Author: Evelyn Townsend

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Pet Breed

A Short Guide to South African Mastiff Dog Breed

Dog Breed

Getting a pet is not a simple endeavor, especially since you can choose a wide array of breeds. Everything depends on your preferences, family requirements, the size of your backyard, whether you live in an apartment or household, and many more.

The worst thing you can do is have a large dog that requires plenty of space and exercise in a small condominium. Therefore, you should choose based on your needs, stop thinking just about yourself, and learn whether a dog will be happy in your surroundings and lifestyle.

The world around us spins fast, especially if you live in a city, so you should be ready to add a new family member. Having a dog is not just about appearance and protection; it is about dedication and love you can give.

Numerous studies have shown that every single breed can be aggressive if you avoid dedicating yourself. Simultaneously, if you use aggressiveness towards a dog, frustration may arise that will affect a situation and lead to severe consequences.

Instead of getting a dog just for show-off, you should get a breed you can care about, or you should avoid taking it altogether. The same thing works for the South African Mastiff or Elite Boerboels, one of the world’s most powerful and largest breeds.

Some reports have stated that it can exert approximately four-hundred and fifty pounds of pressure when it bites, which is something you should know before you make up your mind.

That does not mean they are aggressive, primarily if you conduct proper training and socialization while being a pack leader that will set boundaries from an early age.

Of course, similarly to any other breed, this particular one can become problematic, which is why recommendations state that only experienced owners should have them.

South African Mastiffs are good with children, simple to train, intelligent, and can protect their families, which is an essential thing to remember.

What is Boerboel or South African Mastiff?

Boerboel or South African Mastiff was a guardian dog used for other activities such as hunting wild animals. One of the initially bred dog breeds is the Boerbull, to defend farmers’ households and lands.

It is challenging to determine its descendants, but some historical perspectives state that German, Dutch, or Huguenot settlers brought guardian dogs to South Africa. At the same time, they interbred these dogs, and after a while, we got the Boerboel dog.

Remember that AKC (the American Kennel Club) recently added this particular breed in 2015. Even though people used them as protectors and guardians, they are also great family pets.

Most people think of them as low-energy dogs that are extremely lazy in household conditions, which is true.

By clicking here, you will be able to learn more about this particular topic.

Things to Know About Boerboels

Dog Breed

Since they have been guardians from the very beginning, you should know that they could easily connect with their family and other people. Remember that they are highly loyal, which means that they will protect their homes and families.

One of the most exciting things about them is that they can do it with confidence and calm since they come with a stable and almost laid-back temperament that is one reason for general popularity.

However, it is vital to understand that they do not tolerate being left alone in the household, which is why you should train them properly to prevent separation anxiety.

We have mentioned above about their bite or grip power, which means that anxiety can lead to the severe devastation of your home.

Therefore, it is vital to avoid keeping it alone in the household and asking someone you know or a dog sitter to reach your home while you are away.

The best thing about them is the intelligence, which allows them to learn numerous things you wish to teach them. Of course, you need to start socializing them early and challenge them mentally and physically.

By ensuring they undergo new experiences, places, and people, you should prevent potential aggression in the future.

We recommend you to visit this link: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7f0zoa to understand more about this particular breed. 

Remember that boredom will lead them to occupy themselves in ways you may not prefer, which is why you should stimulate them properly to avoid potential issues.

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pet care

How To Choose The Proper Bed To Help Your French Bulldog Sleep

Bulldog Sleep

Having a dog at home is like taking care of a child or a family member because you need to provide for his essential needs. You need to feed him the right food, have a walk in the neighborhood or park, groom him regularly, and make sure to give him a comfortable bed. Some breeds should be kept in a cage because of their aggressive behavior and are not sociable.

However, a lot of dogs like cuddling or playing so they get along with the other pets and human beings as well. The fun they bring to the members of the family and individuals, who live alone, is incomparable, especially when they have built a connection. One of the favorite breeds that you can find even with celebrities is the French bulldogs. Like other pet dogs, we have to provide them their needs such as food, vitamins, and a nice bed too. You can check sites such as www.bulldogpros.com to know your pet’s bedding options.

