Just like us, our dogs can have problems with allergies.  This is especially true with certain purebred dogs.  Allergies can range from skin rashes, to bee stings, to pollen.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when it comes to food.
Scratching, rashes and hair loss are often a sign your dog has a food allergy (check for fleas first).  Your veterinarian may suggest an allergy test.  If you notice your dog itching, and you don’t have fleas, check the ingredients list on the back of your food.   You may want to eliminate corn meal first, followed by animal by-products.  Lots of dogs improve when they switch to a food that does not contain these ingredients.
Check the protein source.  Some dogs don’t do well on beef or lamb, but maybe fine on chicken or fish. 
Simplify the ingredients.  There are two terms that confuse people–holistic and all natural.  Holistic dog foods are products that contain a broad and diverse group of ingredients.  For example, instead of one type of meat, there may be three protein sources.  There may be more variety of vegetables such as beets or carrots.  If your dog does not have allergies, these foods are great, because they expose your pet to a broad source of minerals and vitimins.  However, if you think your dog has a food allergy, avoid holistic food.  Instead look for food that has one protein source, uses rice or oatmeal as a binding agent, and contains essential minerals. 

All natural means the food ingredients are not artificially made.  This should not be confused with organic, which means no chemicals were used.  For more information on pet food you can visit either  www.aafco.com, which is like the FDA, except for pet food, or the Food and Drug Administration website.

I always recommend good veterinary care for all your pets needs.  Next week we’ll talk about other types of allergies and possible solutions.

The “Bad News”—many people purchase animals without considering the long term requirements of proper pet care, the “Good News”—this creates an opportunity for you to purchase a purebred dog at a fraction of the cost. Breed specific rescue organization, which are privately funded, have grown in recent years. There are many types and varieties of purebred dogs available for adoption. There are several advantages to adopting a purebred dog; costs, developed personalities, free expert advice on the breed, reduced medical costs, and a free turn in policy (If for any reason the adoption does not work, the animal may be returned to the shelter). The disadvantages are that with some breeds you may need to travel long distance to meet and adopt your new pet, you may be subject to a rigorous background or criminal check, some of the animals turned into rescue sites have been abused or neglected and require patience and training, and you may not be able to obtain they type of purebred or age desired. Most likely though, you will be sadly amazed to see how many excellent purebred pets are available for adoption.

The cost of purebred dog adoption varies dependent on the breed and age. Shar-Pei and Golden Retrievers typically cost about $250 to adopt but if the animal is over 8 years of age the cost may be as little as $150. This is quit a bargain considering most often these dogs originally sold for $250-$500, have had $300-$500 worth of medical care including shots and testing, and adult pets are already spayed or neutered. Other financial benefits may include free breed specific information and training tips, and an optional free membership into the breed rescue organization, or a free subscription to the organizations newsletter.

If you are thinking about adopting a specific breed the first step is to determine if the breed you are drawn to matches your lifestyle. Do some research on line or at the library to make sure the needs of the new pet will be compatible with your lifestyle. Once you’ve determined which breed will be well suited to your home and lifestyle search on-line for a rescue site in your area. For example, let’s say you want to adopt a poodle and you live in Houston, TX. In your web browser, type “Poodle Rescue Organizations in Houston, Texas”. You can also search by state. Most organizations have clear information on their website about the adoption process, policies, breed tendencies, and costs. Some have pictures of animals available for adoption.

When you decide on a specific possible pet, ask specific questions about its history and personality. The personality of an animal is more important than it’s past. Many animals with horrific pasts make excellent pets, provided you are willing to be patient, establish and maintain routines for the animal, and provide training if needed. Remember animals are sentient beings with emotions and pain receptors. Please consider the long term care of the pet, the breed specific needs, and whether the needs of the animal will negatively affect your lifestyle, before you adopt or purchase an animal. In the long run it is better for you and the animal to wait for the right match.

