ruthmacpete – Dr. Ruth MacPete

Author: ruthmacpete

Thanksgiving Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe

November 12, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Each year, millions of pets become ill during the holidays, with intestinal obstructions, chocolate or other toxicities, and pancreatitis, being some of the most common reasons. In order to ensure that your Thanksgiving holidays are filled with happiness rather than long waits in a veterinary emergency room, follow these simple precautions to help keep your pets safe.

Obesity
Calorie-filled holiday feasts and sweets can lead to a few post-Thanksgiving extra pounds for us and our pets. Although sharing our leftovers with our pets may be in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, it can lead to pet obesity. Pet obesity is associated with significant health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. In addition, giving leftovers at the table routinely also promotes begging and reinforces bad behavior.

Pancreatitis
Besides leading to obesity, eating fatty holiday foods can also cause a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas gland called pancreatitis. In pets, pancreatitis is usually caused by ingestion of fatty foods like turkey, ham, gravy, and chicken skins. If left untreated, it can be fatal.

Bones
Bones also pose a serious danger to pets. Poultry bones are dangerous because they can splinter and get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract and therefore should never be given to pets. Ham and beef bones can break teeth or can also cause intestinal obstructions. If you wish to give your pet a special holiday treat, instead of giving them bones, consider giving them a healthy dental treat specially intended for safe chewing and dental hygiene.

Dangerous Foods
Chocolate: Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Depending on the amount consumed, it causes vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death. Never give your pets chocolate and of course keep this sweet treat out of reach of your pets.

Xylitol Flavored Sweet Treats: Candies, desserts and other foods that contain the artificial sweetener xylitol are very dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release leading to low blood sugar levels and can also cause liver failure. Be sure to keep all these sweet treats out of reach of hungry pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy or dessert containing xylitol, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

Raisins and grapes: Many Thanksgiving dishes contain raisins or grapes which can be very dangerous for pets. Grapes and raisins have been reported to cause severe kidney damage.

Nuts: Many nut varieties are toxic to pets and can have a devastating effect on dogs’ nervous systems. Walnuts and macadamias are especially toxic and can cause vomiting, paralysis and even death.

Onions: Onions, chives, and garlic in any form are poisonous to pets. They cause lethargy, weakness, ataxia (lack of coordination), hyper-salivation, anemia, and even death.

With so many tasty dangers often at pet’s eye level, it is always best to keep pets out of the kitchen and away from the celebration. And while sharing is in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, sharing leftovers with our pets can lead to serious health problems. Instead of giving your pet leftovers from your holiday meal, give your pet a pet-safe treat or a new toy.

Lost Pets
Although the holidays are usually joyous times, as anyone who has ever hosted a holiday party knows, they can also be stressful times. This can be especially true for our pets. The revolving door of visiting guests and the break from the routine can frighten our pets and cause them to run away. If your pet tends to easily get scared, nervous, or becomes protective, it is important to keep them confined safely inside your house. Many pets are lost during the holidays when they jump out of their yard or dart out of an open door. Remember all pets, even strictly indoor cats, should have collars with tags and microchips so that if they become lost they can be returned safely home.

Paying careful attention to these warnings will help keep the Thanksgiving holidays happy for you and your pet and should prevent unscheduled visits to your veterinarian.

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Pet of the Week

Kiki from FOX 35 Orlando

November 11, 2019November 11, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Kiki, the adorable little pomeranian that joined me on Fox 35 Orlando, is looking for her fur-ever home.

Kiki is an 11 month old, female, lovely, fox-red Pomeranian with a classic powder puff coat who weighs about 7lbs.

Here is her rescue story:

“Kiki came to Florida Little Dog Rescue at 7 months old with a broken leg when her previous owner decided EUTHANIZING her would be a more convenient choice than dealing with surgery and a tedious convalescence. Fortunately the vet said heck no to that, so this darling girl came to us. She has been a great sport over nearly three long months of surgery with pins and a plate to repair the leg and then enforced crate confinement to protect her during the healing process. Despite everything, Kiki remained her happy, nice and very energetic puppy self throughout.

Her foster mom says: Kiki is ready to resume her life as an adorable and adored member of a family as she completes the final and manageable stage of her recovery and moves back into the mainstream. Her leg is healed but should still be considered somewhat fragile. Full robustness may take a few more months. At this point she is able to walk on a harness and leash for prescribed distances, have some supervised freedom in a safe smallish room, and enjoy some fresh air in a small outdoor space (an ex-pen in the yard). Her new owner will need to enforce this.”

