ElleVet Hemp Oil for Pet's Health

In a press report, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Presents First Pharmacokinetics Study on Cannabinoids for Dogs published on February 2, 2018, it was announced that Cornell and ElleVet Sciences collaborated to carry out a double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation on hemp oil. Accurately understanding the product's metabolism and, more crucially, determining the dosing precision and frequency were crucial components of the study.

Ellevet a pet health care hemp company was the first to participate in a clinical study with Cornell University to test the usage of hemp-based products for dogs in a scientific manner. Results from a similar study showed lower absorption in cats and needed further study.

According to the Cornell study, "dogs who consumed ElleVet's unique hemp oil combination fared significantly better than those who got a placebo. According to the study, ElleVet's hemp oil combination is "dramatically beneficial in our more geriatric patients; efficacious for pain in dogs with osteoarthritis, chronic joint pain and geriatric pain and soreness." When using ElleVet Mobility soft chews, more than 80% of dogs reported a noticeable or dramatic improvement. ElleVet soft chews have been referred to by veterinarians as "A game changer that will change the face of veterinary medicine."

In addition to ElleVet's scientific validation, anecdotal evidence from animal clinics and pet owners across indicates that ElleVet significantly enhances dogs' quality of life and pain thresholds when it comes to osteoarthritis and joint discomfort. The study was presented at the North American Veterinary community conference in 2018.   If you click and order on the link below, you will support what I do because I may receive a small commission.

What is Incontinence in Dogs and how is it Treated?

Incontinence in dogs is a condition where the dog loses control of their bladder or bowel and leaks urine or feces involuntarily. This can happen for various reasons, such as urinary tract infections, hormonal imbalances, spinal injuries, kidney diseases, or medications. Incontinence can cause discomfort, irritation, and infection for the dog, so it is important to seek veterinary advice if you notice any signs of incontinence in your dog.

Some signs of incontinence in dogs are:

- Dripping urine or feces from the genitals or anus

- Wet patches or puddles where the dog has been sleeping or lying down

- Sore skin or matted fur near the bottom or back legs

- Increased licking of the penis or vulva to clean off urine

- Urine odor or stains on the dog's fur or bedding

Incontinence can affect any dog, but it is more common in certain types, such as:

- Middle-aged to older spayed female dogs, who may have lower estrogen levels or weak bladder sphincters

- Older dogs of any gender, who may have weaker urethral muscles due to aging

- Dogs with congenital or inherited abnormalities of the urinary tract

- Dogs with chronic illnesses that cause excessive thirst or urination, such as diabetes or Cushing's disease

The treatment of incontinence in dogs depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Some possible treatments are:

- Antibiotics for urinary tract infections

- Hormone supplements for spayed female dogs with low estrogen levels

- Medications that increase the tone of the bladder sphincter or relax the bladder wall

- Surgery for anatomical abnormalities or urinary stones

- Management of chronic diseases that affect urination, such as diabetes or kidney disease

In addition to medical treatment, some ways to manage incontinence in dogs are:

- Using diapers, pads, or waterproof bedding to keep the dog and the environment clean and dry

- Cleaning the dog's skin and fur regularly to prevent irritation and infection

- Providing frequent opportunities for the dog to go outside and empty their bladder

- Rewarding the dog for appropriate elimination and avoiding punishment for accidents

Incontinence in dogs can be a challenging condition to deal with, but with proper diagnosis, treatment, and care, it can be managed effectively. If you suspect your dog has incontinence, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to find out the best course of action for your dog's health and well-being.

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The most common pharmaceutical to treat urinary incontinence is Proin that is available in several dosages. A prescription is needed to purchase it. Only after an exam for any physical problems like a UTI should it be prescribed. Shop the Entirely Pets Pharmacy at the link below for Proin.   This link will allow me to make a small commission if you purchase. 

Get 10% off Site-Wide when using code EPX10. Our already low prices just got a little lower!

References:

 Urinary Incontinence in Dogs: Causes and Treatment - WebMD https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/urinary-incontinence-dogs

 Incontinence in dogs: Vet's guide to causes and treatment | PetsRadar https://www.petsradar.com/advice/incontinence-in-dogs

 What to Do If Your Older Dog Is Incontinent - The Spruce Pets https://www.thesprucepets.com/senior-dog-having-accidents-3976986

 Urinary Incontinence In Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments https://simplyfordogs.com/urinary-incontinence-in-dogs-causes-symptoms-treatments/

 Urinary Incontinence in dogs | Veterinary Teaching Hospital ... https://hospital.vetmed.wsu.edu/2021/10/26/urinary-incontinence-in-dogs/

What Does Science Say About Time Restricted Diets in Pets?

