DIGITAL ISSUE 2B | 2022
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER DOG MAGAZINE
RIVONIA: 074 738 2588 | BRYANSTON: 065 945 0261 | RamsayRehab@gmail.com
Ramsay Rehabilitation is a Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy Centre. Heat and Cold Therapy, Photizo Light Therapy, Massage (Acupressure Techniques used), Ultrasound, MNES and TENS Modalities, Hydrotherapy, Therapeutic Exercises, Kinesio-Taping and Home Exercise Programmes.
LET’S INCREASE YOUR PET’S MOBILITY, IMPROVE THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE AND HELP THEM HEAL.
Hello! It’s great to be back for another edition of DQ Magazine. We’re excited to feature some of your dogs in this month’s edition. If you have sent your profile through but don’t feature this time around – fear not – you’ll be in one of the upcoming editions! And for those who haven’t responded yet, check out our social media and follow the instructions for having your dog profiled in the magazine. For those who have made it to this edition, thank you so much! It’s wonderful to meet your dogs and see such stunning pictures of them. In terms of other content this month, we look at the Dalmatian, the ‘nevers’ of dog ownership, the ‘dig dig’ trick and how to give your dog a home grooming session. We’re excited to be heading off to the Pet Expo at MonteCasino this weekend and hope to see you all there for a jam-packed pet extravaganza! Until next time – give your dog a treat from us!
Lizzie and xxx the DQ team Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor
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Designer: Anne Royden-Turner
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DIGITAL ISSUE 2B | 2022
IN THIS ISSUE 06 The Dalmation More than just a spotty dog
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Meet Daniella and Romeo
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Meet Lise and Lila
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Meet Charnne and Milah
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Dog Moms of South Africa
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Trick tutorial Wipe your paws
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Feeding raw Countering the arguments
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Never, never Activities and behaviours to avoid with dogs
Meet Danjele
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Grooming at home For when you can’t get to the groomer
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Body language explained Part 5: the eyes
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Seizures Understanding this common neurological issue
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Dog dress-up Okay or not?
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Ask DQ Your dog questions answered
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The long and short of it How long should your walk really be?
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Products we love
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BREED PROFILE
The Dalmatian MORE THAN JUST A SPOTTY DOG
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BREED PROFILE
D
almatians are playful, easy-going dogs who need plenty of exercise and persistent training. They need invested owners who lead active lives! In return, they will offer enormous amounts of love and friendship. They are great dogs for an active individual or family.
HISTORY The Dalmatian became particularly popular in the UK in the early 19th century. These dogs were known as 'carriage dogs' because they were trained to run under or beside horse-drawn carriages and fire engines, often travelling very long distances.
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BREED PROFILE
ABOUT The only spotted dog breed, the Dalmatian, has remained popular to this day (although considerably less running under carriages is required of them!) Beneath the iconic spots is a graceful, athletic, elegantly proportioned dog. They tend to be muscular with powerful hindquarters that drive them in a smooth, effortless gait. They are strong, active athletes with plenty of stamina, making them ideal companions for runners and hikers. In terms of personality, Dalmatians are known for being intelligent, friendly and outgoing. However, they do have a lot of energy and can get bored quickly or even become
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aggressive with other dogs if not trained correctly or not given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Owners taking on a Dalmatian need to be prepared to dedicate plenty of time to training and movement!
NOTE Since a puppy's bones and joints aren't at their mature strength until two years of age in this breed, be wary of strenuously exercising the dog before this time.
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BREED PROFILE
FACT FILE Height range: 56-61cm Weight range: 18-27kg Life span: Generally, over ten years (average between 11-13 years) Origin: Unknown
TRAINING Dalmatians are sensitive dogs, so early socialisation and puppy training classes will help ensure your dog grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered and happy companion. GROOMING The Dalmatian's coat is his most famous trait and, thankfully, it doesn't take much to keep it in good condition. Occasional baths and weekly brushing with a horsehair mitt or rubber curry comb that remove dead hairs will keep your dog looking his best. His nails should be trimmed monthly, and because his ears flop downwards, these should also be checked regularly. Your vet can suggest a routine for keeping his ears clean.
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BREED PROFILE
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BREED PROFILE The white coat sheds a lot!
Black spots are round and well defined
They have highset, drop ears that taper to a rounded point
Their white coat is short, dense and glossy
Their tail tapers from the base to the tip
Their feet are round and cat-like with well-arched toes
DID YOU KNOW? The puppies are born pure white, with spots only developing a few weeks after birth. This makes it difficult to predict if your puppy's spots will be black or liver-coloured once the dog is mature.
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BREED PROFILE
HEALTH ISSUES Deafness is present in the breed, and responsible breeders will have the parents and the entire litter tested to check that they can hear. A dog with a unilateral hearing deficit (one-sided) can usually lead a fairly normal life, but a bilaterally deaf dog (both ears affected) will need special considerations. Kidney stones are another recurrent issue in Dalmatians. Your vet should be able to advise you on what to feed these dogs to avoid problems. FINAL THOUGHTS With Dalmatians, if you don't fall for their spots, you're sure to fall for their loving natures. We certainly couldn't cope with 101 of them, but if you're looking for an energetic, loyal and playful companion, this could be the dog for you! DQ|2B
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YOUR DOGS
Meet Daniella and Romeo DQ: What is your dog’s name? D: Romeo (@romeo_the_dog__ on Instagram) DQ: How old is your dog and how long have you had him/ her? D: Romeo is 1 year, 9 months old. We adopted Romeo when he was 8 weeks old. DQ: Does your dog have dog brothers or sisters? D: Romeo is an only sibling and loves the individual attention.
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YOUR DOGS
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YOUR DOGS
DQ: What is your dog’s favourite treat? D: Romeo is super food driven and will eat anything. His favourite treats are cheese, egg and chicken biltong. He is also a big vegetable lover. DQ: Does your dog have any hobbies or activities he takes part in? D: Romeo does agility and loves learning new tricks. DQ: What makes your dog unique? D: Romeo has a very unique mix of breeds and I have never met another dog that looks anything like him. He is also the most food driven dog I’ve ever met. He is goofy and incredibly affectionate.
