Your Dogs Dental Health
Keeping your dogs’ teeth clean and in good health is so important for their overall health and long-term wellbeing.
Keeping your dogs’ teeth clean and in good health is so important for their overall health and long-term wellbeing.
What is the difference between Plaque & Tartar? Plaque is a build-up of saliva, food, and bacteria that forms on the teeth, eventually turning into a brown hard substance, known as tartar. Tartar causes damage to the teeth and gums and can lead to gingivitis. The resulting bacteria can enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys, liver, and heart.
Health dangers of a build-up of plaque, tartare, and gum disease. The bacteria that`s formed in an unhealthy mouth can travel via the bloodstream to the heart and circulatory system. This bacteria can cause heart and bowel disease and affect the immune system. There is also the added risk and expense of dogs having to receive a general anaesthetic for teeth cleaning, which is something we want to avoid if possible, particularly when caring for elderly dogs or those with other underlying health complications.
The Dental Hygiene blend has been made to improve oral health, loosen hardened tartar, prevent or greatly slow down the build-up of tartar and plaque, and assist in the maintenance of teeth and gums which is particularly useful in elderly dogs, that perhaps can no longer have a general anaesthetic.
The link to buy Hedgerow Hounds Dental Hygiene Blend is https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/products/dental-hygiene
There is also a blog all about dental hygiene blend here https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/news/dental-hygiene-formula
Other ways to speed up tartar removal and prevent further build-up.
Feeding abrasive size-appropriate recreational raw bones and natural chews.
Toothbrushing or cleaning with a lint cloth
Signs of tooth pain, gum disease, or mouth infection:
Eating less, hesitancy to eat, favouring soft food over hard, dropping food and much slower eating than normal.
Bad breath, red swollen gums, discoloured teeth.
Inability or reluctance to open their mouth.
Blood on gums, bedding, or toys.
Scratching at their face or swelling and heat along the tooth line.
70% of dogs over 3 years of age have some form of dental disease. Small breeds such as toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles, Schnauzers, and the Brachycephalic breeds are particularly prone and in larger breeds, the Greyhound is predisposed to tooth and gum disease.
Hedgerow Hounds makes veterinary-formulated supplements for dogs. The company was founded and is owned by a qualified holistic canine therapist with 30 years of experience in holistic dog care and nutrition.
Dental Hygiene Formula
The dental hygiene formula for dogs has been created to clean tartar and plaque from the teeth and to improve the overall health and hygiene of the mouth and gums. Although this blend’s main aim is to improve oral health there are so many benefits to feeding this supplement for improving all aspects of health and optimal wellbeing.
The dental hygiene formula for dogs has been created to clean tartar and plaque from the teeth and to improve the overall health and hygiene of the mouth and gums. Although this blend’s main aim is to improve oral health there are so many benefits to feeding this supplement for improving all aspects of health and optimal wellbeing.
The blend is made up of ingredients of the highest human-grade food quality.
The Seaweed used is a certified Organic Fucus vesiculosus Seaweed. It is traceable to the precise location of harvest, from remote areas of the British Isles and Nordic region, so you can thoroughly trust the purity and source.
High quality, pollution-free seaweed is highly nutritious and offers your dog the following benefits:
An effective prebiotic, high in antioxidants.
High levels of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, antioxidants & omega fatty acids.
Iodine for optimum thyroid function.
Improves skin, coat, and nail health and loss of pigmentation.
Improved oral health by preventing or aiding in the removal of tartar and plaque formation. Seaweed has antibacterial properties to act against harmful bacteria in the mouth and alongside the other ingredients used greatly aid in disease prevention of teeth and gums.
Fennel is added for its ability to inhibit the build-up of plaque due to its high levels of polyphenols. Fennel can also reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast. It has good levels of manganese, magnesium, Iron, calcium, and fibre. It also helps ease any intestinal gas and aids in digestion.
Oregano has powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial actions. All these properties assist in creating good oral health and helping to ease issues such as gingivitis. Due to Oregano’s high levels of antioxidants, it is also effective at balancing the gut bacteria.
What is it good for? This dental hygiene for dogs has been specifically created with oral health in mind. It can help remove the build-up of plaque and tartar, and create a healthier environment in the mouth so issues are less likely to occur. If your dog has a serious dental issue that requires veterinary intervention the blend can be used afterwards to aid in the prevention of further disease and hopefully eliminate the need for another tooth clean under anaesthetic, which is particularly important when caring for senior dogs or those with other health problems.
