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Fighting Dog Halitosis

2010-05-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies
by D. Braun

Just about every dog I have come across has had bad breath. Sometimes it is mildly offensive while other times I want to run away screaming! It is no wonder that dogs have this problem since they cannot brush their teeth on a daily basis like we do. You might notice that your dog has bad breath only in certain circumstances like after they eat or right after they have woken up. Or, your dog might have bad breath all the time.

There are many things that can cause dogs to have bad breath. If they have tooth decay or disease in their gums then no doubt their breath will be terrible and this should be addressed right away. Many medications can lead to the mouth drying out and this is a big welcome committee for halitosis (bad breath). Bacteria growth in both the digestive system and mouth is probably the biggest cause for bad breath. Other causes include: viruses, too much protein in the diet, tonsillitis, liver problems, constipation, diabetes, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory disease, digestion problems and viral infections.

You might brush your dog’s teeth on a daily or weekly basis and notice that it is still not helping like you would want it to. This is not only tiring and time consuming but with our busy schedules is something that would be nice to avoid altogether. You might have also tried some of the prescription medications that are geared toward knocking out bad breath. These tend to work well but have quite a few unwanted side effects.

There are some herbs available that are good at knocking out bad breath at the source. Cleavers, Apium graveolens and Foeniculum officinale can be used to detoxify and clean your dog’s body and improve their breath a great deal.

There are other things you can do to help keep bad breath at bay. Make sure your pet drinks plenty of clean water every day. Be sure that their diet is good and does not contain too much protein. There are commercial pet foods available that are balanced to help fight gum disease. Do not give your dog any sugar because this is terrible for their teeth and overall health. Add some rice to their food because it will help them digest their food better. Make sure that there is a chew toy available to them at all times since they are great at keeping their teeth clean.

If you decide to brush their teeth, make sure that you begin when they are still a puppy. Cover your finger with a piece gauze and pull the lip back. Brush in little circles while going back and forth along the gumline. Make sure that you use a natural toothpaste that is especially formulated for pets.

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

OralHealth Mouth Spray - Promote oral health and address dog & cat breath

Do herbal and homeopathic remedies work on pets?

2010-05-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies

"In the wild, animals instinctively seek out healing herbs to help them when they are ill or undernourished. In fact, Asclepius, the ancient Greek god of medicine, respected dogs very highly for their ability to seek out and eat medicinal herbs in the wild. This ability is shared by other animals, including cats. We are coming to realize that nature often has the answers - but animals have always known this! Natural medicine can help your pet just as it can help you. While there is always a place for conventional veterinary medicine, natural medicine can compliment conventional veterinary care and in many cases do just as well. I have applied the same care and research that have gone into our Native Remedies range for adults and children to the development of pet-friendly, safe and effective natural remedies for animals. As always, all remedies are formulated to the highest therapeutic standards and manufactured under strict pharmaceutical conditions for your peace of mind and the well being of your pets. " Michele Carelse, Clinical Psychologist.

"When a veterinary surgeon practices the use of homeopathic medicine and is asked why he does so, he may give one of several answers. The simple answer would be that the results are good, an emphatic answer would be that homeopathic treatment has no unpleasant or dangerous side effects, while still achieving successful results.

The PetAlive Homeopathic range has been formulated with this knowledge and is specifically designed to treat your pet in a holistic and natural manner."

Dr. Glenn Ferguson
M-Tech Homeopathy
Doctor of Chinese Medicine

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

5 Steps to Take When Your Dog is Urinating Frequently

2010-05-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. Once I had to rush my dog to the pet hospital and he practically died. He had a urinary tract infection and I didn’t notice the symptoms until the last minute. Thankfully, my veterinarian was able to save him but it was definitely a wake-up call. Now I focus on preventive treatment and am aware of the signs of infection so it doesn’t spiral out of control again. Here are 5 steps you should take when you notice your dog urinating frequently.

1. First, have a look at all of the symptoms. Is your dog straining to urinate? Is your dog urinating excessively or are there only drops coming out at a time? A urinary blockage could cause your dog to stop urinating completely so it’s important get him treated if that’s the case because it could mean life or death. If the only symptom you notice is frequent urination, treatment at home with plenty of fresh, filtered water, unprocessed food, and homeopathy will probably be enough to fight off the infection.

2. If you notice your dog urinating frequently, take him to the vet. Your vet will do tests and examinations to figure out the underlying cause of the problem. In severe cases, medication or a surgical procedure may be necessary to correct the problem.

3. If you see your dog urinating excessively, a urinary tract infection is most likely the cause. Most mainstream veterinarians prescribe antibiotics in this situation. However, antibiotics are known to actually aggravate the symptoms of dog UTI and cause other harmful side effects. In many cases, dietary control and homeopathic treatment are enough to get rid of a UTI.

4. Take aggressive action when you notice your dog urinating frequently. Give your dog plenty of filtered water to drink. Bathe him frequently so bacteria don’t have a chance to flourish in his genital area. Give him only raw, unprocessed, or homemade food. Commercial foods are laden with artificial ingredients like preservatives and colorings and they can alter the pH of your dog’s urine so they should be avoided.

