Feline Heartworm Disease

by Christopher Suckow

Cats are very different from dogs when it comes to heartworm disease. Not only do they differ in their susceptibility to the disease, but also in how the disease affects them and how the disease is diagnosed.

There are significant differences between feline heartworm disease and canine heartworm disease. Cats are more resistant to the disease, and typically when they do become infected have a smaller burden of worms in their bodies. But due to their smaller size, even a few worms can be considered a heavy infection for a cat. Even one worm can cause illness or death in a cat.

Heartworms are caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis. Cats and dogs become infected with this parasite through mosquitoes that can carry this parasite. When a mosquito bites the cat, the parasite enters the bloodstream and grows into an adult worm several centimeters long. These worms tend to accumulate around the vessels of the heart and lungs and cause inflammation of these vessels. In severe cases they can cause a thromboembolism which results in an acute death.

Since heartworm disease in cats happens less often than in dogs, cats with heartworm disease are often misdiagnosed. Cats with heartworms are often wrongly diagnosed as having asthma or allergic bronchitis. Also, many cats can have heartworms and not appear ill.

The true percentage of heartworm positive cats is hard to determine due to diagnostic limitations. In dogs an antigen test is the "gold standard" in diagnosing heartworm disease and it is a very accurate test. Unfortunately in cats these tests are not as accurate. In cats several tests must be used together to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. These tests can include serology, x-rays, and echocardiographs.

Cats that are positive for heartworm disease have many treatment options, but they all have risk associated with them. In mild cases an anti-inflammatory like prednisone may be used. This drug helps support cats by reducing the inflammation of affected vessels. For cats showing severe clinical signs, more extensive treatment and hospitalization are needed. Surgery is also an option to physically remove any worms.

There are many medications on the market to help prevent your cat from getting heartworm disease. Monthly preventatives are an option for cats living in areas where heartworm disease is endemic. Even indoor cats may be at risk if windows are left open. Year-round preventative is increasingly being recommended by more veterinarians. Kittens as young as eight weeks can be started on preventatives.

The most common products used for cats include Interceptor, Heartgard, and Revolution. Interceptor and Heartgard are given orally as chewable medication. Revolution is a topical medication that is applied to the hair over the shoulders. At a minimum the medication should be started within 30 days of heartworm transmission season, and continued until at least 30 days after it ends. In most places this means starting the medication in spring and continuing through the fall.

If you live in an endemic area of heartworm disease, be sure to keep your cat on preventative. Talking to your veterinarian is the best source of advice about the prevalence of heartworm in your area.

On The Road With Your Dog

A lot of dogs like go on adventures, which makes travel attractive for them. This is their natural hunting instincts making them want to meet new people and explore new places. However, it may pose as a problem since taking a dog along during your travels may be inconvenient. Quite a few people are frightened of dogs and the mess that dogs make while you're traveling can be very troublesome. It should also be noted that many lodgings and transportation services don't cater to pets such as dogs and cats.

Having your pet watched over by a professional pet handler may be needed to take care of your dog during the trip. You also have the option of having your pet stay with a managed kennel. When checking around for a place for your dog to live while you're away, make sure it is comfortable and clean. The dogs staying there should also look content and well-taken care of. A few of these dog kennels allow for you to provide your dog's own sleeping blanket, toy and his favorite foods for while you're away. Make sure, though, that your dog has had its immunization since it is a regular requirement for your dog's stay in such places.

Though, if you really insist on your pet's company when traveling, here are a few tips:

- A clean bill of health from your veterinarian. Your vet should also be able to provide you a certificate for this.

- Buy a sturdy dog carrier. This is a must since you'd rather not lose your pet en route to your destination. A few airlines have dog carriers available for sale though they can be quite expensive. Also, remember that some airlines prefer having your pet in the compartment for luggage . If you really can't part with your beloved, get a reservation from an airline that allows pets to remain with you during the flight.

- Dogs need good ventilation to keep them cool. Try to get air-conditioned cars when traveling cross-country. This is also true if you are traveling in trains.

- Don't let your dog hang his head out the window while the car is moving. It may be tempting to let your pet play around, but the risks of falling out or getting hit are still there.

- Leaving your dog inside the car or under the sun is risky. Heat stroke is a serious danger to your pet and can even be fatal.

