Fun Fact Friday: Why do dogs 🐕 love to sniff on walks

Fun Fact Friday: Why do dogs 🐕 love to sniff on walks?

●Dogs love to sniff on walks because their sense of smell is incredibly powerful, allowing them to gather detailed information about their environment through scent, essentially "reading" the world around them like we read a book with our eyes; this includes learning about other dogs who have been there, what they ate, and even their mood, all through tiny scent particles left behind - making sniffing a highly stimulating mental exercise that can be as tiring as physical activity; it's like a dog's version of social media!. 

● Dogs have a superpower nose and have up to 300 million scent receptors compared to our 6 million, making their sense of smell significantly more sensitive. 

● By sniffing, dogs can learn about other animals that have been in an area, their gender, and even their emotional state. 

● The process of analyzing smells is a big brain workout for dogs, helping them feel mentally satisfied. 

● Sniffing can release dopamine, a feel-good chemical, contributing to a happier dog. 

● Dogs can use scents to create mental maps of their surroundings, helping them find their way home, especially when they decide to go on an outdoor adventure on their own.

I know a few people, while walking their dog, won't allow the dog to sniff anything. They basically yank up the collar, forcing their dog's head up. This can lead to depression for the dog, as the dog is getting no stimulation in the brain workout. 

So, next time you're out walking your dog, allow your dog to sniff anything and everything, which will stimulate the 🧠 making one happy dog 🐕 

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; WEMT & went through the AHS EAMT Academy. I have been teaching for over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734

Horse Wormer is toxic to your pets

Horse Wormer is toxic to your pets

I bet you never gave it any thought that when you went out to worm your horses, with your dogs tagging along, that the wormer that you’re giving a 800-1,200 horse is actually deadly to your dogs that are running around watching you.

There are two ingredients in equine wormers that are toxic. Moxidectin and Ivermectin. I personally have used wormers that carried both of these ingredients and one day, years ago, when I was getting ready to use it on my horse, Hazi, I was told by my friend to make sure that she completely swallowed the dose and to not allow it to hit the ground since her dogs were around. At first I was a little perplexed about this and then she explained that all it takes is a dog to swallow a small drop of this stuff, which the dog will immediately shows signs and symptoms of toxic poisoning. After taking several Equine classes, including Equine First Aid and Equine Anatomy and Physiology, I now educate my equine clients of this fact. 

Also, even though it’s very rare, a dog that eats horse manure can actually ingest toxic amounts by eating the manure of horses that have recently been dewormed. But, again, it is very rare.

Signs/Symptoms:

● Drooling

● Dilated Pupils

● Ataxia (think of an animal losing balance or acting like it's drunk)

● Trembling

● Seizures

 ● Coma

Death will occur unless you rush your dog/cat to the veterinarian immediately. Do not hesitate at all when dealing with equine worming poisoning. Equine Worming Medication also will poison your barn cats,

How to stay safe:

When deworming your horse, make sure your dogs are out of the pasture, or you make sure that your horse completely swallows the dose. I have seen some horses actually hold it in their mouth until you look away and then spit it out. To ensure that the dose is swallowed, you need to insert the syringe as far back in the mouth as you can, push the plunger, and then stroke the horse’s neck/throat area to ensure that it is completely swallowed. You can also hold the head up to ensure that the dose is swallowed. After dosing, hang out with your horse to make sure he/she isn’t pulling a fast one on you, so he/she will spit it out the moment you walk away.

Be diligent and be safe.

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; EAMT; WEMT & have been teaching over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations. 

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2024-2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734 

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Equine & Pet:

http://www.comfypetsofaz.com

The benefits of neutering your dog

Neutering a male dog can have many benefits, including a reduced risk of cancer, fewer unwanted behaviors, and a longer life. 

Health benefits:

● Prevents testicular cancer: Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer. 

●Reduces prostate disease: Neutering reduces the risk of prostate problems like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). 

●Longer life: Neutering can contribute to a longer and healthier life for your dog. 

Behavior benefits:

●Reduces roaming: Neutering reduces the urge to roam away from home. 

●Reduces unwanted urination: Neutering reduces the urge to mark or spray, especially inside the home. 

●Reduces aggression: Neutering reduces the chance of behaviors such as humping and other undesirable male behaviors. 

Other benefits:

●Prevents unwanted puppies: Neutering eliminates the risk of unwanted puppies. 

