As a pet owner, regular mine clearing in your garden is a daily task. Apart from being a straightforward, if yucky, hygiene chore, this poop patrol mission can play a part in monitoring your pet’s health.

As the saying goes, we are what we eat. In the case of our pets it could be expanded, “They are known by their food and how they have pooed”.

As pet owners, we often focus on our furry friends’ diet, exercise, and overall well-being. However, one of the most telling indicators of a pet’s health is often overlooked: their droppings. By following the “Four Cs” – Colour, Consistency, Coating, and Contents – you can gain valuable insights into your pet’s digestive health.

We’ve compiled a summary of the most common conditions with triage codes ranging from “normal” and “take remedial action” to “urgent attention needed”.

1. Colour

The colour of your pet’s stool can reveal a lot about their internal health. Normal stool colour varies depending on diet but is typically brown. Deviations from this can indicate various health issues:

– Black or tarry stools (Code Red): May indicate internal bleeding in the stomach or small intestines.
Action: Seek immediate veterinary attention.

– Red streaks (Code Red): Could be a sign of bleeding in the lower digestive tract.
Action: Consult your veterinarian promptly.

– Yellow or gray stools (Code Amber): Might suggest liver or pancreas issues.
Action: Schedule a vet visit for further diagnostics.

– White or chalky stools (Code Amber): Often seen in pets on a high-calcium diet or those with bile duct obstructions.
Action: Review diet and consult your vet for possible bile duct issues.

2. Consistency

The consistency of your pet’s stool is another critical factor. Healthy stools are usually firm and moist. The consistency can be categorised as follows:

– Hard and dry (Code Amber): May indicate dehydration or dietary issues.
Action: Ensure your pet has access to fresh water and consider dietary adjustments.

– Soft or mushy (Code Green): Could suggest dietary indiscretion or mild gastrointestinal upset.
Action: Monitor diet and consider a bland diet temporarily.

– Liquid or diarrhea (Code Red): Often a sign of infection, parasites, or more severe digestive issues.
Action: Seek veterinary care immediately.

 3. Coating

A healthy stool should not have any coating. If you notice a slimy layer or mucus, it could indicate inflammation in the colon or other gastrointestinal issues:

– Mucus (Code Amber): Often a sign of colitis or other inflammatory conditions.
Action: Consult your vet for appropriate treatment.

– Greasy coating (Code Amber): Might suggest malabsorption issues, often related to the pancreas.
Action: Schedule a vet visit for further evaluation.

4. Contents

Examining the contents of your pet’s stool can provide additional clues about their health:

– Undigested food (Code Green): May indicate a problem with digestion or absorption.
Action: Monitor diet and consult your vet if it persists.

– Foreign objects (Code Amber): Could suggest that your pet is ingesting non-food items, which might be harmful.
Action: Ensure your pet’s environment is safe and consult your vet if needed.

– Parasites (Code Red): Presence of worms or eggs can be detected through fecal testing and indicates a need for deworming.
Action: Seek veterinary treatment for deworming.

Conclusion

Regularly monitoring your pet’s droppings using the Four Cs can help you catch potential health issues early. If you notice any abnormalities, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for further evaluation and appropriate treatment. Remember, a simple poop check can go a long way in ensuring your pet’s health and happiness.

When a dog experiences stress, it triggers a physiological and behavioural response known as the “fight-or-flight” reaction. This reaction helps them deal with perceived threats or challenges, but if prolonged or frequent, it can have negative consequences on their physical and mental well-being.

Here’s what happens when a dog gets stressed:

Physiological changes:

• Increased heart rate and breathing: This prepares the body for action.
• Dilated pupils: This improves eyesight in potentially dangerous situations.
• Elevated blood pressure and release of stress hormones: This increases energy and alertness.
• Digestive changes: Appetite may decrease, or digestive upset might occur.
• Muscle tension and panting: This prepares the body for physical exertion.

Behavioural changes:

• Pacing, fidgeting, and restlessness: Unable to relax due to increased arousal.
• Whining, barking, or vocalisations: Expressing discomfort or anxiety.
• Hiding or seeking attention: Trying to escape the stressful situation or seeking reassurance.
• Licking, excessive grooming, or destructive behaviours: Coping mechanisms to deal with anxiety.
• Aggression or withdrawal: Can occur in extreme cases as a defense mechanism.

