Sources of Anxiety In Dogs

Just like us, many dogs suffer from anxiety. Sources of fear-based anxiety in dogs can be from loud noises, like sirens, thunderstorms or fireworks. Triggers for social and environmental anxiety in dogs include unfamiliar people or dogs, riding in cars, going to new places, or other changes in normal routine. Dogs experience separation anxiety when left alone, or separated from their favorite people or other pets.

ThunderShirt Dog Anxiety Vest

When it comes to calming aids for anxious dogs, the first I ever purchased was a ThunderShirt dog anxiety vest. Just like swaddling an infant provides a feeling of safety and security, the ThunderShirt creates a constant, gentle pressure to soothe your anxious dog.

My dog Skip was terrified of thunderstorms. I was hopeful the ThunderShirt would be a miracle. It has a money back guarantee. I had nothing to lose!

ThunderShirt For Dogs

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Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

Let me temper your expectations. It’s not as if Skip was no longer scared of storms or oblivious to thunder. But the ThunderShirt took just enough edge off. He no longer climbed all over me and I was no longer scared he’d literally drop dead from fright. That was a win in my book and I kept it.

I have a ThunderShirt Classic in heather grey – it was the only style available at that time. It’s well made and has held up for years though many uses and machine washes. Olive now uses it regularly during summer thunderstorms. You can also purchase a ThunderShirt Sport or ThunderShirt Polo, each available in multiple colors. All ThunderShirts are available in seven sizes from XXS – XXL.

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Composure Calming Chews by VetriScience

There are a lot supplemental calming aids for anxious dogs on the market. To be honest, I always though of them as snake oil. I first learned of Composure by VetriScience from a friend. It was not long after adopting Ruby and she was a nervous wreck.

I had my veterinarian review the ingredients for safety and then I gave them a try. After all, VetriScience also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Composure is now a staple I keep on hand at all times.

Amazon

I watch the girls when I’m gone with my Blink camera system (read all about it here). Before using Composure, Ruby was agitated the entire time I was gone. She’d get on the sofa, then off the sofa, go in the cove, then out of the cove, walk around the room, back to the sofa, then back to the cove…the WHOLE TIME.

After using Composure, she’s settled when I am gone. From reviewing the camera footage, I see she usually sticks close to Lemon and settles in next to her. I’ve seen Ruby stay in one place for over an hour, which was unheard of before. I’ve also seen her play with her toys and play with Olive. It doesn’t knock her out and she maintains her same personality.

I also rely on Composure during thunderstorms or seasonal holidays with fireworks. Like the ThunderShirt, Composure does not completely eliminate anxious or fearful behavior, but it takes the edge off just enough. You can safely double or triple your dose in times of exceptional stress.

It’s helpful to give Composure ahead of time when possible, as many dogs are more difficult to calm once they are already highly agitated. Composure works quickly and lasts for up to 4 hours.

Be Prepared

The 4th of July will be here before you know it. If your dog gets nervous or scared during fireworks, go ahead and pick up one or both of these calming aids for anxious dogs. You’ll then have several weeks to get your dog used to wearing the ThunderShirt or testing the dosage of Composure that suits them best.

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Why Dogs Eat too Fast

If your dog is suddenly ravenous or eating too fast when they previously did not, it’s time for a conversation with your veterinarian. Changes in appetite or eating behaviors can be an indication of a medical problem, like a metabolic condition, parasites, or other infection. For the purpose of this post, I’m assuming you have already ruled out a medical condition.

Competition for resources is another reason dogs eat too fast. Your dog may have come from a large litter where they competed against siblings to nurse. Dogs with history as a stray may not have known when their next meal would come. If your dog is or was part of a pack not properly managed while feeding, they may eat quickly to ensure others won’t take their food. It’s important to manage pack feeding to alleviate competition for food.

Some dogs just love to eat! I can relate.

Why It’s Dangerous If Your Dog Eats Too Fast

Choking is a big risk when dogs eat too fast. Gulping down a meal, your dog won’t chew properly. This can lead to food getting stuck in their throat and blocking their airway. This medical emergency is frightening for both you and your dog. Read What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking to learn more.

Dogs eating too fast may regurgitate their food. Regurgitated food can be inhaled into their airway, which may result in pneumonia.

When dogs eat too fast, they are at increased risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus, or GDV, more commonly referred to as Bloat. Bloat is a condition where your dog’s stomach fills with gas, fluid, or food, and becomes twisted. It progresses extremely fast and it is fatal if not treated. Read more about the signs, treatment, and outcomes of Bloat here. If you suspect your dog has Bloat, seek medical attention immediately.

slow feed options for Dogs Eating Too Fast

There are lots of slow feed options for dogs eating too fast. Something to keep in mind is that one solution does not fit all. You may need to try several options to find the right solution for your dog.

Another tip is to find more than one slow feed solution for your dog and then rotate them. Even challenging solutions can become less effective when used routinely. Be sure to change it up on them!

Slow Feed Bowls

When looking for slow feed options for dogs eating too fast, consider their bowl. Obstacles in the bowl will force your dog to slow down while eating.

DuraPet Premium Stainless Steel Slow Feed Bowl

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Amazon

I purchased a DuraPet Premium Stainless Steel Slow Feed Bowl years ago. It has a raised hump in the middle which your dog has to eat around. There’s a permanently bonded non-skid bottom and it is dishwasher safe. It’s a high quality bowl. With regular use, mine remains looking like new. However, it is not the most challenging of slow feed options for dogs. It was perfect for one of my dogs at the time, but not the other.