●Helps with pet overpopulation: Neutering helps prevent unwanted litters that result in millions of dogs and cats being euthanized each year. 

Fact: When a dog is intact, he is driven by the instinct to mate and breed. He will want to find female dogs in heat, and if he senses one in the area, he will do everything he can to escape from your home or yard and roam. He may run away from home for a long time if this happens.

Most male dogs that end up in the shelter are intact!

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; WEMT & attended the EAMT Academy. I have been teaching for over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Equine & Pet:

http://www.comfypetsofaz.com

January is the National take your dog for a walk month

January is the National Walk Your Dog Month. There are so many benefits for walking your dog, for them as well as for you:

● Exercise: It's a great way to get physical activity for you & your 🐕 

● Building stronger muscles 

● Weight management. 

    ○ a person can burn approximately 80-100 calories per mile

    ○ a 🐕 can burn approximately. 08/lb of body weight per mile

● Joint Health: walking helps preserve yourself and your 🐕 muscle tone.

● Mental Stimulation: Think about all the new sights, smells, and sounds your 🐕 will experience on your walk

● Boredom Reduction: walking can help prevent your 🐕 from becoming bored & destructive. Walking also helps when we just need to get out, enjoy mother nature and the company of our 🐕 

● Bonding: walking is a great way to strengthen your bond with your 🐕 

● Behavior Training: walking can definitely reduce unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking or whining

So, put on your walking 🚶‍♀️ 👞 

Leash your 🐕 

Open the front 🚪 

and just start walking

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; EAMT; WEMT & have been teaching over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Equine & Pet:

http://www.comfypetsofaz.com

Stroke

A stroke, or brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to a portion of the 🧠 is suddenly interrupted. There are several types of strokes:

● Ischemic Stroke (also known as a dry stroke): There is some type of

   blockage in the brain, but no bleeding. 

      ○ my sister had a dry stroke many years ago, and she wasn't sure if

         she was having a heart attack or a stroke. When we arrived at the

         ER, it was very important that I alerted the front desk staff that my

         sister was either having a heart attack or a stroke. She was rushed

         to the back immediately.

● Hemorrhagic Stroke: Brain Bleed

● Transient Ischemic Stroke (TIA): A stroke that lasts only a few

    minutes but can be a precursor to a full-blown stroke later on.

       ○ my mother had 2 TIAs in one year, which is very rare, in 2012. 

          She is on lifetime medication to prevent another attack.

● Brain Stem Stroke: This type of stroke is located at the base of your

    brain stem where the blood supply flow stops.

● Cryptogenic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs due to Ischemia in the

    cerebral part of the 🧠.

Signs & Symptoms:

☆ Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face, arm, or leg, especially

     one side of the body

☆ Confusion, trouble speaking, or trouble understanding 

☆ Trouble seeing in one or both eyes 👀 

☆ Difficulty walking (ataxia--looks drunk), and dizziness 

☆ Severe headache with no known cause

Women may also report:

☆ Hiccups 

☆ Nausea 

☆ Chest pain 

☆ Fatigue 

☆ Shortness of breath 

☆ A racing heartbeat 💓 

Women take three times as long as men because they feel they can manage their symptoms.

If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's imperative that they get to the hospital immediately.

Always remember the Golden Hour. My sister was lucky, as she called me as she was sitting in her truck in her driveway, telling me she wasn't feeling well and didn't know if she was having a heart attack or a stroke. When I arrived at her house (luckily, she lived half a mile from me), I took one look at her and said, "I am driving you to the hospital", even though she wasn't sure if we should go, as it just might be stress. We arrived at the local hospital within that Golden Hour. They were able to begin the treatment before transporting her to a Level 1 hospital.  

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; EAMT; WEMT & have been teaching over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Equine & Pet:

http://www.comfypetsofaz.com

Ibuprofen Toxicity in dogs

You might think that it’s okay to give Ibuprofen to your dog for his/her pain or arthritis. After all it’s okay for us humans, so it must be okay for our dogs, correct? No, actually it’s not. 

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, otherwise known as NSAIDS. These drugs are great for humans in dealing with headaches and pain and cause less upset stomachs such as when taking aspirin. We use NSAIDS to reduce inflammation and pain, which in this case reduces the presence of prostaglandins. When a dog swallows Ibuprofen, blood no longer flows in the kidneys as it should, and the stomach is no longer protected. This is why you will see a lot of blood because the toxicity has caused bleeding stomach ulcers. So, not only does your dog have to deal with stomach ulcers but kidney failure as well.

