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  • in reply to: First days raw. Advice? #99146 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Hope this helps.
    https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/choosing-the-right-diet-for-your-pet/
    excerpts below, click on link for full article:

    Animal by-products
    In addition to grain, animal by-products have become “dirty words” on the ingredient list. Although not necessarily appealing to humans (particularly in the USA), the definition of a by-product in pet food is a part of the animal that is not skeletal muscle. This includes organ meats and intestines (not intestinal contents). AAFCO specifically excludes hair, hooves, horns, hide, manure, etc
 as acceptable by-products. So in reality, by-products are perfectly healthy and full of nutrients. And you can be sure that a wild wolf or mountain lion is eating “by-products” in nature.

    Raw diets
    Raw diets are another popular option on the market today. Studies have shown that 20-35% of raw poultry and 80% of raw food dog diets tested contained Salmonella. This poses a health risk for your pet, but also for humans. This is especially true for children or immunocompromised adults, whether exposed to the raw food directly, or the feces of the pet eating the raw food. Additionally, there is increased risk of other bacterial infections and parasitic diseases when feeding raw diets. And the bottom line is there is no reason to believe raw food is healthier than cooked food.
    The numerous dietary choices for your pet can be daunting but if you pick an AAFCO approved food made by a manufacturer with a long track record, odds are good that you will find a suitable food for your pet. Most of the large pet food companies employ full time veterinary nutritionists and have very high quality control standards. That is not to say that a small company cannot produce nutritious and high quality food, but you should check out their website if it’s a company that is not familiar to you. Take the time to research, and ask your veterinarian if you have specific questions or concerns.
    Please understand that this article is meant to provide basic dietary guidelines for healthy pets. If your pet has specific health issues, then your veterinarian may make specific food recommendations, which may include special prescription diets.

    in reply to: First days raw. Advice? #99145 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Here is some research, hope it helps: excerpt below from: https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/choosing-the-right-diet-for-your-pet/
    “Choosing the Right Diet for Your Pet”
    Raw diets are another popular option on the market today. Studies have shown that 20-35% of raw poultry and 80% of raw food dog diets tested contained Salmonella. This poses a health risk for your pet, but also for humans. This is especially true for children or immunocompromised adults, whether exposed to the raw food directly, or the feces of the pet eating the raw food. Additionally, there is increased risk of other bacterial infections and parasitic diseases when feeding raw diets. And the bottom line is there is no reason to believe raw food is healthier than cooked food.
    The numerous dietary choices for your pet can be daunting but if you pick an AAFCO approved food made by a manufacturer with a long track record, odds are good that you will find a suitable food for your pet. Most of the large pet food companies employ full time veterinary nutritionists and have very high quality control standards. That is not to say that a small company cannot produce nutritious and high quality food, but you should check out their website if it’s a company that is not familiar to you. Take the time to research, and ask your veterinarian if you have specific questions or concerns.
    Please understand that this article is meant to provide basic dietary guidelines for healthy pets. If your pet has specific health issues, then your veterinarian may make specific food recommendations, which may include special prescription diets.

    in reply to: First days raw. Advice? #99143 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Here is some research, hope it helps: excerpt below from:
    “Choosing the Right Diet for Your Pet”
    https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/choosing-the-right-diet-for-your-pet/

    Raw diets are another popular option on the market today. Studies have shown that 20-35% of raw poultry and 80% of raw food dog diets tested contained Salmonella. This poses a health risk for your pet, but also for humans. This is especially true for children or immunocompromised adults, whether exposed to the raw food directly, or the feces of the pet eating the raw food. Additionally, there is increased risk of other bacterial infections and parasitic diseases when feeding raw diets. And the bottom line is there is no reason to believe raw food is healthier than cooked food.
    The numerous dietary choices for your pet can be daunting but if you pick an AAFCO approved food made by a manufacturer with a long track record, odds are good that you will find a suitable food for your pet. Most of the large pet food companies employ full time veterinary nutritionists and have very high quality control standards. That is not to say that a small company cannot produce nutritious and high quality food, but you should check out their website if it’s a company that is not familiar to you. Take the time to research, and ask your veterinarian if you have specific questions or concerns.
    Please understand that this article is meant to provide basic dietary guidelines for healthy pets. If your pet has specific health issues, then your veterinarian may make specific food recommendations, which may include special prescription diets.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #99026 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Of course, let’s forget about…… I don’t what I was saying. Note to self: Think before you post. I apologize if I upset or confused you in any way.

