If your dog has the dreaded crusties, just rub a bit (about the size of a pea or so) onto their nose. No need to work at rubbing it in, just smear it on like you would butter a biscuit. Then give them a cookie or toy to play with to distract them from licking it off. Now, even if they DO lick it off, no worries, as it is all natural and will not hurt them at all.

Reapply 2-3x a day for 2 or 3 days and then just take a bit of tissue and rub the crusties right off! It will be a gross, black, crumbly mess and the first time you see it you will be horrified that something like that was on your sweet baby’s nose – yuck is right! The nose may be a teeny bit lighter, but teh dark color will come right back in within days.

Then just use once a week or so as a preventative, maintenance level. That is it!

Here are some cold weather tips and hints for you and your dog this winter:

• Do not leave your dog outside unsupervised without a heated shelter. Just because your dog has fur, it does not mean he can be outside for hours on end with no heated shelter. Some breeds (like Newfoundlands, Huskies and Malamutes) are well suited to cold weather, but all dogs should be able to get to a warm place all the time. Most dogs do best living indoors, even the furriest of them all. If your dog has to live outdoors, make sure they have a heated bed or access to a warm place to retreat to.
• Small dogs or those with short hair should have sweaters or jackets to shield them from the cold and wind.Pretty much all of the breeds that would need nose butter would need a coat or sweater (interesting fact). Some dogs seem to revel in their adorable-ness in their new sweater while others loathe it and will fight like crazed wolverines if you try to clothe them. Respect their individuality and don’t force them to wear clothes if they hate it.
• Keep food and water in a place where they will not freeze – preferably inside! A heated dog bowl can keep outdoor water and food from freezing. Even outside dogs should be brought inside to eat and for a daily “once-over.”
• Prevent Froze Toes! If your dog will tolerate it, consider dog boots. This can keep your dog’s feet safe from dangerous objects hidden by the snow or salt on paths, roads and sidewalks. Boots can also keep your dog from slipping on ice. Of course, we recommend you buy a tin of our The Blissful Dog Toes Butter to help keep their feet soft and comfy during the winter months. We have added Mango Butter to the mix for extra emollient power.
• When walking your dog near ice, be extra careful to avoid slipping. Always keep a close watch on your dog and be sure he stays close to you. Do not allow your dog to run across frozen bodies of water – he could fall into icy water if the ice is too thin! As someone who lives on a lake in northern Minnesota, it still scares me to see trucks driving on the ice…but I still feel it is better to be safe than…you know…and I don’t allow the Frenchies out on the frozen lake.
• If you use a fireplace, always keep fireplace guard around it to keep your dog from getting too close. Even after the fire burns out they will want to play in the soot and could get burned by an ember. My Frenchies are infamous soot rollers, so we know how careful you have to be!
• If your dog is in the cold and begins shaking or shivering, get him back to warmth ASAP. If you are afraid your dog is developing hypothermia, rush him to a vet immediately.
• Do not let your dog eat snow. Dangerous objects or chemicals may be hidden in the snow. Also, eating snow this can cause stomach upset and even hypothermia.
• Antifreeze tastes good to pets and even a small amount can kill your dog. Though exposure to antifreeze is a risk all year, the risk is especially high during the colder months. Keep your eyes on your dog at all times – and keep antifreeze out of reach. If you suspect your dog has had ANY exposure to antifreeze, get to a vet right away. This is CRITICAL!

PS – This is my dear Deuce – who absolutely adored the snow, but even he came and slept in the mudroom at night!

Blatant Plug…help me eradicate this heinous condition from our dogs lives. It can be done in our lifetimes.

Below is a snippet I found on www.bobmckee.com

Nasodigital Hyperkeratosis

General Information
Nasodigital hyperkeratosis is characterized by hard, dry, and often cracked tissue on the nose or footpads. The appearance of the growths varies from regular to irregular projections of firm, feathered, and cracked horny tissue. The affected surface is dry and subject to painful and uncomfortable fissures and cracks. In many cases, just the edges of the nose or footpads are affected. In some dogs, however, the entire nose or footpad area can be affected.

Important Points in Treatment
Diagnosis is made by history and physical findings.

Other diseases can affect these areas in a similar manner and must be excluded by examination and laboratory tests.

Treatment varies with the severity of the disease and is directed at softening the dry affected tissues and occasionally trimming the excessive growth.

In most cases, once the growth is softened and trimmed to normal, ongoing treatment is either continual (one to two times per week) or occasional as the growths recur.

Once it develops, nasodigital hyperkeratosis is a lifelong condition that needs some form of maintenance therapy.

