have a variety of booths with anything you might need for your pug! Have something to sell? We’d love to have you!

And if that’s not enough shopping for you, we’ll have a silent auction! Want to help the pugs? We are in need of silent auction items. These do not need to be pug (or even dog) related. We’d love a gift certificate to your business, or that wedding gift you’ve tucked away to re-gift someday. If you would like to donate an item for the silent auction, please contact Frankie at frankielynn@gmail.com) or 303-996-1815. We will be happy to come and pick up your donation.

BEST OF ALL: Meet some of our wonderful pugs available for adoption!

So pack up your piggy bank. We’ll have lots of ways for you to help support Colorado Pug Rescue while you have a totally awesome fun pug-filled day! And bring your friends! As we say, if one pug is amusing, 300 pugs are hilarious! The more the merrier!

P.S. – CPR relies almost exclusively on donations from people just like YOU! Your donations to our 501(c)(3) non-profit are tax deductible, and we genuinely appreciate each and every gift. Donations cover veterinary expenses for the pugs CPR cares for annually. Can’t make it to the event? We’ll be sorry to miss you. You can still contribute by clicking here.

Want to be a Pugs in the Park sponsor? Take a look at our available sponsorship levels.

Interested in being a vendor? Sign up for booth space here.

Mella not only takes your pet's body temperature, but it also displays the results on your smart device or desktop. The data is automatically recorded and can be sent to a Practice Management System where it can be analyzed and made intelligible for you.

Visit https://www.mella.ai/

Vacation is your time to unwind and escape the stresses of your busy life. Why not make your vacation time just as enjoyable for your dog? They deserve a vacation as well! Boarding your dog when you’re out of town is a great way to ensure that your dog is thoughtfully cared for while you’re away.  To keep both of your vacations as stress-free as possible, here are 5 things that you can do to prepare your dog before boarding:

If your dog is particularly nervous or prone to separation anxiety, it’s a good idea to plan a trial boarding stay. The trial stay of at least 24 hours eases your dog into a new environment and a new daily routine. You may find that your dog will adjust much better when it comes time for a longer stay.

If your dog sleeps with you in your bed each night, you can expect him to be upset with sleeping alone at the boarding facility. Do your best to get him adjusted to sleeping by himself. If he cries when sleeping alone, you can expect him to cry when he’s boarded.

Regardless of the creature comforts your chosen boarding facility provides, there’s nothing like the comfort of home. Bring a familiar rug for your dog to sleep on. It will help them feel more secure. The facility may allow you to bring your dog’s bed, so ask in advance.

If your schedule permits, drop your dog off at the boarding facility early in the morning. This gives them the entire day to adjust to their surroundings before its time to bed down for the night.

It’s important, and considerate to the other dogs, that you de-flea and worm your dog. You should also update your dog’s vaccinations at least two weeks prior to boarding. Both of these precautions are typically required before boarding.

At WINPRO, we're dedicated to helping dogs live their best lives. Our range of plasma-powered health products are backed by scientific evidence and a money-back guarantee. Our vision is to support the health and well-being of dogs through the use of innovative and effective products.

Visit Winpropet.com

Cindy Myers Ambassador to Animals, Humans and Spirit

I’ve always been a good listener. However, twenty years ago, I would have found it hilarious if you told me that I’d be working as an intuitive energy healer while living on an alpaca farm! But, here I am with a herd of 24 alpacas, 3 dogs and 3 cats working as a Medical Intuitive! I believe that the sum of our life experiences can lead us to our true calling in life. There are many paths to finding our way to our authentic selves.

It took many years, multiple and diverse career paths, and tough life challenges to finding my true calling. The life lessons were invaluable that led me to this meaningful life. I learned about frequencies and Radars while working as an Engineer for the Navy and now I am a Radar! I learned all about stress and how harmful it is to our body, mind and spirit while being my mom’s caregiver through her final years. And there was an amazing gift I created out of the house fire I experienced due to an arsonist. Losing my belongings led me to discovering myself. And I found the courage to embrace and pursue my calling of intuitive energy work. It is an honor and humbles me to do this work for people and their animals.

I love sharing my intuitive abilities with both animals and humans. I look forward to helping you restore your energy balance so you can live an abundantly joy filled life!

https://yourenergyhealer.com/about/

Any good daycare will require proof of vaccinations ahead of time. They’ll also want to know if your pet has been neutered or spayed by the time they’re one year old, says Ryan Getwright, owner of Philly Dog School in Philadelphia, Pa. While daycares are unable to check if you are using flea and tick preventative care, they expect that you are, he says. If you don’t have your dog on a flea and tick regimen now, start before you bring him to daycare.

While the daycare is not a vet, the attendants should know how to respond to health emergencies and how to provide basic first aid to your four-legged buddy. The Red Cross offers these certifications, says Getwright, and your daycare should always have one person on duty who is first aid and CPR certified.

Your dog is at a higher risk of illness with so many pets in close proximity, says Jakob Hunt, vice president of operations and human resources for Dogtopia, a daycare chain with 30 locations in the United States. Because of this, you want to make sure the daycare has strict daily cleaning procedures in place.

At Dogtopia, the playrooms are spot cleaned throughout the day, and then thoroughly cleaned during your dog’s nap time, says Hunt. If something like kennel cough—which is equivalent to the human cold—is identified, the attendants will take even bigger precautions. “The sick dog will be placed in lockdown so the other dogs won’t get sick,” explains Hunt. “Then all the rooms are cleaned. We try to contain the illness as best we can by limiting the amount of times attendants can go from room to room and dipping their shoes in a bleach mixture before they can leave a room.”

Another tip: Check to see if the daycare has floor-to-ceiling walls. Since the majority of illnesses are airborne, half walls and chain-link fences won’t stop them from spreading, explains Hunt.

Before you sign on the dotted line, daycare attendants should give your dog an in-depth assessment without you present. “Just like at children’s daycare, you won’t be there during the day,” says Hunt. “We need to see how your dog will react without you there. It’s our chance to learn as much about your pet as possible so we can give him the best care while you’re at work or away.”

While every dog daycare will have a different assessment format, a good one will look for some of the following things: how your pup responds to a dog crate, what parts of his body he doesn’t like to have touched, and how your pet gets along with other dogs of different energy levels, temperaments, genders, and sizes. Attendants should take detailed notes to share with you afterward and to keep in your dog’s file.

But remember: Daycares aren’t training facilities. “Your dog may be a wonderful pet, but he may not be a good fit for open play,” explains Hunt. “If that’s the case, we’ll recommend you socialize your dog and enroll him in training, and then come back in six months to get reevaluated.”

Daycare is basically an indoor dog park, so Getwright suggests bringing your dog to the outdoor version before you consider daycare. “If your dog doesn’t like it, he won’t enjoy it here,” he says.

It’s also a good way to see how your dog interacts with other animals. “Many dogs who have never been in open play don’t know dog language,” says Hunt. “But when they hang around other dogs for a few days, they begin to learn it.” Then, when dogs approach your pooch in the daycare, he’ll know the proper way to react.

Some dog daycares operate on an a la carte basis, says Hunt. Want Rufus to go on a walk? That’ll cost you an extra $10 a day. Want Baxter to be petted throughout the day? That’ll cost you $7. Those small additions add up to a big price tag. Ask the daycare manager what is included in the daily fee. Many places will accommodate your wishes for no extra charge.

Schedules vary dramatically from daycare to daycare. Some are very structured, while others are looser. Choose a facility with a daily timeline that best suits your dog. However, make sure there’s plenty of time for both play and relaxation included. “If you don’t allow for rest, dogs get clumsy or grumpy because they’re tired,” says Hunt.

And they will get tired. Daycares should encourage dogs to play with one another under supervision for the majority of the day. Some facilities will offer indoor miniature jungle gym equipment for your dog to climb up and slide down. Some smaller daycares will take dogs for walks in small groups. “Your dog will be active and busy. He’ll burn calories, he’ll run around,” says Getwright. “He’ll be wiped out when he gets home.”

Since both food allergies and food aggression in dogs are common, daycares should take precautions at chow time. Some facilities, like Philly Dog School, don’t allow dog food at all. Dogs are given plenty of water throughout the day.

Others, like Dogtopia, feed pets two to three times a day. However, the dogs have to eat in individual crates. Afterward, the attendants clean the room and make sure there are no leftover pieces of kibble lying around before the dogs are let out for playtime again.

Many daycares allow owners to remotely check in on their pooches. Dogtopia has cameras in every room so you can watch Fido playing, eating, or napping on your phone or your computer, while Philly Dog School has an Instagram account you can follow so you can get a peek of his daily activities. Other chains boast movie theaters, spas, and theme days for events like March Madness. Figure out what additions are most important to you and your dog before making your final decision.

Jill Fanslau

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Published: December 21, 2016

A clean pup is a healthy pup, but if you’re a new pet parent, it may be confusing figuring out how often to bathe and groom your dog. However, the right bathing and grooming schedule for your pet will help maintain their overall skin and coat health and keep them comfortable.
 
The frequency of bathing and grooming your dog depends on a couple of factors including your dog’s breed, lifestyle and coat health.
 
If you’re trying to establish a grooming schedule for your dog, you can follow these guidelines to create the ideal program for your pup.

