3 Natural Treatments For Feline Acne

Feline Acne is a condition that can be found in cats of any age (or breed), but is most commonly found in older cats. It is almost always found on the chin and lower lip, where the hair follicles become clogged.  Food and chemicals sensitivities, hyperactive sebaceous glands, stress, poor grooming habits or a compromised immune system can be contributing factors.  If your kitty has bumps on the chin or lip, it is important to seek out the advice of your veterinarian to rule out other causes such as yeast or ringworm and also because the area can become infected.

3 Holistic Tips For Feline Acne:

1. Disinfect the area daily with topical treatments that can be obtained from your veterinarian.
2. Change your cat's diet to a hypoallergenic, grain-free diet to help reduce inflammation.  Avoid dry food as it is high in starchy carbohydrates.
3. Support your cat’s immune system with supplements. Using the Immune Support Kit and Power Probiotic for Pets can help.

Immune Support Kit

Power Probiotic for Pets

How To Get Rid Of Tear Stains in Dogs

Many light-colored dogs develop tear stains under the eye. Breeds such as Maltese, Poodles and Chihuahuas may have their beautiful faces discolored with unsightly dark stains below the eyes. Even large pets such as yellow Labradors may have dark brown stains under the eyes. Tear stains are not just cosmetic and may be a health concern that you need to address.

First, be sure to check with your veterinarian! Some dogs have a genetic predisposition and could be born with an abnormality in tear ducts or have developed blocked tear ducts. Sometimes a dog could have an eye infection unbeknownst to you.  Be sure there isn't some type of structural defect, infection or inflammation. If your veterinarian rules out these conditions, then the next step is to address the problem from a natural standpoint:  change to a hypoallergenic, low carb diet and add a few supplements to enhance your pet's skin and coat and eliminate the unsightly tear stains.

Many times pets have excessive tear staining due to allergies (food & environmental) or a yeast overgrowth. Usually tear stains are not the only sign.  Pet with tear stains may have other conditions such as: bad breath, gas, tummy gurgling, loose stools, vomiting and other skin issues (itchy, coat issues, hotspots...). These are all signs of poor digestion and a problem with the pet's food. Using Power Probiotic for Pets and Soothing Digestives for Pets can help with digestive issues. However, a diet change is often necessary.

The best natural remedies for tear stain elimination are:
 

Power Probiotic for Pets- The best probiotic for pets!  Backed by scientific research, this powerful multi-strain formula promotes the growth of "friendly" bacteria which are essential to a healthy immune system.  Most pets love the taste too! 

Silver Immune for Pets- The Germinator!  Silver Immune is an all-natural, easy to use remedy that has anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-infection properties.  Can use topically to help clean the skin.
 

Not Drops  - Natural homeopathic formula that fights infection, doggie odor and ear infections.   Gentle, easy to administer and safe for long-term use.

K-9 Yeast Defense - When pets take antibiotics or steroids, it kills off the friendly bacteria as well as the bad bacteria.  This creates an environment for yeast to overgrow.  Brown tear stains that have an odor are often a sign of yeast.  To help fight yeast, it's important to feed a low carbohydrate, hypoallergenic diet and use K9 Yeast Defense.  K9 Yeast Defense contains natural anti-fungal ingredients such as caprylic acid, Pau d'arco and oregano that kill off yeast and help rebalance the intestinal tract.  Using the K9 Yeast Defense along with the Power Probiotic kills off the yeast overgrowth while the Power Probiotic replenishes with healthy, friendly bacteria.

Since diet is a such a key component with tear stains, please be sure to include your pet's current diet on the AskAriel.com order form at checkout.  Our nutritionist will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your product directions.

Natural Remedies For Demodex Mange

Demodectic Mange, also known as "demodex" is a parasitic skin disease caused by microscopic mites.  All dogs have a few of these mites on their skin.  However, when dogs have a compromised or immature immune system, the mites can take over and increase more rapidly.  Demodectic mange is most commonly found in young pups under two years of age, but adult dogs (especially those that have been through physical or emotional stress) can develop it too.  

Demodectic mange can be itchy but characteristically causes patches of hair loss first starting on the head and then in more aggressive cases, throughout the body. Treatment for mange can involve topical medication, shampoos, dips, oral medication and antibiotics in the case of secondary infections. While the mange may clear up and respond to the treatment, pet owners should be proactive about taking steps to support their pet's immune system as  the pet may continue to have flareups or other immune-related health conditions long-term.  