    Corgi’s are barrel chested and they love to eat and tend to put weight on easily. I used to walk the one I had 3 to 5 miles a day, at one point she was up to 40 pounds (34 being ideal).
    The weight came off gradually after about 3 months of walking. And of course measured amounts for her 2 daily feedings. Only a raw carrot for an occasional snack.
    They say you should be able to feel the ribs, just a light layer adipose tissue covering them. They shouldn’t be sticking out, though.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98962 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Oh, no. Don’t apologize. I wish you and your dog well. I’m sorry if I didn’t communicate that effectively.
    I’m the one who should take a break. :/
    Peace

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98914 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    I never said that your pet was overweight. You implied that your dog was overweight based on what the veterinarian that examined your dog said (according to you). You claim that the veterinarian advised that your dog needs to lose weight?
    You have not stated your dog’s weight? Desired weight? Age? Medical conditions?

    Don’t understand what your question is?

    PS: Some of us have made suggestions regarding dog food, hope it helps.

    in reply to: Dental spray #98885 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Listen, my dog just went in for a dental extraction, one bad tooth way in the back. The vet said because of my daily brushings, a dental cleaning was not indicated. She has never had a professional cleaning, so far, not recommended.

    She is a senior, she has had 2 other teeth fall out root and all within the past year. This is what happens as they age.
    I am not aware of any dietary supplements that would remove tartar or prevent periodontal disease. However, if I was not reassured by my vet’s assessment I would consult a specialist.
    Ps: I was able to pick up that there was a problem because my dog screamed in pain when I tried to brush her teeth in the area of the bad tooth, something she usually tolerated.
    Otherwise, she showed no symptoms.

    in reply to: Dental spray #98878 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Well, my vet told me you can’t tell by looking (re periodontal disease). Why not consult a specialist? I don’t get it. You think supplements would be more effective than a specialist….
    I would get an opinion, you may be right, maybe the specialist won’t recommend a cleaning for your dog.
    Ps: You are listening to people on the internet. Homeopathic views differ greatly from science based veterinary medicine. It is up to you who you choose to believe. I would listen to a vet that has examined my dog and that I have a good relationship with. Just my 2 cents.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98877 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    https://www.chewy.com/indipets-stainless-steel-slow-pet/dp/135949
    This is the one that works for one of my dogs.

    in reply to: Dental spray #98871 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    “Ok, well not sure what to do then. Thanks to both of you.”
    “The vet here has mentioned sending her to dental vet if need arose.”

    Well, there is your answer, imo, consult a dental specialist for the best results. Good luck.
    Ps: Most people commenting on these forums/internet are not here in a professional capacity.
    Obviously you are worried, that is why you are here.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98867 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    An easy fix would be to cut the amount of whatever you are feeding her in half. Two meals per day, measured amounts. NO SNACKS. No free feeding (leaving food down) Always have fresh water available.
    Add a splash of water to the food, offer frequent bathroom breaks, opportunities to urinate.
    Weigh in one week, step on the scale first and note your weight, then lift the dog up and step on the scale, note the weight and deduct your weight.
    Increase daily walks, even if slow, leisurely, 10 minute walks. The more movement the better.
    I can almost guarantee you will see a loss. She is cute, but she does not need the extra weight, obesity is not cute.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98865 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    It’s weight management, but it is 337 calories per cup. The one I recommended is 250 calories per cup.

