What is Somatitis?: Inflammation of the Soft Tissues in the Mouth in Dogs

Stomatitis is the condition where the soft tissues in an animal's mouth, such as the gums and tongue, become irritated and inflamed. It can become a major issue if bacteria or infection enters the dog's bloodstream. Treatment options are available, and the prognosis is positive for animals suffering from this medical condition.

Symptoms and Types

Common symptoms or signs of Stomatitis can include:

• Pain

• Bad breath

• Ulcerated tissues

• Extensive teeth plaque

• Excessive drooling or saliva

• Fluid buildup in the gums

The primary types of inflammation are:

1. Ulcerative Stomatitis: This condition occurs when a significant amount of gum tissue is lost in a dog's mouth, and is frequently accompanied by inflammation of the oral tissues.

2. Oral Eosinophilic Granuloma: This condition occurs when there is a mass or growth in the dog's mouth.

3. Gingival Hyperplasia: This condition occurs when gum tissue increases in size.

4. Lypohocytic Plasmocytic: This condition is characterized by the presence of plasma cells and lymphocytes in the mouth -- each are types of white blood cells.

Causes

In puppies, inflammation can occur as teeth become overcrowded in the mouth. Several metabolic disorders are also known to cause this inflammation, including an abnormal amount of waste products in the blood stream, inflammation of blood vessels in the mouth (common with diabetes), inadequate levels of the hormone (called parathyroid) and lymphoma. Infectious diseases and injuries to the mouth can also cause the inflammation.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian will examine the dog's mouth for lesions, teeth decay, plaque and other noticeable signs that may be causing the inflammation. In addition, laboratory blood work will typically be done to rule out any other underlying medical condition for the inflammation.

Treatment

Antibiotics have been proven effective in reducing inflammation of a dog's oral cavity. In some cases, teeth will need to be surgically removed to reduce the inflammation. Teeth cleaning and proper dental and oral health should also ensure a quick recovery and good health for the dog.

Prevention

To prevent inflammation, your veterinarian may recommend that you rinse or brush your dog's mouth. There are also some topical ointments that can be used to reduce or prevent inflammation of the dog's gums.

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4 Ways to Involve Kids in Dog Training

When a new dog is introduced to the family, kids are often eager to help out. The easiest way to involve your children is by including them in the everyday responsibilities of owning a dog. Dogs need to be fed, groomed, and exercised—these are all tasks that children, especially elementary-age kids, can be involved in. Children of all ages can participate in dog training as long as the tasks are age-appropriate and there is adult supervision.

Learn the Basic Commands

The full responsibility of dog training should still remain with the adults, but that's no reason to leave your child completely out of the process. Your child doesn't have to be involved in the complicated aspects of training to bond with the dog. Basic skills such as getting a dog to sit, stay down, come to you when called, and walk on a leash are easily taught with adult supervision. These simple tasks can help your child feel that they are an important contributor. One tip: Use a food treat as an incentive to guide your dog into position when teaching your kid these skills.

Training a dog to sit

To teach a dog to sit, parents should show their child how to hold a treat just above the dog's nose, moving it back over the dog's head slowly. To follow the food, the dog will rock back into a sit. As soon as the dog sits, say 'Good dog!' and give them the treat.

Training a dog to walk on a leash

To teach a child how to walk a dog on a leash, hold a treat or the dog's favorite toy about waist high. Then tell the dog "Let's go," and start walking. The dog will watch the treat or toy and then follow it.

Training a dog to lay down

To teach a dog to stay down by holding food in front of the dog's nose, drop the hand to the ground so the dog follows the food and drops into a down position. As soon as the dog lies down, give the dog the treat and say "Good dog!"

Older kids can also help out with advanced training at home once they've learned the basics. Training is a great way to build a relationship between kids and dogs. Children will learn how to communicate clearly with the family dog, and the dog learns to respond to cues from the kids too—not just the adults.

Consider programs and classes

If your child is old enough, they can also take part in more advanced training. Classes through the national youth-development organization 4-H promote leadership in chapters across the country, and most chapters provide dog-care and dog-training programs. Children from elementary school to high school can take part in 4-H. If you're interested in getting your child involved in competition classes, the AKC offers a number of beginner and advanced dog-training programs through AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen.

