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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.

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.

20/03/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Care of a dog that has had a leg amputation

Animal welfare, injuries, most commented

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.

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.

13/03/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Keys to a dog’s well-being

Animal welfare

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.

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.

06/03/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

How to choose a dog harness

Animal welfare, Sports

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.

28/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Cold in dogs: how to identify it and what to do to relieve its symptoms

Pathologies

Not only humans get colds. Animals can also catch colds. Among them, the dogs. And practically for the same reasons that we humans catch them: a cold, a wetness, a sharp and sudden change in temperature, exposure to viruses, etc. The cold in dogs , in addition to being uncomfortable, causes various discomforts to animals. That is why it is important to be vigilant when they begin to show symptoms.

You also have to make sure not to confuse it with one of the most common and dangerous diseases for dogs: distemper . In principle, when the first symptoms appear, you can get confused. For this reason, it is important to go to the veterinarian as soon as the animal begins to show signs of not feeling very well. A cold, unlike distemper, is a mild illness that usually goes away in a week or two. As long as the animal is properly cared for

Cold in dogs: main symptoms

When a dog catches a cold, it begins to show symptoms very soon. Among the main ones, some that may sound familiar to many. Sneezing , congestion , watery eyes, some cough, runny nose , little desire to eat, etc. You may also have a fever, and you won’t feel too well. These symptoms can last between one and two weeks , and must be monitored so that the cold in dogs does not become something more serious.

If the dog is observed to have difficulty breathing or a fever , it is advisable to go to the vet immediately . The same if when breathing you hear a whistling sound. The specialist will examine the animal and decide if they are complications of the cold or some more serious pathology that requires specialized treatment.

The care that a cold dog requires

As such, the cold in dogs does not have a specific treatment. Only its symptoms can be relieved . In general, try to make it comfortable and warm . And provide a balanced diet. He may not have much of an appetite, so it’s wise to put something he particularly likes within his reach. And try to have a bed to rest as comfortable as possible . Like this one, which, as it is also made of thermal fabric, will provide you with warmth that will alleviate your discomfort.

The fact that the dog has a cold does not mean that it should not go outside. Of course, with shorter walks . You should also avoid taking him out during the coldest hours of the day. On the other hand, even if he is not hungry, you have to try to make him drink liquid , even if it is little. In this case, do it several times. This will help you reduce and expel mucus. It is also important, if there is more than one dog at home, to separate the one with a cold from the others . This way you will avoid infections.

In general, do not medicate the dog without the opinion of a veterinarian. If the cold is mild and there are no complications , he will not prescribe anything beyond a syrup or simply an extra vitamin C. He may also recommend some home remedy to relieve him. But nothing more. In a week or two, the dog should be fit again and without a trace of the cold.

20/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

What to do with a dog that drags its knuckles when walking

Pathologies, Treatments

The way dogs walk can be affected by numerous ailments. They can walk poorly due to joint problems, or because a foreign object has stuck in them. These changes in the way of walking serve to detect various pathologies that have no other external manifestation. For example, when faced with a dog that drags its knuckles , it can be suspected that it suffers from some ailment related to the sciatic nerve.

Generally, this phenomenon usually occurs in the hind legs of the dog. It can happen in one of the legs or in both. And although it does not prevent him from walking, it does make it difficult for him to walk . Also, you will hurt your paw and feel pain if you walk for a long time.

Why does a dog drag his knuckles when walking?

The reasons why a dog drags his knuckles when walking can be very varied. This problem may be due, for example, to problems in the animal’s sciatic nerve . But it can also be due to spinal injury , myeloplasia , or degenerative myelopathy .

In any case, it is important to go to the vet as soon as it is detected , so that it can be diagnosed correctly and find a solution. Otherwise, in addition to the damage you may already have in your lower back or spine, it will also damage your legs.

