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5 Travel Tips for Pets this Holiday Season
5 TRAVEL TIPS FOR PETS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY DOROTHY WILLS-RAFTERY “To a dog, motoring isn't just a way of getting from here to there, it's also a thrill and an adventure.” ~ Jon Winokur This holiday season, if you are planning on packing your car and traveling over the river and through the woods, or city, to visit grandma or any relatives and friends, there’s no better time than now to get that checklist ready for a safe, clean, and comfortable drive for both you and your beloved canine companions. Before you begin your trip, is your dog used to traveling in the car? If not, be sure to prep for your holiday journey by taking some smaller rides to get your dog ready for the trip ahead. And please, for safety’s sake, never let your dog ride loose in a vehicle. Once your dog is road-ready, here are some other tips to help make it a smooth ride for all: Check Up, Please! Be sure to schedule a vet visit to be sure your dog is healthy for travel and up-to-date on vaccinations. While there, ask your vet for a copy of your dog’s health records to have on hand, just in case an emergency trip to the vet is needed while away. Who Am I? Get or make your dog a Pet ID Card to carry in the vehicle’s glove box and one for your wallet. The ID should include a photo of your pet, his/her name, breed, gender, specific markings, address, emergency contact phone number, vet info and phone number, and if there are any special medical requirements (i.e. Epileptic. Requires Anti-Seizure Medication). Update Microchip & License Information Be sure all proper tags are on your dog’s collar, and that all information is current both with the microchip company, municipality, and vet office. Check Your Gear Give all your dogs’ leashes, collars, and clips a safety check. Be sure they are not frayed, loose, or otherwise compromised. Pack Your Pet’s Bag! Be sure to include food, bottled water, treats, bowls, medications, vitamins and supplements, health records, favorite toys, wipes, paw protection ointment or oil, poop bags, blankets, and yes, towels! Why bring bottled water? According to the ASPCA, “Drinking water from an area he or she isn’t used to could result in stomach discomfort.” Car K9 First Aid Kit Create a portable K9 First Aid Kit to leave in the car and take on excursions. Some basic supplies include: bandages, first aid ointments, tweezers, latex gloves, alcohol swabs, bug repellent, instant cold packs, gauze, scissors, tape, tick remover tool, vet-approved allergy and itch relief medication, inflatable E-collar, pet thermometer, and soft cloths or paper towels. Now that you are all packed up and ready to go, here are some tips for keeping your dog safe and comfortable for the ride: Buckle Up! The Center for Pet Safety encourages pet parents to select a quality crash-tested harness to protect your pet, in case an accident occurs. It is also advised that dogs not be tethered on a zipline or long extension type of product. There are some great dog seat belts to hook up to the harness. Check out the 4Knines universal seat belt with a 360° swivel clasp that fits most vehicles, and the 4Knines sturdy, “no choke” harness with reflective straps that come in four sizes, both located in Accessories under the “View All Products” tab. Carrier Me Away! When using a pet crate, the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) advises folks to NOT buckle up a pet’s carrier with the seatbelt, “Unless the manufacturer provides you with crash test video to illustrate structural integrity. Using a seatbelt to secure a carrier can actually crush the carrier if you get into an accident. Instead – put the small carrier on the floor of the vehicle behind the front passenger or driver seat.” For crate safety tips and more, check out CPS’ Cargo Connection Advisory. According to the ASPCA, “The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. Secure your pet’s crate so it will not slide or shift in the event of an abrupt stop. If you decide to forgo the crate, don't allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window, and always keep him in the back seat in a harness attached to a seat buckle.” The ASPCA also advises to label the dog’s crate. “Mark the crate with the