Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

Miniature Bull Terrier

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic
Published:  April 9th, 2013
fast facts

About Miniature Bull Terrier

Weight
25-33 lb
Lifespan
11-14 years
Group
AKC Terrier
Best Suited For
Families with children, singles and seniors, apartments, houses with/without yards
Temperament
Sweet, devoted, stubborn, independent
Height
10-14 inches
Comparable Breeds
Bull Terrier, Bulldog
Miniature Bull Terrier Basics


Many people find it amazing that the Miniature Bull Terrier is an exact version of the traditional Bull Terrier, except it is downsized. The breed is affectionately known as the English Miniature Bull Terrier, the Mini Bull Terrier or the Mini Bull. This tenacious little guy simply doesn’t know that he is any smaller than his much larger look-alike. He is brave, courageous and loyal to his family.


This fun-loving clown is as playful as he is tough. Miniature Bull Terriers are athletic and energetic therefore; lots of engaging activities and toys are necessary to keep the Mini Bull happy and fit. To learn more about the Miniature Bull Terrier, please read further.


Many people find it amazing that the Miniature Bull Terrier is an exact version of the traditional Bull Terrier, except it is downsized.


Origin


The breed was developed between 1800 and 1830 in England. These stocky dogs were used to kill rats in homes and outbuildings as well as compete with others in pits. Miniature Bull Terriers were also used as family companions.

Pedigree

The Mini Bull Terrier is a descendant of the English Bulldog and the White English Terrier, which is now no longer in existence. The Miniature Bull Terrier’s body style that we recognize now was perfected by James Hinks however; he bred for white dogs. Additional colors were later introduced after the body and head type became consistent.


Food/Diet


It is best to feed Miniature Bull Terriers a high-quality dry dog food. He should be fed once daily and never be fed freely, without limitations. Mini Bulls have a tendency to overeat and become overweight so owners must be fastidious about watching their dog’s weight. Your veterinarian can assess your dog to ensure that he is at his optimum weight.


Miniature Bull Terriers are bright dogs but their attention spans are rather short.


Training


Miniature Bull Terriers are bright dogs but their attention spans are rather short. Training sessions will be more beneficial if they are kept short but are repeated often. Praise and rewards with yummy little treats work better for Mini Bulls than harsh words, yelling or discipline. Consistency is important with this breed. They can become confused if one day he is allowed to lie on the couch and the next day he is not. Being consistent, calm and assertive will help you to train your Miniature Bull Terrier into a wonderful and well-mannered companion.


Mini Bulls tend to do well in AKC Obedience Trials. Quite a few are certified as Therapy Dogs and visit people in hospitals and nursing homes. Most Miniature Bull Terriers are perfectly happy being the love of a family’s life.


Weight


Miniature Bull Terriers usually weigh somewhere between 20 and 34 pounds. Generally, they are from 10 to 14 inches at the withers in height.


Temperament/Behavior

Mini Bulls are active and equally as loving toward their family members. They love to play and run which oftentimes leads to crazy running from one side of the house to the other. This can happen for no reason apparent to the owner. Miniature Bull Terriers attach quickly to their families as well as their homes. After all, they are terriers; this means that they are territorial. They will readily accept friends into the home but will be very protective if an unwanted or threatening person shows up. This bond between Mini Bull and his family can lead to separation anxiety. With plenty of exercise and loads of interesting toys with which to play, the chance of his destroying your home and possessions decreases.


Most Miniature Bull Terriers do not get along with other dogs of the same sex. This interaction can and oftentimes, will lead to brawling. Neutering will help, in some cases. Cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and other small animals do not fare well living with Mini Bulls. Unfortunately, Mini Bulls tend to attack them so this breed is not for everyone.


Common Health Problems


Miniature Bull Terriers are predisposed to developing eye lens discoloration. This causes blindness somewhere around 3 years of age or later. Blindness is the most serious problem within the breed. White dogs tend to have a problem with deafness. Deafness does not mean that the dog cannot lead a full and healthy life. There are simply different ways to catch his attention and training will be done with hand signals as opposed to words. Sub-aortic Stenosis, Entropion, allergies and mitral valve dysplasia also occur in this feisty breed.


Life Expectancy


Most Mini Bulls live somewhere between 11 and 14 years.


