FAQs

For more detailed information, we recommend that you read this article on the Sit Stay website.

Handouts given during the “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” presentation

From the Association of Professional Dog Trainers:

APDT: Dog Park Etiquette

APDT: Dog Park Body Language

From The Dog Gurus:

TDG: Safe Play – Client Card

TDG: Is My Dog Happy?

TDG: The Environment of Off Leash Dog Play

From MayCastle Consulting:

Heat Index Chart

Understanding Dog Behavior

The Canine Ladder of Aggression

Dog to English Translation Chart

The Ladder of Aggression

The Ladder of Aggression is a depiction of the gestures that any dog will give in response to an escalation of perceived stress and threat, from very mild social interaction and pressure, to which blinking and nose licking are appropriate responses, to severe, when overt aggression may well selected. The purpose of such behaviour is to deflect threat and restore harmony and the presence of appeasing and threat-averting behaviour in the domestic dog’s repertoire is essential to avoid the need for potentially damaging aggression. The dog is a social animal for whom successful appeasement behaviour is highly adaptive and it is used continually and routinely in every-day life.

It is most important to realise that these gestures are simply a context and response-dependant sequence which will culminate in threatened or overt aggression, only if all else fails. Contrary to persistent misinformation, the gestures identified are nothing to do with a purported dominant or submissive state relative to companions. In all dogs, inappropriate social responses to appeasement behaviour will result in its devaluing and the necessity, from a dog’s perspective, to move up the ladder. Aggression is therefore created in any situation where appeasement behaviour is chronically misunderstood and not effective in obtaining the socially expected outcome. Dogs may progress to overt aggression within seconds during a single episode if the perceived threat occurs quickly and at close quarters, or learn to dispense with lower rungs on the ladder over time, if repeated efforts to appease are misunderstood and responded to inappropriately. As a consequence, a so-called ‘unpredictable’ aggressive response, without any obvious preamble, may occur in any context which predicts inescapable threat to the dog, when in reality it was entirely predictable.

(Shepherd, K 2009. BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behaviour, 2nd edition.pages 13 – 16. Editors Debra F. Horwitz and Daniel S. Mills).

Kennel cough, otherwise known as canine cough, canine croup, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, canine parainfluenza infection, canine Bordetella bronchiseptica infection and even, I have heard,’canine whooping cough’ is a common respiratory disease affecting dogs, and related canine species, all around the world. Canine cough is a multifactorial disease caused by a variety of infectious disease organisms that attack the upper respiratory tract (throat, nose, trachea and bronchi) and exacerbated by numerous non-organism factors such as poor-ventilation, overcrowding, low-immunity, high stress, high dust levels and dry air conditions (low humidity). Common organisms implicated in kennel cough infections include the primary infectious disease organisms: parainfluenza 2 virus, canine adenovirus type 2, Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacteria) and various mycoplasma species as well as a range of secondary bacterial organisms including: Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Bordetella, Mycoplasma, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella and Pseudomonas. Occasionally, canineherpesviruses, reoviruses, canine adenovirus type 1 and even canine distemper virus havebeen associated with kennel cough symptoms in dogs.

Kennel cough is generally spread in conditions whereby large numbers of dogs are kept in close proximity to each other (pounds, shelters, pet shops, boarding kennels, breeding facilities, dog clubs, dog shows and multiple-dog households). Usually appearing in unvaccinated (and even vaccinated) dogs 3-10 days after exposure to infected dogs, the disease is characterised by infection and inflammation of the upper airways. Affected dogs develop a fever; enlarged throat and neck lymph nodes (generally not appreciated bytheir owners) and a cough. This cough is harsh and hacking (often described as ‘honking’ or ‘hoarse’) and severe, explosive bouts of coughing will often be followed with a gagging, retching action (expectoration), whereby the dog looks like it is attempting to bring something up. The pet may indeed bring up something (a patch of white foam or phlegm) but, more commonly, the animal will swallow the expectorant and you won’t see anything brought up. Bouts of coughing can often be so severe and persistent that owners will fear their dog is choking and/or unable to catch its breath!The severity and frequency of the coughing is often exacerbated by dry air conditions, heavy panting, exercise (exercised dogs pant dry, irritating air across their inflamed airway linings) and pressure on the throat (e.g. the owner pulling on a lead and collar). A watery nose and or eye discharge may also be seen. Generally, most animals affected with canine cough will still appear to be bright and active and healthy-looking to their owners, despite the nasty cough, however, some animals may become more sleepy and lethargic than normal and go off their food a bit, as a result of the fever and illness. Generally the disease is self limiting (it usually goes away on its own in 7 to 10 days) but, occasionally, some dogs will progress to severe secondary complications, including pneumonia or chronic, long-term airway infection and irritation (a harsh cough that, quite simply, won’t go away).

