Laurie' Canine Consulting

11/07/2024

Holistic Care for Dog Hot Spots 🌟🐾

🐶 Understanding Hot Spots: A Holistic Approach

Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are localized areas of skin inflammation and infection that can cause discomfort for our furry friends. These painful, red lesions often develop quickly and are typically caused by excessive licking, scratching, or biting due to allergies, irritations, or anxiety.

At Laurie' Canine Consulting , we believe in a holistic approach to managing hot spots that focus on treating the whole pet, not just the symptoms. Here are some effective holistic remedies and preventive measures to help soothe your dog’s skin and promote healing:

🔍 Causes of Hot Spots
- Allergies (food or environmental)
- Skin irritations or infections
- Anxiety or stress
- Poor grooming hygiene
- Hot and humid weather conditions

🌱 Holistic Treatment Steps
1. Identify Underlying Causes: Consult your veterinarian to determine if allergies or other health issues are contributing to the hot spots.

2. Maintain Good Grooming Hygiene: Regularly groom your dog to keep their coat clean and dry, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to hot spots.

3. Natural Cleansing: Clean the affected area gently with a mild, non-irritating cleanser.

4. Soothing Topical Treatments:
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Witch Hazel: Reduces inflammation and cleanses the area.
- Colloidal Oatmeal: Helps soothe irritated skin.

5. Prevent Licking and Scratching: Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from further irritating the area.

6. Dietary Adjustments: Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet to support skin health and reduce inflammation.

7. Anxiety Management: Provide mental stimulation and exercise to reduce stress. Consider natural calming supplements or essential oils.

8. Monitor and Follow Up; Keep an eye on the hot spot. If it doesn’t improve, consult your vet for further advice.

🌟 Conclusion
Hot spots can be a painful experience for your dog, but with a holistic approach, you can effectively manage and treat them. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out!

👉 Have you dealt with hot spots in your dog? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below!

11/05/2024

🌿🐾 Discover the Power of Animal Naturopathy for Your Pets! 🐾🌿

Did you know that animal naturopathy is an option for your pets' health care that many people are unaware of? While holistic veterinarians integrate traditional training with a variety of holistic modalities, animal naturopaths focus exclusively on promoting overall health rather than treating disease. This distinction is vital in understanding how we can best support our furry companions.

Animal naturopaths do not diagnose, treat diseases, prescribe medications, or perform surgeries. Instead, our mission is to empower pet owners by providing guidance on how to care for and make informed decisions about their pets' health. We believe that health is not merely the absence of disease but a state of vibrant well-being that requires daily attention and care.

In the world of animal naturopathy, we view illness differently. Instead of seeing the body as a vessel to be treated when problems arise, we recognize that the body has its own innate wisdom. When faced with an acute illness, we believe the body is working to eliminate "morbid matter," essentially cleaning house and striving to restore harmony. Unlike modern medicine, which often treats germs as enemies to be eradicated, we understand that germs are a natural part of our environment. The key is to support the body in a way that strengthens its defenses rather than suppressing its natural processes.

For many, health care has become synonymous with disease care—relying on doctors to provide solutions only when illness strikes. However, animal naturopathy promotes a proactive approach, encouraging pet owners to invest in their pets' health daily. This means honoring the lifestyle each species was designed for, focusing on nutrition, environment, and emotional well-being.

Nutrition is at the cornerstone of animal naturopathy. What we feed our pets is critical in keeping their bodies in balance. A species-appropriate diet is essential to maintaining optimal health and preventing imbalances that can lead to illness. Animal naturopaths recognize that as the animal's body purges itself of toxins, symptoms may manifest—like fevers or coughs. Instead of suppressing these signs, we work to support the animal's body naturally, utilizing the wisdom of nature and its various modalities.

Ultimately, animal naturopathy takes a holistic perspective, considering the whole animal and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Each symptom is viewed as a guide to uncovering the underlying cause of imbalance, rather than just a problem to be fixed. By embracing this approach, we can foster a deeper understanding of our pets' needs and empower ourselves to create a healthier, happier life for them.

