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THE BICHON FRISE
The Bichon Frise, also known as the Tenerife Bichon, originated from France. It belongs to the UKC; Non Sporting Group, and has been around since the 14th century. It is thought that the Bichon first arrived in Tenerife with Italian traders who traded their dogs for goods.
Brief History
The Bichon Frise was bred in the Mediterranean region during the Middle Ages. It was named the Tenerife Bichon, and was a favorite among the French nobility during the 1500’s. By the 1800s, the Bichon was a popular companion dog in France, and was also used for circus performances.
The Bichon arrived in the U.S in the mid-twentieth century. During the 20th century, the Bichon faced difficult times during both wars, and became less popular. The Bichon became popular again when the breed was recognized in 1933 under the “Society Central Canine as the “Bichon with the curly hair.” In 1964, the Bichon Frise Club was formed in the U.S. The AKC accepted the Bichon in 1971 under the miscellaneous class, and in 1973 as a Non-Sporting Group.
Physical Features
The Bichon Frise is a small and sturdy dog. The Bichon has a rounded skull, with a short muzzle, and a strong lower jaw. With curious rounded dark brown or black eyes, the Bichon has high-set drop ears that are set forward on its head. This breed carries a medium-length plumed tail that curls over its back.
Bichons have double-coats with a very soft undercoat, and a medium-length outercoat. They have lots of hair on the head, beard, mustache, ears and tail. The coloring of this dog breed is white, but the Bichon can also be found with a buff, cream, or apricot color around ears and body.
Average Height:
9.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
10-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Bichon is gentle and affectionate. This breed is always cheerful and playful, and makes for a great companion dog. The Bichon has a positive attitude, but may be difficult to housebreak. Positive dog training and early socialization is recommended. Bichons are good with children, and need to be around family. They enjoy daily trips in the car, and love sitting on your lap when out and about. They are also very easy to manage in restaurants, or when out shopping.
Special Needs
The Bichon is prone to weight problems, and should be kept at the correct weight. Avoid feeding bits from the dinner table. It’s hard to resist the affectionate Bichon begging at the dinner table, but be sure to feed only healthy foods. Bichons need regular grooming, socialization and housetraining.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bichon is an active and healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Autoimmune Disease refers to the abnormal functioning of the immune system. The Bichon may be predisposed to this. Consult with your veterinarian for more advice.
Bladder Problems. Some Bichons may be predisposed to urinary stones (uroliths). The best way to try and prevent this is to always supply lots of fresh water. The most common uroliths found in the Bichon Frise is the magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) and calcium oxalate uroliths. Medical, dietary, and surgical options are three options that your vet will discuss with you.
Eye Diseases that are common in Bichons include Cataracts, Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, SARDS, Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA, Glaucoma, and Keratitis Sicca. Consult with your veterinarian for ophthalmic care.
Luxating Patellas. This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Dental Problems. The Bichon Frise needs proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing, which will help prevent gum disease, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Exercise
The Bichon Frise needs daily exercise every day to stay fit, and to not pick up weight. This breed enjoys being indoors with their pet parent, and is such an easy keeper. Additionally, this breed is moderately active meaning that daily walks suffice, though dog park visits are always welcome. Bichon’s love quality time with their pet parent, so be sure to take them on your adventures when possible!
Nutrition
Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and short breed. The Bichon picks up weight very easily, and can get to be obese rather fast. Feed a complete and balanced food for the appropriate life stage of your Bichon. Always consult with your veterinarian if your dog develops food allergies, and needs a change of diet.
Grooming
The Bichon has a wonderful coat that needs to be maintained daily. Bichons suffer from sensitive eyes, and the hair close to the eyes will need to be trimmed regularly. The Bichon should be bathed once a week, and tends to enjoy a visit to the groomers. Most Bichon pet parents find it easier to take their Bichons to a professional groomer every 4 weeks. This is a hypoallergenic dog breed, and suits pet parents that suffer from allergies.
Ears also need to be checked often for signs of infection. As usual, teeth need to be brushed daily, and a twice yearly dental cleaning at the vet is recommended to prevent dental disease.
Bichons are a popular dog breed to adopt. These pups enjoy apartment living, and are easy to keep. With its gentle demeanor and playful nature, the Bichon does not bark a lot and gets along with everyone they encounter.