Many people like to take their animals with them as they travel, and traveling with your dog can be a lot of fun. However, there are dangers to consider including loosing your pet, dehydration, nausea, and the pet ruining the trip due to its anxious behavior. Before you plan a trip with your pet make sure: the pet will have a safe place to stay once you reach your destination, you’ll be able to keep some sense of routine with your pet, and that the place you are visiting, whether it’s a hotel, friend or relative welcomes your pet. Don’t assume your friends love your pooch as much as you do. Also, even if you’ve stayed at the same hotel countless times, confirm each time you travel that they still accept pets. Finally, if you’re staying with friends or relatives, make sure they have no pets or that their pet is very friendly with all animals in their home. Many friendly dogs and cats become very aggressive when another animal is placed in their home. There is nothing worse than being on the road with your companion animal—only to find out you need to board your pet at an unfamiliar kennel, or worse yet, ending you vacation to accommodate your pet’s needs.

Provided that all the above conditions are met, there are some things you can do to insure the comfort and safety of your animal(s). Prior to your trip, make car rides a pleasant experience. If you’re traveling with an animal that does well on a leash, such as a dog, take short trips with your dog and make them fun and joyful. Plan your short trips at times when your pet may be a little hungry. A full stomach and a nervous dog may create a messy, stinky car. Put your dog on a leash and coax them into the car. Give the dog a treat for getting in the car, ride a few blocks then come home, give the dog another treat at the end of the ride or maybe play with him or her once your home. In no time you’ll find your dog loves the car, and you’ll want to increase the length of your short trips.

If your dog is very frightened and difficult to put in the car, give them a full meal, a little pet rescue remedy then pick them up and sit with them in the car. Do this once or twice a day for several days. Do not start your car, or ride around the block until you pet hops in and out of the car easily. Once your pet is comfortable getting in and out of the car, begin taking short pleasure trips.

As you pack for your trip, pack pet food, water, toy (s), bed and a crate. (Bring a crate even if you have no intention of using it). As much as possible, keep food and routines consistent with those used at home. Anytime you change pet food, your dog may experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea or allergic reactions. Water from home encourages your dog to drink—avoiding dehydration. Dogs are highly sensitive to smells and may not want to drink tap water if it has a different chemical content and smell. A crate is good to have with you in the event your car breaks down or the home your visiting has an aggressive animal and didn’t let you know, or if your dog is used to sleeping in a crate/bed at night. Also, pack your most recent pet record or health certificate, and make sure your pet’s collar has your name and phone number on it.

The day of your trip make sure the dog’s collar is snug-but not too tight. Even if your dog is trained off-leash, make sure your dog is leashed or inside at all times during your trip. Before you open a car door at the rest stop or restaurant, make sure your pet is leashed and you have hold of the leash. If you roll down your windows the opening should be smaller than the size of your pets head. There’s nothing worse than losing your pet when traveling. Stop every 1&1/2 to 2 hours and take a short walk with your dog at the rest areas. Offer your dog small amounts of food throughout the day and provide water at every stop. If it’s hot outside and you stop to eat or take a break, park under shade and crack the windows about 1-2 inches. This allows your car to cross ventilate. If it’s very hot, do not leave your pet in the car unattended for more than 3 minutes. Car interiors are dangerous to pets in the summer heat. If it’s 90 degrees outside, your car can quickly exceed 110 degrees. If it’s winter and very cold, make sure the dog is parked in the sun and that they have bedding or a coat to stay warm. Never force your pet to eat or drink on the day you are traveling.

Each Thursday I discuss a dog related topic. The “Bad News”—many people purchase animals without considering the long term requirements of proper pet care, the “Good News”—this creates an opportunity for you to purchase a purebred dog at a fraction of the cost. Breed specific rescue organization, which are privately funded, have grown in recent years. There are many types and varieties of purebred dogs available for adoption. There are several advantages to adopting a purebred dog; costs, developed personalities, free expert advice on the breed, reduced medical costs, and a free turn in policy (If for any reason the adoption does not work, the animal may be returned to the shelter). The disadvantages are that with some breeds you may need to travel long distance to meet and adopt your new pet, you may be subject to a rigorous background or criminal check, some of the animals turned into rescue sites have been abused or neglected and require patience and training, and you may not be able to obtain they type of purebred or age desired. Most likely though, you will be sadly amazed to see how many excellent purebred pets are available for adoption.