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl

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Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

The Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is a best seller for this brand with over 1 million bowls sold. The reviews on both Amazon and Chewy speak for themselves. What I like about this bowl is the variety! The Fun Feeder is available in multiple sizes, colors, and maze styles. It can also be used with wet, dry, or raw food diets. It is made of food safe plastic (BPA, PVC, and phthalate free) with a non-slip base, and is top rack dishwasher safe.

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LE TAUCI Ceramic Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

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Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

If you prefer a ceramic bowl, try the LE TAUCI Ceramic Slow Feeder Dog Bowl. It also comes in multiple sizes, colors, and maze styles, suitable for varied diets. It is dishwasher safe, and as an option, you can purchase this bowl with an oak stand.

Think outside the Bowl

Sometimes the best slow feed option for dogs is something you might already have on hand. Remember how I said the DuraPet Premium Stainless Steel Slow Feed Bowl didn’t work great for one of my speed eaters? If I’m honest, none of the slow feed bowls I tried with Ginger worked for her. She quickly learn to flip any bowl that presented her with a challenge.

The ultimate solution for her obstinance was a large stainless steel baking sheet like the one below. The raised edge kept her food mostly contained, and the open flat space allowed the food to spread out, preventing her from gulping.

Amazon

Snuffle Mats

For portions of dry kibble, using a snuffle mat provides an enrichment activity that ultimately slows your dog’s consumption. Using their sniffer as a guide, your dog will have to forage the snuffle mat to find their food.

While there are oodles of cute snuffle mat options on Amazon, I’m partial to the ones that are machine washable. No busy dog mom has time to hand wash a snuffle mat! These tend to be the simpler designs, however, the simple design is really easy to ruffle some dry food into them without a lot of effort. And your dog won’t care that their snuffle mat doesn’t look like a flower or a taco!

Snuffle Mat Favorites

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Amazon

LAMTWEK snuffle Mat

I like the large 17″ x 21″ size of this mat, as well as the edge guard that prevents the kibble from falling out the sides of the mat. It’s not a deal breaker for me, but don’t count on the suction cups unless you have a very smooth tile floor.

Amazon

PET ARENA Snuffle Mat

This snuffle mat is a great value! It’s adjustable with a drawstring, allowing your dog to use it more like a bowl or flat like a mat. Pull the string tight for compact storage when not in use.

Amazon

LIVEKEY Snuffle Mat

My favorite thing about this snuffle mat is you can connect multiple mats together to get just the size you need!

Puzzle Toys

Puzzle toys are great slow feed options for dogs eating too fast. They’re not just for treats! Make mealtime an enrichment activity by feeding your dog their regular meal from a puzzle toy.

Y’all know how I feel about the West Paw Toppl. And I have a host of healthy recipes for filling your Toppl as a treat. But the Toppl is perfect for meal times too, especially with the recently added XL size. Two Toppls can be interlocked for an extra challenge (S to L, or L to XL).

West Paw’s brain game fun doesn’t stop with the Toppl as they have added the Rumbl to their puzzle toy lineup. Designed to fit a variety of dry treats or kibble, the Rumbl wobbles and rolls to sporadically reward your dog. Available in two sizes, the S fits 1 cup of kibble and the L fits 2 cups.

West Paw Zogoflex Puzzle toys

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Toppl

Amazon

Rumbl

Amazon

Both Toppl and Rumbl are made in the USA from non-toxic, zero-waste, recyclable Zogoflex. They are dishwasher safe, and they are backed by West Paw’s Love It Guarantee.

Take It Slow

Considering the health risks when eating too fast, it’s important to consider these slow feed options for dogs. However, no bowl, snuffle mat, or puzzle toy is indestructible, so it’s a must that you supervise your pup when using these items.

Remember, one solution does not work for every dog. Keep trying – there IS a solution that will work for your dog!

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The Panic Is Real When Your Dog Is Choking

It started like any Monday. I was in bed, trying to return to sleep. My husband was headed out the door to work at 5 am. He gave each of the girls a treat as he does every day. And it happened. Lemon began to choke.

She’d swallowed the cookie whole and it had lodged in her throat just so. I knew something was deadly wrong the second he yelled my name. Thinking I was familiar with what to do when your dog is choking, I did the finger sweep in her mouth. I did it again. There was nothing. I couldn’t reach the cookie.

Lemon’s whole body was beating as her heart raced. Her paws curled toward her mouth, scratching, trying herself to dislodge the offending treat. She cut her gums and blood covered her paws. Frantic, we clapped her back and sides. Though I’d casually read how to do the dog Heimlich Maneuver before, my dog was choking before my eyes, and I found myself unsure of exactly what to do.

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The Heimlich Maneuver For Dogs

Long story short, we had a couple of minutes of sheer, horrifying panic before Lemon choked up the cookie. I knew immediately I needed to not just know of the Heimlich Maneuver for dogs…I needed to get comfortable with executing it.

Check to see if the item can be removed from your dog’s mouth. Using your index finger, sweep the mouth to hook and remove it. Take care not to push the item further into your dog’s throat. Raising your dog’s back legs may allow gravity to move the object forward enough to dislodge it.

If you’re unable to remove the item with a finger sweep, make a fist with one hand and cup it with the other hand. Placing your hands just below your dog’s ribs, execute a rapid thrust five times into the diaphragm with an upward motion. Again, check your dog’s mouth for the item with a finger sweep.

