Your Pet Health Questions Answered

Doggy Exercise

Sometimes I worry that my dog doesn't get enough exercise. How much is right for him?

Good exercise should be a daily routine for your dog. The amount of exercise you give your dog is dependent on a variety of factors.

In general, young puppies are very energetic and use up a lot of energy. I usually recommend shorter distance running for them. Play with them often throughout the day and let them rest in between. I try to minimize the impact on joints (such as jumping or excessive stair climbing or running on very uneven ground) until they are generally six months or older. Some joint diseases may be related to micro-trauma in the growth phase. I feel it is best to train them at a young age for retrieval of balls or Frisbees, as this is wonderful exercise for them.

As dogs gets older and they stop growing, they can be pushed harder. This depends on the breed though. A young Border collie would be very under-exercised if he only got out for an hour a day. A Bulldog may be okay with that.

If there are destructive tendencies (chewing and/or destructive behaviour) when they are alone in the house, then the level of exercise should be increased. A gradual increase in the amount of time spent exercising is the key. Whether you run, cycle or walk, slow and steady increases will minimize the risk of injury.

Young, athletic dogs can run for hours, though care must be taken for hyperthermia (excessive body temperature) and water must be available at all times. For dogs that have joint problems, swimming is great for ease on the joints. Older dogs with health issues should be monitored well on walks. Swimming is also excellent for them. Short walks throughout the day are usually OK, but watch for any shortness of breath that may indicate heart disease. Often older dogs will have arthritic changes that will benefit from swimming as a regular form of exercise.

Constipation Cures

My cat seems to be having trouble in the litter box. He often squats in there for a while, sometimes producing only a small, hard stool. On occasion, he has vomited after this. Can you recommend anything?

It sounds like your cat is constipated. Often cats will vomit after straining to defecate. There are many reasons that may contribute to constipation, and I suggest that you see your vet to rule out any kidney problems.

If there are no obvious underlying problems, I would increase the moisture in his diet by feeding him either a raw diet or a high quality canned food. The addition of a teaspoon (five milligrams) of canned pumpkin to his food, or a quarter teaspoon (1.25 mg) of psyllium may help with this problem. As for homeopathic remedies, the following may be useful.

Alumina 200C - This is useful for sluggish bowels where pets have much difficulty in defecating. The stool can either be hard or soft. The pet may have weak muscles and/or dry skin. Often the pet prefers to be in open air such as near an open window.

Silica 200C - This is useful for stool that comes out, then recedes. Pets requiring this remedy may also be shy and timid. They tend to get chilly and therefore search for heat.

Thuja 200C - Also useful if the stool recedes. If there is a history of recent vaccination or over-vaccination as well as a history of cysts, then this may be a good choice.

Nux vomica 200C - This is a good remedy for constipation especially if the pet is irritable and thirsty. It is often useful if there is a history of drugs or food indiscretion such as overeating.

All of these remedies may be given every four to six hours for 24 hours or until symptoms improve. If the symptoms persist, I would consult with a professional.