Below is a page from

Skin diseases of the dog and cat: clinical and histopathologic diagnosis

By Thelma Lee Gross, Peter J. Ihrke, Emily J. Walder

Whether we like it or not…winter is fast approaching for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. With the snow and slush comes salt on the sidewalks, ice crystals that get caught in delicate pads, and more assaults on your perfect dog’s paw pads. In our never ending quest to provide all things helpful to you and your Blissful Dog we introduce Toes Butter. I know, what a bad pun on our Nose Butter, but I just could not resist!

Packed full of organic shea butter, Young Living® aromatherapy/essential oils, Vitamin E oil, and our own The Blissful Dog vibrational essences. Just rub a small bit on your dog’s pads, then give them a treat or toy to distract them while it sinks in and voila…softer pads almost immediately! If you have white carpet, I suggest allowing it to completely sink in…keep your dog off the carpet for a short while (10-15 minutes)

I am thrilled to add this new product to our rapidly expanding line of amazing dog products.

Even though your dog may be slowing down, there is no reason the older years can’t be some of the best years. With regular veterinary attention, daily care and proper nutrition, your older dog can still experience a happy and healthy life.

Recognizing Your Dog Is Getting Older

The most practical way to tell if your dog is getting older is by observing his behavior and appearance. Simply put, how old does your dog act, look, and feel? The following are some common signs of aging and what they may indicate about a dog’s health. Use these signs as a guideline in determining if your dog is an older dog.

Changes in Hearing

You can tell if you dog’s hearing isn’t as sharp as it used to be if he doesn’t respond to his name or verbal commands, or suddenly barks for no reason.

Changes in Urination and Housetraining Habits

Excessive thirst and frequent or uncontrolled urination are often signs of kidney problems or diabetes. Inappropriate urination may be a sign of incontinence caused by a hormone imbalance, which is most common in spayed females, or caused by other medical conditions.

Changes in Eating Habits

An older dog is more likely to develop tooth and gum conditions. And because of sore gums or loose teeth, he may let food drop out of his mouth or even refuse to eat.

Breathing Problems

Coughing, difficulty in breathing and tiredness could indicate possible cardiac problems.

Changes in Vision

A hazy, bluish cast on your aging dog’s eyes is normal and usually does not hinder the eyesight. However, the hazy, whitish growth of cataracts can lead to blindness. Your veterinarian can help you distinguish the difference.

Weight Gain or Loss

Like humans, a dog’s metabolism slows down as he gets older. And because older dogs may not be as active as they used to be, they have a tendency to gain weight. Performing a rib check can help determine if he’s overweight. Sudden weight loss or unplanned chronic weight loss should be reported to your veterinarian. This could be a sign of an internal problem.

Skin and Coat

For older dogs, you’ll notice that the skin thickens and becomes less pliable. It’s a good idea to check for large lumps on or under the skin. This could be a sign of a tumor, cyst or cancer.

Tiredness and Lameness

As a dog gets older, you’ll notice a decrease in energy level. He becomes tired more easily and likes to nap often. He can experience stiffness in his leg, hip and shoulder joints. This could just be normal wear and tear, or it could be a result of an old injury or a sign of arthritis.

How Old is Your Dog?

Generally, larger dogs begin aging earlier than smaller breeds. For example, if your dog is a Saint Bernard, he could be considered a geriatric dog as early as six years. But medium-sized dogs don’t usually show signs of aging until nine to eleven years. And small breeds like toy poodles probably won’t show signs until they’re at least eleven. In addition to a dog’s breed, specific lifestyle factors affect a dog’s longevity. Note from Kathy: French Bulldogs seem to age more like larger breeds, due to their brachycephalic type.

To this end, Purina has teamed up with RealAge® to bring you valuable interactive pet health information on the Internet — the complete DogAge® Test.

The test evaluates factors such as health, lifestyle, breed, body condition and exercise to quantify whether a dog is younger or older than the average dog of the same breed. After taking the free test, DogAge.com provides free dog health information, weekly tips and health guides to give pet owners easy, practical ways to help improve their pets’ DogAges.

Take the test today http://www.dogage.com/index.aspx?cbr=PUR1_P

Proper Medical Care

Regular checkups are a must for older dogs. In addition to annual vaccinations and checkups, talk to your veterinarian about special geriatric screenings for your dog. You should be aware of some of the problems seen in the senior dog. It is important to keep a record of any of these warning signs and report them to your veterinarian.

Disease (most often affecting senior dogs)

Warning Signs

Diabetes or Kidney Problems Drinks excessively. Urinates excessively. Weight loss.
Hormone Imbalance Incontinence (uncontrolled urination). Especially present in spayed females.
Arthritis Stiffness and lameness, especially after napping.
Heart or Lung Conditions Frequent coughing. Trouble breathing. Tires easily.
Cataracts Hazy, whitish appearance to the eyes. Can impair vision.
Gum Conditions Bad breath. Trouble eating hard foods because of sore gums and loose teeth.
Tumors or Cysts Large lumps on or under dog’s skin.

