Dog neutering is a very popular practice in the United States. In doing so, people hope to avoid overpopulation or various unwanted behaviors. But is it a good choice for dogs, health-wise?

The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine conducted a study with hopes of determining whether or not neutering is detrimental to canine health, and chose Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers as their subjects. The two breeds, which have been accepted worldwide as exemplary family pets and service dogs, are very similar in behavioral disposition, body size, and conformation, and were labeled as conducive to a comparative study.

Upon finishing data collection, which spanned 13 years of veterinary records, researchers made some somber conclusions:

“…The incidence rates of both joint disorders and cancers at various neuter ages were much more pronounced in Golden Retrievers than in Labrador Retrievers,” notes Benjamin Hart, DVM, Ph.D., a distinguished professor emeritus in the School of Veterinary Medicine.

The long-term effects mentioned included joint disorders like hip dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament tears, and cancers deemed “devastating”.

A connection was also found between early sterilization—before the animal is 6 months old—and the appearance of joint disorders. About 5 percent of intact Golden and Labrador Retrievers of both genders suffer from a joint disorder, the researchers determined. The rate in dogs sterilized before 6 months old jumped to 10 percent of Labs and 20 to 25 percent of Goldens.

The removal of hormone-producing organs during the first year of a dog’s life leaves the animals vulnerable to the delayed closure of long-bone growth plates, explains lead investigator Dr. Hart.

“We found in both breeds that neutering before the age of 6 months, which is common practice in the United States, significantly increased the occurrence of joint disorders, especially in the golden retrievers,” says Dr. Hart.

While neutering doubled joint disorders in Labradors, neutered Golden Retrievers saw their rate of joint disorder jump to four or five times that of Goldens that had not been neutered. Golden retrievers also saw a similar discrepancy in cancer rates, but with only female Goldens significantly affected. The study found that female Goldens that had been neutered had their risk of cancer rise three to four times that of non-neutered females.

The researchers did not take a stand on spaying and neutering, which is done to an estimated 83 percent of all U.S. dogs to control the pet population and prevent unwanted behaviors. Instead, they stated that the study served to measure the long-term health effects of sterilization and to educate breeders and dog owners who are deciding when, and if, to spay or neuter their animals.

Once a dog reaches the age of 10, he’s got an approximately 50 percent chance of developing some type of cancer. That’s not necessarily a death sentence, as certain cancers are more treatable or slower-growing than others. Breeds at high risk of cancer usually are vulnerable to different types of the disease.Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

High-Risk Breeds

Approximately 60 percent of golden retrievers eventually succumb to cancer, according to the Wall Street Journal. Other breeds with high cancer risks include the boxer, rottweiler and the Bernese mountain dog. The latter breed runs a 50 percent risk of dying from histiocytosis, a type of cancer for which these big dogs are genetically predisposed. The flat-coated retriever, a close relative of the golden retriever, is another susceptible breed, as are cocker spaniels, English bulldogs and Boston terriers.

Medium-Risk Breeds

Many breeds have only a moderate risk of developing cancer, often of a specific type particular to that breed. Medium-risk breeds include the standard and miniature poodle, the standard and miniature schnauzer, the dachshund, the Brittany, the Jack Russell terrier, the Alaskan malamute, the bichon frise, the Pekingese, the shih tzu and the Weimaraner.

Low-Risk Breeds

In some breeds, cancer is a relative rarity. That doesn’t mean other potentially fatal diseases or conditions don’t affect them, but there is less likelihood of malignancy. These “lucky dogs” include the border collie, the Australian shepherd, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, the greyhound, the Havanese, the Maltese, the miniature pinscher and the Welsh corgi.

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, often affects large breeds, although any dog can come down with the disease. Unfortunately, the prognosis for this rapidly spreading cancer usually isn’t good. Breeds most likely to develop bone cancer include the Saint Bernard, the Doberman pinscher, the Great Dane, the German shepherd, the Irish setter — and the golden retriever.

Risk Reduction

While it’s not possible to completely prevent cancer in your dog, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Spaying or neutering your dog eliminates or significantly reduces the likelihood of your pet developing mammary, uterine or testicular cancer. Check your dog for lumps on a weekly basis. Since oral carcinomas are common, inspect his mouth frequently for any lesions or bumps. If you find a lump or growth on your dog, schedule an appointment with your vet to have it checked out. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a difference in your dog’s longevity.