While the frequency of bathing may be different for each dog, Wendy Weinand, manager, pet services grooming education for Petco, says that a good rule to follow is to wash your dog every four weeks.
 
“This will help to keep their skin and coat clean and keep their natural oils spread out to help condition,” she says. “Plus, they will smell great.”
 
Regular bathing is important because it removes the buildup of dirt and debris on a dog’s skin and prevents potential skin conditions from developing such as clogged pores, itchiness, dry skin or oily skin. “When pets are dirty, their skin doesn’t ‘breathe’ correctly,” says Weinand, “and they can end up with some issues that may require veterinary care to fix.”
 
Keep in mind that dogs who play outdoors regularly or get dirty from rolling around in dirt and mud may need more frequent baths. Certain dog breeds may also need to be washed more than others.
 
“Certain breeds, like Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, have a naturally oily coat,” says Weinand. “Bathing them regularly will help remove the ‘dirty’ oils and replace them with clean, new natural oil the skin is producing.”
 
Seasonality may also affect the frequency of your dog’s baths, Weinand adds. In the winter, pet parents may want to bathe and condition their dog’s skin more frequently to cut down on dryness and itching. While in the spring, when pets are shedding, more frequent baths may be needed to help remove dead coat.
 
Be careful not to bathe your dog too often, because overwashing your dog’s skin can cause irritation. “Unless there is a medical reason for more frequent baths, overbathing your pet—say weekly or even every two weeks—can dry out the skin and coat,” says Weinand.

Grooming your dog’s hair and coat is another necessary pet parent responsibility. Like bathing, the frequency of grooming appointments or at-home grooming sessions will depend on your dog’s breed and coat length.
 
“The majority of breeds that need haircuts—for example Poodles, Cocker Spaniels and Yorkies—need to be seen every six to eight weeks to keep their coats from getting matted,” says Weinand. “Their coats tend to grow at a faster rate than some other breeds.”
 
Dogs with shorter coats, like the Brittany or Parson Terrier, can go longer between grooming appointments because their hair grows slower. These dog breeds should still be brushed regularly at home to keep their coats healthy.
 
Pet parents should watch for matting and pay attention to overall hair and coat health when brushing their dogs. If something doesn’t look right, they should consult with a veterinarian or dog groomer for professional treatment.

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is a part of grooming that many pet parents find difficult, but it’s something that shouldn’t be overlooked.
 
“If nails get too long, it can cause issues with walking,” says Weinand. “Or they will crack up to the paw exposing the ‘vein,’ which can be very painful.” Additionally, “Not trimming your dog’s nails regularly can also lead to infections that may require veterinary intervention.”
 
Most dogs need their nails trimmed every two weeks, says Weinand. If dogs regularly walk outside on hard surfaces like sidewalks or pavement, they may require less frequent nail trims (every four weeks) because the act of walking can help file nails down.
 
If you’re unsure how to approach this part of grooming, watch this video to learn how to cut your dog’s nails properly.
 
For more guidance on your pet’s specific bathing and grooming needs, scroll through to find Petco’s recommended schedule below. If you don’t see your pet’s breed, you can call your local Petco grooming salon for recommendations.

JANUARY 19, 2019 BY KRISTIN HITCHCOCK LEAVE A COMMENT

A fat Pug is likely to have health problems. This breed often has trouble breathing, even at a healthy weight, so the extra pounds are going to add up to some serious issues.

Despite their barrel ribs, Pugs should be slim with a visible tuck at the waist.

Just like for us humans, bad habits and over eating cause Pugs to gain weight.

But carrying a few extra ounces or pounds can have health implications for your pup too.

Let’s find out what the healthy weight for a Pug is, and how to help a Pug who’s overweight.

Pugs typically weigh around 14 to 18 pounds. Of course, some Pugs might weigh more or less than this and still be healthy.

Instead of relying on the scale alone, we recommend looking at your Pug’s body for signs of obesity.

There are two easy ways to check dogs’ weight at home.

You should easily be able to feel your Pug’s ribs under their skin.

There should only be a very thin layer of fat present, much like the back of your hand.

If it is difficult to feel their ribs, it is possible that they are overweight.

On the other hand, you should not be able to see your dog’s ribs when they are in a normal standing position.

This is a sign that your dog is underweight, which can cause all sorts of problems as well.

Just like a human, your dog should have a waist around her stomach area between her ribs and hips.

The easiest way to check a dog’s waist is to look at her from the top down.

Pug waistlines are not as pronounced as other breeds. But Pugs should still have small indents on their waists.

If you Pug is more rounded, it is possible that they are overweight.

Pugs‘ large eyes, shortened snouts and curly tails make these pooches easily recognizable.

However, many of these unique characteristics also give Pugs a few health problems.

Their short snouts, for example, cause many of them to experience breathing problems.

These conditions affect their ability to run, play, and generally be active.

Pugs are not known to be active dogs.

Many would much rather lay around than do much activity.

But that’s not because they are inherently lazy dogs. https://thehappypuppysite.com/lazy-dog-breeds/

Their reluctance to exercise is actually because of their breathing problems.

The Pug’s shortened snout makes it difficult for them to breathe and get the oxygen they need.

Because of these difficulties, many Pugs tire quickly and can only handle short exercise sessions.

Their owners often must restrict their playtime to prevent overheating or fainting.

In hot weather, it might even be impossible for a Pug to exercise at all. Often, the risks are not worth it.

This inability to exercise for extended periods can make the Pug gain weight quickly.

It is essential that their food intake is restricted appropriately.

On top of this, a healthy weight is essential for a Pug’s health. If a Pug becomes overweight, it is often even harder for them to breathe properly.

This difficulty only makes them able to exercise less, which compounds their weight gain.

In this case, prevention and proper veterinary care are the best medicines.

But, if you do think your Pug is overweight, there is no reason to fret.

If you have done these two tests and suspect your Pug might have some extra fat, it is essential to take them to the vet.

This is to rule out any underlying health condition which might have caused weight gain.

This step is particularly important if the weight gain was sudden.

Your vet will also check your dog for subsequent health problems caused by carrying extra weight.

Because Pugs have many structural problems, extra weight can have a severe impact on their health.

It is vital that you get your Pug checked out by a vet before starting any exercise routine or changing the dog’s diet.

If your Pug is experiencing any underlying disorder, an increase in exercises can be detrimental.

A fat Pug is not a healthy Pug.

Sadly, the breed is very prone to health problems anyway.

It’s important therefore to keep him as slim as possible.

Unfortunately, having a few extra pounds will only make their problems worse. As you might guess, a fat Pug will get hotter even faster.

And, combined with a Pug’s inability to cool herself properly, this can result in overheating very quickly.

The extra weight will also put more strain on their back.

This strain can worsen any existing spinal problems and cause arthritis.

When you add in extra fat, a Pug’s skinfolds often become larger and more pronounced.

This increases the risk for infections. Plus, it is also more difficult to notice an infection with so much extra fat hanging around.

Dogs aren’t healthy when they’re obese. But a Pug is even more affected than your average canine.

Obesity can have significant effects on health very quickly.

If your Pug is overweight, it is essential to get her to shed those extra pounds quickly and safely.

Luckily, helping your Pug lose weight is not complicated.

Slim Pugs are healthier than Fat Pugs

Just like humans, for your Pug to lose weight, you must create a caloric deficit. In other words, they need to burn more calories than they lose.

This deficit will cause the body to consume extra fat for energy. Over time, this will result in a skinnier, healthier Pug.

This is done in two major ways: diet and exercise.

If you feed your Pug treats regularly, your first step is to cut them out completely.

While it might be difficult to deny your adorable Pug, treats have little nutritional value and can tack on many extra calories.

Depending on how many treats you feed your Pug, this might be all you need to do. Some Pugs show improvement after treats are cut out.

Next, you should switch out training treats for a healthier alternative.

Switch out any processed, unhealthy training treats or regular meals for something healthier.

Chicken is often a good alternative, as are carrots if you can get your pooch to eat them.

Finally, begin cutting back on your dog’s regular meals.

For the next four days, give your dog a third less than normal.

At the end of that period take a look at whether they have lost weight.

If they have, great, keep it up until they are back at a healthy size.

If not, reduce by a third again for four days.

Repeat until your pup is looking slim and trim.

Then very gradually up the quantity slightly until their weight stabilizes.

Exercise can also be useful to help your canine lose weight.

However, due to a Pug’s difficulty exercising, it is often a better idea to focus on dietary change over exercise.

If you do decide to exercise your Pug, keep sessions very short and watch for signs of exhaustion and overheating.

Do not go running, walking is fine.

Do not take your pup out on hot days, or in the humidity.

Watch that they aren’t overheating.

A sure sign of oxygen deprivation is if his tongue is curled up and around.

Their panting tongue should lie flat.

While your pup is on her diet, it’s important to make sure she doesn’t overheat or over exercise.

Dogs with breathing problems will snort, snore and may even in their desperation try to sleep upright.

This habit that is seen as cute by some is actually a sign of respiratory distress.

If your Pug sleeps sitting upright, take her to the vet. She might need more help to lose weight more quickly, and potentially an operation to open her airways.

By making these changes to your dog’s diet and exercise, it is likely that she will be more energetic and playful.

This means that she can interact and keep up with her family better.