Keeping Weight in Check

Heart conditions, joint pain, and diabetes can all be influenced by obesity. Discuss your dog’s feeding program with your veterinarian to be sure he is getting the proper nutrition for his age and activity level.

Proper Nutrition

Aside from regular veterinary care, proper nutrition is one of the most important things you can do to help your dog maintain a long, happy and healthy life. Transitioning your dog to a senior life stage food will help him maintain his weight and give him the extra nutrition he needs.

When Your Dog Has Special Dietary Needs

If your dog is experiencing medical problems, check with your veterinarian to see if he could benefit from a special diet formulated to help meet the special nutritional needs of dogs who suffer from certain heart conditions, gastrointestinal conditions, kidney problems and obesity.

Proper Exercise

Because obesity and arthritis are two of the most common problems experienced by older dogs, regular exercise is very important. However, if your dog does have arthritis, consult your veterinarian before beginning an exercise program.

Daily Routine

Being consistent with a daily routine is also important to your older dog’s physical, mental and emotional health.

Maintaining a Healthy Skin and Coat

As part of your dog’s complete home health care program, you may want to schedule a special grooming session at least once a week. Bathing your older dog regularly is also very important. This is another great opportunity to give your dog that loving attention he needs.

Maintaining Healthy Teeth and Gums

Routine dental care by your veterinarian is very important since older dogs are more prone to gum disease and tartar buildup on their teeth. In addition to regular visits with a professional, it’s always a good idea for you to check your dog’s teeth and gums regularly.

Emotional Needs

It is your responsibility to be sensitive to what your older dog is going through and understand that he’s also experiencing a lot of psychological changes. Daily care of your older dog requires a little more patience on your part.

With your special loving care and commitment, he can enjoy a quality life during these senior years.

MY RESPONSE: You know, actually I think it can even have a couple more causes…some dogs get into a habit of “foot-licking” like an OCD behavior. The foot may not even itch any more, but they are so used to sucking their foot…they keep doing it! It can even be a form of “self-soothing’, like some of us who overeat to soothe our emotions.

It can also be a way in which they cool themselves. Have you ever seen the Discovery Channel shows where foxes, etc. lick their feet to keep cool. The evaporative action cools them.

It can also be fungal, like an athlete’s foot, but in dogs. Or even bacterial. In either of those cases, antibiotics and steroids would have no effect on the licking. Maybe your vet could do a scraping and see if it is bacterial or fungal. If so, there are many excellent medicines available to help that.

All of these are somewhat unconventional ideas, but I have seen it and know it to be so. I wish you the very best of luck and hope this helps…

Disorientation
Wanders aimlessly around the house
Gets lost or confused in the yard or house
Becomes “stuck” in a corner or behind furniture
Does not recognize familiar people
Does not respond to their name
Appears to forget reason for going outdoors or back in

Interaction
No longer greets family members
Does not seem interested in being petted
No longer remembers once familiar tricks or commands

Sleep/Wake Patterns
Sleeps more than normal
Sleep pattern has changed, especially during the night
Marked decrease in activity level

Housetraining
No longer asks to go outside
“Goes” in the house
Appears to have forgotten why he wanted to go outdoors
Soils indoors immediately after being outdoors

As with Alzheimer’s disease in humans, the cause of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction is not completely known. In the aging process of dogs, as with humans, the accumulation of a nerve damaging protein, beta-amyloid, increases and causes the formation of plaques in the brain. This build up eventually causes a gradual decline of cognitive abilities.

Some age-related changes, like the graying of the muzzle, are inevitable. As with US, your dog may just slow down as he ages. But, dogs with CDS experience changes in behavior which are not a normal part of getting older.

The first step in diagnosing CDS is recognition of signs. When you begin to notice more than a few of the above indicators, contact your vet for a geriatric exam. A thorough examination, including a complete physical and neurological study, complemented by a medical history will allow your vet to diagnose the condition and determine an appropriate course of action. Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome is a common condition in senior dogs.

Although there is no cure for CDS, you can prolong the quality of their dog’s life and preserve their pet’s role in the family by decreasing the behavioral problems resulting from the syndrome. You may choose to use pet gates to prevent injury (i.e. stairs), using leads and fences outdoors for safety. Removing clutter from the house and yard can help your dog navigate the area easier (and de-cluttering is a GOOD thing for everyone). Dogs might also be restricted to areas easily cleaned if they are having difficulty with housetraining. But, please, do not isolate an old dog away from family just because of housetraining issues…that is just sad and mean

Currently the drug deprenyl has been shown to reduce symptoms. It is not my place to go into medications, you can Google it or ask your vet, there are lots of sites on this drug.

BLATANT PLUG ALERT: I have had great success with my more holistic approach, using my Age Well Vibrational Essences for my older dogs. I have a houseful of little grey faces, as all seven of my French Bulldogs are seniors now (where does the time go???) and I use my AGE WELL on them when needed. Just an idea! As always, I do use brandy as a preservative, if that ohers you, I can use Apple Cider vinegar Click here for more on AGE WELL.

