3greytjoys

Tuffie toys are excellent as semi-soft, yet very durable toys: http://www.tuffietoys.com/ We like the doughnut shaped Tuffie toys that do not look like animals (or our cats). Our toys have lasted for many years through all of our own Greyhounds and down to 18 month old fosters. Cat toys are dangerous to have around dogs and puppies. Cats' toys are so small, a puppy or dog can easily ingest them causing an internal blockage. We keep all cat toys locked away, and brought out only for supervised kitty play sessions when the dogs are safely separated in a different room. The only cat toys allowed out (in limited rooms) are small plain pieces of paper wadded up into small balls. (If the older dogs find one, they usually just shred apart a paper ball.) Puppies try to eat everything and should be supervised around toys. They often chew apart and ingest soft squeaky toys or tennis balls. By the way, please be careful to not allow her to chase your cat/s. Cats are too easily looked upon as a fun, live squeaky toy. Congratulation on your new little girl!

She could be trying to communicate that she's feeling emotionally or physically flooded by too much handling. Safest for you to back away and let her rest peacefully without being touched. If her hot water bottle needs to be moved from her bed, try happily calling her to "come" to you in another area or another room (e.g., kitchen for a special treat). After she vacates her bed, pick up/move the hot water bottle. We try to respect a golden rule for dogs: Let resting dogs lie undisturbed. We wait for dogs to stand up and come to us for attention. Their bed is considered their safe, undisturbed zone. Since your girl required early medical care, perhaps you could back track a bit now to allow her more personal space which will help build her trust in you. That said, I haven't seen your other thread/s yet.

It appears there were fifty five scientific resources used to develop American Veterinary Medical Association's policy alone. I doubt the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, etc. cares in the least about earnings of kibble companies. Human public health safety, and the health of pets is the primary concern. If it were not, there would be no FDA recalls. People and animals can die from salmonella related illnesses. (I knew an otherwise healthy middle age person who was long hospitalized and nearly died from it.) It often affects children, people with compromised immune systems, and the elderly. Side note: It's my understanding that medical doctors for humans now recommend placing raw meat directly from the package into a pan for cooking up to the meat's recommended safe temperature, instead of rinsing off raw meat in the sink which contaminates a wider area.

Congratulations! I'm happy you found another wonderfully special boy to join your family! He can finally relax and enjoy a bit cooler climate.