Exercise Requirements


The Miniature Bull Terrier is a highly active dog. He loves to run and play. A fenced-in backyard with plenty of toys will keep him happy however; a Mini Bull is quite happy living in a large apartment provided he is walked regularly. Walks must be brisk and relatively long to keep him in great shape. Remember, he will still go rip-roaring through the house to stretch his leg muscles and… just to have fun. Without proper exercise, Miniature Bull Terriers often become destructive. They can tear up a house and destroy the furniture in no time at all. Exercise and mental stimulation through play are essential to the Miniature Bull Terrier’s well-being, as well as that of your belongings.


Mini Bulls are great family companions and will readily play with children for hours on end. They love to chase after balls and will be a great help to your child’s pitching arm! After a good game of catch, the Mini Bull will happily nap on the couch, snoring incessantly. Yes, Miniature Bull Terriers snore and they snore loudly!


Mini Bulls are active and equally as loving toward their family members.


AKC


The American Kennel Club says: “Bull Terriers were first meant to be rough, tough fighting dogs but now exhibit a much gentler, playful personality. As a matter of fact, the jovial nature and the distinctive egg-shaped head of the Bull Terrier made it an apt choice for Target ads and Anhauser Busch’s popular “Spuds McKenzie” ad campaign”. The Miniature Bull Terrier was recognized by the AKC in the Terrier Group in 1991.


Coat


Mini Bulls are shorthaired dogs. The coat has a harsh texture but it has a shiny and flat appearance. The body of the dog is so muscular that the skin is held taut over it. There are only two color varieties within the breed. They are white, where the dog can have some color on the head and colored, which can be any color, anywhere.


Grooming for a Miniature Bull Terrier owner is minimal. Brushing the coat every week will keep the Mini Bull’s coat looking clean and shiny. When the dog is shedding, daily brushing is best. Bathing should be done every other month, unless the dog is exceptionally smelly. Dry shampoo is a great product to use between conventional baths.


Puppies


Miniature Bull Terriers are certainly adorable but they can quickly become monsters. It is of the utmost importance that you begin obedience training immediately. Puppy kindergarten classes are great and will also help your dog socialize with other dogs and people. Be sure that the puppy has had his vaccinations before taking him to formal classes.

WOW
Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

More by Amy Tokic

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024
The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024
View Article
Next
Related articles
Bull Terrier

Bull Terrier BasicsWhenever you hear the word “Bull,” you probably imagine a frightening thing indeed. Who can blame you? Bulls can be scary – people run away from them as a sport in Pamplona, Spain. Bullfrogs are big, giant versions of frogs that we associate with big, loud noises. But what about the Bull Terrier? Do they live up to the Bull name or are they closer in temperament to that other popular domestic animal, the cat?Well, take one good look at the Bull Terrier and you’ll probably find out why it’s more terrier than bulldog. The rough name can be a little misleading, but as it turns out Bull Terriers can make loyal, energetic, and even fun pets that the entire family can enjoy – or can work as a great companion even if you’re the only member of your household. But does that mean a Bull Terrier is right for your own domestic situation, whatever it is? Let’s take a closer look at this unique terrier and find out what really makes its clock tick.Bull Terriers can make loyal, energetic, and fun pets that the entire family can enjoy.OriginOne look at the Bull Terrier will let you know that the breed really don’t come from such a nasty pedigree of dogs as the name might suggest. Bull Terriers look, well, a little weird. They have larger heads and smooth faces – a quality often enjoyed by the pet owners in the United Kingdom. In North America, we have to trace their origins to really understand their appeal.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Basics Some dogs have been around and beloved for so long that they have developed a classic status. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of these dogs. Considered an “old-time” breed of dog with a rich history across both American and British lineage, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a tenacious and lovable dog with heaps of courage in just about everything it does. If you’re looking for an assertive dog that will make its presence known to strangers, this is the exact breed that you’ve been looking for. Generally friendly to strangers and very eager and energetic, this dog can become an instant hit and become known as “characters” among your family and friends. Sadly, not every element of this dog breed is so bright and sunny. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier tragically gets this temperament from a rich and sometimes ugly history that included dog fighting. Although this checkered past might be a turn-off for some people while researching dog breeds, actually meeting a Staffordshire Bull Terrier will yield an unexpected friendly experience that can actually be quite endearing. If you’re looking for a city dog that is content to live in your apartment and sit alone for hours at a time, you should probably move on. For a variety of other tastes, however, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a perfect companion. So, is The Staffordshire Bull Terrier the right dog to bring home to your family? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Everything that you could possibly want to know about this remarkable animal is about to be revealed. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a tenacious, lovable dog with heaps of courage in just about everything it does. Origin Originating in Staffordshire, England over a hundred years ago, the dog was originally bred out of Bulldogs and smaller terriers like the Manchester Terrier – thus giving the dog its entirely appropriate name of “Staffordshire Bull Terrier.” As Bulldogs could not be used for dog fighting in those days, a new breed with similar tenacity was required, but after dog fighting was finally made outright illegal, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier lived on as an excellent worker and companion dog. Eventually, the breed gained recognition by the British Kennel Club in 1935, and it wasn’t long before the Staffordshire Bull Terrier became a favorite at the shows, winning championships early on in its recognized history. Today it is considered a perfectly solid candidate at dog shows and can definitely win big points with an assertive personality. A well deserved happy ending for a pooch that didn’t have the happiest origin story.

