Blog

Before we get into the nitty gritty about pet DNA tests, let’s do a quick, brush-up science lesson. DNA is the acronym for deoxyribonucleic acid. “DNA is the molecule [that exists] in most of the body’s cells that carries the genetic code for the individual,” says Dr. Brown. Basically, DNA is like IKEA assembly instructions for all living organisms. It dictates how all living organisms create proteins that help us develop, function and grow.,Jump to section What is DNA? What Are Pet DNA Tests? Do Pet DNA Tests Successfully Identify Breeds? What Are the Benefits of Pet DNA Tests? What Are the Disadvantages of Pet DNA Tests? How Do Dog DNA Tests Differ From Cat DNA Tests? How Reliable Are Pet DNA Tests? Which Pet DNA Tests Are Most Accurate? How Can Pet Parents Choose the Right Pet DNA Tests? How Should Pet Parents Interpret Pet DNA Test Results? What Is the Best Way to Collect Pet DNA? How Often Do Cat or Dog DNA Tests Need to Be Done?

Puppies are irresistible, especially when they are very young. Who can resist sweet puppy kisses from a cute little ball of fur? While your heart might yearn for a baby puppy, your head should prevail when it comes to adding a young dog to your family. The puppy’s age and your lifestyle should be important factors in your decision. Here’s how to know when you can take a puppy home.

Grapes and raisins are both highly toxic to dogs and can cause serious illness, even if a pup eats only a single grape or raisin. New veterinary studies suggest that the likely toxic component in grapes and raisins is tartaric acid. Typically, with other poisons, smaller dogs are at a higher risk since only a small amount may cause toxicity, but with grapes and raisins, it’s hard to predict how each dog may react to the amount they ingest, as the concentration of tartaric acid in a grape or raisin may vary. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, founder of Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas, says the main effect of eating grapes or raisins is on a dog’s kidneys—and that eating just a small amount can lead to kidney damage or acute kidney failure, requiring prompt medical treatment. The most common symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning in a dog include: Lethargy or weakness Vomiting or diarrhea Loss of appetite Increased drinking and urination (or no urine production) Abdominal pain Dehydration (signs may include dry or sticky gums, drooling, thick saliva, dry nose, panting, and sunken eyes) Bad or strong-smelling breath Neurological signs, such as muscle tremors, a head tilt, dizziness, or seizures Due to varying amounts of the toxins in grapes and raisins, there’s no telling how many grapes it takes to create a toxic dose. Some dogs will go into kidney failure after consuming a small amount, while others will have no side effects after eating a lot more. Because it’s impossible to predict what will happen, the best course of action is to keep all grapes and raisins out of paw’s reach. Grapes, raisins and dogs just don’t mix! Pet parents should also keep a close eye on their pup to make sure they don’t go counter-surfing for foods that contain grapes or raisins, such as salads, cookies and cakes. Beyond the toxicity of grapes and raisins, these foods often have added ingredients like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, plus considerable amounts of sugar that can also cause health problems.,Jump to section Dangers of Grapes and Raisins for Dogs What To Do If Your Dog Eats Grapes or Raisins What Human Foods Can My Dog Eat? FAQs About Dogs and Grapes

I once adopted an adult rescue dog named Franklin. He had lived a very sheltered life where he rarely left his home and got no training. He showed symptoms of separation anxiety, barked and lunged on leash at other dogs, and attacked gardening equipment. Clearly, his former caretakers were unable to or simply didn’t know how to socialize an older dog. I knew I needed to reduce Franklin’s stress to improve his behavior, so we embarked on a focused training and socialization program. About six months later, Franklin was fine when left alone, great with other dogs and calm around gardening equipment. The improvement was so dramatic that strangers regularly complimented me on how well-behaved Franklin was. Is your dog like Franklin, well past puppyhood but a bit in need of dog socializing? Don’t panic; there’s hope! With the right training, you can socialize an older dog.

Each of your dog’s nails contains a core called the quick, which carries nerves and blood supply.   “Each of your dog’s nails has a pink center called the quick, which carries blood vessels and nerves,” explains Dr. Emily Gamm, DVM, associate veterinarian at South Sioux Animal Hospital in South Sioux City, Nebraska. “Think of your own fingernails—if you cut into the pink part, it hurts and may bleed. The same is true for dogs.”  Aside from trimming too short, nails may bleed if they split or crack from being too long. They can also become injured if your dog plays on rough surfaces like pavement or gravel.   Some dogs may be more prone to breakages than others. Dr. Gamm explains that working dogs or those who do agility use their claws like how an athlete uses cleats on their shoes. These dogs may wear down their nails and need trims less frequently. But they may also be more prone to breaking or splitting a nail, which can cause bleeding.  Dr. Gamm lists a few other common reasons for nail blowouts, including nails getting caught during play, on clothes, in high-pile rugs, on wood floors, or on fences.   Dogs with dark nails are especially tricky to trim because the quick is harder to see, which makes small, careful trims more important.   “With dark nails, you often can’t see the quick,” says Dr. Gamm. “Trim just a little at a time and look at the nail end-on. When you start to see a dark spot appear in the center, stop cutting—you’re getting close to the quick.”   She recommends using a Dremel or nail grinder for extra control, or having your vet or groomer demonstrate safe trimming first.  ,A bloody dog nail can look dramatic. At minimum, you’ll notice some blood droplets on the floor. At worst, there’s blood everywhere—on the furniture, your pup, your clothes or car—and lots of licking can make things worse.  A bleeding nail can put any pet parent into a panic.   Stressful as it may seem, in most cases, it’s OK to administer treatment at home if you have the right tools and take calm steps.   Knowing what causes dog nail bleeding and how to stop it will help you keep your pup safe and comfortable.