5. Administering a homeopathic remedy is hands down the biggest step you can take to help your dog achieve permanent recovery when you notice your dog urinating excessively. Homeopathic remedies restore balance at a cellular level and help maintain a healthy bladder, a healthy flow of urine, and a strong immune system that is capable of fighting off infections. Homeopathic treatments are better than any medication because they are completely free of side effects, they are affordable, and they can both treat and prevent UTI.

So there you have it. The next time you see your dog urinating frequently, follow these 5 simple steps. By doing so you can help your dog achieve a fast recovery and avoid complications. Remember that natural, preventive treatment is the most effective but you have to use it on a regular basis. Rather than just treating the problem when symptoms arise, prevent it from becoming an issue altogether with homeopathic treatment and lifestyle change.

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Dogs Get Arthritis Too

2010-05-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies
by D. Braun

Arthritis is a disease that continues to get worse as your pet ages and the affected joints become inflamed. The cartilage in the joint is slowly destroyed by everyday wear and tear and once it gets to a certain point, the body begins to help further the destruction.

Many times you cannot even tell if your pet has arthritis. Other times you will be able to hear creaking in their joints or see the inflammation.

There are many things that can cause arthritis in cats or dogs including injury, infections and certain diseases. Some breeds such as bulldogs and dachshunds are more prone to arthritis due to their body and bone structure.

When you take your dog or cat to the vet they will need to know about any history they have had with injuries. They will ask questions about how mobile your pet is and if you have noticed any creaking or cracking sounds when they stand up. They will probably take X-rays and maybe even blood tests to help them give an accurate diagnosis.

There are many things you can do to help prevent arthritis in your pet with one of the most important being their diet. An organic diet that is full of vitamins and minerals is the foundation of keeping your beloved dog or cat healthy and pain-free.

Also be sure to take your pet out for some light exercise everyday to ensure their joints stay strong and their muscles and tendons retain flexibility. A game of chase the mouse will often help cats with arthritis. Your dog might not want to go with you for a walk if they already have arthritis but you should encourage them to come along. A light walk will help to improve the circulation of blood through the joints and ultimately ease the discomfort your dog is experiencing. It will also help to cleanse them of the inflammation-causing substances that build up in their joints.

If your pet has already been diagnosed with arthritis then there are several herbs and homeopathic remedies which can be helpful in managing arthritis and its associated discomfort. Glucosamine, lecithin, harpagophytum procumbens, natrium sulfate, arthrospira platenis, natrium phosphoricum and calcium fluoride can all be helpful to your cat or dog.

The importance of keeping your pet’s weight controlled cannot be overstated. A pet that is overweight will be more likely to get arthritis because of the extra work their joints have to do in order to simply support the added fat. If your pet already has arthritis, the added weight will make it a lot more painful for him/her to move around.

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

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Walking An “Alpha Dog”: 5 Tips for Walking Dominant Dogs

2010-05-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies
by B. Chancey

Lately I have been trying to take more walks with my six month old puppy Atticus; every time he sees me getting the leash he gets so excited. After several minutes of hyperactivity, he sits patiently while I put the leash on him. I have been trying some techniques with him while we walk such as, teaching him to walk only on my right side, not to walk ahead of me, and keeping a steady pace.

A couple days ago while going for our morning walk, Atticus wasn’t listening to my commands, and I felt as though I was forcing him to walk properly. I crouched down to pet him and to try to understand why he was acting this way; he squirmed his way out of his collar and bolted down the street. Like a mad woman, I ran after my 55 pound dog with his tongue sticking out and flapping in the wind almost to say “catch me if you can”.

Finally after repeatedly calling his name and telling him to sit, I managed to put the collar and leash back on him, and we returned home. Thank goodness no one was around to see me talking to Atticus the whole way home saying things such as “what in the world were you thinking” and “why would you do that?”.

Turns out my training tactics were wrong. I have been giving him complete freedom during our morning strolls and this led to his dominate behavior. After researching numerous sites on “Dog Walking Training Techniques”, I learned that I needed to act more like the leader, be more confident and stop my “alpha dog” in his tracks.

5 Tips on How to Walk a Dog

1. Make your dog come to you when it’s time to put on its leash.

2. Always be one step in front of your dog when beginning the walk .

3. The collar should be far up the neck and the lead should be relaxed.

4. If you pass a barking dog or other distraction keep moving forward. If your dog is distracted tug on the lead to direct the attention back to the walk at hand.

5. The dog should not sniff the ground or relieve itself where it pleases; a dog should concentrate on following its handler while walking. The dog needs to see you are leading it, it is not leading you.

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Are Your Routine Changes Distressing Your Pet

2010-02-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies

In today’s chaotic world, combined with the unsteady state of the economy, more and more people are being forced to alter their lifestyles – whether that means taking on a second job to make ends meet or cutting back on little luxuries.

