Dog-Patterned Wall Coverings from Murals Wallpaper

Spruce up your space with these cool modern dog wallpapers from Murals Wallpaper.

Can You Use Human OTC Eye Drops for Dogs?

The post Can You Use Human OTC Eye Drops for Dogs? by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

One morning last summer, I spotted a troubling green discharge in the corner of my dog, Baby’s, right eye. I spend the best part of each day thinking, researching and writing about other dog owners’ canine health and behavior questions. Weirdly, this means I often take my own dog’s hardiness and well-being for granted. For several heartbeats, I experienced the same mixture of indecision and panic that I imagine drives most dog owners straight to use their own human eye drops as eye drops for dogs.

I’ve written enough about dog eyes to recognize the verdant hue of the sludge accumulating in Baby’s eye should be a source of concern. I didn’t know what the problem was, but I marched instinctively to see what over-the-counter eye wash I might have to try and deal with it. Should I reach for Visine or whatever human eye wash or ointment I might have ready at hand? Can human eye drops be used as eye drops for dogs?

For simple dog eye problems, a simple solution

Can you use human OTC eye drops as eye drops for dogs? Photography ©fotokate | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

If you’re reading this, then we’ve both remembered that Google can be our friend and ally. Reading through a number of trustworthy sites, I began to see the same solution: a simple, no-frills, saline solution that is applied with nothing more complex than cotton balls. Over the course of a few days, Baby’s right eye cleared up, and the sleep that accumulated in the corners of her eyes took on their customary white coloration. There was no need for medicated eye drops.

The easiest or most convenient choices, the medicated OTC eye drops and ointments you keep at home, are not the best things to use as eye drops for dogs! In fact, using these as eye drops for dogs can exacerbate the issues at hand, or create new ones that may ultimately cost you more at the vet’s office or cause your dog needless additional pain. Let’s take a look at three of the most common dog eye problems for which you might need to use eye drops for dogs:

1. Dog eye infection
2. Conjunctivitis (a.k.a. pink eye) in dogs
3. Dog eye allergies

1. Treating a dog eye infection

Minor dog eye infections can arise from any number of causes. My dog doesn’t have long hair on her head, and there was no prolapse of the eyelid, so I could rule out hair as a potential irritants as well as cherry eye. It was a hot and dry summer, and there was plenty of loose sand at the park when we hiked. Any kind of foreign body, down to a stray piece of dust blowing into her eye and getting caught there, might’ve led her eyes to produce green discharge.

Couldn’t you just use your basic human over-the-counter eye drops as eye drops for dogs? Well, the active ingredient in Visine is Tetrahydozoline hydrochloride, which narrows the eye’s blood vessels. If your object is to dislodge a bit of mobile debris from your dog’s eye, drugs of any kind are not called for. Use human eye treatments only if and when you get veterinary approval. If you have half an hour or so, you can even make your own saline eye wash for a true home remedy!

2. Conjunctivitis in dogs

Baby’s eyes are always a little red or pink when she first wakes up from a long nap or first thing in the morning, so it’s not usually a reason to get anxious. The most common form of pink eye in dogs is serous conjunctivitis, also called “dry eye.” Similar to the kind of eye infection described above — and frequently a cause of it— is an environmental irritant that prevents a dog’s eye from producing the tears needed to flush it out naturally. There was no swelling or inflammation in Baby’s eye, and the greenish goo was inconsistent with pink eye.

You might be tempted, as I was, to grab your own over-the-counter eye drops out of instinct or force of habit. According to Dr. Kathryn Primm, however, “you will have done nothing to address the reason” for the dog’s ocular discomfort. Basic saline solution and cotton balls, the kinds you can get for about $4 to $5 total at your nearest drug store, constitute a safe and reliable preliminary approach. If the symptoms persist, the discharge takes on the look or scent of pus, and you notice your dog pawing at their face frequently, seek a vet’s advice before turning to medicated eye drops for dogs — or any sorts of washes or ointments.

