|
Taking care of your Whippet
Whippets, like other sighthounds, have very low proportion of body fat in relation to their size. As a result, anesthesia is one of various medications to which Whippets are sensiive, so it is important to discuss it with your vet before any surgery. A special anestheic that is more shuitable for Whippets and similar breeds can be used, and it is recommended that barbiturates be avoided.
In part because of their thin skin and their low proportion of body fat, Whippets do feel the cold more than many other dogs. They need to wear warm doggie sweaters when outside in cold weather. They also seem to be rather susceptible to cold winds. Although whippets have rather strong teeth, it is also important to pay close attention to the health of teeth and gums. Infection in the gums may not just stop there, it may spread to other organs. If you cannot find the time to brush your dog's teeth every day, do it once a week at the very least.
Because whippets love the sun so much, care should be taken that the sun doesn't burn their delicate skin. A little gentle sun cream can be applied on the muzzle of those Whippets who insist on lying outside too long. It is really easy to tell when they get too hot because they pant visibly.
Posted by blue_bee on Wednesday, April 09, 2008
|
|
|