Holistic care is a crucial part of treating Demodectic mange for the long term health of your pet.  Feeding a hypoallegenic, anti-inflammatory diet along with a few supplements can help the pet get back on track and reduce the likelihood of a flare up. 

Supplements helpful for Demodectic Mange include:

• Amazing Omegas - Absolutely the best fish oil available for pets.  Packed in glass bottles to prevent leakage of toxins from plastic into the oil.  Purified for heavy metals and toxins.  Manufactured gently so that oils are in bioavailable form, increasing absorption.  Amazing Omegas gives cats and dogs a beautiful lustrous coat and helps promote hair regrowth.
• Power Probiotic - Power Probiotic is the best probiotic for pets!  Backed by scientific research, this powerful, multi-strain formula promotes the growth of  good, friendly bacteria which boosts your pet's immune system.  Because it fights infection and yeast, Power Probiotic is essential if your pet has taken antibiotics.  Pure and natural, Power Probiotic does not contain any fillers.  It is especially helpful for pets with digestive problems, urinary tract infections, autoimmune disease, skin problems, yeast and allergies.  Many pets love the taste of the Power Probiotic!
• Immune Harmony - Immune Harmony contains a unique patented sterol formula for immune support, a powerful antioxidant formula which protects the body from free radical damage and an essential fatty acid complex to help with bioavailability of the nutrients.  Immune Harmony helps to rebalance the immune system and can be used with prednisone and/or antibiotics.  This formula is helpful for autoimmune conditions and pets with long-term immune system issues such as demodectic mange and cancer.
  
• NotaSAN and QuentaSAN -  Two powerful immune support formulas that boost immunity, fight infection and support healthy skin.  Use together for best results.   
• Silver Immune - The Germinator! This easy-to-use gentle formula is a powerful infection fighter and can be used orally and topically.  
  Just watch as this miracle formula helps to heal the skin.

Feeding a raw food diet can also be beneficial as the fresh nutrients provide enzymes, antioxidants and highly digestible food that support a healthy immune system.

How To Get Rid Of Cat Dandruff

                                                                                                                    

When a cat's fur is dotted with little white flakes, it could be dandruff. Dandruff may seem like a harmless condition but may be a symptom of a medical condition or skin allergy. 

Along with the white flakes, you may notice that your cat is scratching more (especially around the ears) and the skin in the affected area is red an inflamed. The inflammation is an immune system response and the dandruff can be one of many symptoms. Some of the most common causes of cat dandruff are allergies, poor diet lacking essential omega 3 fatty acids, diabetes, hormonal deficiencies, and poor grooming (often occurs in older cats).   It is important to see your veterinarian to determine the cause of your pet’s dandruff, as some conditions will require medical treatment.

Natural Remedies For Cat Dandruff

• Amazing Omegas is a researched-backed, concentrated, therapeutic fish oil providing a powerhouse of Omega 3s in just a few drops.  These omega 3s can give your cat a lustrous, beautiful coat and help eliminate dandruff. 

• Power Probiotic- essential for your pet's good health. Supports digestion, helps fight infection and enhances overall immunity.  A healthy GI tract ( proper balance of good and bad bacteria) allows your cat to more effectively absorb vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which help your cat have a healthier skin and coat. Very important if your cat has taken any antibiotics and steroids.

• NotaSAN Drops Natural homeopathic formula that fights infections and is very helpful for improving allergy symptoms, scratching and itching. Can be used safely long-term to prevent recurrences. 

• ProAller   is especially helpful for environmental allergies.  Controls allergies, reduces itching and when combined with NotaSAN Drops, can reduce odor and red spots.

How To Choose A Dandruff-Free Diet 

Cats with dandruff and allergies can benefit from a hypoallergenic, low carbohydrate diet.  Best options are to eliminate dry food (high in starchy carbohydrates) and choose a raw frozen or freeze dried raw novel protein diet in combination with some canned. Some proteins such as poultry are an allergen for many cats so avoiding common food allergens is very helpful. 

Ask Ariel Pet Nutritionist will include a free diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your products.  Include your cat's diet on the order form at checkout along with any other health conditions your kitty may have. 

Questions?  Please email us at support@askariel.com

Free Diet Advice For Your Cat or Dog

In the age of automation, AskAriel.com stands out. Not only do we process your order promptly, but we do it the old fashioned way with a personal touch! We review every order and include a special note with diet tips custom tailored to your pet's condition. (Please note we cannot provide veterinary advice!). We care about your pet and want you to get the very best results when you use our products. We firmly believe that to help your pet feel better, diet changes are an integral part of the healing process. Healthy Diet + All Natural Supplements = Healthy Pet

If you have a pet and need advice about which supplements help a particular health condition, please email us at support@askariel.com  Please know we cannot provide veterinary advice but we can direct you to articles on our website and will include a free diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your order.