Additionally, with the loss of weight, your dog will be able to manoeuvre around the home easier and with less assistance.

Because your dog will have lost weight, diseases and illnesses related to obesity will be less frequent and not as severe.

To help inspire others, feel free to share your Pug’s weight loss journey below.

• Liu, N.C., et al., 2017, “Conformational Risk Factors of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (Boas) in Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Bulldogs,” PLOS One
• O’Neill, D., et al., 2016, “Demography and Health of Pugs Under Primary Veterinary Care in England,” Canine Genetics and Epidemiology
• Packer, R., 2012, “Normal for the Breed?” The Veterinary Nurse, Vol. 3, Issue 5
• Roedler, F.S., et al., 2013, “How Does Severe Brachycephaly Affect Dog’s Lives? Results of a Structured Preoperative Owner Questionnaire,” The Veterinary Journal, Vol. 198, Issue 3, pgs. 606-10
• Ryan, R., et al., 2017, “Prevalence of Thoracic Vertebral Malformations in French Bulldogs, Pugs and English Bulldogs with and Without Associated Neurological Deficits,” The Veterinary Journal

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Hi, I am Cindy. I am excited that you are here! As you can see, I offer both Human and Animal Services and often times do both simultaneously with clients. Click on either one below to learn more about my offerings. If you have additional questions, most answers can be found on my FAQ Page. Thank you for your interest, I look forward to possibly working with you and/or your pet. – Cindy

Visit yourenergyhealer.com for more info

As cute as Pugs are, they are susceptible to a brain disorder with unknown causes called encephalitis. This neurological disease is only found in Pugs and can be fatal. Find out the warning signs for encephalitis here.

The adorable wrinkly Pug makes a wonderful family pet, but unfortunately, some of these dogs fall victim to a neurological disease called Pug dog encephalitis (PDE). Encephalitis refers to an inflammation of the brain tissues that causes pain, seizures, and ultimately death.

Read on to learn about the causes and symptoms of this serious condition.

Unlike other forms of encephalitis that can be linked to infections, PDE is unique in that it is idiopathic, meaning that the cause is not known. However, because it tends to strike Pugs who are closely related (e.g., littermates), many veterinarians suspect that it is hereditary and immune-mediated. Immune-mediated diseases are those characterized by an abnormal immune response in which the body’s immune system is tricked into seeing normal tissues as dangerous, and then attacks them. In the case of PDE, the immune system would attack the brain.

Regardless of this widespread theory, there is still no definitive answer for what causes Pug dog encephalitis.

PDE usually strikes pugs between 2 and 3 years of age, though it can be seen in Pugs as young as 6 months old and as old as 7 years.

Because PDE affects the brain, most of the symptoms are neurological, and include:

• Behavioral changes
• Seizures
• Neck stiffness
• Head tilt
• Pressing head against walls or objects
• Disorientation or confusion
• Loss of coordination
• Walking in circles
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Blindness

In many cases, the symptoms of PDE will progress rapidly (in a matter of days or weeks) and result in sudden death, usually due to a seizure. In other cases, a Pug may be able to live a while longer with the help of anticonvulsant drugs to control seizures. Ultimately, all affected Pugs will succumb to the disease, usually within months after the onset of symptoms.

You should contact your veterinarian at the first appearance of symptoms. Because PDE is not the only cause of seizures in Pugs, your dog will likely be examined for other diseases such as epilepsy, intracranial tumor, and poisoning. If PDE is found, supportive treatment will be started immediately.

To learn more about the study, please contact Dr. Rebecca Windsor at rwindsor@ethosvet.com. Please visit Ethos website. 

It is very scary if you lose your pet. 

Visit https://www.lostpetrescue.org/

OUR MISSION:

Summit Lost Pet Rescue is an animal protection and welfare organization devoted to finding lost pets in Summit County Colorado and reuniting them with their owners.

​

• Go to www.lostpetrescue.org and fill out the Owner Intake Waiver Form

​

• Call ALL of the following to REPORT LOST:

  • Summit County Animal Control 970-668-8600

  • Call Summit County Shelter 970-668-3230

  • Call Summit Lost Pet Rescue 970-423-5701​

​

• COMFORT/SCENT STATIONS- place out owner’s dirty clothes, dirty towels, dirty sheets, pet bed, etc ASAP in area where pet was last seen. If missing pet has a sibling pet, rub towels on the sibling pet and leave those where the pet went missing as well for scents.

​

• SHARE on the following Facebook pages:

  • Summit Lost Pet Rescue

  • Summit County Loves Their Pets

  • Dog Gone Summit County

  • One Man’s Junk Summit County

    • Post a picture and name of lost animal

    • Date, time, exact location lost

    • Phone number of owner to call or text if seen

    • Describe animal- shy, skittish, friendly, what color collar, etc

​

• NEON SIGNS- hang neon foamboard signs and write in big black marker: “LOST DOG”, “TYPE OF DOG”, “CALL TEXT xxx-xxx-xxxx”, “DO NOT CHASE”  See example on www.lostpetrescue.org

​

• SHARE on www.nextdoor.com & www.pawboost.com

​​​​

• Call your microchip company and report lost

​​

• Call all local vets and shelters in area and surrounding areas

​

• GO SEARCHING ON FOOT & USE CALMING TECHNIQUES:

  • DO NOT CALL or CHASE pet

  • Get low to ground, turn back, don’t make eye contact and do not call his name or chase.  He’s in flight or fight mode and will run.  If you see him, do these steps and toss some treats his way.  Act like you’re eating and dropping crumbs to see if it’ll entice him to come. Build trust. Let him come to you.

  • Be patient & calm

  • If missing pet has a sibling pet, take them with you on every search to spread the scent​

  • Keep smelly treats with you and a lead leash. 

  • If you see him, he may not recognize you right away (don’t take this personally, its part of survival mode, they get confused). ​

  • Keep chip bag or paper with you and make crinkly sound. 

​

• FLYERS- hang on bus stops, Summit Daily Boxes, gas stations, local restaurants & businesses, neighbors cars, and share with Fedex/Ups/Post Office/mailman/garbage truck drivers, etc

​

CLICK HERE FOR LOST DOG FLYER TEMPLATE

​

CLICK HERE FOR LOST CAT FLYER TEMPLATE

​​​​​​

• Post sign in owners yard- “LOST DOG LIVES HERE”​​​

​

• Window markers on your car- write "lost dog, description, location, phone number"

​

• Look on Craigslist for free pets or pets for sale (just in case someone picked up your lost pet and is trying to sell) 

​

• Look on Petfinder.com & Petharbor.com

​

Those with information about this lost pet should contact Summit Lost Pet Rescue, Inc. (“SLPR”) at 970-423-5701.  

IMPORTANT:  Those reading this flyer are not authorized to

We are 100% donation based and donations go directly toward resources and supplies to help find lost pets.

RESCUE REPORT since

January 2020:

LOST PETS FOUND & REUNITED WITH OWNERS:

109 DOGS

24 CATS

PugHearts of Houston Pug Rescue is a true 501(c)(3) non-profit charity founded in the Houston area by dedicated pug owners and lovers.  Our mission is the rescue, rehabilitation and permanent placement of needy pugs into loving homes.

http://pughearts.com/

Many pets are prone to ear infections — especially those with long, floppy ears. Because of this, many dog owners are familiar with the symptoms of dog ear infections. Common symptoms of dog ear infections include:

• Excessive itching and scratching at the ear
• Head shaking, particularly when it looks awkward or unnatural
• Swelling and redness around the ear canal
• Scratching at the affected ear
• Unusual discharge and odor
• Scabs or crusted over the skin in the ears

The ear canal of dogs is much more vertical than the human ear canal. This L-shape makes it more susceptible to holding fluid and disruption from bacteria, yeast, or ear mites — all of which are causes of infection. There are three types of dog ear infections:

• Otitis externa, the most common one that typically affects the outer portion of the ear
• Otitis media, affecting the middle part of the ear canal and usually a secondary development in up to 50% of chronic otitis externa cases
• Otitis interna, referring to inner ear infections that can result in neurological damage

Dog ear infections can be a serious condition, which may result in hearing loss or facial paralysis. These serious complications make it imperative to prevent infection and seek treatment as soon as symptoms arise in your pet.

Caring for and managing dog ear infections involve cleaning, medication, and aftercare.

Up to 16.5% of dogs will experience at least otitis externa, and complications may involve further development into more serious dog ear infections. Fortunately, there are straightforward steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and minimize the severity of such infections in your dog.

Immediate Care

Once your vet has determined the severity and type of ear infection your dog is experiencing, they will clean your dog’s ear thoroughly to remove debris, discharge, and ear wax. They may use a medicated ear cleaner or apply a topical medication.

In more severe cases, the vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or oral antibiotics for your pet.

Long-Term Care

Your vet will likely prescribe a topical medication to your dog. It is important for you to carefully follow your veterinarian’s exact directives and instructions. You may make the application process easier by:

• Keeping your dog relaxed with affection and treats.
• Relying on a partner's help to hold and comfort your pet while you apply medication to the ear.
• Ensuring that you place the applicator safely outside of the dog’s ear when dispensing medication.
• Gently massaging the medication into the affected area.