If you are a pet owner, you may have wondered if feeding your dog or cat less food or less often could help them live longer and healthier lives. After all, studies have shown that calorie restriction can extend the lifespan and delay the onset of age-related diseases in many animals, including rodents, fish, and monkeys. But what about our furry companions?

The answer is not so simple. While there is some evidence that reducing the amount of food or the frequency of feeding can have positive effects on some aspects of pet health, such as weight management, inflammation, and kidney function, there are also potential risks and challenges that need to be considered.

## Benefits of time restricted diets in pets

One of the main benefits of time restricted diets in pets is that they can help prevent or treat obesity, which is a common and serious problem in dogs and cats. Obesity can increase the risk of many diseases, such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. According to the 2014 AAHA Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, an effective weight loss program for pets involves appropriate caloric restriction, diet selection, exercise, and behavior modification.

Another benefit of time restricted diets in pets is that they may improve the health and function of the kidneys, which are often affected by chronic diseases in older animals. Recent studies in dogs and cats have shown that feeding diets designed to manage renal disease can reduce the complications associated with renal failure and increase life expectancy.

A third benefit of time restricted diets in pets is that they may reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in many chronic diseases and aging processes. Inflammation is caused by the release of hormones and cytokines from excess adipose tissue (fat) and can damage various organs and tissues. By limiting the amount or timing of food intake, pets may experience lower levels of inflammation and oxidative stress.

## Risks and challenges of time restricted diets in pets

Despite these potential benefits, time restricted diets in pets are not without risks and challenges. One of the main risks is that they may cause nutritional deficiencies or imbalances, especially if the diet is not carefully formulated or monitored by a veterinarian. Pets have different nutritional requirements than humans and need adequate amounts of protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to maintain their health and well-being. Feeding a diet that is too low in calories or nutrients can lead to malnutrition, muscle loss, organ damage, or even death.

Another risk of time restricted diets in pets is that they may trigger behavioral problems or stress responses in some animals. Pets may become more hungry, anxious, aggressive, or depressed when their food intake is restricted or irregular. They may also develop food-related obsessions or compulsions, such as begging, stealing, hoarding, or guarding food. These behaviors can affect the quality of life of both the pet and the owner and may require professional intervention.

A third risk of time restricted diets in pets is that they may not be suitable for all animals or situations. Some pets may have medical conditions or special needs that require more frequent or specific feeding schedules. For example, diabetic pets may need to eat at regular intervals to maintain their blood glucose levels. Pregnant or lactating pets may need more calories and nutrients to support their offspring. Young or growing pets may need more food to support their development. Additionally, some owners may find it difficult or impractical to follow a strict feeding regimen for their pets due to their lifestyle or preferences.

## Conclusion

Time restricted diets in pets are a complex and controversial topic that requires careful consideration and consultation with a veterinarian. While they may offer some benefits for certain aspects of pet health, they also pose some risks and challenges that need to be weighed against the individual needs and preferences of each pet and owner. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for feeding our furry friends; rather, each pet should receive a balanced and appropriate diet that meets their nutritional requirements and supports their optimal health and happiness.

What Does Research Say about the Best Time to Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

Spaying or neutering your pet is a responsible and beneficial decision that can improve their health and behavior, as well as prevent unwanted litters and pet overpopulation. However, the best age to spay or neuter your pet may vary depending on their breed, size, sex, and health condition.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, veterinarians should make an informed, case-by-case assessment of each individual patient, taking into account all the potential risks and benefits of spay/neuter. Some factors that may influence the decision include:

- The risk of mammary cancer, which is greatly reduced by spaying female cats and dogs before their first heat cycle.

- The risk of testicular cancer, which is eliminated by neutering male cats and dogs.

- The risk of joint disorders and some cancers, which may be increased by spaying or neutering large or giant breed dogs at an early age.

- The risk of unwanted behaviors, such as roaming, marking, spraying, and aggression, which may be reduced by spaying or neutering cats and dogs.

