Grooming The Dog

Good hygiene improves dog health and keeps your pooch looking stunning. Here are a few tips to keep him looking his best.

Accustom your dog to being brushed. For the first few times, use a soft bristled brush and talk to your dog calmly and softly while brushing.

Use long straight strokes going in the direction of the fur. Going against the fur can sometimes irritate the skin and agitate your dog. Begin with shallow stokes to remove any knots or tangles which may be on the surface of the fur and then work deeper into the fur.

Different brushes and combs are suited for different coat types. Check with a dog groomer or your local pet shop for the best grooming tool for your pet's coat.

For an after brushing treat, apply a bit of dog moisturizer to your dog's coat and skin for a healthy coat and to help alleviate dry skin. An after grooming dog treat is nice too.

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Feeding The Dog

We all want to make our dogs happy, but making your dog's day by overfeeding him can lead to health problems in the long run. Here are a few things to keep in mind when dinner rolls around.

If your dog loves to eat, rather than giving her large food portions once or twice a day, try breaking it up into more frequent smaller portions. Smaller meals are easier to digest and will keep your dog energized.

When purchasing pet food, check the labels to make certain they are not expired. Also review the contents. For good general health, dogs need certain ingredients such as fatty acids, protein, fiber, vitamin E and beta carotene.

Empty and wash your dog's food dish after each meal. Cleaning the bowl helps deter bacteria such as E coli from growing in your dog's dish. For a thorough cleaning, put your dog's dish in the dishwasher.

For more information on food and your dog go to: http://www.dogclothes-apparel.com/sites/ARTICLESandINFORMATION.html

Our secret agent dog of the day is wearing the dogclothes-apparel.com Duffel Trench Coat in beige (also available in red). Perfect for a full day of squirrel sleuthing.

Cassie the Dog

Meet Cassie - one of the wonderful contestants in our November dog photo contest. To vote for Cassie, visit http://www.dogclothes-apparel.com/sites/PhotoPage.html and cast your vote. The winning dog gets to augment his or her wardrobe complements of dogclothes-apparel.com

Sleeping In

If only we humans could rest as much as our pampered, furry friends. On a whole, dogs tend to sleep up to thirteen hours a day, 24% of which is active REM sleep. But are they dreaming? We wish we knew! A dog's sleep schedule and amount will vary depending upon his activity level and the level of activity around him - with active dogs sleeping less than their more sedate brethren. Small dogs especially enjoy an area of their own where they can rest safe and secure out harms way. Here are a few tips to help make your dog's nap time even more enjoyable.

Just like people, a dog enjoys a good bed for a restful sleep. Make certain your dog's bed is away from busy areas and out of drafts.

During cold winter nights, warm your dog's blanket in the dryer and then place it over your dog for a snuggly warm feeling.

Make certain your dog's bed is large (or small) enough for your pet. A bed which is too small will make your pet feel restless and uncomfortable.

If your dog prefers your bed to his, try placing an old shirt or something with your scent on it in his bed.

Our model of the day is wearing the www.dogclothes-apparel.com Faux Mink Pom Hoodie in Pink (also available in blue for the more manly look).

Pampering Older Dogs

We love our dogs dearly and hate to see them get older. Here are a few ways to make your senior pet happy and comfortable.

One of the best ways to pamper your older dog is with heated bedding. This is especially good for arthritic dogs or dogs with joint problems. If you don't have a heated bed, add a warm water bottle to your dog's bed or apply it directly to aching joints.

Purchase a ramp to help your dog climb stairs, get on your bed, or get into your car or truck. Ramps should have good traction and be large and sturdy enough for your dog to ascend and descend without falling off or the ramp wobbling.

Raise food dishes and water bowls so your dog does not need to bend his neck to eat. Older dogs also tend to drink less water than younger dogs. Place a few water bowls around your home. Your dog will be more inclined to drink if water is readily available.

Check with your vet about glucosamine for your dog's joints and multivitamins for nutritional needs.

Go jump in the lake. Even older dogs need exercise. Swimming can be one of the best forms of exercise for older dogs since it is easier on arthritic joints.

