Tag Archive for: dog welfare

Delia Ortocanis

Why use an orthopedic mattress in older dogs

cama perro ortopedicaDogs, just like us, may need a specific mattress to improve their rest. Much more so if it is about older dogs with pain, mobility problems or that have just come out of a surgical operation . For these cases, orthopedic mattresses for dogs can be a great ally.

What are orthopedic mattresses?:

Orthopedic mattresses for dogs distribute the dog’s weight evenly and adapt to the shape of the animal’s body while lying down. Its function is to avoid pressure points in order to optimize the dog’s rest and joint performance.

Orthopedic mattresses made with memory foam allow the bed to adapt perfectly to the dog’s body, simulating its shape thanks to the memory effect, and then return to its initial state when the dog decides to control the perimeter.

In addition, some mattresses incorporate a waterproof cover, for urinary incontinence or excessive drooling, and with anti-bacterial treatments that increase hygiene and prevent unpleasant odours.

These mattresses are recommended for dogs with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or bursitis and if they fulfill their purpose, they will minimize the difficulty and pain when getting up.

colchón perrosCharacteristics of a visco-elastic mattress:

-Eliminates pressure points by distributing the dog’s weight correctly and evenly, thanks to the special design of the undulating visco-elastic surface.

-Reduces the formation of hygromas and bursitis.

-Improves the rest of dogs with osteoarthritis or joint problems thanks to the adaptability of the material to the shape of the body.

How do I know what mattress size is right for my dog?

There are dogs that like to sleep making the conch shell, others stretched out and some characters even on their backs. If we know the tastes of ours, it will help to decide the size. In any case, the ideal is to look for a mattress with a comfortable size for the dog, which allows it to stretch and accommodate itself in such a way that its limbs are not outside the mattress.

For this, it is recommended to take the measurement of the dog from the nose to the end of the tail and add approximately 20 cm.

Where is the best place to put the mattress?

Choose a quiet, warm and comfortable place in the house. You can notice where the dog spends most of the time to place it there. Remember to allow her to sniff it out first so she can become familiar with her new nest.

Find a place where the mattress is embedded, that is, it cannot be moved from its site. In older dogs it is possible that when they want to raise their limbs, they inadvertently push the mattress and it moves, making going to bed somewhat frustrating. See if the mattress includes an anti-slip system. This detail could be of great help.

Orthopedic mattresses improve the dog’s quality of life , especially if he has joint pain. After using it for a few days you will notice positive results in your behavior, including an improved mood.

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Ortopedia canina

The main care that the dog should have in summer

Spring ends, and with the arrival of summer temperatures rise. At many points we will exceed 35 degrees maximum before we know it.

Like humans, dogs also suffer from the effects of rising temperatures . Therefore, special care must be taken with them. The dog in summer requires special attention.

These simply consist of relieving it so that the heat makes the least possible dent in it. It will suffice to follow a few guidelines to achieve this, and that the animal is as comfortable as possible despite the heat.

The dog in summer: more hydration

The main care that the dog must have in summer is related to hydration. It is essential that you always have water nearby so that you can drink as much as you want, because you will need to drink more than in winter. Water is the best element so that you can keep your body temperature constant , and do not raise your temperature. You have to try, yes, that it is not too hot, so it should be removed from the sun. And change it from time to time.

In case you are with the dog outside the house, they should always carry water with them in summer . There are not always places that provide water for dogs, and if they do not hydrate frequently, they can have a hard time. Do not forget a suitable container so that the animal can drink comfortably.

The heat can also lead the dog to jump headfirst into swimming pools , run to bathe in the sea or go into the river to cool off . Other than getting wet and “showering” everything around you when you shake off, there are no major precautions to take in this regard. Of course, watch where you swim, just in case you don’t make foot and get tired, because you could sink. In that case it will be time to rescue him.

dog hair in summer

When temperatures rise, it is common to see dogs whose hair has been cut to keep them cooler on the streets. But this cannot be done with all breeds , so it is best to check with your vet before doing so. For example, it is advisable to do it in the case of small dogs with long hair.

But if the dog is larger and has hard hair, it should not be cut , as it can be detrimental to its health. The hair is responsible, among other things, for protecting your skin, and its absence can cause damage. What is advisable is to take care that it is well dewormed to avoid additional discomfort to that of the heat.

To alleviate the heat, you can use a water spray , which will be poured on your hair. And if there is a fan, he can be allowed to stand nearby so that the air can soothe him. Of course, in the case of air conditioning, care must be taken that it is not placed right where the air jet hits it. Just like humans, dogs can catch colds, and the draft of refrigerated air can make them cold. If it’s really hot, a cooling vest, like this one, can help.

As for their diet, it should not be changed. And the walks must be carried out , as far as possible, in the hours of the day when it is less hot . It is best to walk early in the morning and in the late afternoon.

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