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DQ: Why should your dog be DQ famous? D: We love to see brands and the media promote rescue dogs. Romeo and I are on a mission to change the stigma around rescue dogs and encourage more people to #adoptdontshop. There are so many loving rescues in need of forever homes and we want to show people how incredible rescue dogs can be. Romeo loves to pose for the camera and has the cutest, biggest smile.
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YOUR DOGS
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YOUR DOGS
TEXT: ASHLEY CHAPMAN
Meet Lise and Lila DQ: What is your dog’s name? L: My dog's name is Lila. DQ: How old is your dog and how long have you had him/ her? L: I adopted her in August 2021, so I’ve had her for nearly a year now. DQ: Does your dog have dog brothers or sisters? L: I have no idea. DQ: What is your dog’s favourite treat? L: Anything meaty! Meaty treats and Pumpkin Pupcakes, especially.
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YOUR DOGS
DQ: Does your dog have any hobbies or activities she takes part in? L: She loves playing ball and playing with her friends at day care. DQ: What makes your dog unique? L: Her fun loving personality and her appearance!
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DQ: Why should your dog be DQ famous? L: I want to make her famous to support all the other rescues that need homes and to make people aware of the value of a rescue dog!
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YOUR DOGS
Meet Charnne and Milah DQ: What is your dog's name? C: Milah DQ: How old is your dog, and how long have you had her? C: She is one year six months old; I've had her since she was seven weeks old. DQ: Does your dog have dog brothers or sisters? C: She was one of nine pups in her litter but only has a cat sissy (Layla). They have a love-hate relationship! Milah loves to play and sometimes gets wayyyyy too energetic for Layla.
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YOUR DOGS
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YOUR DOGS
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YOUR DOGS
DQ: What is your dog's favourite treat? C: Biltong definitely! But to be honest, she literally eats anything, from veggies to salads!! The only thing she completely HATES is olives (but that's understandable), and if the veggies aren't in the correct shapes, she'll avoid them as well.
DQ: What makes your dog unique? C: So many things! Milah is extremely cuddly, and she has to be the closest animal/person to you. When it hits 9pm pm, she passes out, and you have to carry her to bed. Her other unique trait is her beach behaviour, where instead of socialising with other dogs or jumping in the waves, she nose splashes and blows bubbles. She has so many quirks that I love so much. I wouldn't change her for the world!
DQ: Does your dog have any hobbies or activities she takes part in? C: We call her the golden seal, as she is ABSOLUTELY OBSESSED with the beach. She'll go lie in a puddle, splash with her nose and blow bubbles. Oh, and she loves hikes @De Kelders and @FernKloof Hermanus.
DQ: Why should your dog be DQ famous? C: We would love to share our lifestyle with y'all and show you what having and being a quirky goldie looks like. Oh, and we just enjoy being exposed to the dog community so we can make more fur friends! Follow Milah on Instagram: @milahs_adventures
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COMMUNITY
MEET DANJELE
“
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I
have loved animals since I was young, but my love for dogs has always stood out. As someone with a busy schedule and chronic illnesses, which prevent me from having children, my dogs have become my children. My eldest boy Oscar found me in 2013 in a lonely, broken place in my life. I lived on my own and only had him by my side until I moved back to my hometown and found the love
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COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY
of my life. Oscar has never stopped being my emotional support; when my mental health falters, he never does. His goofy smile can make anyone laugh, but his soft nature allows him to instinctively focus on someone who needs that little bit of extra love. He will simply rest his head on their chest and go in for a cuddle. I cannot imagine my life without my three fur babies, and this is a love that I want to be able to share with everyone around me. This is also the love that made me start working with Desire at her pet sitting business, and as there was no platform for us to share this crazy passion
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for dogs freely, we decided to start the group Dog Moms of South Africa on Facebook. Our goal has always been to create an opportunity for dog moms to share experiences and learn to care for their dogs to the best of their ability. After the COVID-19 pandemic, we decided to open our platform to help local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs to promote their dog-loving products and services to those who really want the best for their fur friends.” Thank you, Danjele and Dog Moms of South Africa, for supporting DQ Magazine. We really appreciate it!
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B E H AV I O U R
BODY LANGUAGE EXPLAINED PART 5: THE EYES
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dog’s eyes are definitely a window into his soul. Infact, ‘puppy dog eyes’ are evolution’s way of ensuring that we shower our canine companions with love, food and attention. Dogs pretty quickly learn that by staring at us we’ll provide them with treats or cuddles, and predictably those stares become more frequent over time!
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B E H AV I O U R
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B E H AV I O U R
CONTENT EYES You can usually tell if your dog is content just by looking to their eyes. Their eyelids are usually relaxed and a little bit closed, and their gaze is soft. When they are feeling confident, they will hold eye contact for longer. SUBMISSIVE OR ANXIOUS EYES In contrast when your dog is feeling submissive or anxious, they tend to look away and might even give you the ‘side eye’. Some circles call these glances ‘whale eye’ or ‘moon eye’ because the whites of the dog’s eyes are visible.
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THREATENED OR ANGRY EYES If you notice the softness disappear from your dog’s eyes, and see them fix their gaze into a stare, something is probably wrong. If they’re facing a person, a dog or another animal head on they may be trying to assert their dominance. REMEMBER It is important to remember that no one body part gives you the whole picture. Look to the rest of your dog’s body language to best ascertain what is going on. Next issue we’ll be looking at what the ears can tell us about our canine companion’s emotions. DQ|2B
If you want to advertise with us, please contact Courteney Meyer on courteney@dqmagazine.co.za
D O G S AT P L AY
DOG DRESS-UP OKAY OR NOT?