Long-term effects of chronic stress:

• Weakened immune system: Making them more susceptible to illness.
• Skin and digestive problems: Stress can manifest in physical symptoms.
• Anxiety and behavioural issues: Fearfulness, phobias, or aggression can develop.
• Changes in appetite and sleep: May eat less or more and have trouble sleeping.

It’s important to recognise the signs of stress in your dog and take steps to manage it.

Here are some tips on keeping your dog stress-free:

Physical and Mental Stimulation:

Regular exercise: Engage in daily walks, runs, or playtime sessions tailored to your dog’s breed and age. Physical activity helps burn energy, prevent boredom, and release endorphins, which contribute to well-being.

Mental stimulation: Keep your dog’s mind engaged with puzzle toys, chew toys, scent work activities, or training sessions. This helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.

Social interaction: Schedule playtime with other dogs (if your dog enjoys it) or ensure they have positive interactions with people outside the household.

Predictable Routine and Safe Space:

Maintain a consistent routine: Set regular feeding times, walks, and playtime schedules. This helps dogs feel secure and predictable.

Provide a safe space: Give your dog a designated area, like a crate or bed, where they can retreat and feel safe during stressful situations.

Minimise loud noises: Loud noises can be startling for dogs. Turn down the TV, close windows during fireworks, and create a calmer environment when possible.

Positive Reinforcement and Management:

Positive training: Use positive reinforcement methods like praise, treats, and clicker training to encourage good behaviour and build trust.

Desensitisation and counterconditioning: If your dog has specific triggers for stress, gradually expose them to the triggers in a positive way to help them overcome their fear.

Body language awareness: Pay attention to your dog’s body language (e.g., tucked tail, flattened ears) and avoid situations that might cause them stress.

Additional Tips:

Dietary considerations: Talk to your veterinarian about ensuring your dog’s diet provides proper nutrients that can help manage stress.

Veterinary care: Regular checkups are crucial to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to stress.

Consider calming aids: Natural calming aids like calming chews or pheromone diffusers can sometimes be helpful, but consult your veterinarian first.

Welcoming your newly adopted fur bundle into the home is always an exciting moment. While caring for a new puppy or kitten is a big responsibility, it’s also a lot of fun.

Here are some essential tips on doing the best for your new furry friend:

1. Provide a safe and comfortable home:

Choose a quiet and secure place for your pet to sleep and rest.

Make sure your home is hazard-free by placing poisonous plants, electrical cords, and objects that could be swallowed out of reach.

These are some ideas for providing your new puppy or kitten with excellent housing:

• A crate makes a great den for your puppy or kitten offering a safe and secure place to sleep and rest. Potty training can also be started here.
• A playpen is a safe and enclosed space to play. These are helpful if your home is large or for keeping your pet away from certain areas.
• Cat trees provide kittens with climbing, scratching, and perching spots while helping to prevent them from tearing up the furniture.
• Toys to keep them entertained because puppies and kittens need plenty of distractions.
• A harness and leash are essential for training your puppy.
• Trim your puppy or kitten’s nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
• A dog bed is a comfortable place to sleep and rest.
• Every cat owner should have a litter box. Keep it in a quiet and easily accessible place.
• Food and water bowls should be made of a strong material that is easy to clean.

2. Feeding schedules:

Feed your puppy or kitten appropriate, high-quality food suited to their age and breed.

• A feeding routine is essential for healthy growth and development. Puppies generally need feeding more frequently than kittens, and smaller breeds eat more often than larger breeds.
• Your veterinarian will help you set a suitable feeding schedule for your kitten or puppy according to their breed, age, and activity level.
• Select regular mealtimes and adhere to them. This helps your puppy or kitten set their inner feeding clock which reduces begging or untimely hunger.
• Fresh water must always be available.
• A distraction-free area will help set your pet’s feeding routine and prevent messy eating habits.
• Always measure the food portions and provide the correct amount. Overfeeding and underfeeding can cause obesity or malnutrition.
• Select high-quality puppy or kitten food formulated for their age and developmental stage. Your veterinarian will give specific recommendations based on an individual pet’s needs.
• Keep an eye on your puppy or kitten’s eating habits to make sure they remain regular. Any drastic changes should be reported to your veterinarian.
• Free-choice feeding is convenient but can lead to overfeeding and obesity. A structured feeding schedule with set mealtimes is the best option.
• Changing from “baby” food to adult food should happen gradually over a week or two to avoid upsetting their digestion.
• Giving your puppy or kitten table scraps or human food is a no-no. Such meals can disrupt a pet’s digestive system and often lead to unhealthy eating habits.

