Coffee beans, tea and cacao beans produce the substance caffeine. Coffee has gained worldwide acceptance as a favorite adult drink. Apart from the voracious appetite dogs are also indiscriminate eaters thus stomach upset and poisoning are common occurrences. It is common for the pet to ingest the food eaten by the family thus caffeine poisoning is more common in pets of coffee drinkers. Dogs love to beg for food and owners cannot resist the pleading looks of the dog thus coffee and other people foods will be shared with the dog. Dogs also have the habit of raising trash cans and feasting on spoiled food. Dogs that have eaten coffee grounds found in the trash can suffer from caffeine poisoning.

More than 150 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight is already a lethal dose for the dog. Dogs that have consumed caffeine more than this amount would suffer from the signs of caffeine toxicity. Caffeine is generally utilized as a mild stimulant but dogs that have consumed more than the tolerable amount would have increased heart rate because this substance stimulate the nerve cells to produce adrenaline, the hormone that accelerates heart rate. Caffeine toxicity have mood altering effects thus the dog would be excited and would have increased respiratory rate as well. Muscle tremors can be noticed. It is also possible for the dog to have seizures and to bleed heavily. Generalized congestion and an irregularity of heart rate will be noticed in dogs poisoned with caffeine.

Caffeine though have healthful benefits to the dog. Coffee is a diuretic that enhances the production of urine. The dogs muscular strength is enhanced and the nervous system is stimulated by caffeine. General circulation is improved because of accelerated heart rate.

In right amount, caffeine improves the peristalsis motion of the intestines. Cardiac insufficiency in dogs can be resolved with regular coffee ingestion. Caffeine does have healthful benefits to the dog but owners have to make sure that the amount given can be tolerated by the dogs systems.

People love coffee, but do dogs and can dogs can have caffeine? More on this and other food subjects at Sarah’s Dogs. Also you can learn about dog grooming.

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Considered as gourmet food, mushrooms are commonly used as ingredient in Japanese, Korean and Chinese cuisine. Being a low calorie food, raw or cooked mushrooms are favorite of people battling the bulge. Aside from the delicious taste, mushrooms are also favored for its vitamins and essential minerals content. It is rather unfortunate that not all mushrooms are edible and identifying the poisonous ones would be very difficult given the fact that different types of mushrooms almost look the same. Mushrooms are easily available because they grow everywhere but harvesting would be difficult as oftentimes, the poisonous types grow beside the edible ones.

The indiscriminate eating habits and huge appetites as well as the very curious nature are reason why dogs get into dangerous situations. Dog poisoning is a common concern of dog owners. Dogs eat grass and in the process may also stumble upon and eat poisonous mushrooms. A dog that is attracted by the beautifully colored mushroom would be lured to take a bite. These are the possible situations where the dog would ingest poisonous mushrooms.

The effect of toxicity would depend on the kind of mushroom ingested by the dog. Amanita phalloides also known as death caps can cause fatal poisoning. Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common effects of ingesting poisonous mushrooms. The toxins contained by some mushrooms can severely damage the dog’s liver and kidneys. Dogs that have ingested these mushroom species would have yellowing eyes and mucus membranes as these are signs that the liver is already affected. Dogs severely affected by the toxic substance present in mushrooms can go into coma and this situation can lead to the death of the pet.

Urgent treatment is necessary for dogs that have ingested poisonous mushrooms. The toxins the mushroom contains would damage the dog’s vital organs and the damage must be addressed but removing the toxin from the dog’s body must be given priority. Activated charcoal will be given to the dog to prevent the toxin from being absorbed by the body. To induce vomiting, the dogs will be given hydrogen peroxide or syrup of ipecac.

Mushrooms and dogs. Find out more at Sarah’s Dogs. What is more you can read all about dog breeds.

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Dogs are food motivated animals that have very sensitive noses thus any food that the master has will be noticed. A bite of the food will be tossed to the pet because dog owner finds it hard to refuse the pet. Dog owners have to refuse if the pet is begging to have a taste of the nuts. Dog owners have to be aware that nuts are unsafe foods for dogs. Nuts must not be used as treats because of the potential bad effects this food would have on the pet. Almonds, pecans, walnuts, pistachio, macadamia and other kinds of nuts are known to be unsafe foods for dogs.