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nstagram is full of accounts with dogs dressed up in a whole variety of (admittedly cute) outfits, and yet on each post you’ll find people commenting that dogs are dogs and they should never be dressed up. It’s tricky to know where to stand on this argument, as there are instances where putting ‘clothes’ on dogs is in their best interests, and there are also certain dogs that enjoy the attention they receive when dressed up. However, for every dog that enjoys the limelight in their new jacket, several others hate being dressed up but are put into clothes regardless. Here we look at a few times when it’s okay to dress your dog up and a few when it is absolutely not. We’d love to hear your views on this, so we will be featuring a post on our Instagram and Facebook accounts later this month where we would love you to comment and tell us what you really think.
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Puppies and small dogs have a large surface area to body ratio so can lose heat quickly. Using a jacket in these instances is often a good idea, provided the dog is happy with it.
TIMES IT IS NECESSARY TO DRESS UP YOUR DOG COLD WEATHER Even putting dogs in jackets in cold weather can be controversial, with many claiming that dogs have their own coats and don’t need ‘artificial ones’. However, every breed is different, and certain types of coats are better able to cope with colder weather than others. A whippet, for instance, has a thin coat and very little body fat, so a jacket is likely to be necessary when temperatures are low. On the other hand, a husky is built for the snow, so putting them in a jacket would be unnecessary. Elderly dogs and puppies are also more likely to feel the cold than a fit, active and healthy adult dog, so those at the extremes of age may also need a jacket.
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TO HELP A NERVOUS DOG If you have a nervous dog, he may respond well to a Thundershirt or a tight-fitting doggy shirt. Tight-fitting garments have been found to have a calming effect on certain dogs. If your dog is an anxious type and you see that he benefits from wearing a doggy sweatshirt, then go ahead and dress him in one. NOTE: Not every nervous dog will enjoy tight-fitting clothing, so don’t make any assumptions. Try the clothing and assess the results before deciding it is okay to dress your dog.
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D O G S AT P L AY
AFTER AN OPERATION If your dog has just had an operation, your vet may advocate using a doggy coverall or t-shirt to prevent them from fiddling with their wounds.
remove it immediately. It goes without saying that no photo is worth upsetting your pet!
WITH A SKIN CONDITION If your dog has a nasty skin condition, grass allergy or even wound, your vet may advise using a dog jacket to help prevent further irritation. Please note that this is NOT a solution to a skin condition or allergy but simply a temporary measure to assist your dog in the short term. Skin allergies and wounds need treatment from your vet.
WHEN IT IS NOT OKAY TO DRESS UP YOUR DOG IF YOUR DOG IS FEARFUL If your dog shows any signs of being scared or uncomfortable, then don’t dress them up. It is not fair to put them through this, especially considering it is only for your pleasure. Even dressing them up for a ‘short time’ for the camera is dangerous, as you could easily make your dog mistrustful of you in the long term.
FOR A PHOTO If your dog is comfortable wearing an outfit for a brief photo shoot, then it is probably acceptable to do this. Some dogs do seem to enjoy the attention they receive, and in these instances, it is unlikely that dressing them up harms them. Please remember, however, that signs of dog anxiety can be pretty subtle, so don’t overlook these. If your dog shows any sign of being unhappy or anxious about the outfit,
IF THE OUTFIT IS UNCOMFORTABLE When dressing your dog, you need to ensure that the item fits. It has to be the right size and must not rub or get caught up in the legs. No cumbersome outfits should be used, and you must always make sure that the item is not causing your dog to overheat. NOTE: Never leave your dog unsupervised in any kind of outfit or jacket.
Some older dogs struggle to maintain their body temperature and using a well-fitted dog jacket can help them to cope with the cold.
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FOR INSTANCES WHEN DRESS-UP IS NECESSARY If a jacket or coverall is necessary for your dog for one of the reasons listed above, you must get him used to it gradually. Be sure to give him lots of delicious treats throughout this whole process. Start by placing the coat somewhere in plain view of your dog where they can investigate it of their own free will. With each session, bring the item closer and closer to the dog. Gradually move on to touching the coat on your dog’s body before finally putting the coat on for short durations. If at any point your dog becomes uncomfortable or you are moving too fast, you DQ|2B
need to go back a step and spend more time at this stage before moving on. The goal is for your dog to associate the item with lots of treats and view it as something positive and not something they are being forced into.
AGREE OR DISAGREE? If you have a strong opinion on dress-up for dogs, we really want to hear it. Please look out for our post this month and give us your thoughts! We’d love to know where the South African dog community stands on this controversial topic.
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D O G S AT P L AY
Brachycephalic breeds might need shorter walks due to breathing difficulties limiting their exercise tolerance.
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HOW LONG SHOULD YOUR WALK REALLY BE?
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he length of your dog's walk depends on your dog's age, breed and a couple of other factors. Here we give some rough guidelines for the length of walk your dog should enjoy, but it is always best to discuss this with your vet or a veterinary physiotherapist first.
AGE Puppies need shorter walks than adult dogs. Puppies have a lot of energy but not a lot of stamina, and their skeletons and joints have not yet fully matured. All of this means that they can damage their bodies if they walk for too long. Short, frequent walks are best for your puppy, and these also allow for plenty of lead training to keep their minds occupied. Short walks of about five to ten minutes, three times a day, will be adequate for most puppies and avoid any joint damage. NOTE: Chat to your vet or physio about when you should expect your dog's growth plates to close. Until the growth plates have closed, you need to control your dog's exercise levels to avoid long-term skeletal or joint issues. Senior dogs can usually walk for longer than young puppies, but not for as long as they may have done in their younger years. Movement is still very good for most senior dogs, but you should keep the walks shorter and monitor how they cope. For seniors, you could aim for one to two walks per day of around 20 to 30 minutes at a time. You can go a little longer if your senior is in good shape, wants to keep going and doesn't limp or show excessive stiffness after going for long walks. Adult dogs can go on longer walks than both puppies and seniors. Your walks may be longer or shorter depending on your dog's breed, body type and personality. Most adult dogs are happy to go on as many walks as you will take them on, but aim for at least two a day and don't be afraid to throw in an extra walk if you have the time.