• Remedies and Treatments for Dog Ear Infections 
• When to See a Vet

Always finish the full course of the medication, even if your pet seems to be feeling better. Lapses or errors in treatment can prolong your pup’s illness.

Maintenance and Prevention

Whether it’s to prevent an infection from starting or to manage the healing of a dog ear infection that’s already in progress, ear cleaning is an important part of your dog’s hygiene. Cleaning your dog’s ears can:

• Make it easier for you to examine your dog’s ear canal
• Remove microbes and other small foreign objects that may cause dog ear infections
• Clean and expose the ear canal for possible topical medication applications

Ear infections are often caused by excess moisture. Take care to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears after a swim or a bath. If your dog experiences chronic infections, talk to your vet about underlying causes such as allergies. 

Managing your dog’s hygiene is an effective way to prevent future ear infections. Clean your dog’s ears by:

• Gently wiping the ear with an absorbent gauze. Never use a washcloth or paper towel.
• Avoiding cotton swabs, which can push debris deeper into your dog’s ear. 
• Cleaning the external portions of your dog’s ears

For many dogs, ear infections are a recurring problem. Be proactive about keeping your dog’s ears clean and dry to prevent future ear-related health issues.

As soon as you notice symptoms of an ear infection in your faithful friend, you should contact your veterinarian. Prompt and proactive treatment will ensure your dog’s comfort and happiness. 

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A mystery dog illness that spread across the U.S. last year and can lead to serious or fatal respiratory problems is still under investigation, but cases are starting to slow, experts say.

The illness, which started to spread more widely in the summer and fall of 2023, causes coughing, sneezing and fatigue, among other symptoms, and can progress quickly to pneumonia. The dogs suspected to have it test negative for all of the typical causes of respiratory symptoms and often don't respond to treatment.

In a statement to TODAY.com, the American Veterinary Medical Association says that based on "conversations with various sources ... the number of cases are declining," adding that an "ebb and flow" of respiratory illness in dogs over the course of the year is common, similar to cold and flu season in humans.

The statement also explains that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has so far not seen that the rise in respiratory illness in dogs is linked to a new virus or bacteria.

A statement from the Animal and Plant Inspection Service, part of the USDA, confirms to TODAY.com that the state-led testing that the agency is helping coordinate "has not indicated the presence of a novel pathogen or single infectious cause among these cases."

Numerous veterinary diagnostic labs across the country are investigating the outbreak, from Oregon to Kansas to New Hampshire.

The APHIS spokesperson adds that the illness is not regulated by APHIS and therefore the branch doesn't have data on case numbers.

The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association also shared in an Feb. 14, 2024, update that "cases seem to be waning, if not back to normal," citing veterinarian Dr. Scott Weese's Worms and Germs blog.

At last count, at least 19 states had reported cases of the illness, according to various expert groups. The AVMA explained in an earlier statement that the mystery dog illness is difficult to track because there's no national surveillance system.

In November 2023, veterinarians in critical care settings told TODAY.com that they'd seen dozens of cases since the fall.

Late last year, multiple groups — including the Colorado and Oregon departments of agriculture, the AVMA, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health — issued warnings about the mystery illness in dogs.

“We don’t know what is causing this situation, where dogs are presenting at veterinarians with what private veterinarians would call kennel cough,” Rhode Island's state veterinarian Dr. Scott Marshall told NBC affiliate WJAR. “What’s different about this situation is that dogs are presenting with little bit more severe signs, not responding to usual treatments, and unfortunately had a small number, still a number, of dogs that have succumbed to them.”

“It seems to happen very, very quickly — to go from this cough that’s just won’t go away ... and then all of a sudden they develop this pneumonia,” Dr. Lindsey Ganzer, veterinarian and CEO at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told TODAY.com. She said she treated over a dozen dogs with what she believes is the condition between October and November 2023.

If your dog develops a cough, do not panic, the AVMA advises. But stay vigilant about its progression and your pet's overall health, and contact your vet right away if anything seems off.

Dogs with this mystery illness usually have coughing, sneezing, eye or nose discharge, are abnormally tired, and do not test positive for any common causes of canine respiratory illness, the Oregon Department of Agriculture noted in a Nov. 9 press release.

Typically, dogs with respiratory illnesses have a cough for seven to 10 days, but some vets saw an uptick in dogs with coughs lasting weeks to months that don't respond to treatment, the Colorado Department of Agriculture said in a Nov. 22 statement.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of this mystery illness outbreak was the high number of dogs who developed pneumonia. One Colorado vet, Dr. Michael Lappin, director of the Center for Companion Animal Studies at the Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine, told NBC News the number of canine pneumonia cases in the state rose by 50% between September and November 2023 compared to 2022.

Marshall estimated that Rhode Island saw at least 35 cases of the mystery respiratory illness, but it's hard to know exactly how many because not all cases are reported.

Dogs are most likely to contract it by being in close contact with numerous other dogs — so places like doggy day care, dog parks, groomers or boarding kennels, Ganzer said. The illness seems to affect dogs regardless of age, size or breed, though dogs with snort snouts, like bulldogs and pugs, may be at higher risk.

Between mid-August and mid-November, the Oregon Department of Agriculture received reports of over 200 cases of the illness from veterinarians in the state but has had no additional cases to report since.

A Dec. 1 statement from the Washington Department of Agriculture said the state has received 16 reports of unusual canine respiratory disease. Two cases were confirmed as such.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture also shared in November that veterinarians in the state were seeing "double the number of cases than what is typically seen during a canine infectious respiratory disease outbreak."

The Wisconsin State Journal reported that between late October and December, clinics around the state saw six to 12 cases each, according to Dr. Keith Poulsen, director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at University of Wisconin-Madison.

Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, head of urgent care services at Colorado State University James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, in Fort Collins, Colorado, told TODAY.com that this past summer she started seeing cases of dogs with coughs lasting several weeks or longer, and the trend continued into the fall. She estimated her caseload of coughing dogs doubled from October to November.

While dogs with a contagious cough are common in veterinary settings, Cavanagh noted that she normally sees cases decrease in the fall as temperatures drop and fewer dogs are gathering at parks. "But this year, the spike has stayed high," she explains.

In its original press release, the Oregon Department of Agriculture noted that the illness can progress in three ways:

• Mild to moderate cough for six to eight weeks or longer that either doesn't respond to antibiotics or only responds a little
• Chronic pneumonia that doesn't respond to antibiotics
• Severe pneumonia that "often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24 to 36 hours"

Cavanagh witnessed all three scenarios play out at her hospital. Last fall, she said she saw more dogs than usual with a long-lasting upper respiratory infection who then developed pneumonia from a secondary bacterial infection.

Of the dogs she treated, she said most who developed pneumonia responded to antibiotics, and many with the long-lasting cough recovered with time and never got pneumonia. But of those who developed the severe pneumonia, some died or had to be euthanized.

"That really bad pneumonia, historically, is very, very rare. Maybe I would see one case a year," but last fall alone, Cavanagh saw a "handful," she said.

Because most states are not tracking case numbers, it's not known exactly how many dogs have died from the illness.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture tells TODAY.com that it does not know how many dogs have died from the illness in the state.

However, it is confirmed that some dogs in the U.S. have died from the mystery illness.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture said in a statement that "in rare cases, the canine patients progress quickly from pneumonia to death." Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biological Sciences also said the illness has resulted in "some fatalities."

Ganzer and Cavanagh both have had several canine patients die from what they believe to be the condition. Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association President Shelly Pancoast told WJAR that she's seen five to 10 dogs die from the mystery illness.

“We still don’t have a great handle on how exactly we should be treating these dogs,” Pancoast said. “A vast majority of them are making full recovery, it’s just unlike anything we’ve seen in previous years with kennel cough."

According to various expert groups, cases that match the description of the mystery dog illness have been reported, officially or anecdotally, in:

• Colorado
• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Nevada
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• Vermont
• Washington
• Wisconsin

This above list of states comes from the AVMA, the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association, the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine and the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Symptoms of the mystery dog illness include:

• Coughing that doesn't get better on its own after a week or so
• Sneezing
• Nasal or eye discharge
• Red eyes
• Lethargy
• Trouble breathing, especially from the stomach
• Blue or purple gums (due to not getting enough oxygen)

Related: What does coughing in a dog sound like? Vet explains in viral video

For many dog owners, the signs of coughing can be difficult to recognize, Dr. Michele Forbes, Dr. Michele Forbes, owner of Compassionate Care Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, says.

"Rarely do (dog owners) identify a cough until it becomes an overt problem and it’s clearly coming from the chest,” Forbes explained in a now-viral TikTok.

As a result of owners not noticing coughing or confusing it for something else, like throat-clearing or gagging, some dogs are arriving at vet facilities in more advanced stages of the condition, which can make it more difficult to treat, Forbes told TODAY.com.

Some tips to help identify signs of coughing in dogs:

• The sound dogs make when they're choking can be confused for coughing.
• Some dogs sound like they're honking, kind of like a goose.
• Coughing can also sound like the dog is gagging or clearing its throat.
• The chest may heave or the abdomen may move while the dog is coughing.
• For some dogs, it looks like they're trying to cough up a hair ball and they may produce some liquid.
• A wet cough may produce a gargling sound.
• If a dog is coughing a lot, they may end up vomiting, which dog owners often confuse for a gastrointestinal issue.
• Reverse-sneezing can be confused for coughing but it's not usually a reason to call the vet unless it's paired with actual coughing, nasal discharge or any other concerning symptoms.

