Every good pet lover knows the burden of wanting to help their favorite furry family member is just like caring for a child. Vet bills can end up out of control if you go running every time there may be a small problem. Here’s a few typical issues and at home remedies to help both your best bud and your Vet Budget.
Split or Cracked Nail: This is common with working dog breeds. It can get painful for them too, so if you noticed the crack is not so minor such as heavy bleeding, swelling or signs of infection, this may be something that needs immediate attention from a Vet. Keep the toe covered for a few days so the nerves can die in split area so you can cut off the overhang later. Keep the split nail clean daily with antiseptic for animals or use hydrogen peroxide (this will sting a bit, so use caution and hold on to the paw well). Pull out any infection or solids from the wound by soaking the area in a bowl of Epsom salts and warm water. Bribe them with treats and belly rubs to get them comfortable for this. Let it air dry completely, coat the wound with antibiotic ointment, covering it with gauze and wrap with medical tape, keeping the pads of the paw wrapping free. If your dog is a chewer, put a sock on the leg to prevent the bandage from coming off. Do this for 4-5 days to prevent further infection and injury.
Constipation: This is a common problem which can become fatal if untreated. The most obvious sign is a pet giving a concentrated effort with little to no result. More serious signs include vomiting and a loss of appetite. Note: If an episode of constipation doesn’t resolve within a day or two, there may be a much more serious issue in the works like a blockage due to a foreign object, impacted bowl or a chronic condition such as megacolon. If this is the case, it is vital to bring your pet to the Vet… his or her life could be in imminent danger. Try feeding 1 teaspoon of 100% pure canned pumpkin or coconut fiber per 10 pounds of body weight 1-2 times daily with their meals. You can also try giving your pet probiotic supplements which can be found at your local holistic pet supply store. If you have the courage and a second helper, you can give your pet a feline/canine enema, in your bathtub to avoid a big mess. This is a last resort and should only be done at the approval of your Veterinarian. Do Not give them a human brand. This could kill your pet inside of 24-48 very painful hours! Despite what you may have read online, laxatives like Mineral Oil can cause severe damage to your pets lungs and should be avoided at all costs. Avoid constipation all together by feeding your pet a balanced diet. Avoid grocery store brand dry kibble, which is equivalent to feeding your pet dirty fast food. Kibble in general should not be the main source of food for pets as it leads to dehydration and the necessity to find other sources of water.
Bug Bites or Bee Stings: A bite or sting can animals can have an allergic reaction resulting facial swelling, problems breathing, vomiting, hives or fainting. Even if your pet doesn’t have a reaction, they will feel the same pain us humans do, so it’s important to know how to help them. Apply a paste mixture of baking soda and water to the sting area to neutralize the sting. If you can see the bee sting, try scrapping it out with a credit card. Tweezers can be used but avoid adding pressure to the bubbled area where the venom sac is, as this will make the sting worse. Comfort your pet using frozen peas or a cold, wet paper towel. Note: Get your pet to the emergency Veterinarian Hospital if signs of an Allergic reaction are present.
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