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Increasing Basset Hound Life Expectancy

December 4, 2022January 13, 2023 sweetdoglife

Having a Basset Hound is a great addition to your family. Having a Basset Hound is great because they are loyal, they love to play and they can be very funny. The best part about a Basset Hound is that they can live a very long life. The average Basset Hound life expectancy is ten years.

However, there are some things you can do to help increase the lifespan of your Basset Hound. This is what the next paragraphs will discuss.

Basset Hound Life Expectancy – Health issues

Whether you have a Basset Hound or not, you need to be aware of health issues that affect their lifespan. Basset Hounds tend to gain weight rapidly and are at high risk for obesity. This can result in problems with heart, kidney, and digestive systems. They also have a higher risk for joint problems.

Basset Hounds are also at risk for dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that can lead to death. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a progressive disorder that causes the heart to become enlarged, thin, and weak. The disease can be diagnosed as early as one year of age. The condition can cause weakness, fainting, and other symptoms.

Basset Hounds are also prone to a number of eye disorders. Glaucoma is the most common one. Glaucoma affects 40% of dogs with it, and can cause blindness if it is not treated. The condition is caused by improper drainage of fluids in the eyes. The main symptom is a bluing of the cornea.

Basset Hounds are also vulnerable to skin disorders. They are prone to ticks, ear mites, and other parasites. If left untreated, these parasites can cause discomfort and pain. They also can invade the dog’s body and cause it to become infected.

Basset Hounds are also susceptible to osteochondritis dissecans, a painful joint disorder. Osteochondritis dissecans occurs when cartilage separates from the bone. This can affect adult Bassets, but is more common in puppies.

basset hound lifespan — Photo by Jacopo Maia on Unsplash

Personality

Whether you’re looking for a family pet or a hunting dog, the Basset Hound is a good choice. It is a friendly dog that gets along well with other dogs and people. It is also very gentle with children.

Aside from its cute personality, the Basset Hound is also known for its excellent olfaction. It has 220 million smell receptors and follows its nose with single-minded determination.

The Basset Hound is a great hunting dog and enjoys tracking and hunting small animals. However, it isn’t a great watchdog and can become aggressive if it is left alone.

The Basset Hound is characterized by its low, long body and its short, powerful legs. Its paws are large and sturdy, with tough pads. Depending on the breed, the Basset Hound may have a short coat or a longer, thicker coat.

The Basset Hound is very friendly and gets along well with other dogs and children. It can also get along with cats if it is socialized at a young age.

The Basset Hound is devoted to its owners. It can also be stubborn, but it is rarely a problem. It loves to please its owners, and will reward them with affection.

Basset Hounds are generally well-behaved indoors, but can be a nuisance barker if left alone. They are best suited for homes with other dogs or cats.

Diet

Increasing your Basset Hound’s life expectancy requires a good diet and regular exercise. A Basset Hound diet should contain high quality proteins, low carbs, and a good omega fatty acid ratio.

Biologically appropriate diets promote weight management, improve nutrient absorption, and reset the metabolism. These diets should contain zero starch, no corn, wheat, or soy, and are free from artificial additives.

There are several health conditions that can shorten the lifespan of a Basset Hound. Obesity is one of them. A dog that weighs too much puts pressure on its back, and can cause arthritis and heart disease.

A biologically appropriate diet can reduce inflammation, and can reset the metabolism. A low carbohydrate diet can reduce digestive problems. A high quality joint supplement may help keep your Basset Hound happy and healthy.

Bloat and torsion are two common ailments in Basset Hounds. Bloat occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off the blood supply to the spleen. Torsion can happen on its own, or in conjunction with bloat.

Getting rid of ear infections is also important. This can be painful to your dog, and it may require treatment with medication or antifungal agents.

Regular veterinary visits can detect problems before they become serious. Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets.

Eyelid problems can also occur. A doctor can correct eyelid problems.

Some Basset Hounds also develop problems with their backs. The short legs of this breed make them prone to joint problems.

Exercise

Keeping Basset Hounds fit is important for their longevity. They’re natural hunters, but they also have to be trained and exercised. Not exercising Bassets means they’ll be prone to back and joint problems, which can shorten their lifespan.

One of the most common problems for Basset Hounds is obesity. Obesity is a cause of diabetes and other health problems. Bassets need a balanced diet to keep their bodies healthy.

