Believe it or NOT…

We adopted Pia Pia when she was six months old from a no-kill shelter.  She was a cute, adorable little pug who always seems to have food on her face.  We had to wait two weeks to bring her home because she was just surrender to the shelter less than 24 hours prior and the shelter’s policy was to have their veterinarian check her out, to verify she had all her shots, was heart worm

negative, and of course to be spayed.   Each day for two weeks we would go to visit her for an hour, we were allowed to take her for a walk and spend time with her.  It killed us when we had to give her back just for them to put her in it that pen in a room full of other dogs waiting to be adopted.  Finally, she was spayed, had a clean bill of health and was able to come home.  We got her a bed, a pen, plenty of toys, food bowl, water bowl, blanket, and of course food.  When she came home she walk in the door and knew she was home however what many did not know is she jumped up on our new couch and peed.  Yes, not even five minutes of being in her new home and she peed on the couch.  Needless to say, I thought that it was the beginning and the end.  We knew there would be an adjustment however having her outside for a little bit before bringing in the house then bringing her in just to pee on the couch was not a good start.  It seemed like every twenty minutes we were taking her out to go to the bathroom.  Sometimes she went and sometimes she didn’t.  At the end of the week I was getting worried that she would have to go back to the shelter, of course diligence prevailed and finally she was trained to go to the door when she needed to go out and no more accidents in the house. 

Pia Pia is not the only dog who has issues like this; other dogs have behavioral issues and anxiety issues.  Some are not because of the dogs but because of the situations which led them to be dropped off at the shelters whether they were abandon, neglected, abused, unwanted, old, and etcetera.  It does not mean these dogs are not capable of being good loving family dogs it just takes time, patience, love and caring.  Good Sit is a program that not only is a benefit that teaches owners who have dogs positive dog training with just a few minutes a day but it also helps the Good Sit trainers to go to the shelters and train the dogs to make them more adoptable to families and individuals looking for a fur-ever family member.  Every dog deserves a chance to be loved and cared for.  Good Sit is wanting and is giving that dog a chance and that family a chance to find their furry family member. 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/goodsit/save-a-dogs-life-with-good-sit

Yulin is a good dog mom.  She is a warm-hearted, caring person who is dedicated to making a difference and saving as many shelter dogs as possible.  She is truly a wonderful person, I am honored to help her and support her in this endeavor.  I do not get any kickback or benefit other than knowing I am helping her to help her mission to help save shelter dogs finds a good home.   However, there are some of her tips I have taken because even though Pia Pia is a service dog, she is a service dog for my husband and she is still a female therefore there are sometimes Pia Pia has her moments.  Good Sit has really good positive tips even for those dogs already trained.   Please take a moment, review the video and make your determination.  We appreciate it.  Thank you. 

Home Remedies that can temporarily ease your Pug’s discomfort

Ever wonder if there is something you can do to ease your pug’s discomfort until the vet’s office opens?  Maybe a home remedy could help the simple issues such as ease hot spots or constipation?  Well, after some careful research and using some of the home remedies myself, I realize there are some that are safe enough to help your pug.  However, please understand that this is NOT to substitute the advice, guidance or to seek medical advice/care from your own veterinarian. 

-          - Artificial Tears will help to lubricant dry eyes; we know pugs have a tendency to have dry eyes.  However, make sure it is only dry eyes and not an infection or underlying issue, so please consult a veterinarian. 

-        -  Benadryl, the antihistamine will help when there is a bug/ant bite or some allergies.  Be aware that this will make your pug sleepy as well as depending on the size/weight of your pug would be how much to give your pug, so please consult a veterinarian. 

-          - Betadine which is an antiseptic, this is good to clean or soak wounds, cuts and injuries.  Betadine does cause discoloration to the skin, this is only temporary.

-         -  Epsom salts can be used to soak and soothe your pug’s sore paws.

-         -  Kaopectate can be given to your pug to help control diarrhea.  But please consult a veterinarian to know the dosage to give. 