Bull Terriers 101 With Music Geek Alan Cross

Did you know that Bull Terriers are an addiction? That’s why Alan Cross couldn’t just stick with one – he had to have two of these addicting dogs! A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to spend the day with music geek Alan Cross and his two Bull Terriers, Schmooze and Squirt. If you’re Canadian, you know Alan from his time on The Edge 102.1 (CNFY), his syndicated radio series The Ongoing History of New Music, and any of his alternative music tomes (my fave is The Alternative Music Almanac… Alan even signed my copy [*insert fangirl squee here]). I learned a lot about Alan and his Bull Terriers that day. For example, Schmooze likes the taste of body lotion, and will lick your chest for five minutes straight to get it all off. She’ll also sit on your legs for the duration of an interview because she has no idea she’s not a lap dog. Get ready to fall in love with the Bull Terrier breed (and Alan’s okay, too) – watch the video below!

Top 10 Best Small Dog Breeds for Kids

The kids have been begging you for one, but you live in cramped quarters. It might seem impossible for you to bring a dog into your family, but trust us. This is not a problem. You just need a dog that will fit your small space. Here are our choices for the top 10 best small dog breeds for kids. All kids love dogs. That’s a fact. The only problem is that not all dogs are well suited to be around children. So, if it’s time to grow your family with a pet for the kids, but they’re still young, your backyard is small (or non-existent), and you aren’t sure which breed would be the right fit, there is a simple solution. Small dogs. They are like big dogs, just smaller (what a concept!). However, small dogs don’t always have the best reputation. Rumour has it that little dogs can be high-strung and aren’t good with kids. Thankfully, that’s just a rumour. Sure, there are some little dogs out there who won’t mix well with children, but there are also big dogs with the same problems. It all comes down to finding the right dog to fit your family. There are a number of pint-sized pooches that will ably fit the bill an mix with kiddos. It’s just important to keep in mind that you’ll want a dog that is sturdy enough to withstand the rough-and-tumble playtime a child will deliver, is friendly, even-tempered, and more importantly, is easy for both you and your kids to train. Always remember that establishing kids as mini-alphas through early training is crucial in order to ensure their commands are obeyed (especially if walking the family pet will become part of their current or future responsibilities). So, while choosing the right dog to fit in with your family is important, it’s equally important to train your pup properly so that it fits in well with your entire family. Nature and nurture both play important roles finding the perfect pupper match for any family. With these criteria in mind, here are our picks for 10 best small dog breeds for kids. All of these adorable little fur babies has the potential to be the perfect pooch for your home. 10. Miniature Bull Terrier