    If any living thing wants to lose weight (assuming a medical condition isn’t the cause).
    They have to eat less/consume less calories and move more. It’s really that simple.
    Good luck

    in reply to: Dental spray #98864 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Many dogs tend to be stoic, inflammation of the gums is a red flag.
    In fact, doing anything other than a dental cleaning and whatever else is recommended by the specialist could result in increased pain and infection.
    https://www.avdc.org/periodontaldisease.html
    excerpt below
    Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in the mouth form a substance called plaque that sticks to the surface of the teeth.  Subsequently, minerals in the saliva harden the plaque into dental calculus (tartar), which is firmly attached to the teeth. Tartar above the gum line is obvious to many owners, but is not of itself the cause of disease. 
    The real problem develops as plaque and calculus spread under the gum line. Bacteria in this ‘sub-gingival’ plaque set in motion a cycle of damage to the supporting tissues around the tooth, eventually leading to loss of the tooth. Bacteria under the gum line secrete toxins, which contribute to the tissue damage if untreated. These bacteria also stimulate the animal’s immune system. The initial changes cause white blood cells and inflammatory chemical signals to move into the periodontal space (between the gum or bone and the tooth). The function of the white blood cells is to destroy the bacterial invaders, but chemicals released by the overwhelmed white blood cells cause damage to the supporting tissues of the tooth. Instead of helping the problem, the patient’s own protective system actually worsens the disease when there is severe build-up of plaque and tartar.
    Periodontal disease includes gingivitis (inflammation [reddening] of the gums) and periodontitis (loss of bone and soft tissue around the teeth). There is a wide range in the appearance and severity of periodontal disease, which often cannot be properly evaluated or treated without general anesthesia for veterinary patients. Effects within the oral cavity include damage to or loss of gum tissue and bone around the teeth, development of a hole (‘fistula’) from the oral cavity into the nasal passages causing nasal discharge, fractures of the jaw following weakening of the jaw bone, and bone infection (‘osteomyelititis’). Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and are carried around the body. Studies in dogs have shown that periodontal disease is associated with microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys. 
    Studies in humans have linked periodontal disease to a variety of health problems including poor control of diabetes mellitus and increased severity of diabetic complications. Additionally, it has been shown that diabetes is a risk factor for periodontal disease

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98858 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    https://www.chewy.com/iams-healthy-naturals-weight/dp/105040
    compare with:
    https://www.chewy.com/natural-balance-fat-dogs-chicken/dp/46804

    In my opinion Natural Balance is better, almost 100 calories less per cup than Iams. Plus, the ingredients look good.
    I thought the goal was for the dog to lose weight? Obesity can lead to all kinds of disorders, plus if the dog ever needs surgery, the risk is much greater for an obese dog……just like with people.

    Ps: What food does your vet recommend?

    in reply to: Dental spray #98855 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Another thought, if the dog is experiencing pain/discomfort/infection also known as periodontal disease. I would go to a specialist, example:
    “The Dentistry Specialty Service at Angell Animal Medical Center has been proud to provide quality oral health care to pets and education to clients and veterinarians since 1998.”
    “We are an experienced, dentistry-dedicated technical staff, with experience treating high-anesthesia-risk patients.” excerpt from https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/dentistry-service/

    in reply to: Dental spray #98854 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    I have good results using Petrodex and an adult toothbrush, I even use a battery operated one now. Once a day. Twice a day is even better, it only takes 5 minutes.
    But, you have to get in the back/sides.
    I get the toothpaste at chewy dot com.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98853 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    I agree, it’s best to keep him on the lean side. I have found dogs enjoy their food most when they have gone a few hours without eating and are REALLY hungry. Get him one of those dome dishes designed to slow him down
if he eats too fast.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98851 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Do you have pet health insurance? I’m asking because if your vet prescribes aqua therapy (swimming in a heated pool) as a weight loss/rehab, it may be covered.

    Ps: re: the short legs, Corgi?

    in reply to: consumer reviews on Kirkland dog food #98846 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Did the vet do x-rays? What you describe sounds like what happened to my dog “hemangiosarcoma”. It usually strikes dogs between 8 and 10 years of age. Often no symptoms till it is too late, genetic in nature, tends to occur in certain breeds such as German Shepherds.
    The anemia and difficulty breathing indicates tumors and mets to the lungs.
    Whatever the case. I’m sorry for your loss.