Regardless of the personal sacrifices, the effects of our stressors are trickling down to our pets. Whether our pets are being left alone for longer periods of time, not getting an extra 20 minutes of exercise, eating lesser quality food, or being the recipients of our vented frustrations, it’s important not to compromise the health of our pets, as the long-term effects can be very harmful.

While there are external forces you cannot always control, staying mindful can help maintain health in your pet and you – as studies have shown that pets can provide emotional support, lowered blood pressure and stress levels.

Making the Time

It’s easy to fall into the trap of “I’m too busy” for this or that… but when it comes to maintaining your pet’s health, it’s necessary to find the time for keeping your pet on a regular exercise and walking schedule.

As bladder problems can develop from your pet being forced to “hold it”, be sure to either find a friend or sitter for regular walks, or make it a break for yourself in between other obligations to spend the time with your pet.

In addition, maintaining a healthy weight, supported by regular exercise, can greatly help overall health and well-being.

Recognizing Behavioral Changes in Your Pet

Animals’ intuition is very strong. Be sure to keep an eye out for unusual behaviors in your pet, as these may be signs of underlying conditions such as aggression, anxiety, depression, or other health concerns. While you cannot always be a companion for your pet, you can provide support in other ways.

Advantages of Aromatherapy

Just as aromatherapy benefits humans, pets too can reap the therapeutic effects. Besides offering a pleasant smell, essential oils can provide many practical functions that assist the body.

Aromatherapy Can:

* Boost immunity
* Repel insects
* Lessen skin inflammation
* Address bad breath
* Reduce flatulence
* Treat motion sickness
* Provide a calming effect & soothe the nerves

First used by groomers and pet salons, you can affordably bring your pet positive results from at-home application. For instance, lavender and eucalyptus oils not only help repel insects, but can help your cat feel sleepy and relaxed.

Dogs can benefits from the effects of Roman chamomile, which can address ear infections plus ease the nerves of a dog in pain.

How to Use Aromatherapy

Before using aromatherapy on your pet, be sure to research the best dilution appropriate for the course of treatment you are seeking to avoid any harm. Never feed your pet alcohol or essential oil directly. Generally, one ounce of a base oil is recommended with 2-3 drops of essential oil.

Oils are commonly dabbed on the bottom of the paws, on acupressure points such as the ears, or lightly sprayed in a mist. You also do not have to apply aromatherapy directly to your pet, but can instead spray onto bedding.

As animals have a heightened sense of smell and may be prone to allergies, always be sure to use a mild solution the first few times to ensure a positive aromatherapy experience!

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet

2010-02-14T13:58:00.000-08:00

Article courtesy of Native Remedies

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet

* Chocolate
* Onions
* Garlic
* Nuts
* Avocado
* Pear pips, the kernels of plums, peaches and apricots, apple core pips
* Potato peelings and green looking potatoes
* Rhubarb leaves
* Moldy/spoiled foods
* Alcohol
* Yeast dough
* Coffee grounds, beans & tea
* Hops (used in home brewing)
* Tomato leaves & stems
* Broccoli
* Raisins and grapes
* Cigarettes, tobacco, cigars

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

How to Prevent Dog Dry Skin

2009-04-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

An expert can ascertain the general health of a pet simply by keenly observing the skin and coat. Dry skin tends to spoil the glossy coat and often leads to excessive itching and scratching in pets.

Before you do anything about it, it is advisable that you ensure that the dry skin and the resultant itching are not a result of a parasitic infection, an immune mediated diseases, allergies or a bacterial and fungal infection. Such disorders require immediate veterinarian attention and are better treated systemically.

Common conditions like dog or cat dandruff, flaking dry skin and canine or feline acne can be addressed with diet supplements, healthy nutritional diet and medication.

Winter dries human skin, especially hands and feet, and we need to keep the skin moist by applying moisturizing lotions. Just like humans, dogs also face skin problems during the winter. To ensure that your dog’s coat and skin remains in good condition, you need to remember certain basic aspects of dog skin and coat care:

* Dogs do not need a daily bath with soap or shampoo. Excessive use of soap and shampoo can dry the skin.
* Bathe your dog only to keep him clean. Human shampoos are too harsh for dogs. Use only mild shampoos meant specifically for dogs, and buy only a reputable brand.
* Rinse the coat with a moisturizer after every bath.
* Dead hair and dander need to be removed from a dog’s coat. Regular brushing will ensure a coat free from extraneous substances.
* Consult with your veterinarian about your dog’s diet. Ensure that you are feeding him the right amount of fatty acids and other ingredients necessary for healthy skin and coat.
* Stay away from inexpensive dog food since these are not likely to contain adequate amounts of fatty acids, and a lack of adequate amounts of fatty acids can result in dry skin. To be safe, buy only reputable brands of dog food. If you are looking to change your brand or try a new brand of dog food, read the label carefully to ensure that it has all the nutrients that are required for the healthy growth of your dog.
* You can also search the market for nutritional supplements that have the required nutritional components that keep the dog skin healthy and looking good.