Information from: Pet Informed

Credit: https://www.slideshare.net/KanwarpalSinghDhillo/kennel-cough-78727484/11?src=clipshare

  
 

Hypertherrmia in dogs (body temperature greater than 103.5°F), is typically caused by EXTERNAL sources (not a fever)

Causes of hyperthermia in dogs

• Not being able to pant efficiently to blow off heat. This may be seen secondary to airway problems.
• Factors that predispose to heat stroke including obesity, airway breathing problems, inappropriate exercise (in excess, in hot or humid weather conditions), dark-colored fur, etc.
• Toxin exposure. Certain toxins cause tremors that result in secondary hyperthermia such as compost, moldy food, snail and slug bait, antidepressants, ADD/ADHD medications, chocolate, etc. Other types of toxins cause the body to develop inappropriate hyperthermia without the tremors – this can be seen with used hops poisoning (from homemade brewing kits).
• Certain drugs. Rarely, certain veterinary anesthetic drugs can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs. Certain breeds such as greyhounds and Labrador retrievers may potentially be more at risk.

Treatment of hyperthermia in dogs

Prompt treatment for hyperthermia is necessary; if the body temperature exceeds 105-106°F (40.6—41.1°C), it can result in cellular injury to the body.

Treatment includes:

• Aggressive cooling down to a temperature of 103.5°F (39.7°C)
• Thermoregulation
• Cool intravenous (IV) fluids
• Blood work monitoring
• Anti-vomiting medication
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Plasma transfusions
• Antibiotics
• Blood pressure and heart rate monitoring
• Symptomatic supportive care
• Anti-seizure medication if needed

3 tips to prevent hyperthermia

• If you notice any medical problems such as a change in bark, abnormal breathing or a raspy or snoring type of breathing, go in for a veterinary exam. The sooner a medical problem is diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated.
• Prevent obesity. Over half our dogs are obese nowadays, and this contributes to hyperthermia. Keep your pet lean. When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian about a change in diet (e.g., less calories). More importantly, increase the amount of exercise your dog gets!
• Exercise appropriately. Rollerblading with most dogs is a no-no. That’s because dogs have to increase their work of exercise (and breathing) to keep up with you. While I’m all for exercising your dog (for both weight loss and environmental enrichment), please make sure to avoid peak heat hours (i.e., 10am-4pm). Instead, when it’s hot out, exercise your dog early in the morning or early in the evening to avoid hyperthermia. Also, avoid exercise when it’s approaching 80°F (26.7°C) outside and/or is excessively humid.

(much of this information was cribbed from the Pet Health Network webpage)

Symptoms of Hypothermia in Dogs

• Shaking (sometimes violent)
• Shallow breathing
• Weakness
• Low blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Coma Muscle stiffness
• Blank stare
• Pale or blue gums
• Listlessness

Types

Mild –

Moderate –

Severe –

Causes of Hypothermia in Dogs

Normal body temperature for dogs  is 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius).
 

The only accurate way to tell if your dog has an increased or decreased body temperature is to take their rectal temperature. Experts recommend using a digital thermometer specifically designed for rectal use in dogs. Most thermometers intended for use in human ears do not work well for this purpose.

Falsely elevated temperatures can occur when pets are over excited or agitated.

To take your dog’s temperature, first coat the thermometer with a lubricant such as petroleum gel or baby oil. Next, gently insert the thermometer about one inch into your dog’s anus and wait for results. Most thermometers sold for this purpose will take less than 60 seconds to register

If your dog has a temperature greater than 103 F or less than 99 F, you should call your veterinarian.

Temperatures above 106 F or below 97 F are emergencies that must be treated promptly.