Interesting share. The following professional veterinary organizations discourage feeding raw meat to dogs. Last quote includes symptoms of salmonella infection in dogs. Salmonella (and other organisms) in raw meat that are shed in dogs' stools can survive for weeks or longer in the environment. 1. American Veterinary Medical Association 2. The American Animal Hospital Association 3. American College of Veterinary Nutritionists 4. National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians 5. U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention 6. U.S. Food and Drug Administration Etc... ----- Raw or Undercoocked Animal-Source Protein in Dog Diets: https://www.avma.org/kb/policies/pages/raw-or-undercooked-animal-source-protein-in-cat-and-dog-diets.aspx ----- All text below is quoted with links noted. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) make the following statement on their website: Raw diets, especially raw meat diets, are not recommended because of the risk for salmonellosis and other infections that can affect pets and their owners. The American College of Veterinary Nutritionists (ACVN), in a FAQ document on its website, makes the following statement: Raw diets, both home-prepared and commercial, have become more popular. Advocates of raw diets claim benefits ranging from improved longevity to superior oral or general health and even disease resolution (especially gastrointestinal disease). Often the benefits of providing natural enzymes and other substances that may be altered or destroyed by cooking are also cited. However, proof for these purported benefits is currently restricted to testimonials, and no published peer-reviewed studies exist to support claims made by raw diet advocates. No studies have examined differences in animals fed raw animal products to those fed any other type of diet (kibble, canned, or home cooked) with the exception of looking at the effects on digestibility. Typically raw meats (but not other uncooked foods like grains or starches) are slightly more digestible than cooked meat. There are risks and concerns associated with the feeding of raw diets. One of these is the risk of nutritional imbalances, which is a reality for both home-prepared and commercial raw meat diets. Another important risk is related to bacterial or parasitic contamination. Of course, food poisoning is also a major concern for people, and the public health aspects of feeding raw foods to pets cannot be overlooked. Safe and proper handling of raw foods is crucial for reducing the risk, but safety cannot be guaranteed. At this time, the vast majority of purported benefits of feeding raw foods remain unproven, while the risks and consequences have been documented. It is best to discuss the choice of feeding raw foods with your veterinarian so that an informed decision can be made with regard to your pet’s diet. ---- The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) approved a policy in August 2012 that discourages feeding raw meat to pets. The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) both endorsed the AAHA statement. The policy was developed independently of the AVMA’s position, but was shared with AVMA prior to posting on the website. Source: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Raw-Pet-Foods-and-the-AVMA-Policy-FAQ.aspx ----- Raw Pet Foods and the AVMA Policy FAQs: Q: How would I know if my pet becomes infected with Salmonella from its food? A: There are many sources of Salmonella. Because the organism can persist in the environment for weeks, even after thorough cleaning, the exact source of your animal’s illness (if it is the food) may be long gone. Animals with salmonellosis may show some or all of the following signs: Lethargy Decreased appetite Fever Vomiting Excess salivation (in cats) Diarrhea (may contain blood or mucus) Also be aware that pets may be infected with Salmonella but may not appear to be sick. Salmonella bacteria can be shed in your pet’s stool for 4 to 6 weeks, and possibly longer, after infection. If you suspect your pet is ill, contact your veterinarian. If your pet is infected with Salmonella and is shedding the bacteria in their stool, it’s also possible for people to become infected by contact with their infected pet’s fur, mouth, or feet – as well as anything that can come in contact with your pet’s stool. You can find Salmonella essentially anywhere the animal has been. Salmonella can survive for weeks or even years given the right environmental conditions (temperature, pH, humidity). Source: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Raw-Pet-Foods-and-the-AVMA-Policy-FAQ.aspx End quotes. ETA: AVMA's resource list: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/References-for-the-AVMA-policy-on-raw-pet-foods.aspx

I'd set him up for success by letting him sleep in a secured X-pen or large crate in your bedroom for several weeks while he adjusts to family life. A baby-gate works well if you can create a space where he still feels he's in the family's sleeping room. Agree with JJNG's post.

This is so sad. It must have been extremely frightening; plus, you and Bernie enduring the ongoing physical pain from your wounds. Please let us know how both of your recoveries progress. I agree that this was not your fault. Most sadly, you were right about the Beagle's poor treatment by the (possibly unknowing?) owner. Dominance training/handling has long been proven to cause and/or increase aggression in animals, but many pet owners aren't aware of that. The Beagle could have been born a sweet tempered dog, but human aggression begets animal aggression. You might be interested in this short article: http://vetmedicine.about.com/b/2009/07/07/veterinary-behaviorists-take-a-stand-against-cesar-millan.htm You and Bernie will be in our healing thoughts. I hope his swelling/infection can be controlled soon. Many excellent responses in this thread. I agree to snap photos now, and during your recovery.

Could be worth a call to a vet. I knew a Greyhound who died from ingesting a sock (obstruction).

Oh, I'm so very sorry for your loss of sweet Mikey. Thank you for giving him a wonderfully loving final 6+ months of his life. Mikey held a special place in my heart from the time you brought him home. He will be missed.

I wonder if his collar irritated his scar, or if he's scratching it with his nails. If you don't already use a harness on him, I imagine you've considered or tried them. Iker is such a lucky boy to be alive, and living with you.

Ben, I'm deeply sorry for your loss of your beloved companion, Niles. Mel was so kind to post about him over the years. He was such a handsome boy. My heart goes out to you, and to Niles' extended family who also loved him. May your happy memories with Niles offer heartfelt comfort. Thinking of you during this difficult time.