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BREED Small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers usually need shorter walks because those little legs have to move a lot more to cover the same distance as a bigger dog with longer legs. Brachycephalic breeds – those with 'squashed' faces, such as the Pug and French Bulldog – may also need shorter walks. This is because their short snouts can make it harder for them to breathe, particularly during exercise. Dogs with long backs and short legs like the Dachshund, Corgi and Basset Hound may also need shorter walks, but this will depend on the individual dog. Some of these dogs enjoy long walks and do well to develop their back strength through this exercise, but chat to your vet and monitor how your dog does. For small dogs, brachycephalic breeds and dogs with long backs, start with walks for about 15 to 30 minutes long, twice a day. Start these walks in cooler weather to make it easier for your dog. If your dog enjoys walking and seems happy to walk further, you can gradually increase the distance over time but always make sure to stop before your dog becomes overtired. Medium to large breeds, such as the Beagle and Golden Retriever, can usually go for longer walks, provided they are in good health and good shape physically. These breeds can generally do moderate to long walks easily. Athletic dogs like the Border Collie and Weimaraner are built for speed and stamina. Not only can such dogs enjoy longer walks, but they may also require them (plus other exercise) in order to be calm and happy.
For medium and large breeds, especially athletic ones, start with walks about 30 to 60 minutes long, twice a day. Increase the duration and frequency of walks as much as your dog seems comfortable and excited about.
DOGS WITH HEALTH ISSUES A small number of dogs shouldn't go for walks or should only go for short walks. These dogs usually have physical issues or health conditions that prevent them from safely and comfortably enjoying a walk. It is also worth noting that some dogs simply don't enjoy going for long walks because of fear or anxiety. Talk to your vet if you are unsure whether walking is a good idea for your dog. NOTE: If you have multiple dogs at home of different breeds and ages, you may need some help in best tailoring a schedule that works for all of you in terms of walking routines. Chat to your vet or veterinary physiotherapist for assistance with this. TAKE HOME MESSAGE Ultimately, the times listed here are guidelines, and a tailored schedule should be developed for each individual. If you have any doubts about whether you are walking for the right amount of time or covering the proper distance with your dog, ask your vet or veterinary physiotherapist, and they will be able to help you out.
All puppies need short walks to avoid damaging their joints or skeletal structures before they are fully developed.
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TEXT: DR CAROLINE HOWES - SCHOOL OF ANIMAL, PLANT, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG
TRICK TUTORIAL WIPE YOUR PAWS ‘
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ipe your paws’ or ‘dig dig’ is one of my favourite tricks by far! It just involves having your dog ‘dig’ or scratch at a piece of fabric (e.g. an old towel, a piece of fleece etc.) with both front paws. It is an excellent trick from which to begin graduating into behaviours beyond your traditional obedience work since it is both fun and easy to teach. There is also a practical side to ‘wipe your paws, ’
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which includes both getting muddy paws clean on a towel and building strength in your dog’s front end. From the strengthening perspective, the digging motion uses all the muscles in your dog’s front legs, from their feet to their shoulders, as well as engaging some core muscles. All in all, this can be a great trick to add to your agility dog or active companion’s life!
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HOW TO DO IT 1. Find an old towel, blanket, or piece of fabric. Fleece fabrics work particularly well since they do not catch on a pup’s toenails. 2. Take a treat and place it under the fabric. Point the treat out to the dog. 3. Anytime your dog uses a paw to try to get to the treat, mark (with a ‘yes’ or a click), and give them a treat. 4. If your pup scratches multiple times or with alternating paws, give them a jackpot (three or four cookies in quick succession). This will help them realise that more ‘digging’ is what you want. 5. As your dog’s understanding grows, you can start waiting longer before rewarding them to help encourage them to keep scratching or to use both paws. Just make sure you mark BEFORE they stop on their own. 6. Once they reliably offer the behaviour when they see your ‘digging fabric’, you can add a name to start putting the trick on a cue.
HELPFUL HINTS If your dog is not particularly interested in getting the treat, try moving your hand under the fabric to attract them. If your dog is biting at the fabric instead of digging, start by ‘resetting’ them by throwing a treat and waiting for them to return to work. Treat placement matters! Make sure to drop the treats where your dog is scratching to make it seem like the treat is being ‘dug out’ of the fabric.
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OPINION
TEXT: VENUSHA MOODLEY-NIRMAL
FEEDING RAW
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OPINION
COUNTERING THE ARGUMENTS
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et parents today are armed with more knowledge than ever before, and many are starting to question whether feeding a processed, chemically preserved, artificially flavoured, dehydrated pellet is actually good enough for their dogs. This questioning on the part of pet parents has triggered some negativity in the industry towards the feeding of a species-appropriate raw food diet for dogs. This negativity, unfortunately, centres on a lack of understanding of the principles of raw feeding or a more pervasive resistance to change.
FEED THEM AS NATURE INTENDED In understanding the need for the raw food diet, we need to remember that dogs are descended from wolves and whilst our pets have evolved in many ways, internally, they are still the same and have the same nutritional needs as their wild ancestors. This means that the high carbohydrate content
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT The commercial pet food industry only came into being approximately 60 years ago, so what were parents feeding their pets prior to this? of commercial foods, along with the questionable quality of their ingredients, is problematic for our pets and results in a decrease in overall health and wellbeing. We are not phased by feeding mice to a snake, but we shy away from the thought that our cute little furball is actually a carnivore. Yet, what we need to acknowledge is that nature has equipped our pets with specific tools to allow them to consume raw meat:
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OPINION The digestive system of a dog is short reducing the risk of bacterial colonisation.
A dog’s teeth are made to deal with meat.
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1. One of the primary traits of a carnivore is their dentition, and our dog’s teeth are those of a carnivore. Our dog’s teeth are used for biting, tearing and pulling apart meat, and, for this reason, their dentition varies significantly from our own. Their jaws also only allow an up/down movement, not the side-to-side movement we use to break down plant matter. 2. Our dog’s guts are adapted to deal with raw meat. If you are scared about bacteria from raw meat making your pet sick, please do not fear; nature has taken care of this one too. Your cute carnivore has a highly acidic gut; specifically, the digestive juices are around pH 1-2, and this high acidity is used to digest bone matter and kill off any pathogens. Our dogs also have a shorter gut than humans (about three times shorter, to be precise!). This is significant as bacteria require time to colonise, so with the transit distance being shorter, there is little time for colonisation. In this way, pets are able to handle common food spoilage bacteria that we cannot.