-        -  Pedialyte can assist to rehydrate your pug when your pug is dehydrated during an illness or heat exhaustion.  It is best to mix with water.  

-         -  Pepcid AC can be given to a pug to help control stomach acid or upset stomachs.  Please consult a veterinarian to the exact dosage. 

-    -    Robitussin Pediatric Cough Syrup can be given to help eliminate or suppress a coughing pug.  Please consult a veterinarian that the cough is not something more serious.

Again, please consult a veterinarian to verify these home remedies would be acceptable for your pug, the correct dosages in the event you may need to utilize one of them, and so your veterinarian is aware in case of a further emergency. 

There are so many potential options on the internet from melatonin assisting to help pugs sleep and ginger helping to prevent car/motion sickness. Not to say these do not work or not acceptable but you want to make sure to use them within reason, under the supervision of a veterinarian in case of a reaction, and give the proper amount to your pug.  Too much of a good thing can be bad.  Too much ginger could cause diarrhea, heartburn and gas however it can help with arthritis.  So there is give and take in all home remedies so it is best to be careful, research thoroughly, ask questions, and make sure you document everything you give to your pug just in case of a reaction it can be traced. Include your veterinarian, this way you both will be in the know when it comes to the best care for your pug.   

Do you have any home remedies that you want to share? 

Does Second Hand Smoke Affect Our Pugs?

 I saw a commercial on how cigarette smoking can cause cancer in our pugs, so I was curious is this true?  Yes, second as well as third hand smoke does affect our pugs.  When our pugs are exposed to second and third hand smoke they are exposed to the same cancer causing chemicals as humans.   Pugs have a higher risk of lung cancer, respiratory disease, cardiovascular condition, eye problems, skin allergies and asthma whether it is from second or third hand smoke.  Second hand smoke is smoke that is breathed directly from the air around a smoker whereas third hand smoke is from the clothing, carpets, furniture and etcetera of a smoker.  For instance, when a pug lies on the lap of a smoker that smoke that is carried on their clothing is then transferred onto the pug as well as the pug is inhaling the smoke directly from the clothing. 

     According to Dr. Jan Bellows, DVM (veterinarian at All Pets Dental Clinic in Weston, FL), “Dogs and cat lungs are basically identical to human lungs.”  Showing that pugs’ lungs are susceptible to the thousands of chemicals and cancer causing agents such as carbon monoxide, vinyl chloride, arsenic, formaldehyde, just to name a few one inhales while smoking.   "Nicotine from secondhand smoke can have effects to the nervous systems of cats and pugs. Environmental tobacco smoke has been shown to contain numerous cancer-causing compounds, making it hazardous for animals as well as humans,” Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, medical director of the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. 

      Even the e-cigarettes are not better.  One of the listed ingredients used in the e-cigarettes is diethylene glycol, yes, the same ingredient found in antifreeze.  If a pug was to lick the fluid which causes the vapor from the e-cigarettes, it is basically slowly poisoning.  It will also cause neurological issues, lethargy, cancer, or worse. So whether you choose to smoke a cigarette, pipe, cigar or an e-cigarette you are doing harm to their pug.

     So if you have thought about quit smoking, if you won’t do it for yourself do it for your pug.  The one who gives you unconditional love no matter what, the one who will always be there for you, through thick and thin.   If one loves their pug and considers them family, this is the perfect time to decide to quit smoking for their pug and themselves.  

Only Natural Pet®: Has our pet’s health, vitality, and quality of life in mind.

With the assistance of the BlogPaws ™ Influencer Team, this is the first time I have heard about Only Natural Pet ®.  However it comes at a great time considering what we just went through with Pia Pia and her stomach issues. 

Only Natural Pet® the name of the company alone speaks volumes.  Their title alone lets their customers and future customers know that they are interested what is best for their pets.  However, what one considers ‘natural’ may not be what another considers ‘natural’.  Continuing our research for what Only Natural Pet® would consider ‘natural’ open the doors to a dedicated company who have our pet’s well-being in mind.  Their mission statement “Our mission is to make healthy choices easy for you and your pet.” 

