articles by Paw Printz
Wintertime can offer dog owners many challenges – bitterly cold and sopping wet days aren’t always that appealing to be out there with your dog. But with a bit of creativity, you can do a lot of fun exercises indoors, giving them the exercise they need to stay mentally and physically healthy. Here’s some simple and fun indoor games that …
Mites are external parasites that can cause severe itching and discomfort. There are four distinct species of mites that infest dogs. Mange is a skin infection caused by tiny parasites of two types of mites – Demodectic and Sarcoptic – the later being highly contagious. The four different species of mites you will find on a dogs skin are: • …
Hint: Replant your yard with more urine-resistant grasses like perennial ryegrasses and fescues. Lawn burn is a common problem which relates to those annoying brown patches left behind in the places where a dog urinates on the grass. The burning is a result of high nitrogen levels present in the dogs urine. A little nitrogen on a lawn is a …
A bored dog can be an unhappy, destructive force. We all know that dogs are social creatures who want to be with you every minute of the day. If they’re left alone for too long and become bored, the result can be destructive behaviour such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing. High energy dogs (such as sporting dogs) are especially …
Vitiligo is an uncommon skin condition that causes skin to lose its natural pigment – a process called depigmentation. In addition to effecting the skin, vitiligo can also cause hair to turn white. Although your dog or cat may start to look a little funny with patches of white skin and fur, there is no need to worry. Vitiligo is …
Many dogs are prone to bladder problems, especially those suffering from diabetes or older females. One of the most common bladder issues is the formation of crystals. Crystals are minerals that bond together and, if they get large enough, can block the urine passage. Why PH Matters When the pH level in your dog’s urine becomes compromised, bladder problems frequently …
Laryngeal paralysis is a condition in which the nerves and muscles that control the movements of one, or both, arytenoid cartilages of the larynx cease to function. Instead of opening during the action of drawing breath and closing during swallowing, the arytenoids remain stationary in a somewhat neutral position. The larynx is located in the back of the throat – …
What is Meningitis? Meningitis in dogs is an inflammatory disease that attacks the canine central nervous system. The term meningitis refers to an inflammation of the meninges, which are the three membranes that line and protect the brain and spinal cord. What Causes Meningitis? Inflammation occurs due to an infection caused by microorganisms – these can be bacterial, viral, fungal or protozoal. …
The term heart ‘murmur’ refers to a disturbed blood flow within the heart itself, which creates an extra sound or noise. It’s this sound that the vet hears when listening with a stethoscope against your pet’s chest. The heart is designed like a one-way street. Blood is only meant to flow in one direction on its journey through the organ. …