3. Dealing with dog eye allergies

As Dogster‘s own resident veterinarian, Dr. Eric Barchas has written, “allergies are not a terribly common cause of eye problems in dogs.” Nonetheless, they can occur, and, like my own dog’s eye health issue, tend to be most frequent in the summer months. Like the two conditions we’ve described above, inflammation, redness and watery discharge in one or both of a dog’s eyes might be the result of an environmental allergen or irritant.

Dr. Barchas also notes that the vast majority of canine allergies are, in the first place, caused by fleas, and, in the second, manifest themselves in irritated skin and relentless scratching. Have you started using a different kind of cleaner in the house? Just switched to a scented cat litter in a room where your dog also spends time? Did you just give your dog a bath using a new shampoo? For dogs dealing with a newly arisen eye problem, try to rule out external causes before potentially causing the dog extra difficulties with medicated eye drops or washes.

The bottom line: Don’t use your eye drops as eye drops for dogs and consult a vet with questions!

After three years of writing about dog health issues, I’ve learned two essential things that every dog owner should internalize at the earliest opportunity: Take a moment every day to really look at your dog. During one stretch, I did so many pieces on dog digestive problems, that I made a habit of watching Baby poop as a barometer of her overall health. It wasn’t until I noticed the warning signs of a possible eye infection that I started doing a quick check on her ocular health every morning, too.

The second: Human medications, even “baby” or “child” varieties of popular, name-brand, over-the-counter formulas, can do more harm than good to our dogs. For any minor health issue lasting two days or fewer, there is almost always a simpler, non-medicinal solution that dog owners can turn to. If there’s a longer-term problem your dog is dealing with, or one you fear is developing, your dog’s vet will be glad to suggest the proper eye drops for dogs or eye medications for dogs — ointments, wipes, antibiotics or whatever is prudent— and their proper usage, or direct you to a canine ophthalmologist!

Having trouble giving your dog eye medication? Head here for tips >>

Thumbnail: Photography by fotoedu/Thinkstock.

This piece was originally published in 2017.

About the author

Melvin Peña is a writer, editor, and social media manager who spends most of his time in Durham, North Carolina. His interests include his dog, Baby (of course!), art, hiking, urban farming and karaoke.

Read more about dog eye issues on Dogster.com:

• Keeping an Eye on SARDS and Other Dog Eye Diseases
• New Study Looks for Answers to an Unexplained Eye Disease in Dogs
• Let’s Talk Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment for Dog Eye Ulcers

The post Can You Use Human OTC Eye Drops for Dogs? by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

LEGO Friends Emma’s Mobile Vet

The post LEGO Friends Emma’s Mobile Vet by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Who doesn’t love LEGOs? I’ve been a fan of these fun building blocks since I was a kid, and it’s amazing how many choices there are now. And if you have a young friend who wants to be a veterinarian someday, Emma’s Mobile Vet is a great way to get her started.

Lego Friends Emma’s Mobile Vet.

The set comes with an Emma mini-doll, a dog figure (an adorable Pug named Toffee), van, examination bed, feeding bottle and plate, dog bone, lamp, syringe and grooming brush. Recommended for kids aged 4 and older and retails for $9.99. For more information, visit shop.lego.com/en-US.

About the author

Annie Butler Shirreffs has worked in the pet industry for 20 years and is currently the senior editor of Catster and Dogster magazines. A cat lover since she was a little girl, she has always had feline friends in her life. She and her husband share their Southern California home with their four cats, Agatha, Alastair, Jack and Mathilda, and an ever-changing clowder of foster kittens, all of whom enjoy being testers for cool, new products.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more dog news on Dogster.com:

• 10 Products to Put Spring in Your Dog’s Step
• Inside the Adventures of Rossie Possie
• Meet the Woman and Her Dog Who Run Marathons for a Good Cause

The post LEGO Friends Emma’s Mobile Vet by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Flower Power Collection from Beast and Babe

We’ve got floral fever and the only prescription is Beast and Babe’s new Flower Power collar and leash collection!