Only Natural Pet’s assurance to their customers is finding the best effective and ecological natural pet products with working together with their vendors who offer natural, organic, and eco-friendly pet supplies.  The company considers the environment in all aspects of their practices to ensure they are protecting the planet for humans and pets. 

In addition, Only Natural Pet has created their own brand of food, flea prevention, treatment, and vitamins with the assistance and guidance of a dedicated board of Veterinarians to research, review and test each product.  Their products are available through their online store and local retailers.

Speaking about their online store, consumers are able to find numerous health articles from weight concerns, joint issues, gastrointestinal support and etcetera.  Now, these articles are not to substitute taking your pet to their veterinarian but it helps consumers to pinpoint some minor issues or support what your veterinarian is stating.   Considering the most recent issues we have had with Pia Pia and her stomach, I found the gastrointestinal support, bowel support, diarrhea, and immune articles quite interesting and supporting. 

Only Natural Pet® has been very kind and sent a large box containing many varieties of their products.  Which is extremely generous because I am able to read the ingredients and Pia Pia is able to test them, have you tried or do you purchase Only Natural Pet®?  If so we would love to hear from you and which does your pet prefer?  

• ·         Jerky Strips - Made from either Grass Fed Bison or Free Range Venison.  Made in the USA – Venison Pia Pia enjoys the most. 
• ·         Yak's Milk Dog Chew - Made from a mixture of yak's milk, cow's milk, lime juice and salt, this is a hard cheese that is a long lasting chew for dogs without added color additives or chemicals – Pia Pia loves to lick but hard for her to chew. 
• ·         Mega Cow Tails - Made from grass fed, free range cattle in the USA – Pia Pia enjoys chewing. 
• ·         Pastured Raised Beef & Tripe – Fresh vegetables and fruit.  A good way to incorporate raw feeding.  Could be utilized for treats.  – Pia Pia loves this as a treat. 
• ·         Turkey and Sweet Potato Raw, Dehydrated Food - Another possible way to try raw food.  There are other varieties, all which include human quality ingredients. – Haven’t tried this one yet. 
• ·         Ultimate Daily Vitamins – This are soft chewable vitamins which any dog at any age would be able to benefit from.  – I have put this is Pia Pia’s food and she has eaten it every time. 
• ·         Krill & Cod Oil – This helps to promote cardiovascular health and brain development in pets.  – This I haven’t used yet. 

•          Stain & Odor Remover - Rarely do you find an all-natural cleaning product that actually works.  – Currently at this time I have not utilize this product however I can tell you it smells really good.

We all have our preferences as well as our pets have their preferences, but Only Natural Pet® has surely gone the extra mile to ensure our pets are given the best, natural, and sustainable pet products on the market. 

**This post is sponsored by BlogPaws ™ Pet Influencer and Only Natural Pet®.  This post is to help introduce and spread the word about Only Natural Pet®.  With careful research and consideration, Pia Pia and I feel confident that a majority of our readers will be appreciative. **   

<p>This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Only Natural Pet and the BlogPaws® Pet Influencer NetworkTM.  The opinions and text are all mine.</p><!-- TapInfluence Comment Widget - Do Not Edit or Remove --><div id="ti-pixel-tracker"></div><script type="text/javascript" src="https://influencers.tapinfluence.com/assets/cogs/core-v4.js"></script> <script>var ts=document.getElementById('ti-pixel-tracker'); var axel = Math.random() + ""; var num = axel * 1000000000000000000; var ti=document.createElement("img"); ti.style.display="none"; ti.src="https://tracking.tapinfluence.com/trk/bpAwt/AeAQy/p.png?p=I1OtX" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "i=fdrrO" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "ord="+ num + String.fromCharCode(38) + "s=" + encodeURIComponent(document.referrer); ts.parentNode.replaceChild(ti,ts); JSON.stringify({"program_id":"2545a608-145e-11e6-949a-22000a66c666","post_id":"d060b7dc-15e2-11e6-8f9f-22000a7d00a4"});</script><!-- End Widget -->

