Acupuncture for Dogs: Is it Truly Beneficial?

Dogs have been our trusted friends for thousands of years, offering unwavering loyalty, unconditional love, and a special place in our hearts. Like us, our canine friends can experience health issues, and as responsible pet owners, we are always on the lookout for safe and effective ways to improve their well-being. Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been in practice for thousands of years and involves the insertion of needles into the skin along strategic points/areas of the body. Acupuncture is a holistic and increasingly popular approach that has shown promising results in addressing various health conditions and promoting overall health and wellness, as I can contest my own pug’s physical and mental health improvement with Acupuncture.

Being responsible pet owners, our first question would be, is Acupuncture safe for our beloved pets? Yes, if performed by a trained and certified veterinary acupuncturist. It can provide significant relief for dogs suffering from conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Skin allergies, Hip or elbow dysplasia, Spinal cord issues, Anxiety or other behavioral challenges, side effects from chemotherapy, etc. This is just a small list of conditions that may benefit from the introduction of acupuncture. If you believe your dog has a condition that could be helped with acupuncture, inquire with their veterinarian. Other potential benefits included but were not limited to an acupuncture session, decrease healing time, decreased inflammation, increased pain control, and increased mobility.

An acupuncture procedure is minimally invasive, and the needles used are extremely thin, causing minimal discomfort. During an Acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will conduct a thorough assessment of your pet's health and medical history. (“Benefits of Acupuncture for Anxiety and Depression”) They will identify the specific areas where the needles should be inserted, based on the dog's condition and TCM principles. The process is typically well-tolerated by dogs, with finding it relaxing and may even take a nap. My pug had five sessions until she was finally relaxed during the sessions and she would be very relaxed and take a nap. If you are curious about how many sessions are required for your pet, it would depend on a range of factors, including the nature of the condition your pet is being treated for and your pet's response to the treatment. While some dogs may experience immediate relief, others may require multiple sessions over weeks to achieve the desired results. An acupuncturist will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan for your furry friend. A session can be done in a clinic or in the comfort of your home.

To start your pet in Acupuncture, one must seek and choose an Acupuncturist, who has completed additional certification and training in acupuncture, certifications, and accreditations, as well as positive reviews from other pet owners. A skilled professional will ensure that the treatment is administered safely and effectively. Afterall, the acupuncturist will be inserting needles into points along the body’s meridians. Meridians are pathways in which life energy, also known as chi, flows for balance of this energy. From a Western perspective, acupuncture needles are inserted into acupuncture points to stimulate nerves, connective tissue, and muscles. While there are varying approaches to acupuncture depending on the practitioner’s personal approach, the objectives remain the same, which is to stimulate the body’s natural healing ability, therefore promoting an increase in physical and mental well-being.

 

Curious to know if acupuncture is helping your beloved pet? After an acupuncture session, watch for changes in your dog’s daily routine: appetite (increasing and decreasing) many pets drink more water directly after a session, is your dog more mobile than before the session, the pet’s activity levels will increase as they feel better, and positive behavioral changes with increase comfortableness and decreased stress and pain, immune system boost making your pet less prone to illness/sickness, and digestive health with regulating the gastrointestinal system and restoring proper functions.

Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular as a stand-alone modality or used in conjunction with more traditional treatments for a variety of ailments. Unfortunately, the cost may prohibit some pet parents from exploring this therapy for their pet, but thankfully more pet insurance companies are now covering this treatment. With fewer negative side effects, acupuncture should absolutely be explored for your pets, especially since acupuncture is a natural and complementary approach to conventional veterinarian care. The benefits of acupuncture from pain management to stress reduction, to improved mobility and enhanced overall pet health is unmeasurable.

Pets have a way of touching our lives in a way that we cannot even imagine or put into words to let us give them the love and care they truly deserve by adding this ancient practice of acupuncture to their well-being regimen.

Dogs Riding in Cars and the Hidden Dangers of Having Their Heads Out the Window

When it comes to dogs and cars, it's hard to resist the adorable sight of a canine companion with their head out the window, ears flapping in the wind. It's an image that often conjures up feelings of joy and freedom, but did you know that allowing your dog to ride with their head out the window can actually pose hidden dangers? In this article, we will delve into the potential risks associated with dogs having their heads out the car window, highlighting the importance of prioritizing their safety during car journeys.