THE LHASA APSO
The Lhasa Apso, also known as the Apso Seng Kye (bark lion dog), originated from Tibet thousands of years ago. It is part of the UKC, Companion Dog Group, and the AKC’s Non-Sporting Dog Group.
Brief History
The Lhasa Apso were used as guard dogs in monasteries and Buddhist temples in Tibet. The Lhasa has been associated with the Dalai Lama for centuries and was offered as a gift by the 14th Dalai Lama to the U.S in 1933. Lhasa is a sacred city in Tibet. Apso means a “longhaired dog.”
Physical Features
The Lhasa Apso is small, yet feisty. They have a medium-length muzzle, dark brown eyes and a black nose. With ears that are pendant, and catlike feet, the Lhasa carries their tails over its back. Their tails also have a kink at the end.
This breed has lots of long hair and also has a beard. Their coats come in any color, and is heavy, straight, and long. The hair is parted centrally from the head to the tail.
Average Height:
10-11 inches
Average Weight:
14-15 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Lhasa Apso is watchful, yet can be friendly. This dog breed is affectionate with family, and enjoys human company. It may be wary of strangers, and sometimes children. This is a happy dog breed that thrives on being pampered. This dog breed should begin with socialization and positive puppy training early on during puppyhood.
The Lhasa is quick to learn, but needs plenty of rewards to become motivated. This breed does not do well with harsh reprimands or long periods of training. They need to be positively trained with short training sessions to maintain focus and enthusiasm. Quite willful, yet sensitive and playful, the Lhasa bonds very closely to his dog parents and will sulk if left behind.
Lhasa Apso
Special Needs
The Lhasa Apso needs plenty of attention and regular exercise. This breed does well with a dog parent that is nurturing and understanding. This breed needs to be careful when climbing stairs, so as not to injure their backs. The Lhasa adores being pampered 24/7, in fact, they often demand it!
Possible Health Concerns
Hereditary Renal Disease: Hereditary renal disease in the Lhasa is common. Kidney malformations are called dysplasias, and occur when the kidneys do not develop properly before birth. When the kidneys are too small, this is called hypoplasia. This can occur in one or both kidneys. Kidneys will be pale, small, and firm. Symptoms include excessive thirst and excessive urination.
Cherry Eye. (Prolapsed Nictitans Gland) This is the inflammation of the Harderian gland, which is an accessory tear gland. This can result in dry eye. It is common in young dogs, and certain dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. With this disorder, the gland of the nictitating membrane thickens and slips out of its proper place. When this disorder becomes severe, the red glandular mass swells and protrudes over the edge of the membrane, hence the name “cherry eye.”
Skin Allergies: Lhasa’s may be prone to Atopic Dermatitis. This is caused by an abnormal immune system response. There are many allergies which can affect the skin, and are caused by fleas, dog food and other allergens like pollen in the air. Consult with your veterinarian if your Lhasa suffers from intense itching.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of the light- sensitive cells.
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint in dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Patellar Luxation: This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella).X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Exercise
All dogs need exercise, some more so than others! The Lhasa Apso dog breed is one that does well with fun exercise schedules. Off-leash runs at the dog park or beach work wonders to keep your pooch calm and focused. Combining that with positive training classes, allows for your Lhasa to be happy and healthy.
Grooming
The Lhasa Apso has a long coat that will need to be maintained to prevent matting. It’s best with this breed to opt for a professional clipping. Daily grooming is necessary to maintain coat and skin health. It also promotes new hair growth. Try finishing sprays and dry canine shampoos as well.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned weekly and checked for sensitivity. Nails trimmed as needed. Your Lhasa will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year.
The feisty and stubborn Lhasa Apso adapts easily to any home. Although they may look like couch potatoes, this dog breed needs exercise and mental stimulation. The Lhasa does well in home environments that will pamper them. This dog breed needs a firm dog parent, and consistent housetraining with lots of fun canine sports that the entire family can partake in.
