Sunday, February 20, 2011

Dog Food Standards

If you continue to feed very inexpensive, corn filled, and by-product dog food, you are going to be continuing a standard of care that is very antiquated. There is no reason for a dog owner to put up with the past standards of what could and should not be sold at dog food, or pet food stores in the past.

New food standards need to be installed, but first, you as a pet owner should be one to start the trend. In the commercial world, if you do not insist on proper nutrition, you are not going to find it. It is important that you as a good dog owner, always vote with your pocket book.

By this, I mean, be sure to buy good nutrition. Be sure to start only a trend with yourself, that you buy only healthy dog food. No corn, no by-products, and no chemicals or preservatives. Do not be fooled by healthy claims until you read the labels. Be a cautious buyer, and let me know what you think. I am happy to help your decision for the right food for your dog.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Pink Eye for Dogs

Yes, little kids are not the only ones that suffer from pink eye or conjuctivitis. It is fairly common in dogs, and usually happens to dogs who have visited a dog play area, park, or other area frequented by other dogs. The dog who suffers from this ailment, usually has an itch, watery eye, redness, and a discharge around the tear duct.

A visit to the vet is in order, so a general diagnosis can be performed, and medicine can be prescribed. The disorder will often get worse before it gets better, so prompt attention is a good idea.

If the redness occurs in only one eye, it could be dry eye, where the tear duct is not producing enough tears. The humidity in the home can be increased, and a gentle salt bath or homeopathic eye solution used. The best ones are ones that are non-toxic and do not provide any chemical interactions.

A great product line, called Halo, makes a good eye rinse for your dog. It will take you through a 2 week treatment easily, and is a great product if your dog suffers from eye discharge.

Do not let brown streaks or itch remain with your dog's day to day life. It is not a normal symptom.