You might think of your dog as your fur child, but the law would not agree. “In the eyes of the law, they are really no different than the silverware, the cars, the home,” says Joyce Tischler, director of litigation for the Animal Legal Defense Fund. But in more and more American homes, splitting the pets could get pretty contentious. Consider the numbers. Sixty-three percent — 71.1 million — of U.S. households own pets, according to the latest National Pet Owners Survey. The bulk of those animals are dogs — about 44 million. Americans are expected to spend about $41 billion on their pets this year, a $24 billion increase since 1994, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. Then throw in lifestyle and societal changes: more couples have fewer children than a generation or two ago and view their pets as their kids or companions, owners pay $2,000 for an orthopedist to reconstruct a dog’s knee; designers such as Isaac Mizrahi create pink trench coats and white tulle bridal dresses for the fashion-conscious canine whose owner shops at Target, and high-end pet stores sell rhinestone-studded dog collars, peanut butter biscotti instead of run-of-the-mill dog treats, and strollers for the walking-averse pampered pooch. “When you put all of that together, it’s no wonder that we’re beginning to see an increasing number of custody battles involving companion animals,” Tischler says. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers conducted a poll of 1,500 members and nearly a quarter said they had noticed an increase in custody issues of pets. Judges have had to determine not only who gets the dog but whether one party has the right even to see the dog after the marriage breaks up. To read more on this story, click here:Who Gets The Pets In A Divorce? What You Need To Consider When Fighting Over Fido
Does your dog beat you to the table? Looking up with those puppy dog eyes … waiting for you to drop something down to them? Stop! … and think of what you are eating. Ask yourself, is this going to hurt them? The experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center set the record straight. As the premier animal poison control center in North America, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, make the call that can make all the difference: (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card. For more information visit them at ASPCA - People Foods. Listed below are some of the foods that you should never give your dog. Chocolate and Cocoa contain a chemical called theobromide that can adversely affect the heart, lungs, kidney and central nervous system. Grapes and Raisins can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys, possible resulting in death. Onions can cause a form of hemolytic anemia called Heinz body anemia, a condition that causes the destruction of red blood cells. Kidney damage may follow. Caffeine is quite similar to the toxic chemical in chocolate. It can damage the heart, lungs, kidney and central nervous system. Macadamia nuts, while generally not considered fatal, can cause your dog to experience severe illness. Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol - a seriously toxic chemical compound that causes central nervous system and respiratory depression. Apple seeds, cherry pits, peach pits, and plum pits contain the toxin cyanide. Baby food can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs. It can also result in nutritional deficiencies, if fed in large amounts. Milk and other Dairy Products - Some adult dogs and cats do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the lactose in milk. This can result in diarrhea. Lactose-free milk products are available for pets. Raw Eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella. Sugar-Free Gum - Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener most often found in chewing gum and candy. In dogs, it stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Xylitol ingestion can also cause severe liver damage. Moldy or Rotten foods can cause many problems for your dog, some more serious than others. Any food that seems "past its prime" should be kept out reach. Be especially careful to keep your dog away from trash cans. Poison Control Hotline 888-232-8870 (TOLL FREE) For anyone who may not know, the poison control number charges you $35. This goes to pay the vet in case of a phone consultation. If you ever have to call, make sure to have credit card ready.