Other signs that your dog should see the vet, per the AVMA, include:

• Lingering cough
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Worsening of illness
• Cough that is sufficiently severe that it causes the dog to vomit or makes it hard for the animal to breathe

Dogs are most likely to contract the illness when in close contact with other dogs, so previous guidance was to keep dogs away from other dogs. But case rates have essentially returned to normal, Weese noted in his blog.

To keep your dog safe and healthy overall, the AVMA recommends keeping up to date with vaccinations. "While the existing vaccines may not specifically target this unknown infection, maintaining overall health through routine vaccinations can help support a dog’s immune system in combating various infections," it said.

The AVMA stressed the following vaccines: Bordetella, Adenovirus type 2, and parainfluenza combined with the injectable influenza H3N2 vaccine.

Be sure to give your dog two weeks after vaccination before interacting with other dogs so they can build up immunity.

If your dog is sick, consult a vet as soon as possible, as early testing can help with treatment, and keep the dog away from other dogs to avoid spreading the illness, experts advise.

While it's unlikely a humans can get sick with the respiratory illness, because the cause is still unknown, the AVMA suggests thoroughly washing hands after handling any dogs.

Caroline Kee contributed reporting.

CUDDLY helps give all animals a healthy life and a loving home. We enable animal rescues to create fundraisers and wishlists to support animals in their care. Through CUDDLY, animal lovers can purchase and give in a modern, transparent way. With over 2,000+ animal welfare organizations on board, CUDDLY's mission is to help save as many animals globally through community, innovation, and creativity. As a for-good startup, we believe animals often "rescue" us. And it is our obligation to support those who do not have a voice. As a company, we believe the best way for us to make an impact is by providing the "business" tools, namely fundraising, marketing, and a valuable community, to animal-focused non-profits so that they can fulfill their potential and continue to do good.

I'll be hosting my next Animals and Emotions webinar next Wednesday, April 14thd at 6PM PST.

This is a completely free interactive webinar that focuses on animals and their emotions and more importantly, how we can communicate with them...

In this Animals & Emotions webinar, I will be answering questions, showing off some live demos and lots more.

Join Cindy and Remember, this is a free webinar! Register now to receive your webinar link and event details.

If you have any questions, please drop me an email. I love to listen!

The Happy Listener,

Cindy

Cindy@BeAnAnimalListener.com
YourEnergyHealer.com

Almost all dog urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria, which are normally present on the skin or in a dog’s poop. Typically, problems start when the bacteria move up through the genitals and spread into the bladder, kidneys, and prostate. 

Bacteria irritate the urinary tract causing inflammation (swelling). Some types of bacteria can also cause stones to develop in the bladder.

Any dog can have a UTI, but Sharon Marx, DVM, medical director of VCA Animal Healing Center in Yardley, Penn., says some dogs are more likely to get them. Older female dogs and those who hold their urine for a long time are more susceptible. Your dog may also be at higher risk if he has: 

• Diabetes
• Bladder stones
• A weakened immune system, due to medications or medical conditions like Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism

Dog UTI symptoms are easily noticeable if you know what to look for. Signs of a UTI in dogs include: 

• Frequent need to pee but little urine comes out
• Straining to pee
• Crying out or whining during urination
• Blood in urine
• Peeing in the house
• Leaking urine
• Licking genitals

If you have a male dog that hasn’t been neutered, the bacteria that cause a UTI can infect the prostate as well. Signs your dog’s prostate is affected include: 

• Back pain
• Abdominal pain
• Stiff or funny walk
• Disinterest in normal activities

Just like UTIs in humans, UTIs in our canine companions are painful—and waiting too long to take your pup to the vet for treatment can make symptoms worse. The infection can spread to kidneys and the prostate. While you might want to run out and pick up over-the-counter treatment to help your pup now, Marx says to avoid medications meant for people, since they’re toxic to pets.

If you suspect your dog has a UTI, see your veterinarian for antibiotics. The test for a dog UTI is a urine culture. Your vet will analyze a sample of your dog’s urine to see if bacteria are present and if there are any crystals, which can signal that your dog has bladder stones too. 

Marx says you can collect a urine sample at home or have your vet do it at the clinic. Here’s how:

Marx recommends trying to get urine from your dog’s first-morning pee if possible—it’ll be the most concentrated sample. Catch it in a clean container that can be sealed. 

You can also scoot a soup ladle underneath your dog to catch the urine while she pees and then transfer it to a clean container. But note that a home urine sample has to get to your vet’s office within two hours. 

If you can’t get a sample at home, your vet can take a sterile sample with a needle. “It’s a quick procedure that most dogs tolerate extremely well,” Marx says.  

Your dog may also need x-rays to check for bladder stones if your vet finds crystals in the urine sample. Bladder stones can cause recurring bladder infections and need to be treated as well. 

In most cases, Marx says treatment for a UTI in dogs is a simple course of antibiotics, usually prescribed for seven to 14 days. You should also encourage your dog to drink water to flush bacteria from the bladder.  

“Dogs should feel better by 48 hours after starting antibiotics,” Marx says. “Sometimes, it can be as early as 24 hours. But continue the medication for as long as prescribed by your vet to completely clear up the UTI.” Your vet can recheck the urine at a follow-up exam to make sure the bacteria is gone.

Marx says the best thing you can do to prevent another UTI is to make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water. Also, take frequent walks or provide a lot of potty breaks for your dog throughout the day. 

If your dog has recurring UTIs, your vet may recommend taking supplements. “Cranberry and vitamin C can help dogs that have chronic UTIs by lowering urine pH,” Marx says. “But discuss it with your vet before using any treatment. These supplements can make some types of infections worse, especially if certain crystal types (calcium oxalates) are part of the cause.”

An underlying medical condition could also be what’s behind your dog’s multiple UTIs or difficulty getting one to go away. Your vet may suggest additional testing to determine the root cause of chronic UTIs.

Visit Bones for Homes on Facebook to learn more and purchase antlers for your dog! 

Cindy Myers Ambassador to Animals, Humans and Spirit

I’ve always been a good listener. However, twenty years ago, I would have found it hilarious if you told me that I’d be working as an intuitive energy healer while living on an alpaca farm! But, here I am with a herd of 24 alpacas, 3 dogs and 3 cats working as a Medical Intuitive! I believe that the sum of our life experiences can lead us to our true calling in life. There are many paths to finding our way to our authentic selves.

It took many years, multiple and diverse career paths, and tough life challenges to finding my true calling. The life lessons were invaluable that led me to this meaningful life. I learned about frequencies and Radars while working as an Engineer for the Navy and now I am a Radar! I learned all about stress and how harmful it is to our body, mind and spirit while being my mom’s caregiver through her final years. And there was an amazing gift I created out of the house fire I experienced due to an arsonist. Losing my belongings led me to discovering myself. And I found the courage to embrace and pursue my calling of intuitive energy work. It is an honor and humbles me to do this work for people and their animals.

I love sharing my intuitive abilities with both animals and humans. I look forward to helping you restore your energy balance so you can live an abundantly joy filled life!

Visit https://yourenergyhealer.com/about/ for more info

Can’t afford to invest in our hemp products? Check out our philanthropy page… We are happy to help!

Visit https://medicinewomancbd.com/

A very tough topic. 

Please visit Cristi at Natural Pet Wellness for more information:

Tel: 720-830-6293 

Email: naturalpetwellnewsinfo@gmail.com 

Summit Lost Pet Rescue is an animal protection and welfare organization devoted to finding lost pets in Summit County Colorado and reuniting them with their owners.

They are 100% donation based and donations go directly toward resources and supplies to help find lost pets.

• Educate the community about how to avoid losing or becoming separated from their pets.

• Educate the community about what steps to take once they have lost their pet(s).

• Educate the community about what to do/what not to do when spotting lost or stray pets.

• Once a pet has been deemed to have been “lost” the charity will communicate with the owner to share calming signals techniques and gather information on the lost pet.  If the pet is lost in Summit County, then we organize a team of volunteers to: hang signs, create flyers, purchase bait food and set traps, set out comfort stations & pet-beds, set up game-cameras, as well as organize search parties to look for lost pets.  

• If the pet is lost outside of Summit County, then we can consult remotely via phone, text or facebook messenger with the owners.

• Post lost pets to various social media along with updates and what to do/not do to help locate lost pets.

• Maintain internet website as well as social media sites to educate and inform the public.

STEPS TO FOLLOW IF YOUR PET WENT MISSING:        

• CALL SUMMIT ANIMAL CONTROL TO REPORT LOST- 970-668-8600

• CALL SUMMIT SHELTER TO REPORT LOST- 970-668-3230

• CALL SUMMIT LOST PET RESCUE- 970-423-5701

COMFORT/SCENT STATIONS- PLACE OUT OWNER’S DIRTY CLOTHES ASAP IN AREA WHERE DOG WAS LAST SEEN (THEY CAN SMELL FOR MILES, SO THESE SCENTS CAN HELP DRAW THEM BACK). ALSO PLACE OUT THEIR PET BED.  IF MISSING PET HAS A SIBLING PET, RUB TOWELS ON THE SIBLING PET AND LEAVE THOSE OUTSIDE AS WELL FOR SCENTS.