I'm so very sorry for your difficult loss of Tommy. It seems that he was deeply loved and so fortunate to have had such a caring family. Our sincere condolences to you and your family during this most difficult loss of your only pet family member. Godspeed sweet Tommy. Thank you for thoughtfully returning to your thread to update us. (If desired, please feel free to post more about Tommy in Remembrance. Moderators often lock H&M threads after a dog has passed.)

I'm so sorry about your girl's declining health. This may not help your girl; however, one of our Greyhounds has hemangiosarcoma, and is an excessive bleeder. (Excessive bleeding is not uncommon in Greyhounds.) If needed, please ensure your vet is aware of Amicar (Aminocaproic Acid). Our three excessive bleeders receive Aminocaproic Acid for all surgeries (including minor dental extractions) and for 4 to 5 days post-surgery. Many Greyhounds can appear to be okay upon leaving the hospital, but can begin bleeding internally anytime within 4 days of recovery. Our hemangiosarcoma hound has bled internally when not associated with a surgery also. If needed, Aminocaproic Acid is available in liquid form (beef flavor) from a compounding pharmacy, or in tablet form from a human pharmacy. Costco's pharmacy offers least expensive tablets that we've found. If your local pharmacies don't keep it in stock, it can take 3-4 days to order. Positive thoughts for your girl.

No avocados please. Avocados are toxic to dogs and cats.

Unfortunately, Greyhounds have had serious injuries from those falls. I'd suggest calling your e-vet hospital and ask to speak with a nurse. (I'm not a vet, I'd hesitate to suggest pain medication in case it interferes with the vet's exam/test/treatment program.) Positive healing thoughts for Bessie. (BTW, if you don't have carpet, cheap runner rugs with gripper pads, or rubber-backed area rugs can help hounds keep their legs more controlled than on hard surface floors.)

Perhaps consider asking your vet if Gambler needs an appt. now (before you attempt to self-treat). If so, ask if you can pay the bill next week (or hold off on charging your credit card until next week)? It could be something more serious like a ruptured eardrum, or a serious infection that requires prescription medication. In the meantime, please don't let him go swimming.

I'm so saddened to read this news. Barb's posts will certainly be missed on GreyTalk. I can only imagine how much it meant for her to be able to go home to be with her dogs during her final days in hospice care. I'm relieved that she was able to arrange placement for them so she could pass more peacefully. Our sincere condolences to her family and friends. Godspeed this kind-hearted woman. May she rest in peace. (It's much appreciated that the news of her passing reached her GT friends. Thanks to all who helped that happen.)

Agree with others to turn away and ignore his jumping behavior. Dogs do what works for them. If they don't reap any reward (your attention in this case), they'll learn to stop the undesirable behavior. Happily excited hounds who jump up want to be at their human's face height. Here, instead of allowing them to jump up, I go down to their level to reward them with attention when they're standing 4-legs-on-the-floor. Works like a charm.

Thank you for letting us know. Yes, so relieved it's not cancer. Just sharing a few thoughts... Perhaps installing a strong, tall baby-gate would be safer, and potentially allow the kitchen door to remain open so he can feel a little more included in the family when his people aren't in the kitchen(?). If the rugs are not already rubber-backed, adding rubber rug-gripper mats (to go under area rugs) helps prevent rug slippage. They're fairly cheap at home center stores like Home Depot. You are being so kind to sleep with him now. I understand it's not easy moving an immobile hound. If interested, we use a dog body wrap called "Walk-a-Bout" (neoprene) to help our immobile Greyhounds go outside to potty. Other GTers have used a special harness. We're sending positive thoughts your way, and rapid healing energy for your sweet boy.