Get Involved in Everyday Care

Once your dog responds well to basic sit and stay commands, involve your child in the feeding process. Have your child cue the dog to sit and stay while you put down a bowl of food or water, and then cue the dog to go to it. Model correct ways to treat the dog, and explain treatment rules before the pet enters the home. If there are any problems, such as the dog nipping when the child is giving food or when the child is helping with other tasks, tell them not to respond angrily or to hurt the dog. Instead, have them report the dog's behavior to you right away. When your child interacts appropriately with the dog, reinforce that behavior by saying "You are petting/feeding/etc. her/him so gently/well, I am so proud of you." By teaching your child basic everyday-care tasks, you will also teach them important rules such as, "Always be kind to the dog, don't take their food, don't take a toy when they are playing with it, don't ever tease them" and so on.

Try Variations of Simple Activities

Include your kid in fun, common bonding activities that double as training for your pet. A simple game of hide-and-seek, for instance, can help strengthen a dog's recall. Start the activity by filling a child's pocket with treats. Avoid using a bowl or bucket because the dog may wolf down everything at once and not want the treats taken away after a single mouthful. Have the child stand in a room that's located in the middle of the house and call the dog. When the dog finds the child, your dog should be cued to sit and then given a treat. Now another child should hide in a different room and call the dog, and so on. Once the dog learns the ropes, the children can hide in more challenging locations, behind doors or tucked in the drapes.

Another activity is to play fetch, which is best played after you've taught a "drop it" command and the dog reliably responds to it. This version of fetch is a two-call retrieve activity that reinforces common commands. Have your child throw a ball for the dog to retrieve; when the dog brings the ball back, ask them to "drop it" while showing a second ball. Then ask the dog to "sit" to reinforce the "drop it" command; after your dog sits, throw the second ball. Once the dog goes to get the second ball, continue the game by picking up the first ball.

Be Part of Exercise Routines

Children can take part in a dog's daily exercise routine to learn about responsible and fun pet ownership. Let your child join in when you take the dog for its daily walk around the neighborhood. Parents should always accompany a child and stick to walking on side streets or in parks. Avoid particularly busy streets so you'll always be in a safe environment. If you're worried about your child controlling the dog by themselves, outfit the dog with two leashes, one that the child can hold and one that you can hold. Young children will not have great stamina so it will probably be a short walk at first. Older children may be able to hold a leash on their own—depending on their size and the dog's size—but there should be strict guidelines and supervision.

Avoid retractable leashes that can be dangerous if your child's fingers get entwined in them and prevent your kids from yanking on a leash. Also, advise them to keep the dog away from other dogs during the walk. Even if your dog is friendly, other dogs may not be, and this is a potentially dangerous situation. Make sure to keep the dog close to your side since a long leash can let the dog get too far away to control. You can also take your child and dog hiking on a pet-friendly nature trail or turn your daily walk around the neighborhood into more of a hike. Start walking the dog a short distance down the street, and then build up to going around the block. If the dog is fit and able to walk distances, older children can begin with a half-mile walk and work up to a quarter-mile and 1 mile. Make sure the weather is suitable for walking your dog longer distances.

Dogs can even swim with kids in the family pool or in a friend's pool. If a pool isn't available, check to see if a local lake or beach allows dogs. Make sure your dog and your child know how to swim, and use a canine life jacket for the dog and safety equipment for children who are not capable swimmers. Other exercise routines can involve throwing a ball or Frisbee. Or try hand targeting, which is something kids can play in the yard, with the dog running from one inviting hand to the next. Kids can stand in a park or backyard and tell the dog to "Touch" while offering the palm of their hands for the dog to touch with its nose. Kids can give the dog a treat for completing this trick successfully, and then another child in the yard can call the dog. Older kids can also work on activities that will stimulate a dog's body and mind. A small obstacle course can be built in the yard so the dog and child can work on agility. Running from one low, safe obstacle to the next will provide both dog and kid with great exercise.

A tired pup is a well-behaved pup! And the same ought to go for the kids, too!

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What is Kennel Cough? How can I tell if my dog has kennel cough?

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) is a contagious, upper-respiratory disease. It is transmitted by an airborne virus and often complicated by a secondary bacterial infection. Kennel cough occurs more commonly in puppies and young adult dogs. It is often caught at kennels or shelters where dogs are exposed to many other dogs, which gives it is name. Because the virus is airborne, normal cleaning and disinfecting of kennel surfaces cannot eliminate it.

How can I tell if my dog has Kennel Cough?

