Category: Dog Safety

Protect,Treat & Remove Fleas & Ticks From Your Dog

11/9/2017

Warmer weather brings out the ticks and fleas and in some areas of the country our parasite season is longer due to our seasons not being as defined as they used to be.

Here is some useful information about these parasites, signs that your pet has them and things you can do to prevent your dog from getting ticks and fleas.

Fleas and Your Dog

Fleas are parasites and they live, feed and breed on your dog which is the host animal; but they can also affect humans and it doesn’t take long for them to make themselves at home on your property. Let’s look at the things we can do to prevent these creatures from infesting your home and your pet:

How do fleas show up on dogs in the first place?

Dogs can easily pick up these parasites from other pets as fleas can jump very easily from one dog to another. However, your dog primarily picks up fleas from the environment that it comes into contact with such as yards, homes parks or areas where other flea-infested pets or other animals have been.

Fleas- signs to look out for:

Scratching, itching and biting at skin
Irritated and red skin
Small bites or scabs on skin
Hot spots
Flea dirt on dog’s coat
Hair loss

How to protect your dog from fleas.

Fleas thrive in shady, wet, warm and humid environments. So, keeping this in mind there are several ways you can help protect your dog from getting fleas such as:

Keep all your rugs and carpets clean by vacuuming them regularly.
Wash your pets’ bedding regularly.
Wash your pet’s clothing with regularity and make sure it’s clean at all times.
Keep your lawns and grass short in your yard.
The garden areas should be free from debris.
Bathe your dog regularly with an organic, anti-flea dog shampoo.
If you notice that your dog has a severe flea infestation, you should take him to the vet and get him treated; that will help break the flea’s life cycle.

Ticks and Your Dog

Ticks are normally found in regions where there is a lot of bushland and native wildlife. These troublesome parasites can cause quite serious problems for your dog such as paralysis. The paralysis tick latches onto the dog and injects toxins into their system which progressively paralyses them normally from the hind legs forward.

Symptoms of tick paralysis include:

Lack of appetite
Lethargy
Loss of bark
Vomiting
Hind limb weakness or paralysis
Heavy breathing as well as elevated heart rate

Some more symptoms of common tick infestations

Fever
Unexplained scabs
A lot of head shaking
You feel a small bump on its skin

How does a dog get ticks?

It extremely difficult to prevent your dog from being exposed to ticks; these creatures can latch onto to your dog when he/she goes out with you on walks, or during any other outdoor activities such as hiking etc. Dogs get a tick infestation because they are out in that open environment, walking through the high grass or woods.

Ticks undergo questing (they crawl up onto low shrubs/grass and stay there). When a dog walks by or even when we walk past and brush against these ticks, they quickly dislodge and latch onto us. These parasites can live for well over a year without any food and they will just stay there waiting for a host to latch onto.

The right way to check your dog for ticks

Check your pet for ticks every single day, especially during spring, summer & autumn. If you live in a region with a warmer climate check your dog for ticks right round the year.
Brush your fingers firmly through their fur; the pressure should be just enough to feel for small bumps.
Make sure to check behind your dog’s ears, under their collar, around their mouth and between their toes, around the tail and head, and under their armpits too. If you feel any bumps, simply pull the fur apart to check what’s there. Ticks that have embedded themselves in your dog will vary in their size; some could be as small as a pinhead while others could be as large as a grape; this depends on how long the tick has been attached to your pet’s body.
Ticks are generally either dark brown or black in color

How to protect your dog from getting ticks

Some of the things you can do to protect your dog from getting ticks include:

Check your pet for ticks daily, especially if they have spent some time outdoors.
If you find ticks on your dog, remove them without delay.
Ask your vet to conduct a tick check during every regular checkup.
Speak with your veterinarian about any tick-borne diseases in your neighbourhood.
Talk with your vet about using specialised tick preventives on your pet.
Keep your lawns and grass short in your yard
Make sure your yard is free from debris.

