Resolutions

I asked our two pugs, MeiMei and Miko last night what this years resolution would be and after much thought they told me their resolutions are:

1. Help out more around the house

2. Don't destroy so many of our beds and toys 3. Eat slowerOk - maybe those are my resolutions for them...

Their resolutions were actually:

1. More naps in the sunshine2. More cuddles

3. More walkies (except when it's really cold)4. More food5. More kisses7. and less crazy outfits that mama makes us wearHappy New year to you all!

What is a Collapsing trachea?

This article is from Peteducation.com and is important to me because we have two pugs and they commonly can have this ailment and we also have friends with a pug that currently has been disgnosed with a collapsed trachea and thought it was important to pass along the information and mention how important it is to have the proper collar, or more importantly harness, for your small dogs, especially if they pull.  Obesity is also a major cause, which is important for pug owners like ourselves as well. 

 

Collapsing trachea (or collapsed trachea) is a common condition that causes coughing in small and toy breeds of dogs.

Let us start with an explanation of how the dog breathes, The respiratory system is basically comprised of the opening in the nose, the sinuses, the larynx (air passage containing the vocal cords), the trachea (wind pipe), the bronchial tubes, and the lungs. It has a dual purpose in the dog: to remove carbon dioxide from the body replacing it with oxygen, and to act as a cooling system. Since dogs do not have sweat glands they cannot perspire to lower their body temperature. By breathing faster, warm air from the body is exchanged with cooler air from outside.

The act of breathing is accomplished by the actions of the rib muscle and the movement of a large internal muscle called the diaphragm. The diaphragm separates the chest from the abdomen. Movement toward the abdomen causes the pet to breathe in fresh air. As the pet inhales, fresh air moves through the nose and larynx to the trachea. This rigid tube is supported by tough rings of cartilage. It carries the air to the bronchi, which in turn supply the lungs.

What is a collapsed trachea?

The trachea is supported by tough rings made of cartilage. Occasionally, the trachea will lose its rigidity and collapse while the dog is breathing. For unknown reasons, the cartilage rings weaken and the trachea no longer has proper support. The collapsing trachea syndrome is most often seen in toy breeds, especially Toy Poodles over the age of five.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of this syndrome depend on the severity of the deterioration. Usually, the dog will have difficulty breathing, especially during exercise. The deeper the pet tries to inhale, the more the trachea collapses, further restricting air flow (similar to sucking on a straw too hard). The pet appears to tire easily as it becomes short of breath. Dogs with a collapsing trachea will generally cough as if trying to clear the airways, and occasionally this cough will sound like a goose honk. In very severe cases, the tongue and gums will appear blue as breathing becomes restricted.

What are the risks?

Most dogs suffering with the collapsed trachea syndrome live normal - but restricted - lives. Activity is generally limited because the ability to breathe deeply when exercising is hindered. Left untreated, the restricted air flow can put undue stress on the heart and lungs as they try to compensate for the inability to breathe properly. Obese dogs are at greater risk than others.

What is the management?

Examination with the fingers and radiographs (x-rays) will generally confirm the diagnosis. Depending upon the severity of the condition, medications will help. Veterinarians usually prescribe drugs to help dilate the airways. The coughing is controlled by cough suppressants such as Torbutrol. If the pet is obese, we suggest a stricter diet. Finally, activity should be restricted and not encouraged. Dogs with collapsing tracheas should wear harnesses instead of collars in order to take any pressure off of the trachea. With the help of medication and modification of lifestyle, the collapsing trachea can be controlled but seldom cured. In severe cases, surgery to help open the airways may be beneficial, but most cases are managed medically not surgically.

Prehistoric Toys

Can't ever find a plush toy that your large breed dog could carry around with him? These awesome prehistoric plush toys have a soft squeaker and is tough and durable! Maybe a little too big for the small guys...

From Mindful Leadership

This is a forward of a post from our favorite trainers at Mindful Leadership.  Silvia Jay has been a wonderful influence in our ownership of our pugs and I have the utmost respect for her.   Feel free to follow her blog to get some great insight, thoughts and opinions about our wonderful companions.

 

We wish you a Merry Christmas, or a Merry whatever you are celebrating this time of year.

For 2010 we wish you and yours Peace, Health and Prosperity.

There is snow on the ground where I live. The winter wonderland look was the last thing that needed to happen before Christmas; the cookies are in the house, tree all up and decorated, and the dogs' wish list to Santi Paws went out weeks ago. I think I mentioned before that Davie and Will are brilliant, the little darlings, but they aren't able to scribble on paper what they'd like to find in their stocking, hung with care, so I did it for them.

 

According to a survey conducted by Petfinder, 63 percent of dog owners give Christmas presents to their pets. We belong to the majority. Including the canine family members into the festivities feels good all around; for humans because giving is better than receiving, for dogs because they love to get stuff. Period.

 

Gift giving is only one aspect of the Holiday Season. There is last minute shopping and cleaning, big meals to prepare, functions to go to and company that's coming; family gatherings sometimes with people one doesn't really want to gather with.