    in reply to: Dental spray #98845 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Nothing removes tartar except daily teeth brushing makes a big difference. A professional cleaning may be needed depending on condition of the teeth and then daily brushing.
    Hope this helps http://skeptvet.com/Blog/?s=dental+disease
    Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats: Does Treatment Improve Health?
    Posted on June 6, 2013 by skeptvet
    (Excerpt from article below click on link for full article)
    “Dental disease, especially periodontal disease, is very common in dogs and cats. Though affected pets rarely show obvious or severe symptoms, periodontal disease is undoubtedly a source of significant discomfort. The only accurate way to diagnose, characterize, and treat periodontal disease is with a thorough oral examination, dental x-rays, and appropriate cleaning and often extraction or endodontic treatment of infected teeth. This can only be accomplished under general anesthesia”.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98734 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Yes, I agree. A senior workup, lab work and all. I assumed this was done already.
    If not, it is important to rule out medical issues first. Seniors are vulnerable to all sorts of stuff.

    in reply to: Senior Weight Loss food #98730 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Natural Balance for Fat Dogs, check it out, only 250 calories a cup and the ingredients don’t look bad at all. I give a 1/2 raw carrot as a treat (not baby carrots/choking hazard)
    https://www.naturalbalanceinc.com/dog-formulas/dry/fat-dogs/original

    I would feed this to a senior. I might add a little lean ground cooked turkey or a bite of scrambled with water egg to it. Plus a splash of water to the kibble (a lot of dogs don’t drink enough water)
    I never give yogurt or any dairy products to dogs. The only supplement I add is one fish oil capsule a day.

    Increase walks, activity. Any way you can take him swimming? One minute of swimming is equal to 4 minutes of running! And easy on the joints.

    • This reply was modified 7 years ago by anonymous.
    in reply to: Heart murmur #98713 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Sounds good, I would go by what your vet recommends, for now.
    It probably wouldn’t hurt to add a fish oil capsule. No matter how good the dog food, a lot of the fish oil stuff dissipates as soon as you open the bag 🙁

    Ps: Make sure he is drinking water, these old guys, especially small breeds, are vulnerable to develop bladder stones. I would add a splash to his food.

    in reply to: In need of aggressive flea meds #98700 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Call the local Humane Society, they may have some ideas. Good luck

    in reply to: In need of aggressive flea meds #98698 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Have they been spayed/neutered? Seen a vet lately? Rabies shots?
    This is what any shelter will ask you.

    Ps: Be careful about giving the cats away, some folks will take in a pet for free as a toy for nasty little children to entertain themselves with.

    in reply to: In need of aggressive flea meds #98695 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    What area are you in? There are animal sanctuaries, they are hard to find, but sometimes if you make a decent donation (money talks) they will take in unadoptable pets and feral cats and they can live out their lives there.

    Ps: I think your Grandma needs help, get the family together and discuss.

    in reply to: In need of aggressive flea meds #98693 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Another thought, maybe you should do an intervention with your Grandma? If she has taken on too many pets to adequately care for and provide medical attention for, maybe she should consider contacting local animal control or a local feral cat rescue group for help placing the animals elsewhere?
    Fleas are disgusting, everyone in the house will get sick if this situation doesn’t get under control.
    I apologize if I am being blunt, I am only trying to help.

    in reply to: In need of aggressive flea meds #98686 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Let me guess. Wall to wall old carpeting?
    If she is going to have multiple animals in her home, I would suggest having the carpeting torn out and replaced with an easy to clean type of vinyl flooring.
    Everything will have to be removed from the house, the occupants will have to stay elsewhere for at least a couple of days so that a professional pest control company can fumigate the place. Anything else would only be a temporary band aid solution (at best) and ineffective.
    This could become a Board of Health issue (or Animal Control)……a neighbor could make a call.

    This is just my opinion/speculation based on the limited information provided.
    I could be way off, but I don’t think so based on what you have described.

    in reply to: Heart murmur #98680 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Hope this helps, excerpt below. Click on link for full article.
    https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/qa-with-angell-west-cardiologist-dr-rebecca-malakoff/
    My dog/cat has a heart murmur. What does this mean?
    A heart murmur is a “swooshing” sound heard while listening to the heart, instead of a crisp “lub-dub” sound. This typically indicates some turbulence to blood flow in the heart. It can be caused by a leaking valve, by an area of narrowing within the heart causing disturbance to blood flow, or by other abnormalities such as a defect or “hole” in a heart wall from birth. As in people, some pets can have a soft “innocent” murmur, where no significant heart disease is present. Murmurs are graded on a scale of 1 to 6 depending on how loud they are and how many places over the heart they are audible (with 6 being the loudest and most widespread). To determine the cause of a heart murmur, an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart, is recommended.

