What Do You Feed Your Dogs?

What should I feed my dog? This might be one of the first questions that come to mind when we welcome a furry friend into our home. For many new dog owners, the first instinct is to turn to commercial meals. Convenient, cleanly packaged, good marketing and seemingly healthy, commercial meals such as kibble and canned food seem to be the ideal choice at first glance. 

Upon closer inspection, however, commercial meals for dogs might not be as beneficial as we are led to believe.  

Harper having dinner

The issue with kibble 

We often see kibble brands boasting the nutritional value of their product, with pellets made from premium protein sources like salmon or lamb. Yet, kibble is derived from a high-heat process that potentially leads to the loss of important nutrients. On the other hand, toxins known as mycotoxins can survive the cooking and extruding process. In the long run, these toxins can lead to immune system damage to our dogs' organs and cause issues in reproduction.  

Much of the protein in kibble also comes from highly questionable sources: about 50% of an animal is put aside for human consumption, with the remaining parts sent for use in the pet food industry. These parts may include diseased meat, animal carcasses, and other unwanted animal parts that are not ideal for a dog's diet.   

In addition to artificial flavourings and colourings which are used to enhance the flavour of kibble, preservatives such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin are used in dry kibble to prevent them from growing rancid. Such chemicals are potentially cancer-causing and are thus detrimental to our dogs' health in the long run.  

Finally, kibble is often the cause of the majority of gum disease in dogs. A common belief is that the dryness and texture of kibble can act as a tool to clean dogs' teeth while they chew on them. High carbohydrate content in kibble, however, fuels plaque growth that renders our dogs susceptible to periodontal issues.  

All his life on kibbles, Mantou now loves his new home cooked diet <3 

How about canned food? 

In comparison to kibble, canned food might seem like a more palatable choice for dogs. But like any other commercial pet food, canned food can come with undesirable health consequences.

A recent study has found that even short-term consumption of canned food can lead to a 300% increase in Bisphenol A (BPA) in dogs' blood, which can be disruptive to the endocrine system. Moreover, omega-6 fatty acids are often found in canned food, due to their high content in cheaper oils that are more cost-efficient for pet food manufacturers to use. When consumed in excess, this can be highly inflammatory, especially for senior dogs who might suffer from arthritis. 

Although there are regulations put in place in the pet food industry, it is still mostly self-regulated. This means that we can never be sure just how safe commercial pet food is. Thus, the best way to ensure the well-being of our dogs is to turn to alternatives. 

Sofie loves her food although she has a small appetite and requires many small meals throughout the day 

What should I feed my dog then?  

HOPE encourages pet owners to provide their dogs with a home-cooked diet for the benefit of their dog's health. 

When we think of home-cooked meals, the delicious dinner we ate the night before comes to mind. In fact, some of our stray rescues are used to eating leftover human food like curry rice.

But home-cooked meals for dogs are not the same as those for humans. All our rescues are on home-cooked meals which consist of proteins (pork, chicken, beef etc.), carbohydrates (rice, sweet potato, pumpkin etc) and vegetables. At times, we provide them with animals' heart, liver or blood -- a tasty treat that dogs love. Depending on the dog's age and health condition, the home-cooked meals can be tailored accordingly to suit its needs.

Egg, broccoli, minced pork, chicken heart and a dollop of yoghurt 

These meals can be prepared in a matter of time and are much more nutritious - not to mention tastier than commercial dog food. 

A word of advice, however, if you are thinking of changing your dog's diet to a home-cooked one: take it slow! Many of our rescues such as Chloe, Mantou and Amos, who have been on a kibble diet their entire lives, have had to slowly transition to eating home-cooked meals. This is to prevent issues such as diarrhoea that could arise from a sudden switch. 

Chicken leg, organic bok choy, raw celery, chicken heart and a dollop of yoghurt

Food is a big part of our lives, and we know how much our furry friends enjoy them too. While commercial meals might seem like the more convenient route, perhaps we should consider providing our dogs with more hearty and nutritious home-cooked meals. After all, it's sure to promise both health and happiness!

