Cancer is an immune dysfunction disease, regardless of the species. Canine cancers do affect some breeds more than others. Below is a list of some breeds and the cancers they are most likely to develop and/or are susceptible to:

• Bernese Mountain Dog – histolytic sarcoma (soft tissue)
• Boxer – lymphoma and brain cancer
• Cocker Spaniel – lymphoma
• Golden Retriever – lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma (rare, malignant neoplasm characterized by rapidly proliferating anaplastic cells derived from blood vessels and lining blood-filled spaces.)
• Labrador Retriever – lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma
English Springer Spaniel – Mammary gland cancer
• Pug – mast cell (a connective tissue cell)
• Shar-pei – mast cell
• Greyhound – osteosarcoma (malignant primary neoplasm of bone composed of a malignant connective tissue stroma with evidence of malignant osteoid, bone, or cartilage formation)
• Rottweiler – osteosarcoma
• Collie – nasal cancer
• Scottish Terrier – transitional cell carcinoma (bladder) and melanoma
• Chow chow – stomach cancer
• Flat Coated Retriever – transitional cell carcinoma (bladder) and melanoma

As is the case with any cancer, early detection is the key, which is why annual check-ups for your dog (also covered by veterinary pet insurance) are vitally important. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, http://www.avma.org/ , early warning signs of canine cancer for which you should stay abreast include:

1. Abnormal swellings that persist/continue to grow;
2. Sores that do not heal;
3. Weight loss and appetite loss;
4. Bleeding and/or discharge from any body opening;
5. Unusual/offensive odor;
6. Difficulty eating and/or swallowing;
7. Hesitation to exercise; loss of stamina/energy;
8. Persistent lameness or stiffness;
9. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

Pets Best Insurance is located in Boise, Idaho and provides pet insurance for the healthcare of dogs and cats. Jack Stephens, DVM is the president and co-founder of Pets Best and was the original founder of pet health insurance in the United States .

Learn more about the history of pet insurance at Petsbest.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Jack_Stevens

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As long as a dog has plenty of water, shade and a supply of cool air, it doesn’t matter whether their coat is long or short. As long as you provide a nice cool spot for your pooch, you should not need to worry about heatstroke. But, if you do notice any of the signs of heatstroke, you should be prepared to render immediate first aid. The common symptoms of heatstroke in your dog are excessive slobbering, panting and vomiting.

The first thing you need to do when you notice any heatstroke symptoms is get your dog to a cooler area. Massage your dogs legs to get the blood flowing and try to get him or her to drink water. But don’t let him drink too fast. Cool him off with cool water, just make sure the water isn’t so cold as to shock him. You should try to put him in a tub with a little bit of cool water.

If your dog is unconscious, you need to rush him to the vet immediately. You should still have somebody render first aid while getting him to the vet. Any first aid you perform is better than nothing at all and could safe your pooch’s life.

If your dog spends a good deal of time outside during the summer you can buy a cooling vest for him. These vests can keep your pet cool for an hour or more and is a great investment in your pets health.

Article by Nancy Cope of Pampered Dog Gifts – the place to shop for dog gifts and unique dog toys.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Cope

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Vitamins are very important to your dog’s health. Their function is to help the body repair itself through cell reproduction, bone growth, nerve function, energy and amino acid metabolism, blood clotting, aid in vision, and much more. A prolonged deficiency in any of the vitamins can cause health challenges from dry skin, fatigue, and vomiting to more serious problems like seizures, heart and nerve diseases. In most cases, just choosing a variety of quality food sources will give your dog all the vitamins he needs to live a long happy and healthy life. Let’s take a look at the two different types of vitamins: Water Soluble (All the B Vitamins and C), and Fat Soluble (Vitamins A, D, E, and K)

Water Soluble Vitamins
Let’s talk a moment about water soluble B vitamins which are very important for a healthy nervous system, aiding the body in healing, and helping to convert food into energy. Signs of deficiency could be anything from weight loss, poor skin and coat, nerve damage, anemia, and heart failure. B vitamins are unstable and are destroyed when exposed to heat, they are also lost from the body when stressed, and since they can’t be stored, they are flushed through the system quickly. These vitamins include: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid, cobalamin, and biotin. Vitamin C can be manufactured by the dog and supplementation is not necessary. However, aging and dogs under stress can benefit from having some extra C added to their diet.