Do you know that you should not give your cat milk every day? According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) most cats like milk, but do not need it if properly nourished. Also, many will get diarrhea if they drink too much milk. If it is given at all, the amount should be small and infrequent. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says, unless they are spoiled or moldy, milk, cheese and other dairy foods are not considered to be poisonous to pets. However, cats do not possess significant amounts of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk. Feeding milk and milk-based products to cats can actually cause them to vomit or have diarrhea, which in severe cases could lead to inflammation of the pancreas. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before offering any “people food” to your pets. Listed below are some of the foods that you should never give your cat: Bones from Fish or Poultry - Can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system Canned Tuna (for human consumption) - Large amounts can cause malnutrition, since it lacks proper levels of vitamins and minerals. It can also lead to thiamine deficiency in cats. Chocolate and Cocoa contain a chemical called theobromide that can adversely affect the heart, lungs, kidney and central nervous system. Citrus oil extracts - Can cause vomiting. Cats are more sensitive than dogs. Dog Food - If accidental ingestion, will not cause a problem; if fed repeatedly, may result in malnutrition and diseases affecting the heart. Fat Trimmings - Can cause pancreatitis. Fish (Raw, Canned or Cooked) - If fed exclusively or in high amounts can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. Milk and Other Dairy Products - Some adult cats and dogs may develop diarrhea if given large amounts of dairy products. Mushrooms - Can contain toxins, which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and result in death. Onions and Garlic (raw, cooked, or powder) - Contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are more susceptible than dogs. Garlic is less toxic than onions. Persimmons - Seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis. Raw Eggs - Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella. Rhubarb Leaves - Contain oxalates, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems. Salt - If eaten in large quantities it may lead to electrolyte imbalances. String - Can become trapped in the digestive system; called a "string foreign body." Table Scraps (in large amounts) - Table scraps are not nutritionally balanced. They should never be more than 10% of the diet. Fat should be trimmed from meat; bones should not be fed. Sugary Foods - Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and possibly diabetes mellitus. Yeast Dough - Can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines. Macadamia Nuts - Contain an unknown toxin, which can affect the digestive and nervous systems and muscle. Human Vitamin Supplements Containing Iron - Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys. Grapes, Raisins and Currants - Contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys. Baby Food - Can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to cats . Alcoholic Beverages - Can cause intoxication, coma, and death. Poison Control Hotline 888-232-8870 (TOLL FREE) For anyone who may not know, the poison control number charges you $35. This goes to pay the vet in case of a phone consultation. If you ever have to call, make sure to have credit card ready. Follow Us!
Have you ever considered owing a ferret as a pet? Did you know that ferrets are becoming popular alternatives to more traditional pets? Description: The ferret is a domesticated mammal. They are sexually dimorphic predators with males being substantially larger than females. They typically have brown, black, white, or mixed fur. They have an average length of 20 inches including a 5 inch tail, they weigh about 1.5–4 pounds, and have a natural lifespan of 7 to 10 years. Female ferrets are called jills, and males are hobs. Baby ferrets are called kits, and. In spayed females are sometimes called sprites. While neutered males called gibs. A group of ferrets is a 'business of ferrets'. Behaviour: Ferrets need to be with other ferrets and it is unkind to keep one ferret on its own. Either males or females from the same litter can live happily together. Although ferrets can appear very tame, they are not easy to take care of, they need a great deal of space and may try to escape. They sleep a large part of the day. Tips on buying a ferret: Here are a few ideas of what you should look for in a healthy ferret:
Bright eyes that are free from crusting and other substances
Healthy skin
Soft coat
The ferret should appear alert
Ferrets should be naturally curious
The animal shouldn't be sneezing
Clean bottom
Healthy appetite
Please take a look at the cute video below: Follow Us!
I am not an expert on this subject. All of the views below come from other sources. I would like to know what you think about Animal Hoarding. The Humane Society of the United States says: What is an animal hoarder? An animal hoarder is a person who amasses more animals than he/she can properly care for. Such individuals generally fail to recognize or refuse to acknowledge when the animals in their custody become victims of gross neglect. Animal hoarders are sometimes referred to as animal "collectors" or animal "addicts." The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says: What Is Animal Hoarding? Animal hoarding is a complex and intricate public health and community issue. Its effects are far-reaching and encompass mental health, animal welfare and public safety concerns.
Raw food diets might be the oldest form of pet food; after all, they are very close to what ancient dogs used to eat. As more people become aware of the benefits of raw food diets for humans, more pet owners are switching their dogs to raw diets, as well, for a variety of reasons.
“As pet owners investigate what builds their own good health, they realize good food applies to the whole family—including the four-legged family,” explains Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM, a holistic veterinarian who is also certified in Veterinary Food Therapy and Chinese Herbal Therapy.
