Delia Ortocanis

Why use an orthopedic mattress in older dogs

cama perro ortopedicaDogs, just like us, may need a specific mattress to improve their rest. Much more so if it is about older dogs with pain, mobility problems or that have just come out of a surgical operation . For these cases, orthopedic mattresses for dogs can be a great ally.

What are orthopedic mattresses?:

Orthopedic mattresses for dogs distribute the dog’s weight evenly and adapt to the shape of the animal’s body while lying down. Its function is to avoid pressure points in order to optimize the dog’s rest and joint performance.

Orthopedic mattresses made with memory foam allow the bed to adapt perfectly to the dog’s body, simulating its shape thanks to the memory effect, and then return to its initial state when the dog decides to control the perimeter.

In addition, some mattresses incorporate a waterproof cover, for urinary incontinence or excessive drooling, and with anti-bacterial treatments that increase hygiene and prevent unpleasant odours.

These mattresses are recommended for dogs with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or bursitis and if they fulfill their purpose, they will minimize the difficulty and pain when getting up.

colchón perrosCharacteristics of a visco-elastic mattress:

-Eliminates pressure points by distributing the dog’s weight correctly and evenly, thanks to the special design of the undulating visco-elastic surface.

-Reduces the formation of hygromas and bursitis.

-Improves the rest of dogs with osteoarthritis or joint problems thanks to the adaptability of the material to the shape of the body.

How do I know what mattress size is right for my dog?

There are dogs that like to sleep making the conch shell, others stretched out and some characters even on their backs. If we know the tastes of ours, it will help to decide the size. In any case, the ideal is to look for a mattress with a comfortable size for the dog, which allows it to stretch and accommodate itself in such a way that its limbs are not outside the mattress.

For this, it is recommended to take the measurement of the dog from the nose to the end of the tail and add approximately 20 cm.

Where is the best place to put the mattress?

Choose a quiet, warm and comfortable place in the house. You can notice where the dog spends most of the time to place it there. Remember to allow her to sniff it out first so she can become familiar with her new nest.

Find a place where the mattress is embedded, that is, it cannot be moved from its site. In older dogs it is possible that when they want to raise their limbs, they inadvertently push the mattress and it moves, making going to bed somewhat frustrating. See if the mattress includes an anti-slip system. This detail could be of great help.

Orthopedic mattresses improve the dog’s quality of life , especially if he has joint pain. After using it for a few days you will notice positive results in your behavior, including an improved mood.

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Delia Ortocanis

Anxiety in post-confinement dogs

 

ansiedad perro

After several months of quarantine at home, the return to the offices is restarted and with it comes the separation of our animals. This can lead to Separation anxiety in dogs . For this reason, it is useful to observe them the first days of the new routine, and follow some recommendations so that the dog feels calmer and copes better with anxiety.

Symptoms of anxiety in dogs due to separation:

Some of the behaviors that dogs with anxiety symptoms usually show are:

-Break objects.

-Stay close to their owners and follow them wherever they go.

-Urinate or defecate in places you don’t touch.

-More barking than usual.

-Stop eating.

-Panting above usual.

-Try to escape when they are alone.

Recommendations to improve dog anxiety:

– Music:

Making a personalized music playlist can help your dog improve anxiety as well as block out fear-provoking noises.

Many dogs have been shown to prefer classical music and harp music. This can serve as a natural sedative:

  • Lisa Spector piano music
  • Harp music by Christina Tourin

– Adequate space:

Having an entertaining environment with some ventilation will help the dog to better manage anxiety.

– Relaxation:

Colchón Ortopédico Having a bed or mattress can be helpful in teaching your dog to make an association with a moment of rest. A daily routine can be established where the dog learns to lie down on his mat after each exercise session, to take a nap or play with his own toys and then give him a treat.

To optimize rest and improve joint performance, you can also use thermal beds .