Thiamin (B1) – Converts glucose to energy. Needed to jump start your dogs body. A must for proper function of the muscles and heart. Thiamine deficiency can result in a loss of appetite, spasms in the hind legs, heart and nerve disease. The best sources are found organ meat. Other sources are ground beef, chicken, turkey and brewer’s yeast. Some even say that it makes a good flea repellent. Oxidation destroys thiamine and so supermarket pet foods are more likely to be thiamine deficient.

Riboflavin (B2) – Necessary for red blood formation. A deficiency can lead to improper growth, cataracts, and heart failure.

Niacin (B3) – Improves blood circulation, and aids in central nervous system functioning. A loss of appetite can mean a possible deficiency.

Pantothenic Acid (B5) -It is important for good immune system and adrenal function, and vitamin and food utilization. It is essential in fighting allergies, inflammations, asthma, and infections. Good for reducing anxiety and stress. Sometime allergy symptoms can means a deficiency in B5 as well as premature graying in young dogs, and hair loss.

Pyridoxine (B6) -Essential for the metabolism of protein. It is required in the utilization of some minerals for a healthy nervous system, red blood cell production, good brain function, and a strong immune system. Anemia, poor growth, artery disease, kidney stones are all signs of deficiency.

Folic Acid (B9) – Red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and protein metabolism depend on this vitamin. Anemia is a sure sign of deficiency. As well as, depression, anxiety, and birth defects

Cobalamin (B12) – Dry skin and coat.. This vitamin prevents nerve damage, aids fertility, and promotes normal growth and development. Also helps in the digestion of food.

Biotin – Biotin is involved in the metabolism of sugar and fat. It is essential for thyroid and adrenal health, a strong nervous system, healthy reproduction, healthy skin, and good muscle tone. It is necessary for utilization of fat, proteins, and carbohydrates in the body. Eggs are high in Biotin, However, raw egg whites contain and protein called avidin that depletes biotin. So it is a must to cook the eggs first.

For more articles on dogs, please visit us at: http://muzzlemeals.com

While you’re there, check out our menu and choose from Fresh baked items such as our signature Cheddar Squirrels made with Organic Oat Flour, Potato Flour, and Real Cheddar Cheese.

How about a birthday cake for your very special canine? In addition, we carry Gourmet Bistro Canine Dinners. Customer favorite is Big City Prime, made with fresh ground beef, raw vegetables, and fruit.

Do you have a special dietary need? We will create a custom made dog food for you.

Muzzle Meals was started in efforts to create high quality food for dogs, using real human grade and edible ingredients. Our mission: To raise the standards of the pet food industry. Come say Hello. we’d love to hear from you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=April_Byrd-Kosberg

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There are a few misconceptions, however, about dogs immune system in that they are not naturally born with it; it must grow and develop as they grow and mature. In fact, several diseases and conditions can and are passed down to puppies as they are left to fend for themselves.

The immune system to be fully operational must recognize any type of foreign substance such as viruses, bacterium, or several types of pollen both natural and manmade. It is divided into two different sections depending on how specific their particular functions might be. These two sections are referred to as the innate and the adaptive immune system.

Types:

The first part of a dog’s immune system is the innate system. Any type of an organism has this system and it is a collection of biological processes. In leafs for example, the protective barrier is the waxy cuticles that protect them; in dogs it is their skin. This is the first line of defense for your pet and is considered a non-specific in that it is made to keep everything out of your dogs system.

It is also considered non-adaptive which means that its overall effectiveness is not changed by repeated attacks. Other parts of your dogs innate system includes the mucous in the respiratory system, their stomach acid and special chemicals that are in the saliva. They also have what is referred to phagocytes, which are cells that literally eat foreign substances. In fact, they will eat anything that comes into their territory.