How to Navigate a Natural Disaster With Your Dog

The post How to Navigate a Natural Disaster With Your Dog by Phillip Mlynar appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Natural disasters seem to be happening more frequently and wreaking more damage than ever. Since the 80s, climate-based disasters have tripled, and we live in a world where the news bristles with reports about tornadoes, wildfires and hurricanes. The thought of getting hit by a natural disaster can be a terrifying one — especially if you live with a beloved dog. But before you begin to panic, work through this five-point preparedness plan to ensure you and your canine are ready in case disaster strikes.

1. Secure a safe haven for you and your dog

Man wading in flood, carrying dog. Photography ©Shmenny50 | Getty Images.

After Hurricane Katrina, the federal Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006 (PETS) came into effect. The legislation ensures local emergency efforts that deal with large-scale disasters take into account individuals with household pets and service animals. For pet owners, this helps prevent the heartbreaking scenario of turning up to a designated shelter and being told your dog cannot seek refuge inside.

But there’s a catch: Shelters can become full to capacity very quickly, so be smart and have a backup plan. Hotels are a popular choice — but call or email ahead to make sure dogs are welcome. Also, ask family and friends who may live close but not in a fleeing zone if they’d be willing to have a four-legged-friend stay for a while.

2. Assemble your emergency kit

Dog with an emergency first aid kit. Photography ©absolutimages | Getty Images.

The first thing to pack in your emergency kit is food and water. According to Emily Schneider, the ASPCA’s PR director, aim to include enough food for three to seven days. Bottled water is essential: The Humane Society recommends packing an extra gallon of water over whatever your pooch usually consumes in a week. (Keep human and canine water bottles separate.) Don’t overlook food and water bowls for your dog. If space is an issue, grab disposable food containers from a discount store.

Next, think about any medicines your dog has been prescribed. Speak to your vet about extra medications in the case of a disaster situation. Add a mini first-aid kit, too: Antibiotic ointment, tape, cotton bandages, scissors and latex gloves are standard, and throw in a canine first-aid book if you can.

Cleanliness is key, so add poop bags, potty pads or even aluminum foil trays (for your dog to do her inside business in). Oh, and grab some hand sanitizer while you’re stocking up.

3. Prep your paperwork

Emergency preparedness checklist. Photography ©fstop123 | Getty Images.

An emergency kit isn’t just about day-to-day basics like food and accessories — it’s also imperative to include your dog’s paperwork. Adoption records and up-to-date medical records are key; the latter should mention any current medication your dog has been prescribed (including dosage amounts), and it’s vital to include vaccination and rabies records in the packet.

Havoc and panic often break out during disasters, and this can result in dogs becoming separated from their humans. For this reason, both the ASPCA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommend adding photos of your dog to your paperwork. Ideally, include some of you and your canine together, so you can be identified as the dog’s owner. Also, don’t forget to keep your paperwork sealed inside a waterproof folder.

4. Have your dog ready to go

Dog ID tags. Photography ©filo | Getty Images.

You’ve got your food and medical supplies all packed up, and your paperwork is in check — but is your dog physically ready to leave the home yet? You’ll want to have a leash, a harness and some form of carrier ready to be used at a moment’s notice. Most public places require a dog to be leashed. (Remember a spare leash and harness, too.) Bring blankets if you think your canine might need to stay inside a cage for any period of time (and add your contact details to the cage). Also, if you suspect your dog could become spooked or fearful in an evacuation situation, add a muzzle — one your dog can easily breathe and drink through.

Now is also the time to check that your dog’s collar and tag contains up-to-date information. The ASPCA recommends detailing your pet’s name, your phone number and essential medical requirements. They should include city or county license tag and a proof-of-rabies vaccination tag, which some places require your dog to wear by law. Your dog should be microchipped and that information kept up to date with the microchip company. Not only does this increase the chance your dog will be returned to you, but it’s proof that the dog does indeed belong to you.

