Health & Nutrition - PetShopTop

Otitis in cats and dogs

Otitis is the clinical term for ear infections. Ear infections are a common problem in pets. Dogs and cats have deep ear canals that act like megaphones to magnify sound. This means our pets hear better than we do, but it also creates a good environment for ear infections. The deep ear canals tend to trap moisture and wax, creating a warm and humid environment that is ideal for growth of bacteria and yeast.

Why does your dog cough?

The occasional cough in an otherwise healthy dog is usually nothing to worry about. But just like us, when a dog’s coughing becomes a constant or recurrent problem it can be a sign of serious illness. Knowing some of the most common causes of coughing in dogs can help you determine when you need to worry. Coughing is associated with many different diseases in dogs and cats. Here are a few of the most common and some of the available forms of treatment. Coughing Related to Infections Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites can all infect a dog’s upper respiratory tract, lung tissue (pneumonia), airways (bronchitis), or a combination thereof (bronchopneumonia), and cause dogs to cough. Kennel cough is the most common infectious cause of coughing. It can be caused by several different viruses and bacteria, alone or in combination. Canine influenza virus is becoming increasingly prevalent in the United States and leads to symptoms like coughing, fever, and nasal discharge.

Grapes and Their Dried Products (Raisins, Sultanas, and Currants)

Grapes, the fruits of Vitis vinifera, and their dried products (raisins, sultanas, and currants) have been reported to cause renal failure in dogs. The fruits may be ingested raw or cooked as ingredients of fruit cake, mince pies, malt loaf, snack bars, scones, and other baked goods (28). The toxic syndrome has also been observed with consumption of marc (the residue of grapes after pressing). The toxic principle(s) and the exact mechanism of grape-induced nephrotoxicity are still unknown. The latter appears to involve a nephrotoxic agent or an idiosyncratic reaction, leading to hypovolemic shock and renal ischemia. There is considerable variation in the susceptibility of dogs to grapes and their dried products. In a recent study that reviewed 180 reports recorded by the VPIS between August 1994 and September 2007 on the ingestion of Vitisfruits by dogs, some animals were reported to remain asymptomatic after ingesting up to 1 kg of raisins while others died following the ingestion of just a handful.

Can you rely on anti-dander shampoos for your pet?

Pet owners are not shy about spending a pretty penny on their furry friends. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), in 2009 alone, they spent a combined $3.36 billion on services such as grooming and related items such as shampoos. For many allergy-prone animal lovers, these aren't just frivolous purchases; specialty products such as anti-dander shampoos are used in the hopes of making life with beloved pets a little easier. But do they actually work?

Taking care of your dog's paws

Your dogs paws are his foundation. His paws are tough, but not indestructible. In constant contact with a range of surfaces leaves them predisposed to injuries, allergies and irritants. You can help keep your canine companions paws in good condition which he will be forever grateful.

Cancer in dogs: the warning signs

Not too long ago, when a dog owner learned that a dog had cancer, it meant a death sentence for the animal. But, thanks to advances in cancer research, things have changed.

How healthy is your dog?

What does a healthy dog look like? A healthy dog can be described as having bright shiny eyes, a healthy shiny hair coat, good appetite, is able to maintain an ideal body weight, is playful and generally seems "happy". However, dogs can acquire a variety of diseases and conditions. One problem about dogs that are not healthy is that they are very good at hiding their illness just by their nature of survival. They want to appear healthy so they are less vulnerable to predators.

FAQs about dog nutrition

Good nutrition is no accident. It takes time and patience to learn what your dog needs to stay healthy, happy and active. It also takes dedication and perseverance to make sure your dog eats what he should, rather than what he wants. To make your job a little easier, here are some tips to ensure your pet gets all of his nutritional needs met.

Canine distemper virus

Canine distemper is a highly contagious disease caused by canine distemper virus (CDV). It may affect the respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurologic systems in the body. It is generally transmitted through contact with mucous and watery secretions discharged from the eyes and noses of infected dogs. However, it can also be transmitted by contact with urine and other bodily fluids of infected dogs, so your dog may become infected without coming into contact with an infected dog. Air currents and inanimate objects can also carry the virus.

Do small dogs really live longer than big ones?

We want our dogs to be with us for a long and happy life; that's all part of being a good owner. It makes sense, then, that animal lovers would have questions about their dog's life span, especially as it relates to their particular breed. There is a lot of misinformation out there, as well as some that could be confusing for owners.