The Primordial Pouch: Why Do Cats Have a Belly Pouch?

Posted on September 9, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A white cat with a belly pouch walking through the grass.

Many cats have a pendulous pouch that swings back and forth from the abdominal area when the cat walks across the room. But what is it exactly? Is it the saggy remnants of a previous pregnancy in female cats? The droopy remains of a fat paunch in previously overweight cats? The feline equivalent of a muffin top? And is it normal for a cat’s abdomen to have a pouch? We’ll answer those questions and more.

What Is a Cat’s Primordial Pouch?

In cats, this excess collection of fat, loose skin and fur is called a primordial pouch. The pouch typically runs the length of the cat’s belly and is usually more noticeable near the rear legs. Most of the primordial pouch is not attached to the abdominal wall, which allows it to flip-flop and stretch during movement.

These primordial pouches are normal and don’t just appear in an overweight cat, so rest assured, your kitty does not need a tummy tuck (in fact, veterinarians generally refuse to do this kind of cosmetic surgery). Spay and neuter surgeries generally aren’t behind the development of these primordial pouches, either.

Why Do Cats Have a Primordial Pouch?

The feline primordial pouch is a mystery. While experts agree that primordial pouches are normal, no one is sure, exactly, what purpose they serve. The most common theory is that a cat’s primordial pouch provides protection — extra padding to protect the cat’s body and internal organs from sharp teeth and claws during skirmishes with prey or other cats.

Others speculate that the excess skin of a primordial pouch provides flexibility, making it easier for cats to stretch and run when they need to put an escape plan into action. It’s possible the primordial pouch also provides a food storage purpose, allowing the stomach to expand when cats eat an especially large meal, or a place to store fat for future sustenance (although this makes more sense for cats in the wild who aren’t served a bowl of delicious food every day like house cats are).

Do All Cats Have a Primordial Pouch?

While the primordial pouch may be unnoticeable in some cats, it can be pronounced in others, including older cats and certain cat breeds, such as the Bengal, the Egyptian mau or the pixiebob. Primordial pouches can even be spotted in big cats like lions, tigers and other large wild cats!

When Do Cats Develop a Primordial Pouch?

Every kitten is born with a primordial pouch, but you won’t begin to see it until they start developing into adults at around 6 to 12 months of age. But as we mentioned, depending on their genetics, in some cats the primordial pouch may still be hard to see as an adult.

Why Is My Cat’s Primordial Pouch So Big?

If your cat has a large primordial pouch, it may be due to their breed or other genetic factors. The pouch size is not typically related to their weight or health status — skinny cats can have large primordial pouches and overweight cats can have small primordial pouches. If you have a senior cat, you may notice their primordial pouch has gotten bigger as they’ve aged. When skin ages, it loses its elasticity, which can make the pouch look saggier.

Excess Skin or an Overweight Cat?

All that loose skin in your cat’s belly flap can make it difficult to evaluate if your cat is getting pudgy. In general, when viewing your cat’s shape from above, a normal, healthy cat should have a perceptible waist. You should also be able to feel your cat’s ribs without a lot of effort. If you’re having trouble feeling your cat’s ribs or seeing their waist, they’re probably overweight. If you need more help determining if obesity might be the cause of your kitty’s belly pouch, your veterinarian can help.

So if your feline friend has a primordial pouch, don’t fret — it’s perfectly normal. We may not know why your cat’s primordial pouch exists, but it’s there for a reason and doesn’t need to be removed.

Snakes Alive! What to Do About Snake Bites on Dogs

Posted on September 2, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A close-up of a dog sniffing a small snake.

Most snakes are happy to go about their business, keeping the local population of pesky rodents and insects under control, but some dogs just can’t leave well enough alone. Just like a bee sting, hopefully it will never happen to your dog, but if it does, this article will help you know what to do if your dog gets bitten by a snake.

Venomous Snakes Do Bite Dogs

About 150,000 dogs and cats are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year. In the U.S., snakes that are venomous include rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths (water moccasins) and coral snakes. If a venomous snake encounters your dog and bites them, it can be a life-threatening medical emergency.

What Does a Snake Bite Look Like on a Dog?

Much like bee stings, a snake bite on a dog’s legs or face is most common. You may or may not see fang marks because swelling around the bite wound can hide them. The severity of the bite depends on a number of factors: the type of snake, the bite site, the size of the dog, how much venom is injected by the fangs and the amount of time between when the bite occurs and when medical treatment is started. Therefore, assume the snake was venomous and immediately seek veterinary care to treat snake bites, even if your dog has received the snake bite vaccine.