Pet Adoption: Important Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Pet
Family pets can be procured from several sources including purchasing a pet from a pet store or a private breeder. One can also adopt a pet from an animal shelter, pet adoption center or rescue organization. Families who choose to add a pet are well advised to first seek out a perfect match from a local animal shelter or pet adoption center. Historically, animal shelters have been given a bad reputation in the discussion of where to find the perfect pet. Those myths are dated and have been largely dispelled at most municipal government animal shelters, foundation supported shelters and adoption centers. Many shelters today have full time veterinary services, so pets are examined and receive the necessary treatments as soon as they are admitted to the shelters and before the adoption process begins. There is usually a 3 to 4 day waiting period to check the health, disposition and adoptability of a specific animal before it is placed up for adoption. This is a standard procedure unless a pet is brought in by his or her owner to be put up for adoption. Typically, animals must be given vaccinations, be cleaned, groomed and spayed or neutered before they are allowed to be taken from the shelter for adoption. Additionally, most shelters require an identification microchip be inserted under the skin as a form of permanent identification. It’s possible to place a “hold” on a specific pet, while he or she undergoes the necessary preparations for adoption. Of course, payment for adoption fees must be settled before the animal is taken from the adoption center.
Are Human Shampoos Safe for Pets?
Do your dog’s feet smell like Fritos? Does your cat have litter clinging to his legs? These are signs your furry friend needs a bath.
Preparing Your Pets for Winter
Winter storm Cato is heading up the east coast, and is expected to bring the first snow fall of the season to many cities. These conditions give us pause to consider the preparation for and well-being of our pets during these times of extreme weather. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. They should be kept inside. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs are more tolerant of cold weather, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing weather.
THE JAPANESE CHIN
The Japanese Chin dog breed
The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is aptly named after its country of possible origin. It is part of the UKC, companion Group, and the AKC, Toy Group. Despite its name, some believe the Japanese Chin actually came from China as a gift from a Chinese emperor. Historically, the breed was very popular with the Japanese nobility.
Brief History
The Japanese Chin’s origin is of question. Some believe this breed came from Korea, while others say that it originated from China. There were Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors, as well as European merchants that were credited for bringing the Japanese Chin to Japan, approximately 500 to 1000 years ago. The Japanese nobles then improved on this small breed. In 1854 the Chin was introduced to the west when Japan opened for trade after 200 years of isolation.
Physical Features
The Japanese Chin is a small, square-shaped and well-balanced dog breed with a large, round head. Japanese Chins have large, warm brown eyes that are often emotive. It has a short, broad, muzzle with a black nose, open nostrils and small v-shaped drop ears. This breed looks aristocratic and has a very unique expression. Its famous tail is plumed and carried over the back. They tend to have very curious and alert facial expressions. Their coats are thick, single, and silky with a heavily coated rump area. The coat color typically ranges from black and white, to black and white with tan characteristics, or red and white. Occasionally they can have tan or red spots over the eye area, inside ears, and on their cheeks.
Average Height:
8-11 inches
Average Weight:
4-11 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
The Japanese Chin has a good memory. This very intelligent dog breed is sensitive and mild-mannered. They typically get along with everyone — dogs, animals and children. They can be initially shy with strangers, but affectionate with immediate family and once they get to know a new person. Above all, the Japanese Chin enjoys being pampered. This breed does not do well if isolated from family during the holidays. The Chin is easy to train, though has bursts of stubbornness at times. The Chin needs to start socialization during the first four weeks of life and positive dog training early on to overcome stubborn habits. Male Chins may have some housebreaking issues, but these are resolved easily with consistency and regular positive training.
Special Needs
The Japanese Chin is a low maintenance dog. That said, the long silky coat needs plenty of care. The Chin does well with all dogs, children, and people. This breed can only benefit from positive dog training classes to help prevent stubbornness. They’re usually independent, loyal and devoted to family. The Chin has some cat-like qualities and may be shy and reserved. This is a sensitive dog breed.
Positive training for the Chin needs to be consistent, yet one needs to take into consideration the sensitivity and intelligence of this breed and not break their spirit with unnecessary harsh reprimands. Dog training needs to mold the needs of this dog breed in a positive way so as not to break his quirkiness. Attentive pet parents are usually recommended. Socialization, as with all dog breeds should start during the first four weeks.
One quirk: Japanese Chins tend to be afraid of thunderstorms. Vets usually recommend “relax and recover shirts” to provide therapeutic pressure to help dogs feel secure and calm during thunderstorms or times of stress. Use of calming essential oils with the use of Calm Paws Calming Disks work well. Thundershirts, another anxiety wrap, also provides gentle, constant pressure to help dogs deal with stress during travel, separation anxiety, storm phobia and other every day stresses that your Chin may have to deal with.