Dog skin problems are almost always related to poor nutrition and physical problems. Dry skin will cause excessive canine or feline hair loss and can give an unsightly appearance to the pet.

Basically, healthy skin comes from a healthy body. If your dog is healthy within, his skin and coat are bound to be lush and shiny. Feed your dog with natural foods after consultation with your veterinarian.

Get More Info on PetAlive Skin & Coat Tonic to Keep Your Pet's Coat and Skin Healthy

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

How to Give a Dog a Shiny Coat

2009-04-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

A healthy skin and a lustrous coat is a matter of great owner pride. It also reflects the internal good health of a pet. Two things are extremely necessary for a good, shiny dog coat - internal health and external care.

Internal Health

Beauty, as you know, is only skin deep. A strong and healthy body can ensure a healthy skin and, in turn, a shiny coat. Whatever the color or type of coat, proper nutrition is instrumental in improving the appearance of a dog’s coat. There are many dog food brands that claim to have adequate nutrients that can help in obtaining a good coat for your pet. You can also choose to give your dog a nutritional coat supplement. These supplements can provide all the specific nutrients that are necessary for a good skin and coat.

Before buying dog food make sure that you read the label for its contents. Not all the pet foods available in the market pay proper heed to the quantitative and qualitative requirements of dogs. Carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals need to be in a proper balance to ensure a healthy skin. In case you are formulating a homemade diet, you should consult your veterinarian first.

Intestinal parasites can gobble up nutrients and cause conditions that ultimately reflect on the skin and coat of the dog. The dog becomes weaker; the coat may lose its luster and require extra care. These parasites are mostly visible in the feces and can be treated with regular de-worming and prevented through cleaning the environment.

External care

All dogs need to be groomed by their owners. Cats are however, better at grooming themselves and therefore the amount of grooming, cleaning and bathing required for them is less. There are combs available for removing mats and untangling long hair. Regular brushing can remove dead hair and small scales from the skin and hair. Regular grooming can also help in early detection and treatment of external parasites.

External parasites like ear mites and fleas or ticks induce excessive scratching in pets that ends up in causing lesions and patches, or canine and feline hair loss. External parasites can be very uncomfortable for the dog and can make life miserable.

Shampoos meant for humans can cause allergic reactions in dogs. Specialized dog shampoos have a lower pH level, which is more suited to a dog’s skin. These shampoos are also treated especially so that they do not cause irritation in the eyes. If your dog has an itchy skin or if his coat looks rough and patchy, you can choose a shampoo meant for the specific condition. An organic shampoo is preferred if you know that your dog develops allergies or irritations from using normal dog shampoos.

Quite a few cat and dog skin problems can be detected early if you groom your pet regularly. Some conditions like dog and cat dandruff, dog or cat acne and lesions are usually mild in nature and easy to treat at home.

How has Skin and Coat Tonic helped others?

“I can't tell you how pleased I am with this product. I have a one year old English Toy Spaniel who has been suffering from horrible itchy skin (this breed is apparently prone to skin problems). I tried a "skin balance" remedy offered by one of your competitors, with no results or relief whatsoever. After having Romeo on your Skin and Coat Tonic for about 3 weeks now, the improvement in his skin is about 80% (and hopefully will continue to improve the longer he is on this formula). I also noticed that where his skin was previously hot to the touch, it is now normal and cool, and he is comfortable and relieved. Thanks you for a wonderful product. I will keep him on this forever.” —Linda, CA, USA

“We really want to thank you for a great product which works well to bring the shine back to our cat's fur and also helps her in other healthy ways. We will certainly follow your advice and use the capsules every few months as a 'top up' to keep her in top health.” —Zelda and Mick

Get More Info on PetAlive Skin & Coat Tonic to Keep Your Pet's Coat and Skin Healthy

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Dog Respiratory Acupuncture Centers

2009-04-25T21:30:00.000-07:00

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the philosophy that all beings, humans and animals are small parts of the infinite universe. TCM believes that all life is governed by certain laws that are common to living and non-living beings. It attempts to diagnose imbalances in the body’s vital energy (Qi) to determine the cause behind a condition. It then arrives at a treatment that aims at removing the causes of the imbalance in the patient’s environment.

Acupuncture is a part of the larger traditional Chinese medical system that covers moxibustion (the burning of moxa, a soft woolly mass prepared from the young leaves of Artemisia Chinensis, and used as a cautery by burning it on the skin), massage, breathing exercises, diet, herbal medicine and philosophy of life.

Acupuncture, explained simply, is the treatment of practically any disease or condition by inserting fine needles in various points in the body. This is done to evoke specific physiological responses. It is an ancient procedure and is considered to have been originated in China around 480 B.C. However, some of the earliest records of veterinarian use of primitive acupuncture for treating elephants in India date as far back as some 3000 years ago. In 1973, acupuncture was declared as an experimental medical procedure by The American Medical Association Council of Scientific Affairs, apparently due to the government’s efforts to improve relations with China.