You might be asking why a French bulldog when you can adopt a Shi Tzu, Dalmatian, Chihuahua, or Poodle. Well, we all have preferences and it does not matter what type it is as long as you are willing to take care of this pet and provide his needs. Now, if this new member of the house will stay indoors, then you need to get him space so that he can sleep comfortably.

French Bulldog

This is a small breed of dogs with huge bat ears which is their trademark and they can grow up to 13 inches tall. This Frenchie resembles a miniature bulldog with a muscular coat, a big square-shaped head, a heavily wrinkled face, and the nose is quite shorty. They are usually playful but alert and can easily adapt to different environments that make them irresistible cuties.

They may have a charm that you had been looking for because they are a great companion. You won’t hear too much barking from them since they are a quiet type but that won’t stop them from being alert and good watchdogs. Now, if the owner doesn’t like staying outdoors for a walk, then you don’t have to worry because this Frenchie won’t require ample time to do exercises outdoors – this site will tell you more about caring for this pet.

So, who will not like having such a charming French pet at home when you know that it won’t harm your kids and won’t be a burden to your daily routines? I guess all you need to do now is to prepare his bed and welcome him to his new home. In this way, he will feel that he is accepted and would be receiving lots of love.

Importance

You should know that your Frenchie must also have enough time to sleep to stay healthy and this will only happen if you will provide him the right one. Keep in mind that your bulldog may get sick without sufficient rest because they are always actively running or playing around so make sure he can maintain his energy level. By the way, the bedstead will give you less time to clean the floor or mat because of the fur so it is still better to have a bed of his own.

Do not forget that animals also need to maintain the heat or temperature of their body so it would be great to give them an insulated one to keep them warm at night or during the winter. You will surely buy him a suit to protect that from cold weather but it is still best to let them lie on the bed and not on the floor so they won’t get ill. They may also experience joint paints or arthritis, especially when they get older, and using a comfortable space will help them relieve joint and muscle issues.

Your pet may also experience stress or separation anxiety when the owner leaves them and that would be hard for them to understand that’s why they always wait. You should know that having a place to sleep will help him decrease the level of stress or anxiety because they feel the comfort and safety on their bed. Your French bulldog may feel like he is abandoned and as owners, you should minimize those negative emotions.

Things to Consider

It has to be durable and easy to wash because you need to maintain the cleanliness of his bed to keep him away from germs or bacteria. Make sure that the material used is soft and polycotton, when he sheds a lot, chew-proof since some of them likes chewing, and made of memory foam or bead for the thick pad when he is quite heavy.

You don’t need to be choosy when it comes to the design but you will have a lot of options and this will depend on your personal preferences, anyway. The one you will choose will also depend on your budget and a more complicated design is surely pricier. You may focus more on his sleeping habit and position because this piece should be able to accommodate them no matter how they sleep.

Do not forget to know the weight and height of your pet and your French bulldog may weigh about 16 pounds, then about 11 inches tall. This information is necessary for finding the right size of the bed. Now, for older pets or those with health conditions make sure to get them the appropriate type because they need more care and so that they can sleep or rest well.

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pet care

Yorkies terrier – Full Profile, History, and Care

Yorkies terrier

These naughty little ones can live in urban flats or in a chalet on the outskirts of the city. They are affectionate with the family and even jealous if other dogs or cats steal their daily portion of cuddling.

But don’t worry, as inside the home they don’t look for difficulties. Of course, outside … that is something else! In this guide, discover more details about the intense temperament and characteristics of the glamorous Yorkies terrier.

The Yorkies terrier breed and its humble origin:

Although the Yorkies terrier is one of the most flirtatious breeds today, its appearance in the 19th century in Britain was not overly glamorous. And it was used to hunt rats! Being an inexpensive dog, the poorest families used the Yorkies terrier breed to kill these dirty rodents. Later the bourgeois class adopted him and the Yorkies terrier became the “posh” dog we know today.

The small size of the Yorkshire terrier belies its true personality, which is energetic, lively and dominant. Yorkshire terriers are affectionate, but they also demand a lot of attention; this breed is a good choice for someone who wants to spoil a dog.