You see them everywhere: the “lost dog” signs stapled to telephone polls, the “missing pet” ads in the daily newspaper. The fact is, losing a pet — even just for a short period — happens to even the best of owners.

According to numbers from the ASPCA, approximately 36 percent of the 3.9 million dogs that enter animal care shelters in the United States enter as strays that were separated from their owners. That’s a lot of lost dogs!

Fortunately, technology exists to help you find your pet in the event that he ever becomes lost. Microchipping your dog, along with outfitting him with a collar and up-to-date ID tags, will go a very long way toward helping you reunite with your beloved pet.

Because microchipping is new to some people, and the technology hasn’t caught on everywhere, many people have questions when it comes to this topic. Here are some answers to the questions dog owners might have about microchipping.

1. What is a microchip?

A microchip is a small electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder — so tiny that it’s about the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is inserted under your dog’s skin via a hypodermic needle and is activated by a scanner that is passed over the microchip. Once it’s activated, the microchip emits a radio frequency and displays information that can help recover your dog in the event that he becomes lost, including a registration number and the phone number for the registry of the particular brand of microchip.

2. Will a microchip hurt my dog or get lost in his body?

Getting a microchip inserted via a hypodermic needle feels pretty similar to any kind of injection — a quick pinch and it’s done. The microchip is inserted beneath the skin and begins to bond to the surrounding tissue within 24 hours, preventing it from moving, according to the Humane Society of the United States. There’s a small chance that the microchip can move slightly, but it won’t get lost in your dog’s body.

3. What kind of information does a microchip hold?

Microchips only contain identification numbers that are generated by the registry of the particular brand of chip.

4. Can a microchip replace a collar and ID tags?

No! Think of microchipping your dog as added protection. A collar and up-to-date ID tags are still a great bet for recovering your dog if your average person finds him wandering around, especially if that person doesn’t have access to or doesn’t know about microchips. Plus, like most technology, microchips aren’t foolproof. According to the HSUS, universal scanners can detect the presence of a microchip, but might not be able to read the information on it. And if an animal shelter volunteer or vet clinic staff doesn’t use the scanner properly, it might not detect the microchip.

5. Is there a central database that registers microchip information?

Not really. Each brand of microchip maintains its own database. Fortunately, though, microchip scanners display the name of the microchip’s manufacturer when the microchip is read.

To help users find out microchip information more easily, the American Animal Hospital Association launched the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool in 2009. entering the microchip ID into the search bar, users can find out which manufacturer is associated with the ID, and can then contact the manufacturer to find out owner information. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the likelihood that an pet can’t be identified from his microchip is very low.

6. What happens to the information on my dog’s microchip if I move?

If you change addresses, you must contact the company that registers your dog’s microchip and update your information.

7. Where can I get my dog microchipped?

Most veterinary clinics provide microchipping services. Some pet-supply stores and animal shelters also provide microchipping events.

8. Are there any health concerns associated with microchips?

Some news reports have linked microchips with cancer; however, the AVMA states that the chance of a pet developing cancer because of a microchip is “very, very low.”

9. Will a microchip really help to recover my dog if he gets lost?

Yes! According to the AVMA, a study of more than 7,700 stray animals at shelters showed that dogs with microchips were returned to their owners over 52 percent of the time; dogs without microchips were only returned to their owners 21 percent of the time. Of the dogs that weren’t returned, most of the time it was because the owner information in the registry database was incorrect, or the chip was never registered. So if your dog is microchipped, be sure to register his information, and keep it current!

When you think about grooming a dog, you probably consider bathing him, brushing his coat, even cleaning those floppy ears, but its a good idea to give dogs a pedicure every few weeks as well. If youve never trimmed a dogs nails, ask for some help from a more experienced person, and keep these instructions nearby.

1: Stay Sharp

ThinkstockA few different tools are available to help you trim a dogs nails, including those that resemble miniature pliers and those with replaceable sliding guillotine blades. Use whichever model makes you and the animal most comfortable, but be sure to replace the blade frequently to make the job easier and prevent the dog from feeling any discomfort.

