Fashion Wear, Spa Treatments, and Serious Essentials For your Mastiff By Karen Cornelius this WinterWinter is well upon us, bringing winds, snow and plummeting Muttluks: Rated at or near the top of several Best Producttemperatures to most parts of the country. Keeping our lists, as well as customer reviews. The winter favorite for giantMastiffs warm, dry and comfortable is a top priority for most breeds is the Original Fleece-Lined Muttluks, $63 for a set ofowners. Coats and boots are perfect solutions to add coziness four. Sizes -- up to XXL (4¾”length - 5¼” width). (pictured)and protection to winter walks or outdoor play. However,your Mastiff doesn’t need to look frumpy or out of style this Neo Paws: A full line of innovative and easy-to-use productsseason. Here are some fresh, new fashion-forward ideas that with the animal's safety, comfort and performance in mind.can accommodate a less than svelte physique: Neoprene Orthopaedic High Performance™ Dog Boots: Sizes -- to XXL (5” length – 3.75” width). $40 for one pair (XXL).Chic coats for giant breeds: Spa Treatments and Skin Care:Motley Mutts: Offers three lines of coats with stylish flair,that can fit 200lb to 300lb Mastiffs. Price range: $65 to $115. Who doesn’t enjoy pedicures and “facials”? For our Mastiffs there are luxurious but practical treatments to sooth, hydrateHerculean Coat: All Weather Coat made with breathable, and protect paws and noses from winter assaults:water repellent denier nylon outer. Insulated, lined in nylon.Front and undersides secure with adjustable Velcro closures. Musher’s Secret: If our Mastiffs will not tolerate boots, this product, mentioned in our TCVM article, can be applied priorPolar Winter Coat: Features thick, warm “polar fleece” – to walks. It forms a semi-permeable “shield of protection”which may be accessorized with a fleece neck-warmer. against snowballing between toes and cracked pads. $12.25 for 60 gram jar. (pictured)All Weather Woodland Woods Winter Coat: Constructedwith a tough snag resistant Cordura outer, a waterproof coating Bag Balm: “Contains rich shea and mango butters, pluson the inside of the outer, a warm insulating layer and a warm avocado and coconut oils to moisturize your dog’s hard workingpolar fleece lining. (pictured) feet, whilst soothing herbs like calendula, rosemary and aloe vera, along with Vitamin E, help tender foot pads feel good fast.”Note about this company: Customer reviews have been either It is also effective in soothing chapped noses. $7.49 for 8 oz.extremely positive or negative. Positive reviews have focussedon the quality, fit and longevity of the products, as well as friendly Dermoscent Bio Balm®: Available through Amazon and otherservice and quick delivery. Negative reviews have generally distributors. “The balm, which is water-resistant, nourishes andcomplained about receiving the “wrong” size (too big) and protects the paws and nose, and it helps treating calluses (alsothe company’s refusal to accept returns of fleece products for referred to as callous skin), particularly pressure point calluses,hygienic reasons. For the best possible fit, it is vital to actually at elbow level.” From $17 to $21 for 50 ml.measure your Mastiff rather than making a “guesstimate”. Thisand policies on fleece returns are clearly stated. Comfort:Hefty Hounds: Clothing line for big dogs. During bitterly cold winter months, our Mastiffs – particularly those with arthritis -- may enjoy a heating pad after an adventureZack and Zoe: Products fit dogs up to 25” neck, 37” chest in the snow or simply attending to nature’s call. In the event ofand 30” length. power outages, self-heating pads may be important items to have on hand.Equine Supply Shops (Tack Stores): Some Mastiff ownershave found tack stores in their area that carry lines of dog coats Again, Drs. Foster and Smith offer a highly rated Self-Warmingas well as pony or foal winter blankets (coats) that fit Mastiffs. Crate Pad that may be used in dog crates or tucked on top of dog beds. This comfortable, one inch thick, soft microfleece pad offersBoots: an inner thermos-reflective layer that radiates your Mastiff’s body heat back to her. Slit corners provides a custom fit forWhilst our Mastiffs are not often called upon to strut their most crates; and a non-slip bottom keeps it in place. $45.99 for astuff down the runway, they can complete their “winter look” 37\" x 54\" pad.with boots. In addition to making our “fashionista” Mastiffs andowners happy, on a practical level, boots provide vital protectionagainst snow balls lodged in toes, cracked pads, frostbitten toesand chemical burns from non-pet-friendly de-icers. They alsogive traction on icy surfaces. The main challenge in selectingboots is our Mastiffs' somewhat less than dainty paw sizes.49 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review