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OPINION
Buying packaged raw meat can be a good option.
HEALTH CONSEQUENCES Not all pets will be sick from a commercial diet, but we need to look at their longevity and the quality of their lives. A human child fed processed junk food every day may not be physically sick, but does he have the same energy levels and quality of life as a child fed whole, fresh foods? The difference between a commercially fed pet and a raw-fed pet is vast and needs to be seen to be believed. We need to start asking ourselves why we are told to feed processed food to our pets and if it is really the best thing to do? The increase in cases of pet obesity, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, and even urinary tract infections is enormous, and all of these conditions can be prevented, managed or even reversed by a species-appropriate, balanced raw diet. DIET FOR PREVENTION, NOT CURE OF ILLNESS The two main aspects of a raw diet that assist with the prevention of health issues are: 1. Protein content. Most raw diets are made up of a minimum of 70% protein. This provides all essential and non-essential amino acids in the most bio-available form for the pet to thrive. Young pets require protein to meet their body’s demands for growth and muscle development, DQ|2B
BENEFITS OF RAW People have been feeding balanced raw diets for decades, and their pets have experienced all the benefits of this diet. Here are just a few: 1. Shiny coats and fur 2. Clean teeth 3. Improved joint health 4. Lean muscle development and retention 5. Less shedding of the coat 6. Improved poop quality (less smelly!) 7. Improved gut health 8. Improved immunity 9. Weight management 10. Decreased vet bills whereas older pets require it for the retention of muscle. 2. Water content. Raw food has approximately 70% water (depending on the meat source), and dry food has between 5-10% water. Water flushes out the bladder and kidneys and prevents kidney disease as well as cystitis and crystal formation.
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OPINION
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO RAW Feeding raw is not easy. There’s research to be done, and you need to be sure the meals are nutritionally BALANCED; otherwise, you can do more harm than good to your pet. This is why most people get it wrong; they feed a piece of chicken or steak and think they are feeding raw when the reality is much more complex than that. There are essential and non-essential amino acids as well as vital minerals and vitamins that need to be provided in order to meet your pet’s cellular and bodily function needs. If you are unsure about how to balance the meals, then be sure to contact any pre-made raw food companies that can supply you with balanced meals. Raw feeding is not about convenience as you are no longer reaching for a bag. It takes more time and more effort, but the benefits you will see in your pet will make it worth it. Great health starts with great nutrition, and when we know better, we can do better.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Venusha Moodley-Nirmal is a Pet Nutrition Blogger based in Ballito and has started her own pet nutrition company, 3LittleAngels Pet Nutrition. She is a qualified Microbiologist and Cellular Biologist who needed to change her own pets’ diets when they started showing symptoms of illness caused by commercial foods. Through her own experience, she has been able to assist pet parents with their pets and provide a better quality of life. Venusha has successfully assisted pets with managing and reversing weight issues, diabetes (these pets are no longer on insulin), kidney disease, IBD, food allergies and skin conditions. You can follow her Facebook blog on pet nutrition here: https://www.facebook. com/3littleangelspetfood
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SOUTH SOUTHAFRICA’S AFRICA’SPREMIER PREMIEREQUESTRIAN EQUESTRIANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE
DIGITAL ISSUE 159B | 2022
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE
SAFETY
NEVER, NEVER ACTIVITIES AND BEHAVIOURS TO AVOID WITH DOGS
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ere we look at some key behaviours to avoid with your dog to ensure you both stay happy and healthy together!
It is never okay to leave dogs unattended in cars.
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NEVER LEAVE DOGS ALONE IN CARS It doesn't matter if it's cold outside or if it's just for a ‘few minutes’; you must never leave your dog in a car. Even when the weather is mild, but especially on a warm day, the temperature inside a vehicle can climb rapidly, as light/heat enters through the glass windows and cannot escape. Essentially, your car becomes a greenhouse. Dogs usually regulate their temperature by panting, but when they can't escape the heat of the car, panting isn't enough to cool them down. Your dog can rapidly become dehydrated and develop heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition. Even if you park in the shade, leave the windows slightly open or give your dog access to water, heatstroke is still an enormous risk. The symptoms of heatstroke are varied but can include panting, dribbling, an upset stomach, collapsing and fitting. If you think your dog has heatstroke, take them to the vet immediately!
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NEVER ASSUME THAT ALL FOOD IS FIT FOR DOGS It's no secret that dogs love food, but their tendency to 'think with their stomach' often gets them into trouble. While plenty of your favourite foods will also be suitable for your dog, always check that what you're sharing isn't dangerous. For example, did you know that grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure? Or that cooked chicken bones can splinter and damage your dog's throat and gastrointestinal tract? Always do your research to make sure that what you're feeding is not just tasty, but safe and healthy!
NEVER TREAT YOUR DOG AS A HUMAN As our best friends, we owe it to our dogs to treat them as they need us to. It is very easy to want to nurture and care for our dogs as we would for our friends and family, but we must never forget that dogs have dog needs, not human needs! One of the biggest differences is that our dogs live in the present, whereas we tend to live in the past or future. This means that praising a dog for good behaviour needs to occur in the moment, not twenty minutes later. Similarly, many dog behaviours tend to occur due to instinct, whereas humans are more likely to reason through their behaviour. Essentially, this means that dogs are never 'planning' to be naughty but just acting on their instinct to satisfy their need in the moment. It is clear, even from these two differences between dogs and humans, that treating dogs as humans could be highly unsettling and confusing for them – dogs are not like human children and should not be treated as such. DQ|2B
ALCOHOL AND DOGS Though you might not need to panic if your pet licks up a spilt drop of wine, it's important to know that dogs can suffer severe side effects from alcohol consumption. Alcohol depresses the nervous system, and this depression can lead to symptoms such as hypothermia, diarrhoea and vomiting. It is also worth noting that many drink mixers contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, even in tiny amounts.