Dog Snake Bite Symptoms

Bites from nonvenomous snakes may cause pain, bruising and swelling around the bite site. Puncture wounds (fang marks) may be visible. A nonvenomous snake bite on a dog’s body may become infected; otherwise, for most dogs, swelling resolves in a few days.

The signs of a venomous bite can vary, but may include pronounced swelling, which may spread quickly. Due to this swelling, fang marks may not be obvious. The dog may have severe pain, muscle tremors or respiratory distress (trouble breathing), and may go into shock, which is why immediate veterinary assistance is important.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Bitten by a Snake

  • Move yourself and your dog away from the snake immediately. If possible, take a photo of the snake to aid in identification.
  • Try to calm your dog and keep them from moving. If you need to get your dog to the car, carry them (if possible); too much movement can increase the spread of venom in the body.
  • Remove their collar and muzzle your dog. Dogs that are frightened or in pain may bite, so wrap a bandana or leash around their muzzle to protect yourself.
  • Keep the body part with the bite wound at or below the heart. If the snake was venomous, this may help slow the distribution of venom.
  • See a veterinarian as soon as possible. Dog snake bites can be a medical emergency. Don’t waste time trying to determine if the snake is venomous or not. If it’s after hours, go to the nearest emergency vet clinic.

What NOT to Do If Your Dog Is Bitten by a Snake

  • Don’t try to kill or capture the snake. This could put you at risk of a bite.
  • Don’t slice over the bite wounds and try to suck out venom. What may be a good idea in movies is not a good idea in real life.
  • Do not apply a tourniquet, pressure bandage or ice pack. While these tactics can help slow the venom from moving to other parts of the body, if the venom is sequestered, it can cause tissue damage.
  • Don’t administer any medications. Only give medications under the guidance of a vet.

Treatment for Venomous Snake Bites on Dogs

Hospitalization is often required for snake bites. For venomous bites, like rattlesnake bites, antivenin (antivenom) specific to the type of snake venom injected may be administered intravenously if it’s available — that’s why it’s helpful to have a photo of the offending snake. This treatment can be very expensive, especially for large dogs, and some dogs may have side effects. Pain medications, intravenous fluids, antibiotics to treat an infection and other treatments may also be recommended.

How to Prevent Snake Bites in Dogs

It’s better to try and avoid an emergency trip to the hospital. Take these steps to help prevent your dog from a nonvenomous or venomous snake bite:

  • Know the snakes that are common in your region or the area you will be visiting with your dog.
  • On hikes, stay on open paths and keep your dog on a leash.
  • Avoid off-trail hiking and areas where snakes are commonly found, such as rock formations and high grass.
  • Hike during the day (rattlers are nocturnal) or during cooler months when snakes may not be as active.
  • Don’t let your dog sniff at dying or injured snakes — they can still bite and inject venom.
  • If you live in or are visiting an area where rattlesnakes are common, talk to your vet about the rattlesnake vaccine for dogs. It is approved for use in dogs, however the jury is still out on its efficacy.

Let the Snake Slither Away

If snakes are common in your area, especially venomous ones, ask your veterinarian about snake avoidance training classes that teach your dog how to avoid the smell, sound and sight of snakes. If you do encounter a snake, stop and give it a chance to slither away on its own; most snakes aren’t aggressive and would rather not deal with people or dogs.

Can Nutrition Influence Your Dog’s Behavior?

Posted on August 26, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A brown dog lying on the floor licking its lips over a bowl of food.

If, as they say, “you are what you eat,” dietary ingredients could impact a dog’s health. Since our health affects how we feel, it seems logical that it could also affect how we act. But is there any evidence of a connection between dog food and behavior in dogs?

Dog Food Nutrition Needs to Be Balanced

Certainly, a poor diet can alter a dog’s normal behavior. Diets that are deficient in essential nutrients can lead to serious health issues, including anemia and brittle bones. If a dog isn’t feeling well because they’re weak or feeling pain, that can certainly impact their behavior.

That’s why one of the most important parts of any dog food label is the nutritional adequacy statement that indicates the pet food is “nutritionally complete and balanced” for your dog’s particular life stage. Commercial foods that list the nutritional adequacy statement have met the guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). 

Because the nutrient requirements (protein, essential amino acids, fat, vitamins and minerals) of dogs change over their lifetime, there are three nutritional adequacy statements that can be found on a dog food label depending on the diet: growth and reproduction, adult maintenance and all life stages. Diets that are designed for all life stages meet the nutritional requirements for both the growth and reproduction stage as well as adult maintenance stage. So make sure you consider your dog’s life stage when choosing their diet. A healthy dog is generally a happy dog! 