1. Flying Debris and Injuries

One of the primary concerns with dogs having their heads out the car window is the risk of flying debris and injuries. Even at moderate speeds, the wind can carry various objects, such as dust, dirt, insects, or small stones, which can hit your dog's face, eyes, or ears. These objects may cause irritation, scratches, or more severe injuries that require immediate veterinary attention. It's crucial to remember that your dog's eyes and ears are delicate and vulnerable, and exposing them to such potential hazards can have lasting consequences.

2. Respiratory Issues

Another hidden danger associated with dogs having their heads out the car window is the increased risk of respiratory issues. When dogs stick their heads out, they are exposed to a rush of air, which can lead to breathing difficulties, especially for brachycephalic breeds with shorter snouts. The forceful wind can irritate their airways, causing coughing, choking, or even inflammation. In extreme cases, this may lead to more severe respiratory distress, potentially compromising their well-being. Protecting their respiratory health should always be a priority.

3. Ejection and Accidents

Allowing your dog to have their head out the window also puts them at a higher risk of ejection and accidents. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and the sights, sounds, and scents they encounter during a car ride can be incredibly enticing. This can lead to distractions that may divert their attention from the road, putting both them and you in danger. Additionally, sudden movements or stops can result in ejection from the window, potentially causing severe injuries or even fatalities. Keeping your furry friend securely inside the vehicle greatly reduces these risks.

4. Temperature Extremes

Temperature extremes are yet another factor to consider when it comes to your dog's safety during car rides. While sticking their heads out the window might seem like a way for them to cool down on a hot day, it can actually lead to overheating or exposure to frigid temperatures. When the car is in motion, the wind can create a false sense of temperature comfort, masking the actual weather conditions. This can result in heat exhaustion or, conversely, hypothermia, depending on the climate. Always ensure a comfortable and controlled environment for your dog inside the vehicle.

5. Distraction for Other Drivers

Lastly, dogs with their heads out the window can be a significant distraction for other drivers on the road. Their presence can capture attention, causing neighboring drivers to lose focus on the task at hand—operating their vehicles safely. It's crucial to prioritize not only your dog's safety but also the safety of those around you. Minimizing distractions in the car helps create a more secure driving environment for everyone involved.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to let your dog enjoy the wind in their fur during car rides, it's important to be aware of the hidden dangers associated with this practice. Flying debris, potential injuries, respiratory issues, ejection risks, temperature extremes, and distractions for other drivers are all factors to consider. Ensuring the safety of your beloved furry friend should always be the top priority. Consider alternative ways to provide your dog with a comfortable and secure car journey, such as using appropriate restraints or carriers designed specifically for their needs.

Remember, being a responsible dog owner means safeguarding their well-being at all times, even during seemingly harmless activities like riding in cars. By prioritizing their safety, you can create a positive and secure travel experience for both you and your canine companion.

#dogsridingincars #distraction #otherdrivers #stones #bugs #accidents #extremetemperatures #ejections #dogsoutthewindow #respiratoryissues #breathing #hiddendangers #headsoutwindows #debris #eyes #ears #mouth #pugwithpurpose #piapiapug #inside #safety #carsafety #dogsafety

CBD for Pets...

For the past few years, many of us have heard of, researched, discussed, and are curious about CBD for our pets. Is it good for them? What is CBD? What are the benefits of CBD for our pets? Should I use CBD for my pet? Which CBD product will be best for my pet? 

 While there are several different CBD products on the market, it is up to you - the pet owner - to do your due diligence to view, research, and discuss which of these products will be best for your pet.  As it is good to have a variety of products as no pet is like the next pet, their ailments are different from one pet to the next, even in the same household.  

I, like many of you, was curious, concerned, and confused but while at the Global Pet Expo, I was able to speak to the many different CBD companies from oils, treats, sprays, etc.  I was able to speak to Julianna Carella, Creator, Founder, and CEO of Treatibles, as I explained that my pug has Lymphangiectasia, IVDD, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and is losing her eyesight which now causes her to have some anxieties especially when I leave her whether it is with my husband, a disabled veteran with his own health and anxiety issues. She spent quite a bit of time explaining how Treatibles was created, and the positives of using just a small amount to help my pug with pain and anxiety relief.  She proceeded to give me a few samples and instructions to try while in Orlando and to let her know before the show ended.  Of course, I started my pug that night (split one of the 7 mg. soft chews in half) and my pug was a bit more relaxed but still fidgety.  The next morning, I gave her the second half as I left for another fulfilling fun day of meetings, greetings, and getting information. When I returned to the hotel my husband informed me that my pug was relaxed and did not pace (well only when she had to potty).  That night I gave her another half of a soft chew, and she slept soundly and had no fidgeting.  That made me more relaxed and calmer.  I returned to the Treatibles booth on the last day of the expo, was still concerned, and had additional questions, again Julianna Carella took time to answer all my concerns and questions.  