5. Work out a safe room in your house

Dog lying down, looking tired and sad. Photography ©lempelziv | Getty Images.

If you’re advised to stay home during a disaster, do you know which room to safely retreat to? This is something to figure out ahead of time. In general, the safest rooms are those without windows or glass, because during hurricanes or tornados broken windows and flying debris can become deadly. Consider whether your basement, bathroom or a large, walk-in closet could become your safe room.

Access to fresh water is another key factor for a safe room. If running water isn’t available, get prepared by filling tubs, sinks and even large stock pots with water.

Finally, a word on a couple of disaster-specific situations. During flooding, evacuate to the highest, safest place in your house. Make use of countertops and shelves to elevate your dog to safety if needed. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes or hurricanes, add a dog crate to your safe room and place something sturdy on top of it to protect from falling debris. You can also stockpile helmets for you and your dog — in matching colors if you so desire.

6. Learn lessons from recent disasters

Illustration by Scott MacNeill.

The devastation of Hurricane Katrina inspired the bi-partisan PETS Act to better serve pet owners during disaster relief.

1. After reviewing the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, the ASPCA advised future relief efforts aimed at humans and pets together are more effective than separate initiatives.
2. Hurricane Florence suggests that it’s beneficial to pack more food and water than standard emergency kit guidelines — if space and logistics allow.
3. Natural disasters can impair or wipe out cellphone service — so write down important phone numbers and consider setting up a buddy system, where you and friends or family members chain messages together.
4. The biggest lesson from recent disasters is simple: Evacuate if you are told to evacuate. Stubborn stay-putters place a strain on rescue efforts and increase the danger to themselves and their dogs.

Thumbnail: Photography ©Akabei | Getty Images.

About the author:

Phillip Mlynar spends his days writing about cats, hip-hop and food, often while being pestered by his rescue, a mackerel tabby named Mimosa. His work appears in Vice, Pitchfork, Red Bull, Bandcamp, VinePair and Catster. He’s won various awards at the Cat Writers’ Association Communication Contests, some of which are proudly on display at his local dive bar in New York City.

Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you!

Read more about emergency preparedness for dogs on Dogster.com:

• 7 Storm Preparedness Tips for Dog Owners
• Be Prepared for a Disaster: Our Tips for Evacuating with Dogs
• 10 Ways My Dogs and I Prepare for Natural Disasters

The post How to Navigate a Natural Disaster With Your Dog by Phillip Mlynar appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The Best Dog Food for Itchy Skin

The post The Best Dog Food for Itchy Skin by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

You’re watching TV and hear it again — scratch, scratch, chew, chew. Yes, that sound can be annoying, but that’s nothing compared to how your dog feels trying to get relief from itchy skin or related ailments. So, how do you relieve itchy skin on dogs? One of the best ways to do it is through diet. Let’s look at the best dog food for itchy skin.

First, why do dogs get itchy skin?

Why do dogs get itchy skin in the first place? Photography ©Christian Buch | Getty Images.

Before we break down the best dog food for itchy skin, let’s look at why dogs get itchy. Just like when people get an itch, there are multiple possible reasons for dogs — a major one being allergies. But how to tell? Signs of allergies include itching, rash and hair loss, according to Doug Knueven, DVM, a holistic vet with Beaver Animal Clinic in Beaver, Pennsylvania.

Jean Dodds, DVM, founder of Hemopet, based in Garden Grove, California, says crusty sores with intermittent healing and acute breakouts can be signs of chronic skin infections.

“The most common cause of itchiness and skin self-trauma are allergic reactions to flea bites, environmental allergens and food allergy,” adds Sean J. Delaney, DVM, MS, DACVN (board certified Veterinary Nutritionist of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition), who operates Davis Veterinary Medical Consulting in Davis, California. “Collectively, these allergens work together to cause pruritus, the fancy word used for itchiness, in allergic dogs. Often eliminating or controlling even one of these allergens can lead to a reduction or elimination of signs.”