Yet even a healthy diet can become unbalanced if treats or table scraps make up more than 10 percent of the dog’s daily calories. Similarly, if you’re not following the feeding directions on the label, imbalances can occur. And unless homemade diets are prepared under the guidance of a veterinary nutritionist, it can be easy for dietary deficiencies to occur.

Does Raw Meat Make Dogs Aggressive?

It has been suggested that higher dietary protein may be associated with canine aggression. That’s why some recommend a low-protein diet for an adult dog with aggression problems. However, studies testing this concept have been flawed and results were conflicting, so more research is needed.

The theory behind the low-protein diet revolves around tryptophan, an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin, the neurochemical purported to create a calming effect. Tryptophan competes with other amino acids (which are components of protein) to cross the barrier into the brain. With less protein in the diet, it’s surmised there will be a greater chance for tryptophan, and eventually serotonin, to enter the brain, thereby promoting calm while reducing aggression.

Regardless, healthy adult dogs need at least 4.5 grams of protein per 100 calories of food, so there needs to be a minimum amount of protein provided.

Pet Food Nutrition and the Aging Canine Brain

Current research does support the positive effects of nutrition on brain aging.

Older dogs can experience cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which has been likened to human Alzheimer’s disease. Affected dogs may appear disoriented, interact less with family, lose house training and show changes in sleep/wake cycles, such as wandering around the house at night.

Several factors are thought to contribute to brain aging and cognitive decline in dogs, including chronic oxidative stress, reduced brain glucose metabolism and low-grade inflammation.

Some evidence has been found recently that certain ingredients, typically added to the diet or given in supplement form, may help improve clinical signs and slow cognitive decline in older dogs.

For example, antioxidants such as vitamins E and C in your dog’s diet may help neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals on cells, thereby protecting the brain from oxidative stress. These ingredients may have anti-inflammatory effects, as well.

To counter the effects of reduced cerebral glucose metabolism, medium-chain triglycerides in the diet can be converted to ketone bodies, providing the brain with an alternative energy source to glucose. In one study, dogs that were fed diets supplemented with medium-chain triglycerides performed better on cognitive tests than dogs fed the control diet.

How to Make Your Dog Happy

While good nutrition may have positive effects on canine behavior, many problems need a combination of therapies, including behavioral modification or training, environmental management and possibly medications. If you have questions about canine behavior and nutrition and how they may affect your dog’s life, your veterinary clinic is the best place to start.

Back-to-School for Your Pet: A Checklist to Alleviate Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Posted on August 19, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A brown and white dog lying in a dog bed on the floor.

Your dog has likely spent more time with the kids these last few months than usual, due to summer vacation. More time licking up the trail of cookie crumbs behind your child. More time rolling in the fresh-cut grass. More time curled up, fur to skin. But like all good things, summer comes to an end and back to school for the kids can lead to separation anxiety in dogs.

To help prevent your dog from feeling the angst of separation after the school bus leaves, we’ve compiled a back-to-school list for your pets. But like every school checklist, you want to work on it early, so your dog can gradually adjust to the new school year.

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE

Dogs are creatures of habit who are comforted by the predictable. They like their meals served at the same time every day. If your kids will rise earlier for school, start a few weeks before school starts and set the alarm a few minutes earlier each day to help your pet get used to the new schedule. Make sure to plan for one-on-one play time with your pet each day.

MAKE EXERCISE A PRIORITY

A tired dog is more likely to nap than mope or stress around the house all day. Make a point to walk your dog each day before the kids leave to help work off excess energy. More sleepy time is a great way to curb separation anxiety in dogs.

GIVE YOUR DOG ALONE TIME NOW TO ALLEVIATE SEPARATION ANXIETY LATER

If your dog currently goes everywhere with you or your kids, start leaving them home alone for small amounts of time each day. Go for a short walk or run a quick errand on your own, then gradually increase the amount of time you and the kids are away from your pet. If you return to signs of pet distress, such as urinary accidents, destructive chewing or neighbor complaints of nonstop barking, start with even shorter separation periods, such as just going out the door, counting to 10, then returning.

AVOID THE SOUND OF SILENCE

After a summer of full-time commotion in the household, quiet can be unsettling for dogs. Try leaving a radio on with soothing music, or a white-noise machine to eliminate distracting outdoor noises.

PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUR DOG

Dogs can become destructive when left alone simply because they’re bored. Now’s the time to stock up on pet-safe toys (never leave your dog alone with any toy that can potentially be chewed into pieces and swallowed). Fill a Kong with something tasty, such as peanut butter, cottage cheese or chicken baby food (make sure there’s no garlic powder or onion powder) and place it in the freezer so it’s ready to keep your dog busy when the kids go out the door. Or leave interactive food puzzles to challenge your dog’s mind and body.

PLANT A CAMERA

If you’re away during the day, consider using a video camera to keep tabs on your pet. Some products even enable you to talk with your pet and dispense a treat. Watch for signs of stress in dogs, including panting, pacing or destructive behavior. If your dog seems anxious, consult your veterinarian.

EMPLOY PHERMONES

During nursing, the mother dog releases pheromones, which have a calming effect. Synthetic versions of these, in plug-in diffusers, sprays or collars, are available at pet stores or online. They might help give dogs a recess from separation anxiety while the kids are at school.

PLAN FOR COMPANIONSHIP

If your dog will be alone for long stretches of time, look into having a dog walker stop by your house. Or check out the nearby doggy day cares where they can play with other pets.

SEEK HELP FOR SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS

If your dog is truly distressed when left alone, consult your veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist about separation anxiety in dogs. They can suggest the right behavioral therapy, and possibly medications, to help soothe your pet’s anxieties and make them more comfortable at home.

Remember that back to school for kids is also back to school for pets. It can be hard on our four-legged friends who don’t understand why that long yellow car is taking their pals away, but with a little prep work, they’ll be mentally and emotionally prepared for the switch!

Why Do Cats Need to Knead?

Posted on August 12, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A close-up of two cat paws.

For some cats, kneading seems like the pinnacle of Zen contentment. They close their eyes and rhythmically press one paw, then the other, often extending and releasing their nails at the same time. In this meditative state, they may drool slightly or rev up their purring engine to the loudest setting. But what’s behind this behavior?

Instinctive nursing behavior

Shortly after birth, kittens often knead to stimulate their mother’s milk flow, a behavior dubbed “milk treading” by noted zoologist Desmond Morris. This behavior may continue into adulthood as a way to show contentment. Snuggled in your lap or in a soft bed, your cat may knead as a way to communicate how happy they are there. And the drool? Perhaps it’s a feline version of Pavlov’s dog: they salivate in anticipation of the milk they received as kittens.

Labeling “what’s mine”

Your cat has scent glands on their paw pads, so when they knead, they leave an olfactory message for other cats that says, “I was here” or “this is mine.” Contented cats may also rub their lips, cheeks or foreheads on their owners for the same reason, to leave a personal message from scent glands in those areas.

A calming influence

Cats may also knead when they’re feeling anxious, as a self-soothing behavior. For instance, cats in unfamiliar surroundings, such as a boarding facility or veterinary clinic, may knead to block out distractions and focus on a feeling of contentment.

Creating a nest

Just as dogs turn in circles before lying down, a behavior that may come from their wild ancestors who tamped down the grass to make a bed, cat kneading may be an instinctive behavior to clear a place to rest.

Kneading until it hurts

Some cats may get downright aggressive with their kneading, using all four paws, sinking claws into human skin and yowling loudly. The cats are often in a trance-like state with legs that twitch or move stiffly.

If that happens, avoid punishing the cat. Kneading is a natural behavior, and negative reinforcement will likely confuse the cat and cause additional stress. There are, however, a number of things you can do:

  • Keep your cat’s nails trimmed.
  • When your cat kneads on you, place a thicker blanket between you and your fur baby.
  • Redirect your cat’s behavior to a different area, such as a blanket or cushion.
  • Distract your cat with treats or a play session with their favorite toy.

If the kneading becomes excessive, it’s possible your cat is feeling stressed about something and resorts to kneading to soothe itself. Synthetic pheromones such as Feliway, available in sprays or plug-in diffusers, may help the cat feel calmer. Otherwise, consult your veterinarian for other strategies to help your cat.

Cats are mysterious, but knead not to be

The ways of a cat’s mind or the whys of what they choose to do might be an ever-unsolved mystery. But they don’t have to be! Our comprehensive guide to cat behavior might shed a little light on the subject of your inscrutable kitty’s thoughts and moods. We’ll help you use your cat’s tail to tell the tale of their mood, better understand what’s in a purr, examine what your cat does all day when you’re not around, and just grasp the concept of cat behavior a little better.

Read How to Interpret Your Cat’s Behavior: A Taste of the Wild Guide here!