If your dog has a temperature above 105 F, you can help bring his body temperature down by applying cool water to his fur, especially around the ears and feet. Using a fan on the damp fur will help lower the temperature. Be sure to monitor your dog’s rectal temperature as you do this, and stop the cooling procedure once it reaches 103 F. You don’t want to bring down the temperature too fast läs hela rapporten.

If your dog has a fever, try to see that he drinks small amounts of water on a regular basis to stay hydrated, but don’t force it. And never give your dog any human medicines intended to lower fever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as they can be poisonous to dogs and cause severe injury or death.

If your dog has a temperature below 99 F, wrap them in warmed blankets (you can heat these blankets up in either a tumble dryer, on a radiator or with a hairdryer) and place a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel against your dog’s abdomen. Be sure to monitor their temperature every 10 minutes and if it falls below 97 F, seek emergency veterinary attention immediately.

Dog Fever Symptoms

• Lethargy
• Depressed mood
• Shivering
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Coughing
• Nasal discharge

From Pets.WebMD.com

Normal Pulse Rate

The normal pulse or heart rate for dogs can vary depending on the dog’s age and size. The resting heart rates of small dogs and puppies are faster than the heart rates of large or adult dogs.

Puppies can have resting pulse rates of 160 to 200 beats per minute when they are born, which can go as high as 220 beats per minute at two weeks of age. Up to 180 beats per minute may be normal until a year of age.

Large adult dogs can have a resting heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute, while small adult dogs can have a normal heart rate of 100 to 140 beats per minute.

Measuring your dog’s pulse

To measure your dog’s heart rate, you’ll need a stopwatch or clock that can show you a count in seconds.

Place the ball of two fingers (not your thumb) on the depression found in your dog’s inner upper thigh, over the Femoral artery. It may take a little searching around to find it the first time – don’t give up!

For smaller pets, placing your hand over the left side of the dog’s chest just behind the elbow also allows you to feel the heartbeat

Count the beats you feel for 15 seconds and multiply the result by four or for 30 seconds and multiple the result by two to get the beats per minute .

Be very careful when dealing with a dog that’s choking, as even calm animals will panic when they cannot breathe. Protect yourself by restraining the dog, but do not muzzle it.

1. Use both hands to open the dog’s mouth, with one hand on the upper jaw and the other on the lower.
2. Grasping the jaws, press the lips over the dog’s teeth so that they are between the teeth and your fingers. Any dog can bite, so use every precaution.
3. Look inside the mouth and remove the obstruction with your fingers. Sweep your finger across the back of the mouth to feel for any obstruction. *If there are bones lodged deep in the dog’s throat, do not try to pull these out. You will need to take your dog to the vet immediately to have him sedated and the object removed safely.
4. If you can’t move the object with your fingers but can see it, call your veterinarian or the emergency clinic right away.

If the dog is still choking and you can’t see anything in the mouth, or the dog has fallen unconscious, follow these guidelines.

Dog Heimlich Maneuver for a SMALL Dog

Carefully lay your dog on his back and apply pressure to the abdomen just below the rib cage. 

Dog Heimlich Maneuver for a LARGE Dog

Do not try to pick up a large dog; you’re more likely to do further damage due to the animal’s size. Instead, perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs:

1. If the dog is standing, put your arms around her belly, joining your hands. Make a fist and push firmly up and forward, just behind the rib cage. Place the dog on his side afterward.
2. If the dog is lying down on his side, place one hand on the back for support and use the other hand to squeeze the abdomen upwards and forwards towards the spine.
3. Check the dog’s mouth and remove any objects that may have been dislodged using the precautions described above.

Note that the object might be quite a way back towards the throat, so you might have to hunt around and hook it out with your index finger. If the dog required artificial respiration or CPR, seek immediate veterinary attention.

originally from petmd.com

Originally from the ASPCA website: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death. Under no circumstances should your pet be given any alcohol. If you suspect that your pet has ingested alcohol, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

Avocado
Avocado is primarily a problem for birds, rabbits, donkeys, horses, and ruminants including sheep and goats. The biggest concern is for cardiovascular damage and death in birds.  Horses, donkeys and ruminants frequently get swollen, edematous head and neck.

Chocolate, Coffee and Caffeine
These products all contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds, the fruit of the plant used to make coffee, and in the nuts of an extract used in some sodas. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. Note that darker chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines, while baking chocolate contains the highest. Please see the Chocolate Toxicity FAQ for details. With regards to caffeine, in dogs the toxic dose (of caffeine) is approximately 200 mg/kg of body weight.

