What Causes Paw Licking?

Like most other professionals, for years I have attributed excessive licking (and subsequent staining) to allergies.  It is, after all, one of the most common causes.  And with so much out there contributing to our pets' weakened immune systems (low quality processed diets, over-vaccination, environmental toxins, genetic predisposition...) is it any wonder this is such a common problem?
Well, I just came across this very interesting article, pointing out another potential cause of paw licking.  Definitely worth a read!  http://www.ivcjournal.com/articles/excessive-paw-licking-in-dogs-it-may-not-be-allergies/  If you have been unsuccessful with allergy treatment programs that "should have worked", it might be time to look into chiropractic or acupuncture.
While allergies will probably remain my first guess, especially when there is extensive staining elsewhere on the body (face, belly) or other symptoms of detox (ear infections, skin problems), I'll be looking more closely at dogs who pay "special attention" to a certain foot or two.  The neurological connection makes so much sense.  Of course, there is also the possibility of a dog having both allergies and spinal issues...

Tara accepts the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

And now for something totally unrelated to dogs...

I've never been one to follow internet memes... actually, I don't even know what the heck a "meme" is, but apparently this is one of them.  So when my niece nominated me for the #IceBucketChallenge I admit I groaned ever so slightly.  But despite some cynics out there, this particular stunt actually has been making a big difference.  Check out this article I found, which made some good points and played a small part in me deciding to accept the challenge.  http://www.forbes.com/sites/matthewherper/2014/08/19/think-the-ice-bucket-challenge-is-stupid-youre-wrong/  Also go to the ALS Assn's website for more info straight from the horse's mouth.  http://www.alsa.org/fight-als/ice-bucket-challenge.html  To help out, click on the big red "Donate" button. 

A special thanks to my clients, whose generous tips over the summer have made this extra contribution both possible and painless.  :-) 

A Veterinary Guide to Tear Stains

I am often asked about how to deal with staining problems in pets.  That rusty brown hair around your dog's eyes or mouth, or places he licks a lot, like feet, etc. is not only unsightly but is generally a sign of an underlying health condition.  Unfortunately there are several potential causes, so no one remedy will necessarily clear up the cosmetic symptoms. 

Here is a very good article from a vet clinic that was recently shared within my groomers network.  While an entire book would probably have to be written to cover all the potential underlying causes of staining and go into detail on the many treatment options, this article is one of the most thorough and helpful I have seen.

http://www.leospetcare.com/a-veterinary-guide-to-tear-stains/

Show Dog Transformation

Big fluffy coats on our Poodles is so luxurious... but maintaining it is not all fun and games.  Come spring & summer, we must contend daily with mud, ticks, etc. and our dogs are starting to get hot.  Time for a trim!

But what of the show dogs like Tripp?  Well, we can still have style with shorter hair!  After one final cleaup - the bath alone taking a full hour, then drying for approximately 1.5 hours - I decided to put Tripp back in pattern.  Yes, this means I shaved his butt.  No, he is not embarrased by it.  This is actually the traditional trim for hunting Poodles (they are historically versatile working dogs) - excess coat was removed for free movement in the water without being weighed down, while hair was left on the chest and joints to provide insulation.  Obviously these retrievers did not sport the big hair you see in today's show ring!  The "Historically Correct Continental" is much closer to the original Poodle trim, yet it conforms to modern breed standards.  Although most handlers opt for full coats (and most judges prefer it), it's entirely within regulations to show a dog in HCC trim.  Several dogs actually have been successful in the AKC ring, finishing their Championships or earning other awards while in shortened coat.  A good judge who looks beyond grooming to the dog itself (as it should be) will put up the better dog, regardless of hair length.  In the UKC ring (where Tripp shows), you will see many more Poodles in alternate clips, as here it is standard for judges to evaluate the dog by more important merits.  It seems that Canada is more accepting of Poodles in HCC trim as well.  Of course, such a tight coat is less able to hide faults, so it takes a well put together dog to truly pull it off.

Tripp is now ready for the hot summer shows & trials, with his sexy new 'do.  As you can see, even though the HCC is a tighter show trim, it still has plenty of flair!  But then, we all know Tripp looks good no matter how I groom him.  ;-)

Anesthesia-Free Dental Cleaning

There has been a lot of talk recently about dental care for your pets.  A healthy mouth is very important for overall health, just as in humans.  The question is, how do you provide maintenance care for your dog?  Having teeth simply brushed once a month or less may freshen breath and remove loose debris (like food), but it does nothing to improve condition of the teeth.  This is why, while I offer teeth brushing as a cosmetic perk, I don't strongly promote it (plus I'm just a terrible sale-person. ;-)  However, there are options beyond basic brushing which many other pet professionals offer.  As I am continually educating myself on new pet care techniques, I have looked into some of these methods and products.  Most I don't care for, but a few are on my list to consider futher.
The big thing now is anesthesia-free dental cleaning.  It sounds great, but it is a controversial technique.  My main issue is that it is not necessarily as safe - or effective - as it's cracked up to be.  Of course, for every nay-sayer, there are also plenty of success stories.  So this one is tentatively on my list... however, (procrastination and busy schedule aside) I am not rushing to delve into deeper research and become adept at the technique(s) in order to add on the service.  My reasons are explained very well in the two following articles.  Another very valid concern is that such cleanings are not legal in most states!  Obviously, if it turns out NH does not allow non-veterinarians to perform detal procedures, then it matters not how much we all like the results or what my potential added income may be.
So what can be done, then?  Sorry to burst your bubble, but it does come down to brushing your pet's teeth at home.  I know, I know, I'm bad about keeping up with that too.  Other beneficial maintenance includes feeding a raw diet and/or offering bones for your dog to chew (kibble does NOT keep teeth clean no matter what they tell you), or try using an oral care spray such as Petzlife.  Dental gels such as Oxyfresh commonly used as toothpaste can also be applied quickly with your fingertip instead of brushing, as the product generally does more work than the toothbrush.  Brushing action mainly serves to remove loose stuff but can not make a dent in actual tarter buildup.  No matter what you choose though, the key is doing it regularly.  That means more often than every few weeks when you have your pet groomed.

Here is a simple, but well written article from a vet regarding anesthesia-free dental cleaning.
http://speakingforspot.com/blog/2011/11/27/anesthesia-free-dental-cleaning/

For more information, check out Whole Dog Journal's coverage of the technique.
http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/7_11/features/Canine-Teeth-Cleaning_15666-1.html
p.s. I highly respect WDJ as a reliable source for good health advice.



Update:
Here is a list of laws by state regarding dental procedures on pets.
https://www.avma.org/Advocacy/StateAndLocal/Pages/sr-dental-procedures.aspx

Currently, this issue is not specifically addressed here in NH.