- Never leave your dog unattended, especially when he is in his carrier. He may get stolen or kidnapped. This also goes for when he's wandering around. Sometimes, pets can be too adventurous and may end up in trouble, or worse, getting you in trouble.

- Fast pulse, rapid panting, red eyes and gums, excessive slobbering, feverish temperature or vomiting, means that your dog needs to see a vet quickly. Have cool towels placed on your dog and get to the closest pet clinic as soon as possible.

- Some countries have specific rules about pet travel. Try to familiarize yourself with them and try to follow them to avoid legal troubles later.

- A certificate for rabies vaccination and a notarized local language certificate from the closest embassy or consulate is sometimes required, so get one just in case. Better safe than sorry.

- In preparing for a long trip on the road, ready identification for your pet. A collar with the dog's name, your name and a handy contact number can save you from a lot of trouble.

- First-aid kits for your dog can be easily fixed up. Remember that some emergencies are special to dogs. A flea or tick powder is a good addition to this.

- Have a ready supply of your pet's favorite doggy treats during the trip. Make sure to bring more than enough to last the entire trip to be safe.

- Pack the essentials: clean water, dishes, favorite dog toys, leash, brush, plastic bags and towels, anything than can help your dog stay happy during the trip.

- A dog should be given the chance to answer the call of nature every two to three hours so it won't make any embarrassing messes.

Hopefully, these tips can help you have a better time with travelling with your dog. Bon voyage!

How to Pet-Proof Your Holidays

The "end of the year" holidays can present some particular hazards to the health of your pet, and consequently to your peace of mind. Here are some ideas that have worked for us to make this time a happy one for all.

Make sure you check your vet's holiday hours and emergency contacts and have the information easily accessible.

Think before you decorate with plants. Cats, dogs and birds will all nibble household plants, and many, including mistletoe and some poinsettias, can make your pet very ill. Make sure your holiday greenery (and "red-ery") is out of your pet's reach.

The same is true if you have a Christmas tree. You should put only unbreakable decorations at the bottom of your tree, so there is no danger of your cat's batting a glass ball and breaking it, or the pup chewing your grandmother's antique bubble lights.

How about some kitty baubles or doggie toys on the lower branches instead? Or, do what we did when we had both pets and little ones. We put the tree and gifts into a playpen. That may not stop Kitty, but at least the tree can't fall down as easily when she climbs it.

Another oft-forgotten item: if you have a live tree in water, wrap the base so your pets can't decide to take a drink of that water, and keep the birds away from the tree. Many modern live trees have been sprayed with chemicals that may be toxic to your little friends.

Be very, very careful about candles. Your cat or bird may be enticed by the flicker of the flame, and may singe his whiskers or worse. Place glass "hurricane lanterns" or other attractive covers over candles to protect your home and your pets.

Think ahead to New Years Eve, and plan how to keep your pets from becoming frightened by the traditional firecrackers and other noisy merriment. Some dogs may be severely traumatized by fireworks, be sure to leave them inside if you go out to celebrate.

Pets, especially cats, may be stressed by the changes in household routine during the holidays, especially if you are stressed yourself. Some cats and dogs respond to stress by becoming hyper or hysterical, and some simply retreat. Plan to spend some special time with your pets to calm yourself and reassure them during this period, and if your pet is especially upset with strangers visiting, prepare a "refuge" he can go to and escape the "maddening crowd."

To "wrap this up," have a "Meowry" Christmas, and a "Hoppy" New Year!

The Rewards Of Training Your Dog

by Christopher Suckow

A well trained dog is a joy to be around. Beyond being well socialized, trained dogs are less likely to jump up on people, and are less at risk of biting someone. They also tend to stay calm in distracting environments.

Also, well trained dogs are more likely to stay with the same owner, as opposed to being abandoned to the pound. One research report from the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 96% of shelter dogs had never had any training.

Training your dog helps to teach them boundaries, thus making them more comfortable around humans. There are many different dog training programs and many professional dog trainers. However, just because someone has a business card doesn't mean they are a qualified trainer.

To find a good trainer, ask your friends and family if they know a good trainer. Also, while walking your dog at the dog park, ask other dog owners who they recommend. Once you have found a trainer, ask them what method of training they teach. There have been dozens of different training methods for dogs that have been in and out of fashion over the years. Ask the trainer what method they use, why they use it, and what the benefits of it are. Also ask for references.