If the item was not dislodged, give five sharp blows on your dog’s back between their shoulder blades. Only once the airway is clear, if you dog is unconscious, begin CPR. You can learn more about pet CPR here.

After a choking incident, always have your dog checked out by your veterinarian to ensure there is no damage or other injury.

Practice Makes Perfect

Practice these motions and placement when your dog is not choking, so you become comfortable with what to do when your dog is choking.

No, I am not saying to actually thrust into your dog’s diaphragm. But make the fist and learn where to place it. Sweep your finger into your dog’s mouth on the regular, so doing so is not an unusual experience for your dog, or for you.

We are very fortunate that Lemon is okay, in spite of our utter panic over what to do to help her. I hope I never need these skills again, but you better believe I’m making sure I not only know what to do, but that I’m comfortable doing it.

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What is Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease impacts your dog the same way it can impact you. Plaque, which becomes tarter, causes inflammation of the gums. Your veterinarian can remove plaque and tarter above the gum line. But left untreated, plaque and tarter below the gum line causes further inflammation and infection. Eventually, it damages teeth and their connective tissues, and even the jawbone itself.

Periodontal disease if a painful condition for your dog. But the impact isn’t limited to the mouth. Periodontal disease causes other health problems in dogs, including kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes.

Brush your dog’s Teeth Daily

Your dog’s dental health is a daily task, meaning you should brush your dog’s teeth every day to avoid the impacts of periodontal disease.

I’m the first to admit, I haven’t been brushing the girls’ teeth every day. I brush them Monday through Friday, and I take a break on the weekends. However, I recently spoke with our veterinarian Dr. Richard Cutler at Cutler Animal Hospital about it. I now have a new resolve to brush their teeth every single day because the science doesn’t lie.

Dr. Cutler explained how studies indicate gram-negative anaerobes return within 40 days of a dental cleaning if you don’t brush your dog’s teeth to keep them at bay. That’s science talk for the bad bacteria associated with periodontal disease.

Let me put this another way. The effort having your dog’s teeth cleaned is wasted time and money if you fail to brush their teeth afterwards. A periodic brushing is just not going to cut it. In order for your dog’s dental health to be its best, daily brushing is the way to go.

Follow Dental cleaning Recommendations

Your veterinarian will check your dog’s teeth and gums for signs of inflammation, gingivitis, and other periodontal disease during their annual wellness visit, grading on a scale of 0 (normal) to 4 (severe). If they advise it’s time to consider a cleaning to maintain your dog’s dental health, you should heed their advice.

There is no hard and fast rule for how often your dog may need a dental cleaning. Factors like size, age, diet, and home dental care practices influence the condition of your dog’s teeth and gums, and thus how often cleaning is necessary. And like people, genetics plays a big role in your dog’s dental health as well. Some dogs are just more genetically inclined than others to develop severe periodontal disease.

The next best preventive action is getting a dental cleaning when recommended by your veterinarian. During February’s National Pet Dental Health Month, many veterinarians offer a discount on cleanings, making it a great time to take the extra steps necessary to protect your dog’s dental health.

Dental cleaning is preventative care, and accident/illness-based pet insurance does not cover preventative care. However, if your pet requires dental illness treatment and you’ve been neglecting to follow your veterinarian’s preventive dental care recommendations, your dental illness claim may be denied.

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Why does a cleaning require anesthesia

A dog’s dental cleaning is much like your own where the teeth are scaled and polished. Unlike you, your dog is not going to sit still, open wide, and patiently cooperate with this often uncomfortable, sometimes painful, experience.

Anesthesia makes it possible for your veterinarian to perform a proper and thorough cleaning. It alleviates added stress and potential pain for your dog. It also alleviates the risk of injury to your dog, or your veterinarian, as your dog will not be moving or flailing around.

Use of anesthesia always comes with risk. But it’s generally safe, and the benefits of the dental cleaning far outweigh the risks of anesthesia. Ask your veterinarian to explain what measures they take to keep your dog safe during anesthesia.

Advanced Veterinary Dentistry

Your dog’s primary veterinarian can handle their basic dental care. This includes an annual check of the teeth and gums, and any recommended cleanings or simple extractions. However, if periodontal disease has been left untreated, your dog may require more extensive dental care than they’re equipped to handle.

In this case, your veterinarian may refer you to a board-certified veterinary dentist. A veterinary dentist can perform dental X-rays to further evaluate the condition of your dog’s jawbone and structures below the gum line. Treatments may involve more complicated extractions, and other oral surgeries or dental repairs.

Like any line of specialty care, a visit to a veterinary dentist is going to carry a heftier price tag. However, in most cases, you can avoid a costly trip to a veterinary dentist by maintaining a home dental care routine for your dog and by following the recommendations of your primary vet when it comes to dental cleanings.

An ounce of prevention

Your dog’s dental health is the epitome of the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

The very best preventive action you can take to protect your dog from progressive periodontal disease is upping the game of your dog’s home dental care routine with daily brushing.

Products for your dog’s dental health

This Jasper 360º Fingerbrush with bristles all the way around is a game changer for brushing my dogs’ teeth!

Amazon

I use Virbac CET Enzymatic Toothpaste in Vanilla Mint flavor. It’s also available in Beef or Poultry flavors.