words ‘LiveAnimal,’ as well as with your name, cell phone and destination phone number, and a photo of your pet.” To keep your beloved dogs comfy in their crates, check out the 4Knines machine washable Plush Microfiber Top Dog Crate Mat/Travel Bed with special foam padding that has a waterproof bottom. Once you get to your destination, will you be playing with your dog in the great outdoors? Whether you are hitting a tropical beach or trekking through mud or snow-covered trails, you will want to be sure to protect your vehicle from wet, dirty pawprints from your day of fun. 4Knines “Life-Proof” Seat Covers or CargoLiners protect vehicles from not only muddy and wet paws, but also claw marks, fur, drool, and possible accidents. For all 4Knines products, visit us here! At the end of the day, when you and your pup are ready to hit the hay, be sure your dog’s bed cover is ready with a Premium Waterproof Dog Bed Liner to help keep his sleeping spot clean. 4Knines liners are made up of a soft machine washable fabric that protects the bed insert from not only dirty, wet, and snowy paws, but also helps keep away that“wet dog smell” along with household allergens, dust mites, mold, and mildew. As your dog snuggles down for a long winter’s nap, it will not only be a healthy bed, but a “quiet” one as well thanks to the special fabric. Now that you’ve safely arrived at your holiday destination, isn’t good to know your pup had a wonderful and safe road trip experience and your car’s interior protected? And, since it is the season of giving, it is also good to know that 4Knines believes in giving back by donating “a percentage of every sale to animal advocacy groups,” something they proudly proclaim they have been doing “since day one.” So not only will your dog travel in comfort while you can keep your vehicle clean with a 4Knines product, but you can feel good about the purchase helping other animals in need. Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom).
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How to Protect Your Dog’s Bed & Keep It Smelling Fresh
How to Protect Your Dog’s Bed & Keep It Smelling Fresh “Let’s start by taking a smallish nap or two…” ~Winnie the Pooh Most dog parents today provide their dog with a nice comfy bed (or two, or three) positioned in favorite napping places throughout the house, outside, and in the car to cuddle upon. Whether you have one dog or multiple, it’s a sure bet you've also thought, “how do I keep this bed clean?” And once cleaned, just how clean-smelling is it? First, always have a well-groomed and cleaned dog to help reduce odors. But even still, they manage to bring stink home! Here are several handy cleaning tips to keep the freshness in your pet’s bed: Give It a Shake! Take the bed outside and give it a good shake to help remove loose fur and dirt. Be sure to also do a flea check! Freshen Up! On a nice day, leave the bed, lie outside for a good ol’ fresh airing out! Suck It Up! Vacuum the bed surface and all the little nooks, crannies, and creases to catch a good portion of dirt and hair. Sometimes, depending on the dog, type of coat, and the season, a second round of vacuuming may be in order. Naturally Clean! While there are many products out there that offer sweet-smelling scents, it’s important to keep in mind that some can be toxic to dogs. There are other safer, natural cleaning and deodorizing choices, such as white vinegar and/or apple cider vinegar (ACV), baking soda, and even lemon juice! (NOTE: If you’ve never used or exposed your dog to these or any new product, please check with your vet and do a small exposure test first to be sure your dog has no adverse reactions). According to Whole Dog Journal, “Since ACV is a great deodorizer and safe for your dog, you can use it to disinfect dog toys and bedding. Spray it anywhere you need odor control and/or a gentle disinfectant.” They also say, “Refresh and deodorize pet bedding by spraying it with vinegar or by adding vinegar to laundry when washing bedding.” Give It a Good Soak! Some dogs love to romp and roll in some pretty stinky stuff! When this happens, not only will your dog need a good soak, but also his bedding. Always use a chemical-free, dog-friendly detergent and let material soak for a while in a tub or washbasin. Be sure to check the fabric tag for