The second part of a dog’s immune system is the adaptive form which defends your pet against specific attacks as they are naturally designed to use different tactics depending on the type of attack. These parts of the immune system communicate with each other and are so powerful that they will develop a memory system that can be used if attacked again. By doing so they are much quicker in responding and fighting back.

These systems work in harmony with each other but the innate system is the first of the defense mechanisms. It usually stops most invasions, but if it doesn’t, the adaptive system automatically goes into action.

In tandem they are usually very effective against any type of threat, but if the system becomes weak or is not fully developed, it can have huge effects on your dog’s health. If severe enough, it could cost them their lives.

The immune system in your dog, much like yours, is an incredible system. It fights bacteria, viruses, toxins and any type of parasite that attacks. However, it can malfunction and actually attack itself, referred to as autoimmunity, over react, which is called hypersensitivity, or just not work properly which is immune deficiency.

Natural Treatments:

There are several forms of natural treatments for your dog’s immune system including vitamins, minerals, as well as herbs.

Vitamin A:

This vitamin is essential for the natural protection of your dog’s skin which is their first line of attack. It plays a critical role in both the repairing and the protection processes of the tissues that surround the mouth, nose, throat, as well as the lungs. It is also essential in fighting eye infections and maintaining eyesight.

Vitamin C:

This vitamin is an antioxidant and helps the immune system naturally in several ways. It helps both protect against both bacterial as well as viral infections. It also helps to heal wounds and scar tissues naturally as it strengthens blood vessels; and in the process also helps your dogs systems protect against hemorrhaging.
However, its primary function is producing collagen.

Collagen is a type of protein that assists in supporting several body tissues. It helps the skin, bones, tendons, and muscles. It also helps to protect internal organs and aids both forms of your pet’s immune systems.

Vitamin E:

This vitamin is also referred to as the miracle vitamin for dogs as it assists vitamin A from breaking down and combining with foreign substances that may cause autoimmunity in your pet. It aids both the innate and the adaptive systems in protecting against attacks on the cardiovascular functions in your dog as well as protecting against aging and cancer.

Zinc:

This trace mineral is present in almost every tissue of your dogs body and is absolutely essential as a natural treatment for dogs immune systems as it builds blood circulation, as well as the brain and nervous system functions. It also helps in the synthesis of both protein and nucleic acid.

Nucleic acid is what makes the memory of the adaptive system work. It allows organisms to transfer genetic information form one generation to the next. Without this natural treatment, your dog’s second line of defense will not function properly.

Copper;

This mineral is found in every tissue of your dog’s body. Copper is essential for the forming of both hemoglobin and red blood cells, as well as assisting several enzymes that break down as well as build up body tissue in your pet. It also surrounds nerve fibers and works in harmony with Vitamin C to form elastin in your pet’s muscle fibers.

Echinacea extract:

This herb is a natural supplement that helps to purifying your dog’s blood. In doing so, it stimulates the immune system to help fight both viral and bacterial infections. It acts as an interferon which is produced naturally by your dog. Interferon is a group of glycol-proteins manufactured by different cells and react to different attacks. It is an essential herb in building the adaptive immune system.

Summery:

Your dog is not born into the world with a tough immune system as it must develop as they grow from a puppy. Once developed, it is an amazing set of different functions that can protect your dog against almost any attack.
It will grow faster and stronger if you help your pet with these natural treatments. All systems can break down and weaken, but by naturally assisting them, your dog will live a much healthier and longer life.

I am an avid lover of pets and my wife and I have had several pets throughout our years. We are especially fond of dogs, and we have a 12 year old Dalmatian (our 3rd) and a “mutt” that we rescued when someone threw him away to die in a vacant field.

He found us, nearly starved to death, and weighed about 2 pounds.

After severe bouts of mange and severe dehydration, and over 1,000.00 in veterinarian bills, we saved the little guys life, and he is one of the best, if not the best, dogs we have ever had and today is a muscular, fit, and firm 70 pound best friend.