Yorkshire terriers make excellent watchdogs. But they can show a temper with other children if they don’t treat them with respect or kindness. Some can be aggressive towards other small animals, although there are Yorkshire terriers that live quite peacefully with other dogs and even cats.

Yorkshire terriers can be barkers, although they can be trained not to bark excessively. Some may be stubborn when it comes to toilet training.

This is the temperament of a Yorkies terrier

Affectionate with their own, the specimens of this breed will soon win the sympathy of the members of the household. If you ignore them, they will show their anger through destructive behavior. They are not very tolerant of childish antics and due to their small size they can be easily hurt.

They also do not like to be isolated in the yard or to be home alone for a long time. For these dogs it is essential to be able to interact with human beings and feel that we care about them. However, you should not be too overprotective, because in that case they could become fearful or neurotic.

What care does a Yorkies terrier need?

The specimens of this breed are adapted to any type of home, although their exercise needs should not be neglected. Inside the home they are quite active, as they like to play and check that everything is in order.

If you have a garden, they will be happy to share a play session with you several times a week. Renew them from time to time so that they do not eat any component that could choke.

Ah! And you must be very careful during outings. Although they are small, Yorkies Terriers are believed to be the size of a Great Dane. A good idea is to always wear them with a long strap that allows you to control their movements without taking away their freedom.

On the other hand, the Yorkies terrier breed has a long life expectancy and if you take care of it as it deserves, you will have a great friend for at least 15 years. It is a fragile dog so be careful not to hurt it! It can suffer spinal problems or dislocation of the patella.

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Pet Breed

Which Dog Breed Is Right for You?

Dog Breed

Are you ready to add to the family? A four-legged friend is often a welcome selection, bringing a bit of extra love and joy. Just like families are not all alike, not all breeds are the same. Temperaments and interests vary, so it’s essential to research animals before picking one out. Look into pure breeds to know a bit of what you’re getting. A bit of leg work at the beginning may make the transition easier for everyone. Here are four questions to consider.

Do You Have Kids?

Some dogs are gentler than others and deal better with tiny hands and toddler tantrums. When little ones are present, dogs demand patience and awareness. Select breeds that are easy to train and show a great deal of affection. Boxers, beagles, terriers and spaniels are just a few that may work for the home.

Do You Have Medical Conditions?

While it may seem like allergies would knock out dogs altogether, that isn’t always the truth. Many people are allergic to dog hair, so a significant consideration here would be shedding. Read up on dogs that don’t shed a great deal or require grooming often. The following is a list of dogs that are considered easier for allergy sufferers:

  • Chinese Crested
  • Hairless Terriers
  • Giant Schnauzer
  • Maltese

 Keep in mind that hair may still fall. Invest in a good vacuum as well.

Do You Like to Workout?

Dogs should match their owners’ personalities. Someone very active tends to enjoy a furry friend who likes to keep busy. Enjoy walks together and playtime at the park. Champion breed german shepherd puppies are one example of a playful pup who loves to stay occupied. If you’re not interested in going for long walks, consider a basset hound or poodle.

Spend weeks, if not months researching dog breed backgrounds. This investment may pay off for you and your new little one by guiding you to find the right breed.

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Pet Health

Common Orthopedic Problems in Dogs

Dogs Orthopedic

Orthopedic problems are not only a human thing; pets, including dogs, also experience musculoskeletal related issues as well. Orthopedic issues affecting bones, joints, and muscles occur mostly due to injury or genetic predisposition to the condition. While most of these issues can be managed using medications, surgery is sometimes necessary to sufficiently relieve symptoms and improve the pet’s quality of life.

That said, only your vet can determine the best course of action to make your pet better. To discover more, here are some of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs.

Canine cruciate ligament tears

Simple activities such as jumping and running can cause cruciate ligament injury in many dog breeders.

The cruciate ligaments are fibrous bands connecting the femur to the tibia. The two-form a cross inside the joint that holds the bones together.

In dogs, the cranial cruciate ligament can break, and when it does, the knee becomes unstable, painful, and susceptible to arthritis. The vet accesses the level of damage that is then treated surgically or medially depending on instability and the dog’s weight.

