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Dangerous House Plants
Many of us like to bring the outdoors in and have plants growing around the house however, not all of those pretty flowers are safe for your pets. The following is a list of plants that should be kept out of your pets reach or kept outside. *Plants lovers should watch out for the whole Araceae family* Elephants Ear If elephant ear is ingested by your pet, it will cause increased salivation, difficulty swallowing, oral irritation, and vomiting Alocasia If your dog puts this one in their mouth, it could cause mucous membrane irritation, intense burning, and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.…
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The Risk of Lyme Disease and Heartworm
Lyme disease and Heartworm are two common risks associated with owning a dog. For example, the tick isn’t just a single season problem. They’re able to survive until temperatures are near freezing; in Southern Ontario ticks are, nearly, a year-round problem. These pests are the number one cause for Lyme disease in dogs, the most prevalent being the deer tick. Lyme disease is a bacterial illness, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. This illness is spread through a tick bite and travels through the bloodstream of the bitten mammal. The most common symptom of Lyme disease is inflammation in the joints, which can severely limit your dog’s ability to walk. This inflammation may…
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Parasite Prevention
When it comes to your dog’s parasite prevention plan, a combination attack is best. You should use a heartworm preventative in combination with one of these vet recommended repellents. Vectra 3DSide effects:There is a potential for chemical burns at the site of application. Additionally, the ointment may cause restlessness and anxiety. This may be a direct result of the treatment or it may indicate irritation at the site to which it was applied. The treatment may also cause lethargy, panting, racing heart, loose stool, vomiting, fever, and excessive thirst. Active ingredients:• Permethrin – a synthetic form of an insecticidal compound produced by the chrysanthemum flower and degrades quickly in contact…
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I found a lost dog, what do I do now?
If you come across a strange dog on your walk, put safety first, especially if you have your own dog. Don’t approach them. This is because you don’t know if the loose dog is friendly and you don’t know how your dog will react to them in your space, it’s best to stay clear. If you walk your dog in an area where loose dogs or coyotes appear often, think about carrying a small air horn with you. This way, when the dog approaches you, you can use it to scare it off, keeping you and your dog safe. If you are concerned about getting a dog home, carry treats…
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Oh Baby It’s Hot Outside
Living in Southern Ontario means we often handle extreme heat. Dogs aren’t as good at dealing with it as we are. In the summertime, we have to watch out for things like heat stroke and burning paws on the hot sidewalk. Never keep pets in cars or in direct sun on a summer day. In general, with plenty of water and shade, most dogs should be able to cope in warm temperatures, up to about 32˚C. Some products that are available to help cope with heat are; cooling mats and collars like these available on Amazon. Or consider a raised bed, keeping your dog of the ground will be like…
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But It’s Raining!
“It’s raining, it’s pouring, the old man is snoring.” Don’t let the rain keep you and your furry friend inside! Unless it’s pouring or there’s a chance of lightning, there’s no reason you and your dog can’t head on outside for a little training walk. Here are our recommendations to improve this experience: Rain Coat You should both have one! No one wants to walk cold and damp; having a good raincoat for you both will keep you a warm, stylish pair. Also, having a raincoat for your dog will cut down on the wet dog smell! Boots Sometimes we forget about our do’s feet in the rain because it…