2: Pull Their Legs

Dogs are often pretty cooperative when it comes to having their nails trimmed, and those who were handled often as puppies are even more likely to comply. Still, you may need to work a little to keep the animal still. If youre working alone, have the dog sit or lie down on the floor or examining table, then trim the nails, one paw at a time.

3: Pull Their Legs, Part II

If youre grooming a larger dog or if the animal is apprehensive, have someone sit him down and hold out his paw, then get to work with the clippers. Have your helper scratch behind the dogs ears to reassure the animal and help move things along a little more quickly.

4: Take the Edge Off

Remember that you should only remove the very end of the dogs nails. You may be tempted to trim off all of the excess, but that would be a mistake. In dogs, the quickthe nerve endings and blood vessels inside the nailcontinue to grow as the nail grows. That means long nails must be trimmed bit by bit, over weeks or months, until the quick gradually recedes. Because its so difficult to see the quick in dogs with dark nails, youll need to look at the nail straight on (see diagram below)and keep trimming until you see a small dark circle. If you accidentally clip too far and the nail begins to bleed, apply pressure to the tip of the nail or dip the nail in a bit of styptic powder, then make sure the animal is kept inactive for a short time.

5: Thank Them Very Much

Give the dog a treat or a pat on the tummy to thank him for his cooperation, and things should go at least as well the next time around.

You might know that caring for a dog can help children learn to be more responsible, but studies show that dogs also boost self-esteem in children, enhance social skills, and help them to be more cooperative and share. Whether you’re looking for a purebred dog or mixed-breed dog, here are a few that typically do well with children. Remember, an adult must always supervise interactions between any dog and children, and the kids must be taught to treat dogs gently and respectfully.

Airedale Terrier

The “King of the Terriers” is hugely versatile, performing successfully as a hunter, guide dog for the blind, livestock herder, elegant show dog, and loving family pet. Airedale Terriers are smart, sensitive, and playful, making them fabulous companions for children. More>>

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are active, intelligent “people dogs” who want nothing more than to be a part of the family. Happy to travel to kids’ baseball games, join in on fun outings like trips to the beach, and herd the kids around the yard, Aussies make wonderful companions for respectful children who are taught to behave properly around the dog.

Beagle

It’s hard to deny the Beagle’s rightful place in a fun-loving pack of “Peanuts,” though Beagles are more engaged and sincere than the ever-famous Snoopy and just as entertaining. This short-haired miniature hound loves to be a part of the family and to be involved in everyday things. He will follow little ones around the house and yard, keeping one eye on them and the other on mischief of his own. He needs a good parent to train him and teach him manners since he’s naturally a curious little fellow with big-dog ideas of his won.

Bearded Collie

Described as bouncy and exuberant—ideal for keeping happy kids active and moving— the Bearded Collie lives to be around children. With its long, easycare, unkempt coat and athletic build, the Beardie loves to participate in fun activities and sports, like jogging, running alongside a bicycle, hiking, and chasing sheep (get some!). The Bearded Collie’s strong sheepdog instincts can lead to its gathering (herding) young people or even nipping at their Nikes: parents must train the dog to know the difference between kids and ewes and supervise so that the dog’s nanny instincts are properly channeled.

Bernese Mountain Dog

For the family with children seeking a large dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog makes a docile, sweet-natured companion. With its long, silky black coat marked with characteristic white and rust, the Bernese stands up to 27.5 inches at the shoulder. It is a versatile outdoor dog whose smart and confident demeanor recommend it for the job of child’s companion. They are known to be able to do anything from pulling carts, herding cows, guarding the home, yard and farm, and even babysitting the kids.

Bichon Frise

This animated powder puff is a lovely companion for older children, and fits perfectly in any household, from suburban living to big-city apartments. The beautiful, plush, snow-white coat is low shedding dog breed but needs regular professional grooming to maintain. The Bichon Frise might be suitable for people with dog allergies.

Boston Terrier

Playful, gentle, and affectionate, the Boston Terrier makes a great pal. Sturdy enough to enjoy rough play, they want to be with you and are not backyard dogs. This compact, smart breed is easy to care for, requires minimal exercise, and does best when his humans show gentle leadership.

Boxer

The handsome Boxer is as loyal and dignified as he is affectionate and energetic. When trained and socialized, Boxers are tireless and downright silly companions for youngsters. Supervise to make sure 50 to 85 pounds of Boxer don’t knock over your kids and their friends.