– Gift when leaving:

So that the dog can associate the act of leaving as something positive, it may be interesting to reinforce the exit with a reward.

masaje calmante– Massages:

Anxiety often causes tension in the muscles, so massage can help relieve tension. You can keep one hand on the dog and with the other massage starting at the neck and work your way down in long strokes. You can also use heat massagers that, in addition to being relaxing, have a beneficial system on the vascular system. Or consult with rehabilitation centers.

– Routine:

At the beginning of a change it is advisable to follow a predictable routine so that the dog can begin to sense when he can expect attention and when not. Scheduling a time to be with him and another to rest can give great results.

– Exercise:

Exercising with the dog is always recommended, as it will help him to be calmer and strengthen his muscles to prevent possible pathologies.

– Natural calming supplements:

In the first days of a big change, natural painkillers can help the dog alleviate the level of anxiety. You can consult your veterinarian to find out which supplements are the most appropriate.

What not to do:

If the dog has been anxious during your departure, and this has led to the house being destroyed or dirty, anything he does can increase the anxiety, making things worse for future outings. Therefore, both punishment and excited greetings should be avoided. At home, it’s best not to pay attention to the dog until it calms down (about 10-15 minutes). The dog should soon learn that the faster he settles, the sooner he will get your attention.

 

 

 

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Ortopedia canina

The main care that the dog should have in summer

Spring ends, and with the arrival of summer temperatures rise. At many points we will exceed 35 degrees maximum before we know it.

Like humans, dogs also suffer from the effects of rising temperatures . Therefore, special care must be taken with them. The dog in summer requires special attention.

These simply consist of relieving it so that the heat makes the least possible dent in it. It will suffice to follow a few guidelines to achieve this, and that the animal is as comfortable as possible despite the heat.

The dog in summer: more hydration

The main care that the dog must have in summer is related to hydration. It is essential that you always have water nearby so that you can drink as much as you want, because you will need to drink more than in winter. Water is the best element so that you can keep your body temperature constant , and do not raise your temperature. You have to try, yes, that it is not too hot, so it should be removed from the sun. And change it from time to time.

In case you are with the dog outside the house, they should always carry water with them in summer . There are not always places that provide water for dogs, and if they do not hydrate frequently, they can have a hard time. Do not forget a suitable container so that the animal can drink comfortably.

The heat can also lead the dog to jump headfirst into swimming pools , run to bathe in the sea or go into the river to cool off . Other than getting wet and “showering” everything around you when you shake off, there are no major precautions to take in this regard. Of course, watch where you swim, just in case you don’t make foot and get tired, because you could sink. In that case it will be time to rescue him.

dog hair in summer

When temperatures rise, it is common to see dogs whose hair has been cut to keep them cooler on the streets. But this cannot be done with all breeds , so it is best to check with your vet before doing so. For example, it is advisable to do it in the case of small dogs with long hair.

But if the dog is larger and has hard hair, it should not be cut , as it can be detrimental to its health. The hair is responsible, among other things, for protecting your skin, and its absence can cause damage. What is advisable is to take care that it is well dewormed to avoid additional discomfort to that of the heat.

To alleviate the heat, you can use a water spray , which will be poured on your hair. And if there is a fan, he can be allowed to stand nearby so that the air can soothe him. Of course, in the case of air conditioning, care must be taken that it is not placed right where the air jet hits it. Just like humans, dogs can catch colds, and the draft of refrigerated air can make them cold. If it’s really hot, a cooling vest, like this one, can help.

As for their diet, it should not be changed. And the walks must be carried out , as far as possible, in the hours of the day when it is less hot . It is best to walk early in the morning and in the late afternoon.

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Ortopedia canina

Why adopt a disabled dog

They say that dogs are man’s best friend, and they are probably right. Therefore, when looking for a companion, we should not look at the appearance but at the emotions, which go inside. Today we want to tell you some reasons why to adopt a disabled dog. Unfortunately, they are often forgotten in kennels and shelters.