Diet and Supplements Help Vomiting Rescue Kitty

Benny

"Benny IS a beautiful boy! Not just on the outside, but also on the inside with a gentle and giving soul. I first met him at the St. Paul Animal Humane Society. His human mom had passed away and her husband didn't understand why Benny was so loud and cried so much, so he gave Benny up.  He was sleeping when I first saw him and I stroked his chin. In his sleep, he reached out his paw, touched my hand and melted my heart. I may have saved him (that day), but really, he SAVED me…Truly!

His diet consisted of only dried kibble at the Humane Society. I slowly weaned him to wet food (chicken) after bringing him home, but after a few weeks he began to throw everything up, even chicken broth... it was scary! However, after eight months, I am so excited to say that with your helpful diet suggestions and the Ask Ariel products, Benny is in fine health. I am a very very grateful furr-mom! The two mainstays of Benny's supplemental regime are the Power Probiotics for Pets and the Soothing Digestive Relief for Pets. The Notatum drops were very helpful recently too, when his poopies became diarrhea-like.  I can't tell you how much less anxious I am knowing that I have the means to help him when he needs it. For a 14+ year old, he's living a very good life and I couldn't do it without you all at Ask Ariel!

Thank You"  Geri, Minnesota

IBD KIT

What To Do When Your Pet Doesn't Want to Eat

Your pet is not eating and you don't know why?  Some pets have food preferences just like we do and some pets can be especially finicky.  However, it is important to determine if the issue is a behavior problem (being finicky) or a medical issue. Inappetence can be a serious sign.  If your pet is not eating, it often is because your pet isn’t feeling well.  Watching your pet closely can tell you a lot about the underlying cause of why your pet does not want to eat.  

Some important points to observe:

• Is it a certain time of day?  Perhaps mornings?
• Is it certain foods?
• Is it environmental?
• Other pets/people around?  
• Location of feeding bowls? (some cats prefer high spots)

Be sure to take your pet to your veterinarian if you notice any signs of inappetance. Causes of inappetance can range from kidney or liver disease to gastrointestinal conditions such as pancreatitis.   The longer you wait to take them to the vet, the longer your pet may feel uncomfortable. 

After your vet determines the cause of your pet's inappetance, a change in diet (depending upon the reason) along with a few supplements can make a world of difference.   The following supplements are helpful for inappetance:

Gastro ULC  Gastro ULC For Pets is a natural remedy for cats and dogs with acid stomach, reflux and vomiting

Soothing Digestive Relief -- Enzyme formula that soothes the stomach, relieves gas, indigestion and tummy rumbling.

Power Probiotic -  The Best probiotic for dogs and cats.  Power Probiotic is pure, natural and contains no fillers. 

In Memory Of A Precious Wheaten Terrier

In Memory of A Special Friend and Client of Ask Ariel:

 

"Our dear, sweet wheaten terrier Biscuit crossed over the rainbow bridge on Friday August 18, 2017.  Biscuit was only supposed to be a visitor but she captured our hearts for all of the years she was with us.  I have a wheaten terrier Murphy and my friend fell in love with my dog and decided to get a dog of the same breed.  Although she checked with her landlord before bringing the dog home, he ultimately said that she could not keep the dog.  She asked if I would "babysit" until she found another place and then that babysitting assignment turned into a 12 year love affair.  

Biscuit was a lover and we teasingly called her "mama bear" because all she wanted to do was mother any little dog that she came across.  It was a shame that she never had pups of her own but she transferred that love to any human or animal that she met.  We will miss our beautiful girl but so thankful for the love and sweetness that she graced us with while she was on this earth."  Lynette, California

When You Must Call Your Vet

The past two weeks we have received quite a few emails from concerned pet owners who are on vacation and their pet is displaying some type of unusual symptom that concerns them. While we are happy to help, our response is always the same "Please contact your vet right away".  While we all wish someone could quickly tell us over the phone or via email what's wrong with our pet and not to worry.....unfortunately it doesn't work that way.