    in reply to: Heart murmur #98679 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    No, your vet is right. A lot of supplements are scams and some can even cause harm.
    My last small breed had a heart murmur since the age of 5, no symptoms , lived till age 16 and died of unrelated causes.
    I have had other small breeds that developed murmurs as they got older, no treatment required.
    Of course if he begins to have symptoms I would talk to your vet, there are probably prescription meds that would help. And you could even take him to a veterinary cardiologist for further testing and evaluation.
    The reverse sneeze thing may be unrelated. Does he hack up white foamy stuff? My old guy did that occasionally, not often.
    Ps: The only supplement I give these days is one fish oil capsule with the morning meal.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98651 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    I think regular dog toothpaste would be okay, you only need to use a small amount.
    Regarding the toys, I am thinking of those things with stuffing and metal squeakers etc.
    Just saying, be careful, some dogs consume this stuff and that could cause an intestinal blockage.
    Rope toys included. They shred the material and swallow it.
    Ps: the initial dental brushings are just to get the pup comfortable with it, the baby teeth are going to fall out in a few months and be replaced with adult teeth.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98650 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    @Inked Marie
    Glad he is okay.

    My little one had a dental extraction a few days ago, one bad tooth way in the back. Due to the daily brushings I do, a full dental cleaning was not indicated.
    However, next time I will ask for x-rays, as periodontal disease can show up at any time, especially with a senior.
    She’s on antibiotics for a few days, prn rimadyl for 3 days. So far so good.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98644 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    @ Inked Marie
    “I also agree about knowing the number of the ER vets. I was just at ours last weekend”

    What happened? This stuff always happens on the weekend, in the middle of the night, or on holidays.
    Hope your dogs are okay.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98603 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    You’ve got me going now! I have to say it. Puppy proof your home, they get into everything, and I mean everything 🙁
    Be careful with those plastic toys, don’t leave a puppy alone with them, they tear them apart and try to eat them!
    Make sure you know where the nearest emergency 24/7 veterinary clinic is located and have the number on your fridg. I hope you never have to go there….but

    Ps: Forgive me if you know this already, all dogs LOVE to eat cat feces, so you may have to take a look at where litter boxes are placed.
    Have you considered pet health insurance for your pup? Might be worth looking into where this your first dog, add that to the questions for your vet.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98602 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Raw carrots are good to chew on! Not the baby ones though, choking hazard if they try to swallow them whole. Make sure the puppy slowly works/nibbles on it. A cold carrot will be soothing to the gums too, as the teething process will start soon 🙂

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98599 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    It might be a good idea if you make a list of questions to present to your vet during your puppy’s first visit. I know I often forget something I wanted to ask.
    Often they will give you a new puppy kit that should have the answers to your questions.

    As Pitluv mentioned in a previous response to you, asking these type of questions on the internet will provide you with differing opinions.
    Those with homeopathic beliefs will tell you one thing. Those of us that believe in science based veterinary medicine will tell you another. Often totally different viewpoints, opinions, facts…..and yes, sometimes misinformation. Then what?

    I have found it beneficial to have one veterinary clinic where they know me and my pets.
    And I value their advice and guidance.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98598 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    I use a toothbrush and Petrodex toothpaste. I get the toothpaste at chewy dot com.
    I never give my dogs bones, they don’t clean in the back where the tartar tends to build up, I don’t consider them worth the risk of broken teeth and intestinal blockage.
    Ask your vet. Hope these articles help.

    Give a Dog a Bone (Not!)–FDA warns of dangers of feeding bones to dogs

    http://www.embracepetinsurance.com/blog/harmful-side-animal-sourced-dog-chews

    For tick removal I use this item, or any tweezers will do.
    https://tickease.com/

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98587 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Another thing I do is check the dog from head to toe at bedtime for ticks. Make it a routine. Learn how to remove a tick with tweezers when you find one.
    You may want to gently start brushing the pups teeth once a day too.
    I’m excited for you. There is nothing cuter than a puppy! Imo

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98583 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Sorry, it was not my intention to be rude. Best of luck with your new pup. Sincerely.