What it means to adopt a disabled dog

Every pet needs some care. Animal welfarenot only implies having a living space and food available, but should also include walks appropriate to the dog’s breed, as well as affection and play.

Adopting a disabled dog is, it must be said, a great responsibility. In addition to the same basic needs of any dog, it will have other specific needs. And also, some of them, such as the rides, will have certain particularities.

adopt a disabled dog

However, that said, adopting a disabled dog is a decision that, provided we have the time and financial resources, can be very rewarding. Precisely because of their limitations, this type of animal tends to be more grateful and more affectionate than those in good health.

We tend to think that animals are not intelligent, but the opposite is true. They have the capacity to perceive love and affection, and they are also aware of when they can be a burden. If you want to make a gesture of solidarity and adopt a disabled dog, here are some reasons that will help you reaffirm your decision. And if you’ve never thought about it, maybe it’s an opportunity.

Reasons to adopt a disabled dog

There are many reasons to adopt a disabled dog. Here are some of them.

They have the right to a dignified life

Nobody likes to complicate things, but it is true that among humans we have a greater tolerance. However, dogs, or animals in general, have no one to speak for them, so they tend to be the forgotten ones in society.

By adopting a disabled dog, we are giving him an opportunity he probably would not have had in his life. Many of them, if they reach the kennel, are quickly euthanized. When they reside in shelters, although they are cared for, they may not have all their needs met, as resources are scarce in these centers. Having one of these dogs at home will make both the adopter and the animal feel good.

They will love us very much

One of the reasons why we have pets is precisely this, to feel accompanied. That’s why adopting a disabled dog is a good idea. They will know everything you do for them and will give you all the love they have inside.

There are many products to help us

Nowadays, we can find in the market many products designed to improve the life of these animals. For example, harnesses have differentdesigns adapted to mobility problems, disability or paralysis. Thanks to them, walking or moving around will be much easier. It is even possible to find wheelchairs for dogs.

Adopting a disabled dog is both a challenge and a responsibility. But if you are able to accept them, do not hesitate. They, more than anyone else, will thank you.

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Ortopedia canina

Care of a dog that has had a leg amputation

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Until not so long ago, finding a dog with one or more legs missing, either completely or partially, was not very common. When a doghad an accident or suffereda disease that resulted in the amputation of a leg, it was customary to put it down. There was not much information on the subject, nor many options for dogs suffering from this problem.

But fortunately for animals, this is no longer the case. Advances in both surgery and care for dogs that have suffered the loss of a leg mean that they are able to cope and fend for themselves. To the point of living a practically normal life. Of course, with some special care and attention.

Care of a dog that has had a leg amputation

Caring for a dog with a recently amputated leg

If the dog has recently lost a leg, it will require certaincare until it physically recovers. Unlike humans, who require several months to recover physically after an amputation, a dog recovers from this type of operation quite quickly. Indeed, in two or three days, a dog can be quite recoveredfrom the operation. And he will have regainedhis mobility, almost completely, in two to three weeks.

You may need a little help at first to get up, relieve yourself, or eat, for example. Especially if the amputation is of the foreleg. In these cases, the animal will recover somewhat more slowly than if the amputation is of the rear. This is because dogs carry more weight on their front legs than on their hind legs.

What we will have to worry about is the wound healing and its cures. It is important to make sure that the wound does not become infected and that it heals well. Generally, the veterinarian will be in charge of a careful follow-up of the wound, although it is also advisable to monitor it at home and report any anomaly to the veterinarian. If there is no problem, the staples that are usually used to close this type of wound will be removed in about 15 days.

On an emotional level, recovery will be another matter. An amputation can be somewhat complicated for a dog, so he may be sad or listless for a few days. It’s perfectly normal, but it won’t last long. Dogs, when they get used to their new situation, have no trauma. They can be perfectly happy even if they have three legs.