Our model of the day is wearing the sporty Red Plaid Hooded Dog Jacket from www.dogclothes-apparel.com. Who said keeping warm needs to be boring?

Travels with Dog

With the holidays fast approaching, we figured a few pet friendly travel tips may be appropriate to the season.

When flying, try to book direct flights for you and your pet. This will eliminate some of the stress of running through airports and changing planes - for both of you.

Avoid placing food in your dog's carrier. Travel can sometimes cause your pet to have an upset stomach. If he eats, things will only get worse.

If you are placing your dog in a carrier to take on board the plane, remember to check with the airline first to confirm what size carriers they accept and any weight limits they may have. Space under the seat may vary depending upon what plane is being used.

If you are in need of a carrier, call the airlines. Some airlines sell hard and soft side carriers for a reasonable price - and you know they will fit under the seat. When you book your flight, ask if you may reserve a carrier for purchase at the airport so it will be there when you arrive.

For larger dogs who must travel in the baggage compartment, avoid collapsible crates and look for something more sturdy such as aluminum.

Book the flight for you and your dog as early as possible. Some airlines limit the number of pets they allow on each flight.

Better to be safe than sorry. Even if you are carrying your dog aboard the plane, make certain your dog has an ID tag and that your name, address, and contact information are also on the carrier.


Our lovely model is wearing a www.dogclothes-apparel.com Round Pocket Hoodie. Perfect for the jet-setting dog.

Dog Clothes to Keep Your Dog Warm

Now that Fall is upon us, visit www.dogclothes-apparel.com for a wide selection of dog coats, sweaters, and dog hoodies to keep our short-coated friends warm. Dog clothes not only make your dog fabulous, they also serve a practical purpose for the health and well being of your pampered pup.

When it comes to weather and temperature fluctuations, one must be mindful of our smaller and shorter-furred friends. Small dogs often lack the mass to maintain a steady body temperature and shorter-coated breeds have less insulating fur causing them to catch a chill more rapidly. In winter, wind gusting at ground level picks up moisture. Once damp or wet, fur loses it's ability to insulate causing your small dog's temperature to drop. For longer-coated dogs, regular brushing helps prevent matted fur caused by wet weather and stimulates oils which keep your dog's skin moisturized.

Dog clothes, such as sweaters, coats, and tees offer your pet various degrees of protection from the elements, as do shoes and boots for truly inclement weather. Not only will your dog be ready for his or her close-up, but dog clothes will keep your dog, large or small, warm and well year round.

Meet Rocky - another of our cute contestants in our October photo contest. To vote for Rocky, visit http://www.dogclothes-apparel.com/sites/PhotoPage.html and cast your vote. The winning dog gets to augment his or her wardrobe complements of dogclothes-apparel.com

It's Oktober in October

October is almost over and we wanted to share another pampered pup from our photo contest.

This is Oktober in his Halloween bear costume.

To vote for Oktober, visit http://www.dogclothes-apparel.com/sites/PhotoPage.html and cast your vote. The winning dog gets to augment his or her wardrobe complements of dogclothes-apparel.com

Only 6 more shopping days 'til the Great Pumpkin. Come visit us.

Identifying & Controlling Your Dog’s Allergies

Between 15% to 20% of all dogs in the United States suffer from allergies. As in humans, allergies may manifest in different ways producing varied symptoms in your pet. Knowing the signs of allergy suffering will bring your dog faster relief and happier days. As with any pet related medical issue, always consult your veterinarian if you suspect a problem.

Food Allergies
Dogs can develop allergies or food sensitivities at any point during their lives. Often, dogs eat the same type of food for years, so their diet may be overlooked. The most common problem causing foods include:
Soy products
Beef
Chicken
Corn
Wheat
Pork
Milk
Whey
Eggs
Fish
Lamb
Chemical Preservatives
Artificial Sugars

Symptoms of Food Allergies often include:
Itchy Skin
Ear Inflammations
Ear Scratching
Frequent Licking or Biting of Paws
Anal Itching
Face Rubbing
Head Shaking
Loss of Appetite
Coughing

Remedy:
Once food allergies have been determined to be the cause of your dog’s symptoms, eliminating the potential allergens from your pet’s diet is the first course of action. Begin by excluding foods which are known instigators (see list above). Look for either a commercial product which contains ingredients your dog has not eaten before or prepare home-made food for your dog consisting of two parts starch to one part protein. Suggested protein alternatives include duck, salmon, venison, or rabbit. Potatoes are suggested as an alternative starch. All ingredients should be served boiled and fed in normal proportions to your dog’s regular diet. Once prepared, the food can be individually packaged, frozen, and then used as needed. Home cooked diets are generally nutritionally incomplete and should only be used temporarily during the test period.