How to use: There are several options for using this dental blend depending on the current health of your dogs mouth and the amount of tartar you are aiming to reduce.
As with any new supplement, it is recommended that you gradually introduce the blend over 5 days. If your dog has a visible build-up of tartare, stained teeth, bad breath, and inflamed gums then it is suggested that the suggested amount is fed over the space of approximately 15 weeks, although you may see a marked improvement well before then. All the amounts to feed are dependent on your dog’s body weight and are stated on the labelling of the product.
If your dog already has clean teeth and good oral health and you would like to keep it that way as they age, then the initial “loading” amount over several weeks isn`t necessary. It is suggested that you feed the full amount for 6 weeks and then drop down to half that amount for maintenance. As an example, a 35kg Labrador would have half a teaspoon (approx. 2g of the powder) daily for 6 weeks, after this time the amount given can be halved if required to a quarter teaspoon (1g) for 5-7 days a week.
If at any time you see discolouring of the teeth, the amount can then of course be increased again to the maximum amount of half a teaspoon for that particular body weight. Each dog is an individual and the rate of plaque formation will vary depending on breed, age, diet and lifestyle so initially it may take a little while to find the exact amount that is suited to your dog.
Can I speed up the removal of hard tartar? Yes, you can speed up the process if there is hard tartare or a build-up in certain areas. Abrasive natural chews or size-appropriate recreational raw bones will help lift the tartar. Teeth cleaning with a toothbrush or lint cloth to ease any loosening tartar away. You may find there is often a stained area at the very top of the canine tooth nearest to the gum line which bones and chews can`t reach. This can be removed with a lint cloth or toothbrush once the supplement has been used for a couple of months.
Important message for certain health concerns:
Due to seaweed’s naturally occurring iodine content, it is not suitable for dogs that are undergoing veterinary treatment for hyperthyroidism or on thyroid medication. Also, avoid feeding this blend to pregnant and lactating females until the litter is weaned.
Hedgerow Hounds makes veterinary-formulated supplements for dogs. The company was founded and is owned by a qualified holistic canine therapist with 30 years of experience in holistic dog care and nutrition.
Holistic Dog Care Consultation
A holistic approach is necessary in order to get the whole picture and cover any area that may be influencing the issues the dog is experiencing.
Sometimes we encounter a problem with our dog that requires additional expert help. These can be age-related, caused by anxiety or hyperactivity, dietary or a combination of factors which your dog is struggling with.
Caroline is a qualified canine therapist, with 30 years of experience in holistic healthcare, complementary therapies and feeding a fresh food diet.
These are some of the areas that will be covered in the consultation:
Diet. Is your dog thriving on their current diet, or would they benefit from a few changes?
Exercise. Is the exercise that your dog gets suitable for their age, fitness or mobility?
Holistic Lifestyle. This would include your dog’s daily routine & the things they find challenging.
Medication. If your dog is on medication, this may need to be taken into account, so as not to interfere with its effectiveness.
If you would like to discuss the problems you are experiencing with your dog, then a consultation with Caroline can help put you and your dog back on the right track. The consultation also comes with the option of a bespoke herbal blend and a discount code for use on the shop.
Here is the link: https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/products/consultation
Caroline Hearn
MICHT. IIHHT. Dip.ICAT. ISCP.Dip.Canine Nutrition
Digest and Rest
Digest & Rest is the perfect blend for tummy troubles, managing reflux and to aid in anal gland issues.
What does Digest & Rest help with? Digest & Rest was created to help dogs that suffer from digestive upset, constipation, and nausea. It is also ideal for managing anal gland problems. If your dog has a very sensitive digestion, then this blend is ideal if you are intending to make any changes to the diet and will make any transitions much smoother.
It has a very neutral taste and smell, so it will not be off-putting to even the fussiest dog and can be “hidden” in tasty food for the really suspicious, picky eater.
Here are a list of some of the ingredients in Digest & Rest and why they were specially chosen.
Marshmallow - Marshmallow root contains around 35% mucilage, which is a slippery substance to ease irritation of the mucous membranes. This makes it ideal to soothe an irritated throat, gut discomfort or tummy troubles. It is also invaluable for managing reflux and hunger nausea, which can occur just after eating or in the early hours of the morning when the dog’s stomach is empty. Marshmallows’ strongest affinities are with the digestive system, respiratory and urinary tracts.
Chamomile - Chamomile is chosen for its antispasmodic properties as well stimulating digestion as it is quite bitter tasting. Chamomile is also relaxing, so helps if the upset tummy is caused by an anxious, excitable, stressed mind.