Generally speaking, small-breed dogs (under 45 pounds projected adult body weight) should be neutered at six months of age or spayed prior to the first heat (five to six months). Large-breed dogs (over 45 pounds projected adult body weight) should be neutered after growth stops, which usually is between 9 and 15 months of age. The decision on when to spay a large-breed female dog is based on many factors—your veterinarian can help narrow down the recommended window of 5 to 15 months depending on your dog’s disease risk and lifestyle.

For cats, the American Animal Hospital Association has endorsed the “Fix Felines by Five” initiative, which recommends sterilization of cats by five months of age. This recommendation prevents unwanted litters and greatly decreases mammary cancer risks in female cats as well as spraying/marking in male cats, but still allows kittens time to grow.

Spaying or neutering your pet is a safe and effective procedure that can be performed by your veterinarian at any age. However, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your pet based on their individual needs and circumstances.

What is Separation Anxiety in Animals and How does it Differ from ADHD-behavior in Dogs?

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral problem that affects many pets, especially dogs and cats. It is triggered when pets become upset or stressed because of separation from their owners, the people they are attached to. Separation anxiety can cause pets to display various signs of distress, such as barking, howling, chewing, digging, urinating, defecating, vomiting, salivating, pacing, or trying to escape. Some pets may also show pre-departure anxiety when they see their owners getting ready to leave, or exuberant greeting when their owners return. Separation anxiety can be harmful to both the pet and the owner, as it can result in self-injury, property damage, noise complaints, or strained relationships.

Separation anxiety is different from ADHD-behavior in dogs. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is a condition that affects some humans and may also affect some dogs. Dogs with ADHD may show symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattention, distractibility, or difficulty following commands. ADHD-behavior in dogs is not caused by separation from their owners, but by a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors. ADHD-behavior in dogs can be managed with proper training, exercise, mental stimulation, and medication.

To learn more about separation anxiety in animals and how it differs from ADHD-behavior in dogs, you can check out these sources:

- Separation Anxiety | ASPCA

- Separation Anxiety in Pets: Your Questions Answered

- Pet Separation Anxiety | Symptoms and Advice | Animal Trust

- Separation Anxiety in Different Species of Animals

- Can Dogs Have ADHD? | PetMD

: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety

: https://vetmed.illinois.edu/pet-health-columns/separation-anxiety-in-pets-faq/

: https://www.animaltrust.org.uk/blog/pet-separation-anxiety/

: https://www.theanimalbehaviorcenter.com/separation-anxiety-in-different-species-of-animals/

: https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_adhd

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome - What is It?

Canine cognitive syndrome (CCS) is a common age-related condition that affects the brain of dogs, causing cognitive decline and behavioral changes. It is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, but not exactly the same. CCS can affect dogs of any breed, but it is more common in older dogs, usually starting around nine years of age or older.

CCS is caused by degenerative changes in the brain that impair the function of neurons, the cells that transmit information throughout the body. One of these changes is the accumulation of a protein called beta-amyloid, which forms plaques that interfere with neuronal communication. Another change is the loss of brain volume and weight due to neuronal death and reduced blood flow.

The signs of CCS may vary from dog to dog, but they can be grouped into four categories: disorientation, interaction, sleep, and house-soiling. These are also known as DISH:

- Disorientation: Dogs with CCS may get lost in familiar places, wander aimlessly, stare into space, get stuck in corners, or have difficulty finding food or water bowls.

- Interaction: Dogs with CCS may show changes in their social behavior, such as being more clingy or aloof, not recognizing familiar people or animals, or becoming more irritable or aggressive.

- Sleep: Dogs with CCS may have altered sleep patterns, such as sleeping more during the day and being restless or vocal at night.

- House-soiling: Dogs with CCS may lose their house-training skills and urinate or defecate indoors, even when they have access to the outdoors.

CCS is diagnosed based on the presence of these signs and ruling out other possible causes, such as pain, arthritis, vision or hearing loss, infections, tumors, or other systemic diseases. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend blood and urine tests or imaging tests to check for other conditions.

There is no cure for CCS, but there are ways to manage it and improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. Treatment may include:

- Diet: Some prescription diets are specially formulated to support brain health and function in dogs with CCS. They contain antioxidants, fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

- Medication: Some drugs may help improve cognitive function and behavior in dogs with CCS by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, in the brain. These drugs include selegiline (Anipryl), propentofylline (Vivitonin), and nicergoline (Ergoloid).

- Supplements: Some supplements may have beneficial effects on brain health and function in dogs with CCS. These include omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), phosphatidylserine (CogniCare), SAMe (Novifit), antioxidants (Neutricks), and CBD oil.