So if you are looking for a diva/Kim Kardashian of dogs with all the envy and attention great beauty brings contact us and get ready to have your life taken over by Kiki!

She is happy, loving, active, energetic, mischievous, funny, bossy, entitled, way too smart and so darn cute. This little girl loves people and is dog and also cat social – to the dismay of the cat. She loves treats, squeaky toys, balls, playing in the water bowl and pulling her older sedate Pommie friend backwards by the tail. She likes spending time outside in her enclosure and will collect mulch, attempt some digging, and likes to monitor invading lizards and squirrels. She has a calm, sweet princess side and naps or sleeps peacefully on your lap or somewhere nearby, rides in a purse/carrier, follows you around, bestows kisses upon the deserving, and is totally affectionate.

Kiki is a luxuriously coated Pom and will need regular professional grooming along with frequent comb-outs at home.

Please do not apply unless you want to spend time with, resources on, and have a highly interactive relationship with your dog. Kiki must have a special and careful home with someone who is there more often than not, wants to give her the attention required and will enjoy providing a proper environment for her. Her broken leg seems to have been accidental, probably from her leaping off of something high, so her new owner must protect her from this and see that her surroundings don’t pose any danger. She is too energetic and daring for her own good when left to her own devices or when bored, so she needs safe ways to expend some physical and mental energy with you through walks, outings, supervised play or maybe a job as a visiting celebrity. Kiki can be barky when confined or alone, so no shared walls are best. She is not fully potty-trained at the moment, as this has been hard while on crate rest, but she is learning and does not like soiling her crate. She will bark to get out of it to use a nearby pee pad and she will take advantage of outdoor opportunities. I think she was perhaps housetrained before her injury and will soon get the hang of it again.

Kiki would love a dog friend her own size, but any interactions must be carefully monitored for some time to come.

Absolutely no small children in the home or frequently visiting, and no larger dogs, no exceptions, no matter how nice. She is too small for either to be safe for her and her bionic leg. Thank you for understanding.

Fostering this girl has been be a privilege. If you think Kiki is just what your life needs, she is here waiting, rather impatiently, for her new people:)

Kiki is spayed, heartworm negative, up to date on her vaccines, and microchipped.”

For more information about Kiki and how you can meet her and if you are lucky enough…adopt her contact Florida Little Dog Rescue.

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Pet Tips

Diabetes in Pets: Do You Know the Signs?

November 8, 2019November 8, 2019
by ruthmacpete

November is American Diabetes Month®. Diabetes is not just a human disease; dogs and cats also suffer from this all too common disease. In fact, estimates report that diabetes affects about 1:200 cats and 1:300 dogs nationwide and it is increasing at an alarming rate. Fortunately, diabetes is a manageable condition in pets just like humans.

WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body is unable to regulate the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body fails to produce the hormone insulin. Insulin is released when blood sugar levels are high and results in the transfer of sugar from the bloodstream into cells to be stored or used for energy. Insulin resistant or Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes less responsive to the effects of insulin. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes result in chronically elevated levels of sugar in the blood that damage capillaries and eventually lead to nerve damage, kidney failure and even death. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes seen in cats, while Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in dogs.

WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disease influenced by both inherited and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition seems to be an important risk factor, and in dogs, certain breeds, like Keeshonds and Samoyeds, are more likely to develop diabetes. Age is another important risk factor. Though it can affect animals of any age, it is more common in middle-aged and older animals. However, of all the risk factors, obesity is the most important for Type 2 diabetes, especially since the prevalence of obesity is increasing. In the United States, it is estimated that 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES

The classic symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, increased appetite, and increased urination. In addition to these textbook symptoms, pets with diabetes may become lethargic, lose weight, have a dull coat, and in dogs, develop cataracts. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes so that you can promptly seek veterinary care if you notice any of these in your pets. Of course, it’s important to mention that animals are very adept at hiding illness so these symptoms may be difficult to recognize initially. That’s why regular veterinary check-ups are so important. Annual examinations and diagnostic tests help to uncover diseases, like diabetes, early when they are typically easier to treat or manage.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR PET HAS DIABETES?
If you think your cat or dog may have diabetes, see your veterinarian immediately. Diabetes is diagnosed by having your veterinarian perform simple blood and urine tests on your animal. These fast and easy diagnostic tests allow your veterinarian to detect abnormally high levels of sugar in your pet’s bloodstream and also look for the presence of sugar or sugar breakdown products in their urine.