Fennel - Fennel is useful for expelling intestinal gas and helping to ease stomach cramps.
Psyllium husks - Psyllium are husks from the Plantago ovata species. They provide a form of soluble fibre which when in contact with water, forms a soothing gel which passes through the digestive tract. The husks add bulk to the stools and help with constipation, diarrhoea and aids in the correct emptying of anal glands. Psyllium is also a useful prebiotic to encourage good gut bacteria.
How to use: Digest & Rest is a very versatile blend to use and you can adapt it to suit your specific dog’s needs. The measured amount can be added to wet food and stirred in, and for dried food, it is recommended that you add a splash of water to the powder and stir it into a paste before incorporating it into the food.
For supporting nausea. If your main reason for choosing this blend is to support reflux or perhaps your dog is recovering from a cough, there are several ways to use this blend for maximum effect. If the powder is made into a thick paste with a little warm water, this starts to release the mucilage, which will coat the mouth and oesophagus as it is consumed. You can try adding this paste to the food, or alternatively, some dogs benefit from a tiny meal or snack with Digest & Rest shortly before the main meal is given, so experiment with this to see what most benefits your dog. Small snacks could include a raw egg, plain cottage cheese, natural live yoghurt or a splash of goats’ milk.
For support with hunger pukes. Some dogs can experience hunger nausea in the early hours of the morning and may bring up some frothy, slimy vomit or start to retch as they experience an uncomfortable nausea. As long as they are well in themselves and have no other symptoms to suggest something more serious is going on, then feeding a very small meal or snack in the evening, which contains the Digest & Rest, can often ease these symptoms overnight and into the early hours. Small snacks can be those listed above or a tiny portion of their main meal set aside for this purpose.
Happy Customer Review
“Our French bulldog now sleeps all night, without the constant air licking, coughing, retching and regurgitation. I never want to be without Digest & Rest” Happy dog and happy owner.
A beautiful blend of herbs, roots, and seeds specifically to soothe the gut, aid digestion, and help anal gland issues.
All our products are veterinary formulated, but should not be used instead of consulting your vet should your dog have a health problem.
Hedgerow Hounds is owned by a qualified holistic canine therapist with 30 years of experience in healthcare and nutrition, and the blends are formulated by a veterinarian.
The Importance of Water to your Dogs Health
Dogs are made up of around 70% water and it supports every bodily function, without an adequate supply dogs become dehydrated and seriously ill.
In this current hot spell it is even more important to provide a generous amount of clean, fresh water which helps maintain a normal body temperature and to keep the essential electrolyte balance.
Dogs are made up of around 70% water and it supports every bodily function, without an adequate supply dogs become dehydrated and seriously ill.
In this current hot spell it is even more important to provide a generous amount of clean, fresh water which helps maintain a normal body temperature and to keep the essential electrolyte balance.
Water bowls need to be scrubbed clean to remove any saliva which quickly builds up and is an environment for bacteria to grow. Newly poured water in a clean bowl is much more inviting to a dog and will encourage them to drink freely.
As a guide a dog needs 1oz of water per 1lb of body weight. There are certain circumstances in which a dog will need more water such as very hot weather (3-4 times as much), a bitch that is nursing puppies, kibble fed dogs will need more water than dogs fed a moist food, a dog that has a bout of vomiting and diarrhoea and in this heat it is wise to contact your vet as its essential that they maintain their body fluids.
If you have to take your dog out in warm weather then take plenty of water and a water bowl that your dog is familiar with. At shows and competitions there are often bowls left out for dogs to drink from, not only is there a potential risk of infection between the dogs but also many dogs refuse to drink, even when thirsty from a communal bowl which is full of others saliva and who can blame them.
If you leave your dog at home while you go out make sure they have a non spill bowl, a raised bowl on a stand or a second water bowl elsewhere, then should the water get tipped over there is still another source. Fresh water in the garden is also a good idea but remember to bring the bowl in at night or discard the water and scrub clean before allowing the dog to drink from it due to risk of contamination from wildlife and importantly slugs and snails which will visit it over night and possibly be carrying lungworm.
The signs of dehydration are shown as the dog being very listless, dull sunken eyes, dry, tacky gums and nose, absence of or passing very dark urine, unsteady gait or even collapse.
Along with the above symptoms there are a couple of ways of testing for dehydration in your dog. One is to press lightly on the gums and as you remove your finger the pink colour should return with a couple of seconds.
