Holistic Dog Health Q & A (1)

Controlling Seizures Caused By Distemper

I have a four-year-old Labrador mix that contracted distemper from an old neighbor's puppy. The initial acute period of the disease went by with little problems thanks to homeopathy, but within weeks she was having seizures on a daily basis. After doing a lot of research and talking with my veterinarian, my wife and I are considering putting our dog on Phenobarbital. How does Pheno work and is it safe?

When an animal has distemper, the nervous tissue lining is destroyed due to demyelination. In response to this action, the dog's body tries to counter the issue by using its own immune cells. This causes inflammation of the brain, otherwise referred to as encephalitis. Seizures are a result.

Pheno is actually said to be a quality way that will help suppress your dog's seizures. You should also consider supplementing with a special Chinese herbal formula that will assist in the healing process. In addition, hemp oil, B vitamins, vitamin D, Kelp, extra magnesium, and vitamin C are all healthy supplements for your dog's condition.

In time your dog should stabilize and slowly become weaned off of the Pheno. Most holistic practitioners will still recommend that you continue with the herbal supplements. As with any health issue, supplementation, and drugs, always consult with your veterinarian and be sure to research the advice of a holistic practitioner.

Urination Problem

My dog takes a very long time to urinate. In fact, it has been like this ever since I bought him as a puppy at eight weeks old. Now at age 3, he is still taking forever to pee. Although my dog does not appear to show any discomfort or pain when urinating, is this a problem to be concerned about?

It appears that since your pet has always taken a bit longer than usual to urinate, he is probably healthy and that is just the way he is anatomically built. However, in order to ensure that your dog's kidney functioning is healthy, arrange to have his urine and blood tested by your veterinarian.

Vegetarian Diet For Dogs

I have a six-month-old Chihuahua puppy that I would like to switch to an all-vegetarian diet. Some people say that this type of diet is not healthy for a dog but I would really like to give it a try. Is it a bad idea?

Lately there has been a lot of controversy concerning what pets should be eating, especially when it comes to dogs and cats. The recent pet food recall events have triggered a lot of awareness into the reality of pet food and what is considered healthy today.

There should be nothing wrong with an all-vegetarian diet for your puppy so long as there are additional supplementation guidelines adhered to. While dogs can live a long and healthy life eating this way, you cannot denounce the fact that they are carnivores by genetics. Their ancestors ate meat from the time they were born, into old age, and did just fine. Monitor your puppy's health and growth, and be sure to add omega-3 oils and a vitamin/mineral tablet.