Some of the concerns expressed: vomiting, hot spots, limping, diarrhea, urinating more frequently, etc. Unfortunately these things can come up at some of the most inconvenient times and it creates a lot of stress for you and your pet. It's hard to stop what you are doing (e.g. may have a fun activity planned) but at the very least, call your vet! Your vet will tell you if this is something serious where your pet needs to be seen right away or perhaps it can wait until you get back. If it is after hours, call an emergency clinic. But make the call. Yes it can cost money, mess up plans and create extra stress. But not calling can have dire consequences and leave you with regret and guilt. There is no cost to making the call and then once you have the facts, you can figure out the next best step. When in doubt, knowledge is power! 

Natural Remedies For Dogs and Cats With Pancreatitis

VETERINARY-APPROVED   CLINICALLY PROVEN TO WORK 

The Pancreatitis and Liver Support Kit  is an all- natural, holistic treatment that is excellent for cats and dogs who have had pancreatitis.  It includes three formulas: Power Probiotic, Lypozyme and Liver & Gallbladder Support Formula.  The three formulas are powerful, individual formulas and can be purchased separately but for best results, we recommend using the three formulas together.

Dogs and cats feel better quickly using these three clinically-proven herbal and enzyme formulas. These all-natural supplements are gentle but effective in supporting the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and intestinal tract. The enzymes and probiotics are at a therapeutic level making them highly effective in breaking down food, easing the burden on the pancreas and digestive tract. The Pancreatitis Kit is excellent for dogs and cats with the following conditions:
*Pancreatitis
*Canine Cushings Disease
*Difficulty digesting fats (indigestion)
*Breeds prone to pancreatitis such as Schnauzers, Poodles and Cocker Spaniels
*Gallbladder problems
*Elevated Liver Enzymes
*Diabetes
*Senior cats and dogs

The formulas are all capsules that can be opened and the powders inside can be sprinkled on food.

Please include your pet's diet and diagnoses on the order form at checkout.  We will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your order.

Human Treats Can Make Pets Sick- Just Say No!

Would you give a child a puff of a cigarette if he asked? What about giving a toddler alcohol because she grabbed your glass? Of course not! So why would you give your pet ice cream, cookies, coffee drinks, corn on the cob etc.? We all want to spoil our pets and it's very hard to resist those begging eyes. But human treats are not good for them even if in tiny amounts. For ex: most yorkies have sensitive digestion and some may only weigh 3 to 4 pounds. A teaspoon of ice cream could cause pancreatitis and worse. As much as we want to humanize our pets, their digestive tracts and immune systems are very different than ours. Sugar weakens their immune system making them more susceptible to allergies, skin problems, ear infections, UTIs, diabetes and cancer. You can still lavish love on your pets by having lots of healthy pet goodies available such as Stella and Chewys or Instinct Pet Food  freeze dried treats. It's hard but please think of your pet's health first.

How To Help A Cat With a Tummy Ache

Does your kitty have occasional bouts of vomiting, indigestion or diarrhea? Long term bowel inflammation can lead to IBD and intestinal lymphoma. What many cat owners don't realize is that there are some very common culprits in their kitty's food and treats. If your cat has a sensitive stomach, it's best to avoid poultry and fish as these are big allergens. Dry cat food is loaded with hard to digest carbohydrates and even grain-free dry kibble is problematic. What seems to work best is a combination of raw frozen, freeze dried and canned using a novel protein source. Also using a few tummy soothers such as Soothing Digestive Relief and Power Probiotic can really help too.  Finicky cats may resist change and can be very challenging but with patience, they will come around. Giving them unhealthy food they like may seem easier but it worsens inflammation and just perpetuates the problem. Take it slow with small changes and over time, your cat will feel so much better!

Rescue Dog Rodney Comforts Many As A Pet Therapy Dog

Meet Rodney--Rodney is a pet therapy dog who provides joy and comfort to many.  He is a gentle, cuddly Old English Sheepdog who is approx. 8 to 9 years old.  Rodney's journey from a rescue dog to a pet therapy dog is an amazing tale.  Rodney was found wandering the streets of Taiwan (from a puppy mill), saved by rescuers and then shipped to California to find his forever home and purpose. He now dedicates his life to helping others as a therapy dog.

What is a therapy dog? A therapy dog is one that is trained to provide affection, comfort and emotional support to adults and children in a variety of settings which include: hospitals, nursing homes, schools, hospices, and disaster areas. They are not to be confused with service animals that are trained to perform a specific task for a person with a disability. You may see a therapy dog sitting with a child learning to read, brightening the day of the elderly, visiting patients at hospitals or offering comfort to those suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a disaster or horrific experience.