TREATMENT
So what can be done? Fortunately, being diagnosed with diabetes is not a death sentence. Diabetes is a manageable disease. The goal of treatment is to provide stable blood sugar levels. This can be achieved with some combination of diet, insulin and at-home monitoring. There are several different types of insulin available with different durations of action, your veterinarian will assess your pet to determine which type of insulin will be best for your particular pet. In addition to insulin, diet and weight loss are just as important when it comes to treating diabetes in pets. Recent nutritional studies show that switching to a low-carbohydrate and high-protein canned food diet is the most effective dietary routine for most diabetic cats. Speak with our veterinarian about what if any nutritional changes are necessary for your particular pet. Weight loss is also important because obesity is a common cause of insulin resistance. Fatty tissue releases factors that impair the effects of insulin. To promote weight loss, you should exercise your pets in addition to following your veterinarian’s dietary suggestions. At-home monitoring makes a huge difference in the quality of life of pets with diabetes. Through proper veterinary care and the right at-home blood glucose monitor, calibrated specifically for dogs and cats, diabetes in pets can be successfully managed on an ongoing basis.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE
Diabetes is an increasingly common problem in dogs and cats. Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of diabetes and watch for their development in your pet. Take your furry friend to their veterinarian for regular examinations and screening tests since it is best to catch diseases early before they become advanced and develop complications. If you discover that your animal has diabetes, remember diabetes is a manageable disease and with treatment most pets with diabetes can live long healthy lives.

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Pet of the Week

Pet of The Month-Pappy

November 8, 2019November 8, 2019
by ruthmacpete

In honor of National Diabetes Awareness Month, Pappy from Best Friends Rescue in Los Angeles is the Pet of The Month. Pappy is an 8-year-old male terrier/chihuahua mix with diabetes. He may be small and weigh only 13 lbs., but he has a huge heart and loves everyone, and I do mean everyone. He loves dogs, cats, and people of all ages. He loves going for walks, being carried (in a baby Björn), snuggling, and like all pets, loves taking naps. His foster parents say he has great manners and a sweet happy personality. No wonder he is a staff and volunteer favorite at Best Friends.

Pappy is an amazing dog. The only reason this little guy hasn’t been snatched up is that he is diabetic. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that pets, just like humans, can live long healthy and happy lives with diabetes. Pappy’s diabetes is well controlled with twice a day insulin shots and a special diet. For more about information about diabetes in pets check out my latest blog Diabetes in Pets: Do You Know the Signs?

If you think you have what it takes to be Pappy’s fur-ever home, please contact Best Friends to meet Pappy.

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Pet Tips

Halloween Hazards all Pet Parents Need to Know

October 17, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Halloween is almost here! Halloween is my all-time favorite holiday. Ever since I was a kid, I have loved Halloween but… not everyone loves Halloween. In fact, many animals are downright terrified by the holiday. In addition to being scary, Halloween can be dangerous to our pets. It is important all pet parents know the four most common Halloween pet hazards and how to keep their pets safe this Halloween.

1.Open Doors
The spooky decorations, eerie noises, ghoulishly dressed little people ringing doorbells and yelling “trick-or-treat” can be frightening to our pets. If you have a nervous, shy or easily frightened pet it is best to keep them inside your house and away from the door. Likewise, if your pet is very protective, keep your pet safely secured inside the house. Sadly, many frightened pets get lost during Halloween every year when they dart out of an open front door or escape from their yard. It’s best to give your pet a treat and keep them safely away from the commotion in a back room.

2.Candy
Scary trick-or-treaters aren’t the worst hazard to our pets. Candy is probably the biggest danger. As most people, know chocolate is toxic to our pets and can be fatal. However, it’s not just chocolate that we have to watch out for. Candy with xylitol, like sugar-free gum, is also vey dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release and low blood sugar levels and can lead to liver failure. Be sure to keep all Halloween candy away from your pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

3.Decorations
Halloween decorations can be another big danger to our pets. Flickering candles, jack-o-lanterns, and twinkling lights don’t just capture our attentions, pets are curious by nature and are drawn to these lights as well. Unfortunately, pets can get burned if they get too close to a candle or jack-o-lanterns, or worse, start a house fire. Halloween lights are pretty but can also be dangerous to ours pets. Pets can get tangled in lights, or worse yet, they can get electrocuted if they chew on them.

