PawsNClawsLA: The Best Resource for Los Angeles Pet Owners

The skin, your pet's largest organ, acts as a barrier against harmful invasions from the environment. As an organ of elimination, symptoms of disease often show up in the skin and the body rids itself of toxins

Skin problems are probably the most common ailments seen in dogs. Usually they are not a disease in themselves, but a symptom of another underlying problem.

Allergies are the most common reason one sees problems with the skin or coats of their dogs and cats. Foods, pollens, dust or medications may cause signs of allergy. Problems can also show up due to dietary deficiency or poor diet in general. Symptoms include itching, redness, and poor coat quality.

If no other reason for the problem can be found, it is time to look for food allergies. Simply changing the dog or cats diet to a higher quality food will often make a difference. Often simply adding raw meat to the diet is enough to see an improvement.

With the dog days of summer upon us, isn't it about time you brought that precious pooch to the beach with you? For most dogs, getting to run around in the sand, dip into the waves, and fetch balls out of the water is the best day ever!  Here are some tips to ensure that you and your dog have a fun and safe beach experience.

First Things First

Check with your local beaches before you pack up the dog, since not all beaches allow them.  Depending on the time of year, some beaches allow dogs during the off-season, but summer is a different story.  Call ahead or visit the beach's website for information.

If you've ever tried taking pictures of your pet then you know it can be tricky. But before you throw in the towel, try out these helpful tips for getting great pet pictures and you'll soon discover that pet photography can be a whole lot of fun.

Catch it All

Unfortunately, our pets are only with us for a limited period of time.  This is one reason it is critical to grab pictures of your animals in action while they're in their prime.

As animals, dogs have many instinctive behaviors that don't often fit into our modern lives. In the age of professional trainers, doggy groomers, and puppy daycare, there are many methods and techniques out there promising to fix your dog's behavior problems. However, there are only a few techniques that are guaranteed to fix any behavioral problem that's only behavioral. Physically or mentally ill dogs and pups may experience behavior problems that ordinary techniques won't help.

Exercise - Just like with humans, dogs require physical activity on a daily basis or they become sluggish and depressed. Lack of exercise is the root cause of many behavioral problems among dogs. If you work outside the home, get up early and take your pup or dog for at least a 30-minute walk. This will give him exercise, and more importantly tire him out so he doesn't spend his energy destroying your home.