Winter Essentials:In winter, parts of our country may experience extendedperiods of power outages and/or households being “snowedin” for days. Coping with an ill or injured Mastiff under suchcircumstances can be a frightening prospect. The AKC, ASPCA,and veterinary associations recommend that owners (of allbreeds) prepare and maintain an emergency first aid kit for sucheventualities. Whilst there are kits available on various websiteswhich you can “Google”, these organisations, as well as manyveterinarians and owners advise that it is generally better tomake up your own kit with essentials relevant to your breed.Suggestions for contents: Batteries, flashlight, cotton balls and All Weather Woodland Woods Winter Coatswabs, scissors, tweezers, sterile gauze pads and bandages, first Musher’s Secretaid tape, antibacterial ointment, hydrogen peroxide (an effectiveemetic), rubbing alcohol, antiseptic wipes, a muzzle, extraleash, a splint , styptic powder to stop bleeding, Pepto Bismol,prescription medications (for you and your pets), sterile latexgloves, eye wash, a book on human and pet first aid, mineraloil, buffered aspirin, Benadryl, a blanket, a large bottle of water,self-activating hot pack, self-activating ice pack, HydrocortisoneCream, copies of veterinary documents, and a thermometer.Additionally, experts recommend that a seven day supply offood and water should be kept on hand, as well as hot waterbottles and a “space blanket”.As Mastiffs are a breed prone to GDV (bloating), experts Muttluksalso recommend that a “Bloat Kit” should be preparedfor emergencies.This should include:1. 1/2 inch (inside diameter) x 6 feet, clear, non-toxic, vinyl tube (outside diameter = 5/8 inch). 1.25 cm x 182 cm (outside diameter = 1.6 cm)2. 1/4 inch (inside diameter) x 6 feet, clear, non-toxic, vinyl tube (outside diameter = 3/8 inch). .60 cm x 182 cm (outside diameter = .95 cm)3. 2×2 wood block, 8 inches long with 3/4 inch diameter hole in center. 5 cm x 5 cm x 20 cm (1.90 cm diameter hole)4. Water-soluble lubricating jelly, such as K-Y jelly5. 2 feet (61 cm) of soft nylon cord, or an old soft nylon leash6. Electrical tape to mark tubingIt is imperative to know how to utilize the Bloat Kit—(novices mayinsert the tubing into the trachea instead of the esophagus, withdisastrous results) – hence please attend to instructions found athttp://www.kifka.com/Elektrik/BloatFirstAid.htm.Where to find more information about the featured products: 50Motley Mutts: https://motleymutt.com/shop/p69/herculean-dog-coatsHefty Hounds (http://www.heftyhounds.com/product-category/coats/)Chewy Zack and Zoe Noreaster Dog Blanket Coat: https://www.chewy.com/zack-zoey-noreaster-dog-blanket-coat/dp/136390Bag Balm: http://www.bagbalm.comMusher’s Secret: http://musherssecret.netDermoscent Bio Balm®: http://www.dermoscent.com/en/p108-dermoscent-bio-balm.htmlDrs. Foster and Smith Self-Warming Crate Pad: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=25004Muttluks: https://muttluks.com/collections/dog-bootsNeopaws: https://www.neopaws.com MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review
{w iwntaerrnings Walk with Caution While they enjoy frequent walks, By Sarah Laidlaw winter can be especially dangerous for dogs if let off leash, particularly in unfamiliar places. Dogs can easily lose theirAs the seasons change, we begin to think about the scent in snow and ice and if separated from their companionsapproaching winter weather – the cold, wind, snow, and can become disoriented and lost, especially in a snowrain – and its impact on humans, but what about our canine storm. A well-fitting collar with identification is essentialcompanions? Dog owners are well aware of the dangers of and microchipping even better. Be careful around ponds,leaving pets (and children) in hot cars during the heat of lakes, and streams as the frozen surface may be deceptivesummer, but what about cold weather dangers? and your dog may fall through the ice. Avoid letting them run on icy surfaces as they may slip and injure themselves.Prevention { Traveling {We often think that animals with a thick coat are notsusceptible to winter’s wrath, however that is far from Just as hot cars pose a danger, cold cars can be a threat tothe truth. Dogs with thicker coats may have a greater animals that are very young, old, ill or thin. A warm car willcold tolerance, but they are still