References: The Pet Center, The Pet Place, Pfizer.com, Swiftwaterfarms.com

With over 160 million dogs and cats as pets throughout America, the environmental paw-print left by your pet is something to take seriously. Take your pet’s poo, for instance. If left behind, it can get washed from the lawn into a storm drain and the bacteria can cause water pollution. It can also spread disease to other animals and, when stepped in by humans, can cause beaches and parks to ban pets from those spaces.

But what can we do with all that poo? From “Oops I pooped!” biodegradable bags to flushing it down the toilet, check out six ways to ‘green’ your pet poo:
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/green-pet-poop.html

For some dogs with just a little fearfulness, positive conditioning can help. Every time it storms, give your dog a treat that he or she adores and sit with them and comfort them a bit, thus conditioning the dog to associate storms with yummy treats and pets. This would work for me, a candy bar would sure take MY mind off a little rain…yum. But, for dogs with more severe fear issues, this is probably NOT going to be enough.

Ok, one BIG bit of advice…do NOT go into uber-panic mode yourself, shrieking, “OMG, a thunderstorm…poor Fluffy, poor Fluffy, don’t be scared!” as you flap your hands and run around the house. This will NOT calm her down even a little, trust me. You, and other family members should stay calm, and keep your dog with you and in control. By maintaining a calm mood of presence you will be able to help yoyr dog stay calmer.

Many dogs seem to find comfort in a tight space, like a bath tub or their crate. They are seeking the security that a small or covered space can offer. There have even been some reports of success by wrapping your dog in a towel, sheet or even a shirt.

Of course, I truly believe in using my The Blissful Dog Vibrational Essences. Flower essences are dilutions from botanicals used to treat a wide variety of emotional disturbances. I also use Gemstone and Environmental Essences, as I have found the addition of the gemstone essences, especially, to add a LOT of grounding energy to the essence combinations. I would suggest HUG! or RELAX! as a wonderful addition to your arsenal for fishing fear in your dog.

For usage, I would suggest you spritz a few sprays into their water if bad weather is expected and if you are home, spritz the essences into the air over their head, allowing the mist to settle down over them. At the same time, keep a calm, in control, safe demeanor about yourself and you will be thrilled to see how YOUR calm will transmit to your dog. Just like at the dog shows, a nervous handler makes for a nervous dog…the energy travels right down the leash!

Our Great Pyrenees, Zoe, is afraid of loud noises. During hunting season, summer storms and the 4th of JUly, I dose her regularly with RELAX! and sit with her, calmly petting her and chatting with her during the worst of the storm or fireworks. She still may shiver a bit, but the frantic panting and salivating is not nearly as severe as without the RELAX!

There may be times when you just have to have a medical intervention, and if so, please consult yoyr veterinarian after you have tried some less “druggie” methods. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before trying any of these remedies to be sure that they should be safe for your particular pet.

From Lady Bee, http://inventorspot.com

One of the most common types of canine cancer and the number one cause of canine death, cutaneous mast cell tumor, has been treated with steroids and antihistamines and various human oncology drugs for years. Finally, a specific oncology drug for these specific canine cancers has been developed and approved for veterinary use: Palladia (toceranib phosphate) produced by Pfizer Animal Health Inc.

Mast cells have a positive role in helping to protect dogs from inflammation and allergies. But when overstimulated, the chemicals they release, including histamine, heparin, serotonin, and prostaglandins, can actually damage immune function. Unfortunately, what causes the tumors to become cancerous is not known.

from Veterinary Practice Newsfrom Veterinary Practice News Mast cell tumors (MCT) can appear anywhere on a dog’s body as pimply-like protuberances or egg-like bulges. There are so many appearances for the tumors, that the only way to know for sure about a skin irregularity like a bump or a pimple is to have it aspirated by your veterinarian. Most MCTs are benign, but approximately 20 percent of them turn out to be cancerous.

Cancerous MCTs are classified into three grades with grade I being the least severe and limited to the tumor itself. In grade II, the tumor has begun to metastasize, but the cancer is still considered treatable. Grade III tumors are very aggressive and may have spread through the lymph glands to other areas of the body.

Palladia was developed for grades II and III cutaneous mast cell tumors. Palladia is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and works in two ways: by killing tumor cells and by cutting off the blood supply to the tumor. In its clinical studies, approximately 60 percent of the subject dogs had their tumors “disappear, shrink, or stop growing,” according to a Pfizer researcher.

Pfizer will introduce its new canine cancer treatment to board certified veterinarians before making it available for use in early 2010.

First Cancer Drug for Dogs Approved by FDA

By VLADIMIR NEGRON June 3, 2009