One item at a time, begin adding ingredients present in your dog’s former food to his new food. If symptoms reappear, the food allergen should be easily identified. During the test period, make certain your dog eats only the new food. Eliminate treats, dog bones, table scraps, rawhide, chews, vitamins, etc. Once the offending food has been identified, look for a commercial food which does not contain that ingredient.

Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis, or canine atopic dermatitis, is an allergic skin disease generally caused by an immune hypersensitivity to environmental substances such as mold spores or dust mites. Indications your dog has this sensitivity generally present themselves by the age of two. Food and flea allergies, as well as parasitic infections, should be ruled out first as their symptoms are similar to atopic dermatitis.

Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis include:
Excessive Grooming
Licking or Chewing of the Paws, Stomach, or between the Toes
Change of Stomach Skin Color to an Irritated Red
Ears which are Red or Hot to the Touch

Remedy:
Skin allergy testing can be conducted by your veterinarian to determine your dog’s specific allergy.

Flea Allergy
Caused by the saliva secreted by the flea, a flea allergy is the most common form of dog allergy. Sometimes the bite of a single flea may cause your dog to launch into fits of self-chewing and biting lasting for five to seven days.

Symptoms of Flea Allergy Include Severe Biting & Chewing of:
The Tail and Surrounding Area
Stomach
Inside hind legs

Remedy:
A skin test can be performed to confirm your dog is allergic to flea saliva. Once a flea allergy has been confirmed, a strict control regimen should be initiated. Flea control products are safer now than they once were with options ranging from topical solutions to pills, shampoos and sprays. Garlic and Brewers Yeast have also been touted to keep fleas away as have weekly topical applications of lavender and eucalyptus oils. However these solutions have not been scientifically confirmed.

Whatever remedy you choose, consult your veterinarian first. Overly strong flea killing preparations may cause your dog more harm than good. Additionally, regular dog grooming (through your dog’s coat and down to the skin) will help find and eliminate fleas and flea droppings.

Inhalant Allergy
Inhalant allergies are substances in the environment which cause your dog’s immune system to react, releasing antibodies containing histamines, serotonin, and leukotrienes. Pollens from trees, grass, ragweed as well as mold spores, chemicals, dust mites and wood chips in pet bedding may cause your dog substantial discomfort.

One clue to diagnosing this allergy is timing. Is your dog’s allergy seasonal or year round? If you know to what your dog is allergic, avoidance is the best remedy. To help mitigate possible allergens, use dehumidifiers to reduce mold, air conditioners during pollen season, air cleaners with HEPA filters for dust and pollen residue, and vacuum frequently.

Inhalant Allergy Symptoms Include:
Biting and scratching at the body
Red or Irritated ear flaps which are hot to the touch
Head shaking
Rubbing the face
Severe scratching or biting of the flank, groin, paws and armpit regions

Remedy:
Providing your dog relief may come in the form of a cool bath with colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, eucalyptus, or a medicated shampoo. However these will only provide your dog temporary relief and will need to be repeated frequently.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are natural anti-inflammatory agents which have proven successful in approximately 20% of dogs tested. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish oils such as Cod and Omega 6 fatty acids come from plants containing gamma-linolenic acid – such as evening primrose. Antihistamines have also proven effective in dogs with allergies with one short-term effect being lethargy or tiredness.

Corticosteriods (steroids) are substances which interfere with the function of the immune system and reduce itching by reducing the inflammation. They also affect all the organs in your dog’s body and should be used under medical supervision for short periods of time or in small doses.

Blood tests and intradermal skin testing can also be performed to judge specific reactions to allergens.