Join us on this journey toward proactive pet care, where we prioritize health and wellness every day! Together, we can transform the way we care for our beloved animals. 🐶💚

11/03/2024

11/03/2024

🐕 Understanding Your Dog's Age in Human Years! 🐕

Ever wondered how to calculate your dog's age in human years? It’s more complex than just multiplying by seven! Check out this useful chart to see how age varies by dog size don't forget to save the picture 🐶

🐾Small Dogs (20 lbs or less)🐾
- 1 Year: 15+ human years
- 2 Years: 24+ human years
- 3 Years: 28+ human years
- 4 Years: 32+ human years
- 5 Years: 36+ human years
- 6 Years: 40+ human years
- 7 Years: 44+ human years
- 8 Years: 48+ human years
- 9 Years: 52+ human years
- 10 Years: 56+ human years
- 11 Years: 60+ human years
- 12 Years: 64+ human years
- 13 Years: 68+ human years
- 14 Years: 72+ human years
- 15 Years: 76 human years

🐾Medium Dogs (21-50 lbs)🐾
- 1 Year: 15+ human years
- 2 Years: 24+ human years
- 3 Years: 28+ human years
- 4 Years: 32+ human years
- 5 Years: 36+ human years
- 6 Years: 42+ human years
- 7 Years: 48+ human years
- 8 Years: 54+ human years
- 9 Years: 60+ human years
- 10 Years: 66+ human years
- 11 Years: 72+ human years
- 12 Years: 78+ human years
- 13 Years: 84+ human years
- 14 Years: 90+ human years
- 15 Years: 96 human years

🐾Large Dogs (51-100 lbs)🐾
- 1 Year: 15+ human years
- 2 Years: 24+ human years
- 3 Years: 28+ human years
- 4 Years: 32+ human years
- 5 Years: 36+ human years
- 6 Years: 44+ human years
- 7 Years: 52+ human years
- 8 Years: 60+ human years
- 9 Years: 68+ human years
- 10 Years: 66+ human years
- 11 Years: 74+ human years
- 12 Years: 82+ human years
- 13 Years: 90+ human years
- 14 Years: 98+ human years
- 15 Years: 106 human years

🐾 Giant Dogs (100+ lbs)🐾
- 1 Year: 15+ human years
- 2 Years: 24+ human years
- 3 Years: 28+ human years
- 4 Years: 32+ human years
- 5 Years: 36+ human years
- 6 Years: 42+ human years
- 7 Years: 50+ human years
- 8 Years: 58+ human years
- 9 Years: 66+ human years
- 10 Years: 74+ human years
- 11 Years: 82+ human years
- 12 Years: 90+ human years
- 13 Years: 98+ human years
- 14 Years: 106 human years
- 15 Years: 114 human years

Now you can see how your furry friend measures up! How old is your dog in human years? Let’s hear it in the comments! 🐾💖

11/02/2024

🐾 Discover the Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms for Your Dog! 🍄❤️

Did you know that certain mushrooms can provide amazing health benefits for your furry friend? Medicinal mushrooms are packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and immune-boosting properties that can support your dog's health. Here are some incredible medicinal mushrooms, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your dog's diet:

1. Cordyceps
- Benefits Boosts energy levels and enhances respiratory function. It's great for active dogs or those recovering from illness.
- How to Use Look for cordyceps in powder form and mix it into your dog’s food or treats. A typical dosage is about 1/4 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.

2. Turkey Tail
- Benefits Rich in antioxidants, it strengthens the immune system and may aid in cancer support.
- How to Use Turkey tail can be found in capsule or powder form. Add it to your dog's meals, aiming for around 1/2 teaspoon per day for every 10 pounds of body weight.

3. Lion’s Mane
- Benefits Supports cognitive health and promotes nerve regeneration, making it ideal for older dogs.
- How to Use Available as a powder or in capsules, you can sprinkle lion's mane powder into your dog’s food, starting with 1/4 teaspoon daily.

4. Maitake
- Benefits Helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports immune function.
- How to Use Maitake is often available in capsules or as a powder. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of the powder into your dog's food daily.

5. Reishi
- Benefits Known as the "mushroom of immortality," it reduces stress and boosts immune health.
- How to Use Reishi can be given in powdered form; add about 1/4 teaspoon to your dog’s meals. However, it’s potent, so consult your vet for the right dosage.