What to do to correct knuckle drag

The first thing to try to avoid this is, as we have mentioned, go to the vet. Faced with a dog that drags its knuckles when walking, the specialist will recommend treatment after diagnosis. This may be corrective or, if the animal has a degenerative disease, palliative. In the latter case, the aim will not be to correct the problem, but rather to provide the animal with the best possible quality of life .

In addition to the medication or the precautions to be taken, the veterinarian will recommend various guidelines so that the dog is as comfortable as possible. Among them, when the animal is at home it has a comfortable place to lie down . And one that can be easily lifted . By bending your knuckles, you may have a hard time getting up, because your grip will fail. Therefore, in addition to falling, the affected leg can be injured.

Apart from this, the new proprioceptive corrector can also be placed on the affected leg. This corrector will support the knuckles and fingers of the affected leg so that you can support it correctly. With it, the animal will have adequate tension at the necessary points to prevent the knuckles from bending. You can rest your paw on the pads normally.

Of course, this type of correctors cannot be worn indefinitely. In general, as the veterinarian will advise, the ideal is that they should be worn for a short period of time at first. For example, 15 minutes . Then you can gradually increase the time that the animal can carry it. Of course, in no case is it recommended to wear it for more than two hours . And in case you have to carry it for so long, it is advisable to protect the leg with a special boot .

13/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Winter care for dogs

Animal welfare

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 .

08/02/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Distemper in dogs and its treatment

What is distemper in dogs and how is it spread?

The RNA virus, belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, is the cause of one of the most contagious and dangerous diseases. Better known as distemper in dogs, it is contracted by direct contact with one that is infected. The symptoms do not appear immediately since there is an incubation period between 14 and 18 days beforehand.

Not all strains of distemper in dogs have the same virulence. Therefore, each clinical picture has its own severity and evolution. Replication occurs in the lymphoid tissue, thus causing immunosuppression in the animal. From there it progresses and infects the central nervous system. At this point is when we can observe the weakness in the hind legs.

Distemper in dogs mainly affects puppies between 3 and 6 months of age, as they have a weaker immune system. However, older dogs can also be infected.

Symptoms of distemper in dogs

The initial symptoms of distemper in dogs are very varied, and include rhinitis, mucopurulent discharge, cough, conjunctivitis, vomiting or diarrhea, fever, dehydration, anorexia or weight loss, and pneumonia (due to secondary bacterial infections), among others. others.

When the disease reaches the central nervous system, other types of symptoms appear. These are encephalitis, which is responsible for weakness in the legs, tremors and various paralyzes, as well as convulsions and blindness.

Encephalitis, when it affects adult dogs, can occur in two different ways. In the first place, as multifocal encephalitis, whose main characteristic is incoordination, tilted head, facial paralysis and tremors, as well as the aforementioned weakness in the hind legs. This type of distemper in dogs appears between the ages of 4 and 8, and evolves into paralysis , although they can recover.

Secondly, when it comes to older dogs, that is, older than 6, a visual deficit appears, as well as mental depression, personality changes, tournament and also inability to hold the head. Recovery is complex in these cases.

Treatment of distemper in dogs

There is currently no specific treatment for distemper in dogs. Although there is a way to prevent contagion and that is through vaccination. In the event of contagion, isolation is essential to avoid spreading the disease.

For secondary infections, antibiotics will be administered, and for the specific symptoms of distemper in dogs, anti-inflammatories and antipyretics. There are also medications for seizures. In addition to all this, we will make sure that the animal eats and drinks so as not to become dehydrated.

Regarding the quality of life of the animal, we can help with mobility using specific harnesses , as well as wheelchairs if necessary. If you need advice to choose the right ones, you can contact us.

24/01/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

Nutritional advice to prevent diseases in dogs

Animal welfare

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.

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.

10/01/2019/0 Comments/by Ortopedia canina

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

Animal welfare, Curiosities

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

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.

In 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

ortocanis.com

09/01/2019/0 Comments/by Ortocanis