The term kennel cough is known by many other names. Whether referred to as tracheobronchitis, Bordetellosis or Bordetella, it is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease that is easily passed from one dog to another. It is both various bacterias and viruses that can cause tracheobronchitis and its trademark symptom is a dry, hacking cough that may or may not be accompanied by a clear nasal discharge. Severe cases of the disease can result in fever, sluggishness, a loss of appetite, pneumonia and occasionally death.

A vast majority of pet owners vaccinate their dog for kennel cough thinking their canine companion will be safe from catching the disease once and for all; however, a vaccinated dog is still perfectly capable of contracting tracheobronchitis. Once infected, the most often prescribed treatment is antibiotics or cough suppressants. In more severe cases, steroids, bronchodilators or aerosol therapy may become necessary. The biggest problem is that even after symptoms are gone, a dog can still be a carrier of the disease and spread it to other pets making tracheobronchitis quite prolific. Luckily, there is a much more efficient, natural and economical way to stop this illness right in its tracks. [Read more...]

These days, what should count as signs and symptoms of sick dog disorders are tragically considered normal. Occasional bouts of diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, constant scratching and other maladies are referred to as the standard issues of being a dog. However, when you consider the fact that dogs can actually have the same symptoms when swallowing concentrated poisons, it would hardly seem a standard issue; especially since few owners let their dog ingest poisons outright. That is, until you learn about the blend of chemicals, additives, preservatives, residual drug concentrations, molds and funguses that are present in dog foods. [Read more...]

Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms of dog poisoning is a necessity when it comes to responsible dog ownership. From time to time, even the best behaved dog can find its way into something that is dangerous or even deadly. Plus, poison can come in a number of forms. Well meaning pooches have landed themselves in a heap of trouble merely by snatching a chocolate bar from the counter. Others find themselves rushed to the vet after managing to get a hold of rat poison, antifreeze or people medicines. With all our man-made chemicals in the world, a dog simply does not have the ability to understand what he or she may be ingesting. This is why our friends need vigilant owners to look out for them. [Read more...]