Happy National Puppy Day!
Dealing with a doggy disability: X-rays show the progression of Hazel's broken femur
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Hazel at 9 weeks and 13 weeks
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Hazel, my Saint
Bernese puppy, is
four months old now and much has changed for this fluffy little spit-fire of a
mountain dog. When my partner Robert and I brought Hazel home on March 22 we
noticed that she walked with a limp. I brought her to the animal hospital where
I work the next day and received some bad news- Hazel had fractured her femur
bone in her left hind leg at some point early on in her life. It went un-diagnosed and untreated. The first radiograph showed that bone had completely callused over- making the left leg
shorter than the right.
As
I discussed in my letter from the editor Hazel will walk with a limp, is
guaranteed to have arthritis and hip dysplasia early on in life and may need major surgery. At that time I was still waiting for the surgeon’s assessment.
Later that week I received the news- the surgeon said I should leave the leg for
now but take x-rays monthly to monitor the growth and watch for signs of pain.
If we saw signs of soreness we were to put Hazel on a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to help with pain management.
Santa Paws: Santa Claus goes to the dogs this Christmas
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Photo by DaPuglet Foter CC BY-SA |
Featured dog treat for March is puppy approved
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Photo by halfrain Foter.com CC BY-SA |
You just brought your puppy home and have to choose
a treat for the first time. The pet store can be a confusing place with way too
many endless options. Puppy owners must be more careful when selecting
something new to introduce to their dog's tummy.
When choosing a treat for a puppy it is important to
select a healthy option. A puppy’s stomach can be sensitive and Wellness® Just for Puppy Mini Soft Treats have natural ingredients that are palatable and
highly digestible.
February's featured dog breed is quick and clever
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Photo by zoomyboy.com Foter.com CC BY-NC |
Considered one of the most intelligent dogs in the world the Border Collie is an energetic breed that can be trained to be so much more than just a pet. The Border Collie is a medium build herding dog that is always alert to its surroundings. The Border Collie has been a favorite of dog owners for years- especially owners looking for a dog that will earn its keep.
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Photo by K's GLIMPSES Foter.com CC BY-NC-ND |
I will be live tweeting today from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. to celebrate Puppy Bowl Sunday! So give me some barks on twitter @PawsForReaction anfd put your paws up for Puppy Bowl
www.pawsforreaction.com