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NEVER FORGET THAT DOGS HAVE FEELINGS Dogs feel – they have emotions, and they understand emotions. Recent studies have shown that dogs experience love like humans and can read human emotions from facial expressions. Dogs have the capacity to love, feel, become depressed and get excited. We need to remember this and factor their feelings into our decisions for the future.
NEVER HIT YOUR PET It is never, under any circumstances, okay to hit your dog. Doing so will only cause your dog to fear you, which can make them harder to communicate with and more difficult to train. Instead, use positive reinforcement to show your pet which behaviours are welcome and rewarded.
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NEVER LET YOUR DOG PLAY WITH HUMAN TOYS It is always best for your dog to play with species-specific toys. Playing with children's toys or 'found objects' can be risky and lead to health issues for your dog. Children's toys are often simply not robust enough for a dog's teeth, and swallowing stuffing or parts of these toys can result in expensive trips to the vet. Similarly, allowing your dog to embark on a high-speed chase with a stick or other 'found object' in their mouth can end badly. Dogs are pretty clumsy creatures at the best of times! They live in the moment, love to have fun and don't necessarily look (or care) where they are going when there's the opportunity to run and play! Sticks often feature as a part of this 'run and play' process, and whilst they can be great fun for your pooch, they can also be very dangerous. Sticks splinter and break, and sharp shards and pieces can pierce the soft tissue in your dog's mouth and throat. In addition, if they're running with a stick in their mouth and they stumble, trip, or collide with another object, sticks can lodge somewhere problematic and require immediate medical attention. To avoid this, discourage your pup from picking up sticks and distract them by bringing safer toys to play with on your walks, such as balls or squeaky toys. DQ|2B
SAFETY
NEVER SKIP VET VISITS IN FAVOUR OF 'DR GOOGLE' Unfortunately, some people believe that they can self-diagnose their dog's health problems online and not seek veterinary care. There is undoubtedly a time and a place for online research to look up additional information, but if a dog acts out of the ordinary or there are symptoms of poor health, seeing veterinary care is of utmost importance.
NEVER YANK ON YOUR DOG'S LEAD OR USE A CHOKE COLLAR Pulling on your dog's lead may occasionally be necessary to keep them from getting into a dangerous situation, but regularly pulling on the lead can result in a fracture. Dogs have a hyoid bone near the base of their tongue that can be fractured in this process, and the neck vertebrae are also vulnerable to damage. These fractures can cause many short and long-term problems. Using a choke collar, which constricts when the dog pulls away, is also dangerous. These collars can cause 'incomplete hanging' where the dog dies from the constriction of the neck while they are still on the ground.
NEVER PUT HUMAN SUNSCREEN ON YOUR DOG Your dog has a coat of fur to protect his skin from the sun. Keep sunscreen out of your dog's reach and off their bodies as it can be toxic to them. Most sunscreens contain zinc oxide, which can be particularly damaging to a dog's intestines if they ingest it by licking it off their skin. Zinc oxide can cause your dog to have bloody diarrhoea and bloody vomit, which is indicative of intestinal damage.
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SAFETY
NEVER LET YOUR DOG DRINK OUT OF THE TOILET BOWL OR FREELY EXPLORE THE BATHROOM In addition to housing dirty water that can make your dog sick, many bathrooms contain cleaning chemicals and personal-care items that are toxic to dogs. If you have a curious pup, it may be best to keep the bathroom door closed.
Chemicals found in toilet bowls can be toxic to your dog.
Never use human toothpaste on a dog. There are many ingredients in human toothpaste that can make dogs very sick.
NEVER NEGLECT YOUR DOG'S TEETH Neglecting your dog's teeth is a big no-no. Many dogs suffer from untreated infections and diseases in their mouths because of this kind of neglect. Experts recommend brushing your dog's teeth daily, but at the very least, you need to brush them a couple of times a week. Contact your vet promptly if you have any concerns about your pet's oral health.
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DON'T LET YOUR DOG RIDE IN THE CAR WITH HIS HEAD OUT OF THE WINDOW This is important as when a dog is riding with his head out of a car window, he could see something that excites him and encourages him to jump out. You also need to be cautious of wind and dirt and the damage these can cause to your dog's eyes. Your dog can also hurt his neck if the windows don't lock or if the window begins to close for some reason.
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SAFETY
NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE IN A PUBLIC PLACE Never leave your dog alone where you can't see them. Pets are stolen every single day in South Africa, and keeping them in sight when out in public is one of the best ways to protect against this. Never leave them alone, whether outside a shop or just outside your house, while you run in to fetch something. Even if your dog is super patient and happy to wait for you, leaving them alone makes them vulnerable to being taken.
A crate should be a safe haven for your dog.
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NEVER USE A CRATE FOR THE WRONG REASONS Time-outs don't work for dogs. If a dog misbehaves, putting him in his kennel or crate is the wrong response. When you use a kennel or crate as a form of punishment, you are teaching your dog that the crate is a bad place instead of a safe haven. You want being crated to be a positive experience for your dog, so never use it to punish him.
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SAFETY
NEVER GIVE YOUR DOG ICE TO PLAY WITH OR EAT In hot weather, it can be tempting to fill your dog's water bowl with ice cubes or give them an ice cube to play with. However, it isn't a good idea for dogs to chomp on ice. Ice is a common cause of broken teeth towards the back of the mouth in dogs, and these broken teeth are painful and can easily become infected. This usually results in a root canal operation or tooth removal being required.
NEVER USE HUMAN ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENTS ON DOGS Medications formulated for people, even topical ones, are not necessarily safe for use on pets, so you must always check with your vet before applying antibiotic cream. For example, one of the popular ingredients in human antibiotic ointments is neomycin which has been linked to hearing loss in dogs.