3. Housetraining should begin early:

Immediately after waking up, puppies should be taken outside to relieve themselves. This also applies to after mealtimes and before bedtime.

Instinctively hygienic, kittens will use a litter box, but you may need to show them where it is and how to use it.

Praise and treat your puppy or kitten when they follow the toilet rules you are teaching them.

4. Socialising your pet:

Expose your puppy or kitten to different people, animals, and experiences from a young age to help them become well-socialised.

Enroll your puppy in obedience classes to learn basic commands.

5. Veterinary services

Your puppy or kitten should see the veterinarian for a check-up as soon as possible after adoption.

Always keep up to date on pet vaccinations.

Unless you intend to breed your pet, have them spayed or neutered.

Additional tips

• Provide plenty of exercise
• Show your pet love and attention
• Be patient
• Don’t punish but use positive reinforcement
• Be consistent with your rules and expectations

Most important of all: Enjoy sharing a lifetime of memories with your new furry friend.

Pugs are a popular breed of dog that have captured the hearts of many due to their playful and affectionate nature. However, their adorable looks and lovable personalities come with several health risks that owners should take into account.

In this article, we touch on their history, common ailments, and what owners can do to keep their pets happy, healthy, and in great condition.

THE HISTORY OF PUGS

Pugs have a long and fascinating history. Originating in China, they were named Lo Sze and bred as lapdogs and companions to Chinese nobility. Making the long journey west on merchant ships and along the fabulous Silk Road, the earliest Pug ancestors were brought to Europe by traders in the 16th century, where they became popular among the aristocracy. In the 19th century, Pugs were imported into England, where they quickly became a favoured breed. Some think their English name derives from the word “pugilist” meaning a fist fighter or boxer. Their flat faces and squashed noses seem to bear out this theory. Today, Pugs are beloved all over the world for their unique appearance and friendly personalities.

BREEDING PRACTICES

In an effort to develop the Pug’s distinctive features, some owners engaged in overly selective breeding. Unfortunately, this has made them susceptible to several ailments. Being a brachycephalic breed, they have short wrinkly snouts and flat faces, features that can cause a number of health issues that are common among these quaint little dogs. Additionally, their stout, barrel-shaped bodies are prone to obesity. Their very popularity led to the practices that exacerbated these risks. Many veterinary health authorities are warning that aging Pugs will become subject to serious health crises.

HEALTH RISKS

Pugs are prone to several health problems that can significantly impact their quality of life. Some of the most common include respiratory difficulties, eye diseases, dental issues, and skin problems. The respiratory complaints occur due to their short snouts and flat faces. The narrowed nasal passages cause difficulty breathing also known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Along with Boxers, Bulldogs, and other short-snouted breeds, Pugs are more susceptible to seizures than dogs with unobstructed airways. This is thought to occur since insufficient oxygen reaches the brain, especially when they are over-excited or over-exercised. Because of the restricted airflow, they also cannot cool themselves effectively which leads to overheating. Their protuberant eyes can easily be damaged and exposed to afflictions such as dry eye, corneal ulcers, and cherry eye. All signs of eye infections should be monitored and treated to avoid them becoming serious. Dental decay is common due to the Pug’s small jaw and crowded teeth. Skin allergies and disorders such as bacterial infections that start in the facial folds and wrinkles occur frequently.

CARING FOR YOUR PUG

As an owner, there are several steps you can take to help prevent or manage your Pug’s health challenges.

First and foremost, choose your pet from a reputable breeder who prioritises the health of their dogs. Be sure to provide your Pug with enough but not too much exercise and a healthy diet to help prevent obesity, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Their faces should be kept clean with particular attention to ensuring that their cute wrinkles remain germ-free. To keep your pet safe from overheating, keep them inside during the hottest parts of the day and avoid strenuous exercise during very warm weather. Provide easy access to cool, clean water and keep these enthusiastic eaters at a healthy weight. Regular veterinary checkups are also important to catch any maladies early and ensure that your Pug is up to date on vaccinations.

Finally, be mindful of your Pug’s unique needs and limitations. They are adorable companions and understanding their history and potential health risks empowers owners to provide them with the best care. By being proactive and knowledgeable, you can ensure the well-being and longevity of your beloved furry friend.