How to Remove A Tick Safely from Your Dog

Tick removal products are available at your vet. If you find a tick then remove with a Tick Twister or tick key. It is very advisable to get your dog to the vet if you know there has been a tick attached as symptoms may not show themselves for 24-78 hours and by then the damage could be done.

Tick Twisters are available to purchase at our K9 SWiM Wellness Centre, North Richmond

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Bush Fires and Your Pets

5/12/2016

Summer and it’s hot weather is here! That means that the bush fire season is upon us. Pet owners need to be prepared in the event of a bush fire. Pets have been left behind in bush fires because their owners had not included their pets as part of their Bush Fire Survival Plan. Taking the time to create a Bush fire Survival Plan helps ensure your family and pets safety.

Pet Identity

It is important that your pet can be easily identified and reunited with you if you are separated. Ways of identifying your pet are:

Having them microchipped
Wearing a collar with an identification tag attached to it.

Make sure you update your details should you move or change telephone numbers.

Having a pet emergency kit will ensure you have the items you need for your pet ready to go quickly. The kit can include:

Food and plenty of water
Bowls
Any medications and a first aid kit
Pet’s medical history or any important information people need to know about your pet
A list of your pets and a photo with their name on it, kept in a protective cover
Your vet’s contact details
Woolen blankets and bedding
Collars, leads, halters, saddles etc
Cages, pet carriers, floats or van.
Your pet’s favourite toy
Poo bags, litter and trays

If you are using a cage, pet carrier or float, have these easily accessible for a quick evacuation and make sure your pet is trained to enter and spend time in these. Otherwise they may panic or fret and you may have difficulty to get them go into their crate or carrier.

Relocate or Stay?

For high-risk times it may be safer for you and your pets to relocate to somewhere else until the danger is over. Pets may panic and run. If you want to keep them with you, then keep them close to you at times of risk by keeping them inside, on a lead or in a crate. This will be faster and more efficient when it’s time to move your pet should you need to evacuate.

Do not leave it until the last minute to evacuate as this is the most dangerous option for you and your pets.

Make a Plan with Neighbours

Having a plan made with neighbours can help keep your pets safe if you are not at home. Consider doing the following:

Give your neighbour a copy of your Bush fire Plan
Have your pets and the Pet Emergency Kit accessible for your neighbour
Stay in contact with your neighbour so you both know what is happening.
Create a list of places that pets can be taken to incase of a fire emergency in your area such as a boarding kennel, a Vet Clinic, friends or family that are in a safe place.

It is a great idea to have signage on a gate or on your door should you have animals on your property or inside and you are not home. State how many pets there are so they can be accounted for should someone else have to evacuate them in an emergency.

Always prepare your evacuation bush fire emergency plan before summer so you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Watch for Heat Stress in Your Pets

Bush fires are usually in times of extreme heat and your pets may be vulnerable to heat stress. The signs will be panting, dehydration, drooling, high temperature, red gums, increased respiration and heart rate. If you suspect your pet is experiencing heat stroke, soak towels in cool water and place over pet or in-between the legs or around the neck. Always seek veterinary assistance immediately.

To prevent heat stroke provide lots of shade and fresh water outside. Preferably bring them inside to a cool part of the house if the temperature is soaring outside. Do not leave dogs in cars; the car can heat up so quickly to a dangerous temperature. Overweight, aged, short nosed or unhealthy dogs will suffer a lot more in the heat than other dogs so take extra precautions with them.

Fire Safety for You and Your Pets

We hope this information will help you keep your family and pets safe in the event of a bush fire. The NSW Rural Fire Service have some great Fact Sheets on bush fire safety, you can download. Along with a fact sheet on Fire Safety for Your Pets

Making Your Garden Dog Friendly

6/9/2016

As dog owners we want to ensure that our gardens are safe for our four legged friends. When creating our gardens we are sometimes unaware that they could be toxic to our pets. Pet friendly gardens tend to have an organic approach, making them safer and healthier. Before going out and buying seeds or plants, let’s make sure you are planting a dog friendly garden.