Whether you train your dog yourself or find a professional, teaching your dog commands and socializing it is important. Areas to cover in training include:

1. Socializing to strangers: This is easy to accomplish while out walking your dog around the neighborhood and introducing them to people.

2. Socializing with other dogs: You can do this at dog parks, or even better in a dog training class.

3. Leash walking at a steady pace: You can start this training as soon as you get your new dog.

4. Crate training: This is important, especially to build up a tolerance to stay in a kennel environment for several hours.

5. The sit command: This is usually the first command new owners teach their dog.

6. The down/stand command: These commands help develop boundaries for the dog.

7. The stay command: This command is important for your dog to master, especially in an environment with a lot of distractions.

There are many benefits to having a well trained dog. But it doesn't necessarily mean the dog will not develop behavioral problems down the road, like separation anxiety. Simply put a well trained dog is a joy to be around and strengthens the human-animal bond.




Realted articles about pets training :

• Dog Training Tips


• Potty Training Your Puppy!


• The Rewards Of Training Your Dog


• Training Your Dog to Sit


• Basic Puppy Training


• Obedience Training for Your Dog


• Dog Training


• The Happy Puppy Owner's Guide To Housetraining Your Puppy


• Training Your Cat To Use The Toilet


• Bribery and Cat Training


• A Cat Behavior Training Crash Course


• Cat Care While Training


• Cat Litter Training


• Cat Potty Training


• Cat Toilet Training Tips


• Cat Training Aids


• Clicker Training Cats


• How to Correct a Cat in Cat Training


• Kitten Training Tips


• Training Your Cat to Coexist with Your Dog


• Cat Health : Litter Training


• Cat Training devices


• Cat Training Products


• Cat Training Requirements


• Cat Training Supplies


• Cat Training Tips for Different Breeds


• Reinforcing Cat Training


• Training Your Cats to Use The Scratch Post


• Treats While Training Your Cat

Seven Steps to a Happier Pet

The responsibility that comes with having a pet is not to be taken lightly. It is up to you to make sure that your pet's needs are met and that you have done everything in your power to make your pet's life a happy one.

Here are seven easy things you can do to make sure that your pet has the best life possible:

1. Make sure your pet has it's ID tag. The ID tag tells where your pet lives and of any medical conditions your pet may have. If your pet wanders off, it may be the only thing standing between your pet and the pound!

2. Prevent behavioral problems by enrolling your pet in a behavior training class before it acquires any bad habits. This tip will make both you and your pet happier for the entire lifetime you are together!

3. Get your pet a check up from a vet at least once a year. Some behavior problems can be health related and taking your pet to the vet on a regular basis will help you with tip # 2.

4. Prepare for disasters. Your pet cannot read the escape plan you have made for your family in case of a flood, fire, or other disaster! Make sure your escape plans include someone in your family having the job of securing or gathering up and removing your pet(s) from your home and taking them to a safe place.

5. Plan for the future. Who will take care of your pet if something happens to you? Make sure you have a "godparent" for all of your pets. This includes short term care as well if you are in the hospital, incapacitated, or out of town.

6. Learn to avoid dog bites by training your dog and your family. This is especially important for children. Every year 4.7 million children are bitten by dogs. 80% are by dogs they know and have been in daily contact with! See http://nodogbites.org for more information and how to videos. (The site is part of The Humane Society web site.)

7. And last but not least - Have a heart - Be smart - and have your pet neutered or spayed as soon as they are old enough. If you can't afford to have your pet spayed or neutered go to these two web sites to see their requirements for getting a voucher to pay to have the procedure done. http://spayusa.org or http://pets911.com. Both sites will help you pay for the vet bill to get your pet spayed or neutered.

There you have it!

Seven simple steps to keep you and your pets happy for a long, long time.

How To Stop a Puppy Jumping Up

The main reason you're likely to have a problem with a puppy jumping up you is that you actively encourage it yourself!

Go on, admit it, it gives you a lovely, warm feeling when your new puppy excitedly jumps up and makes a fuss of you, doesn't it?

And what do you do in return? That's right, you make a fuss of him right back, don't you?