Dr. Dodds also cites Malassezia yeast infections, dry flaky skin and dandruff as causes of chronic itching, as well as chewing and licking feet.

Whether your dog has all-over itching or hot spots, which Dr. Knueven defines as “just an area of intensely itchy skin,” not treating the cause of your dog’s itching can make things worse, including pyoderma — another fancy word, this time for skin infections.

“Ignoring frequent or aggressive scratching can lead to inflammation and self-trauma and subsequent infection with bacteria and yeast present on the body or in the environment that normally is kept at bay by intact and healthy skin,” Dr. Delaney says.

And those problems can go beyond the physical: “Painful sores can lead to serious stress and behavioral issues with the constant skin irritation and itching,” Dr. Dodds says.

The best dog food for itchy skin

What is the best dog food for itchy skin? Photography ©ra3rn | Getty Images

While topical treatments may provide relief (or even a toy to get your dog’s mind temporarily focused elsewhere), don’t overlook the benefits that come from the inside-out approach. Namely, using food and supplements to help heal the skin while nourishing the body.

“Typically once flea bite preventive strategies are used (e.g., topical flea adulticide), one will try and see if addressing any underlying food allergies will help reduce scratching,” Dr. Delaney says. “This is done — as environmental allergens often cannot be completely avoided — and treatment is more challenging.”

But where to begin when it comes to the best dog food for itchy skin? Veterinarians describe multiple approaches. “Grain- and gluten- free foods are wise to start with, plus limiting meats and fowl to grass-fed rather than grain-fed,” according to Dr. Dodds.

“If skin issues are just a poor-quality coat or skin flakiness, a change to another commercial food slightly richer in essential nutrients that support skin health may be indicated,” Dr. Delaney says. “Key essential nutrients supporting skin health include protein, amino acids (especially an often limiting one, methionine), linoleic acid (the essential fatty acid), vitamin A, some B vitamins and trace minerals like zinc.”

When it comes to foods used to heal that itch, a discussion with your vet about your dog is likely in order because there is clearly no one answer — or cause. “It is important to realize that the protein from animal meats, poultry and fish, as well as from plants such as legumes, tubers and grains can all cause an allergic reaction,” Dr. Delaney says.

And finding what works may not be a case of one and done. “Rotate food sources every four to six weeks but not more often than every two weeks to help induce immune tolerance,” recommends Dr. Dodds.

How to switch your dog to find the best dog food for itchy skin

What is the best way to switch your dog’s diet? Photography ©mediaphotos | Getty Images.

When you change your dog’s diet in order to find the best dog food for itchy skin, avoid going cold turkey. “A switch to a raw diet, or any food change, should be done gradually,” Dr. Knueven says. “Start by adding ¼ the amount of the recommended daily amount of the new food and ¾ of the current diet. After a week, increase it to 50/50. After another week, go to ¾ new food and ¼ previous food. After a week, give just the new food.”

Dr. Delaney has another tip for transitioning to the best dog food for itchy skin. “The effects on the GI tract of a sudden diet change can be minimized by ensuring the new food truly is novel for the pet, and the fat, fiber and moisture levels are kept somewhat similar to the previous diet.”

What not to feed a dog with itchy skin

What should you avoid feeding a dog with itchy skin? Photography © GlobalP | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Then there’s the flip side of determining what to feed a dog plagued by dermatological issues — what not to feed. Again, this can vary. Dr. Dodds recommends an Eastern medicine approach. “Avoid pro-inflammatory ‘hot’ foods in Chinese medicine like chicken and venison, plus related fats, oils and flavorings. Calming foods are turkey and white-colored fish. Avoid shellfish generally.”

Dr. Delaney recommends the above-mentioned novel approach when it comes to determining what food types to avoid. “Even if feeding an uncommonly fed allergen like venison works in many dogs, if a specific allergic dog has always been fed venison, a diet that uses a common food like chicken may be a better choice if the chicken is ‘novel’ or new to them.