With the passage of time, conventional scientific methods have been incorporated into the ancient Chinese philosophy. This has made it increasingly difficult for conventional medicine to dismiss acupuncture as an accepted medical practice.

As the use of acupuncture gained acceptance in the treatment of humans, veterinary acupuncture also moved closer to mainstream medicine. However, the popularity of acupuncture, including veterinary acupuncture, can be ascribed to referrals by satisfied patients rather than acceptance by the medical community at large.

In canine conditions, favorable results have been reported in the treatment of a number of diseases. Acupuncture treatment has shown encouraging results in addressing respiratory problems, including chronic conditions like canine asthma and common conditions like kennel cough in dogs. TCM believes that respiratory problems can arise from a disorder of the lungs, spleen, pancreas, liver or kidney. Experts in acupuncture identify energy pathways (meridians) and insert needles to cure conditions like asthma and kennel cough in canines. The physiological responses stimulated by the release of Qi can alleviate the symptoms of kennel cough. Dogs have been known to benefit from this treatment to a large extent.

Given the popularity of acupuncture treatment, acupuncture for pets is now a big business worldwide. There are nearly 3 million veterinarian and medical practitioners of acupuncture, out of which approximately 850,000 are involved in treating animals. Apart from standalone veterinarian acupuncturists, there are numerous centers in and outside USA dedicated to specifically treat chronic and common respiratory problems in pets.

Get More Info on PetAlive KC-Defense for the Treatment and Prevention of Kennel Cough

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

What is Kennel Cough?

2009-04-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

Kennel cough in dogs is as common as common cold in humans. If you have ever consulted a specialist before boarding your dog in a kennel, you would probably remember that you were advised to get your dog vaccinated. Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can infect an entire kennel in a matter of days. Dogs can pick up infection from other places like dog shows, training classes, veterinarian clinics or from stray dogs when you take him out for a walk.

Kennel cough in canines is caused by bacteria or viruses or a combination of both. The most common infectious agents are bordetella bronchiseptica (bacteria) and parainfluenza and adenovirus(viruses). Besides, other pathogenic agents like mycoplasma may also cause kennel cough in dogs. Mycoplasmas are small parasitic bacteria that can survive without oxygen and cause pneumonia as well as infections of the urinary tract. The initial symptoms of dry cough in puppies and adult dogs surface after the incubation period of the agent causing the infection has been completed. This ranges from three to seven days.

Although the infection on its own causes an insignificant damage to the lining of bronchi and trachea, it results in an exposure of the nerves. The exposed nerve endings get irritated as air passes over them and results in a dry hacking cough. As such, exercise also triggers a persistent dry cough as the dog breathes hard to cool itself.

The duration of kennel cough in dogs is limited to fifteen days and the lining heals on its own once the infection disappears. Kennel cough is rarely life threatening but if symptoms like lack of appetite and fever are observed it is better to consult a veterinarian for treatment. Kennel cough in puppies is considered to be potentially dangerous and should be treated well in time to avoid the development of secondary infections.

It may be difficult to avoid exposure to infectious agents all the time. Vaccination is often advised for protection and to restrict the severity and frequency of infection. Two types of vaccination, intranasal and injectable, are available. But these may not guarantee protection from infection as there are a number of agents that cause kennel cough. You may also be required to update vaccination frequently, especially before boarding. Treatment of kennel cough involves the use of antibiotics for killing the pathogen. Cough syrups are also used for alleviating symptoms of cough.

A strong immune system is a natural mode of prevention. You may also look for natural remedies like dietary modifications, herbs and homeopathic remedies for boosting your dog’s natural ability to combat infections.

Get More Info on PetAlive KC-Defense for the Treatment and Prevention of Kennel Cough

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Tips for Settling Stomachs & Supporting Digestion

2009-04-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

While your pet may initiate certain behaviors regarding eating habits and exercise, through the evolution of domestication, many of these normal processes fall under the influence of our hands. Therefore, making just a few tweaks in routine may greatly benefit your pet’s overall health and well-being.

* Do not change diet suddenly, but slowly introduce fresh, raw and unprocessed food into your pet's daily diet, while reducing commercial foods and foods with little nutritious value.
* Keep diet varied and interesting, but watch out for foods that your pet may be allergic to.
* Regular exercise helps to build up a healthy appetite and gets all organs in the body functioning well. It also helps to relieve stress and contributes to a healthy, happy pet!
* Animals need time outdoors where they can naturally seek out herbs that will help them maintain the health of their digestive system. All carnivorous animals, including dogs and cats, will naturally induce vomiting from time to time as a cleansing process to get rid of excess bile, mucus and other impurities. They do this by eating plants which will induce purging. This is healthy and animals should not be reprimanded for it!
* Add green sprouts to your pet's food every day. This is an easy way to improve digestion and supply much-needed vitamins, amino acids, and trace elements.
* Consult a holistic veterinarian for advice about the health problems associated with routine vaccination and regular antibiotic use.
* For animals that suffer from constipation, ensure adequate roughage in the diet.