The signal you give him by doing this is that he's pleasing you and winning your approval. And you'll perhaps not be surprised to learn that this is exactly what your puppy is looking for and just reinforces the behavior.

Pushing him off isn't an answer, because he'll see this as a game. Remember, play fighting is a part of a puppy's natural instinct and learning process.

Shouting at him isn't an answer, because he interprets that as getting attention, and that's just what he wants.

What you really need to be doing to break the jumping up habit is the exact opposite of what you actually are doing.

That's right. Ignore your puppy. Completely ignore him. Pay him no attention whatsoever. Yes, I know it's hard but it's the only way you'll ultimately break this antisocial habit.

Ignoring him means no verbal interaction (don't talk to him) and no touching. Turn you back on him and fold your arms to keep them out of his reach.

If your puppy jumps at your back, take a step away from him. If he comes around the front of you, turn your back on him again.

To repeat: don't give him any acknowledgement whilst he is jumping up at you.

As soon as he gets down on all fours and stops jumping at you, go down to his level, make a fuss of him and give him a tidbit.

In other words, reward him for doing what you want him to do, and give him nothing he can construe as a reward when he's doing what you DON'T want him to do.

So, to sum up, you want him to understand that four feet on the ground is what will get your attention, two feet on you will not.

It's also important to make sure that any visitors to your house also understand this drill.

It may seem an impossible task now, but if you're consistent with the above exercise, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly your puppy gets the message that remaining on the floor is what will get attention.

Training Your Dog to Sit

Training your dog to "sit" is probably the first thing you will train your puppy to do. I write puppy because you can start the training as soon as the puppy has settled in his new home. You might think this isn't that important, a dog knows how to sit. Well, I think it is very important. Read on and you will found out why and how to train your dog to sit.

1. This first one is easy. You just start by saying "sit" every time the puppy sits itself. He learns to associate the word sit with the action. This is a tip you can use in all training.

2. Take out his favorite treat and keep it in your hand. Sausage usually works well but remember to cut it in small pieces so the puppy can swallow it fast.

3. Sit down on the floor so you get to the same level as the dog. You are less threatening when you sit. More important is that you are close to the dog so you can reward him faster. More about this soon.

4. Slowly move the treat over your puppy's head. The intention is to get the puppy to smell the treat (he will) and follow it with his nose. He has two options. Either back still standing or sit down. It's easier to sit down.

5 Immediately as he sits you say "sit" and give him the piece of sausage. This is the key factor to all training. The reward has to be exact in the same moment as the dog does the right thing.

6. Praise the dog. Show your joy with your voice as well as with your body language.

7. Repeat these steps 3-5 times. Not more than that though, as it has to be fun! On the other hand you can repeat the steps several times during the day.

8. In the next step you should try these steps while standing up. You can try to see if the dog reacts only to the word "sit" without your hand and the treat. If he sits down you obviously should praise him and if he doesn't don't care. You should never show your disappointment to your dog when you are training.

This is pretty easy for the puppy. In a day or two you will get him to sit with your "sit" command. Now you can try to make him sit down beside you. This is actually a preparation for the heel training. There you want him to sit as soon as you stop walking. If you have thoughts about obedience competitions with your dog you should consider the exact position where he sits and also how fast he sits. That is however off topic in this article.

The next level is to strengthen the word so you get the dog to sit in every situation no matter what's going on around him. This is an ongoing process and you should never stop training. Use every new situation to train him. Make him sit with new people, new dogs and new surroundings.

It's quite easy to train your dog to sit. If you consider not training your dog my advice is, think again. When you start training with your new puppy you get much more than the sitting part The puppy loves to do things with you. He learns to listen to his name. He gets used to training and doing things with you and on your initiative. This all together strengthen your position as the leader, and the puppy feels secure. When the puppy falls asleep in the evening his last thoughts should be: "This is really a great pack!"

Potty Training Your Puppy!

A new puppy is a joyous addition to any home. Who can resist that cute little bundle of lovable furry fun? It would be great if puppies were potty trained and came into our homes without any mess or bother? OK, reality check here.

Just ask any dog owner what the hardest task at hand is, and most will agree, that potty training is high on the list of unpleasant tasks. Actually, potty training is a simple task, requiring merely a little patience and diligence.