Pitbull

Pitbull Basics There are few dogs out there more controversial than the Pitbull. Many people believe that the Pitbull is a wonderful family companion while others believe that this hybrid needs to be banned from their communities. The truth is that most Pitbulls, like all other dog breeds, are absolutely reliable pets that are great with kids and love people. Most of their bad reputation can be attributed to bad owners and irresponsible tabloid journalists. It’s certainly not the fault of any Pitbulls out there, who are absolutely wonderful pets as long as they are bred and trained responsibly. Those who want to have a Pitbull as a member of their families must do their research. Buying a Pitbull on the corner or through the local classifieds ads is a risky situation. It is essential that the buyer talk to the breeder extensively about his experiences and hopes for this hybrid breed. They should ask about health clearances as well as meet both of the parents and any other relatives on the premises. Because of the bad breeders of “Pitbulls”, it is important that the potential buyer be knows everything about the breed before bringing a Pitbull into his household. Is a Pitbull the right dog to bring into your home? Possibly, but there are many factors to consider. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Keep your eyeballs glued to this page and scroll away to find out if these dogs are the right choice for you! Pitbulls are reliable pets that are great with kids and love people. Origin Nobody really knows the exact origin of the Pitbull began. According to most sources, it seems that this dog breed was a result of breeding bulldogs with terriers to create a new hybrid. The goal of the breeders was to produce a dog that would feature the strength of the bully breeds complemented by the perseverance and agility of the terrier. The reason why these particular traits were desirable was that the new hybrid was supposed to excel in bull baiting and bear baiting, two gruesome “sports” that were particularly popular in the 16th century. By the 18th and 19th centuries, a distinct breed of dog was popular in England – the bull-and-terrier. Sadly, the breed was mostly – if not exclusively – used for rat baiting and dog fighting. It is now commonly believed that the bull-and-terrier was the breed of origin for the Pitbull, which later evolved from mixing in the United States. These origins are sad and unfortunate, but they do explain where the Pitbull’s bad reputation comes from. These dogs shouldn’t be judged by the sad things that humans have trained them to do. They are so much more than that. While these two aggressive main traits certainly can be seen in Pitbulls today, it doesn’t mean that these dogs are inherently violent. The strength and the tenacity can be wonderful traits if directed towards a productive activity, rather than exploited for violence. This is yet another reason why Pitbulls deserve revaluation from dog lovers everywhere. Luckily, time showed its prettier side, and the practice of dog fighting and similar bloodsports were banned in most places around the world. With that, pitbulls got a long-deserved chance to show their true face and a kinder, protective side – one that we can see and enjoy today. Pedigree

Wildlife Center Wears Fox Masks When Caring for Orphaned Cubs

Bonding with an orphaned kitten or puppy is fine, not so much when you're caring for wildlife.

Martha Stewart's Persian Cat, Empress Tang, Crosses the Rainbow Bridge

Loss of lifestyle guru's 15-year old fur kid now leaves her feisty feline, Blackie in charge.

Media Maven Martha Stewart Gets Push Back Over Dog Food Recipe

Use of "home-grown" meat draws ire from followers and falls on the heels of last year's negative press.

Plumber's Hilarious Cat Rescue Mishap Goes Viral

It’s every cat parent’s worst nightmare—your cat escaping while work is being done at the house. Luckily for Winchester plumber Scott McKendry and his client, a recent alleged escape attempt had a happy ending. However, a Ring doorbell video of the plumber’s attempt to retrieve the cat has gone viral and inspired more than a few laughs! When arriving to work at a client’s house, McKendry was given strict instructions not to let the cat, Bertie, outside under any circumstances. You can imagine the fear and concern when he walked outside and discovered the cat casually strolling down the road. He quickly acted, catching the escapee and attempting to bring him back indoors. Unfortunately, the cat was less than enthusiastic about this plan. Unable to juggle both the unimpressed cat and the door handle, the plumber is forced to ask for help. It appears that all is well, with the cat safely home, when, in a hilarious turn of events, the door is opened to reveal Bertie already inside. That’s right! The entire ordeal centered around a completely different cat – Bertie’s doppelganger.

Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables

Does your cat’s breath make you want to hold yours whenever it gets a little too close? It doesn’t have to be that way.