• SHARE ON THE FOLLOWING FACEBOOK PAGES:

  • SUMMIT LOST PET RESCUE

  • SUMMIT COUNTY LOVES THEIR PETS

  • DOG GONE SUMMIT COUNTY

  • ONE MAN’S JUNK SUMMIT COUNTY

    • POST A PIC PICTURE AND NAME OF LOST ANIMAL

    • DATE, TIME, EXACT LOCATION LOST

    • PHONE NUMBER OF OWNER TO CALL OR TEXT IF SEEN

    • DESCRIBE ANIMAL- SHY, SKITTISH, FRIENDLY, WHAT COLOR COLLAR, ETC

​

• SIGNS- HANG NEON FOAMBOARD SIGNS AND WRITE IN BIG BLACK MARKER:“LOST DOG”, “TYPE OF DOG”, “CALL/TEXT- XXX-XXX-XXXX”, “DO NOT CHASE”

​

• FLYERS- HANG ON BUS STOPS, SUMMIT DAILY BOXES, GAS STATIONS, LOCAL RESTAURANTS & BUSINESSES, NEIGHBORS CARS, AND SHARE WITH FEDEX/UPS/POST OFFICE/MAILMAN/GARBAGE TRUCK DRIVERS, ETC

​

CLICK HERE FOR LOST DOG FLYER TEMPLATE

​

CLICK HERE FOR LOST CAT FLYER TEMPLATE

​

• SHARE ON WWW.NEXTDOOR.COM

​

• SHARE ON WWW.PAWBOOST.COM

​

• CALL YOUR MICROCHIP COMPANY AND REPORT LOST

​

• CALL ALL LOCAL VETS IN THE AREA

​​​

• POST SIGN IN OWNERS YARD- “LOST DOG LIVES HERE”​

​

• GO SEARCHING ON FOOT-

  • DO NOT CALL OR CHASE PET

  • BE PATIENT & CALM
  • IF MISSING PET HAS A SIBLING PET, TAKE THEM WITH YOU ON EVERY SEARCH TO SPREAD THE SCENT​

  • KEEP SMELLY TREATS WITH YOU AND A LEAD LEASH. 

  • IF YOU SEE HIM, HE MAY NOT RECOGNIZE YOU RIGHT AWAY (DON’T TAKE THIS PERSONALLY, ITS PART OF SURVIVAL MODE, THEY GET CONFUSED). 

    • GET LOW TO GROUND, TURN BACK, DON’T MAKE EYE CONTACT AND DO NOT CALL HIS NAME OR CHASE.  HE’S IN FLIGHT OR FIGHT MODE AND WILL RUN.  IF YOU SEE HIM, DO THESE STEPS AND TOSS SOME TREATS HIS WAY.  ACT LIKE YOU’RE EATING AND DROPPING CRUMBS TO SEE IF IT’LL ENTICE HIM TO COME. BUILD TRUST. LET HIM COME TO YOU.

  • KEEP CHIP BAG OR PAPER WITH YOU AND MAKE CRINKLY SOUND. 

​

• WINDOW MARKERS ON YOUR CAR- WRITE "LOST DOG, DESCRIPTION, LOCATION, PHONE NUMBER"

​

• LOOK ON CRAIGSLIST FOR FREE PETS OR PETS FOR SALE (JUST IN CASE SOMEONE PICKED UP YOUR LOST PET AND IS TRYING TO SELL)

​

• LOOK ON PETFINDER.COM & PETHARBOR.COM

​

Those with information about this lost pet should contact Summit Lost Pet Rescue, Inc. (“SLPR”) at 970-423-5701.   IMPORTANT:  Those reading this flyer are not authorized to conduct or assist in pet searches for, or on behalf SLPR, without first registering with and executing a waiver and release with SLPR at www.lostpetrescue.org/volunteer.  Those who conduct or assist in pet searches without first doing so, do so at their own risk, peril and liability.

 ​

Indy & Olly’s got its start in 2019 out of Evergreen, Colorado, when our founder decided it was time to honor two of her favorite dogs with a business that gives back. Indy & Olly’s—the company—has several goals:

​

• Help homeless dogs find homes

• Be a platform for promoting dog adoptions, spreading the spay & neuter message and keeping dogs out of shelters.

• Care for the earth and its inhabitants in all we do.

Indy & Olly’s is a for-purpose dog bandana company that helps dogs in animal rescues and shelters get adopted by improving pet adoption photos…because dogs look #betterwithbandanas.

Visit https://www.indyollys.com/to see the great Valentine bandanas! 

Liver shunts (technically called portosystemic shunts) are not that common in dogs, but if you are an aficionado of certain breeds or if your dog develops liver disease, you may find yourself in desperate need of information. Read on to learn all about liver shunts in dogs.

First, we need to review some canine anatomy and physiology. A network of veins (called the portal system) drains blood away from the digestive tract. This blood carries nutrients, hormones, and waste material and is supposed to enter the liver before it travels to the rest of the body. The liver takes what it needs to function properly and also detoxifies the blood before sending it onward.

A shunt is defined as a passage “that allows the flow of materials between two structures that are not usually connected.” A portosystemic shunt is, specifically, an abnormal blood vessel (or vessels) that connects the “portal” system draining the digestive tract to the “systemic” circulatory system feeding the rest of the body, thereby bypassing the liver.

Liver shunts can be divided into two categories: those that are present at birth (congenital shunts) and those that develop later in life (acquired shunts).

Congenital shunts are most common, being responsible for approximately 80 percent of cases. Dogs are usually quite young (less than 3 years old) when they start experiencing symptoms. A genetic cause is known for some breeds and suspected in others. Breeds at higher than average risk for congenital liver shunts include the Yorkshire Terrier, Dachshund, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer, Lhasa Apso, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Havanese, Toy and Miniature Poodle, Pekingese, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Irish Wolfhound, Old English Sheepdog, Samoyed, Irish Setter, Labrador Retriever, Doberman Pinscher, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd.

Acquired shunts typically develop when blood pressure within the veins connecting the digestive tract to the liver becomes elevated—most often because of diseases that cause liver scarring (cirrhosis). Dogs with acquired liver shunts tend to experience symptoms when they are older in comparison to those diagnosed with congenital shunts.

Dogs with liver shunts generally have some combination of the following symptoms:

• Poor growth (congenital shunts)
• Poor appetite and/or eating unusual things
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst and urination
• Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine due to the formation of bladder stones
• Vomiting, which may contain blood
• Diarrhea, which may contain blood
• Behavioral changes like mental dullness, staring vacantly, poor vision, unsteadiness, circling, and head pressing

These symptoms are obviously not unique to liver shunts. A veterinarian will start the diagnostic process by taking a complete health history, performing a physical examination, and running some basic tests such as blood work and a urinalysis. If he or she thinks that a liver shunt is likely, additional testing will be necessary to reach a definitive diagnosis. Possibilities include bile acid tests, blood ammonia levels, abdominal X-rays, abdominal ultrasound, and advanced imaging studies. Your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of each test with you based on the specifics of your dog’s case.

The type of liver shunt that a dog has and their age and overall condition determines what type of treatment is best. Most small breed dogs who have congenital shunts have just one abnormal blood vessel that is located outside of the liver. These are the most amenable to surgical correction. A single shunt that is located within the liver itself is more common in large breed dogs. These are still usually best treated with surgery, but the procedure is a little more difficult. Dogs with acquired shunts tend to have multiple, abnormal vessels and may be poorer candidates for surgery due to their underlying illness.

Surgery for liver shunts centers on blocking the flow of blood through the abnormal vessels so that more of it travels through the liver. This can involve the application of devices specifically designed to do this (e.g., ameroid constrictors or cellophane bands) or tying off the vessels with suture material. Oftentimes, the abnormal vessels cannot be completely blocked off all at once without the dog developing serious side effects like intestinal damage. Ameroid constrictors and cellophane bands are designed to get around this problem since they cause the vessel to narrow over time, which gives the body a chance to adjust.

Medical management for liver shunts can be used to improve a dog’s condition prior to surgery, when surgery is not in a dog’s best interests, or when surgery is unable to entirely correct the problem. Veterinarians typically prescribe a diet that has just enough protein for the dog but no “extra,” which reduces the byproducts of protein digestion (e.g., ammonia) that can make a dog’s symptoms worse. Research indicates that soy protein may be a better option in comparison to meat-based sources of protein. Feeding several smaller meals throughout the day is also beneficial.

Medications also play an important role in the medical management of liver shunts. Antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the number of bacteria in the gut, and enemas can be given to physically remove feces and bacteria from the colon. Oral lactulose, a type of indigestible sugar, is used to encourage rapid transit of stool through the intestinal tract and to lower the pH within the gut, which reduces the absorption of ammonia.

Approximately one-third of dogs with liver shunts can be successfully managed with dietary changes and medications, according to Dr. Karen Tobias, professor of small animal soft tissue surgery and a board-certified surgeon at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dogs who have liver shunts that are located outside of the liver and that are surgically corrected using ameroid constrictors or cellophane bands have the best prognosis, with around 85 percent being clinically normal several months after surgery, according to Tobias. In comparison, dogs with shunts that are located within the liver have a greater risk of complications although many still do very well after surgery.