Now, we have a monthly Treatibles delivery.  My pug is still taking only 3.5 mg a night.  She sleeps soundly, and she is more active than she has been before Treatibles.  If she has any signs of pain or discomfort, I will give her an additional 3.5 mg but I have never had to go over 7 mg (one soft dog chew).  

Also, Treatibles has CBD products for humans and that has helped my husband with his PTSD, calming him.  It has helped me with even my back and wrist pain that I received during a violent car accident.  

Treatibles have been very good for all of us.  I can’t wait to see them in 2023 to update them!

NOTE: This is only one CBD Company that I found that works for us. Please, do your diligence and research on this and other CBD Companies to find what works best for your pet's needs and even yours. 

Total Paw-tection for your pets...

As this year is beginning, it’s time to reflect on last year’s Global Pet Expo, especially since March will soon be here and another awesome Global Pet Expo will be upon us! I am excited to be attending Global Pet Expo 2023. 

Pawz for total paw-tection!  Now that a significant amount of time has passed since the Global Pet Expo, I have got to tell you I love the Pawz Paw Sanitizer.  I have been using the Pawz paw protection boots for a while. Living in Florida between the rain and the hot pavement, my dog’s paws need protection. It is the one boot that I found stayed and fitted my dog's paws perfectly.  For those who live in the north, you should view Pawz rubber boots to eliminate your dog’s paws from the frost, ice, and salt that is laid down.  

While attending the expo I was introduced to their paw sanitizer, which can be used for more than just paws, it is pet friendly and environmentally friendly.  I have been able to use this sanitizer to clean my dog’s paws, eliminating the cytopoint injection she needed because of the allergens, fungus, mold, etc. that grow in the grass with all the heat, rain, and humidity.  This helped to save my dog from being subjected to sick dogs at the vet, her constant chewing on her paws, and a monthly injection with the additional cost. Taking a few moments to spray the sanitizer on a cloth and clean her paws is so worth it, plus I am able to use it, similar to hand sanitizer.  Plus, it cleans off surfaces and has NO offensive smell.  

Also, did you know that Pawz also has a paw protex max wax to keep your dog’s paws from getting dried and cracked?  Not sure about you but I like to use as many products from one company as possible, as then I know they complement each other which eliminates any counteraction such as a rash or worse.  The Pawz protex max wax has made my dog’s paws so soft. Even her Groomer, my family, and friends love to touch and feel her soft paws. As I am applying the protection on her paws my hands are also getting soft.  A win-win!  

Overall, Pawz products are pet-friendly, environmentally friendly, reasonably-priced, with no heavy odors, and available at most local stores and of course, online.  Thank you, Pawz for caring for our pets! 

@Pawz #paws #pawprotections #protectpaws #salt #humid #rain #heat #rough #crack #soft #rubberboots #happy #allergens #clean #fungus #eliminatecytopoint  #pug #dogs #furryfamilymembers #petsarefamily #paws #soft #GlobalPetExpo #pawtection #sanitizer #costsavings #protexmaxwax

The Time to Travel is coming...

 

Whether you are traveling for spring break, summer vacation, or during a holiday you want to make sure your dog is prepared for the trip. If your dog is not used to riding in the car, you want them to get familiar with riding in the car, so start taking them on small car trips around town, continue making the trips longer and longer until you feel your dog is ready for the long car ride.  If you are flying and they are not used to being in a carrier, begin putting them in a carrier for a few minutes a day until they are comfortable and know the carrier is not a punishment. You want a carrier that will meet the requirements of the airline, as well as enough room for your dog. Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around.  You do not want the carrier to be restrictive because then your dog will despise being in it.  Make sure your destination is pet-friendly, whether you are visiting family, friends, or a specific area. The worse you want to do is go to find your furry friend is not allowed or invited.

When packing for your dog make sure to keep them on their regular diet, pack a toy or two of their own, a blanket or towel, food/water bowls, dog treats, and maybe a bed (pending the space you have) so they have a piece of home.  If you are driving, make sure to pack water so when you stop you can give your dog some water.  If it is a long drive, make sure you have their food accessible to feed them. When driving makes sure to walk them so they can relieve themselves.  Make sure your dog is secure in your car by a seatbelt or carrier, in the event of a car accident the carrier, pet car seat, or seatbelt will help keep your Dog safe. 