at risk for cold weather cool down and become like a refrigerator, quickly chillingissues. You should never shave a dog in the winter as the your dog. And, never leave your dog, no matter their health,coat provides warmth and protection. However, trimming in an unattended running car with the heater.longer hair around the feet and legs may minimize collectionof snow balls, ice and chemicals. Wellness checks and Health { Make sure that your dog has regular preventive healthShort-haired dogs may benefit from a coat or sweater, exams and that vaccinations or titers are up to date. Somebut never let a wet coat remain on as it may cause them medical conditions such as arthritis can be worse in theto become chilled. Proper fitting booties may also be winter, so a pre-winter check may be beneficial. This wouldbeneficial to dogs who have sensitive feet and may help be a good time to make sure that any other conditions yourprotect against frostbite. But, since frostbite of the ears is dog might have are treated or under control.also a concern, don’t leave your dog outside for extendedperiods. Additionally, dogs with health conditions such as diabetes, heart or kidney disease or hormonal issues many have a moreMake sure any snow or ice between the toes and pads of difficult time regulating their body heat. It is important tothe feet is removed. Towel dry your companion if they have pay attention to signs that your dog may becoming chilledgotten wet from snow or rain. If you suspect they may – shivering, anxiousness, slowing down, trying to burrow. Ithave been exposed to chemicals from treated sidewalks is important to get them back inside quickly.or roads, lightly wash them off to remove any unwanteddeicers, antifreeze or other harmful substances. Shelter If it is too cold for you to be outside, it is probably too cold for your dog. However, if he/she must be outsideAntifreeze, like coolants, is lethal to dogs. Wipe up any for longer periods of time, use a heated water bowl to makespills immediately and keep it and all household chemicals sure there is access to drinking water that is not frozen.in a place that dogs cannot reach. Consider antifreeze made Also provide your dog with a warm, solid shelter with thewith propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Deicers door positioned away from prevailing wind. A raised floorand rock salt can be a problem as well and should be used in with thick dry bedding, changed if it becomes wet, shouldareas where pets will not walk, or consider a pet safe type. be used to maintain warmth.If your dog does pick up any of these in their feet, washtheir feet immediately, dry well, and make sure that there Never use heat lamps or space heaters as they couldare no chemicals lodged between their pads and toes. become dislodged and cause a fire and/or result in burns to your companion. Likewise, use heated pet mats withAs with humans, cold dry weather can result in flaking, itchy caution.skin. Chapped paws, another menace, can be preventedwith petroleum jelly or paw pad protectants before going Feed well – but not too well Some owners think that a littleoutside. Low humidity and a warm house can exacerbate extra weight during the winter can be protective, howeverdry skin conditions especially when going in and outside the risks outweigh the benefits. Feed your dog enough torepeatedly. Avoid regular bathing of your dog as it can keep him/her at a healthy weight all year. If they are outsideaggravate already present skin issues and remove essential for extended periods of time or go for long walks in the cold,oils from the coat. If you must bathe your dog regularly, they may benefit from a little extra food for the additionalask your veterinarian about a moisturizing shampoo or coat calories they need to stay warm, but never in excess.conditioner. Be prepared In some parts of the country, blizzards and power outages can pose a risk for extended periods of cold and darkness. Have an emergency kit for your pet with extra medications, food, and water for at least five days.51 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review
