Basenji Health Issues & Questions

Sounds like the tear duct might be clogged. I would have the vet check it.

@tanza: Interesting that the Vet said check up by only the regular Vet? While I don't cerf every year as long as there are no problems, I do CERF every other year and then when about 10yrs, every year. Pat, yes, that's what he said, and I am sorry I didn't question him about his comment. As I'm very diligent with health care for my pets, and as I respect your knowledge, I think I'll take up your schedule. The cost is minimal for the prevention of any problems.

The only sounds I can consistently coax out of Jake are the ones where he sounds possessed. Step 1: Flip him on his back Step 2: Tickle/Rub his spine area Step 3: Wait for the demons He'll make other noises when he feels like it but I haven't figured out the "triggers" yet.

i was told recently…...that the basenji has the abillity to absorb itsown urine hence the lack of needing to pee often has anyone heard or read such a thing? it was from a reputable breeder.........????????????????

I'd also have him tested for Valley Fever. Although the Dallas-Fort Worth area isn't really within the Valley Fever Map, the map is from 1957 so things could have changed dramatically since then. Although Valley Fever in its initial stages affects the respiratory system, in its disseminated stages, it can affect other organs, including the heart. It's certainly something I'd want ruled out.

This happened just 30 miles North of me where I used to work, been in all the local news. Tonight they said that PETA was giving the fire department an award and also donating some oxigen masks that can be used on pets. Good for them! Dave

@Hana: She is 10.5 months now so we'll be thinking about transitioning at some point to an adult food. Here's a link to many of the dry foods lots of folks on this list use. http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-reviews/dry/ IMO, if you can afford the 5 star foods, go for it. Kipawa eats Taste of The Wild Bison formula and loves it! There's no grain or corn or 'meal' in it.

Always you should have eye exams done by a Board Cert Opthalmologist. While your regular Vet is great for general check ups, eye exams should be done by an Opthalmologist

Sure, why not? Although I must mention that my guy dislikes the filing more than the clipping…..

@dmey: Do you have pictures???? This is him about 3 weeks ago but he's only gained .5lb It seems I can't upload a picture right now, will try again later today.

If the tooth is loose, it can be easily removed during the dental cleaning. If it is infected, an antibiotic will be given before the cleaning. Jennifer

It might be a combination of food and seasonal allergies. The food/biscuits might be a slight problem but then added to the seasonal allergies, the allergies become major. Arnie has allergies and he rarely gets treats because of this and his kibble dog food is his treat. Does your dog also have a rash on his stomach area or the inner part of his rear legs? Arnie usually starts off with this and then if he is biting his feet I know the allergies are bad. He has not had this for a few years though! I would clean the area and this would help tremendously. Allergies are difficult to diagnose. The allergy season here in OH has been extended because of the crazy weather. If you have leaves on the ground that are/were wet, there could be mold, fungi, etc. on them and your dog is getting it on his paws. Jennifer

Anytime I have a dog that has a UTI, I add extra water to their food. I also give Cranberry pills. I sometimes give Vitamin C but that is based on the ph level of the urine and the recommendation of the vet. My dogs rarely have crystals but perhaps I catch the UTIs early. It seems like rescues I get from shelters almost always have UTIs. I think they get it from either holding it too long because they do not want to get their kennel dirty or because they eat dry food and drink water separately. Jennifer

If all else fails, a thyroid panel might be needed– but typically that is more base of and tail area, all-over etc.

Hi Michelle! Let us know how the "kids" are when you get home….......and how your trip was! Travel safe! Love, Sadie

Doggy diapers are great. I got one from Petland when Becca came into heat. It is great cause you can put panty-liners in there and then just change them at least once a day. That way you don't have to wash the diaper all the time. She was pretty good with leaving it on and not chewing it.

LOL, yes, they must decide it's just not worth it. Spencer has stopped stealing socks and unrolling toilet paper, but he still shreds squeak toys every single time! I don't think he's giving that up.

At Ellie's age, I would take her to the vet for a check-up. When a behavior changes out of the blue, there is always a chance that it is being caused by a medical problem.