CITY OF NEW YORK – Did you know that whippets and Italian greyhounds don’t like the cold?
Do you know how easy it is for dogs to ingest marijuana?
FOX 5 NY’s Natasha Verma spoke to chief veterinarian Dr. Jerry Klein of the American Kennel Club on what owners should know about their dogs, covering food sensitivities, effects of marijuana on puppies and protecting them during the winter. His interview is part of FOX 5 NY special “Meet the Breeds,” airing this Friday at 10:30 pm
Here’s what you need to know about your dog and diet:
Dogs like consistency and hate change. In fact, some dogs don’t do well with change.
“They don’t speak, but they tell us in their own way.” said Dr. Jerry Klein
Dr. mentioned Klein that there are many boutique diets out there, but dogs don’t really need them. Klein added that he thinks major commercial brands of dog foods are the way to go as long as they are completely balanced.
If owners want to gain a better understanding of their dogs’ diet, Klein suggests visiting AAFCO. AAFCO is a non-profit organization that sets standards for the quality and safety of animal feed and pet food in the United States.
NOTE: AAFCO does not provide veterinary medical advice or recommendations of any kind.
Klein says if you have a fast-growing puppy, especially a large or giant breed, she recommends looking for food made for a large or fast-growing puppy.
Other than that, if your dog maintains a healthy weight, produces healthy stools and has a healthy coat, Klein doesn’t recommend changing the food.
Why can some dogs have food sensitivities?
Klein says food sensitivities are actually quite common. Klein found out that her dog was sensitive to chicken.
He already had many dogs and he didn’t think they would have a problem with the chicken.
Klein says there’s a reason protein is on the dog food label. He says it’s really important that pet owners read the label and know the first three or four ingredients listed.
If your dog is constantly itching or scratching, or constantly licking its paws, talk to your vet about changing their diet, says Klein.
Marijuana and our dogs
Cannabis plants grow in a greenhouse at Vireo Health’s medical marijuana cultivation facility, August 19, 2016 in Johnstown, New York. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
“It only takes a little bit to make a small dog toxic.” said Dr. Jerry Klein
On the legalization of recreational pot, Klein said he has seen many dogs get into marijuana throughout his career. Klein says there are three ways dogs can get into marijuana:
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Inhalation of second-hand smoke: If a person smokes in a small room with a small dog, the dog can get high.
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Eating something from the street: Dogs can eat something by walking down the street or from someone’s ashtray when they are not careful.
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Owner’s food: Marijuana can be consumed in gummies, brownies or cookies.
What are the symptoms you should look out for?
Why dogs may vomit is because marijuana has antinausea properties. It also depends on how much marijuana the dog gets. Klein says to call your vet and be honest.
What should pet owners know about an elderly dog and how to care for them?
“You want to catch something before it happens.” said Dr. Jerry Klein
Klein says one thing pet owners can do before their dogs get older is to prevent them from becoming overweight.
Obesity is the number one preventable health issue among American dogs today, Klein said. He added that extra weight puts too much stress on their joints and backs.
Klein says to make sure your dog visits the vet once or twice a year to make sure nothing is developing in their thirst, urination, and behavior.
Protecting our dogs in winter:
“Don’t wait that long if your dog is shaking. Be on top of it.” said Dr. Jerry Klein
Klein says most dogs are not used to cold weather.
“If it’s too cold for us, it’s probably too cold for our dogs,” Klein said. “As they get older, they become more sensitive to it.”
Some breeds don’t like the cold, including whippets and Italian greyhounds.
Klein doesn’t believe in sweaters for dogs, but now he says they should get used to wearing them.
Owners should also be careful with rock salt. Klein says if you live in the city or any area where neighbors or commercial areas use it, be sure to clean your dog’s paws thoroughly before entering.
He suggests cleaning their feet with a hot towel or getting them a pair of booties.
“My dog, for example, when I’m not wearing booties, if it’s really cold, he starts lifting a leg or two, and he says to me. Look at your dog, read your dog, before it shows sign of authenticity. in stress” says Klein.
If it’s very cold, Klein also suggests limiting their time outside.
