Heartworms in Dogs

The heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis ) is a deadly parasite that is carried by mosquitoes. The highest infection rates are in areas within 150 miles of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and along the Mississippi River and its major tributaries. Other areas with large mosquito populations also have a high rate of infestation. Heartworm disease is present on every continent except Antarctica. Dogs should...

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Herbs for Your Dog

Debbie Ray - PedigreedPups.com


Herbology, basically, is the use of herbs in the treatment of many types of illness. Herein the emphasis of treatment is based strongly on the specific use of herbal roots, flowers and leaves to stimulate the healing process. Keep in mind that these herbs are not a form of drug(as in man-made forms, such as aspirin) but are strictly natural in content. Practiced for centuries, herbology is probably one of the most primitive and fundamental uses of specific remedies to treat various illnesses, known today.

How, though, does the knowledge of herbal alternatives tie in with owning an animal? Think about it for a moment. What do wild animals, or even your pets, typically do when they are not feeling up to par? Most instinctively seek out appropriate herbs when they are sick. How many times have you witnessed your dog eating grasses?


Many man-made drugs are simply compounds based upon active principles found in many herbs. One simple example could be caffeine found in coffee. Herbalists differ from most traditional medicinal methods at this point however. Herbalists believe in the use of the entire substance- not in simply the use of one part. They believe the whole is much greater than the sum of one or more parts.


Basically, herbs work much slower than traditional medicines(t.m.'s) though they do many things t.m.'s don't- such as detoxify the body, stimulate movement of the bowels or urination, and add vitamins and minerals to the patients system which are already greatly needed.


Herbal remedies have also been used to treat animals over the centuries for such illnesses as arthritis, worms, diarrhea/constipation, diabetes, epilepsy, mange and cataracts, among others. Juliette de Bairacli-Levy is an author who emphasizes the use of herbs in the treatment of many ailments in connection with pets. She also emphasizes the importance of freshly gathered herbs, natural diet and fasting.


Probably the biggest drawback to herbal therapy would be the amount which must be administered, the very frequent intervals of administration and the extended periods of time over which administration must occur. Additionally, many herbs do not taste good in their natural state and must be disguised in food. Still, if you are willing to carry out a complete program, administering "medications" at their proper intervals, herbal alternatives are very effective in treating and curing many types of ailments. For more information concerning herbs and their uses, contact your nearest herbalist or herbal store.
Article written and reprinted with permission of: http://www.pedigreedpups.com/ Purebred Dogs, Puppies and Dog Breeders - "Your New Best Friend" Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
About the author: http://www.pedigreedpups.com is a website offering the best purebred dog breed information, online resources and high-quality dog content for all dog owners, dog lovers and those considering dog ownership. Debbie is the owner of pedigreedpups.com, a dog lover, owner and dog breeder of many years.

Puppy Crate Training -- Fast Track to a Contented Dog

Puppy crate training is one of the most effective ways to housebreak your new puppy. Puppy crate training takes a little patience, but it's a good way to set your puppy on the right path. This method has an impressive track record. Be sure to prepare everything ahead of time. Even before you bring your new puppy home, have the puppy crate ready and waiting. The size of the crate is important. For proper puppy crate training, you should have plenty of room in the crate for the puppy to turn around, stand and lie down, but don't get one that's too big. Puppies feel uncomfortable in a crate that's...

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Small Dogs - Different Breeds, Different Personalities

Small dog breeds are great pets, but since their personalities are all different, it's a good idea to look at their individual characteristics to see if they fit with your lifestyle. Pomeranians: Pomeranians developed from a much larger dog breed and seem to have retained the mellow character. They are good with children if they have been raised with them from puppyhood. They are playful and active. They tend to bark and require daily grooming. Chihuahuas: Chihuahuas are an interesting small breed. I have raised several herds - and that is a good word for a group of chihuahuas - and their temperment...

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