———————

———————

As the snow melts, our dogs are finding little treasures on the ground. These little items can really make your dog sick should they choose to eat them. There are leftovers from a variety places that we don’t even want to know.

To help your dog not pick up these disgusting pieces of garbage, I would like to walk you through how to teach your dog the “Leave it” command so they stay healthy and happy.

Firstly, I would start this training inside without the garbage distraction. Place your dog on leash and toss an item on the floor. Then quickly walk by the item and encourage them to look at you. Tell them “yes” and reward their behavior. If they give the item a quick sniff on the way then tell them Leave it and continue on walking. Once your dog walks right by the item with a quick sniff then you are ready for the real world outside.

Dogs need to sniff things along their walk to mentally tire themselves out as this is like reading a newspaper along their walk. The mental stimulation is good for your dog. However, when you come across something that you don’t want them to sniff/pick up/eat then tell them “Leave it” and keep walking. Try this with a piece of garbage along your walk that won’t hurt them and reward with praise or treat when they listen to you. Then start increasing the distraction to more valuable items which they would normally pick up along your walk. When they give the item a quick sniff and continue with you, please give them lots of praise! Happy Walking!

———————

The following provides an extensive list of foods / plants that dogs should never eat. These items when ingested by a dog can cause minor to major illness, organ failure and even death.

 

Avocado  
The leaves, seeds, fruit, and bark contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Alcoholic Beverages
Any type of alcohol can be poisonous to your dog and aside from intoxication, can cause a coma or even death.

Bones
Employ caution when giving bones to your dog. Some bones can be very dangerous – as they can splinter and cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system. Bones from many types of fish are dangerous for dog just as they are for people. The cooked bones of salmon are not harmful.

Candy containing the sweetener Xylitol
Xylitol can cause liver damage and even death.

Chocolate
Dogs should never have any type of chocolate. Milk chocolate is not as dangerous for dogs as semi-sweet or unsweetened bakers chocolate.  Chocolate poisoning can cause irregular heart rate and rhythm, restlessness, hyperactivity, diarrhea, vomiting, panting, muscle tremors, abdominal pain, bloody urine, increased body temperature, seizures, coma and death.

Coffee
Can result in increased breathing and heart rate, restlessness and affects the central nervous system.

Dairy Products – in large amounts, small amounts are OK for most dogs
If consumed in large amounts may cause diarrhea. Some dogs are lactose intolerant. If your dog is not lactose intolerant, plain yogurt is good for your dog. A little hard cheese or cottage cheese is also good.

Fat – in large amounts, small amounts of good fat are beneficial
Butter, margarine, lard, fat trimmings and excessive amounts of oil. Ingesting any substantial amount of these fats can cause failure of the internal organs such as the liver. I do feed my dogs a small amount (1/2 tablespoon for the really little guys like Carmen and Jacob; 1 tablespoon for my dogs who weigh 15lbs to 30lbs and 2 tablespoon for all the larger dogs) of oil. A good quality oil (containing Omega fatty acids) in these small amounts is as good for the dog’s health as it is for humans, when ingested in proper quantities on a daily basis. Coconut Oil in small daily amounts is also good for dogs.

Eggs -  raw can be a hazard, cooked in small amounts are beneficial
Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella, although the chance of contamination for your dog is low as a dog’s stomach acids are very strong and dog’s also produce a lot of bile. You can cook the eggs to avoid this issue. Due to the avidin it is best not to give eggs every day, but a couple of times a week is fine.

Fish – in large quantities are dangerous, small quantities are beneficial
If fed exclusively or in large amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. A small amount of cooked or canned  fatty fish such as anchovies, salmon, sardines, shad, smelt, mackerel are very good for your dog (on a daily basis is fine – in small amounts) as these types of fish are nutrient rich and a good source of omega fatty acids.