4.Costumes
Some people, like me, love to dress their pet up for Halloween. Just be sure you use a costume made especially for pets and never leave them in a costume unattended. Pet costumes are designed to fit your pet comfortably and to come off easily. Even so, you should never leave your pet alone in a costume. Some animals may decide to take their costume off themselves and become entangled, while others may decide to eat the costume in order to ensure they won’t have to wear it again.

This Halloween, make it a priority to keep your pets safe and sound. Keep your cats inside if you don’t already do so, and put your dog in a back room, especially if they are shy, nervous, or easily frightened by kids, loud noises, and lights. Be aware of common Halloween hazards like candy and decorations. Finally, if your pet doesn’t already have a collar, ID tag and microchip, get these before Halloween just in case your pet gets frightened and runs away during all the spooky commotion.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

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Pet Tips

Bloat-What dog owners need to know

August 29, 2019
by ruthmacpete

What is Bloat?
Gastric Dilatation –Volvulus, more commonly referred to as bloat, occurs when a dog’s stomach becomes distended with food, liquid or gas. Once distended the stomach can rotate or twist causing a life threatening condition where blood flow is decreased to the stomach and an animal quickly goes into shock.

Does it occur only in large breeds?
Certain breeds, like large or giant breeds, are more likely to develop bloat due to their body confirmation, specifically their deep chests. The breeds most commonly affected include: Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, German Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. However, any breed can develop bloat.

What are the common signs of bloat?
Animals suffering from bloat may initially have trouble swallowing, drool excessively, try to vomit (though typically nothing comes out), pant, pace and act uncomfortable. As the condition progresses and the stomach rotates and compromises blood flow the animal may go into shock and then will exhibit signs common to shock which may include: pale mucus membranes, tachycardia, collapse, etc.

What to do I do if I suspect my dog might have bloat?
If you think your dog may be suffering from bloat it is imperative that they receive treatment immediately. Call your veterinarian or go to the nearest emergency clinic for treatment. Left untreated bloat can be fatal within a few hours. If you see any of the above signs or are concerned that your pet may be developing bloat don’t wait, call your veterinarian immediately for assistance

Is Bloat or GDV preventable?
The best way to prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus in at risk breeds is to have your veterinarian preform gastropexy surgery. This is often done when your dog is young and is spayed or neutered. This procedure attaches the stomach to the body wall so that it is unable to twist if dilated. While it does not prevent gas dilation of the stomach it does prevent the stomach from rotating which is the reason GDV is life threatening.

How do you treat GDV?
Again its important people realize that bloat is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. The first thing your veterinarian will do is stabilize your dog, as most will be in shock. This will likely involve giving intravenous fluids, pain medication (bloat is very painful), antinausea medication and more. Then your veterinarian will remove the air, fluid or food from the stomach. Once stable immediate surgery is needed to reposition the twisted stomach.

Can dogs get bloat twice?
Yes unless a gastropexy is performed a dog can develop bloat again. Even with a gastopexy an animal can develop gastric dilation but should not have twisting or rotation of their stomach, which is what causes an animal to go into shock and is ultimately fatal if untreated.

Common myths about Bloat or GDV:
There are a lot of myths out there about bloat. One of them is that giving your dog simethicone (gas X) will prevent bloat. Unfortunately this is has not been proven to be effective for treating bloat. Another common myth is that drinking ice water can cause a dog to bloat. Again there is no scientific evidence to support this theory.

For more information about bloat or if you have any questions about bloat prevention it is always best to speak with your veterinarian.

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Pet Tips

Cool Pet Products from SuperZoo (as seen on KTNV)

August 20, 2019August 20, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Click here to watch the segment

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Pet Tips

A Sneak Peak at Some of the Products from…

August 19, 2019August 22, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Pet retailers from around the world are in Las Vegas this week to showcase their latest pet products. SuperZoo, the largest pet industry trade show in North America, features every kind of pet product imaginable: foods, treats, toys, leashes, grooming supplies, pet apparel, and the latest gadgets, all under one roof. Since SuperZoo is not open to the public, here are some pet products that caught my attention.