Precautions for dogs with amputated legs

As mentioned above, a dog with a missing leg will be able to recover in a short time. And live a practically normal life. For them it will be no problem to run or jump with only three legs. It seems amazing, but that’s how it is. However, there are some precautions to be taken with the health of this type of dog. Especially in terms of muscles and bones.

Dogs that have had a leg amputated will, thereafter,redistribute the weight of the body and remaining limbs differently. From one that, although comfortable for you, is not your natural one. Therefore, it is advisable to watch your bones and, above all, your spine, to avoid wear and tear. Periodic check-ups sincethe amputation will have to pay special attention to your muscles and bones to avoid problems.

Ortocanis editorial team.

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Ortopedia canina

Keys to a dog’s well-being

The concept of animal welfare is usually related only to animals intended for human consumption. However, any living being has the right to have a dignified life in which its needs are respected. We tell you the keys to the welfare of a pet dog.

What we call the welfare of a dog

The welfare of a dog or any animal refers, as its name indicates, to a situation in which it can live well. That is, that it resembles what is natural according to its species and its needs. Having an animal under our care is a responsibilitythat includes different aspects, and that does not only refer to providing food.

As is the case with humans, and as we have said on other occasions, our needs include relationships with other members of our species, affection and health care.

Therefore, we want to emphasize the care that is needed for the welfare of a dog. It must be taken into account that the purpose of these is not only the happiness of the animal, but also theprevention of diseases.

Keys to a dog's well-being

Animal welfare care

Quality food

Feeding is the most basic aspect of a dog’s well-being. However, it must be of high quality. In order to enjoy good health and avoid the development of diseases, as some of them are directly related to nutrition, the animal must ingest all the necessary nutrients.

When the diet is not varied or there are deficiencies, problems appear which, if not treated correctly, can lead to serious pathologies. To avoid this, the feed must be of high quality, as many are based on animal by-products and may not include the necessary vitamins and minerals. In addition, water should always be available in abundance.

On the other hand, it is important to know which foods are harmful to your health. Not everything we humans ingest is tolerated by them. So in order to maintain a dog’s well-being, we must consult if something is suitable before giving it to him.

Time to play

Even though our friend is no longer a puppy, he also needs to play and engage in regular physical activity for proper emotional health. While people may spend days at home of their own free will, a dog’s well-being necessarily involves daily walks.

In addition, depending on its breed, it may have greater needs. Thus, while some may be satisfied with a simple walk, others need to run and/or walk longer distances to avoid anxiety and stay fit. Regarding toys, we must verify that they are not toxic. Playing with animals develops bonding, which is very important for their happiness.

Medical care

Animals have a higher resistance to disease than humans. We must know how to identify pain in dogs, as well as strange behaviors that can warn us that something is wrong. The welfare of a dog requires medical assistance whenever something happens to him. Even if some lesions seem unimportant to us, we must go to the veterinarian to treat them.

The welfare of a dog is a right that we cannot deny him. If we love and care about our friend, we must be sure to follow these guidelines. The higher the quality of life we provide, the fewer or less serious problems we will encounter.

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Ortopedia canina

How to choose a dog harness

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If we plan to purchase a harness to help our friend with mobility when walking, we should know that there are various models. Not all are intended for the same purpose. Therefore, depending on what your problem or your specific need is, we will choose one or the other. Here we explain how to choose a harness without making mistakes.

The advantages of using a harness

We have already talked about the therapeutic properties of a harness for dogs. And it is that thanks to its structure, it achieves that when holding the animal we relieve the weight that it carries on its legs. Also, for those cases where there are hip problems, it also helps improve alignment.

As with people, animals also need a recovery process. It is not only important to know how to provide physical support, but also emotional support. By choosing a harness for dogs, we are offering them the help they need to regain their health and vital energy.

For this reason, and for you to choose the right one, we want to explain the differences that exist when choosing a harness for dogs. However, if you have doubts, you can always contact us and we will help you find the one that best suits the animal’s problem.