Written by: Erin

Canine Distemper (Not just strays get them)

Canine Distemper is fatal in over fifty percent of adult dogs who contract the virus and eighty percent of puppies. Death occurs between 2 weeks and 3 months after infection. The main cause of death is from complications to the central nervous system. It is contracted primarily through airborne viral particles that the dog breathes in. Infected dogs shed the virus through bodily secretions such as respiratory secretions, and urine and feces excretions. Dogs contract the virus by direct contact with urine, feces, or secretions from infected dogs. Also contact with kennels, bedding, toys, or other objects that may also hold the virus. During the recovery period (which can last several weeks) dogs can still shed the virus even if all symptoms have disappeared. Once fully recovered previously infected dogs no longer shed the virus.

Canine Distemper is a very serious, potentially fatal disease. 

A dog with distemper, very weak, loss of appetite

Infected animals shed canine distemper virus in all body secretions. Inhaling the virus is the primary source of exposure. The highest incidence of the disease occurs in unvaccinated puppies 6 to 12 weeks of age, at which time maternal antibodies fall below protective levels.

Distemper in Dogs

What is it?

Are you familiar with human beings contracting measles? In the furry world of dogs and other animals, a similar disease can be contracted as well – Canine Distemper (or distemper in dogs). This contagious disease often happens to unvaccinated puppies and unvaccinated dogs that are put at high risk of infection, caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), which may eventually lead to death of dogs if not efficiently treated.

What causes Canine Distemper?

CDV can spread like wildfire. It can easily be carried through the air! These infectious airborne viral particles may potentially be transmitted when other dogs are placed within the same vicinity and share the same air space. It doesn’t stop there. An infected dog’s urine or faeces, their water bowls and even their beddings leave traces of this virus. Any direct or indirect contact of these belongings could cause the virus to be spread. It affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory and central nervous systems. 

This virus, however, is not unique to dogs. Other wildlife animals such as raccoons, foxes, skunks and ferrets are also carriers of the CDV, which may potentially transmit the virus to dogs as well.

As much as we, human beings, may be safe from this virus and have a way lower risk of contracting distemper, we could possibly end up carrying CDV unknowingly. To all helpful volunteers and stray feeders out there, beware! Despite that, we may still potentially spread this condition to other healthy dogs we go into contact with after handling an infected dog. A little more cautiousness from our end will definitely go a long way!

What are some of the signs / symptoms?

So how do you know if you’re dealing with an infected dog? There’re various symptoms you can look out for. Generally, there are 2 stages in CDV:

1st stage

The first signs of distemper appear six to nine days after exposure. Dogs infected with the distemper virus at this stage would usually have high fever (39.4°C to 40.5°C) and cold-like symptoms, which worsens into:

Testing for distemper includes a nasal and eye swab

Nasal discharge is one of the signs

1. Eye/Nasal Discharge : Thick, yellow & Sticky
2. Dry Cough
3. Abdomen: Pus, blisters
4. Vomiting & Diarrhoea
5. Loss of Appetite
6. Listlessness

Nasal and eye discharge

Also includes hardening of the paw pads

2nd stage (2-3 weeks after being infected)

1. Encephalitis (Brain involving): slobbering, head-shaking, chewing movement of jaws.
2. Epileptic-like seizures (Dog runs in circles, fall over and kicks feet wildly)
3. Deterioration of mental abilities and motor skills
4. Depression
5. Distemper myoclonus: Brain involvement with muscle contractions. The jerking can affect parts of the body, but most common in the head. If the dog recovers, the jerking continues indefinitely-but becomes less severe with time.

In addition to all the symptoms stated above, the CDV also attacks the skin of an infected dog. Look out for thickened skin on its feet and nose. These, however are usually only visible about 15 days after being infected and are caused by different strains of the CDV.

How to treat the disease?

If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms, it’s best to seek professional help from a vet. They’ll be sure to advise you further through routine tests and taking a detailed complete history of the dog to rule out other diseases. The most accurate test for CDV however, may pose some dangers for the dog and will most likely not be the first action to be taken by the vet.

