Saturday 26 June 2010

Do Dogs Sweat? Find Out

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Dog Crazy Newsletter

Saturday June 26, 2010    

Do Dogs Sweat? Find Out

Hi Readers,

Sweating is something we all do but rarely think much about.

But do dogs sweat too?

First, lets talk about sweating in humans. It is generally obvious when we sweat. We have perspiration under our arms, foreheads, down our backs, and others sweat everywhere.

Sweating can be annoying.

Why do we sweat? We sweat to dissipate heat. It is our body's mechanism for cooling us down when our bodies are too hot.

But what do dog's do to cool off?


Dogs don't have skin like we do and they can't perspire.

After all, you don't see dogs with soaking wet underarms. And because they have different cooling mechanisms that can be easily overwhelmed, they can often suffer from heat illness, such as
heat stroke
.

Causes of heat related illness are when dogs are left out in the sun, given too much exercise or are shut in a closed car.

We thought this was an interesting topic so we wrote an article about it called
"How Do Dogs Sweat"
.  Take a minute and learn a little trivia and to understand your dog a little better.
This information can save your dog's life.

To protect your dog and to keep him cool, always ensure he has shade and plenty of fresh clean water.

Until next time,

Dr. Jon


P.S. If you didn't catch it last week, check out this behavior question about dogs.  Why do dogs chase cars? Find out - go to:
http://www.petplace.com/why-do-dogs-chase-cars



FTAF 12

TODAY'S SPECIAL SAVINGS OFFER

TODAY'S PET TIP

Dog Kisses - Are they Clean or Dirty?

I've heard different old wives tales about whether or not a dog's mouth and "kisses" are clean or not.

What do you think?


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Saturday 12 June 2010

Is Your Dog Afraid of Loud Noises Like Fireworks? 5 Tips to Keep Him Calm

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Dog Crazy Newsletter

Saturday June 12, 2010    

Is Your Dog Afraid of Loud Noises Like  Fireworks? 5 Tips to Keep Him Calm

Hi Readers,

Is your dog afraid of fireworks? Many dogs are. The loud noise of fireworks can send these dogs into a state of panic. Some dogs have even had seizures during fireworks.

4th of July is right around the corner, so it seemed like the right time to talk about this problem. Many cities and municipalities will be having their fireworks displays and neighborhood parties will also be shooting off loud "boomers", so if your dog is frightened by the noise, this could help.

At this time of year, many dog owners complain about their dog's reaction to fireworks. The combination of loud noises and bright lights can scare dogs, even those that don't normally have a history of noise phobias.

Lots of dogs have phobias, and the most common dog phobia is fear of noises.

Let me tell you about my friend's family dog, Ginger. She was adopted from the pound as an adult dog, so I have no idea what breed she is. Ginger is absolutely terrified of thunder, gunshots and fireworks. When she hears these noises, she totally panics. I was at their house one night when it started to thunder. Ginger went from being one of the most laid back dog I've ever met to a total manic mess. She was trying to dig her way into the kitchen cupboards, pacing and whining. The noise terrified her, and she was absolutely miserable.


Ginger

Here is a picture of Ginger having a happy roll in the grass after a nice nap.



Ginger's phobia is not uncommon. Many of our dog lovers have asked about what they can do when their pets become anxious or nervous. It's a real problem, especially now with the upcoming 4th of July holiday.


Some dogs will exhibit signs of fear that can include pacing, panting, trembling, salivating, trying to escape and/or barking. Many dogs will actually injure themselves when trying to escape. (I've even seen dogs that were hit by a car when they tried to flee from noises.)

What can you do to help keep your dog calm during the fireworks this weekend? 

Here are some suggestions:

1. Consider not taking your dog to the fireworks display. Make sure that your dog will be calm at home, or stay home with your dog during the fireworks. Keep your dog confined in a comfortable location if possible.

2. Don't try too hard to reassure your dog during a fearful event with petting, soothing words, or extra attention. This can sometimes exacerbate the problem by reinforcing your dog's fearful response.

3. Some dogs are very sensitive to people's moods and may be influenced by the way that you react to the noise. It is best to act happy and upbeat or to redirect your dog's attention to some absorbing activity.

4. If you must leave your dog at home alone during the fireworks, consider what would make your dog most comfortable. Bring your dog indoors. Would he feel safest in a crate? Try turning on the radio, television, fan or air conditioner as "white noise". Make sure you provide a comfortable hiding place or "safe place" for your dog in case he is scared during the fireworks.

5. Pet anxiety studies have shown that music can have a calming effect on a stressed out pet. I recommend the
Music My Pet CD . This musical CD was created for the specific purpose of calming pets. The classical music tracks were arranged to have a smooth soothing dynamic from beginning to end. And the music is performed using only those instruments that have been proven to have a calming effect on pets (like the harp, flute and piano). Try playing the CD before the fireworks begin to get your dog into a relaxed state, and continue playing it throughout the fireworks.


Want to hear what the music sounds like?  Click here to listen to a sample track from the CD


So, the best way to deal with this issue is to be prepared. Before the fireworks begin, anticipate your dog's reaction to these loud noises. Whenever possible try to avoid exposing your dog to fireworks.  If this is not possible, do everything that you can to make your dog feel more comfortable and secure. Talk to your dog in a light, cheerful tone that sends a comforting message that the noise is no big deal. Encourage your dog to find a quiet restful place to wait out the noise.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Until next time,

Dr. Jon


P.S.   I really believe in the science behind the
Music My Pet CD. This soothing music has helped so many pets through stressful situations, and it could help your pet, too. Would you like to hear a track from this amazing CD? Just click on the CD image below or go to:  www.petproductadvisor.com/musicmypet

 music cd


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music cd

TODAY'S PET TIP

Yard safety Tip

There are several possible hazards in your yard that can cause injury or create problems for your dog.

Some of the possible hazards include:

Sharp nails or wires on fencing

Loose fence boards or areas where pets can sneak out, around or under

Trash tossed or blown into the yard that may be chewed on or ingested

Improperly stored toxins such as rodenticide, slug bait, fertilizer or antifreeze





© Copyright 1999-2010 Intelligent Content Corp., All Rights Reserved
Intelligent Content | 20283 State Road 7, Suite 400 | Boca Raton | FL | 33498
This email was sent to: petownersworldwide@gmail.com

This email was sent by: Intelligent Content
20283 State Road 7, Suite 400 Boca Raton, FL 33498 USA


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