Fish – Raw, can be dangerous, use caution
Raw fish can contain flukes, a parasite that infests the liver of animals including dogs. This parasite can cause liver damage and subsequently death. Granted in some places around the world  dog’s are fed raw fish. Just be aware that in doing so you may put the health of your dog at risk. If you know for certain that the fish in your area is not infested than there is no threat to your dogs health. But remember if fish is fed exclusively or in large amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. A small amount daily is fine.

Food Coloring
Avoid treats and kibble that contain conventional food coloring. Conventional food coloring is concocted from chemicals that are carcinogenic and cause numerous health issues such as bladder cancer, brain tumors and the inability to concentrate.

Grapes, Currents
Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, lack of appetite and kidney damage. Grape seed extract is safe  for dogs.

Hops
May cause panting, elevated temperature, increased heart rate, seizures and death.

Liver – in large amounts, small amounts are beneficial
In large amounts can cause Vitamen A toxity, leading to kidney damage/failure.

Macadamia Nuts
Can cause vomiting, lethargy, hyperthermia, abdominal pain, stiff joints, lameness and tremors.



Marijuana
Can depress the nervous system, cause vomiting, and changes in the heart rate.

Meat – Raw can be dangerous, use caution
May contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even death. Dogs are able to fight off Salmonella and E. coli much better than humans can, however some dogs are severely affected and do die. Raw pork can have worms that may be transferred to your dog by eating raw pork. Many people do feed their dogs raw meat and experience no issues. Working dogs such as sled dogs regularly consume raw meat without issue. Just take precautions – make sure the meat is fresh and has been kept in the refrigerator for no more than a few says or was frozen fresh. Reduce the risk of contamination and don’t feed your dog raw pork.

Moldy Foods
Can have varied effects on pets including vomiting and diarrhea.

Mushrooms
Depending on the type of mushroom. The symptoms may vary – depression, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, tearing, hallucinations, defecation, liver failure, seizures, drooling, urination, kidney failure, heart damage, hyperactivity and in some cases, death.

Mustard Seeds
Can have varied effects on pets.

Onion, Chives, Leeks, Shallots are dangerous, garlic in small amounts is beneficial
Contain thiosulphate, the substance responsible for causing ‘Heinx Factor’ anemia in dogs. Can also cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea. The amount of thiosulphate found in garlic is much lower than in onions, in fact the amount in garlic is barely traceable!  When garlic is ingested in reasonable amounts there are no harmful affects, only beneficial ones! Garlic is known for its antic cancer, diabetes, liver, heart, kidney disease fighting properties as well as its use as a natural flea repellent and de-wormer for dogs.

Pits from Apricot / Cherry / Peach / Plum, etc.
Can cause respiratory difficulties such as breathing, coughing and sneezing.

Plants that are toxic if ingested by dogs
Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants (ASPCA)

Potato Leaves and Stems
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Raisins and Currents
Can be poisonous to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, lack of appetite and kidney damage.

Rhubarb Leaves
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Salt
In large quantities can cause electrolyte imbalances.

Seeds from Apples / Pears
Contain arsenic and can have a variety of bad affects on dogs.

Tea – non decaffeinate
Can have varied effects in pets.

Tobacco
Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems. Can result in rapid heart beat, collapse, coma, and death.

Tomato Leaves and Stems are dangerous, tomatoes are fine
Can cause problems with the digestive, nervous and urinary systems.

Vitamins made for human consumption that contain iron
Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys.

Walnuts
Can cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea, as well as respiratory issues such as sneezing, breathing and coughing.

Yeast Dough – raw, not baked
Can be dangerous as it will expand and result in gas, pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol — an artificial sweetener created from birch, raspberries, plums and corn.1 This sweetener is found in many human “sugar free” products, such as gum, candies and other sweets. Signs of toxicity can be seen as quickly as 30 minutes after xylitol ingestion in dogs. The xylitol causes a rapid release of the hormone insulin, causing a sudden decrease in blood glucose. The following are symptoms of Xylitol poisioning: vomiting weakness, ataxia (uncoordinated movements), depression, hypokalemia (decreased potassium), seizures, coma, liver dysfunction and/or failure. Ingestion can be fatal.