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DOG CARE
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DOG CARE
GROOMING
AT HOME
FOR WHEN YOU CAN’T GET TO THE GROOMER
W
hether or not your dog has regular appointments with a groomer it is helpful to have a daily grooming ritual in place for your pooch to ensure you spot any health issues as soon as they arise. In addition, there are likely to be times when getting to a groomer is a challenge and you need to do some grooming yourself. Here we look at some general principles and strategies for giving your dogs a good groom, without causing undue stress.
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DOG CARE
PRINCIPLES OF GROOMING 1. Schedule a few minutes every day to groom your dog. It is a good idea to groom your dog every single day at the same time so that he gets used to the routine. Choose a time when your dog is relaxed and then make grooming a habit that you both look forward to. 2. Create a calm space. You preferably want to use a place that is away from noisy distractions and where your dog feels comfortable. If you have more than one dog, it might be worth separating them for grooming to avoid them fighting for your attention. 3. Look out for health changes. By giving a quick groom daily, you will soon pick up any changes. Remembering how your dog’s skin and coat look and feel and how he responds to you touching certain areas can help you to pick up health conditions early.
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4. Watch his body language. Dogs express subtle signs of anxiety or distress that many of us fail to pick up on. This can lead to intensifying a phobia and/or escalating the survival response, even to aggression. We need to ensure we know enough about body language to spot these early signs of anxiety, so situations don’t escalate. During every session, look out for an averted gaze, tongue flicking, panting, salivating and yawning, which are all signs of distress. With fearful dogs, less is more, and the grooming process often needs to be broken down into stages to prevent overwhelming the dog. If you see signs of anxiety or distress, it is a good idea to stop for five minutes to show your dog that you understand his concern and allow him to calm down. 5. Keep treats on hand. It is a good idea to have treats on hand to help keep the association to grooming positive for your dog.
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DOG CARE
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DOG CARE
PROCEDURES SKIN We must ensure that the skin can breathe to prevent sores, skin abrasions and infections. We can allow this breathing through daily brushing and combing the hair one section at a time.
the soapy residue is thoroughly rinsed off and keep the shower hose away from the dog’s face. The face can be washed using your hand and a jug of clean water to rinse gently.
WRINKLES Brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs and breeds with lots of wrinkles like Shar-Peis will require a more intricate bathing routine and careful cleansing of the folds using your finger. You want to dab these wrinkles dry so they don’t become a source of infection.
MATT REMOVAL Daily brushing should prevent matts from occurring. However, if you do happen to come across a matt, you can use your safety dog-grooming scissors and a finger and thumb to very gently cut down and through the matt before carefully brushing it out. If necessary, you can also bathe your dog and use copious amounts of conditioner to try and work through the matt in this way.
HAIR Most dogs should have a bath once every six to eight weeks and four weeks for wool/wool-mix coats (Poodles, Cockapoos etc.). When bathing, ensure you are penetrating right into the skin and exfoliating. Ensure
EYES AND EARS Bathing your dog’s eyes and ears daily is a great way to avoid tear-staining and infection. Use separate cotton pads for each eye/ear. For dogs with woolly coats, you will need a groomer to assist you with keeping the ears clean.
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DOG CARE
TOP TIP Before clipping nails, soak them in lukewarm water for 5-7 minutes. This will soften them and make clipping easier and less of a harsh sensation and sound for your dog.
BUM Keeping the bum clear of hair prevents a build-up of dirt collecting that could result in matting or infection. Use your safety dog-grooming scissors and carefully remove any overly long hair that is prone to get soiled, but leave the genitals for a professional. You can also use a cotton pad to wipe both the bum and genital area to keep them clean and fresh. NOTE: When using scissors, always cut with the lay of the coat, never against and never across. PADS Hair grows between pads and can often cause injury to a dog’s joints due to slipping on laminated or similar floors. However, the hair also acts as a form of protection against foreign objects, especially grit or on exceptionally warm/ cold concrete. For easy maintenance, trimming the excess hair that covers the pads is enough to prevent the dog from slipping while leaving enough hair to protect between the toes. It is also good practice to check the pads after every walk to ensure there are no matts or foreign objects that could irritate or cause pain. In dogs with cracked paw pads, moisturising paw balm can be very useful.
TAKE HOME MESSAGE Whatever your breed of dog, and whether or not they have regular visits to a groomer it is still worth giving your dog a once over every single day to check for any changes or issues. It is also a good idea to work on any fear your dog may have around grooming in the home setting rather than in a parlour. Finally, grooming can be a great bonding exercise for you and your dog and allows you to spend some quality time together! You don’t need to be a grooming pro – just observe your dog’s body language and do what you are both comfortable with.
NAILS Unless you or your dog has restricted mobility, it is a good idea to walk your dog on concrete, and other hard surfaces as this will keep nail length under control. In terms of clipping nails, less is always more. This is especially the case with black nails, where the quick is not easy to visualise. Although cutting into the quick will heal quite quickly, the emotional distress caused will be very difficult to reverse, so it is always best to clip little and often. Dewclaws must be checked frequently to ensure they aren’t cutting into the pads as these cannot be naturally ground down with movement and will need clipping to keep them in check. When clipping them, remember to hold the nail you are working on in place to prevent it from twisting and hurting the dog during the procedure. DQ|2B
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C A N I N E H E A LT H
SEIZURES UNDERSTANDING THIS COMMON NEUROLOGICAL ISSUE
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C A N I N E H E A LT H
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seizure is the result of sudden and abnormal neurological activity in the brain. In dogs, just like in humans, seizures can manifest in many ways and have many causes. Whatever the cause, however, seizures are always accompanied by altered or lost consciousness. This can last from a few seconds to several minutes or, in the very worst cases, hours. Dogs who have seizures regularly are usually defined as having epilepsy.
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SEIZURES Often seizures are preceded by a period of anxiety, restlessness and/ or apprehension that is called the ‘preictal phase’, with the seizure itself being referred to as ‘ictus’. The period following the seizure is termed the ‘postictal phase’ and may involve several minutes to hours of disorientation, stupor and/or blindness. Your dog may walk in circles, bump into things, or run away to try and hide.