A Taste of the Wild Guide to Working Dogs and Their Jobs

Posted on August 12, 2021 - 9:41 am by
A Bernese Mountain Dog Pulling a Cart

For the sweeping majority of dogs, their primary ”occupation” is to provide companionship to their people. Tail thumps, warm kisses, constant company and unconditional love. It’s an important job, and one that most family dogs are more than happy to do every second of every day. “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,” after all.

As we’re all fully aware, there are dogs with actual jobs and some dog breeds that exist because of those jobs. We’ve all seen police K9 units and guide dogs making valuable contributions to society. But there are some working dogs that are more behind the scenes (quietly brightening the day at hospitals or nursing homes), and some work so far off the beaten path that many of us don’t even know that dogs could have those jobs (see avalanche rescue dogs below!).

The following collection entries from our ongoing series about dogs and their jobs is far from comprehensive, but if you’re a dog owner looking at hard working dog breeds, it should give you some insight on the wide world of working dogs. What jobs can a working dog have? What dog breeds are best for those jobs? Read on!

Therapy Dogs Brighten the Day at Nursing Homes

A therapy dog lying in the lap of its owner on the couch.
A therapy dog doesn’t have to be one of the common working dog breeds, but it doesn’t hurt!

They’re the cuddly kind of service dogs. Even if the grandkids regularly come to visit, it’s never quite enough for those seniors living in nursing homes. Visiting therapy dogs can help ease feelings of loneliness, lift the spirits and simply provide a good time for all involved. Since most dogs are equal-opportunity lovers, they’ll park their muzzles on the nearest knee, nuzzle into palms and provide unconditional love to anyone with a soft lap and open arms.

It’s hard to say who likes the nursing home visits more: the therapy dogs or the residents. From the hands eagerly petting the soft coats to the tails banging against the floor, it’s safe to say that everyone wins when a dog visits. Service dogs like these can also help reduce anxiety, provide comfort and even promote social interaction among other seniors. Therapy dogs can come from any of the working dog breeds, but really, any of the dog breeds will do if the dog is snuggly enough.

READ MORE ABOUT THE GOOD CHEER THAT THERAPY DOGS BRING

K9 Cops Put the Teeth in Law Enforcement

A German shepherd dog lying in the grass wearing a police harness.
Police dogs can be from any of the working dog breeds, but German shepherds are the most common.

Day after day, police dogs risk their lives to work in dangerous situations and help protect their handlers and citizens from harm. As you can imagine, training a dog to handle the intricacies of patrol work, urban tracking and detection can be costly, and most police departments simply don’t have the budget for this kind of expense, relying on donations from private citizens and corporations. So our four-legged public servants who live to protect and serve are often true community efforts, and their dedication shows.

READ MORE ABOUT POLICE DOGS

Water Rescue Dogs Take Lifeguard Duties Seriously

A dog jumping into the water while wearing a rescue harness.
A job for water-loving dog breeds.

Water rescue dogs are one of the working dog breeds who have to be trained to perform a wide range of water-related duties. Their primary job is to rescue struggling swimmers, but that’s no simple task. Water rescue dogs are trained to swim to the victim, who then grabs a handle on the top of the dog’s life jacket and is towed to safety. If the swimmer is unconscious, some dogs can flip the person on their back so their head is out of water, grip the upper arm and bring them to shore. Or if a small boat is stranded, the dog can use a rope to tow the vessel and passengers in. Although any dog can be trained for water rescue, the best water rescue dogs are large breeds that have the strength and endurance to tow people and/or boats over distances of a mile or more.

READ MORE ABOUT WATER RESCUE DOGS

The Bernese Mountain Dog Is a Dog of All Trades

A Bernese mountain dog pulling a cart on wheels through the grass.
Bernese mountain dogs are the jacks-of-all-trades of working dog breeds.

They’re smart enough to herd livestock. Brave enough to protect the farm. Strong enough to pull carts. Cool enough to … deliver cheese? The Bernese mountain dog, also known as the “working dogs of the Alps” have a long history of important work. And today, this strong breed excels in agility, herding, tracking, rally and even drafting and therapy.

READ MORE ABOUT THE BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

Avalanche Rescue Dogs: The Search for Survivors

A Saint Bernard standing in the foothills of a mountain range with a small barrel of supplies tied around its neck.
Saint Bernards are the primary dog breed used for avalanche rescue.