If You Think Your Dog Is Suffering From Poisoning (food, chemicals, insect/snake bites)

The following provides a list of some of the interventions that they may ask you to do, they may also request that you bring your dog in ASAP.

To induce vomiting, give your pet 3% Hydrogen Peroxide (1 tablespoon per 15 pounds of the dog’s body weight) with an eye dropper, syringe, or turkey baster by dribbling the liquid onto the back of his tongue or into his cheek pocket until swallowed. Collect any vomit and take it, along with the poison container or other substance that you think you dog may have ingested and take it to the veterinarian

To dilute caustic poisons such as pine oils, detergents, bleaches, and swimming pool chemicals, feed your dog large quantities of water, milk, or egg whites. Activated charcoal (or even burned toast) may be recommended to absorb insect repellents like DEET.

To remove absorbed poisons…absorbed poisons are substances that get on your pet’s paws and coat and are absorbed through the skin. This type of canine poisoning can happen through ingestion when the animal grooms himself. Wash the area with large quantities of water and visit your veterinarian to prevent long-term effects and discomfort. For oil-based toxins (petroleum products) use a gentle dish washing liquid. Dust or vacuum powdery poisons away because water can activate certain toxins. If the poison is in your dog’s eye, carefully flush the eye with water or sterile saline solution.

‘Inhaled poisons’ include aerosol sprays, carbon monoxide, gases, and other fumes inhaled by your pet that you may not consider poison to dogs because you use them safely on a regular basis. Quickly get your dog into fresh air and administer Rescue Breathing if necessary.

For snakebites, carry your dog if at all possible, to prevent increased circulation of venom throughout his body via walking. Get him to an animal emergency centre ASAP.

For insect bites, administer 1 mg of Diphenhydramine (i.e. Benadryl), an antihistamine, per pound of your dog’s body weight—but do check with your veterinarian first. Applying a cold pack to the bite can alleviate swelling, but immediately seek professional medical help if you detect breathing problems. You can also wipe or spray the bite with Apple Cider Vinegar.

If you think your dog is suffering from symptoms related to poisoning from any of these foods, plants or chemicals call your veterinarian or contact a pet poison control centre right away.

Pet Poison Help Line 24/7 (800-213-6680)

 

———————

“This is Piper she is about 8 months old now. We adopted her from the Paws R Us Puppymill bust. We met her the last Saturday that the Emergency shelter was open. It was love at first sight for me, and she came home the next Thursday. She has been with us since before Christmas and is doing so well. She is a very sweet Puppy and we are so happy to be able to say she is home.” Piper’s Humans, Leonard and Tauney.

This dog is NOT up for adoption. The Ottawa Dog of the Week posts feature a family dog in Ottawa. Each week an Ottawa dog gets to be a star.
The Ottawa Dog of the Week dogs are from loving homes and are not available for adoption.

———————

Dog ear mites are known as otocdectes cynotis, or odectic mites. Ear mites are not like fleas, because they do not feed off of their host’s blood. Instead, ear mites will feed off of ear wax, ear tissues and other oils inside the ear canal. Although dog ear mites are usually specific to the ears, they can in fact, spread to other parts of the body. Not only that, but ear mites are very contagious and will easily transfer from dog to dog, and sometimes even humans.

While ear mites are not generally a serious condition, they may lead to one if they are left untreated. Dog ear mites symptoms are very similar to an ear infection. It is important to keep an eye out for dog ear mites symptoms in order to seek proper diagnosis and treatment from your veterinarian.

Symptoms of ear mites

- Unpleasant odor

- Excess ear wax buildup

- Red, inflamed ears

- Head shaking

- Excessive itching

- Loss of coordination

- Head tilting

Often times, ear mites are confused for an ear infection. The main difference between ear infections and ear mites in dogs is that with ear mites, there will be mite debris. This resembles dark, coffee ground-looking discharge inside the ear canal. Sometimes ear mites may actually cause an ear infection if they are not treated, and vice-versa. This can be very serious and painful, and may lead to a ruptured eardrum which can cause hearing loss. Not only that, but bacteria from an from an ear infection may enter the bloodstream causing illness.