Dogs with kennel cough are usually bright and alert and usually eat well; however, they have a dry, hacking cough or bouts of deep, harsh coughing often followed by gagging motions. The gagging sometimes produces foamy mucus. Most dogs with kennel cough do not have a fever.

Treatment options for Kennel Cough

• If your dog has these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for treatment. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or cure a secondary infection.

• Keep dogs in a relatively warm environment and make sure they are rested to help prevent the development of pneumonia.

• Prevent the spread of this disease by keeping your dog away from other dogs.

Prevention of Kennel Cough

In general, healthy adult dogs that come into contact with large groups of other dogs should have a Bordetella vaccine annually, and boarding facilities may require a booster within the last six months. Talk to your veterinarian about protecting your puppy from Bordetella with vaccination at the appropriate age.

When to take precaution and call your vet

It should be known that not every cough is “kennel cough.” Some dogs bark almost continuously while sheltered, which can lead to a sore throat or many other upper-respiratory diseases.

If your dog has a fever, is less active than normal, has a decreased appetite, has a discharge from the eyes or nose, has difficulty breathing, or is older than three years, a more serious problem may be present.

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5 Big Questions to Ask About Pet Obesity - How to Check, What to Feed, and How to Exercise

Obesity is becoming prevalent among pets that come through clinic doors. This is an incredibly critical issue because pets with obesity are at increased risk for developing serious weight-related disorders such as diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and more. We must do better.

To help you better care for your furry loved one, here are the top five questions you need to ask your veterinarian to keep your pet healthy. They’re simple, won’t embarrass you, and just may save a life.

Question #1: Is my pet overweight?

This is the most important question you must ask your veterinarian – and one your vet may not be eager to answer. Unbelievably, many veterinarians are simply afraid to tell if your pet is overweight. This is primarily due to the fact your vet doesn’t want to inadvertently offend you. Weight issues are tricky and loaded with perceived judgment, strong emotions, and social stigmas.

As a concerned pet owner, you need to understand your pet’s weight is one of the most influential factors of longevity, quality of life, and disease prevention. To answer this question, your vet will conduct a couple of measurements, determine a Body Condition Score, and determine your pet's current weight status.

Ask the question. Demand a thorough assessment. Don’t be offended if the answer isn’t what you expected. This isn’t personal; it’s your pet’s future.

Question #2: How many calories should I feed my pet each day?

We’ve got to be specific when it comes to feeding our pets. Don’t fall into the trap of inquiring, “How much should I feed?” You’ll get a generic, inaccurate response. We need precise numbers of calories and nutrients your pet needs. That way, regardless of the type, brand, or formulation of food you feed, you can determine how much to feed. This is a subtle, but incredibly significant difference.

Your vet should then ask you a few lifestyle questions, perform a couple of calculations, and give you a narrow range of calories. Memorize this number. Find out how many cups or cans of your pet food this equals. Feed that amount. Don't forget to include any treats in your daily caloric counts. Those tiny “calorie grenades” can swiftly sabotage the best dietary plans.

Question #3: How much weight should my pet lose in a month?

If your pet is like most dogs and cats, it’ll need to shed a few unhealthy pounds of excess fat. You need to ask how much weight your pet needs to shed and how long will it take to reach a healthy weight. I prefer to think in terms of pounds per month due to practicality and performance. Monthly weight checks are practical and reasonable for even the busiest pet owners. A weight loss plan’s performance is critical to track and monitoring monthly trends is an accurate indicator of success or stagnation.

In general terms, a dog can safely lose 1 to 3-percent of its body weight and cats 0.5 to 2-percent per month. Many dogs can lose 3 to 5-percent and most cats should aim for about a half-pound per month. Losing weight isn’t easy or fast for pets, especially cats. If you put your pet on a crash diet, they can develop serious medical conditions, including a life-threatening form of liver failure that can occur in less than 72 hours. Patience is essential for pet weight loss. Most canine patients will have a 3 to 6-month weight loss plan and cats 9 to 12-months. Your vet will formulate a step-weight loss plan that will gradually decrease the amount you’re feeding over a 1 to 3-month period. This will help curtail cravings, begging, and late-night pestering. There will be some unhappy pooches and purr babies when you institute a diet. Your vet should provide you with tips on preventing these behaviors and transitioning to a new weight-loss diet.

Question #4: What kind of exercise should my pet do?