Dogs that have eaten nuts would commonly suffer from stomach upset. Nuts are hard to digest. The process of digestion should have been made easier if the nuts were chewed. However, dogs have the habit of wolfing the food unchewed. This eating habit makes nuts much difficult to digest. This condition often result to stomach upsets. Furthermore, there is a possibility that the undigested nuts would create an obstruction in the dog’s intestinal tract. A surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the intestinal blockage.

Nuts are human foods with high phosphorous content. Dogs that regularly ingest nuts would not only suffer from stomach upset but may also develop bladder stones. Due to the high level of fats nuts contain, the dog can develop pancreatitis. Fatty food cause the dog’s pancreas to swell thus regular ingestion of nuts can result to a pancreatitis attack

Among all the nuts, macadamia nuts is the most dangerous to dogs. A few kernels of this nut can make a dog suffer from severe stomach upset because of the nut’s high fat content. Just as with other nuts, macadamia is high in fat and phosphorous content dogs that frequently eat this nut can develop gall stones and suffer from pancreatitis. Dogs that ingest macadamia nuts would suffer from temporary paralysis caused by an unknown toxic compound that this nut contains. The dog would develop tremors and have swollen hindquarters because the unknown toxic compound that macadamia nut contains affects the skeletal muscles. This condition would affect the mobility of the dog. Fortunately, this painful condition is not permanent as dogs would recover from the toxicity.

Do you want to know more about if dogs can eat nuts. Come by Sarah’s Dogs and learn about this and dog grooming.

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Not all dog breeds have the same grooming requirements as some are high maintenance breeds while others would need very little grooming. Grooming the pet can be a challenging chore as apart from the time factor not all dogs would take to grooming willingly. Grooming the dog is a tedious task but this necessary chore would be made easier by following a grooming checklist.

Bathing is necessary to keep the dog clean. Pet owners that bathe the dog very often mean well but this can have unwanted effects on the dog. A dog that is bathed too often would have dry skin as the natural moisturizing oils are removed thereby giving rise to various skin concerns. Regular brushing would still be necessary even if the breed is noted for its beautiful coat as this grooming routine will maintain the excellent condition of the skin and the coat. Parasite infestation and developing health concerns can be noticed and resolved at once by brushing the dog’s coat regularly. Twice a week brushing would do for short haired breeds but long haired dogs need about 30 minutes brushing every day.

Ear cleaning is another important task that must be done weekly. Floppy eared dogs and dog breeds that work in water are prone to ear problems thus they would need more frequent ear cleaning. Daily cleaning is as well necessary for the dog’s delicate eyes. Special wipes for the eyes can be used to remove discharge from the dog’s eyes.

Nail trimming and tooth brushing are the less desirable parts of dog grooming as dogs that enjoy coat brushing and even bathing will put up a good fight if the nails are trimmed or if the teeth are brushed. Regular cleaning of teeth is necessary not only to ensure the pet’s fresh breath but also to prevent the development of periodontal diseases. Regular nail trimming will also be necessary. The dog would be more compliant to being groomed if the routines were introduced while the pet is still a puppy.

Grooming is essential in the maintenance of the dog’s health. Through these grooming sessions, the relationship of the owner and the pet is enhanced.

Sarah’s Dogs provides more information on dog grooming as well as a grooming checklist.

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Dogs have survived in the wild without the help of humans. Without humans modern day dogs would find it difficult to exist as their food, health and social requirements are provided by their owners. To make certain that the pet remains healthy a responsible dog owner would provide the pet supplements and vitamins in addition to high quality diet. A vet visit is one of the first outings of a new pet as the dog owner is aware that vaccinations, worming and general check up is necessary to keep the pet healthy.

A dog would need to have a safe environment as these animals especially the puppies would need the care similar to the care needed by a baby. It is the responsibility of dog owners to provide outdoor dogs with adequate shelter. Exercise is very important for dogs thus owners have to provide the pet with regular opportunities to let off steam.

Another responsibility of a dog owner is to make sure that the pet grows into a good canine citizen. This can be done by letting the pet undergo socialization and obedience training. The social skills of the dog will be honed if it is constantly exposed to new things. Obedience training that makes the dog understand and obey commands goes hand in hand with socialization in building the dog’s even temperament.