Treatment for ear mites

If you suspect your dog may have an ear mite infestation, take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will perform a few different tests to properly diagnose your dog’s condition, and advise the best dog ear mites treatment.

Antibiotics -Antibiotics are a common ear mites treatment option, and may be prescribed based on how severe your dog’s ear infestation is. These will help to prevent any secondary bacterial infections that may affect your dog’s bloodstream and lead to the organs. Antibiotics will also help reduce any swelling or inflammation in the ear canal, which can make it easier to apply any creams or ointments.

Ear drops -Ear drops are anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and help to fight off bacteria caused by ear mites. Ear drops usually contain pytherin and piperonyl butoxide, both of which are powerful parasiticides. Ear drops for ear mites should only be used after the ear canal is free of wax buildup.

Topical treatments – These are commonly known as miticides, and can be applied to the outer ear of your dog. These topical treatments are also used to treat dog ear mites that have spread to other areas of your dog’s body. Topical dog ear mite treatments can be a little more difficult to apply to the inside of the ear, so they are best used to treat inflammation and infection on the outer ear flap. Using a cleansing solution before applying topical treatments will give you best results.

For more information about dog ear mites, mites on humans and home remedies, visit www.earmitesindogshelp.com

———————

I was ecstatic when I was approached to write a review for Maple Leash, a family owned doggy apparel company that is operated out of Edmonton, Alberta. They’re a small business and they like it that way, because it gives them the opportunity to provide stellar customer service and choose only the best products, which are personally tested by their mascot, Domo, a dog they rescued from abandonment.

It was because of Domo that Maple Leash was created, and so they are giving back to their community by supporting local rescue groups by donating items for silent auctions, a portion of their sales, and my favorite part — they foster dogs waiting to find forever homes. As a foster mom for Hopeful Hearts Dog Rescue, this really touched me.



My own foster, Nanny McPhee, spent the first 6 years of her life in a puppy mill. Slowly but surely she’s starting to learn what life is supposed to be about; treats, belly rubs, and unconditional love — the finer things in life. Maple Leash wanted to do some spoiling of their own, so they sent Nanny their best-selling coat called the Extreme Vest, guaranteed to keep the little monkey warm on her adventures outside.

Aside from the obvious — the oh-so-cute factor — the first thing I liked was that it was incredibly easy to put on. With a nervous and timid dog, this is extremely important. It was no more difficult than putting on a harness, and two side simply snap together underneath.

I figured it would take Nanny a few days to get used to the coat, but much to my surprise, she loved it instantly. It fit her like a glove, making me wonder if perhaps some little elves took her measurements and created it especially for her in their workshop.



The outer shell of the Extreme Vest is made from 100% High Density PU coated nylon, the trimmings are 100% polyester, and it comes with an adorable but removable faux fur hood for those really chilly days. In Nanny’s case we took it off as she’s little nervous with anything around her neck.

Because of the way the coat is made, it’s incredibly easy for Nanny to move around and play in it without feeling restricted, which is always a concern of mine when looking for doggy coats. Aside from being much warmer, I’m not sure Nanny even realized she was wearing anything.



Maple Leash offers much more than coats, so be sure to check out their website for all kinds of must haves. If you get stuck on measurements and you’re not sure what size your furry friend might need, simply email them and they will respond right away. See? Stellar customer service. They’re also on Facebook and Twitter, so when you get a chance, stop by and congratulate them on adopting their second rescue dog, Corona!

Maple Leash wants to share the love, so they’re giving away a .00 gift card to one very lucky Ottawa Dog Blog reader.

To enter, visit Maple Leash’s website and leave a comment below, telling us what you’d buy with your .00 gift card!

Contest closes Wednesday April 11th at noon and winner will be chosen at random. Maple Leash ships world wide, so this contest is open to everyone.

———————