Choosing a dog harness

As a general rule, the purpose of these is to improve mobility and offer help when getting up, walking or climbing stairs. All of them activities of some difficulty when there is an injury. We can choose a harness among those detailed below.

Harness for hind legs compatible

We can choose a harness of this type if we want to help walking and getting up. It is especially suitable when there are neurological problems, spinal problems and lameness or weakness in the hind legs. Also in cases of osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia. It is also possible to combine it with an integral wheelchair.

We must use it only when walking or moving the dog. It can be annoying if we leave it on for a long time. It is very easy to use since the legs are inserted and it is held on the hip.

Web Master Harness

If our friend has suffered a previous limb amputation or shows weakness in them, we can choose a harness like this one. Unlike other models, this one has a built-in strap under the back. In this way, it will not slide forward in the area of the amputated limb. It also allows us to comfortably lift the animal to overcome obstacles.

If we want to leave it on for a long period, there will be no problem choosing a harness like this. It is made from fabrics that prevent chafing and allow ventilation.

full harness

If our dog is elderly or suffers from osteoarthritis, we can choose an integral harness. They offer support in the front and back, which helps to balance the weight well. In addition, it allows them to maintain control of the body in different situations. Not only is it a perfect complement to help the animal recover, but it also prevents injuries to owners when carrying them.

Although there are other variants, these are the three main types of harnesses that we can find. Choosing a suitable harness is essential to help the dog regain mobility or to provide support. You can check here what we have available and contact us for more information.

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Ortopedia canina

Winter care for dogs

During the cold seasons, we must take extra precautions and take extreme care of our furry friends. Especially with those dogs that suffer from certain pathologies or that are in a vulnerable state. We leave you the winter care for dogs that you cannot skip.

How does the cold affect dogs?

Although dogs usually have thick fur that protects them from the cold, it is not the same for all breeds, nor is it sufficient for all ages and states. Thus, depending on the age of our friend and his state of health and physical condition, he will suffer to a greater or lesser extent the consequences of the drop in temperatures.

With the winter care for dogs that we propose, you will not only keep their health in good condition. But we will also prevent complications from existing pathologies from appearing. As well as worsening or other problems derived from the cold.

Those dogs with whom we must especially take care of in winter are puppies , older dogs , small breeds and those with little fur . While they may be in good health, they are often more vulnerable to inclement weather .

Winter care that we must keep in mind

Animals suffer from the cold just as people do, except in the case of the Nordic races . For this reason, we leave you these care in winter so that you take them into account with your furry friends.

Follow a balanced and nutritious diet

If we want dogs to stay healthy, we must take care of their diet . Although it is a measure to be taken throughout the year, they are very basic care in winter. It is through food that we manage to increase our defenses, and these are the ones that will protect us from diseases. Especially in the cold season.

During these months, physical activity may be reduced. However, in order to stay warm, your body will need to burn more calories. If you notice changes in his feeding behavior, consult a veterinarian , as it may be necessary to adjust the amount of food he eats.

Keep him warm on walks

Whether our dog spends a lot of time outside, or if it is only when it comes to walks, we must keep them warm . This is the second point in care in winter, since the wind, rain and cold can make them sick.

Especially in those dogs that suffer from pathologies that hinder or prevent their mobility, we must protect their extremities. Reduced movement causes the temperature in those parts of the body to drop, affecting your overall health . At Ortocanis we have coats like this one available.

take care of his fur

The last of the winter care for our dogs refers to the coat. This fulfills an important function, and that is to protect your skin from external aggressions, including the cold. In addition to avoiding cuts at this time of year, we must brush it to keep it in good condition.

When it’s time for them to take a bath, we must do it indoors, without drafts and with warm water. We must also use a hair dryer so that they do not remain with moisture in the fur.

With these cares in winter we will make our dog suffer less from the cold. A simple way to protect them and keep diseases at bay .