Separation anxiety is a prevalent behavioural issue that affects many dogs when they are apart from their owners. It can be upsetting for both the dog and the owner, but with the right knowledge and training, it can be effectively managed.

In this article, we will delve into separation anxiety in dogs, its causes, symptoms, and possible solutions.

UNDERSTANDING AND TACKLING THE PROBLEM

Separation anxiety arises when dogs become overly anxious or distressed when left alone. It can present itself in various forms, including excessive barking, destructive chewing, house soiling, pacing, and attempts to escape. While it is normal for dogs to miss their owners when they are away, separation anxiety exceeds typical longing and can result in severe emotional distress.

Several factors can lead to this condition in dogs. A common cause is inadequate socialisation during puppyhood, which can result in an excessively strong attachment to their owners. Significant life changes, such as moving to a new home or the loss of a family member, can also trigger separation anxiety. Dogs that have experienced abandonment or trauma in the past may be more susceptible to developing separation anxiety.

It is crucial to recognise the symptoms of separation anxiety for early intervention. If your dog exhibits excessive distress or destructive behaviour whenever you leave, it is probably suffering from separation anxiety. Other signs may include restlessness, panting, salivating, and refusal to eat. It is important to rule out any underlying medical conditions by consulting a veterinarian before addressing the behavioural issue.

MANAGEMENT

Managing separation anxiety requires a patient and systematic approach. Begin by gradually desensitizing your dog to your departures. Practice short periods of separation and gradually increase the duration over time. Provide your dog with a safe and comfortable space, such as a crate or designated room, where they can retreat and feel secure. Leave them with stimulating toys or treats to keep them occupied and distracted.

Counterconditioning can also help alleviate separation anxiety. Associate your departure cues, such as picking up keys or putting on shoes, with positive experiences like treats or playtime. This will help your dog form a positive association with your departures and reduce anxiety. Engaging your dog in regular exercise and mental stimulation can also help expend energy and reduce stress.

In severe cases, professional help or even medication may be necessary. A certified dog trainer or behaviourist can develop a customised behaviour modification plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs. They may recommend techniques such as desensitization and counterconditioning. A veterinarian must be consulted in extreme cases that require anti-stress medication.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Remember, addressing separation anxiety takes time and consistency. It is essential to be patient and understanding with your dog throughout the process. Avoid punishment or scolding, as it can worsen anxiety and reinforce negative behaviour.

In conclusion, separation anxiety is a challenging issue that many dogs and their owners face. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing appropriate training techniques, separation anxiety can be effectively managed. With love, patience, and a structured approach, you can help your furry friend overcome their anxiety and develop a sense of security even when you are not by their side.

Small dog breeds and overweight dogs seem to be particularly prone to anal gland problems, but it can affect larger breeds as well.

WHAT ARE THE ANAL GLANDS?

Located on either side of the rectum are two intermuscular collapsible bodies known as the anal sacs or anal glands. The walls of the sacs are lined with tiny sebaceous glands that produce tiny quantities of potently foul-smelling (to us) exudate. The anal sacs are essential to your doggies’ social interactions because they emit scent signals that are complex and, for other dogs, rich in information about their health, condition, sex, and seniority. Knowing this helps the sniffer establish an instant, if temporary, familiarity with the sniffee. The importance of this is that it regulates dogs’ social behaviour and is critical to how they operate in doggy world.

ANAL GLAND DYSFUNCTIONS

Healthy anal glands are naturally emptied every time your dog makes a pooh. The pressure on the glands expresses the small amount of sac contents without any fuss.

Anal gland ducts can become blocked either because they are narrow (especially in small breeds) or because impaction has occurred due to weak bowel movements producing small stools that cannot exert sufficient pressure to clear the glands. Overweight, sedentary small dogs and chronically constipated larger ones are the most likely candidates to suffer from blockages.

INDICATORS

If you notice your pup straining to excrete or constantly licking and scraping its hindquarters on the ground,  it could be in discomfort from inflamed anal glands. On inspection, you’ll find these swollen and probably tender to the touch. (Need I mention that latex gloves are a good idea?)

If you are concerned that this may be the case, what should be done?