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C A N I N E H E A LT H
Lateral ventricle Thalamus
Superior colliculus
Cerebral cortex
Cerebellum
Olfactoty bulb
Corpus callosum
Optic chiasm
Pituitary gland Pineal gland
Midbrain
Hypothalamus
CATEGORIES OF SEIZURES There are a variety of categories of seizures in dogs. These include: GENERALISED/GRAND MAL SEIZURES Generalised seizures usually present as full-body convulsive episodes with tonicclonic movements. Both sides of the brain are affected. The symptoms of fullbody convulsions can include: • Loss of consciousness • Loss of normal bowel/urinary control • Paddling of the legs • Stiffness of the legs • Drooling or foaming at the mouth • Teeth chomping FOCAL SEIZURES These are seizures that originate in one part of the brain, resulting in them only
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Medulla oblongata
Spinal cord
Pons
affecting one part of the body, e.g. one limb or one side of the body. However, focal seizures can turn into generalised seizures.
PARTIAL SEIZURES/PSYCHOMOTOR SEIZURES Dogs can also suffer from partial epilepsy. This tends to be milder and is isolated to a specific behaviour change. Symptoms of partial seizures include: • Running uncontrollably • Engaging in senseless, repetitive behaviour • Fly-snapping episodes where the dog appears to be biting at imaginary flies • Rhythmic tail chasing • Out-of-context aggression • Face twitching • A vacant expression for a few seconds
NOTE It is also important if you have an epileptic dog that the dog is kept separate from any other dogs in the house when left alone, either crated or in another room. It is common that dogs can attack or even kill a dog that is having a fit as it can trigger a predatory response in some dogs.
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These partial seizures can be more challenging to identify, but a dog that has them will always do the same thing every time they have a seizure.
CLUSTER SEIZURES Cluster seizures are a group of seizures that occur in a short time frame. A cluster seizure is usually clinically defined as more than two seizures in 24 hours. REASONS FOR SEIZURES Idiopathic epilepsy (i.e. epilepsy without a determined cause) is the most common reason for seizures in dogs. It usually presents in dogs between six months and six years of age. Although any dog can have a seizure, idiopathic epilepsy is more common in Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Belgian Tervurens, Collies and German Shepherds. Whilst idiopathic epilepsy is the most common reason for seizures, there are other medical reasons why a dog may start to have a seizure such as: • Brain damage caused by diseases or trauma, e.g. drowning, head collisions with other dogs or objects • Poisoning, e.g. by slug pellets, ivermectin wormer (horse wormer that is found in manure). • Viral or bacterial infections like meningitis • Metabolic diseases like liver failure, kidney failure or diabetes with poor sugar control
they fit outside, try and clip a lead onto their collar as they may run and bolt when the seizure ends. If they fit indoors, reduce the stimuli in the environment where possible, e.g. switch off the TV, turn off the lights, and close the curtains. You should also move children and other dogs into another room. • Do not touch or restrain your dog during the seizure unless they are going to hurt themselves, and you need to slide them away from the source of danger. • Stay away from your dog’s mouth and head as they could bite you unknowingly. Don’t put anything in their mouths. Dogs can’t choke on their tongues, so you don’t need to worry about this. • If possible, try to notice the duration of the fit and the symptoms. • If the seizure lasts for more than two minutes, your dog is at risk of overheating, so turn a fan onto them or put cold water on their paws to cool them down. • Talk to your dog gently to reassure them. • Call your vet as soon as the seizure ends.
NOTE If your dog has a seizure that lasts for more than three minutes or they have several in a row while unconscious, take them to your vet immediately. The longer a seizure lasts, the higher the body temperature can rise, the less oxygen your dog gets in, and the greater the risk of brain damage. Your vet may need to give medication to stop the seizure.
FIRST AID If your dog starts to have any seizure activity take the following steps: • Try to stay calm! • If your dog is near something that could injure them, try to move this object away if it is safe to do so. If DQ|2B
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YOUR DOG QUESTIONS ANSWERED
When is my dog considered a senior? Dog senior status varies according to size and breed. Generally, small dogs are considered senior when they reach 11 years of age, medium-sized dogs when they reach ten years of age, large-breed dogs when they reach eight years of age, and giant-breed dogs when they reach seven years of age.
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Q&A
What are the signs my dog is ageing?
Just like humans, dogs show many of the same signs of ageing, such as: • • • • • • • • • • •
Loss of hearing Tooth loss Visual deterioration Loss of muscle tone Decreased energy Arthritis Hair loss Drier and less elastic skin Reduced liver, kidney and heart function A decrease in mental acuity A reduced immune system
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Despite the fact that these changes are anticipated in older dogs, you still need to visit your vet to get them to check your dog over when you notice these signs. Just because your dog is getting older doesn’t mean that his lack of energy can be attributed to this; you need your vet to make sure there isn’t anything else going on. Most vets recommend that senior dogs have regular examinations at least twice a year. Blood work, urine analysis, a full body examination and other diagnostics should be included in these check-ups. As a senior dog owner, you can help your dog to thrive by keeping him as comfortable as possible and managing any tricky symptoms that arise through the assistance of your vet.
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Q&A
Why does my dog lick me?
Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour for dogs. For them, it’s a way of grooming, bonding and expressing themselves. Dogs are instinctively drawn to licking right from birth when their mothers lick them to keep them clean, comfort them and encourage them to go to the toilet. Puppies will then groom themselves and their family by licking, and, aside from being a good way to get clean, it’s also a sign of love, affection and a great way to bond. When dogs lick us, it is usually to say that they
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love us or they want our attention. As humans, we explore the world with our hands, but dogs use their mouths and tongues to help them understand their environment and assess the mood of others. Licking, therefore, plays an important part in bonding for dogs, causing them to release dopamine and endorphins that help to make them feel relaxed, calm and happy. Dogs also like the salty taste of our skin, which is why some dogs LOVE to lick us after a workout! However, excessive licking can sometimes be a sign that your dog is anxious, uncomfortable or in pain. If your dog suddenly starts to lick a lot, or you are concerned about the behaviour, speak to your vet.
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