Surgery for cranial cruciate ligament tear Boulder may include implantation surgery or changing the joint’s anatomy to stabilize the joint. Since joints quickly develop arthritis, getting immediate medical care is vital for your dog’s well-being.

Hip dysplasia

This is a genetic condition affecting your dog, especially the large breeds of dogs. Symptoms may include:

  • Lameness in the hind end
  • Difficulty running or jumping
  • Decreased movement and range motion
  • A swaying posture
  • A wider space between the dog’s legs
  • One of the legs may appear shorter than the other

Treatment for hip dysplasia usually involves the administration of anti-inflammatory medications or surgery to correct the condition.

Patellar luxation

The patella, also known as the kneecap, is made up of tendons and muscles located near the femur. This part shouldn’t move around in a healthy dog. In patellar luxation, the part into which the kneecap rids is absent or shallow in some dogs leading to knee joint dislocation.

Signs that your dog has a dislocated knee joint may include:

  • Limping
  • Unwillingness to walk
  • Bitting or licking the knee
  • Noticeable pain
  • Lifting the leg regularly

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition in adult dogs. This is a painful condition leading to gradual deterioration of the joint. Improper joint alignment or injury can cause inflammation leaving the joint in a terrible state. Arthritis gets worse with time, and it’s crucial to get immediate medical attention as soon as you notice the symptoms.

Symptoms may include:

  • Obvious pain
  • Limping
  • Difficulty climbing stairs, getting up and laying down

Elbow dysplasia    

Many orthopedic conditions cause elbow dysplasia, which is an abnormal condition of the elbow. Dogs with this condition can show the following symptoms:

  • Obvious pain and discomfort
  • Holding the leg up or out
  • Lameness

As you can see, there are several types of orthopedic problems in dogs. Arranging an appointment with your vet once you notice any abnormal sign is the only way to diagnose and treat orthopedic issues on time.

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Pets News

5 Things You Need Before Bringing Home A New Dog

Home A New Dog

Are you bringing home a new dog?  Congratulations!  You are adding joy, companionship, and a whole bunch of snuggles to your family. But having a dog also brings new responsibilities. Whether you are adopting a senior pet or a brand-new puppy, these are the things you must have before bringing home your new pet.

Dog Walking Service

Taking your pup out for a walk or for playtime at the park is one of the greatest joys of having a pet. But there will inevitably be times when you can’t handle all the walks and potty breaks on your own. Whether you can’t get home for a lunchtime walk during your workday, or you need to be away from town for the weekend, having a dog walker can be a lifesaver. Before you bring your new dog home to stay, meet with a Denver dog walker to find out about how to schedule services when you need them.

Veterinarian

Veterinarians, like physicians, provide routine health care and preventative services in addition to meeting emergency pet health needs. Your new pet will need a veterinarian visit within the first week or so of coming home. Puppies will need vaccinations and will soon need with a spay or neuter procedure. Senior pets often have health needs related to aging which you will want to understand as soon as possible. Before you bring your new pet home, select a veterinarian you feel comfortable with. You may even wish to schedule a meeting with a potential veterinarian without your pet, so that you can ask questions, see the facility, meet the staff and get tips for helping your new pet adjust and settle into their new home.

Food and treats

Understanding pet nutrition is a bit complex and it is necessary to do some research before heading to pet store to stock up. Selecting the right food depends on the breed of your dog, their age. Be sure to read labels to find a food with the correct high-quality ingredients and talk with your veterinarian for recommendations. But, don’t overinvest right away. Your dog will have their own preferences and some food might not sit well with them. Purchase a small quantity of food to start and watch how your dog tolerates it before buying more. Also, be sure to purchase bowls and determine where your dog will eat. Having an established spot for feeding, and sticking to a feeding schedule is an important part of training.

A Safe Place to Sleep

Your new pet may end up napping on the couch, the kitchen rug, or in your lap. But, they also need a safe place of their own to retreat to, both for sleep and a sense of security. Crate training your pet not only gives them a place to sleep, it can also aide in potty training and preventing your puppy from chewing on household items. Depending on your needs and the size of your dog, select a crate that will help them feel safe and secure while sleeping and relaxing.

