Diagnosing and Treating Dog Allergies

More often than not, our pets can experience some of the same problems that we do. One such example is that dogs can also suffer from allergies. Fortunately, there are numerous ways for dog allergies treatment so it is more of a matter of finding out exactly what the cause for the allergic reaction is.

Dogs, like people, show allergic symptoms when the immune system recognizes a certain substance as dangerous. These substances are present in everyday life and most dogs are not affected by them. However, a dog with allergies will have a reaction to the substance whenever it inhales, ingests or comes into contact with the substance. The manner in which it affects the dog depends on the allergen itself.

Dogs can become allergic to a long list of things but a few examples are pollen, mold spores, dust, fleas, cleaning products, insecticidal shampoos, certain food ingredients, among many others.

Any dog can develop allergic reactions at any point in their lives. There are some specific dog breeds like terriers, setters, retrievers and flat-faced breeds in which allergies are more common to develop.

Some of the symptoms that may be identified to help determine if your dog has allergies are itchy skin (which will result in excessive scratching), runny eyes, sneezing, vomiting, and diarrhea. Consulting a veterinarian is recommended if the dog presents any of these symptoms. The veterinarian will more accurately determine the cause of the allergies so the dog owner can make the necessary changes to stop the allergies.

Dog allergies treatments are specific to the allergen to which the dog is reacting to. Dog allergies caused by fleas can easily be treated with the use of flea control programs and products. Bathing the dog once a week is a good way to remove environmental allergens like pollen from the dog's skin and helps relieve the itching sensation. Asking a veterinarian about what shampoo to use is recommended, as bathing the dog with the wrong shampoo can worsen the problem. Cleaning the dog's bedding and vacuuming areas of the house where dust gathers is an effective treatment when dust is the cause for allergies. The most complex form of treatment is needed when dogs have a food allergy. Dogs must be put on a special diet until the allergic reactions has stopped manifesting. Once this is done, the dog is reintroduced to old foods to determine which the allergen is.

There are also a variety of allergy injections, medications and supplements that can either prevent or help treat allergies. These should only be administered to the dog with instructions by a veterinarian.

Most dog allergies treatments are simple and don't require much more special attention to the dog. The only important step is determining with the help a veterinarian what the allergen is that is causing the reaction so a treatment can be advised.

The Hawaiian Impact On Affenpinscher

The tidal-wave event in the modern history of the Affenpinscher was the birth of the famous Hawaiian litter. This occurred when Ellen and Gil Stoewsand, from Geneva, New York, bought a male whose name was Deer Run Goblin Del Cocagi from Tobin Jackson. After completing Goblin's championship, Mrs.Stoewsand searched for several years before she managed to obtain a female from Lucille Meystedt, Ch.Balu's Schwartz Diamant. Unexpectedly the Stoewsands received a six-month appointment to go to the University of Hawaii. Dr.Gil Stoewsand is a researcher for Cornell University. A few days into the new year of 1976, Gil, Ellen and their two daughters, Corrine and Cathy, with their two Affens landed in Honolulu. Because Hawaii is rabies free, the dogs had to remain in quarantine for four months. In February of 1976, while in quarantine, a litter of six puppies was delivered by C-section from Ch.Balu's Schwartz Diamant, who was called "Dema." Dr. and Mrs.Stoewsand had high praise for the concern and care their dogs received while in quarantine. They were allowed to visit them daily and the facilities were excellent. This information is included here to allay some of the fears associated with putting dogs into quarantine, as is necessary in England, parts of Europe and many of the rabies-free islands. Dogs, from most reports, come out of experience in good condition and well adjusted.

Of these six puppies out of Goblin and Dema, one did not survive the first week. Another male was very weak and lived only through the heroic efforts of the Stoewsands' youngest daughter, Cathy, and was later kept at their home as a pet. A third male was sold to a woman in Hawaii who later took the dog back to Germany. Of the four brought back to the mainland, two were kept and shown by Mrs.Stoewsand, Ch.El Cocagi Alii, whose name means "Royalty," and Ch.El Cocagi Eli Eli Wahine, which means "Black Girl" in Hawaiian. Alii was called "Taz" and was later sold to Julianna Bitter in California. "Posey," which was Eli Eli Wahine's call name, had a prestigious show career, starting with winning Best of Breed at the Affenpinscher Club of America's first specialty match in 1976. She was even more influential as a top-producing female.