More And More Pets Are Having Allergies, Trupanion Reports

The time when spring blooms and summer comes to the doorstep is an idyllic period for most, but a lot of people dread this time of the year because of seasonal allergies that cause s lot of sneezing, headaches, and all-around discomfort. Now, it seems, it’s not just us humans that can experience nasty spring allergies – data indicates that our four-legged best friends are also affected by them. Dogs, in particular, are very susceptible to  spring allergies and are increasingly treated for their symptoms, such as itchy skin.Are All Dogs At Risk for Spring Allergies?It is important to be aware that the trees and flowers that bloom in spring can be a source of allergies for your pet. Not only are spring allergies very uncomfortable for dogs, but they can potentially lead to many secondary issues, the most dangerous of which is a skin infection.And if you think that chances for a spring allergy affecting your dog are low, consider a recent report issued by the pet insurance company Trupanion. They claim that there was a 45% increase in allergy claims for insured pets over the course of four years since 2019. This means that allergies are on the rise, both for pets and their owners. In fact, as  Axios reports, according to the insurer Nationwide, spring allergies are at the top of the list of health conditions that end in vet visits. Another key fact is related to allergy drugs. Since two of the major allergy drugs were released in 2013 and 2018, more than 20 million dogs have been treated by them, in an effort to battle spring allergy effects. Of course, if you suspect that your pet is suffering from a spring allergy, it is key to visit your vet as soon as possible. Depending on the effects, your vet can prescribe topical, injectable, or chewable treatments that help reduce  itchiness and other issues. And, considering that such allergies are seasonal, be ready for them with the arrival of spring and the blooming of trees. Learn to spot the symptoms such as itchiness, and to react quickly!

What Happens if Dogs Eat Cat Food?

A multi-pet household is always full of adventures, and even more so when you have both cats and dogs. While there are many fun aspects to sharing your life and your home with multiple pets, there are quite a few challenges, as well – such as making sure everybody’s keeping their nose in their own food bowl. We all know that dogs tend to have healthy appetites and are not picky, which means they’ll often try (and succeed) in eating cat food when given the chance.While not the  worst thing a dog can eat when sharing a home with a cat (litter and its contents seem to be irresistible to some canines), kitty kibble certainly isn’t the best type of food for your dog, either. But what happens if dogs eat cat food? Can it be harmful to them? And are cat and dog foods really that different? Here’s what you need to know.What Happens if a Dog Eats Cat Food?Let’s face it: if a dog eats cat food occasionally, it's usually not a cause for concern. The worst that can happen is an upset stomach or a bit of diarrhea. The main cause is the fact that cat food is formulated differently from dog food, containing higher levels of protein and fat, which can be harder for dogs to digest. If a dog eats cat food regularly, however, it can lead to digestive issues such as upset stomach, diarrhea, or even  pancreatitis due to the higher fat content. In other words, sneaking food from the cat’s bowl once or twice won’t be an issue – but repeated consumption most definitely will. What is more, cat food lacks certain nutrients that dogs need in their diet, such as adequate levels of vitamin E and taurine. So, while an occasional nibble might not harm your dog, it's best to prevent regular access to cat food to avoid potentially considerable health problems.Another reason why doggos should steer clear of cat food on a regular basis is weight gain. Cat food has a quite higher fat content, which can lead to weight gain in dogs. All the excess weight (which can pile up quite quickly) will lead to a lot of health issues, like diabetes or joint issues. If your pooch likes to sample cat food, they might also experience an upset stomach, resulting in vomiting or diarrhea. This is because cat food contains much more protein than the usual dog food. Higher levels of protein are harder to digest for dogs, and this results in gastrointestinal discomfort. A home remedy for an upset tummy in dogs – if it’s due to eating a bit of kitty food – could be providing  dog probiotics in combination with a bland diet for a day or two, until they’re feeling better. 

What Do I Do If My Dog Eats Wild Mushrooms?