First, be mindful of puppies as infant dogs, not children. Dogs are creatures of Habitual Re-enforcement. Start early with the basics, and you will have a well trained and obedient friend for many years.

A sure fire method of potty training, at least in the opinion of a close friend kennel and breeder friend of mine, is to simply catch the puppy in the act of relieving itself. Immediately approach the little guy, pick him up gently but firmly, and tell him "No No" with a firm clear voice. Carry your puppy immediately outside, preferably to a pre designated area, and set him down on his haunches, holding him firmly for a few moments. If he still needs to relieve himself, keep him in that spot and pat and praise him when he's finished. OK! Not so hard, eh?

Guess what, he will do it again. So, make a game out of it, get the kids involved and when he starts to go, repeat the routine, acting immediately and firmly.

Puppies tend to be the center of attention at first, especially with kids, so there is usually someone at hand to scold the puppy in a gentle manner and immediately remove him to the designated site.

This method is a quick and effective method in toilet training any puppy, who, with the right amount of attention and praise, will be toilet trained in no time at all.

It's important to catch the puppy in the act. Coming home and finding the mess a couple of hours later and then getting upset and scolding the puppy will only make your job harder and confuse the puppy. What then, you may wonder? Well, a method that has worked for me is to carry the puppy to the offending deposit, gently but firmly placing his nose into the substance and saying firmly "No No or Bad Bad", you get the drift, and immediately carrying puppy out to the site. This method is not the favored method, but it is effective if done properly.




Realted articles about pets training :

• Dog Training Tips


• Potty Training Your Puppy!


• The Rewards Of Training Your Dog


• Training Your Dog to Sit


• Basic Puppy Training


• Obedience Training for Your Dog


• Dog Training


• The Happy Puppy Owner's Guide To Housetraining Your Puppy


• Training Your Cat To Use The Toilet


• Bribery and Cat Training


• A Cat Behavior Training Crash Course


• Cat Care While Training


• Cat Litter Training


• Cat Potty Training


• Cat Toilet Training Tips


• Cat Training Aids


• Clicker Training Cats


• How to Correct a Cat in Cat Training


• Kitten Training Tips


• Training Your Cat to Coexist with Your Dog


• Cat Health : Litter Training


• Cat Training devices


• Cat Training Products


• Cat Training Requirements


• Cat Training Supplies


• Cat Training Tips for Different Breeds


• Reinforcing Cat Training


• Training Your Cats to Use The Scratch Post


• Treats While Training Your Cat

Are Vaccinations for Pets Really Necessary?

If you have been following the standard guidelines for pet vaccinations you have probably been submitting your cat or dog to a painful shot as well as the anxiety of a visit to the vet every year in an effort to provide them the best health possible.

Vaccinations are a big business. Owners will spend what they are told in order to protect their pets and possibly themselves from contacting scary and deadly diseases such as rabies or distemper.

However, some veterinarians and pet owners are starting to question the wisdom and necessity of annual vaccinations.

Dr. Margie Scherk who runs a veterinary clinic in Vancouver was quoted in a CBC news story as stating that "We have no reason to think a cat's immune system is different than a human's immune system. And we don't get vaccinated every year."

If this is true, why do vets keep warning us to have our dogs and cats vaccinated annually?

Possibly some encourage the visits for the monetary benefits, but it is also a subject that is still fraught with controversy.

Pet owners in general are not anxious to take risks with such deadly diseases and so until conclusive studies are embraced by the medical field they will continue with annual vaccinations.

On the other hand, some studies have shown that certain vaccines, such as the rabies vaccine, may be linked to an increase in tumors in cats.

Other pet owners have had personal experiences which led them to believe that vaccines in puppies may have been responsible for a higher mortality in a healthy litter.

Until these concerns have been researched further, veterinarians take their own stand on vaccinations. Dr. Kruth, who was also interviewed by CBC, believes that owners should make decisions based on the lifestyle of their pet. He explains that hunting dogs are clearly more at risk for picking up some of these diseases than a pet kept indoors in the city.

How can pet owners make an educated decision? There is a lot of information available online, as well as recommendations from Associations and veterinary schools which may reflect the more recent research. However, most individuals will likely require the experience and recommendation of their family pet's doctor or shop around to find one who seems to be implementing newer recommendations. In this case most will suggest a three year gap between most vaccinations. There are still some diseases that may require annual shots or even six month shots such as feline leukemia and kennel cough.