any laundering warnings or specifications and drying instructions. If your dog loves to trek through rain, snow, puddles, mud, or dusty trails, you may also protect your pet’s bed by having a 4Knines Seat Cover or Cargo Liner for your vehicle. These “Life-Proof” covers (including their very new limited camouflage design) were designed by 4Knines to “protect cars from muddy paw prints, claw marks, dog fur, drooling, and the dreaded ‘accident.’” Go here to check out all the styles and colors. One is sure to fit both your needs! Scrub-a-Dub-Bed! Periodically give dog bed covers (and beds with non-removable covers) a spot washing for stains, and a full washing, either in a machine or by hand, depending on the fabric and size. Most recommendations say to wash your dog’s bedding once a week in hot water. Again, be sure to read the fabric tag for any laundering and drying specifications. A recipe for clean: According to Honest Paws, “Pet owners can mix one part distilled ACV vinegar with three parts water…a great tool for cleaning your pet's bedding. Many pet parents have found positive results in adding the concoction to the laundry when washing their dog's bedding.” Cover Me! If the bed insert is still in good shape, and you just need to replace the cover, check out 4Knines Premium Waterproof Dog Bed Liner. Not only is it good for your dog’s health as it protects the bed’s foam insert from “household allergens, dust mites, mold, mildew, and that wonderful ‘wet dog smell,” the soft fabric is machine washable and it’s also “quiet” so you won’t hear your dog as s/he nestles in for a nice nap! Did You Know…? 4Knines bed covers come with a USA Staff & 2-Year Warranty? You can purchase any one of their covers here! Time for a New Bed! Sometimes you just can’t wash, fluff, puff, or deodorize the material anymore and the time has come for a new bed. Today, there are so many different choices. Do a little research and find the type of bed that best suits your dogs’ needs. If your dogs prefer something a little less bulky, a 4Knines Plush Microfiber Top Dog Crate Mat/Travel Bed with special foam padding may be just the thing! It can be used in their crates, on the floor in their favorite resting spot, atop their bed, or even as an extra cushion in the car! Machine washable, the pad has a waterproof bottom, which is very helpful when potty training young pups, or protecting older pups that may have continence issues. Did You Know…? 4Knines believes in giving back? “Since day one, 4Knines has donated a percentage of every sale to animal advocacy groups.” Now that you have your dog's bed care down pat, you may be wondering what to do with the old bed? If you are replacing your dog’s bed in its entirety, you may just be able to bring warmth and comfort to a homeless dog by donating it. Happily used beds that are clean and still intact can provide comfort to a shelter or rescue dog. Just be sure to give the place a call first to confirm that they do indeed accept bedding donations. Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom). :|zpendofcontent|:
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3 Great Games to Play With Your Dog
3 Great Games to Play With Your Dog Talk to most dog owners and they’ll tell you the importance of taking Fido out for his daily walk. Yet when it comes to playtime, some owners might not rank this activity so highly. However, the first things we learn as humans are learnt through playing. That red bouncy ball that escaped you so many times at the beach was the key to developing the coordination that lets you eat food, tie your shoelaces, and even fly a jet aircraft. It’s the same for our dogs. Playing provides the foundations that let dogs perform daily activities, it allows them to use their natural behaviours, boosts fitness and improves their cognitive skills. As we humans grow up, we play less and less, but when we remember the adage about ‘all work and no play’ and go outside with a ball, we feel revived and enthusiastic. Your dog is only too happy to help you feel like this all the time! So Why Do Dogs Play? Biologist John Bradshaw says: “Play must promote survival; otherwise, evolution would select against it. A young animal that’s playing out in the open is much more obvious to a predator than one sleeping in its den. However, the benefits of