When millions of pounds of unchecked snow come barreling down a mountain, your best bet for survival often comes on four legs. Search and rescue and avalanche rescue dogs are highly trained canines who can cover ground much faster than their human counterparts. For instance, an avalanche dog can typically search 2.5 acres — roughly the area of two football fields — in about 30 minutes. To search the same area, it would take 20 people about eight times longer. These dogs have proved so successful that many ski resorts now station avalanche rescue dogs on the mountainside with their ski patrol teams.

READ MORE ABOUT AVALANCHE RESCUE DOGS

German Shepherds: The Ultimate Working Dogs

A view from behind of a German shepherd dog.German shepherds are an all-purpose dog breed.

German shepherds have held a wide array of job titles over the decades, from herding dogs and guide dogs for the visually impaired to police dogs that apprehend criminals and detect illegal substances. They obviously make great guard dogs. They’ve also joined the military and worked as search-and-rescue dogs. When they’re not on the job, German shepherds are known to be outstanding athletes, snagging the blue ribbon in sports such as agility, rally, tracking, obedience and herding. Can a dog be a workaholic? If so, the German shepherd dog would certainly qualify.

READ MORE ABOUT GERMAN SHEPHERDS

A Series About the Working Dog

In addition to all the cool stories we discuss above, Taste of the Wild has many, many more articles about the ways that the working dog does good in the world. After you’re done checking out our favorites, dive deeper into our Dogs at Work series, where we discuss everything from doggy politicians to guard dogs to dog breeds who have noses for sniffing out electronics. We’ve talked about specific breeds like border collies and the Portuguese water dog, as well as the Siberian husky dog and other working breeds. You’ll learn about the search-and-rescue dog, hunting dogs, military working dogs and even the bodyguard dog. But it’s not just about the working group of dogs; any other dogs who can or have held jobs might make appearances!

Caution: After reading so much about the working dog, you might be inspired to get to work yourself!

Dogs at Work: Portuguese Water Dogs

Posted on August 5, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Most people in the United States know of the Portuguese water dog (PWD) breed thanks to Bo and Sunny, the happy-go-lucky residents of the White House during the Obama administration. But long before that, they had a reputation as valuable crew members aboard Portuguese fishing vessels.

History of the PWD

No one is sure how Portie ancestors were first brought to Portugal. Some believe the Berbers, people from a Roman province in North Africa, sailed into port with the dogs on board. Others conjecture that the Goths, Germanic people of the Balkan area, first brought the dogs to shore.

Once in Portugal, fishermen recognized the value of the dogs and were quick to employ them on their ships. Since Porties have waterproof coats, webbed paws and are excellent swimmers, they were used to recover nets and tackle that fell overboard, drive fish into nets, swim messages from ship to shore or ship to ship and even guard the day’s catch once the ship was docked for the night. Retired fishermen were known to rent their dogs to pocket a little extra income.

As the fishing industry made use of new technologies, there was a less of a need for PWDs, and by the 1930s, their numbers had dwindled. Thankfully, a wealthy shipping magnate by the name of Vasco Bensaude started a breeding program to preserve the dogs.

Portuguese water dogs were first brought to the United States in 1958, and the American Kennel Club recognized them as part of the working dog group in 1984.  Today, Porties can be found diving into pools and running through sprinklers as family pets.  They have a reputation for being good with children, easy to train and eager to please.  It’s no surprise that the breed excels at water trials, but they can also be good at obedience and agility or as service or therapy dogs. A PWD named Dutch worked rescue and recovery at the World Trade Center site after 9/11.

An interior graphic detailing six fun facts about Portuguese water dogs.

When the Wagger Doesn’t Work: Tail Injuries in Dogs

Posted on July 29, 2021 - 3:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

If there’s one form of canine communication we can all understand, it’s the tail. Sweeping back and forth like a windshield wiper, it’s the perfect symbol of dog bliss. But what happens when the tail is injured? Here are a few ways dogs typically hurt their hindmost parts.

Tail trauma

Trauma is one of the most common reasons for tail injuries in dogs. A tail may accidentally be slammed in a door. Or injuries can happen when dogs are hit by cars or fall off a bed. Even pulling a dog’s tail too hard can cause problems.

Since the tail contains bony vertebrae which protect nerves, trauma can lead to broken vertebrae and damaged nerves. If the injury happens at the end of the tail, in some cases, the tail may be able to heal on its own. But serious injury may require surgery to remove part or all of the tail.

Happy tail syndrome

Is it possible for dogs to be too happy? It can be if they end up with “happy tail syndrome.” This happens when a dog wags its tail so hard that the appendage slaps against nearby hard surfaces, like kennels, walls and furniture, until it’s injured and bleeding. These dogs are often so happy, they think nothing of wagging their tails down your hallway, flinging drops of blood against the walls until your house looks like a crime scene.