- Environmental enrichment: Providing mental stimulation and physical activity for dogs with CCS can help slow down cognitive decline and improve behavior. This can include playing games, learning new tricks, exploring new places, interacting with other dogs or people, and providing toys or puzzles.

- Behavior modification: Using positive reinforcement techniques and avoiding punishment can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs with CCS. It can also help reinforce desired behaviors and discourage unwanted ones. For example, rewarding dogs for using a designated indoor potty area can help with house-soiling issues.

CCS is a progressive disease that worsens over time, but with early intervention and proper management, dogs can live longer and happier lives with their owners.

Recommended: This is a top pick by ConsumerLab that is a scientifically based testing organization. Their complaint is that many of the products they have tested that are on the market do not contain the amounts of  omega-3 that the label states. 

References:

[1] Cognitive dysfunction syndrome | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/cognitive-dysfunction-syndrome

[2] Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs - Veterinary Partner - VIN

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=9773661

[3] Canine cognitive dysfunction - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canine_cognitive_dysfunction

To Pluck or Not to Pluck? That is the Important Question!

What are the pros and cons of plucking dogs ears? 

 If you have a dog with long, floppy ears, you may have heard about ear plucking. Ear plucking is the practice of removing the hair from the ear canal of your dog, usually with tweezers or a special tool. Some groomers and veterinarians recommend ear plucking for certain breeds, such as poodles, cocker spaniels, and bichon frises, to prevent ear infections and improve air circulation. 

But is ear plucking really necessary and beneficial for your dog? Here are some pros and cons of ear plucking to help you decide. Pros of ear plucking: - 

- Ear plucking may reduce the risk of ear infections by removing the hair that can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria in the ear canal. 

- Ear plucking may improve the ventilation and airflow in the ear canal, which can help keep the ears dry and cool. 

- Ear plucking may make it easier to examine and clean the ears, as well as apply medication if needed. - Ear plucking may prevent matting and tangling of the hair in the ear canal, which can cause discomfort and irritation. 

Cons of ear plucking: 

- Ear plucking can be painful and stressful for your dog, especially if done improperly or without anesthesia. 

- Ear plucking can cause inflammation and irritation of the skin in the ear canal, which can increase the risk of infection and make the ears more sensitive. 

- Ear plucking can damage the hair follicles and cause ingrown hairs, cysts, or tumors in the ear canal. - Ear plucking can remove the natural protection that the hair provides against foreign objects, insects, and parasites. 

The bottom line: Ear plucking is not a one-size-fits-all solution for dogs with long, floppy ears. Some dogs may benefit from ear plucking, while others may not. The best way to decide whether to pluck your dog's ears or not is to consult with your veterinarian or groomer. They can assess your dog's ear health and recommend the best course of action for your dog. Remember that ear plucking is not a substitute for regular ear care. You should always check your dog's ears for signs of infection or irritation and clean them as needed with a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls or gauze.

Recommended: Zymox is the best ear cleaner I have found that is available over-the-counter. I use it between trips to the groomer and between ear plucks.  

Are Plug-ins and Diffusers Safe to Use Around Pets?

If you love using plug-ins and diffusers to make your home smell nice, you may wonder if they are safe for your furry friends. You don't want to harm your dog or cat with something that is supposed to improve your well-being. Unfortunately, the answer is not so simple. Depending on the type and ingredients of the product you use, plug-ins and diffusers can pose various risks to your pet's health.

Some of the common dangers of plug-ins and diffusers for pets are:

- Toxicity: Some of the chemicals used in plug-ins and diffusers, such as artificial fragrances, ethanol, phenols, and terpenes, can be toxic to pets if they inhale, ingest, or come into contact with them. These chemicals can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, tremors, seizures, liver damage, or even death. Cats are especially sensitive to these chemicals because they lack an enzyme that helps them metabolize them.

- Irritation: Even if the product is not toxic, it can still irritate your pet's eyes, nose, throat, skin, or respiratory tract. This can lead to sneezing, coughing, itching, redness, swelling, or inflammation. Some pets may also develop allergic reactions or asthma attacks from exposure to plug-ins and diffusers.

- Fire hazard: Plug-ins and diffusers that use electricity or heat can pose a fire hazard if they malfunction, overheat, or are knocked over by curious pets. This can result in burns, smoke inhalation, or property damage.