If you are flying, it’s best not to feed or give them water two hours prior to them flying.  Make sure to let them go to the bathroom before you enter the airport or security area.  There are some airports that have pet relief areas, but they may be outside the security areas, research the airports before going to know if your airport has a pet relief area or not. Leave enough time to allow your pet to relieve themselves before the flight. 

If your dog is on a special diet, research your destination to make sure you can get their food. You do not want to change their diet and risk any issues while on vacation or visiting. Pack all your dog’s medications, heartworm prevention (pending the time of the month you give your dog their heartworm prevention), a recent photo, and a current vaccination record for your Dog. Do not forget when packing to pack an emergency kit for your dog such things as gauze bandage, eyewash, tweezers, bandages, muzzle, extra leash/harness, and gloves.      

Take your dog to their veterinarian for a full physical. You want to verify that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations especially if they are going to a different region, they are healthy to make the car ride, and/or if you are flying your dog will need a flight certification.  Once you get a clean bill of health from their veterinarian request a copy of the vaccination record to have on hand while you travel, in case of emergency.  Reminder, if you are flying call ahead to the airline to let them know you are traveling with your dog (brachycephalic breeds are not to fly in cargo due to their breathing issues) and most airlines have restrictions on the number of dogs allowed on a flight. 

If have not done so it is best to get your dog microchipped.  Many rescues, animal clinics, veterinarians, dog catchers, etc. utilize this method to help get a beloved dog back to their owners.  Make sure to use a secure harness/collar, leash, and your dog is wearing their dog tags while you are traveling and while you are at your destination. You may know the area you are going to but to your dog, you are going to a strange place with new smells, so be patient while they acclimate to their temporary surroundings.  If the cost of the microchip is a problem watch in your area, some Humane Societies, veterinarian clinics, or rescues will offer a microchip at a reduced cost to you. 

Be mindful of your dog during your travels and destination. Be mindful of what your dog gets into such as the different plants, potential toxins, pets around the area, bodies of water such as pond, lake or pool, children and etcetera. Make sure you are aware of local emergency veterinarian clinics around the area, hopefully, you won’t need it, but it is best to know where one is before you need one.   

Traveling is stressful for you and your dog so consider all options and choose the right options for you and your beloved dog. 

Have a happy and safe journey. 

With all the Rain, watch out for Standing Water Hazards

 

Water is about 71% of the Earth’s surface between the lakes, oceans, streams and the ponds.  Then there are additional water hazards such as the puddles and standing water within the flower pots and other items which can collect water.  Did you know that if your dog drinks water from puddles, lakes and even the oceans it could make your dog ill?  Yes, even though water is imperative especially in the hot weather; water can be dangerous and even deadly.  For instance, the oceans are the biggest body of water and dogs love to romp in the waves.  However, too much salt water whether by a retrieving a toy, drinking it, or accidently swallowing salt water could cause “beach diarrhea.”  Salt water, of course, has salt in it.  Salt pulls water from the blood and into the dog’s small and large intestines which can lead to diarrhea with blood.  Extreme amounts of salt water could cause vomiting, dehydration, seizures or worse.  In these cases it is best to seek veterinarian care immediately.  The ocean is not going anywhere so make sure your dog takes a break, rests, gets plenty of fresh water, cools down, and remains out of the sun. 

While at the beach also make sure to lookout for jellyfish.  Jellyfish have nasty stings for humans and are dangerous to dogs.  Many jellyfish are located near the shores or on the beach where dogs can encounter them by sniffing them.  The jellyfish tentacles’ release toxins and can cause issues that vary depending on the jellyfish species. Also, if the jellyfish is dried up the tentacles still can release the toxin especially to a curious dog that sniffs or may even bite into one.  Some of the issues could be just an allergic reaction, anaphylactic shock, or death, so keep an eye on your dog and keep them away from jelly fish.  If your dog encounters one, seek veterinarian care immediately. 

 Another issue especially with the warm weather is blue/green algae, especially in areas like Florida.  This particular alga grows in areas such as lagoons and ponds.  The alga smells bad but some animals are attracted to the smell; therefore they will still drink from the lagoon or pond.  Also, if your dog decides to take a swim in the affected water it could cause some skin irritation or even possibly a rash.  If this occurs wash them thoroughly as soon as possible.  If your dog drinks from the affected water and develops diarrhea, walking impairments, or vomiting immediately take them to the veterinary.   

