Though its name would suggest it is caused by worms, ringworm is actually a fungal infection of the skin. It's quite common in dogs, and sadly, it can be passed from dogs onto humans and other mammals. If your dog develops the itchy, red, hairless, circular patches associated with ringworm, the best thing to do is take him to your vet for treatment with fungicides. But beyond using the fungicide creams and shampoos your vet recommends, there are three other steps you'll want to take:
- Summer is the time to be outside and enjoying the fresh air, but on those too hot days, it's time to find some shade or cool air. The same should go for your furry buddy as well. Your dog should be taken care of during those hot summer months. See below for some safety tips to remember for your dog this summer: Provide Shade Be sure when you have your dog outside that he has plenty of shade to escape the heat from the sun.
- If your cat is clawing apart your furniture or causing damage to the carpet, having him or her declawed is an option. However, since there are potential side effects of declawing--like arthritis and infections--most vets recommend trying other methods of dealing with your cat's claws before you resort to declawing. Here are two strategies you can try over the coming weeks. If one works, you may not need to make that surgical declawing appointment after all.
- After coming home from work, you discovered that your dog got up onto the counter and ate the chocolate dessert that was left out. Because you have heard that chocolate is poisonous to dogs, you may start to panic and wonder what to do next. If so, ask yourself the following three questions to assess the situation and gather information needed if you take them to the vet. What Type Of Chocolate Did Your Dog Eat?
- Cleaning your dog's teeth is a must-do in order to help prevent dental issues such as gingivitis, rotting teeth or tooth loss in your pup. Although your dog may not willingly open his mouth for the toothbrush and cleaning, you do need to try to get the job done. Starting when your pup is young will help, but if you're a late starter with brushing your dog's teeth, you'll need to start slowly to get your dog used to it.