As a veterinarian, one of the most common chronic conditions I encounter in older dogs is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). It's a progressive, irreversible condition, but with the right management including medication, lifestyle changes, and most importantly, renal-specific nutrition—dogs with CKD can live longer, healthier, and more comfortable lives. Let’s break it down so you can better understand the condition and how to support your dog through it. What Is Chronic Kidney Disease? The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining a dog’s overall health. They filter waste, maintain hydration, regulate blood pressure, and support red blood cell production. When...
Administering medication to your dog can be a challenging task, especially when they become adept at detecting and avoiding pills. However, with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can make the process smoother for both you and your canine companion. 1. Conceal the Pill in Tasty Treats One of the most effective methods is to hide the pill in a small amount of food that your dog finds irresistible. Options include: Canned dog food Cooked sweet potato Soft dog treats that can be molded around the pill Ensure you hand-feed the medicated treat and observe your dog...
The summer heat can be brutal, and dogs are particularly vulnerable to overheating. Heatstroke is a serious condition that can lead to organ failure or even death if not treated quickly. Knowing how to cool down a dog showing signs of overheating before reaching the vet can be lifesaving. Here’s what you need to do. Recognizing Heatstroke in Dogs Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body temperature rises dangerously high (above 104°F). Watch for these symptoms: Excessive panting Drooling Weakness or lethargy Vomiting or diarrhea A bleeding nose (a severe sign of overheating) Confusion or collapse Immediate Actions to Cool Down...
As pet parents, we all want the best for our dogs, especially when it comes to their health. Whether it’s joint pain, skin issues, digestive troubles, or anxiety, the choices are many. But when should you go for a vet-prescribed medication, and when is a supplement enough? Let’s break it down. What Are Supplements for Dogs? Supplements are products made to support your dog’s health — think of them like vitamins or health boosters. They're usually used to: Promote joint health (like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids) Support digestion (like probiotics) Improve coat quality (biotin, zinc) Manage stress (like...
Times are changing and so is the style of parenting pets. One question that we often find people thinking about is.. Kibble or home cooked food? There are some new angles to this debate as well and those are raw food angles but we will not get into that because raw food in India should be a BIG NO! With the kind of weather we have, it won’t take too long for Salmonella to grow in raw meat so why take a chance with raw food? That said, the question of what is better, home-cooked food or kibble remains. While...
Leaving your dog behind while you embark on a vacation can be a daunting experience for both you and your pet friend. Ensuring their well-being, comfort, and continued health requires thoughtful planning. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this situation, incorporating insights from reputable sources and focusing on the Indian context. 1. Evaluate Your Dog's Needs and Preferences Before deciding on the best care option, assess your dog's temperament, health status, and daily routine. Some dogs thrive in social environments, while others may experience stress when introduced to new settings or unfamiliar faces. 2. Explore Care Options a....