Contact Allergies
Contact allergies are the least common of dog allergies. Items such as flea collars, grass, shampoos, plants, chemicals, and wood chips may cause allergic reactions. By eliminating the irritant, symptoms should disappear.

If you think your dog may suffer from allergies, keep a journal. Make notes as to the symptoms, their severity, and when they occur. This will help your veterinarian pinpoint the problem and help your dog achieve a speedier recovery.

www.dogclothes-apparel.com

Dog Clothes

Dog clothes not only make your dog fabulous, they also serve a practical purpose for the health and well being of your pampered pup.

When it comes to weather and temperature fluctuations, one must be mindful of our smaller and shorter-furred friends. Small dogs often lack the mass to maintain a steady body temperature and shorter-coated breeds have less insulating fur causing them to catch a chill more rapidly. In winter, wind gusting at ground level picks up moisture. Once damp or wet, fur loses it's ability to insulate causing your small dog's temperature to drop. For longer-coated dogs, regular brushing helps prevent matted fur caused by wet weather and stimulates oils which keep your dog's skin moisturized.

Dog clothes, such as sweaters, coats, and tees offer your pet various degrees of protection from the elements, as do shoes and boots for truly inclement weather. Not only will your dog be ready for his or her close-up, but dog clothes will keep your dog, large or small, warm and well year round.

Yea for Buddy the Dog!!

Thanks to everyone who has left comments about our Dogclothes-apparel.com blog. We really appreciate the feedback and have enjoyed looking at your sites.

Every month, Dogclothes-apparel.com sponsors a dog photo contest and asks other dog lovers to send in photographs of their dogs so visitors to our site can vote on them. Well, we thought we would share the winner for September - Buddy. In addition to being really cute, Buddy is sporting one of his (actually his mother's) purchases from Dogclothes-apparel.com - our Red Plaid Hooded Dog Jacket. Living in Minnesota, it's understandable he might need a jacket or two .

If anyone has a dog to show off, we would love to add your picture to our site. Just go to www.dogclothes-apparel.com and click on the Dog Photo Contest link. In the days to come, we will be posting some of the contestants for October.

Again, thanks for reading our blog.

Dog Teeth

Just like human teeth, the proper care of puppy and dog teeth can help your pet lead a long and happy life. When puppies are three (3) to six (6) weeks old their first set of 28 teeth arrive. The 42 permanent teeth begin to come in at approximately four (4) months. First the incisors, then the canines, premolars, and finally the molars at six to seven months. Just like a baby, teething is an uncomfortable time for your pup and can cause him to be a bit grouchy, drool, and occasionally lose his appetite. It is also the time for you to hide your expensive shoes.

Each type of tooth serves a different purpose. Your dog uses her incisors to groom and to pick meat from bones, her canines to pick up objects, and her incisors to rip pieces of meat. Dogs use their premolars to chew bones, toys, and rawhide treats. Molars are their crushing teeth.

Chew toys and treats offer your dog a way to keep his teeth healthy. Like people, dogs can have problems with their teeth ranging from gum infections, to tartar, to tooth decay. Dogs with a diet high in soft foods run a greater risk of food getting stuck in the pockets at the base of their teeth. This accumulation can lead to receding gums, infections, bad breath, and in more extreme cases, tooth loss. Tartar, if left untreated can also cause gum disease and tooth loss.

Hard rubber or nylon toys, raw hide, and chew bones help your dog's teeth stay healthy and give you a happier, more vibrant dog.

Saving Your Dog When Disaster Strikes

Help could not come soon enough for the residents of New Orleans and the surrounding Gulf areas. But for devoted pet owners rescue came at a price…leave your dog behind. Having a plan in place before disaster strikes can save both you and your dog’s lives. Here’s what to do now.


General Helpful Hints

1 If you live in an apartment, consider putting an “animals inside” sign on your door. In case of fire, your pet’s chances of survival may increase if the firemen know.

2 Keep carrying cases, leads, etc. in an easily accessible location. If you must leave quickly, time spent looking for these items is time lost.


Know Your Neighbors

The help of a good neighbor can sometimes be your first line of defense.