Patience and love

Bringing home, a new pet calls for a healthy dose of patience and understanding. It will take time for your pet to adjust to you and their new surroundings. It may take days, weeks and even a few months before their true personality begins to show. Plus, there will inevitably be training setbacks, including chewed belongings and potty accidents. But, with patience and commitment, you and your pet will develop a bond that will last for years.

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Pets News

3 Common Horse Breeds

Horse Breeds

Just like other domestic animals, such as cats, dogs, and cows, there are many different breeds of horses, over 350 in all. There may be less variation between different breeds of horses than dogs, but they can vary greatly in size, temperament, and ability. Once you know what to look for, identifying different breeds of horses may become easier.

1. Thoroughbred

Standing approximately 17 hands high and weighing up to 1,300 pounds, the thoroughbred is a large, powerful horse. Thoroughbreds are considered a “hot-blooded” breed, meaning that they are spirited in temperament, as well as fast and agile. A thoroughbred is likely to feel right at home among horse jump roll tops as this breed is frequently used for racing and other equestrian sports.

2. Arabian

Arabian tend to be smaller and lighter than thoroughbreds, weighing only 800 to 1,000 pounds and standing between 14 and 16 hands high. Dating back to at least 3,000 B.C., the Arabian is one of the oldest horse breeds in the world.

Arabian horses are recognizable by their wedge-shaped heads and lithe, compact bodies. Because they were bred for a desert environment, they typically have dark skin around their eyes that affords them some protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

3. Appaloosa

Appaloosas are easily recognizable by their mottled skin, striped hooves, and colorful coat patterns that often feature dark spots against lighter fur on the hindquarters. The appaloosa has a little more weight on the Arabian but is approximately the same height. Appaloosas are believed to be a distant descendent of the Arabian, bred by the Nez Perce tribe for battle and hunting.

As with dogs, not all horses have an identifiable pedigree. Those that do not are called grade horses, meaning that their heritage includes more than one breed, and they were probably not bred intentionally. Grade horses nevertheless tend to be hardier and more versatile, their mixed heritage giving them a genetic advantage.

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pet care

Doggy Dreamland: Where Should Your Puppy Sleep the First Night?

Puppy Sleep

The first night with a new puppy is challenging for both you and the puppy. This might be your puppy’s first night without his or her mother so you want to make sure you keep it feeling safe and comfortable.

One of the biggest parts of that is working out where should your puppy sleep and in this article, you’ll discover how to figure out where the best place is for your puppy.

Read on!

Use a Puppy Crate

When you prepare for your new puppy, a training crate can be an invaluable tool. It creates a small, safe space for your puppy.

It creates a dedicated sleeping area for your puppy, keeps them out of trouble as they haven’t been potty trained yet, and allows you to show them that night time is for settling down and sleeping.

They might not take to it at first, and a lot of puppies will whine for the first few nights, but you want to start setting habits early. That’s why it’s important to use a crate from the first night.

Things to Add to the Puppy Crate

A crate on its own won’t be enough to help the puppy feel comfortable. Add a blanket to give your puppy some warmth and make the crate a softer setting.

Also, add a plush toy. This will give your puppy something to sleep against, and create a feeling of sleeping next to his or her mother.

You can also add a divider to the crate. This gives you control over the size of the space available for your puppy. It means you can create a warm, snug space on the first night and increase the space in the future as your puppy grows.

Where Should You Place Your Puppy’s Crate

Place the crate somewhere free of drafts and where you can keep an eye on your puppy overnight. As it is a new setting, it’s recommended you keep the crate in the bedroom to get the puppy used to the crate.

You might not get much sleep for the first night, or maybe the first few nights. But when your puppy is used to the crate and settles down at night, you can start to move the crate further away from your bed and eventually into a different room.

Have a Plan B for Where Should Your Puppy Sleep

One of the most important things to remember with a puppy is that the first 24 hours are new for you and also new for them. You won’t know ahead of time how they’re going to behave or react to the environment they’re coming in to.