The fourth puppy was a male bought by professional handler Robert Sharp for his daughter Jennifer. This dog was named Ch.El Cogagi Kamehameha (named for the last king of Hawaii) and called "Bear." He was the top-winning Affenpinscher for several years. On June 11,1978, Bear became the first Affenpinscher to receive an all-breed Best in Show, under judge Robert Wills at the Tonawanda Valley Kennel Club in upstate New York. In 1980 he won Best of Breed at the first officially supported entry for Affenpinschers. Champion El Cocagi Kamehaneha was a wonderful show dog and attracted many enthusiasts to the breed.

Mr.Sharp's assistant at the time, who conditioned, groomed and later owned Bear, was Bonnie (Hawkins) sellner. She has had a long and continuing association with the breed as a handler, owner and breeder. Her kennel name is Wyn Willow. Several dogs from her breeding out nf Kamehameha or his offspring have made an impact on the breed. Giancarlo Volante, from California, showed a triple Kamehameha great-grandson, Ch.Puff Von Apache Rauchen, who became the third Affenpinscher to win an all-breed Best in Show. He repeated this feat with several more Bests, including two in Mexico.

The Bernese Mountain Dog-A Swiss Treat

Bernese Mountain Dog

Let's take a look at the Bernese Mountain Dog or "Berner", by the numbers.

By all measure, this is a large category breed. The male's height ranges from 24 to 28 inches or 61 to 71 cm. It's weight tends to range from 85 to 110 pounds or 38 to 50 kg. The female, on the other hand, typically stands between 23 to 27 inches or 58 to 69 cm., just very slightly smaller than the male. Her weight ranges from 80 to 105 pounds or 36 to 48 kg. Again, just slightly smaller.

You can expect this breed to survive approximately 6 to 8 years. There is some debate about this though. Originally, life expectancy was 10 to 12 years but due to health considerations, which we'll address later, the numbers were reduced. A relatively recent and credible study of the subject determined that the actual life expectancy of the Bernese Mountain Dog was 7.2 years.

The litter size is typically 8 pups although this can vary significantly, ranging to as high as 14 pups.

It should be no surprise that this breed can be traced to the mountain areas of Switzerland. In fact, their name is derived from the Canton or State of Switzerland called Bern. But it is speculated that their true origin dates to the Roman occupation of the region, thousands of years ago. From what is known of the breed's development, not much attention, if any was given to serious pure breeding until the early 1900's. It wasn't until the late 1930's that the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The breed's coloring consists of basic black with brownish/rust colored cheeks, part of the chest, on all legs and under the tail. In addition, it has white on it's head, paws, chest and tail.

As mentioned earlier, this is a large dog, but can be very active and need regular exercise. Because of their size and temperament, small living quarters are not recommended. Give them space.

Their original use was for drafting, carting, tracking and general farm hand so the breed is conditioned to be useful. Mostly for this reason, the Bernese Mountain Dog needs to be with people without being left alone for long periods of time. It is also important, as with most dogs, that they come to know their owners as the alpha component in the relationship. They need a framework of clearly defined rules, conveyed early in their training process, which in turn, produces a cheerful and well balanced companion. Their intelligence can make the training must easier and effective as long as the owner is firm with the dog, without being overly dominant. This can also lead to a dog that is comfortable with young children and other animals for that matter. A caution is that no child should be left alone with a dog or any animal capable of harm; just common sense.

The breed suffers from ailments associated with most larger dogs, such a dysplasia in various parts of the body (hips particularly), some arthritis and allergies. Cancer seems to have become a particular problem for the breed, to the extent of shortening it's lifespan and sadly, taking some quite early in their lives.

The Berner is a shedder and seasonally heavy so regular grooming is not only a great bonding exercise but will lessen the shedding issue or at least make it easier to deal with.

With respect to the bonding experience with the Bernese Mountain Dog, this breed has an upbeat personality that requires a relationship with it's owner that is firm but loving. Positive re-enforcement, within clear boundaries, lots of room to run and play combined with long walks and regular grooming will ensure that you will enjoy a wonderful companion for many years.

Choosing the best dog breeds for you needs or preferences, can be overwhelming. If you wish to learn more about various dog breeds; their characteristics and breeding particulars, visit us at http://www.best-dogbreeds.com.

