Welcome to the Dogs Community!

[Jaybay]

If you have one dog, multiple dogs, small dogs or large dogs, or are just thinking about bringing a dog into your life, this forum is the place for you.

There is no such thing as a stupid question here, and there are many experienced and knowledgeable members ready to help and discuss doggy business of all kinds.  All posts are welcome whether they are about veterinary care, diet, behavior, grief and loss, or a simple sharing of fun experiences with your dogs.

If you have an emergency with your dog or can't quite determine if your dog needs emergency care, please call your veterinarian first!  While many members can help you with basic first aid, we have no way of helping if your dog is experiencing a life-threatening situation.  

Med Help also has a licensed veterinarian on the “Ask a Vet” forum.  Dr. Cheng graciously volunteers her time so participation on that board is free.  In addition to practicing western veterinary medicine, Dr. Cheng also practices holistic, traditional Chinese medicine.  She has a wealth of knowledge regarding herbal and alternative treatments.  If you have an unusual or complicated medical issue, Dr. Cheng is a great resource for you.

Like other forums here at Med Help, members of the Dogs Community have the capability of writing and posting Health Page topics.  The Health Pages serve the same function as a “sticky note” post without cluttering up the forum itself.  At this time, we have one topic posted by Peekawho about Emergency Vets that is well worth reading.  For example, if you have specific knowledge of a particular medical condition or training technique, those would be great topics for a Health Page.  Just click the “Health Pages” link at the top right corner of the forum page to read what others have to offer and better yet, write your own page.  :-)

For the dogs!
Jaybay

[Jaybay]

Hello, and welcome!  Eliminating in the house can be due to one of two things: (1) an undiagnosed physical problem or (2) a behavioral issue.  Definitely take Sophie to your vet to first rule out a physical issue.  After that, you're right - it's up to you BOTH to get to the bottom of the problem and retrain her.  

It sounds like everyone is so distracted that her own basic needs aren't being met - like regular daily exercise away from the home and basic discipline and training.  By discipline I don't mean yelling at or hitting the dog, but merely helping her to understand what behavior is unacceptable.  Please consider hiring a behaviorist or a basic obedience trainer to help you both communicate better with Sophie.  It's so very worth the time and money.  :-)

[smoore11506]

Just introducing us.....I have a 5 year old boxer, Sophie, a 2 year old son and our daughter is due in Feb.  I am currently convincing my DH that Sophie can be re-house trained because she has been eliminating in the house recently and today she ate a bag of candy off the counter.  He is ready to give up, but I just can't do that when I know I can help her.

Thanks!

[bet643]

Hi , I'm new to the community also.  I have a 4yr. old male that I adopted from our local A.P.L. He was tested for heartworm, had his shots and everything else that you can think of. I was told his heartworm was negative.. Got him to the vet the next day, put him on heartworm pills along with his exam. Now, I  had my Vet test him for heartworm a yr later, and it turned out positive. I was told that it probably didn't show  up the first time because it was in the early stages. Now my poor dog had to go through some very painful injections deep in his lumbar plus a oral treatment. Drew some more blood to see if there are anymore babies swimming around, and so far it looks good. Still on sentinal and he will be tested again. I just hope he doesn't have to go through these painful shots again. He was so soar that he couldn't even  walk. I had to get him on pain meds just so he could get up to go outside to do his business. It would have broken my heart if he had to be put down. The A.P.L. said I could have another dog,,but that would be out of the question. I am already attached to this one.  I already had to put down my other dog that was 14 yrs old with cancer.

[really_obese_lady]

Hi, I'm new here and need some help with my dog (happy or as we call him Fatty). How can i tell if he's overweight? He's a 5 moth old beagle that weighs 80lbs.

[Jaybay]

Welcome!  We all look forward to reading your posts!  :-)

[LoveMyDaneS]

Hello Everyone. Thought I would introduce my clan consisting of bf, son and our 2 Great Danes, Memphis (2 years, male) and Phoenix (1 year, female)..Ive already posted a couple pics so you guys can check those out. Looking forward to getting to know you all.