Quick Fun Facts about Pugs

Pugs are ideal companions for almost all humans, however because they are a brachycephalic breed they are not a breed to sustain long periods of physical activity.  A normal weight for a healthy pug is 14 – 20 lbs.   Height for a pug is 12 – 14 inches.  Pugs are short in stature, tend to be sort of stocky, have a curly tail, black muzzle, snore and snort, are curious, fun, great to be around and love to make their owners happy.

Pugs are one time were praised and sat on the throne of Chinese Emperors.  In fact, today many pugs still love to sit and relax on the couch while be waiting on by their humans.  Pugs may look to be a lazy breed, however they are attentive, alert and ready to follow and play with their humans are any given time.  For the most part, pugs get along with mostly everyone especially those who give them a lot of attention back.  They are cuddlers and snugglers.  Pugs are not a breed who likes to be left alone.  When pugs are left alone for a long period of time, they may get themselves into trouble.  Remember pugs are mischievous, intelligent and curious.  Pugs are not necessarily barkers but they are yappers.  They may not be the perfect guard dog but the will be a good host/hostess. 

Because pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a flat muzzle the do snore, snort and wheeze.  These sounds are usual for this breed however be cautious because there are times they could be harmful so be mindful of your pug’s snort and wheeze.  Their wrinkles will need to clean on a regular basis because of dirt, food, and sweat they can gather within those wrinkles.  Without proper cleaning it could cause yeast infections, pimples, and other issues in those wrinkles.  Pugs are not a breed for extreme heat or extreme cold weather; they are an ambient temperature breed.  They like to run and play but do not need a lot of room so a great for apartments, condos as well as single family dwellings.  However, be careful of the amount of food you feed them and what you feed them because pugs love food and love to eat.  This also causes them to become obese which is unhealthy for them.  So ration their food, provide plenty of water, and plenty of exercise. 

Pugs tend to be stubborn but once they understand you are in charge are easy to train.  Do not yell or upset them because you do not want to hurt their feelings, pugs are a dignified breed and expect to be treated in such a manner.  As in our family, we say this is her house we just pay the bills, take care of the home and take care of her. 

What about your pug or dog, anything fun, special or quirky?  Please feel free to share.  

What to do when your Pug is overheating.

Warmer weather is here!!   With that, it is imperative for one to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a heat stroke and heat stress as well as how to treat them in the event your pug experiences one.  Understanding and knowing what to when your pug is overheated and needs immediate care can save their life.

Heat strokes usually occur when the pug is unable to regulate their own body temperature.  Unlike humans, pugs do not sweat they regulate their body temperatures but by respiration such as panting. If a pug is unable or their respiratory tract fails to clear heat quickly enough then a heatstroke may happen. 

The following guidelines will help should your pug become overheated:

Overheating is life-threatening.  Knowledge of the signs and immediate treatment of heat exhaustion will help to reduce the chances of the pug having a heatstroke and even worse, death.

1. Watch your pug for signs of overheating.  Pugs have the most difficult time in the hot temperatures to they will need to be monitored more closely and have the least time out in the hot weather.  If you notice your pug with any of the following signs: excessive panting, dry gums, gums that are pale, increased drool, rapid pulse, confusion, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, hyperventilation, and maybe rectal bleeding, get the pug into a cooler area immediately, something with air conditioning or a fan. 

2. Use a rectal thermometer.  Attempt to take the pug’s temperature, pending on the pug.  Using your judgement if the pug is too hot or having a heat stroke it is best to get them immediately to emergency care.  If you are able to get the pug’s temperature, a pug’s normal body temperature is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If the pug is under moderate heating, the temperature may rise to around 103 to 106 degrees; however severe heating will usually occur beyond 106 degrees. If this occurs contact your vet or the nearest emergency center and then report your pug’s temperature along with the symptoms he is exhibiting.