After finishing my MBA, which at middle age was not easy, I decided to keep the research work ethics that I acquired, and devote about two hours each night in understanding the health benefits of supplementation for both humans and pets and how they might strengthen our, as well as our pets, immune system in a pre-emptive approach to health rather than a reactionary approach.

Both of my daughters are avid cat lovers, and asked me to help them with health concerns and challenges with their cats.

I am not a veterinarian nor claim to be, just a lover of pets that loves to research and pass on some knowledge that might be helpful, or at least stimulating to the thought process.

Several of the articles that I have written can be found on my website;

Liquid Vitamins & Minerals for Humans & Pets
http://www.liquid-vitamins-minerals-humans-pets.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Will

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For several years it was not treated seriously, but it is now identified as potentially causing allergies, bladder infections, and several other potentially serious conditions.

Yeasts that affect your pet are single cell organisms that are found on the surface of every living thing including your dog. There are two basic types of yeast infections that will attack your pet if not treated properly, Candida albicans which is yeast found in their digestive track and Malassezia, which is the yeast that attacks their skin and ears.

When your dogs immune system is fully functional it is able to control and destroy these organisms; however if it is weak in any fashion, this organism than becomes a voracious feeder that will grow and multiply in astonishing numbers and attack your dogs systems.

Types of Yeast Infections:

The Malassezia form of yeast infections causes a very severe itching. For several years it was thought to be a skin allergy and only recently burst on the scene as being a yeast infection.

If this form of infection is in the ears, it is thought to be a secondary pathogen, meaning it is not the actual agent that causes the infection or disease; however, it is now recognized as the primary agent in the skin.

It was also believed to be caused by allergies, but has now been identified as the cause of several types of skin allergies, a complete reversal. This type of the infection affects more than just the skin; as it can also attack the ears, anal sacs, the vagina and the rectum of your dog. It can and does attack dogs of any age, breed, or sex but is very uncommon in cats.

Large breed’s dogs such as German Shepherds and Shetland Sheepdogs are very susceptible, as well as West Highland Terriers. However, Chihuahuas and Poodles are also at a much higher risk.

This form of yeast infection is generally caused by hereditary infectious diseases that weaken the system. There is a cell in your dog’s body called the T lymphocyte cell that protects against bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that have already infected a cell and are growing inside of the cell.

However, when your dogs system is weak, these cells no longer protect your pet.

The second type of yeast organism, Candida albicans, lives in your dog’s digestive tract and survives by consuming sugars and fats in your pets system. It will usually pose no threat at all to your dog and lives in a balance within your pet. It is kept in balance by a substance called Lactobacillus bacteria found in the digestive tract that produces lactic acid.

But when that balance becomes uneven, this fungus than rapidly multiplies as well, and will travel to several part of your pet’s body through the bloodstream bypassing this acid. Once released, it is also able to multiply very rapidly.

Symptoms:

The first symptoms you will notice usually start to surface in the summer when the humidity is very high, and your dog’s skin begins to itch. Naturally, your dog will scratch this itching which will than start sores to surface. The symptoms could be either localized, or generalized, meaning that they cover a large portion of your pet’s body.

If it is localized, it will generally affect your dog’s ears, muzzle, toes, or their anal areas. If it attacks the toes you will see your pet constantly licking their feet. In the anal area they will try to scratch the best they can; and if on the muzzle, which is easier to reach, they may scratch so hard if develops sores, blackening skin, as well as hair loss.

If it is generalized, your pet will start to actually stink as the yeast is spreading and causing the hair coat to become greasy and oily. If severe, you will see both skin lesions and sores. Symptoms of the stomach yeast infection will center initially on the bladder, if severe it attacks the liver.

Treatments:

There are several ways to treat yeast infections in dogs, but there is growing evidence that yeast infections may be caused by grain based foods and a lack of certain minerals.

The conventional treatments will be based off what is believed to be the underlying cause such as bacterial infections or seborrhea. Medicated shampoos will be the most common treatments. Localized treatments of small areas will be treated by anti-bacterial cream. Antifungal shampoos will be used in very severe cases.