Another way is to lift a fold of skin up between the dogs shoulder blades and then release, the skin should return immediately. If the dog is dehydrated then the skin will slowly return to normal or may even stay upright. Any of these symptoms would require immediate care from a vet for a successful outcome and full recovery of the dog.
For dogs that are not big drinkers you may need to encourage them to take more fluids in hot weather. This can be done by blending ingredients naturally high in moisture and either offering it to them or stirring into their food. This smoothie shown below, using watermelon, lettuce, chard, spinach & berries blended with water, can also be made into a dog friendly ice lolly or frozen into Kongs etc. Bone broth (home made or shop bought) diluted with water can tempt even the fussiest drinker to consume more fluids.
Walking your Dog in Winter
A few top tips for safe Winter walking
Exercising our dogs in Winter can sometimes be a challenge, here are a few top tips to make life easier and safer for your dog.
A frosty start to the day will mean that your dogs muscles are cold from the fall in temperature and also a little stiff from resting all night so will need to gradually limber up before strenuous exercise.
It is really important to give between five and ten minutes lead walking and even more so for seniors and dogs that have had an injury in the past, before letting them off the lead to run. A warm, lengthened muscle is far more prepared for a faster pace and much less prone to injury.
Old or arthritic dogs will benefit from a comfortable, warm coat to wear, this can always be removed if they start to get too warm once they have had a run around.
Be aware that the ground underfoot can change dramatically with a hard frost. The usual muddy track or gateway can become very treacherous and icy or any rutted ground frozen solid. This can cause damage to your dogs paws, joints and muscles should they run over it at speed. Also be careful when there has been snowfall and you are walking in an unfamiliar place as the snow can conceal many hidden dangers underneath. Snow can also bring out the hidden puppy even in the oldest of dogs so putting them on a long line can allow them some freedom to play without the danger of them overdoing it or injuring themselves.
If you have to walk on pavements and grit has either been laid down or spread across from the gritting lorry, then make sure you wash your dogs paws, legs and undercarriage off immediately with luke warm water on returning home, followed by towel drying as they are less likely to lick their legs if they are dry. When the pads are dry a paw balm can be rubbed in to avoid the pads cracking or becoming sore.
Here are 2 natural products that I wouldn’t be without at any time of the year but are particularly useful in Winter. All can be found on the shop.
https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/products/green-clay
https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/products/adore-the-paw-balm
If you walk your dog in the late afternoon or evening then remember to wear some sort of reflective clothing and also something on your dogs collar or harness. There are discs and collars that contain a battery and can be illuminated at the touch of a button. These are useful if you intend to let your dog off the lead, as you can see where the dog is at all times or if you mistime your walk and suddenly find you are walking back in fading light.
Be extremely vigilant of the dangers of anti-freeze, which can either be spilled or sometimes end up in puddles from a passing vehicle. If you are walking in an area where this could be a possibility then keep the dog on a lead and make sure you have a bottle of water and a travel bowl with you for longer walks to avoid the temptation of them drinking from puddles. If you see your dog lick anti-freeze then they need to be taken to the vet immediately as it is extremely poisonous.
If older or arthritic dogs suddenly stop wanting to go out for walks once the weather turns colder then it could well be that they are uncomfortable somewhere in their body and possibly have joint pain which is made worse by the cold, damp weather. Speak to your vet about any medication they are on and also look into feeding a quality joint supplement to help them feel more comfortable. They may only require a very short walk or just a wander around the garden if the weather turns very cold and miserable.
Snuffle mats, Licki mats and interactive toys are fantastic for less mobile dogs and encourage them up out of their beds and to gently move around, easing stiff joints and muscles.
A blog about using Snuffle Mats is here: https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/blog/snufflmats-and-balls
Other blogs which covers injury prevention and managing senior dogs can be found here: https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/news/repetitive-strain-injuries-in-dogs
https://www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk/news/holistic-care-of-senior-dogs
Caroline Hearn MICHT. Dip ICAT. MIAAT
Human, Canine & Equine Sports & Holistic Therapist
www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk
BODY WRAPS & PRESSURE VESTS
Pressure vests and elasticated body wraps have been in use for many years to assist anxious and fearful dogs and to aid recovery after surgery, injury and neurological conditions.
Caroline Hearn – MICHT. Dip ICAT Dip MLD
Sports, Remedial & Holistic Massage Therapist
Pressure vests and elasticated body wraps have been in use for many years to assist anxious and fearful dogs and to aid recovery after surgery, injury and neurological conditions.