When deciding where should your puppy sleep at night, preparing ahead of time is great. However, having a back-up plan or some way to adapt is going to help if your puppy doesn’t react well.

Don’t let the puppy sleep in your bed, however. It’s tempting, but it can create bad habits that will be harder to train your puppy out of later on.

Be Prepared

A new setting won’t be easy for you or your puppy so mentally prepare yourself for some rough nights and a lack of sleep.

When working out where should your puppy sleep, keep in mind the puppy’s wellbeing, how you’re going to check in on them, and their long-term training.

For more advice on caring for your pet, read the rest of our blog.

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Pets News

Furry Fun: 7 Helpful Hints for Traveling With a Pet

Pet

Traveling with a pet can be a wonderful experience. Many pets are content lounging in a crate for hours and adapt well to new surroundings. There’s nothing like hitting the open road with your best friend or moving abroad with your favorite companion by your side.

Traveling with a pet can be quite daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. There’s a lot of planning and preparation involved, even if you’re just taking a road trip.

Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to make sure you have everything ready for traveling with a cat or dog.

These seven pet travel tips cover everything you need to know about how to travel with a pet before you hit the gas or jet set with your little furry friends.

  1. Check You Have the Correct Documentation

Even if you’re just traveling with a pet across state lines, make sure you have the correct documentation and prioritize your pet’s safety. Some areas require out-of-state pets to have a veterinary inspection certificate or proof of vaccines.

On a basic level, make sure your pet’s collar has a tag with your phone number (which will be connected while you are traveling) and home address. If you are staying in a new place for a long time, consider getting a temporary tag with that address too.

Make sure your pet insurance covers your cat or dog wherever you are traveling to. Have digital copies of your pet’s medical history on your phone in case the worst happens and there is an emergency.

If you’re traveling across country borders or via airplane, you will need further documentation. The European Union, for example, has its own rules and you may require a Pet Passport to travel to come countries.

  1. Make a Kit Bag for Traveling With a Pet

Traveling with a cat or dog requires preparation and a lot of supplies. You can’t avoid it. If you travel with your pet often (or full time), you should prepare a kit bag that you can leave in your vehicle so you’re always ready to go.

Pet supplies you might consider packing in your pet’s travel bag:

  • Portable pet water bottle
  • Lots of food that won’t spoil
  • Treats
  • Toys without squeakers
  • Poop bags or cat litter
  • Leash
  • Blanket or towel
  • Medication

  1. Plan Lots of Breaks for Your Cat or Dog

Breaks while traveling with a dog or cat are important for two reasons. Firstly, if your pet isn’t used to being in a crate or traveling for long periods of time then they might find it distressing. Just as we like to stretch our legs after sitting for long periods, pets need the same.

The second reason you should plan lots of breaks is more obvious: so they can go to the bathroom!

Even if you just pull into gas stations more frequently than you normally would or go for a short walk around the airport instead of sitting, it all helps your pet feel comfortable.

  1. Use a Suitable Carrier for Your Pet

It’s very important to keep your pet as safe and relaxed as possible while traveling. Crates or carriers should be large enough for your animal to be able to sit, stand, and lie down and they should also be well-ventilated.

You never want your pets to get overheated. And of course, never leave them alone!

For road trips, always keep pets in the backseat and cats in carriers. If you travel with your dogs frequently, consider investing in a trunk protector like this one from Kleinmetall. You’ll keep your car free from mud, hair, and scratches while giving your dog space to stretch out.

You could also invest in a seatbelt leash or car seat if you have an active pet who doesn’t like lying down in the car.

  1. Consider Vaccinations and Microchipping

All animals are vaccinated with a standard round of vaccinations when they are puppies or kittens and then get boosters every three years. Are you up to date with your pet’s vaccinations? If not, make sure you are before you travel.

If you’re traveling with a pet, especially overseas, definitely book an appointment with your vet before you leave. They will be able to best advise you on what your dog or cat needs depending on the country you are traveling to.

If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, that’s something to consider. If your furry friend is in an unfamiliar place they’re much more likely to get lost. Microchipping is a simple procedure and it could save a lot of distress in the future.