Home remedy treatments for yeast infections will include apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, and plain yogurt. Vinegar affects some dogs adversely, but yogurt appears to be extremely effective in the digestive form of infections.

However, as in most all types of treatments, the best method will be in the preventive stages with your dog.

There are two minerals, zinc and copper that will be a tremendous help in preventing this from occurring.

Zinc is required by your dog in the production of nucleic acids which are the building blocks of the body as they assist both RNA and DNA. They also assist with the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates which help to keep the stomach form of yeast in check.

But more importantly it binds protein and fat together which is exactly what this single cell organism waits to attack when the cells become weak and do not bind together. It also plays a huge role in your dog’s body in normalizing swelling and heat, the other growth area of yeast.

Copper is perhaps nature’s finest anti-fungal agent and in several tests have proven that a deficiency of copper causes yeast infections. Zinc is also known to deplete copper in the body, and as a result copper and zinc should always be taken together.

Summery:

Yeast infections in dogs are very common and can be both irritating as well as very dangerous to your pet. The proper preventive nutrients can help to stop it from ever occurring and can save your pet a lot of unnecessary pain.

I am an avid lover of pets and my wife and I have had several pets throughout our years. We are especially fond of dogs, and we have a 12 year old Dalmatian (our 3rd) and a “mutt” that we rescued when someone threw him away to die in a vacant field.

He found us, nearly starved to death, and weighed about 2 pounds.

After severe bouts of mange and severe dehydration, and over 1,000.00 in veterinarian bills, we saved the little guys life, and he is one of the best, if not the best, dogs we have ever had and today is a muscular, fit, and firm 70 pound best friend.

After finishing my MBA, which at middle age was not easy, I decided to keep the research work ethics that I acquired, and devote about two hours each night in understanding the health benefits of supplementation for both humans and pets and how they might strengthen our, as well as our pets, immune system in a pre-emptive approach to health rather than a reactionary approach.

Both of my daughters are avid cat lovers, and asked me to help them with health concerns and challenges with their cats.

I am not a veterinarian nor claim to be, just a lover of pets that loves to research and pass on some knowledge that might be helpful, or at least stimulating to the thought process.

Several of the articles that I have written can be found on my website;

Liquid Vitamins & Minerals for Humans & Pets
http://www.liquid-vitamins-minerals-humans-pets.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Will

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Is Exercise A Good Idea For Dogs With Diabetes?

Yes, it is, but you do need to be careful. Too much exercise can cause your pet’s blood sugar levels to drop to dangerously low levels. It’s always a good idea to keep a little Karo syrup with you so you can rub it on your pet’s gums if he starts showing signs of hypoglycemia.

It’s essential to be establish a consistent routine for exercise. You’ll need to commit to exercising him every day at about the same time, for about the same amount of time each day. Avoid having him out running around at top speed for a half hour once or twice a week, and then sitting around the rest of the time.

A daily ten-minute walk can help considerably in keeping your pet’s blood glucose regulated. Low-key activities, where your pet doesn’t start panting, are best. Walking or swimming are recommended exercises for a diabetic pet.

Always consult with your vet before starting an exercise program for dogs with diabetes.

What Should I Be Feeding My Diabetic Dog?

You need to understand that most dry dog food contains too many carbohydrates. The problem is that carbohydrates are quickly broken down into glucose, which is dumped into his system all at once. This causes a spike in his glucose levels. A pet with diabetes either isn’t producing enough insulin to regulate these levels, or his body can’t use it. When glucose levels remain high for a long time, it causes damage to just about every organ in your pet’s body.

Learn to read pet food labels. You’ll probably be surprised to learn that even the dry prescription diet your vet recommends contains too many carbohydrates for dogs with diabetes.

You’ll want to feed your pet a high-quality grain-free food. Canned food is probably best, although there are dry foods available now that are grain-free. Look for a food that’s high in fiber, and low in fat. Protein and fat are also broken down into glucose, but it’s released into your pet’s body over a much longer period of time, which avoids those nasty spikes in blood sugar levels.