Children and Dogs - a Good Combination ?

It's strange how many tales we hear of dogs attacking children and yet, as a group, parents still choose to bring dogs into their families with little instruction or research.

The truth is, most families with a dog will never deal with the terrible situations we hear about on the news. Dogs love people. Most dogs love children. Children and adults love dogs and it is very doubtful that after thousands of years the connection between canine and humankind will be broken.

What does need to be considered is how to make the best possible environment for your children and dog so that you don't need to worry about unexpected tragedy.

There are many experts with various views, but several points can be generally agreed upon when bringing a dog into a household with children.

First, be sure your very young children (generally pre-school age, under six) are NEVER left unattended with a dog. It is not that your dog will suddenly choose to attack, it is that a dog - like a small child itself - will not always choose the best response when it is unintentionally harmed or threatened in play. You would not leave small children unattended in play, and so, you should not consider your dog to be more mature, but rather equal, to your child in tolerance and behavior.

Second, discourage roughhousing with the dog. Larger dogs can handle more play, such as Newfoundlanders and Old English Sheepdogs, without becoming agitated. Other large breeds may become agitated in play and accidently harm your child. Large breeds may even knock over small children unintentionally. Obviously smaller breeds could feel endangered with rough play and feel compelled to protect themselves from harm. In all cases, roughhousing is discouraged with all breeds.

Third, have a well trained dog when you choose to have a dog as a family pet. While some trainers may feel that the owner is adequately qualified to take on this task, you may wish to consider having your dog professionally trained if possible.

Aggression can happen with even the most loving owners when incorrect training, or improper handling of the dog is not addressed early on. Choosing a fully-trained dog will give you the peace of mind you are looking for when selecting a pet for your children.

There are many other points that are important to consider when buying a dog for your family. By taking the time to understand and learn about dogs before bringing one home, you are more likely to find the life-long friend your children deserve!

The Trials Of Cats In Medieval Times

Cats have been companions to man throughout history, but not always as a beloved companion.

In ancient times, the cat earned it's keep by helping to reduce the population of rats and mice that raided precious grain stores. In ancient Egypt, the cat was adored and celebrated - even mummified along with their human companions.

Medieval man, however, had an entirely different opinion of the cat.

Up until Medieval times, the cat had been elevated to a high status. She was even worshipped in some places, like the German states, where cats were associated with Freya the goddess of love and fertility.

But medieval man was superstitious, believing that witches and demons walked the earth doing evil deeds. The church became a central part of medieval life and in its quest for power, preached that the old ways of worship were evil.

The church took a dislike to the old Freya rites and in 1484, Pope Innocent VIII instructed the Inquisition to burn the Freya heretics as witches - along with their cats.

During the 16th and 17th centuries over 175,000 supposed witches were executed in Germany and France. Along with them went thousands of cats.

Medieval man thought the cat had supernatural powers and any misfortune was blamed on them. Anything from sour milk to an outbreak of disease was blamed on our furry friends. Cats were even thought to be witches in disguise, running in the darkness of night to perform evil acts. Cats were burned, boiled, stoned, flayed, stabbed, gutted, dropped from high places, hanged, impaled and buried alive with an almost religious fervor.

To own a cat during these times was risking ones life as many an old lady was accused of witchcraft simply because she kept a cat as a companion. Throughout these bleak times, however, some did remain loyal to the furry feline.

Millers and Sailors still saw great uses for the cats to rid their respective areas of vermin and others kept their fondness for cats as well. As time went on, more people of influence began to keep cats (even Cardinals Wolsey and Richelieu kept cats as pets) and the tide began to turn in the cats favor.

Finally, but the 18th century, cats were no longer persecuted and cats as companions began to make a comeback. Today, of course, cats are widely accepted as the loving companions and, while they don't typically enjoy the status they did in ancient Egypt, they are adored and cared for as loving pets.

Author : Lee Dobbins

Dog Toys for the Brain, Teeth and Feet

Thinking of the best toys that suit your dog? Browse through the dog toys below and see what fits your pet and your budget.