The cheerful culprits tend to be large dogs with long, short-haired tails, such as Labrador retrievers. The trouble is, you can’t tell them to stop wagging until their tails heal, which may take six weeks or more.  During healing, it’s important to keep the wound clean and watch for infections. Laser therapy may help healing and sometimes sutures are needed to close the wound.

Veterinarians will often wrap the tail in bandages or duct-tape plastic syringe cases to the tail in an effort to prevent further injury. Dogs may need to wear the “cone of shame” to keep from pulling off bandages. In severe cases, tail amputation may be needed.

Limber tail syndrome

Also known as cold tail or swimmer’s tail, this is a painful muscle condition that happens after a dog overexerts itself. The tail will typically droop limply and may be painful to the touch, mostly at the point it connects to the body. It might almost look like the tail is broken.

Large working dogs, hunting breeds and athletic dogs such as Labrador retrievers, English pointers and golden retrievers are typically affected.

Limber tail may occur after a weekend of swimming, especially in cold water, or the day after an outing at the beach, where your dog wagged their tail all day with the kids. It also happens in hunting dogs when they’re transported in a kennel and spend hours in the wet and cold.

The good news is the tail usually improves with a little rest. Your veterinarian may also prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.

Obsessive tail chasing

Some dogs like to spin in circles and chase their tails. Of those, there are a few who will actually bite or chew on it if they catch it. There can be a variety of explanations for this, but one is obsessive behavior.

Some breeds may be predisposed to the condition, including bull terriers, dachshunds and Jack Russell terriers. It may start early, with pups furiously spinning as a form of play. But if it intensifies over time and starts happening with more frequency, there may be a behavior issue behind it.

No one is sure exactly what causes the problem. In some cases, there may be underlying pain in the tail, stomach or skin. Some theorize that early separation from the litter or conflict in the home environment may be part of it. In some cases, excitement, fear or stress can trigger the behavior.

Dogs with this issue should not be punished. A veterinarian should examine the dog to see if there are any underlying health causes. Otherwise, behavior modification, exercise and possibly medication may help dogs focus on other things besides their tails.

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Would You Believe Cats Get Acne, Too?

Posted on July 22, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Oh, the embarrassment of those unsightly blemishes. While often the source of teenage angst in humans, acne doesn’t have the same social repercussions for cats. In fact, feline acne has nothing to do with a cat’s teenage years or hormonal roller coasters going on inside the body. So what’s the deal with acne in cats?

Feline acne is a skin condition that affects the chin and lips, including the lower lip, the corners where the lips meet, and less commonly, the upper lip. Hair follicles in these areas become plugged with oil and dead skin, leading to redness, irritation, blackheads or worse. Cats can experience this condition episodically or it can be a persistent problem.

Signs of feline acne

Early signs of feline acne include skin inflammation, blackheads, spotty hair loss, crusts and dark flecks of debris. Secondary bacterial or fungal infections can lead to worsening of signs, and plugged hair follicles can become filled with pus and rupture.  The affected area can become swollen, itchy and painful, and hair loss may become more widespread. In chronic cases, skin scarring can occur.

What causes it?

Of course, we can’t blame these feline skin lesions on too many greasy French fries. But experts still aren’t clear what, exactly, causes the condition. Some blame poor grooming habits, stress or abnormal skin oil production. Others point to viral infections or a compromised immune system, which can lead to microscopic Demodex mites infiltrating the hair follicles. Other theories include underlying allergies to plastic food bowls, food or environmental irritants.

How to help your cat at home

Start by replacing any plastic food or water bowls with ceramic or stainless-steel bowls.

If your cat will tolerate it, gently soak the problem area with a washcloth dipped in warm water two or three times a day to help soften and remove crusts and open plugged hair follicles. Do not use any over-the-counter ointments or treatments intended for people.

When to see your veterinarian

If you don’t see any improvement, visit with your veterinarian. The doctor may suggest some diagnostic procedures. A skin scraping may be recommended to check for Demodex mites. They may also suggest a bacterial culture or fungal culture for ringworm. Sometimes, cats can develop a lesion on the lower jaw from tooth root abscesses, so a dental X-ray may be in order. Rarely, a skin biopsy may be recommended.

Treating feline acne

Gently shaving the area can make it easier to clean and enable topical medications, such as shampoos, ointments or wipes, to be applied directly to the skin. The doctor may recommend a topical treatment that helps flush the hair follicles or a medicated treatment to fight bacteria or fungal infections. In severe cases, he or she may prescribe oral medications or an injection to treat infections or help soothe inflammation.