All that can be exciting, but also very stressful for people – and dogs. By now, most everyone knows to safeguard the box of chocolates from the dog, and to refrain from noshing him fatty food scraps.

 

Helping him deal with Holiday stressors is just as important. The young, inexperienced or timid pooch could spook when a big, red Santa inflates in front of the house, or when there is a snowman with a black hat and broom in a yard where there was none before. Suddenly, his familiar turf that always looked the same, changed - and that is scary, and his natural response is to bark, lunge or bolt. The smart owner calmly increases the distance until the pooch relaxes, and then lets him observe the new things so it can be checked off as non-threatening. Offering a piece of his favorite loot, or engaging him into a familiar and fun game, further contributes to the cagey canine feeling cool again in his 'hood, despite all the changes.

 

Every dog, even the friendliest people lover, can be overwhelmed when too many hands are patting, especially children's. And because he can't pour himself another glass of wine to calm the nerves, he might growl – or shy away, bark, chase, pant or pace.

Apropos wine, even you being a little looped with too much cheer can weird a sensitive dog out, and if you call him to come, he might not obey.

 

A dog often doesn't have the option to avoid or escape, physically or mentally, all that commotion. The onus is on the owner to recognize when the pooch has had enough partying, and to provide a safe, quiet place where he can chill undisturbed.

That, and keeping the dog's routine as much as possible, for example feeding the same food at the same time, and going for walks at the usual time, further ensures that giving presents on Christmas Morn' isn't the only happy event during the festive season.

I wonder what the girls gonna find under the tree this year? A Nina Ottosson interactive toy they can both play with? A ball for Davie to add to the dozen she already has? A couple of brownies from the Three Dog Bakery for Will? Extra meaty marrow bones and "accidentally" dropped pieces of low-fat roasted turkey breast, or that jazzy white collar with black sheep prints for Davie – wait, that would be a present more for me; but an extra long walk where there are a few slow squirrels, or maybe a….

Holiday Hazards for Your Pets

'Tis the season to be jolly, and your pets want to celebrate as much as you do. They can't wait for the turkeys, hams, desserts, decorations, parties, and, best of all, the Christmas tree. All of these holiday items and events can cause problems or even be dangerous for your pet.

Think about your pets' needs before company arrives. Is your cat terrified by a house full of people? Does your dog tend to jump on guests? Do your pets snap or bite if handled too much? It may be less stressful for them and your guests to put animals in a quiet room by themselves during gatherings.

If you plan to have houseguests, assess your pet's behavior and take corrective action before you have problems. For example, you may have elderly or frail guests, or those that do not care for dogs. Train your dog not to jump on guests and to behave calmly. Train your pets not to beg, and to sit quietly before they get any meals.

If your pets are social and enjoy gatherings, you still must be careful. Guests may place food or drinks within reach of your pets, feeding them treats without your knowledge. Dogs especially love alcohol and chocolate. Both can be dangerous and bring on coma or death. If your dog staggers, loses coordination, or is sleeping so soundly during or after a party that you cannot wake him, get him to a veterinary hospital immediately.

Holiday turkeys and hams are very tempting to dogs and cats. They can eat large quantities, cooked or raw, in a short time. Often this results in an upset belly, vomiting and diarrhea for a day or two. In some cases, dogs, especially, get severe pancreatitis from eating foods to which they are not accustomed.

Remember, anything used to prepare or serve the holiday dinner is inviting to your pets. This includes skewers and strings used to close the turkey, and carving knives. Attempts to swallow these items bring predictably bad results. Bones should not be fed to pets, especially ham bones. These are exactly the right size to get lodged in intestines. If this happens, it is a surgical emergency.

Cats like to chew on plants. Be careful with poinsettias. Although not severely toxic, poinsettias can give your cats an upset belly with some vomiting. To help keep your cats happy and away from household plants, provide them with wheatgrass to chew on.

The Christmas Tree. Pets adore these as much as you do. Cats like to climb on them until they fall over. Dogs prefer to body slam them. Pets and youngsters can get cut feet from stepping on broken ornaments. Dogs and cats sometimes like to mark trees with urine. Dogs like to eat ornaments and candy canes, including the wrappers. Many pets like to chew on light cords, which can shock or kill them. Dogs and cats eat tinsel, which can lodge in their intestines and cause a blockage.

If you have pets, anchor your Christmas tree to the wall in two spots for stability. Avoid all edible ornaments, and avoid putting breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree. Tape light cords against the tree or wall, so they aren't lying on the floor, inviting your pets to chew on them. Avoid tinsel altogether if you have young, playful pets. They see it as a moving, irresistible toy.

Make sure your pets get plenty of attention and exercise during the holiday season. This makes them less likely to get into mischief. Check with your veterinarian for more suggestions.

Reprinted with permission from University of Minnesota Veterinary Outreach Program.

Dangers of Rawhide

Rawhide bones and chews are made from the inner layer of animal hide. Generally, manufacturers use cow hide, but horse, bull or other hides may also be used. Rawhide is sold in almost every pet store and is irresistible to most dogs. However, before you indulge your dog with another rawhide bone or chew, you should know the risks associated with rawhide.

 

Learn more...

 

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