Rodney underwent special training at the Betty White Foundation Actors and Friends of Animals and has been on staff at West Hills Hospital as a pet therapy dog for many years. Rodney enters the front doors of the hospital and hears his name called by doctors, nurses, and staff members. Rodney, a celebrity in his own right, travels throughout the hospital providing love and joy to all.

Here is just one example which illustrates the comfort a pet therapy dog can provide.  For several weeks, Rodney had visited the same room of a young man who had suffered a massive heart attack.  The young man had breathing and feeding tubes keeping him alive while his anguished grandmother sat with him, holding his hand.  Each week Rodney would come for a visit sitting with them hoping in some way that his presence might relieve some of their pain.   When the final day came and the young man passed away peacefully, Rodney was there with his head in the grandmother’s lap as she gently stroked his head.  Having Rodney there made a very sad and difficult situation just a little bit easier.  Pet therapy dogs can make an amazing difference in the lives of those who are suffering.

Warning: Rat Poison is Deadly For Pets

With the summer weather, pets are spending more time outside. Beware! Many residences are using rat poison. Even if you don't use rat poison, rats can transport it into your yard. Moreover, when bringing pets to friends homes, take a moment to ask or survey the yard. Ingesting rat poison can happen so quickly without you being aware especially when you are distracted. 

When Legend was a young pup, I brought him with me to visit my Mom. The residence had a huge yard and he loved to run around. For about two minutes, I spoke with my Mom's doctor and Legend was out of my view. As we were leaving I noticed he was chewing and I saw a tiny speck of bright blue on his tooth. They said they did not use rat poison and there was none in their yard (I later found out that their neighbor did and there was a hole in the fence.) I took him to the emergency as a precaution and sure enough he had ingested a lethal dose. If caught early, it's treatable and cureable. If you notice any signs of vomiting, lethargy, drooling or blood in vomit or stool, please don't wait to call the vet, go to an emergency clinic.

Have a question about your pet? Email us at support@askariel.com

Want to Pick Up Less Dog Poop?

Want to reduce the amount of daily poop to clean up? Feed your pet a raw frozen diet. Pets digest the REAL food found in a raw diet and have much smaller poops. Brands such as Stella & Chewys, Primal and Instinct offer balanced nutrition containing real meat, vegetables and omega oils. This is more natural for a cat or dog to eat so there is less poop! Pets that eat kibble have much more stool as kibble is made with carbohydrates, much of which remains undigested.  This is especially true of reduced calorie pet diets that aim to temporarily reduce your pet's hunger by adding questionable ingredients such as peanut hulls.  Instead, feed your overweight pet a high protein diet to stabilize blood sugar and reduce hunger pangs.  Basically, feeding your dog high carb kibble diets is literally throwing your money and your pet's health down the drain.    Click here to learn more about the benefits of a raw frozen diet


Have a question about how to help your pet using natural holistic pet care?  Email us at support@askariel.com We will be happy to help.  

Enzymes For Small Dogs and Cats With Pancreatitis

Yorkies, Schnauzers, Miniature Schnauzers and other small breed dogs are prone to pancreatitis. Lypozyme for Pets  is a gentle, tasteless, easy to use enzyme formula that helps pets digest protein and fats. Essential for Feline Pancreatitis, Dogs with Pancreatitis, Feline Hepatic Lipidosis, Diabetic Pets, Cats and Dogs with Liver Disease. Just sprinkle Lypozyme on your cat or dog's food every time your pet eats. Can also be mixed with water in a syringe if that is easier. This is the best enzyme formula for treating and preventing pancreatitis in cats and dogs. The enzymes help your pet digest the fat and protein, taking the workload off of your pet's pancreas.

To learn more about Lypozyme for Pets, please click here

What To Feed Your Cat

Cats are carnivores yet many pet owners continue to feed them foods which have very little nutritional value and often contribute to their health issues. All dry kibble is made with carbohydrates which break down into sugar, weakening a cat's immunity. Can you imagine,  for example, a lion preferring a box of cereal over raw meat? Most cat treats have sugars and carbs added in when what cats really crave is simple proteins made from real food.

Next time you visit the pet store, please take a look at your cat's food label. Look for meat, poultry and fish and avoid the carbohydrates. Raw frozen diets, freeze dried diets (if your kitty won't eat raw) and some premium canned are your best options.