“A food that has never been fed to a dog or that is novel to them is often fed in a limited-ingredient diet when food allergy is suspected or needs to be treated,” Dr. Delaney adds. “The ingredients are limited to reduce the potential number of allergens the dog is exposed to.

Finally, Dr. Knueven likes the DIY approach, preferring a balanced raw diet. “I think the benefit is especially apparent for dogs with allergies,” he says.

Should you supplement?

Will supplements help your dog’s itchy skin? Photography ©alphaspirit | Getty Images.

Along with changing the diet, you can also look into supplements that may help. “Fish oil supplementation can help decrease the inflammation of allergies, and probiotics can help rebalance the immune system,” Dr. Knueven says.

However, Dr. Delaney says, “At times, fatty acid supplements may be suggested, but it is best to select a food that already has an appropriate fatty acid profile than try to supplement a food that doesn’t.”

Dr. Dodds suggests oral supplements, as well as a topical one to help Scooby stop scratching. “Dogs must have plenty of omega-3 fatty acids plus some omega-6 fatty acids; coconut oil in moderation (as it’s high in fat) and apple cider vinegar in the food.” Topically, Dr. Dodds recommends green tea on sores and for foot soaks.

Dr. Delaney cautions that some human foods intended to help might actually hurt. “It is important to remember that any enjoyed treats should be cautiously used in case they introduce food allergens that are not novel or tolerated in a food-allergic dog.”

When to expect results

How soon after switching to a diet to combat itchy skin should you expect to see results? Photography ©ThamKC | Getty Images

Just as people want to see pounds lost on the scale the second day of a diet, when it comes to the best dog food for itchy skin, we often want immediate results after making a change in diet or adding a supplement. Veterinarians cited as little as a few days up to several months, depending on your dog’s condition.

“If there is an underlying food allergy, then response can take up to 12 weeks in some cases, with 8 weeks being more common,” Dr. Delaney says. “If the skin issue is solely related to poor skin or coat quality due to a diet that isn’t meeting a pet’s specific needs for an essential nutrient like a fatty acid, improvement may be noticed in as early as several weeks.”

Hopefully, this information serves as food for thought when it comes to giving your furry friend some relief. It might just result in the only scratching is you scratching his belly or behind his ears.

---

Is your dog susceptible to itchy skin?

Dogs with white or lighter coats are more susceptible to skin issues. Photography ©GlobalP | Getty Images

Veterinarians point out that any breed or dog can have allergies, but some may be more prone to skin issues. There are a couple different forms of “skin deep” traits that may boost allergy propensity.

“Dogs with white or lighter coat colors can be more susceptible because of the effects of sunlight exposure,” says W. Jean Dodds, DVM.

Sean J. Delaney, DVM, MS, DACVN, Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, cited breeds with extra skin folds as more likely to have skin diseases or issues. “If a pet lover is considering a specific pure breed as a new family member, it is best to discuss this concern, as well as any others that may be more prevalent, with their veterinarian.”

Dr. Dodds adds that some underlying diseases can make some dogs more prone to skin issues, with the following as just some examples:

1. Endocrinological — Hypothyroidism and thyroiditis
2. Hyperactive adrenal function — Cushing’s disease
3. Systemic autoimmune diseases — Discoid lupus, systemic lupus, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Sjögren (or Sjögren’s) syndrome

---

Fleas or food — which is the foe?

While either cause is painful, a trip to the vet is the first step in determining whether your dog’s itching and scratching is caused by fleas or food.

“Both can lead to self-trauma and infection,” says Sean J. Delaney, DVM, MS, DACVN, Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist from the American College of Veterinary Nutrition. “The veterinarian will then treat any infection as well as address the root cause that led to the infection.”

Doug Knueven, DVM, a holistic veterinarian, starts with the “what’s most likely” approach.

“Flea allergy is the most common skin allergy,” Dr. Knueven says. “If an animal has fleas and is itching, I consider it a flea allergy until proven otherwise. The best way to rule out a food allergy is to switch the dog to a novel diet for eight weeks. If the skin clears, then he was allergic to something in the previous diet.”