Keeping your cat’s chin and the skin around the lips clean may help prevent outbreaks, but for many cats, the condition can flare periodically. If that happens, your veterinarian can provide guidance to help keep your cat comfortable.

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Dog Ear Cleaning 101

Posted on July 15, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A dog with long ears sitting on the beach at sunset.

If you bathe your dog at home, trim their nails and groom their coat, you may have thought about cleaning your dog’s ears at home, too. It is possible, but you should always ask your veterinarian first because it’s not always necessary. If your vet does recommend cleaning your dog’s ears at home, we’ve got some tips on how to do it safely.

Your Dog’s Ear Canal Is Self-Cleaning

Believe it or not, healthy dog ears come with a self-cleaning feature. In this process, known as epithelial migration, the skin in the ear canal gradually migrates outwards from the eardrum (the tympanic membrane), carrying with it excess debris.

So, if the ears aren’t bothering your dog and your furry friend gets regular checkups, it’s usually best to leave their ears alone.

Ear Infections Can Make Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Necessary

Sometimes, however, underlying allergies, a secondary bacterial or fungal ear infection and other problems can disrupt the natural ear-cleaning process and make it necessary for you to clean your dog’s ears.

However, you should never put anything in your dog’s ears without first consulting with your vet. Some cleansers or medications may include ingredients that can be problematic if your dog’s eardrum is ruptured. Alcohol may sting and further inflame the skin.

My Dog Has Itchy Ears — Are They Infected?

If your dog is scratching at one or both ears and shaking their head, that’s usually a sign there’s a problem. Other symptoms of ear infections, ear mites or other problems include an unusual odor and a brownish, waxy buildup. The ear may also be painful to the touch.

If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to take them for a checkup. Your vet can examine your dog’s ear canal, including the eardrum, and take samples of ear discharge to help diagnose what’s causing the problem.

In more complicated cases, your vet may need to perform an ear flush to enable proper examination and treatment. Sedation is usually recommended for your dog’s safety and comfort. Severe cases may require surgery, so it is important to control an ear infection if you want to avoid getting to this stage.

If your vet has recommended that you clean your dog’s ears due to an ear infection or another problem, we’ve got some tips to make it easier on both of you.

How to Clean Dog Ears

First, help your dog become accustomed to having their ears handled — ideally, before your dog ever has an ear problem. The next time your dog is sprawled on the couch relaxing with you, gently touch their ears and praise them for calm behavior. Over time, gradually advance to lifting your dog’s ear flap and looking inside the ear. Again, offer praise or a treat when your dog remains calm.

Notice how your dog’s ears look when they’re healthy. Depending on your dog’s skin pigmentation, the skin on the inside of the ear flap should typically be soft and pink, but not red, inflamed or thickened.

Before You Clean Your Dog’s Ears

Set up in an area that’s easy to clean up, such as a bathroom or outdoors. During ear cleaning, your dog may want to shake their head, releasing the ear cleaning solution and ear contents, so you may want to lay a towel down and also dress accordingly.

Use only the ear cleanser that has been prescribed by your vet. Again, you want to avoid any ingredients that could make your dog’s ear condition worse.

Add the Dog Ear Cleaning Solution

Use the ear cleaning solution that your vet recommends — do not use homemade dog ear cleaner unless told to do so by your vet. Homemade remedies may damage your dog’s ears.

Since dogs have L-shaped ear canals, you’ll want to gently pull up on the ear flap to slightly straighten the canal, then fill the ear canal with cleanser. Gently massage the base of your dog’s ear to help loosen any debris deep in the canal. Your dog may lean into this because it feels sooooo good. After a few minutes, allow your dog to shake their head, releasing the cleanser and any debris from the ear canal.

If this process seems messy and you’re wondering how to clean dog ears without solution, talk to your vet first. They can advise you on the best way to clean your dog’s ears, especially if they have frequent ear infections and routine ear cleaning is recommended.

Mop Up the Dog Ear Cleanser

Gently remove the remaining cleanser with soft gauze squares or cotton balls. Never put anything, including cotton swabs, into the ear canal, because this can pack debris deeper into the canal or damage the ear itself. Simply mop up what came out of the ear canal using gauze wrapped around your finger or a cotton ball.

Give Your Dog Lots of Hugs

The last step is to reward your dog for a job well done. Give them plenty of praise and perhaps a tasty treat so they always associate ear cleanings with a positive experience.

For more at-home grooming tips, read our Taste of the Wild guide to pet grooming.