The effects of the body wraps and the vests work in slightly different ways depending on their purpose of use and what results we are aiming for.
Pressure Vest (Thundershirt etc).
Probably the best known of all the pressure vests is the “Thundershirt” although there are many more on the market today that work on the same principal.
They are predominately used for dogs that are anxious, reactive and fearful of a known source such as thunder, fireworks, loud noises, travelling or separation anxiety.
The reasoning behind the vests is similar to the way that swaddling an infant can bring about comfort and reassurance.
Light compression activates the parasympathetic nervous system to help create a feeling of relaxation.
Once this system is stimulated, hormones such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine are released bringing a feeling of calm, a reduction in anxiety and a lowered heart rate.
It is important to buy the right size of pressure vest. For it to be effective, it will need to be a snug fit. The aim is to provide light pressure that is in constant contact with the body but not so tight that it restricts movement.
For the best results, it is vital not only to prepare your dog for wearing one but also to use the vest in a positive way for a period of time before the actual stressful event takes place. Each dog is an individual, so proceed at a pace they are comfortable with. Some dogs, however gently and slowly they are introduced to the vest will not respond well and will become stressed and anxious whilst wearing it, so other things will have to be put in place to help them cope (see the whole fireworks series of blogs)
Wearing the vest should be an enjoyable, stress-free event that the dog associates with pleasant experiences. That could involve a few high-value treats, light massage techniques, a feeling of security, and spending quality time with their owner. Avoid activities that are too stimulating or increase adrenaline, as we are aiming to encourage a feeling of contentment and calm associated with wearing the vest.
The effects of the pressure vest accumulate over time so it is important to carry out the initial introductions when your dog is relaxed and in a state of mind that they can process it as a positive experience. It is also advisable for your dog to wear the vest from time to time to reinforce the feel-good factor when they have it on.
As with the wrap bandages, they should not be left on unattended or for long periods of time, without a break.
If you have a male dog make sure that the wide under-belly strap does not cause discomfort near his genitals, as some of the fastenings do extend a long way back in the abdominal area.
Be aware that the Velcro can be noisy when you unfasten the chest and belly straps, so a noise-reactive dog will need to be carefully introduced so they are not startled by it.
Body Wrap Bandages:
The use of wide, elasticated bandages such as the “Ace” bandage, can be used as a method to reassure a nervous dog or more often as a useful “tool” in the rehabilitation after surgery or where there has been long periods of immobilisation or recovery from a neurological condition.
They are also useful for preparing a dog to wear a harness or coat, touch sensitive dogs, those that pull hard when walking on a lead and for dogs that lack confidence.
The wraps are commonly used in a figure-of-eight configuration, making contact with the chest, crossing diagonally over the back and finishing either near the groin or incorporating the hindquarters.
They do need to be fitted correctly so not to cause harm or discomfort and one of the best guides on applying them can be found on the Tellington T-Touch website.
If they are being used for rehabilitation after surgery or illness then it is essential that your vet, physio or canine massage therapist shows you exactly how to apply them according to your individual dogs’ condition.
It is important that the bandage is elasticated, as the sensation of the pressure against the body which expands and contracts with movement, brings about a heightened sense of awareness on just how the dog is using their body.
The self-adherent bandage that you use for first aid is not suitable for this purpose as it can pull on the hairs and is not quick to remove, should your dog become distressed.
The correct use of body wraps works on the proprioceptive system. This is why they are so useful in rehabilitation and re-training of the body, for example, after a long period of compensatory movement due to pain or a previous injury.
Proprioception, meaning “one`s own” is a sense of relative position of neighbouring body parts and the strength needed for movement.
Proprioception plays a large role in co-ordination, posture and body awareness.
We receive proprioceptive input from the sensory receptors in our skin, muscles and joints. When these receptors are stimulated, through touch or pressure, the brain is provided with the information about our body positioning, movement and speed.
The wraps are often used when performing different activities such as walking and trotting over poles placed on the ground and travelling over varying terrain, this gives an awareness of the dogs limb positions, how they are placing them on the ground and the energy that is propelling them forwards.
It can also become apparent that the dog is favouring to push off more on one hind limb or much happier and free moving in one direction over the other. In these cases, it is important to take regular breaks after 5-10 minutes of work with the wraps on as muscles will become fatigued and sore when adapting to a new movement pattern.
Both the pressure vests and body wraps are a great addition to the holistic wellbeing of your dog. However, they do not replace the expertise of a qualified behaviourist or a canine therapist should your dog need additional help in certain areas.