In fact, many dog owners switch to a raw diet because their dogs have health problems. This is exactly why dog owner Jessica Winstead put both her Chihuahua mixes on a diet of raw food mixed with canned pumpkin and sweet potato, even though the diet has had different, though positive, effects on the dogs. “My older dog moved in along with my boyfriend about five years ago and he was slightly overweight, but the raw diet leaned him out,” Winstead says. “He also seems to have more energy.” Her other dog, a four-year old rescue, went on a raw diet to address hair issues. “He was missing hair on the back of his spine and was slightly underweight, but since he's been on the raw diet his hair has evened out and he even gained a little weight,” Winstead says. “Our older chi-mix weighs about five pounds more, so we feed him a half portion more than our other mix—but he still leaned out and our smaller guy still gained weight!” Switching to a raw diet, however, is not always that simple. Here are five common mistakes owners often make when switching their dogs to a raw diet. To read more on this story, click here:5 Mistakes People Make When Feeding Pets a Raw Food Diet
Most cats appear naturally agile and athletic, easily jumping from their perches to the floor with an uncanny sense of balance. However, signs of arthritis can begin at any age, even in kittens. Watch for these early-warning signs of arthritis in your feline friend: What Is Arthritis? Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, causes pain and inflammation in a cat’s joints. Although fairly uncommon in felines, arthritis tends to affect the elbow joint when it does strike—but many joints can be afflicted. What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis in Cats?
Felines suffering from arthritis may show overall stiffness
swelling of the joints
lethargy, lameness
decreased flexibility and discomfort when you pet or handle them in certain positions. Decreased activity
Lapsed litterbox habits (due to pain caused by getting in and out of the box)
Hesitancy to run, jump or climb stairs
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your cat, please take them to you Vet for a checkup!
The Shih Tzu (pronounced Shid Zoo in singular and plural), is undoubtedly one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. The Shih Tzu is often referred to as a "small lion." They originated in Tibet, but are most associated with China where they were highly revered as a palace pet and prized companion. The Shih Tzu is an active, happy, and affectionate breed. A compact and solid dog, the Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double coat is its most distinctive feature. The word Shih Tzu means "lion" and although this dog is sweet and playful, they are not afraid to stand up for themselves! Temperament: Shih Tzu love to strut around the house with their head held high and tail wagging! They strut like they own the place! Most have an outgoing, happy, friendly personality! Shih Tzu tend to get a little bossy as they reach the adult age, and quiet down when they get to be seniors. They love to be spoiled at all ages! Human Companions: The ideal companion for the Shih Tzu would be singles, seniors, families with older children. Though good family dogs, Shih Tzu are not especially good with very young children. They cannot be handled roughly or awkwardly and tend to get snappish when their patience wears thin. Size: Shih Tzu usually weigh between 9 and 16 pounds full grown, and measure between 10 – 11 inches in height. Colors: Shih Tzu come in a rainbow of colors. They are Liver and white, cream, black, brindle and white, solid blue (rare), solid brindle, gold and white, black and white, solid white, solid red, red and white, solid silver, silver and white. The Body: The Shih Tzu body is slightly longer than tall, its legs straight and muscular, and its feet firm and well-padded.The head is round, broad, and wide between the eyes, and in balance with the rest of the dog. The dark eyes are large and round; the ears are natural and heavily feathered; the muzzle is square, short and unwrinkled, and flat; lips and chin should neither protrude nor recede. The jaw is undershot, the incisors of the lower jaw overlap the incisors of the upper jaw. The Coat: The coat is long and flowing and generally grows in an upward direction from his nose, which is why you’ll often see him with his fur tied on top of his head. The growth of his fur in all directions from his face has earned him the nickname “chrysanthemum-faced dog.” Most show dogs have the long flowing coat, however, most pet owners like to keep the hair cut short. Health: Basically healthy, the Shih Tzu is subject to a kidney disease called renal dysplasia, and to slipped stifles or kneecaps. His slightly protruding eyes are prone to injury, and his short muzzle often produces slight wheezing problems.