Common Weeds & Plants That Are Harmful To Dogs

There are a lot of plants that can be harmful to our pets and it is always wise to check online before purchasing. Listed below are some common weeds and plants found in the garden that can cause allergies or toxicity to your pets:

Avocado Tree
Bulbs
Cycads
Cyclamen
Foxglove
Holly
Hydrangea
Ivy
Macadamia Nut Tree
Most lilies are toxic garden plants to cats only
Nightshade
Oleander
Onions
Paspalum
Rhododendron
Tomato Plant (green parts only)
Wandering Jew

The AEC (Animal Emergency Centre) has produced a chart that you can download or print for reference, listing Common Plants Toxic to Dogs and Cats. Check your garden today!

Fertilizers, Herbicides, Insecticides and Baits

It is important to store any fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides or baits out of reach of your pets as these can be toxic. When using, keep your dogs out of the garden and make sure you read the labels. The label will include instructions and ensure the safety of your pets when using the product. If you are unsure then consult your veterinarian.

Why Do Dogs Eat Plants?

Not all dogs eat plants but here some common reasons why some dogs do:

Chew plants out of boredom
Puppies tend to want to be destructive
Plants can sometimes look appetizing to dogs
Dogs can see a new plant as something new to play with
Dogs can just be curious

No matter why your dog is chewing plants, it is up to dog owners to ensure they are safe and not exposed to any toxic plants within our gardens.

Common Symptoms Associated with Toxic Dog Plants

Most of us know when our four legged friends are not feeling well and toxic plants can cause minor to more severe symptoms. Listed here are some of the common symptoms related to toxic plants:

Diarrhoea
Discoloration of the skin
Drooling
Loss of Appetite
Rapid breathing
Staggering
Swollen mouth
Trouble swallowing
Vomiting

If you think your dog or pet is sick from ingesting a poisonous substance, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Planning Your Dog Friendly Garden

When planning your garden, make sure you select plants that are safe for your dog and avoid plants that are toxic or irritable. Some dogs love digging and there are bulbs like hyacinths, tulips, daffodils and some lilies that can be fatal. Some plants are fine and it’s only the fruits and berries that are poisonous, although there are also some grasses and weeds that can cause allergic reactions like itching, sneezing and bad rashes.

Familiarise yourself with what plants you have in your garden, or if planning a new one - check that the plants are safe for your pets before purchasing them. There is a great Australian book out called
“Poisonous2pets by Nicole O’Kane” that details all of the common plants and their toxicity along with great photos to help you identify the plant itself.

You also need to be aware of plants with thorns, spikes or hard sharp branches and where they are planted. If they are poorly positioned dogs may run into them or run past and injure themselves.

Features of a Dog Friendly Garden

To keep our dogs happy and healthy, here is a list of dog friendly features for the garden:

Pet friendly plants
Somewhere to run and play
Shady areas for a cooler place for your dog to relax
Sandbox for the dogs that love to dig
Your pet’s favourite toys to play with
Shelter and bedding
Supply of fresh water
Secure fencing to keep your dog in their yard
If your garden has steps make sure they are secure and not wobbly
Block access to areas where you don’t want your dog to go
You! as your pet loves to have someone to play with, make sure it’s a garden you want to spend time in and enjoy.

Celebrate Easter With Your Dog Without Chocolate

14/3/2016

Dogs love to be part of any family fun including Easter, but CHOCOLATE is NOT safe and is harmful to your dog. There are alternatives to chocolate that your dog can enjoy when celebrating Easter with you.

Including Your Dog In Easter Celebrations

Your dog can join in the Easter celebrations by you making or buying Easter eggs made from carob that are yummy to eat and safe for your dog.

A boiled egg, coloured and decorated with natural food dyes is another treat your dog can enjoy at Easter.