6. Shiitake
- Benefits Supports heart health and helps fight infections.
- How to Use Shiitake mushrooms can be cooked and added to your dog’s food, or you can find it in supplement form. Start with a 1/4 teaspoon of powdered shiitake.

7. King Trumpet
-Benefits Rich in antioxidants, it enhances immune function and supports heart health.
- How to Use Available as fresh, dried, or powdered mushrooms. Add 1/4 teaspoon of powder to your dog’s food or cook fresh mushrooms and mix them in.

8. Chaga
- Benefits Packed with antioxidants, it helps reduce inflammation and supports overall immune health.
- How to Use Chaga is often found in tea or powdered form. You can brew chaga tea and mix a small amount into your dog’s food, starting with 1/4 teaspoon.

✨ Important Note Always consult your vet before introducing any new supplements to your pet’s diet, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions or is on medication.

Have you tried any of these mushrooms for your dog? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below! Let’s help our furry friends thrive with the power of nature! 🐶💕

11/02/2024

🐕 Did You Know? The majority of dogs prefer using their right paw! 🐾

In a comprehensive study of almost 18,000 dogs, researchers found that 60.7% of female dogs and 56.1% of male dogs showed a preference for their right front paw when reaching for food from a tube. This subtle right-pawed tendency is fascinating, but it’s not as strong as the handedness we see in humans.

While some experts debate the implications of these findings, it raises interesting questions about how paw preferences might relate to a dog’s overall behavior. Could it influence their trainability or temperament? The jury is still out!

When examining differences between male and female dogs, it’s been observed that female dogs often excel in training and responsiveness to commands. Conversely, male dogs might exhibit more exploratory and playful tendencies.

Understanding these nuances can enhance our relationship with our canine companions and help us cater to their unique personalities. Keep exploring the wonders of dog behavior! 🐶💖

What paw does your dog prefer? Share in the comments! 🐾✨

11/01/2024

🎃🐾 Post-Halloween Safety Tips for Your Furry Friends! 🐶👻

We hope everyone had a spooktacular Halloween filled with fun, laughter, and adorable costumes! As the candy wrappers settle and the decorations come down, it's important to ensure our furry friends are safe in the aftermath of the festivities. Here are some essential tips for keeping your pets happy and healthy after Halloween:

🍬 Check for Leftover Candy:
Make sure to dispose of any leftover candy properly. Even though Halloween is over, the temptation of sweets can still be an issue. Store any remaining candy in a secure place where your pets can’t reach it. Remember, chocolate and certain artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs, so it's crucial to keep these items out of their reach.

🚪 Clean Up Decorations:
After the festivities, take some time to remove any Halloween decorations that could pose hazards to your pets. Check for small parts, wires, or decorations that could be chewed on or ingested.

🏠 Monitor Your Pet’s Behavior:
With all the excitement, some pets may feel a bit anxious or unsettled after the holiday. Keep an eye on their behavior, and provide a calm environment for them to relax. If they seem stressed, offer their favorite toys or a cozy space to unwind.

🐾 Watch for Stomach Upsets:
If your furry friend managed to sneak a piece of candy or two, keep an eye out for any signs of stomach upset. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy could indicate they ingested something harmful. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

🍂 Get Back to Routine:
Now that Halloween is behind us, it's a great time to get back to your regular routine. Whether it’s walks, playtime, or feeding schedules, maintaining consistency can help your pet feel more secure.

📸 Share Your Post-Halloween Moments!
Did your pet dress up for Halloween? We’d love to see photos! Share your favorite moments from the holiday in the comments below!

Thank you for being a part of the Laurie’s Canine Consulting and Laurie's Paws Transport family! Let’s keep our furry friends safe and happy as we transition into the holiday season ahead! 🐾❤️

11/01/2024

🎉🐶 Exciting News! 🐾

We’re thrilled to announce that Dogs By Jasmine has won the FREE dog walking session from our Halloween Costume Contest! 🎃👏

Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their adorable pup photos. Your creativity and spirit made this contest a howling success!