Pasco, Washington - For the last month, there have been allegations of animal abuse at a Pasco dog grooming salon. "This was a nightmare for our family," said victim Jane Doe. "We thought we were going to lose our dog... I just don't want this to happen to anybody else." Often overwhelmed with emotion, this pet owner we're calling Jane Doe recounts the trauma she and her family went through after their beloved Schnauzer was groomed at Paw Spa. As far back as June of 2016, investigators have pored over numerous complaints of animal abuse at the business. However, in the last few months, even more victims have come forward. "Eyewitness statements this time, where we actually have people that came forward that have actually witnessed the events and are willing to testify to those events this time," said Angela Zilar, Director of the Tri-Cities Animal Shelter & Control Services. With new evidence, animal control - along with the Pasco Police Department - have brought their information to prosecutors. "The Pasco Police Department has received a complaint in regards to a local Pasco business that's been, where there's allegations of animal abuse, animal cruelty," said Sgt. Scott Warren with the Pasco Police Department. "It was assigned to an officer, it was investigated and it's been forwarded to the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office for review." Paw Spa owner Michelle Burt denies the allegations against her business, saying they have measures in place to ensure both customer, pet and salon protection. "As a grooming salon, we have incidents," Burt explained. "We've always been able to prove that the incident was not done on purpose because we've had it on camera. We've always sent the dog to the vet, taken care of the vet bill." In Jane Doe's harrowing complaint, she details how her Schnauzer had to have its stomach drained of 16 ounces of fluid after witnesses say the dog was choked to the point of almost losing consciousness. She says her dog had multiple seizures, sending him straight to the ER. Almost two years later, the memory of seeing her dog suffer still haunts her. "We really, truly thought that we were going to lose our dog over a place he was for an hour," Jane Doe said. "So to me, it's kind of no different than dropping your kids off at daycare or at school, and something happening to them there, where you think it's a safe place for them to be." Even though she wants to remain anonymous, Jane Doe still wanted to share her own experience. "If anything else, I just, I just want people, I guess, to be aware, um, and if nothing happens, that would really make me sick to my stomach, to be honest." As of today, the case is currently being reviewed by the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office. We'll continue to follow this case and provide updates.
This is Bruno, and he’s a 25-pound cat who’s currently up for adoption at the Wright-Way Rescue Adoption Center in Morton Grove, Illinois. The 7-year-old cat is polydactyl, meaning he has a few extra toes. He also has a strange habit of standing on his hind legs, the shelter said on Facebook. “This usually happens when I want food. No, my foster parents did not teach me this. They are not sure how I learned,” the shelter said. He’s now on a diet and “walking, playing, and doing tricks” so he can lose some weight. Bruno also apparently loves to be petted while he eats. “It took my foster mom a little time to realize what I was meowing about, since she had just put food in my bowl,” the shelter said. “Soon she found out it’s because I want pets while I eats! I will still eat if you don’t pet me, but I will meow more and stare at you for a while.” He also drinks a lot of water, but is very particular about it. “I never drink the water in the kitchen where my food is. I only drink the water that was put in a completely different room,” the shelter wrote. “If you have a larger house, perhaps put multiple bowls of water around for me and be sure to give me fresh water at least once day?” “Yes, I know I am EXTRA,” they wrote. Besides getting pets while eating and staying hydrated, Bruno’s hobbies are simple: lying down and, well, getting more pets. “When I am in a normal home, most of my day is spent laying around, but never far from my family. I usually prefer to lay on the floor or right next to you, but occasionally I like to be a lap-cat,” the shelter said. “I also really like