TREATMENT

The treatments fall into two categories depending on severity. The first is to apply sufficient manual pressure to clear the ducts followed by flushing with an antiseptic. This should usually be sufficient to clear up milder cases. The second is to follow up with antibiotic treatment for the dog if an infection has taken hold.

If dealing with this problem yourself is too much to stomach, many dog groomers will do the job or, as a last resort, your veterinarian’s assistant will be competent to conduct the operation, especially if the problem has progressed to stage two and there is an infection.

DON’T IGNORE THE SIGNS!

The consequences of blockages that get cleared up quickly are often restricted to mild discomfort. Unfortunately, if the blockage isn’t cleared naturally and an aggravated condition arises, veterinary treatment is essential. Any sign of persistent swelling and pus appearing at the gland openings should be regarded as medically dangerous and treated accordingly.

PREVENTION

Simply put, bulkier, more solid stools are the answer. Making sure that your dog’s diet is rich in fibre is the simplest, cheapest, and healthiest option. This, along with plenty of exercise and weight management should ensure that your beloved pooch never experiences the discomfort and indignity of having their smell signalling equipage not working properly.

Making sure that your beloved pet is resistant to infections, toxins, pathogens, and other causes of illness starts by knowing what the immune system is and what it does.

The immune system consists of the network of organs, cells, tissues, and the substances they produce that keep the body robust against diseases and other ailments. Included in this complex set of defences are the skin, tonsils, lymph system, white blood cells, bone marrow, thymus, and spleen. Each of these constituents has been the subject of voluminous research and libraries of writing, giving us far too much information to be repeated here. It’s sufficient to say that the numbers of interlinkages, interactions, and co-dependencies in this network vastly exceed the sum of the parts.

While all mammals have similar immune systems, the subtle differences in how they function, e.g., in dogs and cats, are thought to underlie the variety of autoimmune, allergic, and infectious conditions that affect our pets. To illustrate; imagine individuals’ immune systems as a point on two intersecting lines. The one being the horizontal axis with genetics at one end and environment at the other. Crossing that line is the vertical axis with overactive at the top end and underactive at the bottom. The ideal is that the lines should cross precisely in the middle, meaning that all factors are in equilibrium and the system is operating optimally. Unfortunately, this is seldom the case, and the reason is easily understood by imagining a pet with great genetics but that is malnourished due to overfeeding.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANINE AND FELINE IMMUNITY

Dogs’ and cats’ evolutionary adaptations differ because dogs have been part of human domestic life for 15 thousand years or more and cats for somewhat less. Other factors, such as the intentional breeding of dogs, saw them lose the genetic diversity of cats. This has allowed our feline friends to have greater resistance to certain types of mite – , tick – , and flea – transmitted infections.

NUTRITION, GUT HEALTH, AND A STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM

The immune function is related to the gut microbiome and canine and feline microbial populations show variations, which impacts on the ability to resist specific bacteria, viruses, and toxins. A suitable diet containing sufficient amounts of gut-friendly nutrients will maintain healthy levels of microflora. Sometimes it could be necessary to add supplementary amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, prebiotics and probiotics. Your veterinarian will be the best source of advice on which are required.

The study of nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics has opened up research into how the body responds to bioactive foods and other nutrients. This research has emerged as a potential means of tailoring diets according to pets’ genetic profiles. The happy outcome of such dietetics would be to keep the immune system functioning as well as possible.

IMMUNE SYSTEM DISEASES

Many disorders are caused by the immune system being overactive. These are commonly known as autoimmune diseases because the body’s defensive system cannot distinguish between its own cells and the attacking antigens. An example would be canine hypothyroidism of which 95% of cases are caused by the immune system damaging the dog’s thyroid gland. When the classic symptoms appear, the first reaction may be to add iodine supplements to the diet, but the real cause that requires treatment would be the malfunctioning autoimmune system.

Certain autoimmune diseases are commonly found in cats. One of these, haemolytic anaemia, reduces the lifetime of red blood cells. This leads to a shortage of haemoglobin, the protein compound that carries oxygen to all the cells in the body and removes carbon dioxide. Symptoms would include shortness of breath and lethargy, with the gums and inner eyelids being very pale.

Other disorders are due to the immune system being too weak or underactive to provide defences against harmful pathogens. This condition could lead to a huge variety of commonly known ailments.

As caring owners, knowing which sicknesses are actually symptoms of underlying immune system disorders and keeping our pet’s immune systems strong should be among our highest priorities.