New Dental Treats

Most pet parents know that dental chews can help keep their pet’s teeth clean and gums healthy. The Missing Link® has recently released Smartmouth™, a new dental chew designed to not only keep their pet’s teeth clean, but also to provide them with essential vitamins and nutrients. The Missing Link® Smartmouth™ Dental Chews have unique ridges and textured grooves to help clean teeth, provide omega-3 fatty acids to promote a healthy shiny coat, glucosamine to support mobility and joint health, and Stay-C™, a patented form of vitamin C, to help fight tartar and promote healthy gums.
https://missinglinkproducts.com

Travel Bowls
Have you ever taken your dog on a hike but forgot to bring a bowl? If you have, you know how hard it for dogs to drink water from a bottle. Fortunately, pet parents can choose from a variety of portable travel bowls. I like Bella Roma travel bowls because they are lightweight, collapsible, BPA-free, and unlike cloth travel bowls, they hold water better because they keep their shape. They even come with a carabiner so you can clip them to your purse, backpack, or your dog’s harness or leash, and not forget them at home. https://lovingpetsproducts.com/product-category/dog-bowls/bella-roma-travel-bowls/

Toys
Do you have a dog whose super power is destroying toys in under 5 minutes? HERO® has an assortment of durable toys designed with your dog in mind. HERO® Outer Armor™ dog toys are built for intense play and use the latest advances in materials, design, and technology for durability. HERO® Chuckles are plush dog toys that squeak, crunch, or chuckle. Unlike many plush toys, they have reinforced lining and stitching for extra durability. They are available at pet stores nationwide and Amazon.

www.herodogtoys.com

Eco-Friendly Cat Litter
When it comes to litter, pet parents have many options to choose from. For environmentally-conscious cat parents, Healthy Pet® Okocat™ litter is a great choice. Okocat™ litter is a 100% natural litter that is good for your cat, your family, and the environment. It’s made from reclaimed wood and doesn’t have the chemicals or toxins found in many litters. It also comes in a variety of formulas, such as clumping, non-clumping, and different textures so there’s something for every cat. While fairly new in the US, Healthy Pet® is part of JRS, a family-owned company with 100+ years of natural fiber product research. https://www.healthy-pet.com/okocat

Fashionable Dog Carriers
Let’s face it, our dogs love spending time with us. One perk about having a small dog is that you can carry them in a sling and take them wherever you go. Susan Lanci has a great selection of stylish dog carriers, ranging from her high-end Luxury purse carriers, to her more accessible cozy Cuddle Carriers. Both collections made out of soft, plush materials and are designed to look great. No matter which carrier you choose, you and your pampered pet are ready to hit the town with one of her fashionable carriers.
https://susanlancidesigns.com

Cozy Beds
Dogs and cats know the value of relaxation. Whenever they have any down time, you are likely to find them taking a nap. There’s a reason it’s called a “cat nap.” That’s why your pet will enjoy a comfy new bed from Susan Lanci Designs. Cuddle Cups are unique beds that can be used 3 different ways: like a sleeping bag for pets that like to tunnel, pulled open like a blanket, or the sides can be rolled up to make a bed. Cuddle Cups made from plush materials and they are available in several fun colors and patterns.

Super Stylish Pet Accessories
Everyone wants to look their best and pets are no exception. Susan Lanci Designs offers an assortment of clothing and accessories to make sure your pet looks fabulous. Her selection includes fashionable collars with trendy prints, chic bows, and real Swarovski crystals. She also offers a collection of elegant dresses, classy coats, and stylish harnesses. Whether your pet prefers understated elegance, or fashion-forward trends, you are guaranteed to find something that will turn heads.
https://susanlancidesigns.com

This is just a sampling of some of the many products here at SuperZoo. To see more fun pet products and some of the amazing animal celebs at SuperZoo be sure to check out my Instagram page @drruthmacpete

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Pet Tips

How You Can Help Feral Cats

August 9, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Whenever I see a feral cat, I see the wild ancestral roots hiding just beneath the surface of every domestic cat. Even the wildest feral cat can be just one generation away from being someone’s pampered household pet. Feral cats are victims of their own success as efficient hunters and prolific breeders. Although their exact numbers are unknown, the Humane Society of the United States estimates that there are about 50 million feral cats in this country. The problem is not unique to the United States. You are just as likely to find them on the beaches of Phuket or the ruins in Rome as you are in your own neighborhood. If you look carefully, you will see them everywhere. You can see them basking in the sun, hiding under cars, or rummaging through garbage cans in alleys. While feral cats can survive without human assistance, they live a harsh existence and die prematurely from illness, injury, or starvation.

