Grooming
Brushing your pet can have many therapeutic which
include improved circulation, removal of uncomfortable tangles,
and enhancing the bond between you and your pet.
Health Tip- Start brushing and bathing your
pet regularly when they are young so they can adapt to this
routine. This will make grooming easier and more enjoyable.
Fleas & Ticks
Fleas and Ticks are not only a nuisance but can
cause allergies, anemia, and blood borne diseases such as
“tick fever”.
Health Tip- Vacuuming is a great defense
against fleas and ticks. If eggs/larvae cannot develop, the
population of fleas and ticks is minimized. Use caution with
chemical flea/tick products as they can be toxic if
overused.
Itching
Chronic itching can be a sign of many things such
as fleas/ticks, allergies, sunburn, reaction to grooming
products, even dry skin due to thyroid or lack of Omega 3
essential fatty acids.
Health Tip- Keep your home and pet’s bedding
clean. If your pet is free of fleas/ticks and continues to
itch or chew or his/her feet and tail, consider allergies as
the culprit. Food or environmental allergies can be
controlled. Keep a journal of when your pet itches. If it’s
seasonal, consider an allergy supplement made specifically
for seasonal allergies. If it’s constant consider your pet’s
diet. Read more about “Diet & Food Basics” click here.
[links to Category: “Diet” Topic: “Food Basics”]
Oily Skin
Oily skin is most common among Schnauzers and
other small breeds. However chronic oily skin can indicate
overactive sebaceous [oil] glands. Stress, disease and
allergies have been known to enhance oil production.
Health Tip- Make sure your pet gets a
complete and balanced diet. Essential fatty acids from cold
processed sources such as salmon can be useful.
Shedding
With the exception of poodles and Terrier breeds,
most dogs shed all year long. Shedding is a natural cycle
but too much shedding can indicate a problem.
Health Tip- A balanced diet of minimally
processed food is best. Essential Fatty Acid Supplements can
be given to help reduce stress related shedding.
Skin Care
Dogs need skin care too. Sensitive noses, ears,
even bellies can get sunburned or frostbitten.
Health Tip- Protect your pet’s exposed skin
in the summer with sun block. In the winter, protect your
pet’s sensitive paws with boots. All over skin protection is
often accomplished with the use of Omega 3 fatty acid
supplements from flax or fish oils.
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