Related Products

Digestive Support™

Herbal digestive tonic supports healthy digestion in pets

RuniPoo Relief™

Supports healthy digestion and bowel functioning

Flatulence Preventer™

Promote digestive health and reduce common gas and unpleasant smells

Natural Moves for Pets™

For regular bowels and digestive system

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

What Are the Signs of Diabetes in Dogs?

2009-04-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

Diabetes mellitus or simply diabetes is a common condition in dogs. However scary it may sound it is not the end of the world for your dog because diabetes in canines is manageable if proper care is taken. Diet, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and medication are key aspects of adequate care. Diabetes, however, can cause an early death of the dog if it is not treated. High blood sugar levels produce clinical symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats that can help in early detection.

Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels rise due to the inability of the pancreas to produce enough insulin to manage glucose (a primary sugar) in the food that the a dog ingests. In another situation, cells become resistant to the action of insulin, which also results in a high blood sugar level. If not managed within reasonable time, it leads to abnormally high blood sugar levels, a condition known as hyperglycemia.

High blood sugar results when the dog’s body is unable to process and convert glucose to energy for maintaining healthy growth. The excess glucose in the blood has to go somewhere if it is not used by the body’s systems and it leaks over to the urine. This leads to excessive urination (polyuria). As fluids in the body reduce, the dog feels the need to drink more (polydipsia) to compensate the loss due to excessive urination.

Besides these two most prominent symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats some of the other symptoms indicative of diabetes are:

* Weight loss
* Poor skin and hair coat
* Frequent bladder infections

On observing these signs, a veterinarian should be consulted at the first opportunity because untreated diabetes can lead to:

* Loss of appetite
* Vomiting
* Diabetic neuropathy, especially weakness in rear legs
* Dehydration

Left untreated, diabetes can progress and cause some life threatening disorders like diabetic acidosis, a condition where abnormally high acidity is accompanied by an accumulation of ketone bodies. Some of the other complications arising out of unregulated blood sugar levels include liver and kidney dysfunction and canine blindness.

The cause of diabetes still remains a mystery despite large amounts of research that has been initiated in this area. Chronic inflammation of the pancreas and genetic predisposition are often suspected to be the cause in most of the cases. Breeds like Poodles, Schnauzers, Keeshounds, Cairn Terriers, Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels and Beagles are more predisposed to developing diabetes.

Once your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, close monitoring of diet and regular checking of blood sugar levels is necessary. Minor increase in blood sugar can be managed by controlling and regulating diet. Abnormally high levels require insulin injections. Injection of insulin needs to be correlated with the amount, quality and timing of food intake. If you are taking care of your dog at home, make sure you get proper instructions about how and when to inject insulin on your own. Since excess insulin can lead to hypoglycemia or extremely low blood sugar levels, this is another area that you must understand well.

Get More Info on PetAlive GlucoBalance for Treatment of Diabetes in Pets

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

How to Care For a Dog With Diabetes

2009-04-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

Treating diabetes in dogs and cats involves regular monitoring of diet, blood sugar levels and insulin levels. The monitoring needs to be done on a daily basis and pet owners obviously cannot be expected to visit a veterinarian daily for the daily insulin dose. Understanding the basics of home care helps to manage a diabetic dog effectively. Once the symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats have led to a confirmed diagnosis, the goal of treatment for diabetes is to control the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Efficient control can help your pet in leading a comfortable life On the other hand uncontrolled hyperglycemia (abnormally high blood sugar) can shorten life span due to complications like kidney disease, retinopathy and arteriosclerosis.
Insulin Injections

* Insulin must be administered at the time suggested by the veterinarian. Administration of the correct recommended dose is also important. Try to keep the dose as close as prescribed by understanding the markings on the syringe that you are using. Note that the markings on syringes may vary according to size of the syringe.
* Injections administered should be subcutaneous and learning how to inject needs practice. Such a skill comes easily once you have done it in front of the veterinarian for a couple of times.

Monitoring Blood Sugar

* High sugar levels almost always spill over to urine. Monitor how your dog responds to exogenous insulin by using strips to test level of sugar in the urine. A urine testing kit contains instructions about the change in color of the strips once it is dipped in urine. Different colors represent normal to danger zone of sugar level. In case of doubt, consult your veterinarian.
* It is advisable to keep a record of the test strip results and the amount of insulin injected. A study of this record will help you in understanding the relation between dosage and level of sugar in the urine and also give a definite picture to veterinarian on your next visit.

Dietary Management

* Diet plays an extremely important role in controlling blood sugar. Glucose is the primary source of energy in the body and it cannot be totally avoided. Many foods contain substances that are rich in sugar content even if they are not sweet to taste. Feed your dog with a diet that has high fiber content. A diet low in carbohydrates and fats is also recommended. The meal time schedule is related to the time of the insulin injections. Make sure you have discussed this with the veterinarian.

