SIBERIAN HUSKY HEALTH ISSUES

Overall, the Siberian Husky breed is a very healthy breed of dog. Unlike some dog breeds, Huskies do not seem to have been overbred by irresponsible breeders, causing an abundance of genetic health problems for Siberian Huskies. However, there are a small number of genetically based defects that can cause Siberian Husky health issues. 

PIN THIS!

Siberian Husky Health Issues

Through many generations of selective and responsible breeding, the Husky's solid genetics have retained the robust health of this sturdy, athletic breed of dog. But it's nearly impossible for any dog breed to have absolutely no health issues common to their breed, and Huskies are no exception.

SHOULD ANIMAL TESTING BE BANNED?

Animal testing is currently required by law in the U.S. for nearly all new medicines and drugs, medical equipment and pesticides Americans use every day. But should animal testing be banned?  My answer to that question is a resounding Yes. Here’s why. 

I don’t understand why the inhumane, and in my mind barbaric, practice of testing drugs on animals is still happening in the 21^st century.  Technology has come so far. Reliable and even better alternatives to animal testing of new medications and other pharmaceutical products are available. 

Subjecting helpless animals to a life of abuse and anguish is a form of intentional animal cruelty.  Toxic substances being orally force feed, forced inhalation for hours at a time, and forced skin contact is an everyday occurrence for lab animals worldwide. 

Should Animal Testing Be Banned?

The two industries that have used and abused animals in product testing are the Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics industries.  In my earlier post on CrueltyFree Makeup and Cosmetics I discussed testing makeup and other cosmetics on animals, and provided a list of “cruelty free” makeup and cosmetics brands. 

Today I want to talk about animal testing in the pharmaceutical industry, which is horrific, and a bit more complicated. 

There is a lot of debate going on amongst scientists, legislators and other parties. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that prescription drugs be tested on animals before they can be placed in human trials for testing. Sadly, we have a long way to go to convince the FDA that there are non-animal testing methods believed by many scientists to be as effective or even more effective than testing on animals.

FRUITS THAT ARE GOOD FOR DOGS

Summer is the time to enjoy fresh fruit! Humans aren't the only ones who love cool refreshing fruit in Summer, our dogs do too! Not every fruit is safe for dogs to eat, but there are several fruits that are good for dogs. 

Fruit contains healthy vitamins, minerals and fiber. Most fruit is hydrating as well, which is beneficial for dogs on those hot days of Summer.  The extra boost of fiber in many fruits can also be beneficial for dog health. 

I often give my dog fruit or vegetables as an alternative to packaged treats. They're fresher and have fewer calories. I add them to her food as a meal topper as well. My dog Icy loves fruit and veggies!

Many fruits are healthy for dogs, and they love it!

CONSUMERS DEMAND CRUELTY FREE COSMETICS PRODUCTS

I have had Enough! I’m tired of companies that use and abuse animals in order to bring new, profit boosting products to market. More and more, consumers demand Cruelty Free cosmetics products from the brands they support.

I need to get my feelings on this controversial subject out. I need to talk about the inhumane practices too many companies are still using, or practices they are ignoring at their supplier facilities, in order to bring their makeup and cosmetics products to market. It is animal cruelty, plain and simple.

A sign that displays prominently in a LUSH cosmetics store

I need to take action and make some changes about which companies I choose to support by buying, or not buying, their products. I hope you’ll join me in consciously making cruelty free makeup and cosmetic product choices, if you haven’t already.

WHAT VEGETABLES CAN DOGS EAT?

We know vegetables are super healthy. They contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. People consider vegetables to be essential to our good health. Many people want their dogs to have these health benefits too, so they include vegetables in their dog's diet. But are vegetables good for dogs, and if so what vegetables can dogs eat? 

My dog loves carrots!

FOURTH OF JULY SAFETY TIPS FOR DOGS

Each year on the 4th of July, Americans celebrate our Independence Day. It's a party every year, but not so much for dogs. Thanks to scary fireworks and holiday weekend travel, more dogs are lost during 4th of July weekend than any other time of year! Two of the most important Fourth of July Safety Tips For Dogs focus on reducing dog anxiety caused by fireworks, and limiting the risk of dogs getting lost on July 4th weekend. Taking precautions to keep our dogs safe on 4th of July is critical! 

Fourth of July Safety Tips For Dogs

HOW TO TAKE A DOG'S TEMPERATURE

I do so many things at home to keep my dog healthy. I choose her dog food and treats carefully, reading ingredients labels incessantly and being cautious about where they are made. I add healthy vegetables, fruit, eggs, fish and fish oil to her food. I give her heartworm, flea and tick medication. We get lots of exercise. We visit the Veterinarian regularly and keep up with required vaccinations.  I make sure she's brushed, ears are clean, and her nails are in good shape.  But I recently realized that I have never taken my dog's temperature at home. In fact, I had no idea how to take a dog's temperature myself! 

How to take a dog's temperature