Possible Health Concerns
Luxating Patella: The Japanese Chin may be predisposed to this condition. This occurs when the patella slips out of the trochlear groove and causes lameness. The kneecap ends up being displaced towards the midline of the dog’s body.
GM2 Gangliosidosis: This is a recessive hereditary diseae. This disease was also called Tay Sachs disease or Sandhoff’s disease. It involves lysosomal storage, and is fatal. Symptoms include loss of coordination, head shaking, mental dullness and weakness.
Cardiac Diseases. Inherited cardiac diseases in the Chins like subaortic stenosis and cardiomyopathies are congenital (present at birth). Some symptoms may include heart murmurs resulting in exercise intolerance, and possible congestive heart failure. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Epilepsy results in seizures that can be caused by numerous conditions. Some of these include low blood sugar, brain tumor, heat stroke, nutritional deficiencies, poisons or toxins, and distemper. Inherited epilepsy in the Chin has been showing up a lot in this gene pool. Environmental hazards are also to blame.
Cataracts: This is a condition where the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency. This often results in blindness.
The Japanese Chin dog
Exercise
The Japanese Chin needs regular exercise and lots of fun play time. This dog breed has bursts of energy and does well with frequent short walks, trips to the dog park and playing ball. The more regular the exercise, the better their overall disposition will be. This is not a dog to leave alone all day. The Chin will get agitated and lonely. Plenty of socialization is needed during puppyhood so that this dog breed has no problems with other dogs later on.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended for the Chin. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and spirited breed. Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Ask your veterinarian to help you.
The Japanese Chin
Grooming
The Japanese Chin has a very long and silky coat. This breed needs to be brushed every day to remove loose hair and dirt. This also helps to prevent matts and tangles which can be worked through with a slicker brush or metal comb. Using natural spritzes and conditioners will make grooming easier.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned regularly and checked for sensitivity. Trim nails as needed. Your Japanese Chin will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. If you’re using a professional groomer, be sure to check references. Chins are a small dog breed that need to be treated gently and enjoy lots of positive reinforcements like healthy dog treats. These can be used to reward your Chin when he behaves during a nail trim.
This dog breed enjoys the comforting scent of people, most especially family, including children. This mild-mannered and sensitive dog breed needs time to adjust to new surroundings.
THE CHARTREUX CAT
Chartreux cat
The Chartreux is a rare cat breed from France with a thick blue coat. It’s a domestic cat breed that was first discussed in a poem in 1558. There were plenty of free-roaming cats like the Chartreux that roamed the streets of Paris and were ratters in shops and homes. After WW1, cat fanciers took interest in this cat breed, and a breed standard for the Chartreux was formed. By 1928 and 1931, this cat breed was showing in Europe.
Brief History
The Chartreux almost disappeared after WWII, but cat breeders banded together to save it from extinction. In 1971, the first Chartreux arrived in the U.S. Helen and John Gamon from California, imported the first Chartreux into the U.S. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) promoted this breed to showing. By 2007, there were less than two dozen Chartreux cat breeders in North America.
Physical Features
With a strong and powerful body, the Chartreux has a short, thick waterproof blueish-grey coat. Their eyes are orange and their heads are round with full, adorable cheeks. Because of this, they always look like they are smiling. Their ears are medium-sized and their legs are relatively short with medium-sized paws.
Average Height:
9-11 inches
Average Weight:
9-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
Some Chartreux cats are actually mute, but don’t let that fool you. They’re extremely intelligent and inquisitive. They’re known for opening door latches, drawers and even navigating a confusing screen door. The Chartreux does well with family, strangers, other pets, and children. Chartreux kittens are active and playful. Senior cats tend to enjoy watching, and are much less active. This cat breed is perfect for either apartment or farm living. They are quiet cats that enjoy interactive play. The Chartreux enjoys playing with anything that is lying around, and is playful when there is someone to play with. This wonderful cat breed is very easy to live with. The Chartreux needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation.
Chartreux
Special Needs
Chartreux cats are rarely vocal, so extra attention is needed to make sure they are getting all the care they need.
Possible Health Concerns
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease.
