Pro or Antioxidant?

We hear about antioxidants all the time.  We seem to need them, according to the health gurus.  Apparently dogs need them too.  What are they?

Antioxidants protect both dog and human bodies from diseases.  The are vital nutrients that slow the destructive aging of molecules at the cellular level.  They are a bit tricky though and don’t always work the same way for all diseases.

Here is an uncomplicated outline of antioxidants and what they are about:

1.  The term refers to the protective action of specific minerals, phytochemicals (plant chemicals), and vitamins.

Never Too Thin

Everywhere we turn, we’re bombarded with images of being thin and the newest, best, fastest way to achieve the ultimate body.  A balanced diet, rich in fruits, veggies, carbs, and protein along with regular exercise, fend off potential pudginess and reduce illness and stress.  Doesn’t this same notion apply to our family dog?

Shopping for a Vet

When we make a decision to buy something big, we do our research, whether it’s a dishwasher, a car, a home, or more importantly a new furry family member.  How do you know that you are making the best choice?  Sometimes it’s very difficult to figure out exactly where to start.You will want to find someone with whom you will feel comfortable and will  be able to build a longterm relationship.

It is essential that we invest the same amount of care in choosing the best dog doctor available.  It is also a good idea to  have the veterinarian in place prior to bringing your dog into the home.

Yes, There is a Dog

National Geographic Magazine followed Sonia Guillen who led a team of archaeologists to an ancient Peruvian cemetary belonging to the Chiribaya culture, an agricultural society that flourished prior to the rise of the Incan Empire.

Ms. Guillen and her team were surprised to uncover the remains of 83 dogs at the human cemetary, 43 of which had been mummified from puppy to adult.  Many of the canines were provided with blankets, treats and food to be enjoyed in the afterlife.  Each of the mummified pets had its own grave adjacent to their human companion.

Toxic Shockers..or..Don’t Feed These to Fido 

Ok…Just imagine the scene…After a hard day at work all of the house chores are finally finished and you settle in for a couple of good hours of television watching.  There you are on the sofa, with a few of your favorite snacks:  chocolate covered raisins, onion rings, and of course a good beer.  And, naturally, Fido  is anxiously awaiting the first time you miss your mouth and a tasty morsel lands right in front of him.  Or maybe you’re just a soft touch for those nearly watering eyes that beg you for a small taste of what you are having.

The Nose Knows: Why it’s Wet

As the story goes, God gave dogs wet noses for saving Noah’s Ark from sinking.  Apparently while a dot was patrolling, he discovered a small leak and stuck his nose into it, thereby averting disaster by flood.

The companion dog ran to tell Noah who repaired the hole.  God gave dogs cold, wet noses as a sign of health.

Now for the other truth.  Scientists speculate on tow popular reasons.  The first is that evaporation from the nost helps keep the dog cool.  The other is that a moist nose detects odors at a greater level of sensitivity.

Summer Travel Tips

Summer is when you and your canine pal get out together to enjoy sun and warm weather, outdoor activities and travel.  You will want to make sure that your dog stays safe and out of harm’s way.

• Don’t leave your dog in the car!  The inside temperature can reach 120 degrees in minutes.  Your dog could suffer heat exhaustion, stroke, brain damage or death if left even "for a moment."
• Watch out for toxic plants if your are someplace where the foliage is unfamiliar–probably best not to let your fur person eat strange plants or berries.

S.O.S.!  Signs of Stress in Dogs

YIKES!  Did you know that dogs can absorb our stress?  I have noticed that every time I take out a suitcase and get ready to venture out for a weekend, the dog becomes a different person, trying to pack himself into the suitcase. Even though I reassure him that he won’t be left to fend for himself, he lurks around and even tries to fit inside any convenient pocket.  Mind you, this is not a pocket-sized dog we’re talking about.  Only Corgi sized. Dogs can feel stressed when frustrated or afraid.  They are similar to us in that, and regardless of whether the stress is positive or negative, it still exists.

What’s That Smell? Aromatherapy for Dogs

One of the first books on the subject of aromatherapy was written by a Frenchman named Renee Gattefosse.  Everything that he shared in the book was tested on dogs.  And, lo and behold, aromatherapy works for them and their humans.

What is aromatherapy, anyway?

It is the practice of using plant essential oils to enhance the physical and psychological well-being of the recipient.  Taken from plant’s flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, roots, and rind, the essential oils are combined with oil, alcohol, or a lotion to deliver their healing powers. Aromatherapy makes use of the entire plant rather than isolating specific components of the plant for its active ingredients.