This is what happens to dogs that eat Ibuprofen

The dog in this picture was taken only after 30 minutes of ingesting IBP

As we keep our house safe of poisons and harmful chemicals from our children, we need to remember to do the same for our pets. That bottle of Ibuprofen that you had left on the counter, after taking a couple of IBP for a headache, before running to work is now left unattended for your curious dog. Yes, it may have a childproof cap, but as we all know, those caps are not foolproof, and a dog can chew the cap off. Ask my dog, Willa. She has eaten a cap right off the bottle. Luckily, I was around when she did.

Signs & Symptoms of IBP Toxicity:

● Vomiting up blood (look at the picture above very carefully & you will see the pool of blood that was vomited within 30 minutes of ingesting the Ibuprofen)

● Diarrhea

● Ataxia (stumbling like being drunk)

● Depression

● Anorexia (not wanting to eat)

● Black tarry stools (darkish-reddish-blackish in color)

When observing any of these signs, it’s imperative that you take your dog to the veterinarian right away. This is another reason to know where your after-hours emergency veterinarian clinics are located near you. The vet will determine the extent of damage by performing blood work and a physical exam. It’s a good idea to take the bottle of IBP with you so you can show the vet the extent of how many pills your dog may have swallowed. 

Treatment (can include):

● Hospitalization

● IV Fluids

● Activated Charcoal (not in all cases) and can only be given if within 2 hours of digestion

● Blood Transfusion, if severely anemic

● Medications

● Additional blood work, after 1-2 days, to test the kidney functions

● Surgery is rare, but it may be necessary to repair and remove the perforation and treat for abdominal infection

Complete kidney failure is very possible and will result in no urine production, and the prognosis, unfortunately, is very grave.

If your dog does survive IBP toxicity and is sent home, most likely you will be asked to feed him/her a bland diet of chicken and rice, for example. You will need to continue monitoring your pet for failure to eat, vomiting, and black tarry tools.

As always, let’s keep our homes safe for our children and pets. Have the numbers of your vet, after-hours emergency veterinarian hospital, and pet poison control center on your refrigerator for easy access.

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; EAMT; WEMT & have been teaching over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes

602-753-6734

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Fun & Not so Fun Facts about Avacados

Fun & Not so Fun Facts about Avacados:

● Avocados have the highest protein content of any fruit, with 4 grams per serving. 

● Avocados have more potassium than bananas, with 975 milligrams per avocado compared to 487 milligrams per banana. 

● A single avocado tree can produce around 60 lbs. of fruit a year. Avocado trees also help prevent erosion and stabilize soil. 

● Avocados are high in fiber and contain vitamins B6, C, E, and K, as well as magnesium, folate, iron, and copper.

Even though Avacados are healthy for us humans, they are toxic to dogs:

● Avacados contain a substance called "persin," a toxin found in all parts of the avocado plant, including its flesh, but is mostly concentrated in the skin & pit.

● Even a small amount can cause tummy upset.

● Larger quantities can cause pancreatitis. 

Signs & Symptoms of Avacado Poisoning in your dog:

■ Vomiting & Diarrhea 

■ Pale gums

■ Shortness of breath 

■ Decreased appetite 

■ Bleeding of the gut

■ Drooling

■ Abdominal pain 

Severe Signs & Symptoms:

■ Seizures 

■ Tremors

■ Coma

■ Heart attack 

If your dog has eaten a lot of Avacados, including the pit, it's important to contact your veterinarian or call the Animal Poison Control Hotline @ 888-426-4435 or 855-764-7661. There is a fee, but it includes all follow-ups with you and your veterinarian. 

My name is Teri Ann, and I offer Human * Equine * Pet CPR & First Aid Training. I am a former EMT; EAMT; WEMT & have been teaching over 13 years.

Learn lifesaving skills by becoming the First Responder for humans and animals...you just may save a life!

We are looking for individuals or businesses to host our classes throughout AZ, or you can attend at one of our locations.

PM us your email address & we'll send you our 2024-2025 Course Catalog offering 24+ classes. Call us at 602-753-6734 For more information or go to our websites:

Human:

http://www.heartsandwounds.com

Equine & Pet:

http://www.comfypetsofaz.com