Saturday, January 28, 2012

Dog's Nose Changes Color


Pigmentation in a dog’s nose is determined by genetic factors, just the same as hair color. Depending on the breed, the dog’s nose may be black, pink, liver colored, or self colored (same color as coat). But, what does it mean if your dog’s nose changes color? If your dog’s nose is turning pink, specifically turning from black to pink, there could be many causes for the loss of pigmentation. Sometimes the change indicates a medical condition, and other times, a dog nose turning pink is a completely natural part of aging.

The most common cause of a fading nose is called “snow nose” or “winter nose,” because the dog’s nose will fade to pink or white during the winter months, and return to black once summer arrives. Labrador RetrieversGolden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain dogs, and Siberian Huskies have this seasonal variation in the color of the nasal planum. Some dogs within these breeds, and even dogs of other breeds, have noses that change from black to brown or pink as the animal ages. The cause is thought to be a breakdown of a certain enzyme called tyrosinase, which is responsible for producing pigment. Apparently, the enzyme becomes less efficient as the dog ages, causing the nose to fade from black to brown or pink. Tyrosinase is also temperature sensitive; it works more effectively in warmer weather, which explains the fading of the nose during winter months. While a dog with a completely pink nose (also known as a Dudley nose), can be disqualified from the show ring (depends on breed), dogs with originally black noses that fade to pink are still allowed to be shown.

Physical ailments and medical conditions may also cause a dog’s nose to fade from black to pink. Sometimes, the dog will lose pigment due to an illness or trauma, and then recover the pigment once healed. If your dog’s nose is scraped or suffers abrasion, it will usually turn pink as it heals, then to black once the scabs are gone. Contact dermatitis can also cause loss of pigmentation in the nose. Certain dogs are sensitive to plastics in food dishes, and the continual irritation will cause the nose to turn pink; the lips will also become inflamed. Switching to stainless steel food and water bowls will eliminate the possibility that your dog is suffering from contact dermatitis.

Vitiligo is an immune disease in dogs that will cause a pink nose, but dogs with vitiligo will commonly have white patches or hairs throughout the rest of their bodies. In animals with vitiligo, antibodies are formed against pigment-containing cells that are responsible for nose color. The antibodies destroy these cells, resulting in loss of color. A veterinarian can do a biopsy to confirm this diagnosis. Certain breeds are at greater risk for this disease, such as Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dachshunds. While the dog’s health is not adversely affected by this disease, nutritional supplements may help to restore the dog’s pigment.

If you have a dog with a pink nose, make sure that you protect him in the summer by applying sunscreen to avoid painful sunburn. While a black or brown nose is safe, a pink nose will burn and may blister if the sun damage is severe. Pink noses are accordingly more at risk for the development of cancer. In some cases, an owner can choose to have his dog’s nose tattooed with black ink to protect it from the sun. This practice is more common in dogs such as the Collie who will get nasty ulcerations from sun exposure.

Though the dog’s nose is one of his most important features, knowledge is lacking as to the reasons for color change, loss of pigment, and why some dog’s noses fade while others do not. If your dog’s nose is changing color, but he is otherwise happy, healthy, and maintaining a normal activity level, he is probably fine. If his nose is blistering, or seems chapped or dry, consult a veterinarian to see if there is a health reason behind your dog’s changing nose. A dog nose turning pink happens more often than most dog owners realize. Research your breed’s tendencies, seek help for a damaged nose, and make sure to protect your dog’s new pink nose from the sun!

(Article from Professorshouse)

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Responsible Pet Ownership

"Please don't leave me. All I want is to be with you."
 ~ The Abandoned Dogs



Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. However, the benefits of pet ownership come with obligations. Responsible pet ownership includes:
  • Committing to the relationship for the life of the pet(s).
  • Avoiding impulsive decisions about obtaining pet(s), and carefully selecting pet(s) suited to your home and lifestyle.
  • Recognizing that ownership of pet(s) requires an investment of time and money.
  • Keeping only the type and number of pets for which an appropriate and safe environment can be provided, including appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.
  • Ensuring pets are properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and that registration information in associated databases is kept up-to-date
  • Adherence to local ordinances, including licensing and leash requirements.
  • Controlling pet(s') reproduction through managed breeding, containment, or spay/neuter, thereby helping to address animal control and overpopulation problems.
  • Establishing and maintaining a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.
  • Providing preventive (e.g., vaccinations, parasite control) and therapeutic health care for the life of pet(s) in consultation with, and as recommended by, its veterinarian.
  • Socialization and appropriate training for pet(s), which facilitates their well-being and the well-being of other animals and people.
  • Preventing pet(s) from negatively impacting other people, animals and the environment, including proper waste disposal, noise control, and not allowing pet(s) to stray or become feral.
  • Providing exercise and mental stimulation appropriate to the pet(s') age, breed and health status.
  • Advance preparation to ensure the pet(s') well-being in the case of an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.
  • Making alternative arrangements if caring for the pet is no longer possible.
  • Recognizing declines in the pet(s') quality of life and making decisions in consultation with a veterinarian regarding appropriate end-of-life care (e.g., palliative care, hospice, euthanasia).
(Article from PetMD)

Sunday, February 20, 2011

The Importances of Grooming


Perhaps you might ask, why do pets need grooming? It is not a trend. Grooming is more than just having your pet to look good or feel good; it is integral part of dog care. It is vital for his health. It’s more than just a bath; it includes brushing, combing, keeping his teeth and ears clean, clipping nails, and keeping him in top shape.

The importances of grooming includes:

  • Sociability. Clean and well-groomed pets are definitely more enjoyable companions to us. Grooming helps strengthening the relationship between the owner and pet. 
  • Discovering external and internal health problems of your pet. His outward appearance reflects his health. Conditions of his coat and skin can be the signals of his health problems. 
  • Eliminating the spread of dirt and disease. Ungroomed dogs/cats are more likely to be infected by internal and external parasites, which can harbor dangerous diseases that can affect human health. 
  • Presenting a positive public image. Keeping your pet clean and healthy says something about you; it says you are a responsible owner and that you care for your pet. 
Remember, good grooming is essential to good health. Start grooming your pet regularly, it will be beneficial to you and your pet!