Amazon

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I’m skeptical of water additives claiming to support your dog’s dental health, but I’ve just purchased dog::ESSENTIAL healthymouthTM to use after the girls have their cleanings next month. It’s the first and only dental water additive to receive the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance for plaque control in dogs. I’ll report back!

**A water additive is a supplement to – not a replacement for – daily brushing.

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Lemonade uses artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and a flat fee profit model. These things allow for comprehensive coverage options at an affordable price, as well as allows Lemonade to give back unused premiums to a nonprofit you’ve selected. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

But Is Lemonade Pet Insurance Any good?

Founded in 2015, and offering renters and homeowners insurance, Lemonade expanded to pet insurance in 2020, followed by term life insurance and car insurance in 2021. A fully licensed and regulated insurance company, Lemonade underwrites, prices, and sells policies, in addition to processing and paying claims. They’re growing, but they aren’t available in every state yet. You can check the status of your state here.

Some of the largest reinsurers in the world, like Swiss Re, Munich Re, and Hannover Re, provide reinsurance for Lemonade. Additionally, Demotech Inc. has given Lemonade a Financial Stability Rating® of A-Exceptional.

Though relatively new to the insurance playing field, Lemonade is definitely legitimate pet insurance you should feel good about.

How Lemonade Pet Insurance Keeps Costs Low

Lemonade has eliminated the traditional insurance agents and brokers in favor of chat bots and machine learning. They sell policies online via their website or mobile app. Insureds manage their policies, get help from their team, and file claims online too. This model provides for fast and efficient claims processing with about 1/3 of Lemonade’s claims being paid in just seconds from being filed. It keeps overhead for the company low, which translates into lower premiums for you, and frees up their human team to manage emergencies and more complex claims.

Some might see all this artificial intelligence as a con, but once I saw the difference in Lemonade’s premiums, it is certainly something I can get over. As a matter of reference, I sent multiple questions to Lemonade regarding their pet insurance coverage while researching this post. Each time, their team provided answers to me in less than 24 hours.

Additionally, Lemonade makes money using a flat fee model, meaning they earn the same flat fee out of your premium as profit, regardless of the outcome of any claims you file. After paying claims and expenses, Lemonade donates the remainder of unused premiums to charities selected by insureds. Lemonade is aPublic Benefit Corporation and a Certified B Corp. In 2021, Lemonade donated $2,303,381 to over 65 nonprofits around the world. How cool is that?! It’s called the Lemonade Giveback and you can read more about it here.

If all of this wasn’t enough to convince you that Lemonade is legitimate pet insurance with affordable premiums, they also offer discounts for insuring multiple pets, or purchasing multiple lines of insurance. And if you pay your premium annually instead of monthly, there’s a discount for that too.

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What Does Lemonade Pet Insurance Cover?

Lemonade Pet Insurance has a number of policy options which impact your coverage, as well as the price you pay for it. Since it can be daunting to determine if a policy will fit your needs, let’s break it down…

A base Policy To Cover Accidents and illness

To begin with, Lemonade Pet Insurance offers a base policy to cover accidents and illness. This is stuff like “cancer, infections, UTIs, diabetes, cuts, broken bones”. For covered accidents or illness, they will reimburse for diagnostics, procedures, and medications necessary for treatment.

Pre-Existing Condition Exclusions

Not different from other pet insurance coverage, Lemonade does not cover pre-existing conditions. I recommend obtaining pet insurance as soon you add a new furry family member, so that their medical record is as free as possible from issues that would be considered pre-existing conditions.

Waiting Periods For Coverage

Most pet insurance policies have a waiting period before coverage begins. After all, a waiting period helps manage folks trying to sneak in a pre-existing condition as a “new” thing, as responsible pet parents wouldn’t delay needed treatment for accidents or illness.

Lemonade Pet Insurance has the following waiting periods:

• 2 days for accidents
• 14 days for illnesses
• 6 months for cruciate ligament events

Co-insurance, Deductible, Payout Limits

Lemonade Pet Insurance offers flexibility to choose your co-insurance level, your deductible, as well as your annual payout limit. These choices directly impact the price of your policy and consequently, the amount you’ll have to pay toward a covered accident or illness.

Generally speaking, I would choose 90% co-insurance, a deductible of $250, and $100k per year pay out limit, as it works best for me. I have paid for veterinary care in the past exceeding some of the lower limits, and as a result, I feel more comfortable with the highest limit. In my initial research quotes for coverage, the premium difference between these pay out limits appears negligible for the increased benefit.

How Lemonade Pet Insurance Reimbursement Works

In my experience with eligible claims, most insurance companies subtract your deductible amount first, with the remainder divvied up by your co-insurance amount. However, Lemonade Pet Insurance does the opposite. Every eligible claim is divided up by your co-insurance amount first – their portion and your portion. Then, your deductible is subtracted from their portion.

Math is hard, but here is a simple scenario to make sense of it. You haven’t filed any claims this year, your deductible balance is $0, and your vet prescribes a $100 medication for a covered illness. If you have 80% co-insurance, this means Lemonade pays $80 (after you meet your deductible), and you pay $20. The deductible owed is subtracted from Lemonade’s $80 share, not the full $100 bill. In other words, the 20% portion of each bill is always yours to pay, and it never counts toward the deductible.

Consequently, other companies will have you think this is very bad, and is going to cost you a lot more money, or that it somehow makes Lemonade Pet Insurance less legitimate. Don’t let this scare you. Technically, this method will cost you more. But, depending on the co-insurance level and deductible amount you’ve selected, it will only cost $10 to $150 more per year, regardless of whether your claims are $500 or $50,000. With Lemonade’s comparatively affordable premiums, this extra cost has little impact.