Stay tuned for more fun events and contests in the future. Happy Howl-O-Ween from Laurie’s Canine Consulting and Laurie's Paws Transport! 🐕👻✨

10/31/2024

🎃🐾 Happy Howl-O-Ween from Laurie’s Canine Consulting and Laurie's Paws Transport!🐶👻

This spooky season, we’re celebrating our furry friends with a little extra fun! 🕷️✨

🐾 Costume Contest Alert!
Show off your dogs in their cutest, scariest, or silliest costumes! Share a photo of your pup in their Halloween attire in the comments below for a chance to win a FREE dog walking session 🎉🐕

👻 Safety Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween:

1. Keep candy out of reach—chocolate can be dangerous for dogs!
2. Create a cozy space for your pet away from the doorbell and trick-or-treaters.
3. If your dog is joining the Halloween festivities, ensure their costume fits well and allows for easy movement.
4. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date in case they get spooked and run away.

🐕 Keeping Your Pup Calm This Halloween:
Halloween can be overwhelming for our furry friends. Here are some tips to help keep them calm:

- Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area in your home with their favorite toys and blankets. Play calming music to create a soothing environment.
- Exercise Beforehand: Take your dog for a long walk to help burn off excess energy!
- Consider Calming Products: Calming treats with ingredients like chamomile or an anxiety wrap can help soothe anxious pets.
- Short Outings: If you’re taking your dog trick-or-treating, keep outings brief and at a pace they’re comfortable with.
- Interactive Toys: If your dog is staying home, provide engaging toys or puzzle feeders to keep them occupied.

🍪 Homemade Calming Treat Recipe:
You can also make homemade calming treats for your dog to enjoy during the festivities!

Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1 cup oats
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon chamomile powder (optional)

Instructions:
1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed.
2. Form Treats: Scoop the mixture and form small balls or press into a silicone mold.
3. Chill: Refrigerate the treats for a few hours until firm.
4. Serve:Give your dog a treat before trick-or-treating or when you know they need some extra calm.

📸 Share Your Howl-O-Ween Moments!
We want to see how your pets celebrate! Post your photos with the hashtag for a chance to be featured on our page! Let’s spread the Halloween spirit together!

💌 Stay Connected:
Don’t forget to follow us for more updates, tips, and adorable pet photos! We love sharing the joy of your pets with our community!

Let’s make this Halloween a howling good time! We can’t wait to see all the adorable costumes and celebrate with your pups! 🐾❤️

Stay safe and have a spooktacular Halloween! 🎃👻

10/30/2024

10/29/2024

🚫🐾 Attention Dog Owners!🐾🚫

Did you know that raw dough can be dangerous for our furry friends? 🍞🐶 Here's why you should keep it away from your pups:

1. Expansion Risk: Raw, yeast-based dough can expand in your dog's stomach, leading to a serious condition called bloat, which can be life-threatening! 😱

2. Alcohol Production As the yeast ferments, it produces alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning. Symptoms include vomiting, disorientation, and even seizures! 🍺⚠️

3. Digestive Issues Raw dough can upset your dog's stomach, causing vomiting and diarrhea. Not fun for anyone! 🤢

4. Toxic Ingredients Many doughs contain ingredients like onions that are toxic to dogs. Always check what you're baking! ❌🧅

5. Prevention is Key Store raw dough out of reach and be vigilant while baking. If your dog gets into it, contact your vet immediately!

Let’s keep our pups safe and healthy! Stick to dog-friendly treats instead! 🐕❤️

10/28/2024

I had a great experience at Dogs By Jasmine! Jasmine was friendly and took excellent care of my old man. He came out looking fantastic and smelling great! I highly recommend them for anyone needing grooming services in the Mount Forest area!

10/27/2024

🌟🐾 Calling All Dog Lovers!🐶❤️

Do you have a kiddo who's crazy about dogs? 🐕✨ We’re looking for a host for our Kids Fun Canine First Aid workshop!

In this exciting 3-hour class, kids aged 5-10 will learn essential skills to help their furry friends, including:

- Basic dog body language 🐾
- How to recognize if a dog is feeling unwell
- First aid basics for dogs
- How to bandage a paw 🩹

Each participant will receive a child-friendly manual and a recipe for homemade dog treats! 🍗🐕

Cost: $59/child + tax

If you're interested in hosting this fun and educational event, please reach out!

