Author Topic: New to Dogs in General?  (Read 397 times)

Offline Keeper

  • Sandra
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New to Dogs in General?
« on: April 21, 2006, 05:27 PM »
CANINE CARE

Good nutrition is essential to the health, appearance and performance...and your dog's good behavior, too.  Consult your veterinarian as to your dogs health.
If your Breeder has given you a Dietary Guideline and Feeding Schedule for you new puppy - please try to follow it.  If you have a good breeder they will have provided your puppy with the right food to help him/her grow.  But remember that these needs will change during the animal's lifetime, according to age, activity level and temperament.

Keep your dog, its feeding utensils, toys, bedding and living area clean and dry.

Keep good records of your dog's medical history and know when vaccinations, tests for worms and periodic vet visits are due.  Your vet is the key to a longer and healthier life.

CANINE TIPS

You don't have to be a vet to know your dog is ill or hurt.  You DO need to see a vet to know why and what is wrong and to establish effective treatment.  You can however, detect illness or some disease conditions at an early time.

Your dog's eyes are mirror of its internal health.  Red membranes or yellow discharges which persist are signs of infection or irritation.

Examine your dog's ears.  Any sour odor or dark waxy accumulation suggests bacterial infection or infestations of ear mites.  Neglect of either condition can lead to very serious complications such as deafness and scarring of the external ear canal requirein surgical repair.

Examine the hair coat and skin.  Ruffling your hand against the hair will disclose flea feces or ticks, if present.  Scaly dandruff or other abnormal appearances need to be checked by your vet.

The animals eating habits and frequency and character of bowel movements are all barometers of consistent health.  Learn to REALLY look at your dog and frequently.  Your'll help him to live a happier and longer life.
Sandra
"A Ridgeback isn't just another dog...It's a Lifestyle!"
www.kissiridgebacks.com

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