play do not usually become apparent until months later, when they emerge in the form of better social integration or more sophisticated hunting techniques…the simplest explanation is that play is self-rewarding: in other words, it is fun!” When I’m working with owners that are experiencing problems with their dog, as part of their assessment, I always look at what enrichment the dog gets during the day. That’s because, in some cases, a dog that’s reactive to another may get a rush of dopamine pumping through his body. This can be highly addictive, especially if Fido isn’t experiencing any ‘highs’ for the rest of his day. So the behaviour, which may have been originally borne out of fear or frustration, can end up being rewarding for that dog and therefore repeated due to a lack of stimulation. Playing with your dog not only provides happy hormones for your pooch but it also helps focus his natural behaviours in a positive way. Playing strengthens the dog-owner bond, teaches Fido you’re fun to be with, and it helps create and maintain a healthy body and mind. What could be better than that? There are some great ways you can bust your dog’s neurons through play, so here are three game ideas to play with your pooch: 1. Choose the Right Cup Let the dog see you hide a treat under an upturned plastic cup or clean yoghurt pot. When he moves towards it, praise your dog and say “FIND IT.” When your dog pushes the cup over, praise your dog to reinforce this action – his reward is being able to munch up the treat he’s just found! When your dog starts to do this readily, put him outside the room and hide the treat. This makes it a blind search for your dog. Bring your dog back in, place your palm near to his nose so he can smell the scent from the treat, then say “FIND IT” gesturing towards the room. 2. Tidy Up Toys Start off by placing your dog’s toy basket in the middle of the room, kneel down next to it and scatter the toys. Give your dog his retrieve cue (for example “FETCH”), praise him when he picks up the toy and then hold the basket under your dog’s jaw, say “BE TIDY.” Praise and reward your dog when he drops the toy into the basket. Then repeat… 3. Spin Left and Twist Right With a treat in your hand show it to your dog, place it close to his nose then move it in a wide circle clockwise and say “SPIN.” As the dog follows the treat, praise and reward him with the treat. To teach your dog the twist, move your hand containing the treat in a wide circle anti-clockwise and say “TWIST.” Praise and reward your dog when he gets it right. Once your dog is getting the idea, introduce a hand signal or movement to indicate left spins and right twists. Top Tip: Avoid games that encourage mouthing, biting or jumping at you. Very often rough and tumble games can lead to a dog getting over-excited or, for some, a little fearful. Instead redirect your dog’s attention onto rubberized chew toys if he starts getting over-aroused, or introduce food puzzle games as this gets your dog’s brain working, helping to calm him down. AUTHOR BIO Hanne Grice Hanne Grice is a dog trainer & behaviour specialist; published author and founder of the pet care and behaviour company Walk the Dog™ (WTD). Over the last nine years, Hanne has helped over a thousand human and furry clients, working with famous faces from the world of sport, film and entertainment. She has won a number of awards both nationally and locally for her work in the UK, and represented female entrepreneurs presenting in front of government bodies and Ministers. Hanne is the author of ‘Playing With Your Dog‘ and contributes to a number of publications sharing advice on canine behaviour. Hanne has given expert advice on the BBC Breakfast sofa, BBC Radio 5 Live, Talk Sport, Radio Dacorum and has regularly appeared on BBC Three Counties. She also runs a popular Puppy & Dog School in Hertfordshire, England, and holds educational workshops for both pet owners and pet professionals. Hanne is a member of The Association of Pet Dog Trainers, The Pet Professional Guild, The Animal Behaviour Society, The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour, The Society for the Promoting of Applied Research in Canine Science, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance and the British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers.