Bassets are susceptible to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a condition where the thighbone does not fit properly into the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia involves abnormal growth of cartilage. These conditions will likely cause other joint disorders.

Bassets can also be prone to eyelid problems. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness. Bassets can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions.

Taking care of a Basset Hound is a lot like taking care of a child. Brush their teeth regularly, keep their paws clean, and give them lots of attention. You should also consider giving them an hour or two of exercise per day.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends feeding Basset Hounds a high quality, balanced diet. It should be free of artificial colors, preservatives, and flavorings. It should also include healthy amounts of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help manage skin inflammation and are important for Bassets’ health.

Drooling

Having Basset Hounds as pets can be a great experience for children, but there are some health concerns that need to be taken into consideration. These dogs are considered to be docile and friendly. They are also good with children and cats.

One of the most common health problems for Basset Hounds is glaucoma, which is a condition that causes the eye to become inflamed. If left untreated, glaucoma can turn into blindness.

Other health problems that can affect Basset Hounds include thrombopathia, a clotting disorder that causes the blood to not clot properly in an injury. These disorders can also cause excessive bleeding.

Another health issue that can be a concern is elbow dysplasia. If this condition is left untreated, the joint can pop and become painful. It can also lead to joint injuries.

Basset Hounds are also known to develop ear infections. This can be a very painful condition for the dog. This condition usually results in redness around the ear canal, but may also include swelling.

Basset Hounds can also be prone to hip dysplasia. This condition can be painful and can cause joint rubbing. Keeping a Basset Hound healthy will help them avoid these problems in the future.

Another health concern for Basset Hounds is obesity. When a dog is overweight, it is more prone to developing joint injuries, gastric dilatation volvulus, and paralysis.

Basset Hound Life Expectancy – Final Words

Getting your dog checked out regularly is a great way to ensure they’ll be around for a while. A pet insurance plan can help you out in these circumstances. Whether you are looking for a full service plan or a bare bones policy, be sure to check with your vet to see if you have insurance for your furry friend. The cost of pet insurance can vary dramatically, so be sure to shop around to find the best deal. Having a pet insurance plan may also help you avoid the cost of vet bills in the event of an injury.

The following should help you make the best possible decision: check with your vet to see if you are covered by your insurance plan, then make sure to understand your plan’s deductibles and copayments before paying out.

What’s the Average Shih Tzu Weight and Height?

September 30, 2022January 13, 2023 sweetdoglife

There are many variables when it comes to the average shih tzu weight and height. Some are naturally overweight, while others are underweight. Height is somewhat more consistent from one Shih Tzu to another. Ultimately, your licensed veterinarian is your best judge.

Shih Tzu Size

When you’re considering adopting a Shih Tzu, you’ll probably want to know about their size.

Puppies usually reach their adult size by about eight to twelve months. Some will grow more slowly than others. However, most Shih Tzu puppies grow quickly and reach their adult size at around ten months old.

According to the American Kennel Club, the average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is between twelve and 15 years, if properly cared for.

Average Shih Tzu Weight

Depending on their gender and genetic makeup, they can grow from about 7 to 20 pounds. These are the standard size ranges for both European and American Shih Tzu puppies.

Since this breed tends to carry excess weight, keeping it under control is important for the health of your canine friend. Your Shih Tzu’s weight can be controlled by following the basic rules of calories in, calories out. This means that your dog must eat less food than it burns. Food that is high in carbohydrates and protein will lead to a calorie surplus.

According to AKC breed standards, the ideal weight for a Shih Tzu is between nine and 16 pounds (4.3 kg). However, many Shih Tzu adult dogs are larger than these ideal weights, weighing anywhere from eight to twenty pounds.

Shih Tzu Height

Average Shih Tzu height may vary, depending on genetics, diet, and exercise. A healthy adult Shih Tzu reach its full size at ten to twelve months old. If you’re worried about your pup’s height, there are a few telltale signs that can indicate a slowing growth rate.

The average Shih Tzu weight and height is similar for males and females. Their adult height is between eight and eleven inches, measured from the floor to their withers.

Shih Tzu Weight Chart

If you are trying to find out the ideal weight of your shih tzu, it’s important to use a shih tzu weight chart.