Unfortunately, there hasn’t been a known cure for Canine Distemper yet so it’s essential to closely monitor an infected dog’s medical progress through treatments that aid in suppressing the pain and relieving the symptoms as much as possible. Further treatments will also be offered to prevent potential new infections from occurring as the dog’s immune system will definitely weaken with any form of disease.

Some treatments include:

1. Antibiotic treatment against secondary bacterial infections
2. IV Fluids to replace fluids that were lost through diarrhoea / vomiting
3. Anti-seizure medications

Plasma transfusion, those handling dog must be in protective gear

How to prevent the disease?

And so the old saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. Thank goodness for vaccinations! It provides 100% protection. Puppies should always be vaccinated when they’re 8 weeks old as pups have a lower immunity and are more prone to catching on any diseases. That’s not all though, vaccination should still be periodically boosted over the years to ensure immunity. Schedule regular vet visits to ensure that the vaccination is up-to-date. Another important measure is to always keep your dog’s surroundings clean – routine cleaning is beneficial. CDV, although possible to be transmitted through water bowls etc. it is usually unable to survive long being out of the dog’s body. Heat, sunlight and most disinfectants (Bleach) will do the trick of killing the virus.

If you have other pets living together, be sure to isolate the potentially infected dog to prevent spreading of the virus.

A dog's chances for surviving canine distemper largely depends on the strength of the dog’s immune system. Recovery is entirely possible, although seizures and other fatal disturbances to the Central Nervous System may occur two to three months after recovery. Fully recovered dogs do not spread or carry the virus.

Dogs that recover from Canine Distemper may still show symptoms several years later after their recovery. These symptoms may even include other central nervous system disorders – in the brain or spinal cord.

Why is Fostering Important?

Picture this, a dog in a lovely home, with humans constantly by their side. Unlike the somewhat dreary shelters and boarding facilities, dogs in foster homes thrive on constant love and attention from their human counterparts.

When you choose to foster, you are agreeing to open your home and share it with a rescue dog. Apart from providing a home for the dog, fostering provides them with plentiful love, much deserved attention, and a good number of yummy treats. Here is a compiled list of reasons to demonstrate the importance of fostering.

Provides rehabilitation for rescue dogs:

It comes as no surprise that a home environment is much better suited for most dogs as compared to the often-stressful shelter environment. The love from their foster family will undoubtedly heal the mental and physical toll that dogs go through during their time on the streets – from empty soulless eyes to bright-eyed wonders prompting a game of fetch.

The comfort and love of a home ultimately gives these dogs a sense of security, trust, and assurance. Dogs who used to be weary of human contact soon come out of their shell with the love and care of a foster family; an experience by which life in a shelter cannot give.

Poor Adora has no foster / adopter and lives in a boarding home 

Get dogs ready for future adoption:

Fosterers dedicate their time to assess and develop each dog's character from the moment they arrive in hopes that the dog will be ready for adoption in no time. It is their utmost priority to ensure that each dog find a suitable and loving home in the future.

Many of these fostered dogs are rescued strays – they have never been in such close proximity with humans. One thing that fosterers immediately take to training these dogs is teaching them how to walk on a leash. These rescue dogs, having never been exposed to a leash, let alone a collar, are fearful and weary. Fostering allows for ample care of these dogs, allowing fosterers to identify their strengths and weaknesses, nurturing these dogs into becoming the best versions of themselves.

Matilda - HOPE's longest resident and still waiting for her forever home

Experienced fosterers for exceptional dogs:

Although we don't have a specific set of requirements for fosterers, some foster dogs do require more experienced fosterers, especially if the dog is elderly, sick, etc. These dogs require someone to be home almost 24/7 as they cannot be left alone. Leaving them alone may be dangerous for them as they may hurt themselves. Dogs in our fosterers care that belong to this exceptional pack are our Diaper Club dogs:

Harper, Zeus, and Mantou, all of whom cannot be left alone for more than 2 hours.