Natural Remedies for Mast Cell Tumors Help Rescued Pit Bull

Luna

"We rescued Luna, a mini pitty, from the streets of Brooklyn in September 2013. She was approximately three years old and Luna actually ran into my arms. It was obvious she had been out on the street for a while. Our house sits on Brooklyn’s Highland Park on a dead-end and cruel people abandon their animals here all the time. Over the 10 years of living here, we have grown a network of caring animal rescue organizations and people who are always ready to respond when a critter is left on our stoop or tied to a tree in the park.

Luna was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor in July 2015, and surgery was done in early August 2015. I reached out to Ask Ariel for recommended supplements, and Luna was placed on several at the time, but is now down to just two- Immune Harmony and the Resveratrol for Dogs. Thank God, she has been healthy with no recurrence.

Luna now lives a happy life with her stepsisters Sadie, and Kat, as well as stepbrothers, Wayne, and Cisco. We even recently rescued 2 chickens from the parkway who live harmoniously with all the other critters and give us our daily eggs!

As our pack grew, my spouse was moved to get certified and become a professional dog trainer. He founded Brooklyn's Finest Dog Training in 2014. Because of our up close and personal experience he has chosen to specialize in rescued dogs, especially those with issues."

Laura L.- New York 2017

Elderly Chesapeake Retriever Mo Returns Home after Surviving 9 Months in the Idaho Wilderness

Darwin and Cindy Cameron were on a hunting trip in September when their dog Mo, a 13 year old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, managed to get loose and disappear. They searched for four weeks day and night to no avail.

Their posting on Facebook yielded some sightings, but Mo, being a bit skittish could never be caught.  As the fall turned to winter the Cameron’s hopes began to fade.  They never stopped thinking about Mo and trying to find her.

In the middle of June 2017, a rancher found a dog that collapsed on his ranch.  The dog was flea invested and skin and bones.  He dropped her off at the Chesapeake Rescue.  Luckily, Cheri Glankler with the Rescue remembered the story of Mo and contacted the Camerons to be reunited. After being lost for 288 days in the Idaho wilderness, Mo was finally home.

For the complete story: http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article160290474.html

Safety Tips For Hiking With Your Dog

Posted: 4/6/2024

One of the best summer activities is hiking with your dog.  As an avid hiker, it's important to consider in advance, your dog’s ability, health and age.  Hikes at higher altitude can present issues for some dogs and excessive heat combined with a steep hike can lead to heat stroke.  Depending upon the circumstances, even a young dog can develop heat stroke.

Here are some more tips to help ensure you have a  fun and safe hike:

• Pack a doggie bag: include a leash, poo bags, first aid kit, vet information, a picture (in case the pet gets lost and plenty of food and water (with a collapsible bowl). Always bring treats along for your dog even if it is just a one hour hike.  A dog's blood sugar can drop with excessive exercise and giving them a snack at the halfway point is recommended.

• Check the ground material--hot asphalt can burn through paw pads and foxtails can be a problem too.  Booties may be a little awkard at first, but dogs do get used to them and they can come in handy, especially in hot desert areas.

• Keep your dog hydrated: A dog’s temperature rises faster than a person and adequate hydration is critical. You should consider avoiding the hottest part of the day and make sure you have plenty of fresh water with you.  Do NOT allow your dog to drink from streams or ponds as they may contain giardia and bacteria which can make your pet sick.

• Keep your dog in sight: there are many potential dangers in the outdoors and the best way to protect your pet is by knowing your environment and to keep a watchful eye.  Do not let them chew plants (especially wild mushrooms) and watch for other wildlife such as rattlesnakes that could attack/bite your pet. If an attack occurs or you believe your dog ingested something poisonous, seek immediate medical attention.  Time is of the essence when it comes to a rattlesnake bite.

• Watch out for other dogs:  just because your dog is friendly doesn't mean everyone else's dog is.  You may be walking in an area where locals frequent regularly with their dog's offleash.  As tempting as it is to let you dog run wild, it is highly recommended to keep your dog on an extended leash instead.

• Check your dog during the hike: look for wounds, paw cuts/cracks, and ticks on your dog during your hike.  If a tick is found, remove it immediately to avoid exposure to Lyme disease.  Lyme disease is a tick borne infectious disease causing tiredness, fever, joint pain and loss of appetite and can be contracted within hours.  

• Keep your dog cool after the hike: even young dogs can develop heat exhaustion quickly.  Too much hiking in one day with high altitude can cause them to become extremely fatigued.  Contact an emergency vet if you notice your dog has suddenly become lethargic, drooling, red gums, excessive panting.  Hyperthermia is common and can become an emergency.

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

Revised and Reposted:  4/6/2024

Original Post:  7/15/2017