FUNGAL INFECTION IN RABBIT

Fungal infection is caused by continuous wetting of fur. Check the neck area and chin for possible abscesses which can result from excessive scratching of the affected area.
Any slimy fur should be cut away using rounded-tipped grooming or bandage scissors. If the skin is raw, Betadine ointment is good to use as the iodine in it will kill the fungus. Iodine or prescribed antifungal cream can be applied over affected areas to stop the spread of a fungal infection, especially on the legs and between the toes.
Treatment is best done with the rabbit held on its back in a reclining position. Be careful when cutting fur as the skin is so thin and supple that it is very easy to cut it in error.

YOUR PUP'S FIRST BATH

Puppies generally do not need to get bathed until they are three months old since they get their vaccinations during these first three months of their lives and during this time their bodies are more sensitive to catch a cold. It's always best to take all the necessary precautions. When your puppy finally takes his first bath, make sure to find a nice warm spot to it in and use the appropriate dog shampoo. Puppies and dogs don't need to get bathed very often in order to stay clean. The most important requirement for their cleanliness is to get groomed and brushed everyday. If the dog or puppy gets mud on his coat, you can clean it off by using a towel with soap and warm water.
If the puppy is very young, you can bathe him in the kitchen sink.Place a clean wet wash cloth on the bottom of the sink so the pup won't slip.Buy a dog shampoo from a Pet store.Human shampoo is not good for bathing puppies or dogs because the pH of dog skin is different from the human pH.

TIPS TO CARE YOUR DOG IN WINTERS

Winter pet care:

* Brush your dog regularly. The air in most houses becomes dry during the colder months, which depletes moisture from dog skin and fur. Brushing will improve skin, coat and blood circulation.

* A thick-coated dog typically needs grooming in cold weather. The fur can get wet and matted, making it an irritant. Clean fur lofts and holds air, thus helping the animal stay warm.

* Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. Leave the coat longer for more warmth. When you bathe your dog, completely dry him before taking him out for a walk.

* Use omega fatty acid supplements during the winter, ideally starting several weeks before cold weather sets in, to help skin and coat.

* If your dog engages in a lot of outdoor activities, increase his food supply to help keep his coat thick and healthy.

Grooming a dog - necessary and beneficial

Regular grooming is essential to your dog's health and well being as it will keep the coat clean and healthy. It will stimulate the blood supply to skin, and allow the natural oils to circulate to the coat. It will also help you to check for potentially serious problems i.e. hair loss, inflammations, unusual tenderness or lumps under the skin. Constant scratching in a particular area may also be an indication of a problem. Consult your veterinarian about any unusual problems found.

Combing
Comb should be done in the direction of hair growth, combing small sections at a time, until the coat is tangle free. If the coat has a particular knot or tangle, you may have to trim it off with scissors. A de-matting comb, slicker can be used to remove mats. When using a combination comb, begin with the widely spaced teeth, and follow with the finer teeth.

Brushing
Begin brushing at the head, working toward the tail and down the legs. Always brush in the direction of hair growth. A pin brush can be used to fluff the coat by brushing against the direction of hair growth. Regular brushing will help distribute the natural oils from the skin, producing a healthy, shiny coat.
Puppies
Like babies, puppies have short attention spans. Select a time when the puppy is less energetic. Begin with short grooming sessions, five minutes or so. Constantly talk to your puppy in a gentle and reassuring tone to make him feel comfortable. Be sure to check his ears, paws, teeth, and underside during the grooming procedure. This will make him accustomed to being handled and examined. Gradually, he will be quite comfortable being groomed, and will look forward to these sessions with you.

Frequency
A good time to do this is after the dog has been walked, while he is relieved and calm. Select a time when you will not be interrupted and have ample time to do a proper grooming.