Dogs need love and attention because they are social animals. Bonding with the pet is a very important task of a dog owner. A few minutes a day to groom or to play with the pet will be ideal bonding moments that will make the dog happy. A dog no doubt will be a wonderful addition to the family but getting one must be carefully considered because dog ownership entails important responsibilities that must be done for the well being of the pet. Potential dog owners have to remember the fact that a dog cannot be discarded once they get fed up.

More information on dog grooming and grooming responsibilities can be found at Sarah’s Dogs.

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This action of dragging the butt on the floor may not be newly learned trick after all. Scooting or dragging the rear end may not be a newly learned trick but an indication that the pet has an impacted anal gland.

Dogs have two small sacs on the left and right side of the anus known as anal glands. Pheromones, the chemical that gives the dog a distinct smell are secreted from the anal glands through the small ducts that opens to the anus. Dogs identify each other by smelling the scent of this chemical that is distinct in every dog. This smelly chemical is normally excreted when the dog defecates. Frightened dogs would voluntarily release their distinct smell by raising the tail and squeezing the anus.

Problems could occur when the anal glands failed to empty normally. An impacted anal gland will cause the dog great discomfort apart from the fact that an abscess can form and rupture and infection can sit in. The condition can also lead to anal gland carcinoma.

Dog owners should make sure to include emptying of the anal gland in the grooming routine of the dog especially if the pet tends to get recurring anal gland impaction. Expressing the pet’s anal glands can be a messy and a smelly task and most dog owners get the services of a vet or a professional groomer to undertake the procedure.

Anal gland expression though can be learned. To express the contents of the anal glands, the owner has to lift the dog’s tail with one hand and position the index finger and the thumb of the other hand on either side of the anus to apply gentle but firm upward pressure until the substance is excreted through the anus. An unpleasant smelling brownish to gray colored substance will be excreted through the anus. Remove the secretion with a damp towel or shampoo the dog’s behind to remove smell of the anal secretion. Enough opportunities to exercise and giving the dog a high fiber diet can prevent the recurrence of anal gland impaction.

At Sarah’s Dogs you can read more about dog grooming and the anal glands

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Unfortunately, while dog owners would take so much pleasure in bathing and brushing the dog’s coat, a lot would baulk at cleaning the dog’s teeth. Dental care is essential to the well being of the pet but this important part of grooming routine is often neglected. Most dogs have adapted to bathing, to nail clipping and even to the tickly ear cleaning. Dogs love the attention they get when the coat is brushed. Brushing the dog’s teeth would be a challenge as these animals not accustomed to having their mouth and teeth touched would struggle with all their might.

Not many dog owners are aware that dental care is vitally important to dogs than to humans as their saliva does not produce the enzyme that prevents food from sticking into the teeth. The absence of this enzyme promotes the buildup of tartar and plaque. Dogs don’t really get cavities but the tartar and plaque that cause bad breath would also cause teeth to fallout. As dogs can’t use dentures like humans do, maintaining dental health would be one of the responsibilities of the dog owner.

Grooming the dog’s teeth at least twice a week will avoid costly vet visits. Periodental disease can lead to serious heart concerns this is why it is very necessary for dog owner to ensure the dental health of the pet. Dog owners are aware of this fact but cleaning the dog’s teeth can be a challenging task that often ends up with the fingers of the owner nipped by the pet.

Dogs though are not only adaptable; these animals can also be trained easily. Dogs are trained to like tooth brushing especially if treats are given as rewards. The trick is to get the dog get used to being touched in the mouth. Dogs have the reputation of being food motivated. The dog will surely be interested to lick the toothbrush with a dab of peanut butter. This will accustom the dog to the feel of the toothbrush on its mouth. The peanut butter can be substituted with flavored doggie toothpaste. The owner can now start gently brushing the dog’s teeth.

Find out more about dog grooming as well as information on dog dental care at Sarah’s Dogs.

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Although tail chasing is noticed in all dog’s, this puzzling and rather amusing behavior is commonly manifested by puppies. Puppies are adorable but a tail-chasing one would certainly be the apple of the eye of the family. A dog that chases its tail while playing is actually harmless and should not alarm dog owners. Running and chasing are natural dog behaviors because these animals are hunters. Tail chasing manifested when the dog is playing is not dangerous but when the behavior becomes excessive so that the life of the pet is endangered, tail chasing becomes a concern that must be promptly addressed. A tail chasing dog would elicit laughter from the family but if this perplexing behavior causes the dog serious injuries, the family would certainly not laugh.