playing with my feather wand toy. Not so much my other toys or scratchers, though. I do like to sleep with my foster parents, but at the end of the bed so you still have room.” He also likes “when you scratch the sides of my face and neck.” “I like to be pet on the top of my head and spine only. I know my tummy is so tempting to touch, but I would prefer if you didn’t,” they said. “I may swat my hand and pretend to bite if you do.” Bruno is overall just a “pretty laid back, lazy cat who just wants to be in the presence of my owners,” and potential adopters can stop by to meet him at the shelter starting this weekend. Visit me on facebook:Bruno Location: Address: 5915 Lincoln Ave, Morton Grove, IL 60053 Phone: (847) 728-5434 Website: Wright-Way Rescue
Anyone requiring an emotional support animal may need a few moments with that pet now: Airlines and cruise ship operators have announced tighter restrictions on such animals traveling by air and sea. Southwest Airlines said Tuesday it is limiting the emotional support animals (ESAs) allowed on its flights to only dogs and cats, while Royal Caribbean is prohibiting all such creatures, reports said. That means no emotional support ducks, peacocks or hamsters. Southwest's policy requires that all such dogs and cats be restrained by a leash or kept in a carrier, the Los Angeles Times reported. The Dallas-based airline will also limit each passenger to one emotional support animal, according to the report. Well, that didn't fly! United airlines refused to allow a woman, and her emotional support peacock, to fly. You have to see it to believe it. For service animals that are trained to assist with passengers' physical disabilities, the carrier will accept dogs, cats and miniature horses, the paper reported. “We want to make sure our guidelines are clear and easy to understand while providing customers and employees a comfortable and safe experience,” said Steve Goldberg, Southwest's senior vice president of operations and hospitality, according to the Times. Southwest's new policy, which takes effect Sept. 17, requires travelers with an emotional support animal to present a letter from a medical doctor or licensed mental health professional "attesting that the passenger must fly with the animal," the Times reported. Several other airlines, including Alaska, Delta, JetBlue and United have also adopted stricter rules on pets boarding planes. For travel by sea, cruise ships are tightening restrictions on ESAs, with Royal Caribbean prohibiting all emotional support animals aboard its international ships effective immediately, according to Miami's WFOR-TV and the Royal Caribbean blog, an unaffiliated industry site. "We are updating the policy to differentiate emotional support animals from service animals that are trained and certified to perform a function for a person with a disability," Royal Caribbean said in a statement, according to the blog. The cruise ship company also said it's "important to us that all our guests enjoy their vacation, which is why we put into practice this new policy," adding that the policy for service animals traveling with guests who have a disability would remain the same. Reservations of travelers with ESAs noted on bookings prior to July 30 would be allowed to sail, the report said. Other cruise lines Norwegian and Carnival also do not allow emotional support animals onboard, but does permit trained service animals, MarketWatch reported.
Animal shelters across the country are teaming up with NBC and Telemundo stations to find loving homes for pets in need. The fourth annual Clear the Shelters event, a nationwide pet adoption initiative, will be held Aug. 18. Hundreds of shelters — including locations in D.C., Maryland and Virginia — will waive or reduce fees as part of the one-day adoption drive. The goal is to #ClearTheShelters by finding forever homes for as many animals as possible. More than 61,000 pets were adopted during last year's event, including more than 1,300 in the D.C. area. One of those was a dog named Odysseus, then 10 years old. The odds weren't necessarily in his favor: He was a senior dog and also a large one, at 73 pounds. But the German shepherd went home with his new humans that day and found his happily ever after. To learn more about this event, click here:Clear the Shelters Interactive Map: Find Animal Shelters Waiving Adoption Fees This Saturday, August 18 Please Share!