Why not make up some healthy brownies or biscuits made into Easter shapes and frost with carob or yoghurt drops! Your dogs will go hopping mad over them!!!
Continue reading for a great doggy biscuit - K9 Cookie that you can make yourself.

Easter Hunt For Dogs

Children love to play a game of Easter Hunt around the house and yard so why not get your fury friend involved and create an Easter Hunt for your dog! Carob Easter eggs or their favourite dog treats or biscuits will work a treat that will have them hunting for a surprise.

The Perfect Easter Egg For Your Dog is NOT Chocolate!

Most humans love chocolate but chocolate is toxic to our 4 legged friends. Chocolate contains cocoa and cocoa contains the compound theobromine. Theobromine is toxic to dogs. The amount of Theobromine differs in the different types of chocolate with dark chocolate having the most.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Experiencing Chocolate Toxicity

The symptoms of Theobromine poisoning include:
•   Vomiting
•   Diarrhoea
•   Restlessness
•   Hyperactivity
•   Rapid breathing
•   Stiff muscles
•   Uncoordinated .
•   Elevated heart rate
•   Seizures / collapse

How Do I Prevent My Dog From Eating Chocolate Over Easter?

It is important to keep chocolate out of reach of our dogs and keep them in a different area if there are Easter celebrations with chocolate about. Many people are unaware that chocolate is toxic to dogs so make sure the rest of the family and friends know not to feed your dog any type of chocolate or sweets containing cocoa.

I Think My Dog Has Eaten Chocolate, What Should I Do?

Stay calm and contact your vet immediately.

Try this delicious healthy K9 Cookie recipe for your pooch. It is a great treat for your pooch that can be used for Easter and any other celebration. So let’s get cooking!

K9 Cookie Recipe

Ingredients
•   2 cups of wholemeal flour
•   1 cup of rolled oats
•   1/3 cup of smooth organic peanut butter
•   1 tablespoon of natural honey
•   ¼ teaspoon of chia seed
•   1 1/2 cups of water or low salt chicken stock

Directions
1.   Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.
2.   Mix the flour and oats together in a large mixing bowl. Pour in one cup of water or stock and stir until smooth. Add in the peanut butter, honey, and chia seeds and mix until all the ingredients are well blended.
3.   Slowly add the water until the mixture has a thick and doughy consistency.
4.   Lightly flour a cooking surface. Roll the dough onto the cooking surface to create a 1/4 inch thick sheet.
5.   Use a cookie cutter to create Easter shapes. Place the cookies onto a greased or lined baking tray and bake for 40 minutes.
6.   Allow to cool completely before icing.

When cool you can melt carob or yoghurt drops to decorate the cookies. Delicious!!!!

Download K9 Cookie Recipe

AVOID Heat Stress In Dogs

7/1/2016

We all love our Australian summers and dogs love to stretch out and relax in the summer sun but some days can be excessively hot for our pets and we need to take some precautionary measures to avoid heat stress in dogs.

Dogs Can Dehydrate Very Quickly

Consider leaving more than just one bowl of water around just in case one gets knocked over. Do not use stainless steel or tin bowls for their water as these can heat up quickly. Make sure the water is left in the shade and if you are heading out for a few hours on a really hot day place some ice cubes in their bowl of water to help keep it cooler for longer.

Never Leave Your Dog In The Car

It does not have to be a hot day for the temperature of your car to rise quickly even with the windows down. The temperature in cars rise quickly and they can become like an oven for your dog so never make the mistake of leaving them in the car even for “just a minute” while you run an errand.

Provide Your Dog With Plenty Of Shade And Access To Cooler Areas

Provide your dog with shade and access to cooler areas so they have a place to get out of the sun and beat the heat. On extremely hot days it is best for you to keep your dog inside. It is always nice to “chill out” with your dog away from the heat.