Your dog can also be tested to pinpoint any allergens. W. Jean Dodds, DVM, describes the two types: “Serum-based environmental allergy screening (trees, weeds, grasses, pollens, fungi, molds, dust, fleas, etc.) and saliva-based (not serum-based) food-sensitivity testing.”

Tell us: What is the best dog food for itchy skin? What helped your dog stop itching?

Thumbnail: Photography by cmannphoto/istock.

About the author

Elizabeth Anderson Lopez is an award-winning writer based in Lake Forest, California. She and her husband have many pets, including two English Bull Terrier rescues named Dexter and Maybelene. You can contact her at fromconcepttocontent.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about dog food on Dogster.com:

• Using Coconut Oil for a Dog’s Itchy Skin
• Can Dogs Eat Carrots? If So, Are Carrots Good for Dogs?
• Dog Digestive System Basics — How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Digest Food?

The post The Best Dog Food for Itchy Skin by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Sounds That Scare Dogs — And What to Do About Them

The post Sounds That Scare Dogs — And What to Do About Them by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dogs don’t need to see something scary to turn into puddles of panic. There are tons of sounds that scare dogs, unfortunately. Certain sounds that scare dogs can cause them to pace, drool, shake, shadow you or desperately seek a safe refuge like inside the bathtub.

Some dogs with noise phobias can become petrified with fear even before the dreaded sound arrives, because they pick up on pre-sound warning cues.

“My dog, Rusty, is terrified of the smoke detector in our kitchen,” says Nicholas Dodman, BVMS, professor emeritus at Tufts University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and lead veterinarian at the Center for Canine Behavior Studies in Salisbury, Connecticut. “He has learned that turning on our indoor grill may cause the smoke alarm to go off, so he starts to shake and tremble with fear when he sees us bring out the indoor grill. So, I distract him in another room while my wife, Linda, works the indoor grill. Rusty has learned what we call a behavioral chain, a common occurrence in dogs with noise phobias.”

What are some common sounds that scare dogs?

What sounds scare dogs? Photography ©Sonja Rachbauer| Getty Images

By definition, veterinarians and animal behaviorists use the term “noise phobia” to describe the intense and irrational fear displayed by some dogs to certain sounds. It is important to make the distinction that fear is a normal emotional response to a real or perceived threat or situation, such as dreading the anticipated pain from a vaccination needle. However, fear can escalate to a phobia, an exaggerated and irrational response that can completely emotionally cripple a dog.

Topping the list of sounds that scare dogs:

1. thunderstorms
2. fireworks
3. loud trucks
4. gunshots
5. people yelling
6. squawking pet parrots
7. security alarms
8. smoke detectors

But your dog may develop a noise phobia to more unusual sounds based on past experience, such as the wheels of a skateboard, the buzzer on a game show on TV or the popping of bubble wrap used to pad packages.

Sounds that scare dogs are a pretty common problem

Sounds that scare dogs aren’t uncommon, unfortunately. Photography ©igorr1 | Getty Images.

Sounds that scare dogs and escalate into noise phobia in dogs are more common than you may realize. Dr. Dodman estimates that close to 50 percent of dogs have some signs of fear and anxiety to sounds, sights and situations. But there is no study known that breaks down the percentage of dogs with fears or phobias to perceived scary sounds.

“Fear and anxiety rank as the No. 1 issue with dogs,” says Dr. Dodman, who ran the Animal Behavior Clinic at Tufts for more than two decades and is a best-selling pet author. “No one knows for sure, but it may have to do with their physical size, shape, structure, their temperaments and/or environmental influences.”

Most of Dr. Dodman’s canine clients being treated for thunderstorm phobia tended to be large and hairy. He has treated more breeds like German Shepherd Dogs, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs for noise phobias than he has for breeds like Greyhounds, Shih Tzus or Dachshunds.

“A dog’s coat is a perfect receptacle for an electric charge, especially dogs with long-haired coats,” he notes. “Things and animals can get statically charged in a storm.”