Optional Coverage Add-Ons

Lemonade Pet Insurance offers a number of optional coverage add-ons for things not covered in the base policy. Of course, I have pretty strong opinions on which ad-ons to purchase, and which you should pass on. These optional coverages include:

• Physical Therapy for Accidents & Illness
• Vet Visit Fees for Accidents & Illness
• Preventive Care
• Preventive+ Care
• Dental Illness
• End of Life & Remembrance

Ad-On Options for Preventive Care

All pets should be provided with basic preventive health care. It’s just part of the deal when you add a pet to your family. Lemonade Pet Insurance doesn’t cover any preventive care unless you purchase one of these ad-ons.

The deductible is not required for preventive care items, and your reimbursement is based upon your co-insurance. Additionally, there is an annual limit for each covered item (which varies slightly based upon your co-insurance). That is to say your reimbursement is not based upon actual cost.

Compare your veterinarian’s actual charges to the per item limits. You’re responsible for the ad-on’s extra premium, any charge amount exceeding the defined limit, as well as your share of the limited figure, with Lemonade paying their co-insurance amount. All things considered, the cost vs. benefit of a preventive care package generally isn’t worth it, in my opinion. I prefer to just plan these expected expenses into my pet care budget.

Other Ad-Ons I would skip

Some of Lemonade’s optional ad-ons are only offered if your pet is of a certain younger age at enrollment. However, if they are offered, I would feel reasonably comfortable skipping these coverages.

Would I purchase Lemonade Pet Insurance?

If you’re read my previous pet insurance posts on Trupanion and Healthy Paws, you know I’m a huge advocate for insuring your pets. Currently, I insure my girls with Healthy Paws. I have zero complaints on the service or coverage, but over the years, the premiums have definitely continued to rise.

Comparatively, if I were to insure them with Lemonade (Base Policy, plus Physical Therapy ad-on, same 90% coinsurance and $250 annual deductible as Healthy Paws, maxing out Lemonade’s annual limit at $100k vs. Healthy Paws unlimited), I would be paying a lot less money! Lemonade is 33-39% less for each policy, and that’s before their multi-pet discount.

Alas, each of my dogs has at least one chronic issue currently covered by Healthy Paws, so I’m not in a position to make a switch. But I have to tell you, the next time I’m in the market for a new pet insurance policy, I would not hesitate to choose Lemonade Pet Insurance as legitimate pet insurance with extremely affordable premiums, and a giveback program I feel good about!

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No, she doesn’t actually seem like she’s getting older. Quite the contrary. But as her dog mom, it’s definitely time for me to acknowledge that she IS older. And now I need to approach her health care with her advancing age in mind.

What age is considered senior for a dog?

Just like people, dogs of the same age can vary dramatically in terms of how they experience aging. A dog’s human age equivalent is impacted by many factors. These include the rate of canine development throughout life, as well as breed, and size.

Your veterinarian, familiar with your dog and their health history, can help you determine when your dog is considered a senior dog.

what is the best way to care for a senior dog?

So your dog is a senior. Now what?

Dogs often become seniors before they start to really seem like seniors. Senior dogs are more likely to develop osteoarthritis; heart, kidney, and liver diseases; endocrine, and neurological disorders; and even cancer. And like us, their health care needs change as they age.

Your veterinarian is the best resource for how to keep your senior dog healthy and happy. With Lemon now being 8 years old, I consulted with her veterinarian Dr. Richard Cutler, at Cutler Animal Hospital for advice.

I asked Dr. Cutler what are the most important actions for me to take in Lemon’s health care, so I have the best opportunity to manage the challenges of her getting older. His guidance was straight forward and practical, and fortunately for me, it’s exactly how I’ve been approaching Lemon’s veterinary care.

Establish baseline data with bloodwork screening

It should go without saying that your dog, regardless of age, should receive a complete examination at least annually. But as Lemon is getting older, Dr. Cutler advised that I add bloodwork screening to her exam. It’s extremely important to establish her baseline laboratory numbers, and to recheck those numbers regularly to look for changes. At this point, we are checking Lemon’s bloodwork annually.

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“Dogs can’t talk, so you’ll need objective data as much as possible,” says Cutler. Knowing what Lemon’s numbers look like normally, when she’s healthy (her baseline), will allow Dr. Cutler to identify concerning changes as we perform additional bloodwork screenings over time. He’s then armed with concrete data to guide his recommendations for her care.

Let me put this another way…bloodwork can be expensive! It’s a tough pill to swallow when your veterinarian recommends bloodwork screening when neither of you suspects anything is wrong. But they are making this recommendation for a good reason!

Many health issues facing senior dogs can be found in their regular bloodwork screenings before they ever present outward physical symptoms. Having baseline numbers when your dog is healthy, and rechecking those numbers for changes at an interval recommended by your veterinarian (typically annually or bi-annually), provides your best opportunity for early detection, and thus early treatment, of these issues.

Keep your dog trim and active

I’ve talked about Keeping Your Dog At A Healthy Weight before. An overweight dog, even moderately overweight, is at increased risk for many diseases, a shorter lifespan, and a lower quality of life.