For dogs who love to chew:

1. Kong Jump’n Jack

Prices:
$5.60 (small)
$7.50 (medium)
$8.80 (large)

Kong Jump’n Jack is a dog toy and a teeth cleaner and gum exerciser at the same time. It has a very unpredictable bounce that makes it a lot more fun for the dog to play with. It has a lot more surfaces that clean dog’s teeth. Kong Jump’n Jack also has slits that are useful for the gums to be exercised.

2. Squirrel Dude (Busy Buddy)

Prices:
$5.99 (small)
$8.99 (medium)
$11.99 (large)

This is a unique and innovative rubber toy. It has four rubber prongs that cover the hole a bit which challenges the dog to give more effort to taste the food treats inside. The Squirrel Dude is durable and very chewable.

3. Biscuit Block (Animal Planet)

$4.50 (small)
$9.90 (medium)

This chew toy has four grabbing chambers distributed throughout the toy. Varieties of dog treats can be inserted inside to keep pets happy and busy. It has a crazy bounce brought about by its square shape with cut corners.

4. Ball Stomp’r (Launch and Throw Ball Toys)

Price:
$10.99 (regular, red)
$8.99 (mini, green)

This dog toy enables both young and old to have a great time playing with their dogs. The Ball Stomp’r is the first ball launcher of its kind. The ball needs to be loaded, then stomped on and it will eject to a height reaching 100 feet with the regular ball. The mini Ball Stom’r can reach up to a height of 60 feet. This toy has its own ball but tennis balls are a good substitute. This toy is tough, water proof and very dog friendly. This is not chew-proof though so it should be kept after using. The dimension of a regular-sized Ball Stomp’r is 12 inches in length that uses a tennis ball sized ball. The smaller type is 9 inches long and uses a ball with the size of 2 inches.

4. Dinosaur Egg Baby (Plush Puppies) – Intelligence Building Toy ($6.90)

The Dinosaur Egg Baby has three eggs inside that give out a squeaking sound. It has a secret opening underneath to test dog’s instinct in getting hidden rewards. It is 6 inches in height, 5 inches wide and 12 inches long.

Toys that exercise dogs, cleanse their teeth, rejuvenate their jumping ability and test their intelligence. A complete set of these toys would definitely make owners be much more loved by their pets.

Dog Supplies Buying Guide

Dog Supplies Buying Guide

Just like a baby who needs utmost attention and care, the best supplies for your dog needs some major consideration, too. Here's how you can ensure that your pet gets the best toys, food, and other necessities.

1. Dog Food and Treats

Your dog's needs should be the emphasis when considering what food or treat to buy him. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals should be given, particularly to growing puppies. Sporting and working dog breeds need to eat something that will sustain their hyperactive lifestyle. Dogs that are not getting any younger need low-calorie food to avoid weight gain. Do not scrimp on the budget here no matter how compelling it might be. A healthy dog is reflected by the food he eats.

2. Dog Leashes and Collars

The size and weight of the dog should be taken into account in choosing the right dog collar. The collar's material needs attention too. Nylon is good for water-loving dogs since it is more durable and light. For a tougher look, leather dog collars are a lot better since they are more durable and can even be accessorized with spikes.

Dog leashes come in cloth, nylon, retractable, and leather styles.

3. Dog Toys

The safety of your dog should be the top priority in looking for a dog toy. What fun could be derived from a toy if it will endanger your pet's life, right? A dog toy should be large enough so that it can't be swallowed by your pet. However, it should be small enough for your dog to be able to grip it well.

The durability of the toys will need major consideration too, especially for dogs that are serious chewers. Light chewers can settle for vinyl and latex dog toys.

4. Training Guides for Your Dog

Dog whistles, dog harnesses and bitter-tasting sprays compose the wide array of dog-training guides that will keep a dog from chewing. If the chewing problem is a lot more serious, you may want to use a dog bark collar or an electric fence. It is advised that you remain consistent and humane when training your dog.

There are many dog training books available that can be helpful when training your dog.

5. Dog Health Items

Tick and flea infestation control medications are available to ensure that your dog's health is secured against these pests. Brands like Advantix, Advantage and Frontline are some of the popular flea and tick drugs in the market.

Your dog's dental health should never be taken for granted either. Dog toothbrushes and dog toothpastes, and even dog toys are now made available to support the dental health of your pet.

Following these guidelines will definitely help you have a healthy dog and healthy pet!