A shih tzu is a small breed of dog that is prone to a few common health problems, including hip dysplasia and a luxating patella. These conditions can prevent your shih tzu from being able to live an active life, and a shih tzu weight table will show you what’s normal for your dog’s weight.

You can use a bathroom scale to weigh your Shih Tzu at home, or you can visit your veterinarian to have your dog weighed. Using a bathroom scale, you weigh yourself first, then weigh your dog. The difference in weight represents the weight of your dog.

If you’d like to get a dedicated dog scale, you can spend a few hundred dollars on one.

Shih Tzu Calorie Intake

There are many factors to consider when determining your Shih Tzu’s calorie intake. Firstly, keep in mind that dogs have a high metabolism, so they need to be fed regularly.

However, overfeeding your dog can result in weight gain, which is bad for their health. If you can, keep your Shih Tzu at a moderate weight. Overweight or obese dogs pant heavily, and they tend to be uncomfortable outdoors. They also tend to suffer from heart problems, joint problems, and an increased risk of diabetes.

Shih Tzus need a steady source of food throughout the day, so be sure to place clean bowls out for them all day. You can use a simple bathroom scale to measure the amount of food your Shih Tzu is eating each day. A scale is the easiest way to determine your dog’s calorie intake.

Average Shih Tzu Weight and Height: Final Comments

We have talked about the average Shih Tzu weight and height at adult age. But what about newborns? Newborn puppies weigh around 1.25 pounds.

The AKC standard for a show ring-ready Shih Tzu is around 16 pounds. However, if your Shih Tzu is a house pet, you can safely keep him at up to 18 pounds.

Here’s a simple home test to gauge the weight of your Shh Tzu. If you feel ribs easily or can barely feel your dog’s ribs, it’s possible that your doggie is not at the right weight level.

Cane Corso Ear Crop: Is it Absolutely Necessary?

September 26, 2022January 13, 2023 sweetdoglife

A Cane Corso ear crop can be performed in order to improve the health and comfort of this breed. It can also help the breed in its traditional guard dog role much like it was back in Roman ancestry. This dog is a great choice for people who want a dog that can protect their livestock and home from potential dangers.

Benefits of a Cane Corso Ear Crop

A Cane Corso ear crop is a relatively simple procedure that helps to prevent infections and discomfort. This will save your dog from repeated vet visits and antibiotic treatments.

Many breeders prefer to crop the ears of the breed, in part to give them a more “traditional” look.

Others argue that cropped ears give the breed a more regal, menacing and powerful appearance.

Cane Corso ear crop — Photo by Shubham Sharan on Unsplash

Non-Invasive Procedure

An ear crop is a cosmetic and non-invasive procedure. It should be performed by a licensed veterinarian to avoid tearing or scarring.

It is a painless and simple procedure, and there is no need for the ear to be bandaged or splinted afterward. The process involves cutting the tail at the fourth vertebra and stitching it closed.

During the cropping process, the veterinarian will make sure to avoid cutting the ear cartilage and will use a good quality ear cleaning solution.

A Cane Corso ear crop is usually performed under anesthesia. The ear heals quickly and usually stands upright on its own after about a week and a half.

Ear cropping is considered legal in some areas, although many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations do not support this practice.

Ideal Age

In general, ear cropping should be done when the dog is between six to eight weeks old. This is a great time to get it done as the cartilage is still developing and makes the process easier. Older dogs, on the other hand, may have trouble getting their ears to stand up.

Because of the risk of failure with older dogs, some veterinarians are unwilling to perform an ear crop on an adult Cane Corso, but others will.

Ear Cleaning and Maintenance

Some breeds are naturally endowed with long, floppy ears. For instance, the bloodhound has long, floppy ears that help it hear and pick up scents. While the ears of the Cane Corso are not quite as large, they are still functional for the dog.

Cropping your dog’s ears may or may not prevent infections, but it may make it easier for you to notice if it has an ear infection.

While there are pros and cons to either cropping your dog’s ears or docking its tail, it’s important to remember that it’s not a good idea for your dog to have sensitive ears.

You can help your canine friend avoid these problems by cleaning the ears regularly. After cleaning your dog’s ears, you should massage the ear for 30 seconds. Then, entice him to shake his head to get rid of any excess fluid and wipe off the ears clean with a clean cloth.