A senior dog, who’s already at risk for things like osteoarthritis, heart disease, and kidney disease, is at an exponentially greater risk if they are also overweight. For an obese dog, “losing 20 pounds is better medicine for orthopedic issues than any pill,” says Cutler.

He also encourages keeping a senior dog’s activity levels up with shorter, but more frequent walks, or other activities.

Have you ever heard the saying “Use it, or lose it”? Just like people, dogs lose muscle mass as they age. A dog’s muscle mass plays a part not only in mobility and balance, but also impacts things like their bone health, energy levels, metabolism, and immune function. Keeping your senior dog active helps to combat age-related muscle loss, and its associated risks.

be responsive to small concerns

As your dog becomes a senior, it’s best to retire having a “wait and see” attitude. Seemingly benign concerns may be the first outward physical symptoms of a major medical issue. Early detection and treatment provides the best opportunity to keep your senior dog healthy and happy.

Cutler advises senior dog parents to “be responsive as soon as anything seems abnormal for your dog. Don’t wait until it’s too late.”

At 8 years old, my black Labrador Lily developed a limp. A Labrador with a limp sounds like no big deal right? As it turns out, limping or lameness is an early sign of Endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves and/or lining of the heart. Bacteria, entering the body though a small skin wound, an abscess, or even the mouth due to severe dental disease, travel in the bloodstream to the heart.

Lily’s endocarditis caused permanent damage to her Aortic valve, leading to congestive heart failure. Six months later, she was gone, and that seemingly minor limp was the first outward sign of this illness. Had I waited, Lily likely wouldn’t have survived the week.

keep your senior dog healthy and happy

As your dog becomes a senior, navigating their changing health care needs doesn’t need to be a scary thing. If you’ve not already done so, it’s time to establish a regular relationship with a reputable veterinarian you trust, and to follow their recommendations.

If you’re local to the Charleston, SC area, I highly recommend Dr. Richard Cutler, and his staff, at Cutler Animal Hospital. I would not trust my girls’ care to anyone else!

A moment of pause

In the weeks since my initial conversation with Dr. Cutler regarding senior dog health care recommendations and my own senior dog Lemon, I’ve learned of the passing of two senior dogs (from separate families) who very likely could have been saved had they been provided more frequent wellness visits, including bloodwork diagnostics.

While my heart breaks for any family losing a pet, please let their losses serve as an example why these very simple and practical recommendations are truly necessary for your own senior dog’s best well-being.

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Insurance for accidents and Illness

Like Trupanion, pet insurance with Healthy Paws is for accidents and illness only. When you have a dog, certain expenses are expected. Flea and heart worm prevention, and annual vaccinations are examples. But what about the unexpected things? Things like accidents, illness, cancer, genetic conditions, or emergency care. That’s where Healthy Paws comes in.

healthy paws Summary

• Flexible reimbursement rates, typically 70%, 80%, or 90%.
• Flexible annual deductible, typically $100, $250, or $500.
• A 15-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses, except hip dysplasia.
• A 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia. A Healthy Paws policy includes coverage for hip dysplasia only if your pet is under 6 years old at the time of enrollment, and then for the lifetime of your pet.
• Reimbursement is based on actual veterinary costs at any veterinary hospital for the treatment of unexpected illnesses and injuries that did not exist prior to coverage (i.e. not a pre-existing condition, which is excluded from coverage).
• Included coverage for many alternative treatment options, such as physical therapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and massage. Read more about these treatments in my post What is the Safest Anti-Inflammatory for Dogs?
• No maximum limits on payouts. In other words, no per incident, annual or lifetime caps on your pet’s benefits.
• Wellness or preventive care, and exam fees, are not covered.

It’s important to note, no pet insurance policy currently available offers coverage for pre-existing conditions. To avoid the dreaded pre-existing condition exclusion, your best bet is to insure your pet as soon as you get them, before any conditions are permanently recorded in their record.

Also, Healthy Paws may limit the range of reimbursement rates or deductible options depending on your pet’s age at enrollment and/or their breed. The maximum age at which you can enroll your pet is 14 years. However, once enrolled, the coverage extends for your pet’s lifetime, even beyond 14 years.

Key differences with trupanion

• Healthy Paws offers an annual deductible vs. Trupanion’s per condition lifetime deductible.
• Healthy Paws allows a sliding scale of reimbursement rates, up to 90%. If you choose a lower reimbursement rate, your premium lowers. Conversely, this increases your share of any covered treatment. Trupanion only offers a reimbursement rate of 90%.
• A Healthy Paws policy includes alternative treatment coverage without a separate policy add-on. Trupanion offers this coverage, but only when you purchase the Recovery and Complementary Care Rider. However, if you have purchased this rider, Trupanion includes coverage for behavioral modification, which Healthy Paws does not offer.
• Healthy Paws does not offer any coverage for specialty diets, while Trupanion offers limited coverage for specialty diets prescribed by a veterinarian.
• Healthy Paws covers shipping costs for compounded medications and diagnostic testing. Trupanion does not cover any shipping costs.
• Healthy Paws representatives are only available during business hours (Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST, Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST, Closed Sunday), while Trupanion representatives are available for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you are in an emergency after hours situation, and have questions regarding your coverage, Trupanion is always there. You can even execute a pre-approval for any treatments you’re considering.
• With Healthy Paws, there are no claim forms. Just submit receipts by email or through their handy mobile app, and Healthy Paws takes it from there. With Trupanion, all claim submissions must include a fully completed claim form.