Exercise

* Fix up a regular exercise regime to help in maintaining blood sugar levels. Such a practice may even lead to a reduction of insulin dosage over time. Make sure that you carry some source of sugar like corn syrup or honey in case of an insulin reaction especially when you are taking your dog out for a walk or exercise. As soon as you see any symptoms of hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood sugar) immediately rub some on the gums and take him to the veterinarian immediately.

Diabetes is a manageable disease and there is no reason why your canine friend cannot survive and lead a normal, healthy and active life even after being diagnosed as diabetic.

Get More Info on PetAlive GlucoBalance for Treatment of Diabetes in Pets

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Preventing and Treating Roundworms in Dogs

2009-04-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

It is not easy to break the life cycle of intestinal parasites like roundworms and dog tapeworms. The main hurdles are the encysted larvae that can remain in a dog’s body for years. Furthermore, since worm eggs are resistant to environmental changes, they can remain dormant for a long time before becoming active.

Looking for an appropriate treatment at the first visible signs of worms in dogs is the first thing that should be done. Noticing the symptoms of worms in dogs depends on the amount of time that you spend with your dog and the level of care that you provide for your pet. Keeping your eyes open for such symptoms should be a priority as these parasites can pass on to humans, too. Preventive measures become equally important so that you can ensure that your pet does not get infected again.

Prevention

There are three ways by which roundworms infect dogs:

* Larvae present in female dogs can be passed on to puppies in utero and through mother’s milk.
* Larvae in the tissues of an intermediate host can be indirectly ingested when the animal is eaten.
* Eggs in the environment can be directly consumed by dogs.

All worm elimination programs should address all three at the same time for prevention to be effective.

Encysted larvae are the most difficult to eliminate. Total elimination is possible only if the animal is isolated. Complete de-infestation can occur only if female dogs are de-wormed regularly. This results in total elimination over generations. Ensuring that a pregnant bitch is de-wormed from the 40th day of conception to the 14th day after delivering the litter can help in restricting the transmission of larvae to her litter. Feline parasites generally do not pass on in the uterus. Bottle-feeding kittens ensures that they are not passed on through mother’s milk either.

A significant part of preventing roundworm infestation pertains to the hygienic conditions of the environment. Cleaning the environment involves:

* A regular routine of disposing the pet’s droppings
* Ensuring that the floor of the dog’s house is clean and dirt free
* Weekly cleaning of the area with household bleach diluted in water
* Removing contaminated soil, digging up to one foot and turning it over is also acceptable
* Killing mice and rodents as they are a potential source of the infection

TREATMENT

Roundworm treatment is simple. All you need to do is to administer de-worming drugs periodically until the entire system is clean. The de-worming drugs are safe and effective but should be used under a veterinarian’s care. Guidance on dosage and time period is imperative because stopgap medications are not likely to produce the desired results. De-worming needs to be repeated at bi-weekly or monthly intervals. Some drugs only anesthetize roundworms, which are then excreted and could re-infect the dog.

It is important to remember that roundworm eggs are highly resistant to environmental changes and disinfectants. Cleaning the area with disinfectants only removes the sticky properties of the roundworm eggshell and makes them soluble in water. These also need to be removed for complete and effective prevention.

Get More Info on PetAlive Parasite Dr. Capsules to Expel Your Pet's Internal Parsites Like Heartworm, Roundworm and Tapeworm

Why and How to Clean and Soothe Dog Ears

2009-04-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

At some time or another, pet health issues plague everyone who has a pet. Among other areas of concern, the one that can area that can pose a fair number of problems are ear infections. Ear mites and ear infections are some of the major problems that can cause discomfort your pets and can lead to many a sleepless nights for the owner as well. A dog with ear mites is a less common phenomenon than a cat ear with mites but if contracted, it can cause high levels of stress for the dog and the owner.

The one way in which you can ensure that you never have to face issues related to dog ear infections is to adopt good hygiene practices. Once these practices are regular habit, the chances of your dog contracting any kind of ear infection are reduced considerably. It is therefore important to include ear cleaning and examination as part of a weekly ritual. If you use a professional grooming service, make sure that they include ear cleaning along with the regular bath, grooming, and styling services.

In case you do not use these services, ensure that you clean your dog’s ears every week. Cleaning the ears on your own is not really a difficult job. Remembering is the hardest part! Lift the ear flap and expose the ear canal. Cover your index finger with a soft moist cloth and clean the inside of the ear flap and the exposed area. You can use a homemade cotton swab to clean the inaccessible parts.

Another aspect of dog ear hygiene is hair growth. Hair can grow in the ear canals in large quantities and this is true especially in the case of Poodles, Terriers and some other particularly hairy breeds. The hair can trap water and create a warm, humid environment where ear mites and bacteria can breed. It becomes crucial to remove excess hair from the inside of the ear to ensure that bacteria and mites do not grow there. A simple procedure that involves the removal of excess hair every two weeks can help maintain good hygiene and save you from many ear infections. To remove hair, lift the ear flap, expose the inside, and remove the excess hairs that you see on the external ear opening. Make sure that you pull in the direction of the hair growth and remove only small amounts of hair at a time. Make sure that you do not pull any hair if you see some signs of inflammation or infection.