How to use plug-ins and diffusers safely around pets

If you want to use plug-ins and diffusers in your home, you should take some precautions to protect your pets from harm. Here are some tips to follow:

- Choose natural essential oils over synthetic fragrances. Natural essential oils are safer than synthetic fragrances, which can contain harmful chemicals. However, not all essential oils are safe for pets either. Some of the oils that are toxic to pets include tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, citrus, cinnamon, clove, and pine. Always check the label of the product before using it and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure.

- Use plug-ins and diffusers sparingly and in well-ventilated areas. Don't overuse plug-ins and diffusers or leave them on for too long. Use them only when you need them and turn them off when you leave the room. Make sure the room has adequate ventilation and air circulation to prevent the accumulation of harmful vapors. Avoid using plug-ins and diffusers in small or enclosed spaces where your pet spends a lot of time.

- Keep plug-ins and diffusers out of reach of your pets. Place plug-ins and diffusers high up or in secure locations where your pets can't access them. Don't let your pets lick, chew, or play with them. Keep the cords and wires away from your pets as well. If your pet accidentally ingests or comes into contact with the product, contact your veterinarian immediately.

- Monitor your pet for any signs of adverse effects. Observe your pet closely for any changes in their behavior or health after using plug-ins and diffusers. If you notice any signs of toxicity or irritation, such as vomiting, drooling, difficulty breathing, tremors, seizures, itching, redness, swelling, or inflammation, stop using the product and seek veterinary attention right away.

Plug-ins and diffusers can make your home smell nice, but they can also pose serious risks to your pet's health. By following these tips, you can use them safely around your pets and enjoy their benefits without compromising their well-being.

What is the Brain Activity in a Dog after it is Triggered?

Dogs are amazing animals that can form strong bonds with humans and other animals. They can also display a range of emotions, such as joy, fear, anger, and sadness. But what happens in their brains when they are triggered by something that causes them stress or anxiety?

Triggering is a term that refers to the activation of a negative emotional response in an animal or a person due to a stimulus that reminds them of a past traumatic event. For example, a dog that was abused by a previous owner may be triggered by loud noises, certain smells, or specific objects. When a dog is triggered, it may show signs of distress, such as panting, trembling, barking, growling, or hiding.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can be measured by using electroencephalography (EEG), which records the electrical signals of the brain. EEG can reveal the changes in brain waves that reflect the emotional state of the dog. Brain waves are categorized into four types: alpha, beta, theta, and delta.

Alpha waves are associated with relaxation and calmness. Beta waves are associated with alertness and concentration. Theta waves are associated with drowsiness and dreaming. Delta waves are associated with deep sleep and unconsciousness.

When a dog is triggered, its brain activity changes from a normal state of alpha and beta waves to a state of high arousal and stress, characterized by increased beta waves and decreased alpha waves. This indicates that the dog is experiencing fear, anxiety, or anger. The dog may also show increased theta waves, which indicate emotional processing and memory recall. The dog may be reliving the traumatic event that caused the triggering in the first place.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can also affect other parts of the nervous system, such as the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The ANS controls the involuntary functions of the body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and digestion. The HPA axis regulates the production and release of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline.

When a dog is triggered, its ANS activates the sympathetic branch, which prepares the body for fight or flight. The heart rate increases, the blood pressure rises, the breathing becomes faster and shallower, and the digestion slows down. The HPA axis also activates and releases cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream. These hormones increase the energy and alertness of the dog, but also suppress the immune system and impair the memory and learning abilities.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can have short-term and long-term effects on its health and behavior. In the short term, the dog may experience physical symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, or muscle pain. It may also experience psychological symptoms, such as irritability, aggression, depression, or phobias. In the long term, the dog may develop chronic stress, which can lead to various diseases and disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or cancer.

The brain activity in a dog after it is triggered can be reduced by using various methods of intervention and prevention. Some of these methods include:

- Providing a safe and comfortable environment for the dog

- Avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggering stimuli

- Providing positive reinforcement and rewards for calm behavior

- Using desensitization and counterconditioning techniques to gradually reduce the negative association with triggering stimuli

- Using medication or supplements to reduce anxiety and stress

- Consulting a veterinarian or a behaviorist for professional advice

Triggering is a serious issue that affects many dogs and their owners. By understanding the brain activity in a dog after it is triggered, we can better help our canine companions cope with their emotions and live happier and healthier lives.