If you hike or adventure with your dog, you have likely encountered wild mushrooms during your travels – especially now that we are entering the autumn season. But here’s the problem: they’re not always safe for our furry friends. As dog parents, it’s our responsibility to learn about the dangers that wild mushrooms may pose to our dogs and how to keep them safe. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about wild mushrooms, including how they could spell trouble for your dog and what you should do if your pup decides to chow down one of these potentially toxic fungi. Recognizing the signs of mushroom toxicity and knowing what steps to act promptly could make all the difference. So, let’s dive into the world of wild mushrooms and get you prepared to protect your canine companion. Can Mushrooms Harm a Dog? There has been a lot of talk recently about the benefits of medicinal mushrooms for both humans and pets. While studies and research are still being conducted to fully understand the impact mushrooms can have as a supplement or alternative treatment option, it’s clear that some fungi can be incredibly helpful. Still, there are also a few that are highly toxic both to us and our furry friends. The challenge when discussing wild mushrooms is that most dog parents aren’t foraging experts with a knowledge of which mushrooms are edible and which are not – and our dogs certainly aren’t educated on the topic! If you are out hiking and your dog discovers a mushroom on the side of the trail, you likely aren’t going to know in advance whether it’s toxic or not. In fact, if you have a high-energy dog like we do with our pup Lucifer, you may not even have the opportunity to see the mushroom enough to identify it before it has been ingested. This means leaving the possibility that it could be a toxic variety up to chance. For this reason, it’s safer to steer clear of wild mushrooms entirely. Does this mean that your grocery store mushrooms are dangerous? No. If you have purchased mushrooms to cook up for dinner and you want to share one with your dog, they are safe. They are healthiest when offered raw, but if you do cook them, ensure they are unseasoned, as the seasoning could upset your dog’s stomach. They can also be found in some foods, treats, supplements, and bone broth products. What Does Mushroom Toxicity Look Like in Dogs? While we have established that allowing your dog to eat wild mushrooms is unsafe, the hard truth is that we can’t always control the situation. Simply looking away for a matter of seconds may be all it takes for your dog to find and grab a mushroom on the side of the road, on a trail, or even in your backyard. For this reason, we must ensure that we are familiar with the signs of mushroom toxicity to recognize the problem and react as quickly as possible. There are four categories of toxic mushrooms: GastrointestinalMushrooms in this category primarily impact your dog’s digestive system. They act quickly, showing signs in as little as 15 minutes after ingestion. These are the most common signs your dog has ingested a gastrointestinal mushroom: Excessive drooling Upset stomach Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea NeurotoxicThese mushrooms cause neurological symptoms and, if not addressed quickly, can often be fatal. Signs often show approximately 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion. The most common signs that your dog has eaten a neurotoxic mushroom include: Digestive upset Weakness Agitation or anxiety Loss of coordination Unsteady gateAppearing confused or disoriented Tremors Seizures HepatotoxicThese mushrooms are significantly more dangerous than the first two categories. They are slower acting, with symptoms appearing as long as 12 hours after eating the mushroom. They begin by upsetting the digestive system and may be initially mistaken for a gastrointestinal mushroom. However, after time, they will start to impact the function of your dog’s liver, leading potentially to liver failure and death if not addressed. Nephrotoxic Finally, this category is very similar to hepatotoxic mushrooms in that it begins as a digestive upset. If unaddressed, these mushrooms can cause kidney failure or acute renal damage. What Do I Do if My Dog Ate a Wild Mushroom? If you notice any of the above symptoms of mushroom toxicity in your dog, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic as soon as possible. If there are multiple mushrooms in the area and you can take a sample for identification, it may help provide valuable insight. While no treatment can instantly fix the toxicity, your veterinarian can provide your pup with supportive care. This will begin with inducing vomiting and/or giving your dog activated charcoal to remove or cancel out the poison and prevent further damage. The vet will monitor your dog while providing supportive care to address symptoms or complications of the toxicity, such as IV fluids to prevent dehydration and anti-nausea medications to settle digestive problems. This takes the unnecessary strain off the body, significantly boosting your dog’s chance of survival.