Dogs with ears that droop over the ear canal are likely to face issues with ear infections and ear mites more than dogs that have ears that are erect. Excessive bacteria and mites can cause ear infections, swelling, inflammation and painful redness if not treated properly. Some severe cases can also lead to deafness.

Unfortunately many dog owners do not realize that head shaking scratching of the ears are often symptoms of ear ailments rather than normal dog behaviors. Any kind of an ear infection that occurs due to ear mites needs to be referred to a veterinarian. Keeping a check on ear hygiene can help you avoid such problems. And even if your dog does get infected, there are home remedies for dog ear mites that you can explore if you spot the issue in advance.

Get more info on PetAlive Ear Dr. for Ear Infections and Ear Mites.

Get more info on PetAlive BeFree Flea Shampoo - Cleansing shampoo helps deter fleas, flies and mosquitoes for dogs

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Regular bath and Grooming Helps deter Fleas, Flies and Mosquitoes

2009-04-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

An itch is one of the most irritating sensations for a dog! An itch can be caused by a wide number of factors that causes nerve endings in the skin surface to become irritated. Latest experiments have shown that the animal body is covered by "itch spots" (small spots of the skin that convey a sensation of itch when lightly touched).

An itch can only be evoked from superficial layers of skin and mild scratching is one of the best ways to relieve the itch. Canines can also be observed biting or chewing their tail in order to control itching caused by a tick or fleas.

The natural way

There is a lot that can be done naturally to help relieve itchiness for your dog. Try not to use harsh detergents on your dog’s bedding and don’t feed them human treats. Always dry your dog off properly after a swim or bath and never use human shampoo treatments or cosmetics on your animals.

What is BeFree Flea Shampoo?
Cleansing shampoo helps deter fleas, flies and mosquitoes for dogs

BeFree Flea Shampoo is a natural cleansing herbal shampoo for dogs using only tested, natural ingredients, supporting a residual mosquito, flea and fly deterrent effect while encouraging healthy, clear skin and coats.

How has BeFree Flea Shampoo helped others?

“…Our dogs used to scratch and bite at themselves, but after one wash with BeFree Flea Shampoo we all noticed a difference, they were calmed and soothed. No more itching. It’s fantastic!” -Laura, WA, USA

“I had to write in and let you know how this product has helped my Staffie. She had sensitive skin and I used to hate giving her dips at the local ASPCA. BeFree Flea Shampoo has really helped her and has made such a difference- thanks for a natural solution.” -Bill, WA, USA

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Get more info on PetAlive BeFree Flea Shampoo - Cleansing shampoo helps deter fleas, flies and mosquitoes for dogs

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!

Traveling with Nervous Dog in the Car

2009-04-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

Traveling long distances can get stressful even for humans. As a pet owner, you might have faced difficulties with your dog while traveling. Sometimes getting the dog inside the car for a ride can be particularly challenging. If you have been taking your dog in the car only to visit the vet, he is likely to be unwilling to get into a car irrespective of whether you are planning to go to the playground, a holiday vacation or the vet.

This does not mean that you cannot travel with your dog. Just as dogs have to be trained to live within the house, they need to be trained to travel in a car.

Since car rides may stress your dog, training the dog for travel in a car actually involves relieving stress in pets. It is important that you ensure that the agitation and anxiety that arises out of a cramped and close environment be released.

The earlier you start the training, the better it is for you and the dog. Ensure that your first few trips with the puppy are to the playground or a field. This ensures that the association with a car ride is pleasant. If the first car trip is to the vet, it is likely to make him dread car travel forever.

For older dogs you need to desensitize them to the anxiety associated with car travel. Don’t try and push or force him into the car. Lure him with patience. Try giving him treats in the car without even starting the engine. Allow him to get used to the car before you actually take him anywhere.

If you are traveling with someone, ask your companion to pat the dog every now and then. This will help assure your pet that he is not alone. If you are traveling alone, put a blanket at a place where the dog can lie down and not bother you while driving.

Remember that dogs are daytime animals and used to daytime activities. They need to get to know the land in order to identify with it through smell and vision. Natural association with the environment is the best way for acclimation. On long trips, it is advisable to stop the car occasionally and take the dog for a walk. This will help in allowing him to stretch his legs as well.

Like humans, dogs can also get car sick. Do not feed the dog before traveling. Treat the dog when you arrive at your destination. The association with the treat will help you on your return trip.

Remember, when it comes to handling stress situations like car travel, it is not the breed or size of the dog that matters. Separation anxiety in dogs, trauma, medical disorders and a change in environment can affect a dog of any size. Sedation while traveling does help but you need to be prepared to handle the side effects of the medicine. Appropriate handling with proper understanding of dog psychology can help in relieving stress in pets.

Get More Info on PetCalm for Stressed, Anxious and Highly Strung Pets

Natural products for your pet's health are available from Pet Alive, a branch of Native Remedies. Visit the site to learn more about how you can protect your pets' health and ensure that they live long and healthy lives. Click-here NOW!