"Poodle cats" are so fluffy that they look more like stuffed animals than living things. The felines, which have been referred to as "cats in sheep's clothing," have made a splash on the internet in recent days, but according to Mother Nature Network, Poodle Cats, officially known as Selkirk Rex, have been around since 1987. Last year, scientists at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna confirmed that the cats had formed a genetically distinct line, and declared them a unique breed. The signature of the Selkirk Rex is, obviously, its absurdly curly hair; even their whiskers curl at the ends. Since this curliness is a dominant gene, the Poodle Cat can be cross-bred with other cats and still produce offspring with the same poodle-like look, according to the Daily Mail. The International Cat Association reports that the first curly cat was born in 1987 in Montana. There she garnered the attention of Jeri Newman, a breeder of Persian cats, who cross-bred her with a black Persian male. The majority of their kittens were born with curly fur, leading Newman to conclude that the gene was dominant. Besides being a genetic anomaly, Poodle Cats are also becoming more and more popular as pets and are downright hilarious to look at:
Dogs can be poisoned by a number of different things including chocolate, grapes, and candy containing xylitol. Just like with humans, poisoning is a very serious issue for dogs, but if you know the signs you can help your pup and get it to the vet in time! To figure out if your dog has been poisoned, look to see if its gums or tongue are blue, purple, white, bright red, or brick colored. Place your hand on the left side of the dog’s chest and listen for a pulse of 180 bpm or higher. Observe your dog to see if it is vomiting, having diarrhea, are dizzy or disoriented, pant heavily for over 30 minutes, or if it's lost its appetite for over a day. If you see any of these signs, contact your vet immediately. Examine Your Dog’s Body 1) Look in your dog’s mouth.
Your dog’s gums and tongue should be pale to medium pink. If your dog naturally has black gums, look at its tongue. If the gums or tongue are blue, purple, white, brick colored or extremely bright red, seek veterinary medical attention immediately. This means that something is impeding the flow of blood throughout your dog's body. You can also do a "capillary refill time" test to determine if a poison is impeding your dog's blood circulation. Lift the upper lip and press above a canine tooth with your thumb. Release your thumb then watch for a color change where you pressed. The gum color should change from white to pink within two seconds. If there is significant delay (more than three seconds), check with your veterinarian. 2) Take your dog’s pulse.
If a dog’s heart rate is over 180 beats per minute, and you have any reason to suspect poisoning, seek immediate medical attention. A normal resting adult dog’s heart rate is between 70 and 140 beats per minute. Larger dogs are typically at the lower end of the scale. You can check your dog’s heart rate by placing your hand on the left side of its chest, behind its elbow, and then feeling for the heart beat. Count how many heart beats you feel in 15 seconds and multiply that number by four to get the beats per minute. If you have enough foresight, write down your dog’s normal pulse rate in a dog journal for future reference. Some dog's heartbeats beat faster by nature. 3 Take your dog's temperature with a thermometer.
The normal temperature range of a dog is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 to 39.2 Celsius). A fever does not necessarily indicate that your dog has been poisoned, but it does point to some general infirmity. If your pet is stressed or excited, you may get a falsely elevated temperature. If your pet is acting lethargic and ill and has an elevated temperature, contact your veterinarian immediately. Ask a partner to help take your dog's temperature. One person should hold the dog's head while the other inserts the thermometer into the dog’s rectum, which is found directly under the tail. Lubricate the thermometer end with petroleum jelly or water based lubricant like K-Y. Use a digital thermometer. Identifying Strange Behavior 1) Examine your dog's balance.
If your dog is staggering, disoriented, or dizzy, it could be suffering from neurological or heart problems, as well as low blood sugar caused by poisoning. Again, seek veterinary medical attention immediately. 2) Watch for vomiting and diarrhea.
Both are highly irregular in dogs. They are signs of your dog’s body attempting to expel foreign poisonous substances. Examine your dog’s vomit/stool for content, color, and consistency. Your dog’s stool should be firm and brown. If your dog’s stool becomes watery, loose, yellow, green, or deep black, contact your vet. 3) Pay attention to your dog’s breathing.
Panting is normal for dogs most of the time. It is their way of expelling heat. Heavy panting lasting for longer than 30 minutes may be a sign of respiratory or cardiac difficulty. If you can hear wheezing or crackles as your dog breathes, seek immediate veterinary medical attention. If your dog ingested something, it could be affecting its lungs. You can determine your dog’s respiratory rate by watching the dog’s chest and counting how many breaths they take in 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the breaths per minute. The appropriate respiratory rate of a dog is 10-30 breaths per minute.