    Also I find keeping the lawn mowed low (once a week) and clear of all weeds/brush helpful.
    Ticks don’t like bright sunlight. They like tall grass, shade, leaf beds/debris

    • This reply was modified 7 years ago by anonymous.
    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98512 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Yes, some flea/tick products are toxic, lethal to cats

    Please, do not give anything to your pup until you have the dog examined by a vet.
    There is a lot of incorrect information on the internet

    Wake up. Listen to a veterinarian that has examined your dog.

    in reply to: Puppy with giardia? #98501 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html
    Having trouble affording veterinary care?
    Help is out there

    in reply to: Puppy with giardia? #98500 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    TAKE THE DOG TO A VETERINARIAN ASAP.

    Wake up. Don’t look for veterinary medical advice online.

    in reply to: Low Fat Dog Food #98464 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Ask your vet if this product would be an option? https://www.chewy.com/natural-balance-fat-dogs-chicken/dp/46804

    Six cups of food a day? Are you sure about that? Don’t go by the recommendations on the dog food bag, they tend to be to much (imo). Start with the lowest amount.

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98454 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Again, it depends on your pet, the area you live in and the level of risk involved.
    These are things you should discuss with a veterinarian when you bring your new pup in for it’s first vet visit which is recommended within 2 weeks of bringing him home.
    You should not accept a puppy that is less than 10 weeks old. You should not apply or give a puppy any preventatives without consulting a vet first.
    Ps: Collars are effective as tick control for some dogs. Again, discuss with a veterinarian and come up with an option you are comfortable with.
    No one should recommend specific products for you. Different products are best for different dogs.

    “Want to know what will work for you dog or cat? Talk with your veterinarian who can recommend safe parasite-control products that are effective for the parasites in your area. Then make sure you use them as directed.”

    in reply to: Flea & Tick Prevention #98418 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Home Remedies That Will Not Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks — and May Hurt Your Pet
    By Laura Cross | July 18, 2016
    Do a quick Internet search on natural ways to prevent fleas and ticks and you’ll come up with thousands of links. You could spend all day researching these home remedies. The problem: As much as we love using natural solutions when they work, many simply aren’t effective at controlling parasites. In some cases these ‘remedies’ can cause more harm than good for your pet.
    So before you add chopped up garlic to your animal’s food or bathe her in essential oils, check out our quick list of home remedies to avoid.
    Parasite Prevention and Removal Remedies That Don’t Work
    Bad Idea: Putting Garlic in Pet Food
    Even though a lot of people think this a safe and effective way to prevent fleas, there’s no scientific evidence that garlic — whether it’s fresh from the bulb, powdered or in a supplement — can keep the parasites at bay. Even worse, garlic can be toxic to pets. Garlic contains substances that damage red blood cells in dogs in cats, potentially leading to life-threatening anemia if ingested in large quantities.
    Bad Idea: Dipping Pet in Motor Oil, Bleach, Vinegar or Turpentine
    Bathing your dog or cat in motor oil, bleach or turpentine is dangerous way to attempt to get rid of fleas or ticks. Depending on the substance, it could cause serious health problems, chemical burns, even death. Vinegar, while it may seem like the safer bet, also has its problems. According to the ASPCA Poison Control Center, ingesting undiluted vinegar can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, mouth irritation and pain.
    Bad Idea: Burning a Tick off with Lit Match
    Holding a lit match next to fur to remove a tiny parasite should set off alarm bells in your head. If anything, this tick-removal technique could set your poor pet on fire. You should also avoid freezing off a tick with an aerosol-based freezing gel, as you’re more likely to hurt your pet than help him.
    Bad Idea: Using Undiluted Essential Oils Directly on Your Pet
    Some essential oils, like citronella, may help repel parasites, but that doesn’t mean you should use them on your dog or cat. Essential oils can be toxic to pets at certain concentrations, and these substances can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin or licked by your pet. Some natural flea and tick pet shampoos may contain essential oils, but because the oils are diluted with other ingredients, they are more likely to be safe if used according to label directions.
    Bad Idea: Using Nail Polish and Petroleum Jelly to Kill Ticks
    It’s an old wives’ tale that nail polish is an effective way to remove ticks. Many people think painting over a tick with varnish or smothering it in petroleum jelly will drown and kill the tick. But it could cause the tick to salivate or regurgitate into the bite wound, increasing the risk of infection. So keep nail polish on fingernails — not on your dog or cat.
    The Best Ways to Prevent Parasites
    Want to know what will work for you dog or cat? Talk with your veterinarian who can recommend safe parasite-control products that are effective for the parasites in your area. Then make sure you use them as directed.
    http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/home-remedies-that-will-not-get-rid-of-fleas-and-ticks-and-may-hurt-your-pet

