Lucky Canine Hints and Information

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Please note that Lucky's Canine Cafe disclaims all liability (including any injuries, damages or losses) resulting from the use of the information provided on this page. The information contained on this page is offered as a helpful service. It is not intended as medical counsel or taking the place of professional guidance. Please seek the services of a competent veterinarian at the first indication of problems.

For those who have questions about the article in the September 2, 2007 edition of the Parade magazine or saw the clip on the Today Show where they stated that you should not feed your dog milk or cheese. Some dogs have problems digesting milk and milk products because they do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase ( just like humans-aka lactose intoleratant). The easiest way you can tell if your furry kid has a lactose issue is they will probably suffer from diarrhea or will become constipated after ingesting the milk or milk product, in these cases please use CAUTION, be aware and be responsble. However, in most cases small amounts of milk and milk products will not bother your dog.

Handy Canine Hints

Canine Constipation: Some canines suffer from chronic constipation. It is extremely uncomfortable for them & they will need to go to the vet to be "expressed". My male Bichon Frise suffered from this. I asked my vet if I could sprinkle a SMALL AMOUNT of powdered natural fiber laxative (i.e. Metamucil) on his dry food every time I fill up his bowl, she said I could try it. I did, it has been ten years & Eddie has never suffered from constipation again.

Canine Ear Infections: Use equal parts vinegar and water. Dip cotton swab in & GENTLY clean out ear, be careful how far into the canal you go. Medicated baby powder the ear immediately after to help keep the ear dry (also helps with the smell too).

Canine Diarrhea: First, try small amounts of canned pumpkin (no other ingredients but pumpkin-see label), dispense one teaspoon to one tablespoon (depending on size of dog) once in the AM & another in the PM (tip: you can freeze the unused portion if you wish). Only feed your dog SMALL PORTIONS of bland food such as boiled chicken & plain white rice (no treats or dog food). If your dog will not eat the pumpkin (tip: drizzle with honey-it may change their mind), you can try Pepto-Bismol. HOWEVER, be sure to contact your veterinarian, Pepto-Bismol contains aspirin, which some dogs are allergic to. If you are certain your dog is NOT ALLERGIC to aspirin, dispense one teaspoon at a time, up to three times a day. Treatment should only be needed for 1-2 days. If diarrhea persists or worsens, contact your veterinarian. - Patricia MacLeod, Albany, NY

Canine Minor Cuts: Sometimes dogs have cuts and they have a bad reaction to the ointment you put on. Use honey, it soothes, cleans, & quickly heals minor cuts. Works for people too!

Canine Minor Skin Irritations: For minor skin rashes and irritations try medicated baby powder.

Canine Raw Paw Lickers: Many times when your furry friend licks their paws raw, they are probably suffering from a grass allergy. Simply wipe their paws when they come in from the outdoors.

Canine Threw Up and Doesn't Want Treats: Sometimes when my dogs have thrown up (not a serious illness-always listen to your instincts). I give them a doggie ice cream; it helps soothe & settle the stomach, & provides hydration to their body.

Foods Dogs Should Avoid

-Chocolate

-Ginger (in pregnant dogs)

-Garlic (small amounts OK)

-Grapes or Raisins

-Macadamia nuts

-Mushrooms (some varities OK but be sure)

-Nutmeg

-Onions

Wheat and Milk Allergies

Wheat and wheat by-products contain a naturally occurring protein called gluten. Some dogs are allergic to this protein. It is not that wheat is hard to digest, or wheat is not good for dogs, it is simply that some dogs have a reaction to gluten. Some people do as well..

Milk and milk products contain lactose, a sugar found in milk. Some dogs may not be able to easily digest milk products. It is not because milk is bad for dogs, it is because some dogs do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase. Some people also suffer from this deficiency.