You’ll be feeding your pet two or three small meals a day instead of one big one. This also helps to regulate glucose levels in his blood.

Are Natural Remedies For Dogs Safe For Pets With Canine Diabetes?

Some pet owners are interested in using herbs and dietary supplements to regulate glucose levels naturally. Research has shown that the herbs goat’s rue, fenugreek, and astragalus, along with the mineral chromium, are very effective in controlling blood sugar levels in pets. These remedies are safe to use in combination with the insulin prescribed by your vet.

Always consult with your vet before making any treatment changes. Most vets are very open to the use of natural remedies, and will be willing to work with you and your companion. It’s important that your vet monitors your pet to be sure he doesn’t develop hypoglycemia. It may be necessary to lower the insulin dose when using natural remedies for dogs.

Do yourself and your diabetic dog a favor and try a natural pet remedy today. Life may become less challenging for both of you.

Darlene Norris has combined her experience working at a vet clinic with her long-time interest in natural healing to bring you her new website, Natural Pet Diabetes Control. Learn how you can use natural remedies for dogs to help your diabetic dog by visiting http://NaturalPetDiabetesControl.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darlene_L._Norris

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All yearly shots up to date…no health issues ever.

QUESTION:

Can I give Ibuprofen to a 70lb dog. She is having swelling and muscle spasms
in her neck area and can’t lift her head.

ANSWER:

Dear,

Using Ibuprofen for your dog may have some unpleasant effects that you must know in advance. The dose for dogs is 5 mg/kg body weight. Prolonged use at this dosage may cause gastric ulcers and perforations, GI hemorrhage and renal damage.

Having this information you can use ibuprofen at that dosage, but if only your vet approved it after he diagnosed inflammation in muscles and joints of the neck.

Truly

Damjan

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That is why dogs have that loyal behavior. But the down side of the situation occurs when your pooch has already developed a strange dependency upon you and has what they call dog anxiety whenever it misses your presence. You can never be with someone else for all the time including your pooch. So how do dogs develop anxiety? To answer this question place yourself in your pet’s shoes. What would make you feel uneasy, fretful, and sad? There are a lot of various answers but generally the explanations could be when the owner is away, your master has already another apple for his or her eye like a new person or a new pet, you are not feeling well for some reasons that you can’t explain, your owner is hitting you or in the most morbid scene your master passed away.

Dog anxiety has following symptoms nervousness, restlessness, uneasy and confused feelings. It is sometimes very difficult to tell whether dog anxiety is experienced by your pup because the most effective way of knowing if your pet has this is when you are away. If your pooch depends entirely up to you it will have a hard time dealing with a negative feeling. If you would notice the reaction of a pooch locked up in a room for quite some time. It will bark, scratch, and whine continuously. It will also pee and poo inappropriately like it does not have control over it.

That is how a dog expresses anxiety feeling along with chewing your favorite shoes and laying over your clothes. Your pet misses you terribly that is why it needs to smell your scent in the things closely associated with you. You as the owner have the responsibility of fighting dog anxiety. You need to teach and guide your pooch. But even before your pup has acquired this feeling you can guide it to be independent to deal for its own even when you are away. Don’t try bringing your pup with you all the time. Allow it to play with other pets or other members of the family so that it will not depend entirely up to you.

However if your pooch has already dog anxiety, you have to make adjustments and teach it gradually on how to deal with its own. Do not attempt the direct approach of leaving your pet alone for a long time. Your canine might think you are already abandoning it. Never let this happen because things might get worse which is called anxiety disorder. Remember that it is not a sign of an uncaring dog owner when you do not involve your with your activities often. Rather it is the other way around.

The author of this article, Alex De La Cruz, is a Dog Expert who has been successful for many years. Because most people think that Arthritis is a humans-only disease Alex now informs dog owners with his http://dog_arthritis.doggybooks.info Ebook on how to discover this disease and let their dogs live as pain-free as possible.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_De_La_Cruz

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