Most vets and pet owners focus on how long a pet should exercise each day. Instead, ask your vet what types of activities are best based on your pet’s species, breed, age, gender, current physical abilities, and interests.

Walking, swimming, agility, chase, ball retrieving, and remote-controlled toys – the opportunities for physical activity with your pet are endless. The general recommendation is that dogs need at least 30-minutes of physical activity a day and cats should strive for three 5-minute intense play periods. How you spend those minutes will determine if you do it or don’t. Make your outings enjoyable, entertaining, and interactive.
Cat owners, please don’t forget to ask this question. Whether you play with a feather duster or laser pointer, move the food bowl, or use a hip, high-tech toy, engage your cat’s inner predator and encourage it to pounce, leap, and prowl every day.

Did you know there are electronic gadgets that can monitor your pet's activity? They’re a great tool to document how much your pet is walking or playing each day. Better yet, you can share these reports with your vet to spot any deficiencies or ways to maximize your training.

Question #5: Is my pet at risk for a medical problem due to excess weight?

This is a profoundly serious question that you need to understand for your pet’s future. Dogs and cats carrying extra fat are at greater risk for developing debilitating diabetes, crippling arthritis, deadly high blood pressure, kidney disease, and many forms of catastrophic cancer. You need to have a frank conversation with your vet to find out if your pet is potentially facing one of these conditions. If so, what can you do to cut those odds? The most crucial decision you make each day about your pet’s health is what you choose to feed it. Choose wisely; your pet’s life depends on it.

It’s never too late to reduce your pet’s chances of contracting one of these grim disorders. Early recognition and awareness are the best defense against many diseases. Ask the question.

There are many more topics you need to discuss during your time with your veterinarian, but your pet’s weight should be covered at every exam. The few minutes you spend on diet and weight could well be the difference between two additional years of high-quality life or a shortened, suffering final stage of life. Take the time to write down these questions, ask your vet, and act on the answers. Together, you and your vet can chart a course for a better, longer, and happier life for your pet loved one. It’s worth it.

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Reasons to Walk Your Dog

There are few things dogs love more than a good walk, whether yours is the social type who loves meeting people or the type who loves to sniff absolutely everything! That’s why National Walk Your Dog Week (October 1-7) is the perfect opportunity to get outside with your pup!

We love seeing our dogs happy – is there anything cuter than that butt wiggle they do when they’re excited? Knowing that a quick walk can make a positive impact in their day is the least we can do to try and match the joy they bring us every day. Here are just a few reasons to swap your next 30-minute Instagram photo session with your dog for an active walk around the block.

Reasons to walk your dog during National Walk Your Dog Week and year-round:

Keep them healthy

While getting exercise to stay healthy is so often at the top of our minds for humans, we often forget that pets need the same! In the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention‘s 2017 clinical survey, 56% of dogs were found to be clinically overweight. This can reduce the quality of their life, reduce their life expectancy, and cause a multitude of issues for your dog. National Walk Your Dog Week is a great time to set a goal to get your pup out into the world for a substantial walk, around 30 minutes, at least a few times a week.

Chill them out

Not only is the time that you walk your dog a nice opportunity to let your pet get some fresh air and exercise, but it can also prevent them from getting destructive out of boredom while you’re away. If they’re tired out, odds are they won’t have as much time to ponder chewing up your favorite pair of shoes! In addition, it can help energetic dogs expel some energy, which can in turn make them calmer around other people or animals.

Show them love

Pets respond well to interaction, which is why they tend to follow you around the house, or continuously nudge your hand until you pet them! When you walk your dog, it’s a great chance to give your undivided attention to your dog and let them know that you care for them. It may seem like a small task on a mounting to-do list to you but can be a bright spot in your pet’s day!

Focus their training

If your dog needs a little bit of practice learning to heel, sit, stay, or follow other basic commands, a walk is a great time to get them into some of those good habits. Practice makes perfect, so incorporating walks and practicing these skills into their everyday routine will make them even more successful.

Boost your mood

Not only will taking your dog on regular walks make you a more active person, but it can also improve your health in other ways! Spending time with pets can lower anxiety and blood pressure, which is why therapy dogs are so useful. They ease tension, reduce loneliness, and can improve heart health.

This National Walk Your Dog Week, do yourself – and your dog! – a favor and get in the habit of walking your pet regularly. What is your favorite place to explore with your dog? Let us know in the comments!

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