Signs of fear

Is your dog hiding? He might have a noise phobia. Photography ©Alexandr Zhenzhirov | Getty Images

How a dog reacts to a fearful sound also depends on whether or not his best friend – you — are in the room or the dog is home alone.

“Clinical signs can differ, but if you are with the dog when the noise occurs, the typical behavior is for the dog to go into Velcro mode and be close to you, even press into you as the dog shakes and trembles with fear,” Dr. Dodman says. “But if you are not present to provide solace to the dog, separation anxiety is also usually present. These dogs are in extreme anxious states and tend to vocalize, have accidents on the floor and desperately try to hide or escape what they regard to be a house of horrors.”

Other signs of sounds that scare dogs can include: inappropriate chewing (your shoes, the television remote, etc.), drooling, excessive barking, diarrhea and vomiting, digging (including the living room rug), panting heavily, pacing and displaying “whale eye” — a panicky look in which you can see the whites of the eyes.

Tools to calm a noise phobia

While there is no one cure or one-size-fits-all solution to minimize sounds that scare dogs has or even make them disappear altogether, you do have plenty of tools at your disposal.

1. For starters, strive to be calm around your dog and avoid baby talk or panicky tones. Dogs are masters at reading our emotional states. And, consult a professional dog behaviorist or dog trainer to help modify your dog’s behavior. Keep in mind that behavior modification techniques build on small but steady successes, and you need to be patient. Never yell at your dog for his fear-related destructive behavior, as your dog could start to associate the loud noises with a punishment, too.
2. As for products, work with your veterinarian to see if these may aid the reaction in your dog: Anti-anxiety vests, ThunderShirts, anti-static jackets or even towel wrapping your dog to help him feel less anxious or frightened. If your dog is afraid of storms, you can try rubbing his coat with antistatic laundry dryer sheets.
3. Pheromone sprays and diffusers. These commercial products emit dog-appeasing pheromones that help some dogs calm down in stressful or scary situations.
4. Soothing music or white noise to help block out the source of the fear-causing sound.
5. Soundproof a crate or safe room for your dog to go to before a storm strikes.
6. Some dogs require supplements or prescription medication to help them cope with noise phobias, especially to thunderstorms. The popular go-to medications prescribed by veterinarians include clonidine, clomipramine, fluoxetine, benzodiazepine and Prozac. Keep in mind that your veterinarian may recommend a combination of these drugs or may prescribe for use before a storm arrives to minimize your dog’s response. Go to a holistic veterinarian if you prefer more homeopathic solutions like herbs, essential oils, Bach flower remedies or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
7. Dr. Dodman shares one final key bit of advice: Don’t wait to get your pup or young dog treated for a noise phobia. “If your 10-month-old dog is starting to show signs of fear to a sound like thunder, don’t dismiss it and think you can just live with his pacing, because trust me, it will get worse if unchecked. I guarantee that. Get help sooner than later.”

---

When it comes to hearing, dog ears rule

Dogs have much better hearing than humans. Photography ©Azret Ayubov | Getty .

When it comes to a hearing contest, dogs have us beat, paws down. On average, there are about 12 muscles per canine ear that can be tilted, turned, raised and lowered to zero in on sounds at greater distances and wider frequencies than human ears.

Dogs can hear sounds within 67 to 45,000 hertz range as compared to people who can hear sounds within a range of 63 to 23,000. Hertz (Hz) is a measure of sound frequency or cycles per second.

That explains why your dog can be snoozing in an upstairs bedroom but hear you open a bag of potato chips in the kitchen and come bounding your way.

Thumbnail: © mattjeacock |Getty Images & © GlobalP | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more related articles on Dogster.com:

• All About Dog Genitalia and Dog Reproductive Systems
• 9 Things You Never Knew About Dogs in Heat
• Why Do Female Dogs Hump? Reasons for Female Dog Humping

The post Sounds That Scare Dogs — And What to Do About Them by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.