DIY Network

Dr. Karen's Tips From "Barkitecture" episode DBAR-103

As Oliver heads to his new pagoda, Dr. Karen Tobias has some advice to offer the Beelers.

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Puppy proofing will ensure your pet's safety.

Puppy Proofing

• Make sure that all electrical cords are hidden or run securely behind furniture. Your dog would love nothing more than to chew on these.

• It is important to know what plants you have in the house as many of them can be poisonous to your dog (English ivy).

• Fireplaces hold many threats...from hot embers to sharp tools. A fireplace screen is suggested.

Pug owners need to be aware of certain facts about this particular breed.

Pug Information

• Pug's eyes are more prone to develop ulcers since they protrude.

• Pug's soft pallets can create problems with breathing and can cause the dog to overheat in the summer.

• It is normal for pugs to breathe loudly, snore loudly and even sound raspy.

Dental care for your dog is extremely important.

Dog Dental Care

Did you know that dogs get dental disease just like people do? In fact, dogs that have a lot of plaque and tarter can actually have more problems with kidney and heart disease. So, it is important for you to take care of their teeth. You have several different options.

• You can use dental wipes to rub the outside surface of the teeth and get the plaque off.

• You can use a toothbrush that is made specifically for dogs. You can use it to slide along the outside surfaces of your dog’s teeth. If you want to use toothpaste, choose one that is made specifically for dogs. Dogs will swallow toothpaste so you don’t want to give them anything with fluoride.

• If you can’t get to your dogs teeth every day, you can provide them with dental chews. As the dog chews, it will break off the tarter and plaque.

• Toys can help, too. Some fit in and around the teeth and that also breaks down tarter and plaque.

• You can use a dental rinse. Some of the rinses are only to improve your dog’s breath, but others actually have antibacterials in them to kill the bacteria that cause plaque.

RESOURCES :

Young-Williams Animal Center
Website: www.knoxpets.org

The American Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Website: www.aspca.org

Petfinder.com
Website: www.petfinder.com