Ringworm: This is an infection of the skin, hair, or claws, and is caused by a fungus called dermatophyte. This occurs in 98% of cats. It spreads easily from cats to people.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. This results in the walls becoming stiffer. This is a common heart disease in cats. It tends to get noticed at around 3 months to 17 years of age. Most cats will be middle aged when this disorder occurs. This disorder tends to affect males more than females, and it is an inherited genetic defect.
Gingivitis: This is when the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque. At this stage the ligaments and bone are not infected. Gum color in cats will change from a light pink to red or purple. The gum edge wills well. Symptoms include bleeding and bad breath. This can be reversed with proper teeth cleaning.
Exercise
This cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. Finding a variety of mentally stimulating cat toys will allow for your cat to lead a well-balanced life, with the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation.
Grooming
All cat breeds will groom themselves several times throughout the day. Daily grooming is necessary because it limits the amount of hair that your cat will consume. This helps limit the development of hairballs.
Daily cleaning with pet wipes beneath the tail is necessary. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity. If there is a buildup of wax and dirt, organisms can lead to an ear infection. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes. Cats should also have their teeth brushed a few times a week with a special feline toothpaste and brush.
The Chartreux is an active, yet relaxed cat breed that needs lots of playtime. This is not a cat breed that enjoys being alone all day. The Chartreux enjoys being around other cat friendly animals, and gentle humans.
Chartreux cat breed
Veterinarians Guide to Fleas and Ticks for Pet Owners
Everything You Need to Know About Fleas and Ticks
As any pet owner will tell you, our lovable balls of fluff are prone to bringing unwanted friends of their own home; namely fleas and ticks.
These common critters can find their way on to dogs, cats and even humans – sometimes with nasty consequences.
So, what can be done to treat these bloodsucking mites and how can you prevent them in the first place?
Fleas – what are they?
Fleas are small, wingless parasites that can feed on your pet’s blood. Cat fleas for instance are dark brown and 1-2mm long. They are often picked up outdoors, and there are over 2,000 different types in the word. Adept at jumping, they are easy to pass on to other animals, as well as owners. They can be picked up anywhere, from other pets, kennels and even from the great outdoors. They can be more common in warmer months, but exist all year round.
Ticks – what are they?
Ticks are tiny blood-suckers with a spider-like appearance. They have eight legs and can range from 1mm to 1cm in size. They are typically fond of woodland and grassy areas, where they latch on to your pet. They are known for transmitting bacterial diseases, the most common of which is Lyme Disease, borne from black-legged ticks. Much like fleas, they are more common in the warmer months, but present all-year round.
How can you prevent fleas and ticks?
The first measure is to protect your pets.
If you live in a house with a large unkempt yard, try and cut back the grass, which attracts these insects. Where possible, use flea spray to prevent any outbreaks, too. While indoors, pay attention to areas where ticks and fleas can thrive; on carpets and rugs – thorough vacuuming will help keep this at bay.
Secondly, make sure your pet’s bedding area is well cleaned. Anything that could attract unwanted visitors should be cleaned or thrown away. Where possible, deep clean toys in hot water regularly, to kill any lingering bugs.
Finally, there are many treatments on the market that you can use on your pets. Not just when they are infected, but as a preventative measure. From flea combs to sprays, along with regular brushing of their coats, to reduce pests from growing. If your pet has long hair, you may want to keep this short, particularly in the warmer weather, so it is less of a breeding ground for pests.
Flea and tick collars are worthwhile solutions to help repel fleas away using chemicals that are safe for your dogs and cats. These can be picked up in most vet clinics, drug stores and pet stores, and are inexpensive.
Signs of fleas and ticks
Scratching, writing and over grooming are common signs that your pet may be housing fleas or ticks. Sometimes these can be visible to the human eye, particularly during grooming, but not always. Therefore, if you suspect that your beloved cat or dog is infected, you may want to take them to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If you experience a continual itching and bites in succession, or believe that you have been bitten by a tick (sometimes the tick is still visible in the skin), see a professional caregiver immediately.
Treating fleas and ticks
The good news is that these bugs are easy to treat, in many forms, from powders to medicated shampoos. In the first instance, visit your veterinarian. It’s also vital to ensure that you do not use the same treatment on your dog, as your cat, as in some cases these are known to be toxic to felines. Therefore, always seek professional guidance before treatment.
You will also need to consider treating your house, from upholstery to carpets, and bedding. Anti-flea and anti-tick treatments are commonly available.