The cost of purebred dog adoption varies dependent on the breed and age. Shar-Pei and Golden Retrievers typically cost about $250 to adopt but if the animal is over 8 years of age the cost may be as little as $150. This is quit a bargain considering most often these dogs originally sold for $250-$500, have had $300-$500 worth of medical care including shots and testing, and adult pets are already spayed or neutered. Other financial benefits may include free breed specific information and training tips, and an optional free membership into the breed rescue organization, or a free subscription to the organizations newsletter.

If you are thinking about adopting a specific breed the first step is to determine if the breed you are drawn to matches your lifestyle. Do some research on line or at the library to make sure the needs of the new pet will be compatible with your lifestyle. Once you’ve determined which breed will be well suited to your home and lifestyle search on-line for a rescue site in your area. For example, let’s say you want to adopt a poodle and you live in Houston, TX. In your web browser, type “Poodle Rescue Organizations in Houston, Texas”. You can also search by state. Most organizations have clear information on their website about the adoption process, policies, breed tendencies, and costs. Some have pictures of animals available for adoption.

When you decide on a specific possible pet, ask specific questions about its history and personality. The personality of an animal is more important than it’s past. Many animals with horrific pasts make excellent pets, provided you are willing to be patient, establish and maintain routines for the animal, and provide training if needed. Remember animals are sentient beings with emotions and pain receptors. Please consider the long term care of the pet, the breed specific needs, and whether the needs of the animal will negatively affect your lifestyle, before you adopt or purchase an animal. In the long run it is better for you and the animal to wait for the right match

Many people like to take their animals with them as they travel, and traveling with your dog can be a lot of fun. However, there are potential dangers to consider including loosing your pet, dehydration, nausea, and the pet ruining the trip due to its anxious behavior. Before you plan a trip with your pet make sure: your dog will have a safe place to stay once you reach your destination, you’ll be able to keep some sense of routine with your dog, and that the place you are visiting, whether it’s a hotel, friend or relative welcomes your pet. Don’t assume your friends love your pooch as much as you do. Also, even if you’ve stayed at the same hotel countless times, confirm each time you travel that they still accept pets. Finally, if you’re staying with friends or relatives, make sure they have no pets or that their pet is very friendly with all animals in their home. Many friendly dogs and cats become very aggressive when another animal is placed in their home. There is nothing worse than being on the road with your companion animal—only to find out you need to board your dog at an unfamiliar kennel, or worse yet, ending your vacation to accommodate your pet’s needs.

Provided that all the above conditions are met, there are some things you can do to insure the comfort and safety of your animal(s). Prior to your trip, make car rides a pleasant experience. If you’re traveling with an animal that does well on a leash, such as a dog, take short trips with your dog and make them fun and joyful. Plan your short trips at times when your pet may be a little hungry. A full stomach and a nervous dog may create a messy, stinky car. Put your dog on a leash and coax them into the car. Give the dog a treat for getting in the car, ride a few blocks then come home, give the dog another treat at the end of the ride or maybe play with him or her once your home. In no time you’ll find your dog loves the car, and you’ll want to increase the length of your short trips.

If your dog is very frightened and difficult to put in the car, give them a full meal, a little pet rescue remedy then pick them up and sit with them in the car. Do this once or twice a day for several days. Do not start your car, or ride around the block until you pet hops in and out of the car easily. Once your pet is comfortable getting in and out of the car, begin taking short pleasure trips.