Carol Novello is the founder of Mutual Rescue™ and author of “Mutual Rescue: How Adopting a Homeless Animal Can Save You, Too” (new in paperback, April 2020). Mutual Rescue is a national initiative that highlights the connection between people and pets in order to inspire and support life-saving efforts in communities across the nation and world. Mutual Rescue’s first short film, “Eric & Peety,” went viral around the globe and has been viewed more than 100 million times. A former senior software executive at Intuit, Carol served as president of Humane Society Silicon Valley for nearly a decade and earned her MBA from Harvard Business School. She is proud to include several rescue animals in her family. Visit www.MutualRescue.org.

Visit Cindy at https://yourenergyhealer.com

Cindy Myers Ambassador to Animals, Humans and Spirit

I’ve always been a good listener. However, twenty years ago, I would have found it hilarious if you told me that I’d be working as an intuitive energy healer while living on an alpaca farm! But, here I am with a herd of 24 alpacas, 3 dogs and 3 cats working as a Medical Intuitive! I believe that the sum of our life experiences can lead us to our true calling in life. There are many paths to finding our way to our authentic selves.

It took many years, multiple and diverse career paths, and tough life challenges to finding my true calling. The life lessons were invaluable that led me to this meaningful life. I learned about frequencies and Radars while working as an Engineer for the Navy and now I am a Radar! I learned all about stress and how harmful it is to our body, mind and spirit while being my mom’s caregiver through her final years. And there was an amazing gift I created out of the house fire I experienced due to an arsonist. Losing my belongings led me to discovering myself. And I found the courage to embrace and pursue my calling of intuitive energy work. It is an honor and humbles me to do this work for people and their animals.

I love sharing my intuitive abilities with both animals and humans. I look forward to helping you restore your energy balance so you can live an abundantly joy filled life!

 Care & Wellness, Emergency Situations, Pet Services

Marijuana (or cannabis) refers to the dried parts of the Cannabis plant. Cannabis has been used since 500 BC as an herbal medicine, and for products such as rope, textiles, and paper. Today, cannabis is primarily used for medicinal or recreational purposes. Cannabis can be smoked like a cigarette, inhaled via vaporizers, or ingested via food and drink.

Cannabis contains more than 100 different chemicals (or compounds) called cannabinoids. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinoid that has the most psychoactive effects. It is also the compound responsible for some of cannabis’ medicinal uses, such as treating nausea and improving appetite in cancer patients. Other compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD), have shown promise for medicinal use and do not have psychoactive effects.

While cannabis use is not new, its use for recreational purposes is more recent. In the 1970s, cannabis was criminalized in the US when it was labeled a Schedule 1 (Class I) drug. In the 1990s, individual states began legalizing cannabis for medicinal use, and more recently, 9 states have legalized it for recreational use. Legalization for recreational use in Canada occurred in 2018. As with any other medication, the increased accessibility to the drug has led to an increase in accidental exposure in pets.

Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by cannabis in various ways; by inhaling second-hand smoke, eating edibles (baked goods, candies, chocolate bars, and chips containing cannabis), or ingesting cannabis directly (in any form). Most exposures are accidental when curious pets discover access to the drug or when they are present in the same room with a person smoking cannabis. Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains, which means the effects of cannabis are more dramatic and potentially more toxic when compared to humans. A small amount of cannabis is all it takes to cause toxicity in cats and dogs.

Regardless of the method of exposure, accurate and complete information is imperative to treating the patient successfully. For example, ingestion of a 'pot brownie’ needs different treatment than inhalation, because eating the brownie requires treatment for cannabis and chocolate toxicity, whereas inhalation may require additional treatment for respiratory irritation.

Like most drugs, the effects of cannabis are based on chemistry. The drug enters the body via inhalation or ingestion and binds with specific neuroreceptors in the brain, altering normal neurotransmitter function. THC interacts with neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. Humans and pets have two types of receptors in their bodies. One type, CB1, affects the central nervous system, and the other, CB2, affects the peripheral tissues. Although not all the pharmacologic mechanisms triggered by cannabinoids have been identified, it is thought that CB1 is responsible for most of the effects of cannabis.

Everything that enters the body has to exit the body. THC is very lipid-soluble, which means that it is easily stored in the fatty tissue in the liver, brain, and kidneys before being eliminated from the body. THC is metabolized in the liver and the majority (65-90%) is excreted in the feces, while a small percentage (10-35%) is eliminated through the kidneys. The drug has to be metabolized and excreted for the effects to wear off.

Cannabis is considered to have a high margin of safety for people; however, not all people, and certainly not all pets follow a single pattern of intoxication. A small amount may affect one pet more than another, so there is no official safe level of exposure. Differences in age, health status, and body size are some of the factors that can lead to toxicity differences.

Luckily, cannabis intoxication is seldom fatal. The average marijuana cigarette contains about 150 mg of THC. The minimum lethal oral dose of THC in pets is fairly high; however, deaths have been noted after ingestion of foods containing highly concentrated cannabis, such as medical-grade THC. In fact, fatalities were very rare until the development of medical-grade products.

Many of the signs of intoxication are neurological. Pets may become wobbly and uncoordinated. They may be hyperactive, disoriented, and very vocal. Their pupils may dilate, giving them a wild-eyed appearance, and they may drool excessively or vomit. They may also develop urinary incontinence (i.e., urine leakage). In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma can result.

Physical signs include low or elevated heart rate and blood pressure and slowed respiration rate (breathing rate). Lethargy, and increases or decreases in body temperature may also be observed. Fortunately, these side effects are usually short-lived, but they can still be dangerous and make the pet quite miserable.

Diagnosis is based on an accurate history and clinical signs. Although there are tests to determine the level of THC in the urine, the results take time, making them impractical. Human urine drug-screening tests are quicker but are not dependable in pets. The diagnosis is made much more quickly, and treatment initiated, when responsible pet owners provide accurate information regarding the pet's exposure.

When a toxin enters the body, often the first line of defense is to get it out. If the toxicity is discovered shortly after ingestion, your veterinarian may induce vomiting to prevent further absorption of the toxin. Two factors may interfere with this early defensive strategy. First, the signs of toxicity may manifest only after the drug has been absorbed, meaning it is already in the system. Second, cannabis has an anti-emetic effect which inhibits vomiting. In life-threatening cases, the stomach may be pumped (gastric lavage). Activated charcoal may be administered every 6-8 hours to neutralize the toxin. Enemas are also used to reduce toxin absorption from the GI tract.

The second line of defense in cannabis toxicity involves providing supportive care until the effects of the drug wear off. Medications and supportive care to regulate the pet's heart rate, respiration, and body temperature are used if needed. Since the pet may be lethargic, with no desire to eat or drink, IV fluids can help prevent dehydration, support blood pressure, and maintain organ function. Anti-anxiety medications can minimize agitation. To prevent self trauma while the pet is disoriented and uncoordinated, confinement in a safe, comfortable space is helpful. Noise should be kept to a minimum to decrease sensory stimulation.

The bottom line, when it comes to cannabis use and pets, is similar to that with other drugs in the home: Be careful. Keep all forms of cannabis, medical or recreational, out of reach of your pet. Consider storage in high cabinets or in locked drawers when not in use. Keep pets in a separate and well-ventilated room, away from second-hand smoke. Remember that pets have a good sense of smell and will be tempted to eat candies, chips, chocolates, and cannabis directly if accessible. If you notice suspicious behavior in your cat or dog and cannabis exposure is a possibility, take your pet to your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital for treatment.

A dog may vomit simply because he’s eaten something disagreeable or gobbled down too much food, too fast. But vomiting can also indicate something far more serious-your dog may have swallowed a toxic substance, or may be suffering from a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Vomiting can also be associated with gastrointestinal and systemic disorders that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

•  Bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract
• Diet-related causes (diet change, food intolerance, ingestion of garbage)
• Foreign bodies (i.e. toys, bones, pieces of chewies) in the gastrointestinal tract
•  Intestinal parasites
• Acute kidney failure
• Acute liver failure or gall bladder inflammation
•  Pancreatitis
• Post-operative nausea
• Ingestion of toxic substances
• Viral infections
• Certain medications or anesthetic agents
•  Bloat
• Heatstroke
• Car sickness
• Infected uterus

Vomiting that occurs sporadically or irregularly over a longer period of time can be due to stomach or intestinal inflammation, severe constipation, cancer, kidney dysfunction, liver disease or systemic illness.

An occasional, isolated bout of vomiting may not be of concern. However, frequent or chronic vomiting can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colitis, intestinal obstruction or parvovirus. If your dog’s vomiting is not an isolated incident, please bring him to the vet right away for a complete examination and diagnostic testing.

The causes of vomiting are so varied that sometimes obtaining a diagnosis can be difficult, so it’s important to give your veterinarian as much information as possible and indicate if other signs are also occurring. What to watch for:

• Frequency of vomiting. If your dog vomits once and proceeds to eat regularly and have a normal bowel movement, the vomiting was most likely an isolated incident.
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Lethargy
• Blood in vomit
• Weight loss
• Change in appetite
• Increase or decrease in thirst or urination

Please see your vet if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, if your dog vomits more than once during the course of a day, or if vomiting persists past one day

Dr. Lori Cesario is a Board-Certified Veterinary Oncologist currently practicing in Southern California.  She is originally from Long Island, New York but is happy to now call California home.