Take Your Dog For A Swim

What better way to escape the heat than going for a swim. Hot summer days are not good for exercising your dog like you normally would at the park or going for a long run or walk. Swimming will cool the body temperature. Dogs can’t release heat by sweating the way humans do, heat and humidity can raise our dogs body temperatures to dangerous levels. Not only will your dog cool off by swimming but will get a good workout as well! For the older dog wading and gentle swimming can help bring the core temperature down.

Cool Vest for Dogs

A vest that helps keep your dog cool. K9 SWiM stock the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler -cooling vest which uses natural evaporative cooling to keep your dog cool. Soak it in cold water, wring it out, and fasten around your dog. Evaporative cooling exchanges the dog's heat as water evaporates from the coat's reservoir.

The Swamp Cooler's light color is designed to reflect heat from the sun. Combined with the evaporative cooling effect, the Swamp Cooler keeps dogs comfortable when temperatures rise. Auto-lock buckles on each side of the jacket provide easy on/off.

Symptoms Of Heat Stress in Dogs

The symptoms of heat stress can vary and they will display several signs:
•   Rapid panting or finding it hard to breath
•   Fast heart rate
•   Red or pale gums
•   Excessive drooling
•   Signs of distress
•   Lethargic or difficult for them to get up
•   Vomiting or diarrhoea

What Should You Do If Your Dog Show Signs of Heat Stress

Remove the dog from the hot area immediately. Take them to your veterinary. You can also lower their temperature by wetting them with cool water. CAUTION: Do NOT use very cold water as it can actually be counterproductive and cause more harm. Allow your dog access to cool water to drink but do not try to force feed them water as they may choke.

Remember prevention is the key!

Top 7 Tips To Keep Your Dog Happy This Christmas

4/12/2015

We are getting closer to the festive season where there will be lots of food, fun and festivities. You want to make sure your dog is happy and part of this. Not everything we do in the jolly season is safe for our canine friends. Here are our 7 top tips on how to keep your dog happy this Christmas.

1. Keep tinsel and decorations out of reach

These decorations are very tempting for dogs even if they are placed high on your tree. Make sure you keep an eye on your dog if they are anywhere near these because swallowing them can cause serious injury or even death.

2. Know which Christmas foods are bad for dogs

Christmas foods that we love can be toxic to your dog. Here are a few foods that you should NOT give your dog – chocolate, Christmas cake, grapes, raisins and nuts and NO ham bones as they are quite fatty and can lead to pancreatitis. Stick to treats that have been made for dogs as they love it and they are good for them. Love’em has some great treats and cookies created especially for dogs.

3. Secure your Christmas tree

A Christmas tree can easily be knocked down by your dog. Place your Christmas tree in a corner and secure the tree so it won’t be knocked causing your dog or anyone else injury.

4. Choose the perfect gift for your dog

The perfect gift for your dog is the practical gift. Why not buy your dog their own life jacket so you can be assured they are safe when they go swimming on holidays or in your own pool, K9 SWiM stock lots of healthy supplements and Hills Science Diet food so you can keep them healthy inside and out. We also stock fun water toys that are durable, colourful and floatable - the perfect gift for this summer.
Our Surf Dog robes are a must for this summer! Dries your dog quickly after their swim and also stops sand and water getting into your car!

5. Include your dog in celebrating Christmas and know when they need a rest

It is great to have your dog enjoying Christmas with family and friends but they also need space away from it all where they can rest and relax. Many dogs are afraid of fireworks and may panic or try to run away and injure themselves in the process so be sure they are safe and cannot get out. If your dog needs to be away from the celebrations make sure you spend some time walking and playing with them beforehand.

6. Organise a dog sitter

Friends, family and neighbours can be busy during the holiday season so organising a dog sitter will make sure your dog stays safe and happy while you are away.

7. Play with your dog

Your dog loves to spend time with you. It is not always the quantity but quality. Play their favourite game or take them to their favourite dog park to meet up with their friends. So play and be merry.

Dogs are part of the family so it is important that they feel safe and happy over the holiday season. We hope these tips help you keep your dog happy and safe over Christmas and keep their tail’s wagging!