Dog care in winter

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Ortopedia canina

Nutritional advice to prevent diseases in dogs

Some pathologies in dogs are due to birth defects or problems associated with a particular breed. However, with others we can reduce the chances of them appearing if we take care of the animal’s diet. With these nutritional tips it is possible to improve the general health of dogs.

diseases in dogs

Just as it happens to us humans, dogs or any other animal are susceptible to getting sick. Bad habits, such as lack of exercise, or an incomplete or inadequate diet, can accelerate or promote the appearance of certain pathologies .

Therefore, it is convenient to pay attention to these nutritional tips. Since the needs of dogs differ from those of humans. Thus, we will avoid giving them substances that may be toxic to them, and at the same time we will ensure that they obtain all the nutrients for their correct development.

Consejos nutricionales para prevenir enfermedades en los perros

Nutritional advice to reduce diseases

Offering our friend the contributions he needs through food is a way to lengthen his life. These simple nutritional tips will be of great help if you want to maintain or improve your health.

Vitamins and minerals

The amounts of vitamins and minerals that dogs need is already included in the specific foods for them. However, we must know how to choose those that are suitable. Some low quality or private label feeds contain mainly animal by-products. Therefore, the nutritional contribution will not be the same as if we choose foods from the best range.

These nutritional tips related to vitamins are also similar to those recommended for humans. A diet based on fast or precooked food will lack the vitamins and minerals that fresh vegetables or fish would have. If necessary, there are also vitamin complexes for dogs. Vitamins A, C, D3 and E are especially important for them.

healthy fatty acids

The second of the nutritional tips refers to healthy fatty acids. Although fats are related to obesity problems and the appearance of diseases, some types are essential for the proper functioning of the body.

Foods rich in Omega 3, such as sardines, tuna, salmon or spinach are rich in it and help us prevent diseases such as tumors. We can choose feed containing these foods or supply them directly.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are a type of antioxidant of plant origin, and therefore found in fruits and vegetables. Thanks to its properties, they prevent premature aging and reduce the development of cancer cells. Grape seed extract, green tea extract, and quercetin are examples.

Amino acids

The following nutritional advice refers to amino acids such as melatonin or arginine. It is also about antioxidants that prevent the appearance of tumors. We find them in meat, fish, eggs and cereals. It is worth mentioning again the importance of the quality of the feed we choose. If we want them to contain these contributions, they must be of good quality.

Following these nutritional tips is very simple. It is enough to choose quality foods and offer a rich and varied diet, as well as free of those substances that may be toxic to them. If we want to avoid or delay the onset of diseases, we must take care of our diet.

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Ortocanis

New US law requires dog stores to sell animals rescued from shelters.

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From the state of California comes news that turns the market for the sale of animals upside down.

Fábrica de cachorros

Effective January 1, 2019, AB 485 prohibits stores from selling to dogs, cats and rabbits that do not come from a shelter. Any business that violates this law will face fines of $500. Perhaps it is not strict enough but it is a good start.
We would like it to be the beginning of the end of the so-called “puppy factories”, businesses that are dedicated to the breeding of animals whose main objective is to obtain an economic benefit. The conditions in which animals live in these types of facilities are precarious and cruel.
Ley perro LucyIn the United Kingdom, the ” Lucy law ” was passed, a law that prohibited the sale of puppies in this type of establishment. The name receives it in honor of a puppy of the Cavalier King Charles Spanier breed that was rescued in 2013 from a puppy farm. The little girl spent much of her life in a cage that prevented her from growing properly, for which her hips ended up fusing, causing a complicated malformation. The case shocked the United Kingdom thanks to an activist who managed to save Lucy and denounced the mistreatment that animals receive in this type of company.
We are aware that animals will only benefit if their sale is banned, but this is a small, big step to stop puppy mills. Buyers must be made aware that what they have in their hands is a life and that the purchase of pets in farms means financially benefiting businesses that promote animal abuse.
From Ortocanis we wish that more governments follow this clear example of respect for animals.
sofia gonzalez
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