Harper has taught us so much about life and being positive

Our beloved poster girl; trooper extraordinaire is currently in the care of our experienced fosterers. With paralysed back legs, she may crawl and twist her back legs in the wrong position, causing her legs to be intertwined with each other without constant supervision from her fosterer. Her fosterer places her of utmost importance, including cleaning her trail of 'chocolate', courtesy of poo leaking from her diapers as she crawls around. In addition, her fosterer would have to wake up in the middle of the night to check on her as her legs may be intertwined, or that her back legs may be kicking on their own as a result of her nerves, by which her fosterer would have to massage her gently to stop the kicking. In part, her fosterer is not only a great pawrent, but a skilled cleaner and masseuse – trained by Harper herself!

 

Zeus has taught us never to give up

You might also be familiar with our dearest boy Zeus, who at 15 years old, already suffers from multiple slipped discs caused by the many unfortunate accidents he sustained from his days on the street, causing him to be paralysed. His fosterers keep very close tabs on him, rushing him to the vet once they realise that something is off. Because of his fosterer's unending care and love, Zeus is now able to take small baby steps and 'go potty' on his own now! Hats off to his amazing fosterers and his enormous fighting spirit.

Mantou, thankful for a second chance in life

The oldest member of The Diaper Club. Mantou suffers from arthritis, causing him to have difficulties when he walks. He had also developed pressure sores due to him spending most of his time lying down. His fosterers take him out for short 15-minute walks every 3 hours and wake up at 3.00 am each day to change his diapers. I must admit that I went full on _aww _when I saw the Facebook post of his improvement at walking. His fosterers have ensured Mantou's overall well-being, something of which I am sure this sweet boy is grateful for.

The Diaper Club dogs have benefitted greatly from being under the care of these amazing fosterers, proving their importance in a dog's life. From increased physical health and abilities to more outings and smiles, these dogs will continue to lead very fulfilling lives with their dedicated fosterers.

Commitment

We are aware that the interest rate for fostering has shot up substantially since the start of Covid-19. However, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that fostering generally requires a commitment of 1 year so as to not stress the dogs by moving them from home to home. Each time they are moved, they need to re-adapt to their new environment, causing these dogs to become depressed, lowering their immunity and making them fall sick. Their new fosterer also needs time to learn how to handle the dog.

The role of a fosterer is not just about providing a roof over a dog's head. It requires constant supervision, commitment, and responsibility. Dogs that are in foster care thrive at the dedication of their fosterers, who place them at utmost priority, enabling them to lead life to the fullest.

We have dogs such as Adora and Mathilda requiring experienced fosterers. Should you wish to consider fostering them, please email hopedogrescue@singnet.com.sg and we will be happy to tell you more.

Written by: Gabrielle

How Dogs Teach Us to Live in the Present

How to Manage Life's Uncertainty – Tips from a Dog's perspective 2020.

An unprecedented pandemic that swept the world in tsunamic waves that changed our lives forever. It was a year of despair, panic, anguish and loss for many of us. An invisible plague that entirely transformed our way of living and plunged us into a constant realm of uncertainty and anxiety. The damage was widespread and extensive. Hardly anyone escaped totally unscathed. Rice bowls that were thought to be iron clad were cruelly broken, lives were lost and we were unable to reunite with our loved ones overseas.

Amidst all the despondency surrounding us, did you notice that your dogs are blissfully unaware of the mayhem the world is in, happily sniffing out new grass patches during their walks and wagging their tail and prancing around madly when you come home? How wonderful it is to be ignorant of the realities of life, you mused. In actual fact, this is one valuable trait we can emulate from our furry pals. To live in the moment, to enjoy the present and to appreciate. Pet owners have experienced for sure, how ecstatic their pets can be when they wave their favourite piece of treat in front of them. The anticipation, excitement and pure glee just to have that one tiny piece of treat.

One happy Chloe <3 

Humankind on the other hand, relentlessly desire for more, for better things and acquiring the never-ending possessions. Perhaps this is in our social DNA, to flaunt a better life than your neighbours with swanky material things to show for. How many of us are trapped in the proverbial rat race, trying desperately to emerge top on the corporate ladder so that our family can have a better quality of life? However, have we then inadvertently neglected time with our loved ones instead, which could have brought more unadulterated joy instead of a brand new car or private dwelling bought from hours spent slogging at the office?

Harper, always positive! 