  1. Choose Pet-Friendly Hotels, Airlines, and Vans

You’re probably already aware that some hotels and motels don’t allow pets, but some airlines have better reputations for transporting pets than others. And all of them have different rules and restrictions.

The airline fees for traveling with pets both in the hold and by your side vary wildly. They also have different rules for your pet’s weight, where you’re traveling to, and also require different approved travel containers.

So before you book a flight, do your research on which airline has the best policies.

And if you’ve bought a camper or RV and plan on hitting the road with your pet on a long-term basis, make sure it’s a pet-friendly one with lots of space.

  1. Keep Your Pet’s Routine Consistent

Traveling with a pet can already cause them anxiety (though many animals love adventure) so try to disrupt their routine as little as possible.

If you’re on vacation, it’s natural that you’d want to sleep in and stay up late. If your dog is used to being walked first thing in the morning, sticking to that routine will help them feel relaxed.

If your pets have a favorite bowl or toy they’re particularly attached to, try and bring it so they feel more at home. The more your pet likes traveling, the easier it will be for you to keep exploring new places.

Don’t Let Your Pets Miss Out on the Fun

If you follow these seven tips for traveling with a pet, you’ll know exactly how to travel with a cat or dog. Your trip should be much less stressful and you’ll be well prepared.

Check out our posts on pet insurance and pet health to keep your pet safe and well at home or away.

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pet care

Complete Blood Count Testing In Dogs

Dogs

A blood test or diagnostic test helps us to learn details about the wellbeing of your dog, which can only be learned by extracting and examining a blood sample. This includes a CBC (complete blood count) and a blood chemistry that analyses the chemical components in the blood.

CBC for dogs is used to classify and measure white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets in a specified volume of blood. This involves a study of the form and condition of cells for health and functionality. This information helps you understand more about your dog’s immune system (white blood cells) and its ability to bear oxygen (red blood cells).

Often the CBC may help to assess the underlying cause of anemia or infection. Drugs that have an effect on the bone marrow alter the CBC. Certain types of cancers, particularly leukemia, can be evident from a blood test. Blood parasites and certain microorganisms are identified by careful examination of the blood cells during the CBC. In certain cases, the results of the CBC might lead the veterinarian to prescribe further diagnostic tests.

How is Complete Blood Count (CBC) performed?

For a complete blood count, the veterinarian may take a blood sample from the cephalic vein by inserting a needle into the forelimb, starting distally (near the paw) and working proximally (away from the paw). The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for further examination.

What does Complete Blood Count (CBC) measures?

The CBC indicates veterinarian the status of your dog’s anemia, inflammation, hydration, blood clotting, and immune system response. CBC is important for dogs with symptoms such as diarrhea, fatigue, pale gums fever, vomiting, or lack of appetite.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about red blood cells? 

RBC is a representation of the number of cells circulating. If it is low, it means that your canine friend has anemia and, depending on the situation, further diagnoses may be required to find out why. If this number is too high, it generally means that your dog is dehydrated, although there are uncommon diseases that can cause a high red cell count in the absence of dehydration.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about white blood cells?

In the case of white blood cells or leukocytes, the differential count determines what types of leukocytes are present, which gives your veterinarian an idea of the origins of any inflammation. In the differential count, we get two measurements for each type of cell – a percentage and an absolute count. Percentages indicate whether the ratio of different types of cells is normal. Absolute counts reflect the degree to which each cell count is either too high or too low. White blood cells are usually elevated when infection is present and can decrease in some disease processes or when certain medications are provided, such as chemotherapeutic agents.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about platelets?

Platelet counts are often carried out in combination with a complete blood cell count (CBC). Platelet counts of less than 20,000 to 30,000 per microliter of blood are likely to cause spontaneous hemorrhage. Additional diagnostic tests may be used to examine the underlying causes of the problem. These can include additional veterinary tests, such as: blood tests, x-rays, ultrasound, or bone marrow samples, depending on the type of the suspected underlying process.

Does CBC cause side effects in dogs?

CBCs typically do not cause any side effects. If side effects occur, they are mostly mild and occur at the needle site. Side effects that could occur include:

  • bruising
  • swelling
  • infection
  • discomfort
  • bleeding