Bulldog

The lumbering, gentle Bulldog is both sturdy and slow—a great match for families with kids. Often referred to as the English Bulldog, this dignified dog breed is typically an even-tempered and agreeable fellow, and tends to form tight bonds with children.

Bullmastiff

Created using a blend of 60 percent Mastiff and 40 percent Bulldog, the powerful Bullmastiff combines the best of both dog breeds in a large, strong package. This dog breed is devoted to his family, adores children, and possesses a protective but mellow outlook, making the Bullmastiff one of the better extra-large breeds for city living.

Bull Terrier

Like all terriers, the Bull Terrier is active and full of personality, and this sometimes comical breed is especially ready for fun. This is a substantial dog, weighing up to 70 pounds, and can be headstrong like a stubborn child. But with positive training, socialization, and inclusion in family activities, the Bull Terrier thrives as a loving companion.

Cairn Terrier

An active and super bright little dog—the breed once followed the skipping Dorothy down the Yellow Brick Road—Cairn Terrier loves to be the center of attention…in real life and movies! They’ve been described as rugged and resourceful and do best as family dogs, provided they have a dog-smart parent to teach them right from wrong. Since they will chase small animals, like squirrels and chipmunks, they must always be on lead when not in a safely fenced area.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Nicknamed the “Comforter Spaniel” by British royalty who favored the dog breed throughout history, today’s Cavalier makes a devoted pet for gentle children and does not require a castle to keep him happy. Cavaliers can adapt to a little exercise or a lot, and the beautiful, silky coat is easily maintained with regular brushing and combing, so no professional grooming is required.

Collie

Even though most kids today haven’t heard of Lassie, the Collieremains the proverbial children’s dog due to the breed’s instinctive protective nature and the intelligence of a ten year old child. Collies like to take walks and run in the backyard, but they adapt to the family’s lifestyle and can be happy in any size home. The rough Collie requires more grooming than the smooth coat, but it’s essentially amounts to just a few minutes a week.

Golden Retriever

The bright, smiling Golden Retriever is a medium-sized sporting dog, weighing in between 55 and 75 pounds, with a long, lustrous coat in various shades of “golden.” This breed has never met a stranger and views all youngsters as his designated playmates. The Golden is always ready for play, whether it’s galloping in the backyard, swimming on the beach, or hiking on a trail.

Labrador Retriever

Lead a Lab to water and it will retrieve all day: balls, sticks, and even children who happen to go for a swim. Whether black, chocolate or yellow, the Lab’s kid-friendly nature has helped make him the most popular dog breed in the United States. Patient and gentle by nature, the Lab excels in a home with respectful children, and craves regular play and exercise to channel his exuberance for life.

Newfoundland

A devoted family companion dog with a sweet and even temperament, the Newfoundland has proved himself reliable around kind, well-behaved children. Although kids should never be allowed to climb on top of or ride on the backs of these gentle giants, Newfies are robust and engaged playmates, and delight in hauling children around in carts.

Poodle (Miniature and Standard)

Although Toy Poodles are too fragile for young kids, Miniature Poodleand Standard Poodle are excellent playmates for respectful children. Well-bred Poodles are active and intelligent, and revel in learning fun tricks or playing endless games of fetch in the yard. An added bonus: Poodles are dogs that don’t shed and might be suitable for people with dog allergies.

Pug

The Pug is as sturdy and big as a Toy breed gets. Weighing in at 14 to 18 pounds, the Pug is a compact, little dog with tons of personality. Most Pugs are easygoing and playful, enjoying the attention of sensible children who recognize that the Pug is no plaything. In cool weather, Pugs are animated and entertaining friends for kids, but tire easier than larger dogs.

Weimaraner

No reason for the kids to be afraid of this ghost, the Weimaraner (called the “grey ghost” because of its distinct color) is an easygoing, tolerant family dog whose above-average intelligence makes him easy to train. Weims are naturally graceful and know how big they are, even if they attempt to snuggle with owners on small chairs on laps. Ancestors were bred to hunt, and today’s Weimaraner likes to be a member of the family pack.