Not a difference, but a commonality, Healthy Paws and Trupanion both reimburse based on actual veterinary costs at any veterinarian hospital. And neither company has any payout limits on your claims. IMO, these might be the most important aspects to look for when choosing a pet insurance policy.

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My Experience with Healthy Paws pet insurance

Healthy Paws appears to be a better value the younger your dog is at the time of enrollment. If your dog’s quote limits the reimbursement or deductible options (i.e. does not allow you to choose a reimbursement rate up to 90%, or an annual deductible as low as $100-$250), it would behoove you to compare policies with another reputable company, like Trupanion.

I chose Healthy Paws for Lemon because the price they offered for 90% reimbursement and a $250 annual deductible was less than Trupanion offered for 90% reimbursement and a $500 lifetime per condition deductible. Lemon’s Trupanion quote included the Recovery and Complementary Care rider, which I would always include when choosing coverage with Trupanion.

Personally, I have found the actual coverage between Healthy Paws and Trupanion (when you have purchased Trupanion’s Recovery and Complementary Care rider) to be very comparable. And I love that filing a claim is as simple as sending in the receipt. The main difference between these policies has been Healthy Paws’ annual deductible vs. Trupanion’s lifetime per condition deductible. Personally, I like the simplicity of planning for X amount deductible in my budget each year.

The bottom line

My experience with Healthy Paws pet insurance has been very positive. Lemon has been insured for nearly 4 years (and counting). Here’s a summary of what Healthy Paws has reimbursed for Lemon to date:

• I’ve filed 48 claims to Healthy Paws totaling $18,027.22 including:
  • Three hospital stays for severe nausea and bowel issues totaling 9 days.
  • Diagnostics including multiple X-rays, multiple ultrasounds, an endoscopy, and other diagnostic testing.
  • Multiple feeding tube placements, IVs, bloodwork, and countless medications to manage her condition.
  • Surgery and pathology for a mammary tumor.
• Healthy Paws has reimbursed a total of $14,029.90 for these claims.
• My out of pocket expense for these claims is $3,997.32, which includes:
  • Deductibles totaling $1,000.00 (4 years x $250)
  • Excluded charges of $1,467.48 for exam fees and a small amount of prescription food.
  • My 10% share of the remaining covered expenses (90% reimbursement rate)
• All in, Healthy Paws has paid 78% of my unplanned, unexpected care for Lemon so far.

Remember, when considering pet insurance, it pays to read the fine print and ask questions. Really knowing and understanding what is covered and what is not covered helps avoid surprises down the road. If you’re able to insure your pet early, it helps avoid any gray areas when it comes to pre-existing condition exclusions.

As I’ve mentioned before, “winning” at pet insurance is the peace of mind you get from having coverage. You don’t necessarily want a reason to use it. But if you do use it, it helps to know you’ve chosen a policy that’s got you covered!

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do as I say, not as i do

I’m going to eat ALL. THE. THINGS. on Thanksgiving Day. I will most definitely put myself in a food coma. But the number one thing to keep your dog safe this Thanksgiving is NOT using the holiday as an excuse to over feed or over indulge your dog. Even dog-safe Thanksgiving foods can cause gastrointestinal upset for your dog if it’s too far off course from their normal diet. Go ahead and give them a special treat! Just don’t over do it.

Feed this

The base of many Thanksgiving favorites are completely heathy for your dog to enjoy in moderation. For example, sweet potatoes are a great choices to share with your dog….BEFORE you add butter, cinnamon, sugar, marshmallows and pecans. Plain pumpkin puree – something I often keep on hand for upset dog tummies – is a dog safe treat, until you’ve turned it into pumpkin pie.

Thanksgiving favorites that can be shared with your dog when in their natural state (sans additional flavor enhancers) include:

• Lean turkey without skin, or bones
• Apples slices, without core or seeds
• Unsweetened pumpkin puree
• Sweet potatoes
• Carrots
• Green beans
• A small bite of cheese, hold the mac

Remember, moderation is key. If your dog doesn’t normally get table food like this, don’t suddenly give them all these “safe” items, as that can still upset your dog’s belly. Give only a bite, or two, and an extra helping of attention with a belly rub, and call it a feast!

not that

If you’ve not yet gathered it, do not give your dogs foods that are enhanced with butter, sugar, salt, pepper, other seasonings, etc.

Thanksgiving items to avoid giving your dog include:

• Fatty meats, bones, skin, gravy
• Seeds or cores
• Onions, scallions, garlic
• Raisins or grapes
• Butter, or other seasonings
• Any normally healthy vegetable now creamed or mashed or made into a casserole
• Yeast dough
• Sugar, sweets, or anything containing Xylitol
• Alcohol

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Other Thanksgiving tips to keep your dog safe

• Keep trash secure and out of reach. This goes not only for those food items that should be off limits, but also for foil or other wrappings that can cause blockages if ingested by your dog.
• Ensure guests’ belongings are out of reach (Xylitol gum or candy, or medications can pose a problem if your dog rifles through a guest’s bag).
• If you suspect a problem with your pup, react quickly. Visit your local veterinary emergency center, or call Animal Poison Control.

Following these common sense Thanksgiving safety tips for dogs will have you, and your dog, feeling thankful this Thanksgiving holiday!

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Asters

When it comes to dog friendly flowers for Fall, Asters might be perfect! If you believe you can’t survive the season without Mums, then you must try Asters in your fall landscape. These perennial plants come in a variety of sizes, with colors ranging from blue and purple to pink and white. With at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, Asters are easy to grow, and they provide a plentiful source of nectar, attracting Fall pollinators to your garden.

