Featured Articles
Dogs and Hybrid Vigour
Why does is seem that certain breeds of dogs are more likely to develop specific health problems than other breeds? For example, why are Doberman pinchers more likely to have heart problems than other breeds? You may or may not be familiar with the term “hybrid vigour”, but you have probably run across this concept before. In this article we will discuss how this term can be used to explain why various dog breeds are predisposed to developing certain health issues.
How are dog breeds created? If you think about it, all dog breeds descended from a single ancestor related to the modern wolf. The Chihuahua and the Great Dane, as well as the Yorkshire terrier and the Bull Mastiff all came from the same genetic background.
Vitamin C and Guinea Pigs
What do guinea pigs and people have in common? The answer is that they are both unable to make their own vitamin C. This means that they need vitamin C supplied in their diet in the correct amount every day …
Limber tail in dogs – Pet tip 140
Limber Tail Syndrome (AKA cold tail, dead tail, broken wag) is quite common among some breeds of hunting dogs, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Pointers, Setters, and Beagles. It is a condition in which the tail becomes limp and sometimes painful after exertion, particularly during inclement weather, swimming, or in an under-conditioned dog. It is a condition well-known to hunting dog owners and trainers, but not commonly seen by veterinarians. The syndrome is characterized by the swelling of the muscles at the base of the tail (the wagging muscles, which are also used heavily during swimming when the tail may serve as a rudder). These muscles are bound to the tail by a tight ring of connective tissue. As the muscles swell and expand, the connective tissue begins to serve as a tourniquet – cutting off normal blood flow.
When increased pressure within a confined space results in reduced blood flow, it is known as a ‘compartment syndrome’.
Tip 71 – Cat purring – Why do cats purr?
Purring is the rhythmic vibrating sound that all cats can produce when they are in a content state. It is an instinctual response in domestic cats that can be seen at the onset of life when the newborn kitten purrs …
Tip – 19 – Cat urinated on my floor/carpet
Cleaning cat urine stains
Assuming there is no medical problem with your cat, cats urinate where they are not supposed to for many reasons. Some common reasons are;…
The litter box is too dirty and/or the litter box has a
Tip – 35 – Babies and cats – babies and kittens – pregnancy and cats
There is no reason whatsoever why you need to get rid of your feline friend if you become pregnant or if you have babies or small children. There are many myths out there about cats and babies and the number …
Pica in Dogs and Cats – Pet tip 151
You’ve probably heard about a million pet owners claim “my dog eats anything” or “my cat eats everything”. Maybe you’ve even said so yourself. More often than not, when people make these statements, we chock it up to exaggeration. People …
Puppies that Chew – Pet tip 159
Chewing is a natural activity that most puppies like to engage in. It gives them something to do with their surplus of energy and it also relieves the discomfort of teething. The problem with this 100% natural activity is that …