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Dog Behavior: Why Do Dogs Eat Grass
Dog Behavior: Why Do Dogs Eat Grass Many owners have observed their dogs eating grass and, as a trainer, I am often asked why dogs eat grass. When I researched this, I found that there are several theories but few studies on why dogs eat grass. Theories include that grass consumption is an emergency source of nourishment, that it is a normal behavior that helps remove parasites, that it resolves nausea and induces vomiting, that it adjusts the Ph balance in the gut and/or that it adds needed fibre to the diet. Some argue that grass is not consumed to obtain nutrients since dogs that are fed a nutritionally complete diet will still eat grass. Others feel grass-eating is inherited from wild ancestors and is to help expel parasites. It is also known that wolves and cougars in nature are known to eat grass and that it is seen in 5-10% of their scats. The results of a 2007 study showed that dogs are more likely to eat grass if they are hungry and that they ate less grass as the day wore on. Researchers concluded that grass eating is a normal and common behavior and should not be seen as a problematic behavior for most dogs. Again in 2007, it was published that an 11-year-old castrated male Miniature Poodle had been eating grass and vomiting everyday for seven years. There were no abnormal findings on medical examinations. The vets advised the owner of the poodle to switch from the usual dog food to a high-fibre diet. On follow-up, the owner reported that the dog had not eaten plants nor vomited from 3 days after initial dietary change. The dog had not shown any clinical signs when followed up 13 months later. This clinical finding shows a possibility that deficient diet, especially fibre, relates to the plant-eating behavior of a dog. In a web-based survey of owners of plant-eating dogs which got about 3000 returns for dogs it was reported that dogs and cats eat grass as their preferred plant but, contrary to popular opinion, only about 10% of dog owners reported that their dog frequently showed signs of illness prior to plant-eating and only 20% reported their dogs regularly vomited afterwards. There was no relationship between type of diet and plant-eating, which does not support the dietary fiber idea. The results of a 2009 study suggest that the nursing mother may also influence grass-eating behavior in her puppies. Six litters from mixed-breed bitches participated in the study and the puppies from each litter were divided into two groups. One group was presented with grass in the presence of the mother and the other group was presented with grass without their mother present throughout the study. All puppies were observed eating grass irrespective of the presence or absence of their mother. Three mothers spent less than two minutes each eating grass, whereas the other three mothers spent more than ten minutes eating grass. The puppies with mothers present who ate grass for longer periods and more frequently, also spent more time eating grass than their littermates who were not with their mothers during testing and than the puppy’s mothers with mothers who ate grass less frequently and for shorter periods of time. The results of that study suggest that grass-eating behavior in domestic dogs is innate and that the mother’s eating habits further influence the puppies’ grass eating. As the puppies matured and were weaned, they spent more time eating grass. It’s apparent that more research needs to be done to answer why dogs eat grass and that the behavior could be for a variety of reasons. Bjone, S., Brown, W., & Price, I. (two007). Grass eating patterns in the domestic dog, Canis familiaris. Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia, 45-49. Brennan, DVM, M. L. (1994). The Natural Dog. New York, NewYork: Plume. Fogle, B.(1999). Natural dog care. Willowdale, Ontario, Canada: FireflyBooks. Hart, DVM, PhD, DACVB;, B. L. (two009, 04 01). Why do pets do that? Eating grass, purring, yawning and catnip reactions (Proceedings). Retrieved from DVM360: http://veterinarycalendar.dvm360.com/why-do-pets-do-eating-grass-purring-yawning-and-catnip-reactions-proceedings?id=&pageID=1&sk=&date= Kang, B.-T., Jung, D.-I., Yoo, J.-H., Park, C., Woo, E.-J., & Park, H.-M.(two007). A High Fiber Diet Responsive Case in a Poodle Dog with Long-Term PlantEating Behavior. Journal of Veterinary Medicine, 779-78two. Lindsay, S.R. (two001). Applied Dog Behavior and Training Volume Two. Ames, Iowa:Iowa State Press, A Blackwell Publishing Company. McKenzie, S., Brown, W., & Price, I. (two009). Maternal Influence on Grass-EatingBehvaior in Puppies. Journal of Veterinary Behavior ClinicalApplications and Research, 97-98. Overall, M.A,, V.M.D., Ph.D, K. L. (1997). Clinical Behavioral Medicine for SmallAnimals. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, Inc. Sueda, K., Hart, B. L., & Clff, K. D. (two008). Characterization of plant-eating in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 1two0-13two. Thorne, C.(1995). The Domestic Dog. (J. Serpell, Ed.) Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press. Jane Bowers, B.A., CABC, CPDT-KA Jane Bowers has been training dogs for over two decades. She teaches people to train their dogs in group and private training courses and has a keen interest in assisting dogs with behavioral issues. Her company is Dogs of Distinction Canine Training Inc. Jane has a monthly newspaper column on dog related topics and is a former host of a live call in TV show on animals. She is a strong advocate for force free and humane training methods for all animals. Jane has a degree in psychology and is certified as a dog trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Pet Dog Trainers and as a behaviour consultant through the International Association of Behavior Consultants and through the Association of Animal Behavior Professionals. These organizations require a minimum number of continuing education units be obtained to retain certification. She is also a professional member of "The Pet Professional Guild," an organization committed to force-free training of animals and the "Association of Professional Dog Trainers," a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to being better trainers through education. Jane is the content creator of the online course "Assessing and Interpreting Dog Behaviour," which is a course for law enforcement personnel who meet unfamiliar dogs in the course of their duties. She is the author of "Perfect Puppy Parenting," a guide to raising a happy, confident, well-behaved dog. Jane spent 17 years working for Customs Border Services and in joint teams with US Homeland Security and the RCMP. She spent a further 8 years working as an Animal Control Officer and Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Jane lives on a small farm with dogs, sheep, donkeys, and chickens. The dogs each came from situations that prevented them from living in their original homes. The dogs range in size and age and with the dog training and behavioral work, whether it's participating in the development of an online training course, working with a client's dog or tracking a lost pet or animal. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Sleep Deprivation In Dogs: Tired Dog, Grumpy Dog
Sleep Deprivation In Dogs: Tired Dog, Grumpy Dog Sleep deprivation in dogs can cause as many problems as it does in humans. Dogs get cranky and that can lead to miscommunication and mishaps with those around them. Various sources disagreed on the amount of sleep dogs should have, but on average adult dogs need around 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day from frequent naps and nighttime sleep, and puppies 17 to 20 hours. Lack of sleep can cause restlessness or hyperactivity, lack of motor skills; basically they get clumsy, they have less concentration and can become irritable and even aggressive. Continual lack of sleep is also bad for their long term health and increases stress levels. Dogs love to nap but in busy households not having a safe quiet place to retreat to can be difficult for some dogs to cope with. Dogs with introvert personalities find it even harder to deal with constant activity around them and need extra time to recover from social interactions. The kind of things that upset a dog's daily REM time are young children, other playful dogs, visitors to the house, loud and busy activities within the home, noises in or outside, wildlife disturbing dogs in the night, bright lights that shine in the room they sleep in, being too cold, the wrong shape or style of bed, humans who continually fuss them, and fast exercise which promotes adrenaline so they become even more restless and hyped upon return from a walk. Over exercise can also cause soreness in the body which affects a good nap or night’s sleep. Have one or several of these occurrences happen on a regular basis and you have one very tired dog. What can you do about it? Implementing just a few changes can make a world of difference, try: Locating a comfy bed in a quiet area or give your dog a den to curl up in or a room to escape to. Have a slightly raised soft sided bed so he is out of drafts and can also stretch out fully. It needs to be big enough that he can lay flat on this side. Tired of smelly, hard to wash dog beds? Check out 4Knines Dog Bed Covers. Separate boisterous younger dogs from your older dog for periods of the day. Teach a self-settle so busy dogs learn to have quiet time. Encourage slow sniffy walks to promote calming endorphins. Make sure windows are covered with blackout blinds so you can cut down on light and shadow coming into the room at night, or views of nocturnal wildlife being seen through a low window. It will also