Cane Corso Ear Crop: Final Words

Although the Cane Corso’s ears are naturally upright, the breed has adapted to have floppy ears through selective breeding. While some people choose to leave their dog’s ears natural, a cropped ear can be beneficial to the dog’s appearance and health.

Keep in mind that a Cane Corso ear crop is not something that’s absolutely necessary and the results are never guaranteed.

Jack Russell Terrier Life Expectancy: Way Above Average!

September 17, 2022January 13, 2023 sweetdoglife

A Jack Russell Terrier life expectancy can range from 15 to 20 years, but some breeds live for longer. This breed, which originated in England, is white bodied but can be any colour. Its lifespan will depend on its overall health and its general temperament.

In this article, we will discuss the common health conditions that affect the breed and may impact its lifespan.

Jack Russell Terrier Life Expectancy: Joint Conditions

Patellar Luxation

This condition refers to the dislocation of a dog’s kneecap. The incidence of this condition is higher in dogs with an age of more than three years and in dogs that were older. In addition, female dogs that had been neutered have a lower incidence.

Patellar luxation in dogs is often caused by a variety of factors. While there are no specific single factor causing a patellar luxation, breed-related genetics may predispose a dog to developing the disorder.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calve-Perthes is a condition that affects small dogs. It is thought to have a genetic basis but is still not fully understood.

The disease causes degeneration of the hip joint, resulting in painful inflammation. It affects more specifically the pelvis and thigh bone area.

The disease begins in childhood, usually between six months and three years of age. The symptoms start with a bit of lameness that becomes more severe over time. As the condition is progressing, muscle atrophy occurs, resulting in the inability of the dog to bear weight on its affected leg. The disease will cause the bone and the cartilage in the hip joint area to gradually deteriorate.

It requires a full diagnostic workup, and lifelong medication is often necessary to control the symptoms. Moreover, in severe cases, periodic blood tests may be required for monitoring. If left untreated, the disease can lead to involuntary tail chasing. Dogs may even injure themselves.

Eye Diseases

A Jack Russell Terrier life expectancy is generally much above the average dog but some medical conditions are more common than others.

The CERF, an organization that aims to eliminate hereditary eye diseases in purebred dogs, lists cataracts and lens luxation, as two of the most common eye diseases in the breed.

Lens Luxation

Lens luxation, also called Ectopia lentis, is a genetic condition in the Jack Russell Terrier and usually develops between the ages of three and eight. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness and requires surgery to correct the problem. As a result, dogs with this condition may need to spend several days in the hospital.

It is possible to detect lens luxation at an early age by performing a thorough eye examination. Symptoms include increased tear production and continual pawing at the eye. If this condition persists after a few months, you should consult an ophthalmologist.

PRA

PRA stands for “progressive retinal atrophy” and is degenerative condition affecting the eyes and is caused by a genetic mutation in the ADAM9 gene. The mutation affects photoreceptors, resulting in impaired vision. This condition can affect both the left and right eyes. Fortunately, there is a gene therapy available for the disorder.

PRA has two forms: early onset and late onset. Early onset PRA results in degeneration of rods and cones, and late onset is caused by gradual degeneration of the pigmented layer of the retina. Luckily, the condition does not result in total blindness in dogs, but it does decrease vision.

Congenital Deafness

One of the most common ailments that affect Jack Russell terriers is congenital deafness. This degenerative condition is known as spinocerebellar ataxia and carries no known cure or definitive prognosis. This disease is recessive, meaning that both parents must carry a certain genetic marker to pass it down to their offspring. However, breeders can test for this disease to determine the risk of developing the disorder.

The most effective method for determining deafness is through BAER testing. This test involves observing a dog’s response to a sound stimulus in the non-visual field.

However, this method cannot distinguish between unilateral and bilateral deafness because it is not sensitive to stimulus perception through other senses. It also fails to identify blunted responses caused by stress or expired novelty of a repeated stimulus.

Furthermore, in the home environment, deaf animals may be unable to be wakened up by an auditory stimulus.

Jack Russell Terrier Life Expectancy: Wrap-Up

If you are looking for a dog with a long lifespan, the Jack Russell Terrier life expectancy checks that box. With an average in the 15-20 year range, the breed clearly surpasses the average lifespan of a dog. While there are common ailments affecting the breed, they evidently are not widespread enough to hinder the chances of living a long and healthy life!