👉 To inquire or register:
📧 [email protected]
📞 519-806-7595

Let’s empower our kids to be responsible and caring dog owners! 🐾💕

10/26/2024

🐾 Exciting News for Dog Owners in Fergus, Grand Valley, Orangeville, Caledon, Tottenham, and Surrounding Areas!🐾

Are you looking for a reliable and caring dog walking service? Look no further! At Laurie’s Canine Consulting, we provide personalized dog walking experiences that your furry friends will love! 🐶❤️

✨ Why Choose Us?
- Experienced, K9 First Aid certified pet sitters.
- Tailored walks to meet your dog's needs—whether it’s a quick potty break or an adventurous hour of exploration!

- With Dog Walkies app, you’ll never miss a moment! 📲✨
- Get real-time updates on when your dog is picked up.
- Receive adorable pictures during walks so you can see just how much fun they’re having!
- Track their walks and stay informed about their activity levels.

🎉 Special Offer: For a limited time, new clients receive 10% off their first dog walking service!

📅 Ready to get started? Send us a message and book your first walk with us! Your furry friend will thank you! 🐾

👉 Contact us for more details or to schedule a meet-and-greet. Let’s make your dog’s day a little brighter! ☀️

📞 (519) 806-7595
Laurie' Canine Consulting

10/26/2024

🐶✨ Meet the amazing Norwegian Lundehund, one of the rarest and most unusual dog breeds in the world! 🌍❤️

This incredible pup has at least six toes on each foot, making it super agile and limber. They can even spread their front legs wide and touch the back of their heads to their backs! Talk about flexibility! 🐾🤸‍♂️

Historically, Norwegian Lundehunds had a unique job: climbing cliffs and crawling into tunnels to catch puffins on the isolated island of Vaeroy. They’ve been doing this since at least the 1500s! However, their population faced serious challenges, and by the end of World War II, only two remained. A breeding effort in the 1960s helped, but a distemper outbreak set them back again. 😢

Today, conservation efforts are underway to cross related breeds and help expand their gene pool. As of 2022, there are only about 1,200 Lundehunds left in the world, with most found in Norway. Let’s celebrate these incredible dogs and support their survival! ❤️🐕

10/24/2024

🐾 Understanding Your Dog’s Mixed Signals 🐾

Ever wonder why your dog sometimes growls when you pet them, but then rubs up against you for more attention? 🐶 It can be confusing, but here’s what might be happening:

Mixed Signals: Dogs can feel a bit overwhelmed but still want your love.
Communication: Growling might be their way of saying they need a break or something’s bothering them.
Playfulness: Some dogs growl when they’re excited or playing.
Pleasure: Just like cats purr, some dogs growl when they’re really enjoying themselves.
Pain or Discomfort: They might have a sensitive spot that hurts when touched.
Always pay attention to your dog’s body language and the context of their growling. If you’re ever unsure, consulting a vet or a professional dog trainer can help. 🐕❤️

Do you have a dog that gives mixed signals? Share your experiences below! 👇

10/23/2024

🌟 We Want Your Feedback!🌟

At Laurie's Canine Consulting, our mission is to provide exceptional care through our pet sitting, dog walking, canine first aid workshops, and more. Your experiences are invaluable to us, and we want to hear from you!

Whether it’s the good, the bad, or the ugly, your feedback helps us grow and improve our services. If you’ve enjoyed our offerings or have suggestions for us, please take a moment to leave a review. Your insights are crucial in helping us provide the best care for your furry friends!

👉 Laurie' Canine Consulting

Thank you for being a part of our community and for trusting us with your pets! 🐾💖

10/20/2024

🌟 Looking for a Host in Stratford Connect,🌟

Hi everyone!

I recently taught a K9 First Aid course, and unfortunately, three people couldn't join us. We're looking for a host to help us organize another session. As a thank you for hosting, you'll receive a special perk!

If you're interested or would like more information, please comment below or send us a message.

Thank you!

🐾 Laurie' Canine Consulting

Pictures from the last workshop