ARTHRITIS IN DOGS; CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, and TREATMENT

Arthritis in dogs is a common problem, especially in senior dogs 8 years old +, as well as larger breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Mastiffs. In addition, obese dogs of any breed are also at greater risk of developing Arthritis. Arthritis in dogs; causes, symptoms, and treatment are valuable of keeping your dog healthy and pain free.

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS IN DOGS?

Arthritis in dogs is also known as Osteoarthritis in dogs, Dejenerative Joint Disease in dogs, or 

Canine arthritis. But whatever you call it, it's a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration of cartilage. Wear and tear of the cartilage around the joints causes this deterioration and subsequent inflammation.

A dog's cartilage is the cushioning that allows their joints to move easily and enables dogs to have full range of motion.  When cartilage starts breaking down it causes inflammation, pain, and a decrease in range of motion for the dog.

Most often, Arthritis effects a dog's limbs and lower spine.  It is a progressive condition for which there is No cure. However, if you identify and address it early, your dog can stay active and maintain very good quality of life for years to come!

3 OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DOG TRAINING COMMANDS

Training a dog takes time and patience. Dog training isn't a one and done activity, it's an ongoing process. In my experience, teaching your dog 3 of the most important dog training commands should be at the top of every dog owners list.  

I consider these 3 basic obedience commands for dogs to be more than training, they're an important part of keeping a dog safe throughout her life!

3 of The Most Important Dog Training Commands

WHAT IS THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE IN HOLISTIC HEALING FOR PETS?

What is the wave of the future in holistic healing for pets? To determine the future of holistic healing for pets, we must first look to it's past.  I'm delighted to turn the blog over for a wonderful Guest Blog Post written by Jody Miller-Young, Certified Pet Homeopathic Educator (CPHE).  Jody is well versed in the use of homeopathic healing for pets, and is the creator of the program Hound Healer Homeopathy; How To Help Our Pets Live Longer, Healthier Lives. The program teaches pet parents natural healing through homeopathy and nutrition, so they can take back control of their pet's health. Take it away Jody!

DOG FRIENDLY WALKING TRAIL IN JUPITER, FLORIDA

We were delighted to discover this fabulous dog friendly walking trail in Jupiter, Florida! It's not your typical dog friendly park area, it's a 2.5 mile riverwalk along the intracoastal waterway on the Jupiter Inlet.

Harborside Riverwalk Dog Friendly Walking Trail in Jupiter Florida

The Harborside Riverwalk is a great way for both dogs and their people to get exercise together, walking this 5 mile roundtrip dog friendly trail. Dogs are welcome everywhere outdoors in this pet friendly park area, and must be leashed at all times. 

Icy loves the dog friendly Harborside Riverwalk in Jupiter, FL 

HOW TO STOP A DOG FROM DIGGING

Spring is in the air! Snow is melted, trees are waking from their slumber, and Spring flowers are peeking through the soil. The soft ground is just right for gardening. Your dog agrees and he can't wait to dig up that soft, fresh earth! Will your dog make like an excavator and destroy your beautiful yard and garden before Summer? Not if you follow these tips on how to stop a dog from digging!

How To Stop a Dog From Digging in the Yard

TIPS ON HOW TO PREVENT DOG THEFT

Since the COVID19 Pandemic, dog theft is on the rise. But you don't have to be a victim, there are steps you can take to keep your dog safe. Follow these tips on how to prevent dog theft and avoid the heartache of losing your precious dog.

According to the AKC (American Kennel Club) pet theft statistics show that around 2 million pets are stolen each year in the U.S. Petfinder reports that only about 10% of stolen dogs are ever returned home. These are alarming statistics, the threat of dog theft is real! Take these steps to prevent dog theft.

How To Prevent Dog Theft

HOW TO KEEP A DOG'S HEART HEALTHY

Just like people, dogs are at risk for Heart Disease too.  In fact, it is estimated that nearly 8 million dogs suffer from heart disease. That translates into 10% of all dogs living in the U.S.  Heart disease can seriously impact your dog's quality of life, and his longevity. Knowing how to keep a dog's heart healthy is vital for your dog's health and longevity. 

It would be simple if there was just one thing that caused a dog or cat to get heart disease, we could just address that one thing and be done with it. But there is no one single cause for heart disease in dogs. Several factors can contribute to it, and senior dogs are considered to be at greater risk for heart disease.

I had the opportunity to speak about Pet Heart Health with Dr. Claire Walther, DMV and Petcare Medical Lead at Zoetis animal health company. After practicing at both Banfield and in an independent general Veterinary practice, Dr. Walther's passion for educating pet parents and other Veterinarians led her to join Zoetis.

How to Keep Your Dog's Heart Healthy

Dr. Walther shared her expertise about heart disease in dogs, and how to keep a dog's heart healthy.  Most of what we'll be discussing applies to both a dog's heart health and cat heart health as well. So c'mon pet parents, let's dive in!