Other bacterium grows in standing water such as; puddles, ponds, and lakes is Giardia, Campylobacter, and Cryptosporidium are usually the most common ones and causes anything from gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting.  A majority of the time the bacterium can be treated with just antibiotics.  Most Dogs will recover with no problems but unfortunately there are some dogs that will have some lingering effects, those dogs are the young, older, or with compromising immunity issues.

Leptospirosis is also a bacterium found in standing water but is caused by the urination of small animals such as squirrels, mice, rats, and raccoons to name a few.  If your dog drinks from that contaminated water, it could lead to kidney or liver failure.  It will cause a dog to become lethargic or vomiting.  Early treatment is best to help combat this bacterium so seek veterinarian care immediately and discuss options to treat bacterium.  

One final thought is moderation – yes, moderation.  You want to make sure your dog drinks fresh clean water on a regular basis. There is a thing called too much water at once into a dog’s system which may cause a dilution of the natural balance of sodium which is critical for the water to flow through the dog’s body into the cells to include brain cells.  A lack of sodium in the blood cells could lead to swelling which could cause vomiting, nausea, bloating, lethargy, and lack of coordination just to name a few.  In extreme cases the onset of seizures, coma, or death.  The best prevention from overdrinking is to have your dog take drinking breaks and calm down.    

So, whether it is the jellyfish, seaweed, ocean water, puddles, and such; be careful and mindful of your dog when you are around any type of water.  Dogs can drink something that can make them ill, dogs can drown, and alligators/snakes linger around some bodies of water and other dangers.  Water is fun but water is also dangerous.  Be mindful and pay attention.   

 

#dog #pug #Dogs #puglife #pugnation #dangersofwater #waterdangers #water #dangers #summer #summertime #waterdog #dogsinwater #waterinflorida #florida #standingwater #Dogsandwater #puddles #oceans #lakes #ponds #watersafety #waterprecautions #algae

Are your prepared for this year’s Hurricane Season?

 

Another Hurricane Season is upon us… now is the time to prepare! First, remember if you have to evacuate, please take your pet with you. Do not leave your pets at home. If you are planning to board them, call the local boarding facility and confirm with them, they will have space for your pet.  If you are going to a shelter or hotel verify that they are pet friendly. If you will be going to a family or friend’s house again, please verify with them now it is alright to bring your pet with you.  Your pets are dependent on you for their safety and well-being, and they will be even more dependent during an emergency, so make sure they are including in all your emergency planning. 

Secondly, in case of evacuation and you must board your pets or take them to the shelter with you they must be current on their vaccinations. Get a copy of your pet’s vaccinations. Also, while at your veterinarian getting the vaccinations or vaccination records, please go ahead and get a copy of their medical records.  Plus have a current photograph of your pet just in case something happens, and you get separated.  If your pet is not microchipped it is strongly encouraged to get them microchipped as well as make sure they have a collar or harness on with their tags with their name, your name, contact information and any allergies. While you have the time, please list any medical conditions or behavior problems your pet may have.  Also, their veterinarian’s information, feeding schedule and medication schedule. Keep the vaccinations, medical records, veterinarian’s information, and current photograph in a waterproof container ready to take with you.  

Third, you need to create an emergency kit for your pet. Make sure they will have enough food and water for at least 14 days.  Make sure the food does not have to be refrigerated just in case you lose electricity; you do not want to feed your pet food that is bad.  Water is crucial to make sure your pet stays hydrated, especially if you are in warm climates. Make sure you have your pet’s medications with extra in case you are unable to get to a pharmacy.  Of course, a can opener to open the dog food with, dog bowl, and water bowl.

Fourth, the general stuff to have ready to go in case of emergency evacuation is to have a properly sized pet carrier for each pet (each pet carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in), a blanket or towel, pet bed, favorite pet toy, extra collar or harness and leashes.  Finally, a pet first aid kit (which you can make yourself or buy). 

Once you have all these items, it is best to place all the items into a sturdy waterproof container, label the container and leave it easily accessible throughout the season.  The last thing you want to do is racing or digging around to find it while you should be evacuating.  Which brings me to our final point; make sure your evacuation plans are made well in advance.  This is the time to prepare NOT when the evacuation or emergency is here.

#HurricaneSeason #2021HurricaneSeason #pets #petsarefamily #furryfamilymembers #preparenow #nowisthetimetoprepare #disasterplan #evacuationkit