Tips On Taking Care Of Your Dog

I'm sure that all of us who own dogs can agree that they can be a real treat to have around the home. The truth of the matter is, however, if you aren't taking care of them as far as bathing is concerned, they can be rather stinky as well. That is why it is important for you to understand how to wash a dog properly because it is something that can be done at home relatively easily. It will save you a considerable amount of money when you are able to do this on your own when compared with how much you would spend taking them to a local shop and having it done for anywhere from $50-$100.

One of the first things that you need to think about when it comes to washing a dog is the type of shampoo that is used. When you look at the store, you will find that there is an entire area that is dedicated to pet shampoo, so it's important to know what you are using before you actually use it. In some cases, you will need a specific type of dog shampoo, such as when the dog has fleas or if it has sensitive skin. At other times, a more general product may be used. It is important for you to understand, however, that if you are washing the dog, you should only use dog shampoo, not shampoo meant for humans. You should also make sure that you use a natural shampoo to keep as many chemicals as possible off of the skin of your dog.

Now that you have the shampoo available, get the entire space ready where the dog is going to be bathed. If you're going to be bathing the dog outside, all that is really necessary is the shampoo, a brush, a towel and a garden hose. If you're going to be washing the dog indoors, you will still need the shampoo and a brush but you will need plenty of towels, especially if the dog tends to shake a lot.

Before washing the dog, brush them thoroughly to remove as much loose hair is possible and then wet the coat thoroughly. After the dog's coat has been made wet, apply the shampoo and then work it in thoroughly. Be cautious when in the area of the face, as some shampoos may burn the dog's eyes and you would not want to get it in their ears, or it could cause irritation.

After shampooing the dog, rinse them thoroughly until the water is running clear off of their fur. You should then put a large towel over the back of the dog which will keep them from shaking and throwing the water off around the room. Dry the dog off as thoroughly as possible with the towel and then if necessary, use a blow dryer to finish the job. Most dogs enjoy this part of the process, although the hairdryer may cause some stress if they are not comfortable with loud noises. That is why it is beneficial to dry them as thoroughly as possible before using the hairdryer.

Tina Freeman is the author of this article about dog shampoo and pet shampoo. She is a dog trainer for over 15 years and grew up taking care of dogs. During her free time she loves to go fishing and hiking in Minnesota.

A favor on Friday!

Hello Friends & Colleagues!

Its Friday and I am sure you are very focused on this evening or weekends game.  I hope you’ve heard about the good news from the recent PATS Eblast - Our Licensure bill was granted first consideration in senate committee!

I am asking you to dedicate just 5-10 minutes of your Monday schedule to call a PA state senator and urge them to support SB 957 & 967 you will not believe how easy it is and how much it means to our profession. If you would appreciate greater respect as an athletic training healthcare professional, I would hope you can recruit at least three other Athletic Trainer’s to do the same.

Thank you in advance for your time,

Sincerely,

Scott Dietrich
"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." - Elmer Letterman

 

How to call your Senators

Step 1 - Find your PA Senators (find) and ask them to support  Senate Bill #957- Osteopathic Board & Senate Bill #967 MD's (TOMLINSON)

Step 2 - Call the PA Senator for your district
once you are connected; use the script below to express your support
Please select only 1or 2 bullet points – you do not need to read them all!!

-----

Hello my name is [NAME] with [EMPLOYER’S NAME] and I am a constituent of Senator [NAME].

I am calling to express my support for Athletic Training Licensure legislation in the senate, which recently received first consideration approval in the senate appropriations committee.  The senate bills - SB 957 & SB 967 introduced by Senator Tomlinson establish licensure for Athletic Trainers (ATs).

Ø  Licensure is regarded as the highest form of regulation and would benefit and protect the general public of Pennsylvania.

Ø  Athletic Training is recognized by the American Medical Association as an allied health care profession.  ATs are already recognized in the Pennsylvania Medical Practice Act (of 1985) which is the law that relates to practicing medicine in PA in Section 51.1 which means the state does NOT need to create a new regulating body to oversee our profession. 

Ø  Athletic Training remains the only health care provider group who is “certified” and not “licensed” under the Pennsylvania State Boards of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine.