    in reply to: MDR1 dog and heartworm, flea, tick meds #98417 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    @ Lora J
    Whatever method you decide to use for a heartworm/flea/tick/Lyme preventives, I just wanted to stress the importance of routine testing.
    “Using a single test, your veterinarian can check for any combination of the following diseases, including all of them: heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis”.
    “SNAP” testing refers to a group of quick, convenient, blood tests that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office. There are various SNAP tests for different purposes:
    SNAP Heartworm RT Test—screens for heartworm infection
    SNAP 3Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis
    SNAP 4Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.
    above 2 paragraphs are excerpts from: http://www.vetstreet.com/care/heartworm-disease-lyme-disease-ehrlichiosis-anaplasmosis-snap-testing-in-dogs

    I once had 3 dogs test negative for Lyme in April, when one showed symptoms in September I had them retested. All 3 were positive for Lyme.
    It is important when this happens to start the antibiotic protocol ASAP
    Good luck.

    in reply to: MDR1 dog and heartworm, flea, tick meds #98416 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    @ Lora J
    Whatever method you decide to use for a heartworm/flea/tick/Lyme preventives, I just wanted to stress the importance of testing.

    “Using a single test, your veterinarian can check for any combination of the following diseases, including all of them: heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis”.
    “SNAP” testing refers to a group of quick, convenient, blood tests that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office. There are various SNAP tests for different purposes:
    SNAP Heartworm RT Test—screens for heartworm infection
    SNAP 3Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis
    SNAP 4Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.
    above 2 paragraphs are excerpts from: http://www.vetstreet.com/care/heartworm-disease-lyme-disease-ehrlichiosis-anaplasmosis-snap-testing-in-dogs

    I once had 3 dogs test negative for Lyme in April, when one showed symptoms in September I had them retested. All 3 were positive for Lyme.
    It is important when this happens to start the antibiotic protocol ASAP
    Good luck.

    in reply to: MDR1 dog and heartworm, flea, tick meds #98415 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    @ Lora J
    Whatever method you decide to use for a heartworm/flea/tick/Lyme preventives, I just wanted to stress the importance of testing.
    “Using a single test, your veterinarian can check for any combination of the following diseases, including all of them: heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis”.
    “SNAP” testing refers to a group of quick, convenient, blood tests that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office. There are various SNAP tests for different purposes:
    SNAP Heartworm RT Test—screens for heartworm infection
    SNAP 3Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis
    SNAP 4Dx Test—simultaneously screens for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.
    above 2 paragraphs are excerpts from: http://www.vetstreet.com/care/heartworm-disease-lyme-disease-ehrlichiosis-anaplasmosis-snap-testing-in-dogs

    I once had 3 dogs test negative for Lyme in April, when one showed symptoms in September I had them retested. All 3 were positive for Lyme.
    It is important when this happens to start the antibiotic protocol ASAP
    Good luck.

    in reply to: MDR1 dog and heartworm, flea, tick meds #98406 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Not just opinion, a scientific fact. Natural flea/tick remedies do not work.

    Ps: Wondercide stinks! I’ve used it in the past and found it to be ineffective, same with the brewers yeast and garlic supplements.

    Believe what you want.

    in reply to: MDR1 dog and heartworm, flea, tick meds #98401 Report Abuse
    anonymous
    Member

    Have you checked out this site: skeptvet dot com? He answers questions, sometimes.
    Anyway, nothing is being sold at that site.
    No phony baloney miracle remedies…..

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