Celosia

I’ve had dog safe Celosia in my garden all summer, but with it’s traditional Fall color palette, it continues to be an excellent choice for sunny Fall gardens. Numerous varieties of Celosia offer different styles of bloom, but all are stunners, offering both interesting textures and vibrant colors. Check out the Cristata (my fave), Plumosa, and Spicata varieties to see what Celosia has to offer your Fall pet safe landscape.

Russian Sage

Russian Sage is generally considered non-toxic, and a good choice for your pet safe garden. Added to a sunny, well drained area, this perennial is drought tolerant once established. It’s silver-green foliage and fragrant lavender-purple blooms are attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. It’s also deer resistant, and disease resistant, rounding out its low maintenance qualities.

However, use common sense when adding this (or any plant) to your garden. Though called Sage, it’s not related to edible Sage varieties. While it’s considered non-toxic for pets, this does not mean you should allow your dog to freely consume it. The leaves of Russian Sage contain an organic compound called Thujone, which is considered poisonous.

So why is Russian Sage considered as dog friendly flowers for Fall?

Because it is unlikely your dog would consume the large quantities of this plant, repeatedly over a long period of time, needed to experience negative effects. Therefore it’s generally considered a safe option. However, if your dog is over interested in the Russian Sage, it’s best to move it out of their reach.

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snapdragons

Snapdragons are one of my top choices in dog friendly flowers for Fall (and Spring if I’m being honest). Preferring sun, but tolerating partial shade, Snapdragons thrive in cooler temperatures. They show their best blooms when daytime highs are in the low 70s, with cool nights in the low 40s. Like the Celosia, Snapdragons have a number of varieties, and a range of colors, to suit your Fall landscape needs. And similar to pet safe Orchids, choosing snapdragons with many unopened buds will ensure a lengthy bloom time for you to enjoy.

pansies

You will have an array of color choices when adding Pansies to your dog friendly Fall landscape. Similar to Snapdragons, these delicate non-toxic blooms prefer sun, tolerate some shade, and look their best in cooler temperatures. Temperatures from the mid 60s, down to the mid 40s, are their jam.

My dog loving friends, there is absolutely no reason to let Mum season get you down! These dog friendly Mum alternatives are proof positive that Mother Nature loves dogs too. Your garden will have all the colors that Fall Mums bring, but far more textural variety and visual interest!

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take cover in the shade

If you must be outdoors with your dog this summer, make sure your dog has plenty of access to shade. Being in the sun typically feels 10-15 degrees hotter due to the sun’s solar radiation.

If you don’t have plentiful shade in your yard, create it! Provide your dog an elevated cot with canopy or add a sun shade sail canopy to your outdoor space.

Amazon

Amazon

A pop up canopy, like you use for tailgating, or a large patio umbrella are also good options for adding shade.

Amazon

Amazon

Be wary of dog houses during summer. While a dog house does provide shade, the enclosure prevents airflow, which can lead to your dog overheating.

Stay hydrated

Always have fresh water that’s easily accessible your dog. This may mean adding some additional water bowls, both indoors and in your yard. Or try a Lixit Faucet Waterer or paw activated water fountain. These items attach to your hose bib, acting as a water fountain for your dog.

Amazon

Amazon

Even when taking a short outing, bring along plenty of water for your dog. But don’t just bring it with you! Make sure to offer it, and encourage your dog to drink small amounts throughout your outing. Use a collapsible bowl, or portable drinking dispenser.

Amazon

Amazon

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Keep it cool

Evaporative cooling can help regulate your dog’s core body temperature. Let’s get sciencey. Heat fuels evaporation. As water turns to vapor, it takes heat energy with it. That heat is coming from the surface from which the water evaporated. Thus when water turns to vapor, the vapor takes heat away, having a cooling effect on the surface left behind.

Take advantage of this science with the RUFFWEAR Swamp Cooler Evaporative Cooling Vest. The fabric reflects solar radiation, while the evaporation pulls heat from your dog’s body, helping to keep him cooler.

Amazon

Make playtime a water sport by adding a dog pool or splash pad to your outdoor space.

Amazon

Amazon

Or when all else fails, just use a good old fashioned hose.

Protect those paws

Did you know that your dog’s paws can burn and blister on hot pavement? Surfaces like asphalt or concrete sidewalks will be exponentially hotter than the air temperature due to solar radiation from the sun. Review the infographic below from Impact Dog Crates‘ post Is It Too Hot To Walk Your Dog?.

Walking surfaces can reach 125˚when it’s only 77˚ outside, which SEEMS like a prime walking temperature. Always test the surface on which you’ll be walking. Place the back of your hand on it for at least 7 seconds. If it feels too hot for you, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws as well.

NEver leave your dog in a parked car

It should go without saying, but unfortunately it needs to be said again. Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a parked car can increase dramatically within minutes! Review the infographic below from Petplan‘s post Keep It Cool For Pets – Don’t Leave Them In A Hot Car.

Sadly, even if you leave the car and AC running, it’s still not a pass to leave your dog in the car. Cars and compressors can malfunction. Dogs can accidentally bump or press buttons. If they can’t truly go with you, love them enough to leave them at home.

When it comes to summer safety tips for your dog, taking a little extra precaution this summer goes a long way to staying safe, and staying cool!

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