She received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Bioscience from Penn State University.  After college, Dr. Cesario worked in a lab at Cornell University developing mouse models of human prostate and mammary cancers, amongst others.  She then attended Ross University Veterinary School, with a clinical year at the University of Wisconsin.  She completed two one-year internships: a small animal rotating internship at the University of Illinois, followed by an oncology specialty internship at NC State.  She then returned to the Midwest for an oncology residency at Michigan State University.

 Dr. Cesario is committed to maintaining a high quality of life in patients that are feeling well and improving the lives of patients that are feeling poorly.  She uses her expertise to develop tailored treatment plans for each individual patient and family.  Her professional interests include electrochemotherapy and histiocytic sarcoma. 

Understanding that many families head to the internet after a cancer diagnosis, she wanted to ensure that there were excellent resources there waiting for them.  She developed the Dog Cancer Roadmap program so families would have a reliable resource for dog cancer information online.  Having a dog diagnosed with cancer is very difficult, and nobody should have to experience it alone.

When she is not at the hospital, Dr. Cesario enjoys hiking, pilates, and plant-based cooking.  


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Visit https://yourenergyhealer.com/about/ to learn more about the December webinars.

What food can your dog have on Thanksgiving?

You need to listen to learn more.

Happy Thanksgiving! 

Canine Cancer Academy

The WINPRO story goes back to the 1980’s at Iowa State University where there were trials done to try and save the lives of weaning baby piglets. During this stressful time young piglets are taken away from mom. Many died from the stress. So researchers at Iowa State started putting spray-dried blood plasma into the pigs’ starter diet. It had a profound and positive effect. So instead of losing lots of pigs, farmers lost hardly any. And a revolution was born.

Over the years, blood proteins found in plasma have been used to improve the lives of many animals including dairy calves, lambs, kids, goats, juvenile fish, and horses. In late 2016...

And the results were nothing short of astonishing.

Today, WINPRO is the only company to offer a line of plasma-powered health products formulated especially for dogs. Dogs could be the perfect species for blood proteins as they are highly active, athletic and get into lots of stuff, both good and bad. Dogs have to deal with a lot of stressors, both inside their bodies and in the environment around them. Where you have stress, you will find inflammation.

By reducing inflammation, WINPRO helps promote a normal, healthy dog free of issues and able to do the things it loves to do.

This is what WINPRO is designed to do. It works fast.

Our passion is to help keep dogs doing the things they love to do. This is the WINPRO way - we live it every day. And why we backup our science with a money-back guarantee. Because WINPRO works.

• Scientific Proof
• Our Formula & Our Production Process

PugHearts of Houston Pug Rescue is a true 501(c)(3) non-profit charity founded in the Houston area by dedicated pug owners and lovers.  Our mission is the rescue, rehabilitation and permanent placement of needy pugs into loving homes.

Get involved in their fundraiser:

http://www.pughearts.com/ph_pugsonthebayou.aspx

http://www.pughearts.com/default.aspx

Pughearts would love your help! 

Purchase a mask on the barknwag.com and part of the proceed will go to PugHearts! 

Please keep you dog healthy and go to the vet! Also, if you are rescuing a dog. 

By T. J. Dunn, Jr., DVM

It is always nice to know what to expect when you visit the veterinarian. Why? Because nobody likes surprises. So what what is going through the doctor's mind when your dog (or cat) is presented.  

Let's just say you came in for your pet's routine yearly vaccination. Usually this is a good time for the doctor to take a really close look at your pet -- a good time to do an annual physical exam.

Written notes on the patient's medical chart are absolutely necessary in order to maintain a good medical history.  So when the doctor isn't probing and pulling, there will be some written data being recorded. Later this information is transferred to a computerized program that sorts and organizes yearly reminders, prescription data, important patient events or surgeries and billing data.  

Computers are an excellent way for the veterinarian to access current information on new techniques, medications and procedures. Plus, as a way to access continuing education references, the computer and Internet have opened up libraries of information on dog (and cat) care.

A good physical exam includes taking the patient's temperature.  Normal temperature for a dog or cat varies between 101 and 102.5 degrees; that's a bit higher than our normal temperature. So if you see the veterinarian lift the pet's tail up and come at it with the thermometer, don't be shocked! The temperature is taken rectally and causes no discomfort. Every so often a seemingly healthy pet tips off the veterinarian that something isn't quite right simply by having an elevated temperature.

Skin and coat are really excellent indicators of the pet's health status. Look at this dog's coat and you can see right away that  there is something wrong. The coat should be shiny, not brittle and coarse, and the skin should be clean and not greasy and flaky.

The vast majority of skin and coat problems are associated with grain-based diets of poor quality and during the physical exam your veterinarian should inquire about the pet's diet. Two weeks on a meat-based diet and this dog will often look, feel and act much better. (Visit our nutrition section for some good advice on the matter.)

Many types of dermatological problems are avoided if the dog or cat is consuming an optimum diet. In some cases, adding a supplement such as, a mega fatty acid supplement is the key factor in avoiding repeated episodes of hot spots and other skin afflictions.

Your veterinarian should examine both ears, too. Obvious infections and allergies are problems the owner can see, like the infected ear on this dog. But often, deep in the ear canal is where infections can start and if noticed early, can be eliminated before they get to the stage where the ears look like what you see in the photo (on the right).

Many dogs (and cats) suffer from allergies. Skin and ear infections are commonly the result of repeated allergic episodes. The doctor will show you how to clean the ears and prescribe the right medication if signs of an infection are present. Check your dog's (and cat's) ears and look for any signs of disease.

Every good exam includes getting that stethoscope against the chest and listening to the lungs and paying close attention to the heart sounds. Dogs seldom get pneumonia. Much more common are heart rhythm and heart valve problems. The first way to gain information about a dog's (or cat's) heart is to listen. (If your veterinarian seems not to be listening to you while the stethoscope is plugged into his/her ears, don't be insulted!) If any deviation from normal is detected, further workup is a good idea. A cardiac workup usually entails an EKG to assess the electrical activity of the heart and X-rays or an echocardiogram to evaluate the heart's size and shape.

A careful evaluation of the abdomen must be a part of the physical exam. Every veterinarian has made surprising discoveries while examining "normal" dogs (and cats). Many owners were shocked to find out that their pet had only one normal kidney, or was harboring an undiscovered tumor or was pregnant!  Bladder stones, for instance, can be discovered during a routine physical exam. So in addition to feeling what's on the outside of the pet, what's inside is just as important.

Every good physical exam must include a look into the pet's mouth -- that is if the pet is willing!  Oral hygiene (see our article on dentistry) is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health care. The mouth can harbor infected gums, loose teeth, objects stuck between teeth, tumors and all sorts of other surprises. And often the pet shows no signs of discomfort from even serious oral abnormalities. Older dogs (and cats) especially may have oral hygiene difficulties that would vastly improve if dental and oral treatment was instituted. Be sure the veterinarian takes a look!

Although the eyes may not need a thorough exam where the veterinarian inspects the interior of the eye with special instruments, at least a close inspection of the visible eye structures and lids is a part of a complete physical exam. Early cataract formation may be detected, any haziness on the surface of the cornea can be detected and inflammation of the surrounding eye structures can be assessed. The most common difficulties are simple irritations that result from pollen, dust and contact with grasses.

Finally, the paws and toenails should be examined, and any really long nails should be clipped shorter (see How to Trim Toenails). Pad injuries are usually quick to heal and it is a wonder that dogs (and cats) don't cut and puncture their pads more often than they do. 

Now that your pet has had a head-to-toe examination, you and the veterinarian will feel more confident that the pet is healthy. Now the challenge is to keep the pet well!

Image: Courtesy of AVMA

Canine Cancer Academy is a wonderful platform for pet owners. 

Dr. Lori Cesario is a Board-Certified Veterinary Oncologist currently practicing in Southern California.  She is originally from Long Island, New York but is happy to now call California home.

She received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Bioscience from Penn State University.  After college, Dr. Cesario worked in a lab at Cornell University developing mouse models of human prostate and mammary cancers, amongst others.  She then attended Ross University Veterinary School, with a clinical year at the University of Wisconsin.  She completed two one-year internships: a small animal rotating internship at the University of Illinois, followed by an oncology specialty internship at NC State.  She then returned to the Midwest for an oncology residency at Michigan State University.

 Dr. Cesario is committed to maintaining a high quality of life in patients that are feeling well and improving the lives of patients that are feeling poorly.  She uses her expertise to develop tailored treatment plans for each individual patient and family.  Her professional interests include electrochemotherapy and histiocytic sarcoma. 

Understanding that many families head to the internet after a cancer diagnosis, she wanted to ensure that there were excellent resources there waiting for them.  She developed the Dog Cancer Roadmap program so families would have a reliable resource for dog cancer information online.  Having a dog diagnosed with cancer is very difficult, and nobody should have to experience it alone.

When she is not at the hospital, Dr. Cesario enjoys hiking, pilates, and plant-based cooking.  

Sign up on her blog page to receive our weekly educational emails and stay up-to-date with the latest news about canine cancer!

https://www.caninecanceracademy.com