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Pet Health Articles

Dogs + Preventive Care & Wellness

  • Skunks spray volatile compounds from their anal sacs if they feel threatened by a potential predator such as a dog. If sprayed in the face your dog may need veterinary care, as corneal damage can occur if sprayed in the eyes, and vomiting, diarrhea, or anemia can result if sprayed in the mouth.

  • Still the strong diggers with good hearing and good sense they were originally bred to be, Skye Terriers think for themselves and do their jobs without instruction. Crackerjack vermin hunters, personal guardians, and devoted companions, Skyes take life seriously and won't give up or give in when they think it's important.

  • The Smooth Fox Terrier loves to play, and he's always up for a good game of fetch (although he might not bring the ball back), tug-of-war (he doesn't like to lose), or just lots of running around, hiking, exploring, sniffing, and barking.

  • Dogs, like people, need to practice their social skills. Spending time with other dogs will help your dog hone his ability to read his friends’ body language and to communicate effectively. These skills decrease the development of dog related fear and aggression. Play groups in an organized or more relaxed setting are beneficial for both your growing puppy and adult dog. Canine and human socialization occur simultaneously and dog owners enjoy meeting new friends, too. Watching dogs play is a great way to reduce your stress level. Socializing should be pleasant for you and your dog, so find a comfortable group and setting and have fun!

  • The Wheaten's terrier alertness is tempered by the steady temperament of a dog who is used to helping out around the farm. These dogs love their people and their people's friends, and like to demonstrate their love by jumping up on all concerned.

  • There are lots of ways to find adoptable pets, and large or small, local or national, online resources and shelters have the same goal: match available pets with the most suitable homes. Social media has helped find homes for countless dogs and cats. Well-developed websites that are updated frequently and actively used by rescue groups and humane societies make shopping for a pet online a fruitful experience. Shelters are another great option if you want to see many pets at one time.

  • Spanish Water Dogs are very active and have strong herding and guarding instincts – they are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate, making them excellent guardians. They tend to be Velcro dogs – while they accept the whole family, they tend to attach to one person in particular.

  • Spaying is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed completely in order to sterilize a female dog. There are several pros and cons to spaying currently under scientific scrutiny; however, the overall consensus at this time is that spaying will increase the lifespan of a dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. A rest period of 5-10 days is needed for recovery after surgery.

  • Canine grooming is important. Dogs should be kept clean, be brushed often, and get clipped as needed. If you want to do something more unique, like applying nail polish or hair dye, choosing a canine-approved product that is appropriately applied while the dog is monitored is highly recommended.

  • The Spinone Italiano is a superb companion for the hunter or outdoorsman. These dogs follow directions, stay within close range, and willingly plow through heavy brush and dive into ponds. When not hunting, a Spinone Italiano will join you on a hike, let a toddler snuggle next to her, or play tag with the kids.