The amusing repetitive turning movement of the dog can be attributed to behavioral or medical reasons. The puzzling behavior of a dog to chase its own tail is believed to be caused by boredom and anxiety. Being social creatures, dogs would crave for attention. Tail chasing can be manifested by a pet wanting to attract the attention of its human family. Whirling around to chase the tail would bring forth laughter from the family. Because of the attention, the dog will play up – continue chasing its tail.

Boredom and anxiety can make a dog chase its tail. Dogs that are cooped inside the house for the better part of the day with no toys and no other dogs to play with will find any kind of activity to while away the time. For lack of something better to do, a dog will chase its tail to combat boredom. Anxiety will make people bite nails or twirl a lock of hair. Anxiety will make a dog chase its tail.

A medical condition can be the reason for the dog’s odd behavior. The dog may be weighed down by discomfort from internal and external parasite infestation or an impacted anal gland. A flea bitten tail will be very itchy. The discomfort can be caused by an impacted anal gland or worms in the dog’s rear end. A dog will chase its own tail because of these conditions.

Sarah’s Dogs provides more information on why dogs chase their own tails as well as why dogs wag their tails.

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Emission of deadly gas from the rear end is called farting or flatulence. Gasses that are released during flatulence is a combination of nitrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Gas is produced in the intestines when bacteria reacts to the process of digesting the ingested food. Another source of flatulence is the gas in the intestines from the blood as well as from the air swallowed by the dog when eating or drinking. Excessive production of flatus is influenced by the type of food ingested, by the amount of air swallowed and the reaction of bacteria to the natural process of digesting food.

Dogs have gained a reputation for being fast eaters. Foods, especially large chunks are gulped down by dogs. The behavior of gulping down food was a carry-over trait from the dog’s ancestors. Due to the scarcity of food, dogs have to gulp down the food – to eat fast to prevent predators and also other members of the pack from stealing the hunted prey. Large amounts of air that gets swallowed with the food will be deposited in the intestines.

Digested food will produce gas when it reaches the large intestines because of the fermentation of the yeast in the gastro intestinal tract. Production of gas is more enhanced in older dogs as the intestines’ muscular tone is weakened as the dog matures. Some types of foods are known to cause flatulence. Beans, cauliflower, dairy products are some of the foods that can make your dog fart more. Low quality dog food enhances the production of gas in the intestines.

Excessive farting can be reduced if the dog is given several meals of smaller ration instead of one big meal. Another remedy to lessen the dogs tendency to fart is to provide the dog with expensive but good quality dog food.

Sarah’s Dogs has more information about why dogs fart and why dogs.pant

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The seizure that the dog has can either be single or repeated. A dog that would convulse only once in a seizing episode is said to be having a single seizure. As the name suggests, a dog suffering from repeated seizure will seize again and again in a single seizing episode. Both the single seizure and the repeated seizure would have serious effects on the dog but repeated seizure can have more debilitating effect as the dog that has not yet regained consciousness would again succumb to another seizure.

Repeated seizures can be status epilepticus or cluster seizure. These two types of repeated seizure would have the dog suffering from one seizure after another. Status epilepticus is a condition that would be more frightening for a dog owner given that the seizure would continue to occur even if the dog has not regained consciousness. In cluster seizures, the dog that was “revived” would again lose consciousness when another seizure occurs. Both these conditions are life threatening thus immediate medical attention will be necessary.

The frequency of seizures can be controlled with medications but there is no first aid for this condition. First aid methods are given to save the pet from pain, to prevent the condition from worsening and of course to save the life of the pet. As these first aid objectives would be ineffective if administered on a seizing dog, the best thing an owner can do is to let the seizure run its course.

The dog owner though can do a lot to make the seizing dog comfortable and to ensure that the dog would not inflect harm on itself. The pet must be moved away from the stairs. Keep the pet away from objects that can fall and cause injuries. Hugging the pet to control its trembling is not advisable. Seizing dogs are somewhat disoriented and the well meaning pet owner can be bitten by the pet instead. Talking softly to the dog would be more helpful. The owner’s voice can help calm the pet.

More about repeated seizures and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

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