As you pack for your trip, pack pet food, water, toy (s), bed and a crate. (Bring a crate even if you have no intention of using it). As much as possible, keep food and routines consistent with those used at home. Anytime you change pet food, your dog may experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea or allergic reactions. Water from home encourages your dog to drink—avoiding dehydration. Dogs are highly sensitive to smells and may not want to drink tap water if it has a different chemical content and smell. A crate is good to have with you in the event your car breaks down or the home your visiting has an aggressive animal and didn’t let you know, or if your dog is used to sleeping in a crate/bed at night. Also, pack your most recent pet record or health certificate, and make sure your pet’s collar has your name and phone number on it.

The day of your trip make sure the dog’s collar is snug-but not too tight. Even if your dog is trained off-leash, make sure your dog is leashed or inside at all times during your trip. Before you open a car door at the rest stop or restaurant, make sure your pet is leashed and you have hold of the leash. If you roll down your windows the opening should be smaller than the size of your pets head. There’s nothing worse than losing your pet when traveling. Stop every 1&1/2 to 2 hours and take a short walk with your dog at the rest areas. Offer your dog small amounts of food throughout the day and provide water at every stop. If it’s hot outside and you stop to eat or take a break, park under shade and crack the windows about 1-2 inches. This allows your car to cross ventilate. If it’s very hot, do not leave your pet in the car unattended for more than 3 minutes. Car interiors are dangerous to pets in the summer heat. If it’s 90 degrees outside, your car can quickly exceed 110 degrees. If it’s winter and very cold, make sure the dog is parked in the sun and that they have bedding or a coat to stay warm. Never force your pet to eat or drink on the day you are traveling.

Once you arrive at your destination, set up a pet feeding and sleeping area and reestablish as many routines from home as possible. And lastly, have a great time with your animal companion.

The “Bad News”—many people purchase animals without considering the long term requirements of proper pet care, the “Good News”—this creates an opportunity for you to purchase a purebred dog at a fraction of the cost. Breed specific rescue organization, which are privately funded, have grown in recent years. There are many types and varieties of purebred dogs available for adoption. There are several advantages to adopting a purebred dog; costs, developed personalities, free expert advice on the breed, reduced medical costs, and a free turn in policy (If for any reason the adoption does not work, the animal may be returned to the shelter). The disadvantages are that with some breeds you may need to travel long distance to meet and adopt your new pet, you may be subject to a rigorous background or criminal check, some of the animals turned into rescue sites have been abused or neglected and require patience and training, and you may not be able to obtain they type of purebred or age desired. Most likely though, you will be sadly amazed to see how many excellent purebred pets are available for adoption.

The cost of purebred dog adoption varies dependent on the breed and age. Shar-Pei and Golden Retrievers typically cost about $250 to adopt but if the animal is over 8 years of age the cost may be as little as $150. This is quit a bargain considering most often these dogs originally sold for $250-$500, have had $300-$500 worth of medical care including shots and testing, and adult pets are already spayed or neutered. Other financial benefits may include free breed specific information and training tips, and an optional free membership into the breed rescue organization, or a free subscription to the organizations newsletter.

If you are thinking about adopting a specific breed the first step is to determine if the breed you are drawn to matches your lifestyle. Do some research on line or at the library to make sure the needs of the new pet will be compatible with your lifestyle. Once you’ve determined which breed will be well suited to your home and lifestyle search on-line for a rescue site in your area. For example, let’s say you want to adopt a poodle and you live in Houston, TX. In your web browser, type “Poodle Rescue Organizations in Houston, Texas”. You can also search by state. Most organizations have clear information on their website about the adoption process, policies, breed tendencies, and costs. Some have pictures of animals available for adoption.

When you decide on a specific possible pet, ask specific questions about its history and personality. The personality of an animal is more important than it’s past. Many animals with horrific pasts make excellent pets, provided you are willing to be patient, establish and maintain routines for the animal, and provide training if needed. Remember animals are sentient beings with emotions and pain receptors. Please consider the long term care of the pet, the breed specific needs, and whether the needs of the animal will negatively affect your lifestyle, before you adopt or purchase an animal. In the long run it is better for you and the animal to wait for the right match.