6 Ways to Save on Veterinary Bills

September 10, 2022September 10, 2022 sweetdoglife

There are ways to save on veterinary bills, if you know where to look. Using credit cards or CareCredit to cover expenses, getting quotes from several vets, and using payment plans can all help. Luckily, there are also many private veterinary discount plans, too. Just remember to be aware of what you’re paying for and be comfortable declining services that you don’t think you need.

Save on Veterinary Bills with Scratchpay

Scratchpay is a no-interest financing option that can help you save money on veterinary bills. Veterinary bills are expensive and can quickly spiral out of control when your animal becomes sick or injured. Luckily, there are ways to save money on your pet’s care, including applying for pet insurance.

Scratchpay accepts applications around the clock and provides an instant response. The system also shows rates in real-time so you know how much you’ll be charged. When you’re ready to pay off your veterinary bill, your veterinarian will request payment directly from Scratchpay.

The company uses your credit score to determine how much you can borrow and considers your income as well.

CareCredit

If you’re a pet owner, CareCredit is a great way to save on veterinary bills. It allows you to pay over time and has no interest. It works at many veterinarians’ offices and can be used for both planned and routine veterinary care. You can also use CareCredit to pay for medications and prescription pet food.

If you can’t afford to pay full price upfront, this option can be an excellent alternative to losing your pet because of financial hardship.

Both CareCredit and Scratchpay offer flexible payment plans. You’ll have to pay a small fee to your veterinarian to use CareCredit, but you can pay the rest over time through a line of credit card.

Both CareCredit and Scratchpay offer varying terms, so you’ll need to find out what works best for you.

Getting Quotes from Vets

Asking for quotes from multiple vets is an excellent way to reduce your veterinary expenses. Regardless of whether you are planning on having surgery performed on your pet or just need a routine checkup, getting quotes from several vets will ensure you get the best price. It also means you don’t have to accept the first quote you receive. Once you have received several quotes, you can negotiate with them for the lowest one.

Ask your vet to recommend a few specialists that specialize in treating your pet. Many veterinarians mark up their medications, so be sure to compare prices before you make the decision. If you find a cheaper price elsewhere, ask your vet to match it. You can also ask your vet to refer you to nearby veterinary schools and teaching hospitals.

Also, some medication for pets can be sold by drugstores, usually at much cheaper prices.

Pet Health Insurance

Pet health insurance is an important way to save money on your pets’ veterinary bills. Even a simple exam can run into hundreds or thousands of dollars. The costs may include blood tests, IV fluids, antibiotics, and surgery. Even more common ailments such as arthritis and heart conditions can lead to expensive and ongoing treatment. These costs can quickly add up, leading to heavy debt. In the event of an emergency, pet health insurance will protect you from these unexpected costs.

When selecting an insurance plan for your pet, make sure to find a company that has a solid reputation. You don’t want to deal with an unsatisfactory customer service experience. Look for reviews of pet insurance companies online or on social media. Also, talk to your veterinarian for recommendations.

Pet Meds Found at Big Box Stores

Pet meds from the big box store can save you money on your veterinarian’s bills. The first step is to find the best price for the medication. While veterinarians are the best place to find prescriptions, online pet stores are also a great source of affordable medication for your pet. Check out 1-800-PET-MEDS to find cheaper pet medication and look for discounts at feed stores as well.

Buying these medications from a big-box store can save you money on prescriptions, but you must make sure the pharmacy is reputable. Many knockoffs exist online, so you should be cautious. You should also be aware that some of these pharmacies fill prescriptions without the permission of a veterinarian.

Save on Veterinary Bills through Pet Fundraising

Pet fundraising is a way for pet owners to raise money to help with the costs of veterinary care. A successful fundraiser should focus on a specific goal, such as helping a pet owner pay for a veterinary visit. If possible, it should include proof of financial need, such as a photo of a vet’s invoice.

Pet fundraising can also benefit animal welfare organizations. Programs like the Paws 4 A Cure Foundation provide financial assistance to owners of dogs and cats who are suffering from various illnesses or conditions. However, pet owners must have a low-to-mid-income in order to qualify.

Other organizations, such as the Onyx and Breezy Foundation, help pet owners save on veterinary bills. You will need to fill out a few forms and the organization will send the money directly to your vet.