Ø  Athletic Trainers working in the Commonwealth care for and enhance the health and welfare of our clients through prevention, recognition, management, and rehabilitation of injuries. There are approximately 3000 Certified Athletic Trainers practicing in Pennsylvania which is currently the largest number of ATs of any state in the nation.

Ø  Currently there are 39 states that regulate athletic trainers through licensure in the nation. In fact, Pennsylvania is 1 of only 5 states to be regulated through certification.

Again, I ask that you vote in support of SB 957 & SB 967 for this legislation will help preserve the health and safety of physically active youth and adults throughout our state.

Thank you!

** You might need to indicate that you want a response from the senator!

Step 3 - Complete the survey below, and tell us what they said.

PATS Legislative Response Google Survey -Link

Vote for NATA President BEFORE Sept 28th 2011!!

For the first time ever, we have an exceptional opportunity to put a PATS member into the position of NATA President!!

The NATA Presidential Election started, Thursday, September 1^st and ends September 29th 2011 with long time PATS member and past District II Director, Jim Thornton, of Clarion University of Pennsylvania a final candidate. If elected, Jim would be the first PATS member or District II member to hold the position of NATA President.

You should receive an email today from the NATA with a unique registration code and instructions for casting your vote for your choice between Terry Noonan, MS, ATC, ART, or Jim Thornton, MS, ATC, PES. If you do not receive an email, please contact Holly McCauley at hollym@nata.org. For more information about each of the candidates go to: http://www.nata.org/2011-Presidential-Election

PLEASE - Share this with your Senators! - Bill referred to committee 5/3/11.

Greetings Senator                      ,

I am writing you today to ask for your support of Senate Bill 957 & 967 which was referred to your CONSUMER PROTECTION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE committee on May 3, 2011.  This is an important piece of legislation is necessary to protect and enhance the health and welfare of our clients (physically active youth & adults) in the PA Commonwealth.  

Athletic Training remains the only health care provider group who is "certified" and not "licensed" under the Pennsylvania State Boards of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine. Currently there are 39 other states that regulate athletic trainers through licensure in the nationwide. Pennsylvania is 1 of only 4 to be regulated through certification.

The primary goal of Licensure for Athletic Trainers in Pennsylvania is to define the relationship between the athletic trainer and physician more clearly.

Benefits to Pennsylvania citizens include:

•        Consumer protection, reduce the ability of unlicensed individuals who attempt to provide athletic training services to the public.

•        Increased access to the care of an athletic trainer due to the clarification of the population eligible for referral from a physician.

•        Decrease credentialing confusion that currently exists since athletic trainers will be licensees alongside all of other health care professionals under the Pennsylvania State Boards of Medicine(SB 967) and Osteopathic Medicine(SB957), such as Physician Assistants, Respiratory Therapist, Acupuncturists, Perfusionist, and Nurse-Midwives.

•        Greater access to athletic trainers for preventative medical services, potentially decreasing their overall medical costs.

Benefits to Physicians:

•        Firmly places the role of the athletic trainer under the direction of the physician.

•        Provides physicians with increased access options for using an athletic trainer thus reducing the number of injuries and dropping the costs of health care.

•        Many physicians currently refer physically active patients to athletic trainers for athletic training services. Due to the unclear definition of physically active, some physicians do not refer patients who may benefit from these services to athletic trainers or may refer patients inappropriately due to confusion.

Recent Education and Training Changes that support Licensure for Athletic Trainers

The current Athletic Training Practice Act dates back to December 2001. Since that time there have been several meaningful changes to the educational preparation and instruction of athletic trainers. Some of these include:

•        Defined educational standards consistent with other allied health professions and validated via national accreditation standards (2004).

•        Elimination of the internship route to certification in 2004.

•        Well delineated national educational and skill competency requirements validating the proposed scope of athletic training practice included in the proposed legislation.

•        Since 2001, athletic trainers have been able to apply their athletic training skills to populations beyond sports teams through expanded practice settings, including physician's offices, hospitals, and industrial settings.

- Licensure for athletic trainers is needed in Pennsylvania in order to best protect the public.

*** This will greatly improve the ability of many athletic training students from your district to establish careers here in PA as opposed to looking for jobs in other states.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and I urge you and the rest of the committee to bring this to the members of the senate.

Your Name, ATC
employer
Your County Resident