My owners and I was watching cable television the other day when we came across a great show for dogs (they also talked about cats, but as you know, they don’t exist in my world). The show is the Natural Companion Show with Amy Rosenthal.

During the show, Amy showed pet owners natural ways to take care of their pets so that their dogs are healthier and live longer. The following are some of the points discussed during the show concerning feeding and caring for us dogs:

• Limit process food for better nutrition
• Processed grains can lead to weight gain
• Set a specific time to feed your dog
• Set up an exercising regiment for your dog
• Feed your dog natural treats (commercial treats are not necessarily good for your dog’s digestive system)
• Don’t be fooled by fancy dog food labels

Many of the dog owners on the program were able to overcome their dog’s various ailments by taking them off processed foods and going all natural. My owners are pretty good at this already. With my “little girl” owner going away to college soon, I hope the big owners with step up to the plate and continue to take me for my much needed walks.

It’s is another beautiful Sunday. I can’t wait for the “little gal” to take me for a Crazy Beagle walk.

This is the fourth and final installation of that can harm my fellow dogs and beagles. This installment the Crazy Beagle will be concentrating on signs of poisoning and how to find immediate treatments to save us dogs.

General Signs Of Poisoning

Though there can be signs that are specific to each toxin, the most common are:

• Abdominal Pain (your dog may whine and his stomach will be tender to the touch)
• Coma
• Convulsions
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Irregular Heartbeat
• Labored Breathing
• Lethargy
• Swollen Limbs
• Vomiting

Immediate Treatment of a Poisoned Pet

If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms or even if you just suspect he ingested something toxic, call a pet poison hotline such as the ASPCA (1-888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Hotline (1-800-213-6180). Your local ASPCA might also have a hotline.

If possible, have someone simultaneously call your vet or the emergency vet. They can tell you what to do immediately and prepare for your immediate arrival.

There are home remedies out there such as charcoal and sodium sulphate but it is best to get professional advice before administering these.

My dogs, take the time to educate your owners so that you remain healthy. Remember, the more healthy dogs, the more we can fight the cats.

It’s Springtime and we had 90 degree weather the last two days. What a beautiful day for a Crazy Beagle to be outside!

Along with the warm weather comes plentiful fruits, veggies, and foods associated with Spring and Summer weather. Here is the Crazy Beagle’s list of poisonous foods that can harm us beagles and dogs:

Human Foods That Poison Pets

• Avocado: All parts are toxic to dogs
• Chocolate: Contains Theobromine, a cardiac stimulant which can be fatal to dogs
• Fruit Pits and Seeds: Most contain cyanide
• Garlic: Contains Thiosulphate, though a small amount, so a lot would have to be ingested to be toxic. Keep in mind, it builds up in the system

• Grapes: Affects a dog’s kidneys
• Macadamia Nuts: Affects the nervous system
• Mushrooms: Affect the nervous system, kidneys and heart
• Nutmeg: Can cause seizures and central nervous system damage
• Onions: Contains same toxin as garlic, though in much larger amounts
• Raisins: Same as grapes
• Sugar-Free Foods: These contain Xylitol, which can cause liver failure in dogs

• Tomatoes, Potatoes and Rhubarb: Parts of these contain oxalates, which can be toxic to dogs

Hidden Concern: Many times people use beer, rum, and other forms of alcohol to tenderize or spice up their BBQs. Alcohol can be toxic to dogs so be careful about giving your bog a special BBQ treat during the next get together.

This is a sampling of the foods that can be poisonous to your dogs, beagles and other pets. Ask your vet or do additional research on poisonous foods.

I hope all of my fellow beagles have a wonderful Passover, Easter, etc. It’s always so colorful with the painted. eggs

Keeping with my series on items that may make you sick, there are a couple of items that are toxic for us dogs. The items Lilies and Tulips. Please take caution to not eat these items.

Sonic the Crazy Beagle says have a safe holiday!

Spring is here and I need to take care of my fellow beagles. Because we beagles and dogs, we want to enjoy the warm weather and go outdoors.  There are additions dangers we need to avoid. This is part one of a six part series on toxic foods and plants for dogs. Over the course of the series, I will share with you a sample of the foods and plants that are toxic to us dogs. Please have your owners check with experts in this area so that you have a long and healthy life! We will start with the following inside plants that are poisonous to dogs:

• Aloe Vera
• Caladium
• Chrysanthemum
• Dumbcane
• Elephant’s Ear
• Emerald Fern
• Hyacinth
• Philodendron
• Weeping Fig
• Yew

Be wise and stay away from any indoor flowers. It is better to be safe than sorry. I want my fellows beagles to bark loudly for a long time.

Come back tomorrow as I share with you what outdoor plants are toxic for us dogs.