A versatile cooking herb, iron-rich parsley adds more than just flavor to dishes for people and their dogs. The compounds found in this super plant mimic the hemoglobin that carries oxygen on red blood cells. Its natural astringent, cleansing, and deodorizing properties mean it also leaves the breath fresh and clean.

Try these pup-pleasing, parsley dog treats!

Ingredients:

1¾ cup lukewarm meat or vegetable broth

1½ teaspoon dry yeast

1¾ cup all-purpose flour

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour

½ cup yellow cornmeal

¼ cup fat-free powdered milk

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees

Dissolve yeast in lukewarm broth and let stand until foamy (about 10 minutes)

Stir in dry ingredients and fresh herbs

Roll the dough out to ¼-inch thickness

Cut shapes with your favorite cookie cutters, and bake on a greased cookie sheet for 45 minutes

Turn off oven, and allow biscuits to finish hardening 10 to 12 hours. Recipe makes 20 to 30 biscuits, depending on the size and shape.

Parsely and many other herbs can easily be grown in your home and can provide endless options for enriching your life and your dog’s.

Many of us have been stung by bees. No one likes it. When a bee comes by, people often flail and scream and run like Godzilla is attacking the city. Luckily a bee sting is generally not too bad. It might be a little painful and then it turns itchy, but that’s about it, unless of course you are allergic (in which case, please do run and scream).

While dog’s don’t have the same fear reaction that humans have, they physical reaction to a bee sting is not that different. Often dogs will have a similar reaction: some mild irritation and itching. But just like with humans, dogs can suffer from allergic reactions to bee and wasp stings and if your dog has never been stung by a bee, you won’t know if he’s allergic until it happens.

Symptoms of an Allergic Reactions:

Swelling

Difficulty Breathing

General Weakness

To be safe, the ASPCA recommends taking a dog that has been stung be a bee to your vet for treatment right away, as significant allergic reactions can become life-threatening. This becomes even more important if your dog is stung by multiple bees or stung anywhere inside the mouth. Dogs, if stung multiple times at once, can suffer damage to their kidneys and even die from the complications.

Here are some tips on keeping your dog safe from bee stings:

1. Be smart when outdoors. Bees and wasps alike spend most of their time out and about during the hottest times of the day. Plan to take your dog on walks and have playtime at either dawn or dusk, as it reduces the risk of your pup being stung.

2. Stay away from flowers. Although, this might seem self explanatory for you, dogs might not understand. It is imperative to keep your dog away from flower gardens and the like because of the amount of bees that are usually found in those areas.

3. Light on the fragrances. Bees are attracted to sweet smells. So, if you are out and about with your dog, lay off the perfume and deodorant, as it might bring some unwelcome guests during playtime or your walk.

What if your dog is stung by a bee?

One important thing to always remember is to stay calm. Your best friend cannot be helped if you are not in the right state of mind.

Once you realize that your four-legged friend has been stung, take these steps to minimize the damage:

1. Look at the area where your dog was stung and try to remove the stinger if it is still present. Note: DO NOT try to pinch and pull it out like a splinter, as that can lead to more venom in the dog’s system. Instead, try to flick it out with your finger or a sharp edge, like a credit card.

2. After removing the stinger, apply a mixture or baking soda and water to the sting area. If it is a single bee sting, monitor your dog for breathing troubles, allergic reactions, or other complications. If your dog swells up a considerable amount or has any of the previous symptoms, do not hesitate and go to your nearest veterinarian.

3. If your dog is only having mild symptoms and seems in good health, Dr. Jon Geller, reccomends using over-the-counter diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

“You can give your dog up to 1 milligram per pound of body weight. If your dog is very small, look for pediatric diphenhydramine formulations,” says Geller, who also notes that it’s important to use plain oral tablets, capsules or liquid that contain no other ingredients. “It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes for the antihistamine to take effect. In some dogs, only an injection of steroids and antihistamine by your veterinarian will be effective.”

If the swelling is anything more than mild, give diphenhydramine at home, then immediately take your dog to the vet for repeat injectable drugs.

3. If your dog has been stung multiple times, go to the nearest veterinarian as soon as possible.

And now that we covered all that serious information that has made you all the better parent to your pet, please enjoy these photos of the only kinds of bees we do like: dog bees.

Photo from TheApiary

Photo from PeteGraham

Photo from Beeminde

Photo from GracieLuShihTzu