The years will sweep us by, and unknowingly when illness or old age robs us of our aging parents, do we weep at the hospital bed, full of regrets for all the time which could have been well spent with them instead of chasing superficial things, things that could never replace the bond we have with them.

That is why we think our 4-legged creatures are a more intelligent species than us. They greet us with abundant delight when we are home and never think twice about spending time with us. We are numero uno in their eyes and they are superbly content just by having our company and will never ask for more. Except perhaps 50 more pieces of treats and tummy rubs.

Zeus, he had HOPE

Mindfulness is defined as being fully present and engaged in the moment and thought to create a feeling of calm, because we aren't distracted by the past, neither are we worried about the future. And this is one thing our furry pals do best. Will they be distracted when they are woofing down a hearty meal? No. Nothing stands between them and their food. Do we see them trotting around with furrowed brows, worrying about what tomorrow will bring. No, They will be having a good nap after the meal.

Live in the moment! 

Covid 19 has ravaged the world and many of us are inevitably impacted. Feelings of helplessness, misery and fear will engulf us if we do not put an intentional halt to it. During these trying times, let us view life through fresh lenses and a grateful mindset.

If you had lost a job, it is an opportunity for you to start afresh in a new field. Take heart that a large number of professionals are also starting from ground zero with you.

Sofie, appreciative of what she has every day <3 

If you are going through a divorce (perhaps indirectly exacerbated by the pandemic), you will see light at the end of the tunnel. Nothing is more toxic than staying in a relationship that doesn't serve us in a good way anymore and you should be giving yourself a pat on your shoulder for taking the brave step forward. Surround yourself with a network of supportive friends to cheer you on to the finish line.

If worries on finances are draining you mentally and emotionally, stop. Be thankful that you have a healthy body so you have the strength to continue trudging on. The battle is only temporary and better days are just right ahead.

Chloe, one for the road 

If you have lost a loved one, be honored that you have loved deeply and intensely because grief truly is the price of love. There is no way we can bring them back but memories will stay with us forever. Revisit them whenever you are ready and one day instead of sorrow, you will look back in fondness.

Lastly, be kind to yourself and everyone around you in these tough times because tough times do not last, tough people (and dogs) do. Make a conscious effort to treasure time with your loved ones and make memories with them. Stay safe and stay united in our fight against our common adversary! Rest of 2021, we'll not be defeated, bring it on!

HOPE's icon 

Love, your friends at Hope Dog Rescue

Written by: Jamie Faith

How a Dog Can Keep You Healthy

Many people may believe that by taking care of dogs, you are sacrificing a lot of time and money to keep them healthy without receiving much in return. But what if I tell you that dogs can actually keep you in good health, both mentally and physically, as well? 

Harper 

Firstly, your daily walks with your dog keep both of you active and fit! Research has shown that walking your dog brings about several health benefits for you. They include: lower blood pressure, decreased stress, improved cardiovascular fitness, as well as stronger muscles and bones.

Adora (on muzzle training) 

Engaging in the outdoors with your dogs allows for exposure to sunlight, which is the most natural way to get your vitamin D. Not to forget that as an added bonus, you're able to lose some weight while taking your dogs out for a walk!

Moreover, being a dog owner improves your social life. This is perfect for those who find it difficult to talk about common topics when meeting new people. Dogs are an easy conversation starter — who knows, maybe the friendly aunty you met at the community centre's dog is the same breed as yours! Surely, you will meet tons of fellow dog lovers as a dog owner. Your dog will get to meet countless new friends too!

Chloe 

The importance of mental health cannot be emphasized enough. Perhaps you, or someone you know, has been struggling with remaining mentally healthy. Well, as a dog owner, your mental health will slowly but surely improve. Did you know that dog therapy helps with relieving stress and lowering anxiety? Essentially, having a dog, your furry best friend, prevents loneliness. You wake up every day, feeling comforted by the presence of your dog. Dogs bring happiness into your daily lives, helping to cope with depression.

Zeus 

Dogs have greater missions than just filling our hearts, they actually make it stronger. The same way you keep your dog happy and healthy each day, it happens vice versa. That being so, you remain active, social and mentally healthy as a dog owner. 

Written By: Chu Yi