I have seen pictures of similar sized masses on a few Greyhounds' necks; however, I don't recall the exact diagnosis for all of them. One large mass was closer to the dog's throat (vs. shoulder) and was a salivary mucocoel from a ruptured duct. I'm not a veterinarian, but I would definitely get your boy to a vet ASAP. Some tumors can grow rapidly. Kitchen floors are often hard surfaces, so he might have injured himself trying to move around, but I'd suspect something else with a baseball size mass. Hopefully your boy has large, thick area rugs in the kitchen to help him feel more secure whenever he is not resting on a thick dog bed. Fingers crossed that it can be drained or otherwise easily treated. Please let us know how his vet visit goes.

If it happens again try sliding your foot parallel next to her slipped leg and gently slide her leg closer to her body so she can brace against your foot for stability. You know your hound best, but I'd wait and watch her on thick carpeted surfaces or a very thick dog bed before further veterinary testing. All our hounds' hind legs have slid away from their body on hard surfaces like wood or tile.

Welcome to GreyTalk, and congratulations on your new Greyhound girl! Yes, normal for a newly retired Greyhound. Since you mentioned she walks the other way after her courtesy growl, she's likely feeling fearful of strange dogs, and her growling is her communicating her discomfort. (Please don't reprimand her for growling since it is a dog's safe way of communicating their feelings.) She's been dropped in a scary new world. She's trying to adjust to a new home (without her family of Greyhounds at the kennel), new people, new city environment, and other breeds of dogs can look like aliens to newly retired Greyhounds simply because they've never been around other breeds before. I agree to give her more time to adjust, take a few steps back from stimulating environments, and keep some distance between Kellie and other dogs for a while. When I get new fosters, we simply practice taking short neighborhood walks. We pass by other dogs but try to do so from across a street, or if walking straight towards another dog, we turn away to walk in another direction so we can avoid or arc around another dog without close dog-to-dog contact. Eventually, the new Greyhounds become accustomed to seeing other breeds but are no longer fearful knowing they can trust me to keep their personal space safe. After a few weeks or months we can begin working on meeting other well-mannered dogs during walks. BTW, I assume she's riding with you in the front cab of your truck. Just to be aware, dogs do jump out of a moving vehicle's open windows so it's safest to only lower windows about 4" or 5", and go for rides when the weather is cool. (During summer, we usually go for rides after the sun sets.)

Here is a good link explaining dogs' language of calming signals (adapted from Turid Rugaas): http://theartofdog.com/articles/calming.pdf (Thanks to GreyTalker "JohnF" for posting this link in another thread. I couldn't find an active link to Turid's work yesterday.) I just wanted to add that dogs are learning something during every interaction with us every day throughout their lives. (Could be learning desirable behavior like waiting at a doorway or lying on their bed instead of being underfoot in the kitchen, or undesirable like begging for humans' dinner at the dining table.) Rewarding animals' naturally good behavior is an excellent way to teach polite manners that can last throughout their lifetime. In other words, remain on the lookout to catch the dog doing desirable behaviors, and give the good behavior a word cue with delicious treat rewards (or a toy if not food motivated). This method of teaching works wonderfully well with our sensitive Greyhound breed. Here's an example with a different species. We do a visual cat check before leaving the house to ensure cat didn't dash into a closed closet/room by mistake. Instead of turning every room upside down searching for him, I taught him recall (like a dog) so he comes running to us whenever we call him. His reward is affectionate petting and happy verbal praise. He loves it. Thank you for your loving care of Biddie, and please let us know how things go with her.

Oh Chris, I am stunned. I noticed her name wasn't included in one of your other posts. Our sincere sympathy to you, your husband, and the rest of Cash's family during this difficult time of loss. Cash had the best and most understanding human parents ever. You've always been so kind to share your educated insight about her with others. I imagine you have helped more people than you realize. Godspeed sweet Cash. She tried her best throughout life... May she rest in eternal peace...

Congratulations! Welcome home beautiful Sarah! Looks like she's found her place in life.