Holiday HazardsWeather is not the only danger to your dog during the Additional Resources:winter. Holiday festivities mean extra precautions shouldbe taken to keep your dog safe. Decorations, ornaments, Cold Weather Safety Tips | ASPCAplants, well-meaning gifts and table scraps can all pose a www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cold-weather-safety-tipshealth risk. Winter Care for Canines | American Kennel Club www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/winter-care-for-canines/Keep popular plants such as amaryllis, holly, mistletoe, and Cold Weather Pet Safety | American Veterinary Medicalpoinsettias out of reach of pets. Also keep chocolate and Associationcandies, seasonal foods, and alcohol away from pets. Not www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Cold-weather-pet-safety.aspxonly can they be toxic, but sweets can provide unnecessary Winter Care for Working Farm Dogs | Homesteading and Livestockcalories. www.motherearthnews.com/...and.../winter-care-for-working- farm-dogs-zbcz1611And, while a decorated Christmas tree can be lovely, Make Sure Your Dogs and Cats Are Ready For Winter | Vetstreetthey can also be lethal to pets. Edible ornaments can be www.vetstreet.com › Dr. Marty Beckertempting, but can result in an overturned tree if your dog is Holiday Safety Tips for Dogs | Pet Educationtempted to try them. This can lead to broken ornaments, www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?aid=932and if glass, can cut paws or mouths, or worse, be ingested. Pet Safety Tips for the Holidays | PetMDFurther, tinsel should be placed out of reach as it can result www.petmd.com › Dog Care Centerin intestinal blockage or obstructed circulation if eaten.Electrical cords and strings of lights may also be hazardous,as they could cause shock if chewed or burns if the lightsare low on branches and hot. Make sure to cover electricalcords and place lights on branches that are not accessibleto your dog. If possible, gate your tree off to keep it outof your dog’s reach and to help eliminate some of theseproblems, as well as the occasional lifted leg.Additional holiday hazards include: The oils produced by fir trees, which can cause mouth and stomach distress, resulting in vomiting and excess drooling – something Mastiff families are used to, but it is better if not from the Christmas tree The water used to keep live trees from drying out can contain bacteria or mold that may result in illness with even just a few laps Needles from both live and artificial trees can be sharp, causing puncture, irritation, and/or blockage Ribbons, yarn, and package decorations use for wrapping presents can cause intestinal obstruction or gastrointestinal distress if eatenFinally, don’t forget that the holidays can be stressfulfor pets. Keeping as normal a schedule as possible andproviding a safe haven away from noise and chaos canprevent unwanted mishaps. The winter and the holidayseason can be an enjoyable time of year for Mastiffs andtheir families. Longer walks in the cooler temperaturescan be enjoyable when precautions are taken. Holidays anddog-centric celebrations can be fun when approached withcommon sense and to realize that no matter how carefulyou may be, the holidays are not 100% risk free. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 52
COMMITTEE MCOA National Specialty Advisor: Mastiff Information Packet: CONTACTS Karen Parks Kelly Meyer [email protected] [email protected] MCOA Social Media Moderator & Chair: Phone:(912) 238-3170 Jann Lanz HEALTH CONTACTS [email protected] Health Committee Chair: MCOA AKC Delegate: Anna May Becky Campbell (951) 704-6022 [email protected] [email protected] MCOA AKC Gazette Columnist: Health Committee Trustee: Karen Cornelius Jan McNamee [email protected] (623) 215-2575 Castle Keeper Times Editor: [email protected] Jennifer Lambden MCOA Charitable Trust Treasurer: [email protected] Lora Myroup MCOA Journal Editor: [email protected] Maria Ruoto Cancer: [email protected] Tricia Dalman Ethics Chair: (816) 453-0700 Tricia Dalman [email protected] [email protected] DNA: Handbook Revision Committee Chair: Mary DeLisa Open (303) 929-5529 MCOA Membership: [email protected] Jodi LaBombard MCOA Health Awards: [email protected] Emily Drew MCOA Working Dog Chair: (303) 791-3053 Danielle Brown [email protected] [email protected] PRA: MCOA Working Dog Editor/Statistician: Carla Sanchez Mary Speer (951) 696-4169 [email protected] [email protected] Mastiff Conformation Statistician: Seizure Disorders: Bonnie Blink Danna Burnett [email protected] (253) 884-2930 Judges Education Steering Committee [email protected] Chair: Diane Collings [email protected] Members Education Chair: Cynthia Stewart [email protected] MCOA Futurity Director: Julie Kriebs (319) 643-5315 [email protected] MCOA Rescue Foundation Inc. (RFI): Becky Campbell [email protected] Webmaster: Dave Springer [email protected] Sunshine Committee Chair: Candi Thore [email protected] MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review
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