Citrus
The stems, leaves, peels, fruit and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid, essential oils that can cause irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression if ingested in significant amounts. Small doses, such as eating the fruit, are not likely to present problems beyond minor stomach upset.

Coconut and Coconut Oil
When ingested in small amounts, coconut and coconut-based products are not likely to cause serious harm to your pet. The flesh and milk of fresh coconuts do contain oils that may cause stomach upset, loose stools or diarrhea. Because of this, we encourage you to use caution when offering your pets these foods. Coconut water is high in potassium and should not be given to your pet.

Grapes and Raisins
Although the toxic substance within grapes and raisins is unknown, these fruits can cause kidney failure. Until more information is known about the toxic substance, it is best to avoid feeding grapes and raisins to dogs.

Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs. Signs usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last approximately 12 to 48 hours.

Milk and Dairy
Because pets do not possess significant amounts of lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk), milk and other dairy-based products cause them diarrhea or other digestive upset.

Nuts
Nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts, contain high amounts of oils and fats. The fats can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis in pets.

Onions, Garlic, Chives
These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage. Although cats are more susceptible, dogs are also at risk if a large enough amount is consumed. Toxicity is normally diagnosed through history, clinical signs and microscopic confirmation of Heinz bodies.

Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs and Bones
Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin that decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can lead to skin and coat problems. Feeding your pet raw bones may seem like a natural and healthy option that might occur if your pet lived in the wild. However, this can be very dangerous for a domestic pet, who might choke on bones, or sustain a grave injury should the bone splinter and become lodged in or puncture your pet’s digestive tract.

Salt and Salty Snack Foods
Large amounts of salt can produce excessive thirst and urination, or even sodium ion poisoning in pets. Signs that your pet may have eaten too many salty foods include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, seizures and even death. As such, we encourage you to avoid feeding salt-heavy snacks like potato chips, pretzels, and salted popcorn to your pets.

Xylitol
Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many products, including gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste. It can cause insulin release in most species, which can lead to liver failure. The increase in insulin leads to hypoglycemia (lowered sugar levels). Initial signs of toxicosis include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to seizures. Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure can be seen within a few days.

Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet’s digestive system. This can be painful and can cause the stomach to bloat, and potentially twist, becoming a life threatening emergency. The yeast produce ethanol as a by-product and a dog ingesting raw bread dough can become drunk (See alcohol).

The amount and type of chocolate ingested is important, as they are the determining factors for the severity of the toxicity. The three types of chocolate that you must be aware of are:

1. Milk Chocolate – Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.7 ounces per pound of body weight is ingested; severe toxicity occurs when two ounces per pound of body weight is ingested (or as little as one pound of milk chocolate for a 20-pound dog).
2. Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Mild signs of toxicity can occur when 0.3 ounce per pound of body weight is ingested; severe toxicity occurs when one ounce per pound of body weight is ingested (or as little as six ounces of semi-sweet chocolate for a 20-pound dog).
3. Baking Chocolate – This type of chocolate has the highest concentration of caffeine and theobromine. Therefore, as little as two small one-ounce squares of baking chocolate can be toxic to a 20-pound dog (or 0.1 ounce per pound of body weight).

Chocolate contains substances known as methylxanthines (specifically caffeine and theobromine), which dogs are far more sensitive to than people. Different types of chocolate contain varying amounts of methylxanthines. In general, though, the darker and more bitter the chocolate the greater the danger.

What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Chocolate?

If you know your dog has ingested chocolate , or has any of the symptoms below, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 or your veterinarian right away.

Common Household Items

 ^* The amount of caffeine and theobromine will vary naturally due to growing conditions and cocoa bean sources and variety.

Foods Highest in Theobromine

Symptoms of concern include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased body temperature
• Increased reflex responses
• Muscle rigidity
• Rapid breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Seizures
• Advanced signs (cardiac failure, weakness, and coma)

Cribbed from PetMD.com
“CAFFEINE & THEOBROMINE.” The Hershey Company. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013.
“Nutrition Information.” Nutrition Facts, Calories in Food, Labels, Nutritional Information and Analysis – NutritionData.com. Condé Nast, n.d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013.