3. Reduce the pug’s temperature immediately.  To reduce the pug’s temperature, bring the pug into a cooler environment, then cool the pug by placing wet towels over his neck, under his armpits, and between his hind legs. Additional wetting on their ear flaps and on the pads of their paws will help to cool them pug down also.  If you are unable to bring the pug inside or are in an outdoor environment, utilize a stream or pond to help cool the pug down.

4. Give the pug fresh cool drinking water.  Let the pug drink the water, do not try to force water into their mouth.  Forcing the water down the pug may cause the pug to choke.   If the pug is refusing to drink, try placing some drops of water on their tongue.  Remember make sure the water is cool, NOT cold.  Cold water such as ice while a pug is experiencing a heat stroke may cause their body temperature to change too quickly, causing the pug to go into shock. 

5. Transport the pug to the vet. Call ahead so the veterinarian can be prepared of the situation and they will be able to treat the pug accordingly.  If your veterinarian is unavailable, transport the pug to the local emergency veterinarian.  The pug may need additional fluids, oxygen and other treatment.  If it was a severe overheating additional harm may have been cause as well as possible cardiac arrest.  The pug will need to be check out and taken care of. 

Prevention is the best medicine.  With the summer months coming, it is best to make sure your pug has plenty fresh water, shade to rest and is not left or expose to heat, especially during the hottest part of the day.  If you walk your pug, please walk them during the coolest time of the day such as early morning or after sunset. 

 

Be Aware of the Toxics around your Pugs

Every pug loves to get table scraps and it is hard to say ‘No’ to that little pug face staring at you while you are trying to eat.  However, did you know there are many human foods that are toxic to pugs are could cause internal damage or death. 

Here are some of the human foods that are toxic:

Grapes and Raisins – they are poisonous and can be toxic within a few hours.  Your pug will have diarrhea, vomit, could be wobbly, not able to urinate as normal.  Could cause severe damage to kidneys or even lead to death.

Avocados – there is nothing noted specifically on what happens but could lead to loss of breath, fluid accumulation in chest, vomit, diarrhea, and heart problems.  The lack of oxygen could lead to death.

Onions – they destroys red blood cells.  Onions causes your pug to have a rapid heart rate, be lethargic, weak, vomit, diarrhea, and blood in their urine.  Could cause damage to kidneys and could lead to death.

Tomatoes – are poisonous and are dangerous over a long period of time of being eaten by your pug.  They could cause your pug to have tremors, seizures, heart arrhythmias, dilated pupils, colic, diarrhea, vomit, and coma to possible death.

Mushrooms – be careful of the wild mushrooms also.  It is mainly the cap of the mushrooms but in general mushrooms are very poisonous and considering the mushroom is pending the symptoms which could happen.  White mushrooms are not as dangerous.  Some symptoms are nervousness, bloody diarrhea, anxiety, restlessness, wheezing, slow heart beat and death.

Fruit pits – such as peaches and nectarines, they have cyanide and can cause obstruction in your pug’s intestines which lead to death within days. 

Various nuts from walnuts, pecans, Macadamia, pistachios, and Brazil – all have low levels of poison which pending how much your pug eats is pending how sick your pug will get.  Symptoms could be vomit, bloody or blackened stools, lethargy, liver failure and death.

The list above is just a few of the many toxic foods there are many more such as chocolate, garlic, chives, seeds, and etcetera, so it is best to not feed your pug human food unless instructed by a veterinarian, pet nutritionists or you have done extensive research for the right foods, the right amount, and how it should be served (cooked, raw, dehydrated).  Any type of food change with your pug it is best to check with your veterinarian. 

PLEASE, any intake of any toxic foods or plants you should take your pug immediately to the nearest veterinarian for emergency care. 

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