First-ever Canine Parvovirus Treatment Offers Hope for Sick Puppies

Parvovirus - a single word no dog owner wants to hear. Canine parvovirus is one of the most deadly conditions that affect thousands of puppies in the U.S. yearly.Until now, there has been no specific cure for parvovirus, with treatment relying on supportive care. But that changed in May when USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment.Developed by Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, the Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody is a single-dose intravenous injection that has been shown to reduce the length of hospital stay and increase the survival rate of dogs diagnosed with parvovirus. In Elanco’s clinical trials, “zero dogs died when treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody,” said Kristen Zersen, DVM, DACVECC, assistant professor of small animal emergency and critical care at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. That’s fantastic news considering that parvo’s mortality rate is around 91% for dogs not treated with supportive care.While the treatment efficiency study focused on eight-week-old puppies, Zersen said that safety studies have shown that the treatment is well tolerated by puppies as young as six weeks old. “The puppies treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody had significantly faster times to resolution of vomiting, inappetence, and lethargy,” said Zersen. Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody is the first and only treatment available for parvo which affects around 330,000 dogs each year. Administered intravenously in a single dose, this groundbreaking treatment works by binding to the virus directly, preventing it from entering into host cells. Another great thing about this treatment is that it can be given to dogs at any stage of the disease. The effects of the treatment may vary from one dog to the next but according to Zersen, “Overall the treatment makes for less time, less worry, and less labor helping the dog to feel better faster.”That’s a positive change considering how this deadly disease has been treated in the past. “Traditional canine parvovirus treatment can consist of 24/7 care, three to five days of hospitalization, high pet owner costs, and emotional stress with no guaranteed outcome,” explained Zersen. “Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody offers a targeted solution. Dogs are treated with one intravenous dose that’s highly effective and proven to decrease mortality and may provide faster resolution of the symptoms of this potentially deadly disease.”Elanco expects to obtain full USDA approval in 2024, but veterinarians are able to get the medicine in the meantime. An eight-week-old pit bull mix was one of the first to receive this lifesaving treatment and knows exactly how effective monoclonal antibodies are. As soon as Cookie started to show symptoms of parvo, including lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, her owner brought her to the Fix Project’s Parvo ICU.There, a test confirmed that Cookie has, indeed, contracted parvo. Cookie received Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment and was admitted to the ICU for supportive care. “We gave the injection, placed a catheter, and gave her the rest of our protocol. And the beautiful part about the drug was we had her in and out. We parvo tested her on Friday, and she came back strong positive. By Sunday, she was eating. And then by Monday, we parvo tested her, and she was going home that day,” Dr. Andrew Cabrera, veterinarian and medical director at The Fix Project, told People in an interview. Cookie was one of the first pups to be treated with Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment, but she wasn’t the last. Dr. Cabrera shares he has seen similar results in parvo cases he has treated. “The success rate has been night and day,” he said. “We are able to get them eating a little faster and out of the hospital a little more quickly.”Hopefully, vets around the country will include Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment in current parvo protocols to increase the survival rate and reduce hospitalization time.

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

It's a Match! Winnipeg Rescue Intro's Doggie Dates

Prospective owners can sweep their prospective partner away for the night, a weekend, or a week, before deciding to commit.

Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

What Causes Heartworm in Dogs?

One of the most dangerous threats to the health of dogs around the world is the dreaded  heartworm. Most people are not even aware of the illness, until it is too late for  treatment and the damage has already been done. In fact, many dog owners are not at all familiar with heartworm, how it occurs, how it progresses, and what causes it in the first place. That’s why we’ll go into all of the details every dog owner should know about heartworm. What Is Heartworm Disease in Dogs and What Causes It?Heartworm disease in dogs is caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria Immitis. These are most simply put, heartworm larvae, and are carried within mosquitos. And that’s how they are transmitted – through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito, carrying a heartworm larva, bites a dog, it immediately transmits the larvae onto the dog’s skin. This is how the heartworm enters the bloodstream, through the teeny tiny mosquito bite wound – yes, that is how incredibly small these larvae are. After this, over the course of several months, the deposited larvae mature and grow into adult worms that nest and reside within your dog’s heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Once they become adults and enter the animal’s system, these worms can really cause substantial damage to the lungs, heart, and even other organs. This damage is then manifested through visible symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, difficulty breathing, coughing, and – in the most extreme cases – heart failure. Heartworm needs to be treated. Otherwise, this disease can be fatal to dogs. Of course, your most common precaution is through regular use of heartworm preventatives, as well as minimizing exposure to mosquitoes or mosquito-dense areas. This can help protect your doggo from contracting a potentially deadly disease. Preventing And Treating Heartworm Disease in DogsThis being said, we need to take into account that heartworm disease won’t be common in all parts of the world equally. The disease is prevalent in parts of the world with warm or humid climates, and high populations of mosquitoes. This is not an exclusive rule, however, and the disease can occur in all parts of the world, including temperate zones. As a diligent dog owner, you should get familiar with your region and if needed, take precautionary measures. If you live in an area where there are a lot of mosquitoes, you can invest in things like mosquito repellents for dogs. 

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2024  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.