Nest Dog Longevity

09/25/2019

Forms of dementia can affect senior pups the same way it does senior humans: they get confused and don't remember how to do things. In this picture you can see Nest sanctuary dog Chloe not finding her way all the way into her bed. And just like humans, she just needs a little extra help and reassurance. :)

01/27/2018

Old doggie warts.

Papillomas or warts are benign groups of abnormal cells caused by the papillomas viruses, which produce skin and mouth lesions in dogs.

01/27/2018

If you ever wondered about those little growths/warts on your dog's body:

Papillomas or warts are benign groups of abnormal cells caused by the papillomas viruses, which produce skin and mouth lesions in dogs.

07/11/2017

Did you know that about 80% of a dog's immune system depends on his gut? Your dog's belly is a busy one! Not only does it digest food - sometimes pretty big chunks, right? - but it also is designed to fight and defeat harmful bacteria such as salmonella and e-coli. This job can only be done when there is a healthy intestinal flora which means the presence of "good" bacteria. Not enough beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract can be the trigger for a chronic disease and a suppressed immune system. Overmedicating, especially with antibiotics and steroids, a poor diet (including prescription diets at times) and stress (ever noticed loose stools when you take your dog to the vet?) all can be damaging to beneficial bacteria. So, depending on the condition causing the disease avoiding stress, feeding good food, using medications only if absolutely necessary, and adding probiotics can help restoring your dog's health. Message us with any questions you may have.

05/24/2017

This the Season!!! Ticks, fleas, mosquitoes. Thank Dog there is preventatives for those. But if your pup suffers from allergies, it can be a bit trickier. If you notice red irritated skin or even hives, your pup is most likely experiencing an allergic reaction to something in the environment. Think about all the grass, tree and shrub pollen floating around right now. If your pup is itching you can easily help him with a soothing oatmeal bath, a small dose of Benadryl and apply a soothing all natural salve.

10/10/2016

If you have an old(r) dog that suddenly shows lack of appetite for food she used to eat with gusto there could be an underlying health problem such as beginning kidney disease or liver disease. Excessive drinking and urinating more frequently can be indicators of kidney disease as well as diabetes. If you can, collect a urine sample and take your pup to your vet.

10/05/2016

Who says cocktail hour is just for people? Our dogs love "Sissy's Cocktail" mixed in with their daily grub!

09/30/2016

We took Jaeger to the vet yesterday because of a swollen paw. At age 15 he was do for a senior blood panel, thorough exam and because he has been coughing here and there lately we decided to do a heartworm test. He is on heartworm prevention but you know, meds can fail too. He turned out negative and overall he is in excellent shape! Heartworm is a serious disease and is fatal if not treated. The treatment can be harsh and is costly so prevention is clearly the way to go. Our vet told us that they did 4(!!!) heartworm treatments yesterday and it just prompted us to remind everyone how important it is to have your dogs and cats on heartworm prevention year round. Especially with the large amount of rain we had this summer, mosquitos are thriving and feasting on your beloved pups! If you would like to learn more go to this web site or talk to your vet.
https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-basics

09/27/2016

Just like people, older dogs, especially larger breed ones, often experience arthritis. Besides turmeric which is an excellent natural anti inflammatory, we had a lot of success with Vetriflex. Not only does it help with achy joints, it also addresses muscle, brain and liver function. We love it and recommend it.
https://www.homevet.com/…/vetriflex-chews-50-dogs-and-cat-a…

03/11/2016

Don't let this happen to your dog! Dental health is not just a cosmetic issue. Keeping up your dog's oral hygiene on a regular basis will prevent him/her from getting periodontal disease. Small breed dogs are particularly susceptive to dental disease and left unattended it can lead to heart, kidney, liver disease and affect the GI tract. Take a good look at your pup's teeth and call your veterinarian to make an appointment to have them cleaned if you see tartar and inflammation of the gum line. Once the teeth are cleaned, your vet can recommend products that can be used to prevent build thus keep your pup healthy and save money.

01/17/2016

Sometimes, especially with old(r) dogs, it can be a challenge to get them to drink enough water for proper kidney function. My dear aunt who taught me all the basics about nutrition and supplements many years ago has a pup like that. To help it, every morning she prepares a mix of fat free plain yogurt, a tiny bit of high quality canned food with plenty of water. Molly loves it and she now gets all the fluids she needs.