1. Exchange your house or apartment key with a trusted neighbor. Exchanging keys with a neighbor offers the benefit of proximity. Should an unexpected crisis arise, your neighbor can reach your pets quickly. Friends or family may not know about the problem until it is too late.

2. Make a Plan. Discuss what to do in case of emergency. Do you have a cell phone? Make certain your neighbor has the number as well as any additional telephone numbers where you can be reached such as work or family. Write them on an index card in bold, large print, and laminate it.

3. Fido, Buffy, Max, Celia, Snorky… If you have more than one pet, make certain your neighbor has the following information:

a. The Number of Pets You Have. If they know how many pets they need to find, chances increase greatly all will be rescued.

b. What Type of Animals You Have. If Celia is a goldfish and your neighbor is looking for a dog, Celias’ chances of rescue drop. Make certain you are clear regarding the type of animal your neighbor should find.

c. Location of Pets In Your Home. This is important for caged animals such as birds, snakes, hamsters, etc. Do you keep your dog penned in the backyard? Let them know. The less time your neighbor spends searching for your pets, the more time they have to get them out quickly and safely.

d. Hi. My Name Is… If your neighbor can’t find your pet, they may respond if their names are called. Will they come when you whistle? Tell your neighbor. The more specific information they have, the better your pet’s chance of rescue.


On the Road Again

Before you leave for a vacation or an extended trip, talk with the person who will be caring for your pets. Make certain it is someone you trust such as a responsible family member, friend, or neighbor. If you use a pet sitting service, check their credentials before you leave. Ask for names of other clients who have used their services and call them to see if they were pleased. Better to know before you go rather than returning to an unpleasant surprise.

Discuss specifically what your sitter would do if a crisis arises and always leave contact numbers where you can be reached (hotel, cell phone, etc).
Points to consider:

1. If a problem occurs, will your sitter take your pets until you return? If not, give them the name and telephone number of a friend, family member, kennel or doggy spa they can contact to take your pets.

2. If an evacuation occurs, will your sitter take your pets?

3. In case of evacuation, give your sitter the telephone number of a family member or friend outside the effected area who can act as a contact. If you and your sitter cannot reach each other, you can each call the contact who can help relay information.

4. If one must leave the area, prearrange with family or friends within driving distance to take your pets. If you have more than one pet, ask in advance to make certain they can house all of them. If not, find others who can.


Name, Rank and Serial Number

Make certain your pets have proper identification. Include your last name and telephone number as well as the pet’s name on the ID tag. If you have one, consider using a cell phone number in case you and your pet are separated and you can’t go home.


Your Little Black Book

Begin collecting important telephone numbers and information now so you have them if you need them. To gather this information, conduct an Internet search for your area or contact animal associations such as the ASPCA or The Humane Society. Your list should also include your vet and a 24 hour animal hospital.

1. Pet Friendly Shelters: Many shelters may not accept pets in need of a temporary safe haven, but some do. Find the ones in your areas just in case.

2. Dog Friendly Lodging: Should you be displaced, know where to go. If you can’t reach friends or family, the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of hotels and motels which accept pets can be a life saver.

3. Animal Rescue Centers. Even the best laid plans go astray. If this happens, call your local animal shelter or vet and ask if they can provide assistance. If you have more than one pet, confirm that they will be able to take them all.

4. Here are a few starting points for more information.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
American Veterinary Medical Foundation
American Humane Association
Petfinder.com


If You Must Evacuate

If the situation becomes so dire you must leave, consider the following. Generally, time is of the essence.

1. Leave as quickly as possible and take your pets with you! Don’t leave your pets behind thinking you can return and get them. Very often, you will not be permitted to return until the crisis is over.

2. If you are driving, load up the animals and hit the road. If you can’t take your pets where you are going, use your back up family member or friend plan first. Then your dog friendly lodging or rescue shelter options. If worse comes to worse, you may be able to find someone along the way who can help you.
If you cannot take your pet(s) to a safe place and you MUST evacuate, help improve your pet’s chances to stay alive. Make certain dogs are unchained or uncaged. Pets left alone will rely on their natural instincts to survive.