So what is being done to help feral cats?
Unfortunately there is no simple solution. In the United States, the majority of programs are trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs run by animal shelters and municipalities. These programs help control the feral cat population by humanely trapping feral cats, neutering or spaying them, and then returning them to their environment or moving them to a designated location. Some programs will even rent or loan humane traps to the public in order to help trap and neuter or spay feral cats in their neighborhoods. How effective are they? Studies have shown that these programs can reduce the overall feral cat population significantly and humanely.

How can you help?
Make sure your own cats are spayed and neutered so they are not contributing to the feral cat problem. Cats are prolific breeders and even someone’s pampered pet can result in another generation of feral cats. Besides being responsible with your own pets, support TNR programs financially. Monetary donations will not only fund operations to keep the program running, but also awareness campaigns to educate the public about the feral cat problem and how they can help. These programs also depend on volunteer support and you can help by volunteering your time with the trap-neuter-release programs or their educational campaigns.

The problem of pet overpopulation is worldwide. While there is no simple solution, the first step towards tackling the global problem should start in your own backyard.

For more information about TNR programs check out: https://trapkinghumane.org

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Pet Tips

Choosing the Right Dog for your Family

July 30, 2019
by ruthmacpete

Picking the right dog is more important than you may think. If you go to any shelter you will see countless numbers of homeless dogs that ended up there because they were a bad fit for their family or because their family did not anticipate the level of responsibility or financial impact a dog would have.

The decision to get a dog should not be taken lightly. Dogs are a significant investment of your time, money and emotions.

Before you decide to get a dog you need to ask yourself these questions…

Do you have time for a dog?

Do you have enough room or space for a dog?

Can you afford to properly care for them?

Are you prepared to take on this responsibility for the life of the dog- which could be 10-14 years?

If you answered yes to all of these questions then the next step is to decide which type of dog is best for you. In order to find the right dog I recommend people think about these things; size, coat, and activity level and temperment.

First it is imprtant to think about size. Would a big dog or small dog fit best in your family? Big dogs need more space, must have training and eat more. Can you afford to feed a 150# Great Dane? Do you have kids or elderly people that may not tolerate a big dog jumping on them? These are some of the things you need to consider when deciding what type of dog would be best for your family. Remember if you get a puppy they won’t always be small so again think about size before you decide.

Once you decide the best size dog for your family think about the coat or hair you prefer. This may sound like it’s a beauty preference but really this is about grooming and maintance. Long hair dogs need to be brushed regularly. Many dogs like Scotties or Poodles need regular professional grooming. Are you willing to do this? Or would a short hair, lower maintance dog be better for you? Keep in mind grooming doesn’t just involve hair brushing-many dogs require regular ear cleaning like Basset Hounds, Cocker spaniels and Bulldogs like Annie. Bulldogs also require regular facial fold cleaning to prevent skin infections. If you can’t imagine doing this- a Bulldog might not be the best dog for you.

Lastly people need to think about the activity level of the type of dog. That means you have to look at your own life. Are you a couch potato? Or a marathon runner? It helps to pick a dog that matches your level of activity. Weimeraners and Vislas are high energy dogs that love to run and need to run. They do best in active families. While Bulldogs are not able to exercise much and are also heat intolerant. Bulldogs are pretty sedantary dogs that tend to be happy just hanging out with the family. If you pick an active dog and don’t exercise them you are waiting for a disaster. Bored dogs become frustrated and often get destructive an dchew up furniture, shoes, etc. Likewise you don’t want to pick a Bulldog if you want a running partner.

Take the time to think about your lifestyle and don’t get a dog impulsively. Do your homework and researchg breeds so that when you look for a dog at the shelter you know what mixes to meet.. There are several books and websites that can help people look up breed traits and give questionnaires to help them find the perfect match!

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