encourage your dog to sleep in past dawn if he is an early riser. Turn off security lights with sensors so it doesn’t wake your dog by coming on all night. Locate your dog’s bed in a room away from road noise, footpaths, gravel paths etc. where your dog might be disturbed. If your dog has had a busy day with lots of visitors and activity, have a quiet day the following day to aid recovery. Be aware of changes to routine like at Christmas and in holidays and how that might affect your dogs sleep routine. If your dog is a poor traveler, car journeys will be very tiring; consider breaking up your trip over a couple of days or stop for an hour or two so he can rest. Educate children and adults to leave dogs to sleep. Play calming music to encourage rest. You can get music specifically designed to calm dogs down. Make sure the ambient temperature is just right. If you think your dog might get cold at night get him a warm fleecy coat or leave the heating on. Monitor your dog’s sleep patterns and know when he prefers to sleep. You can then build a routine around these naturally restful times. There are also lots of activity trackers for dogs on the market now if you want to gather some serious data and make big improvements. Above all though, be aware how sleep deprivation will affect your dog’s overall behaviour; we aren’t the only species who don’t function well on lack of sleep! Toni Shelbourne Animal Behaviourist, Tellington TTouch Practitioner, Real Dog Yoga Instructor & Author Toni has worked with domesticated and wild canids since 1989. After a long and successful career with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, she started her own business as a Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner. She is now one of the highest qualified Practitioners in the UK. In 2001 her skills in TTouch took Toni to the UK Wolf Conservation Trust were she meet a pack of socialised wolves. She went on to work with them for over a decade as a Senior Wolf Handler and Education Officer for the organisation. In more recent years, Toni has gone on to become a Real Dog Yoga Instructor, (Visit www.therealdogyoga.co.uk to find out more) and updated her qualifications in behaviour with the International School of Psychology and Behaviour, for which she is also an affiliate. She is now a full member of The Association of INTO Dogs as a certified canine behaviourist. She teaches all over the UK and abroad, works with clients' one to one, and writes. Toni lives in Oxfordshire, England with her husband and their dog MrP. In more recent years, Toni has gone on to become a Real Dog Yoga Instructor, (Visit www.therealdogyoga.co.uk to find out more) and updated her qualifications in behaviour with the International School of Psychology and Behaviour, for which she is also an affiliate. She is now a full member of The Association of INTO Dogs as a certified canine behaviourist. She teaches all over the UK and abroad, works with clients' one to one, and writes. Toni lives in Oxfordshire, England with her husband and their dog MrP. Over the last two decades, Toni has been developing her writing. She spent two years editing and writing features for Wolf Print, the UK Wolf Conservation Trust's international magazine. She went on to write for national dog magazines, rescue society newsletters and blogs. Her first and second book, The Truth about Wolves & Dogs, (Hubble and Hattie 2012) and Among the Wolves (Hubble and Hattie 2015) have been a great success. Her latest writing collaboration with co-author Karen Bush sees a series of books entitled HELP! My Dog is…. Titles include, HELP! My Dog's Scared of Fireworks, HELP! My Dog doesn't Travel Well in the Car, HELP! My Dog is Destroying the Garden and HELP! My Dog has a Canine Compulsive Disorder. All are available in paperback and eBook format on Amazon. Toni and Karen have many more titles planned under the banner of Skinny Dog Books – named as they both own sighthounds and the books are small and concise. Visit www.tonishelbourne.co.uk and www.skinnydog.jimdo.com for more details about Toni, her work and books. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Toni-Shelbourne-Animal-Behaviourist-and-Author-1216326578548987/?modal=admin_todo_tour Twitter: @tonishelbourne Toni Shelbourne and Karen Bush’s book HELP! • Skinny Dog Books: https://www.facebook.com/Skinny-Dog-Books-2300304920208295/?modal=admin_todo_tour • Canine Books: https://www.facebook.com/Canine-books-by-Toni-Shelbourne-Karen-Bush-1559814977608635/?eid=ARChH0kq7iiYb0C-c9voGEf_qI53DOiRdMED-3sOqxjvBU678KtlDbDWeCd9bOSwttpHEDYhRHZARUPH • My Dog is Destroying the Garden: US paperback link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden/dp/1976563313/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250534&sr=8-6&keywords=toni+shelbourne US Kindle link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden-ebook/dp/B07622F3N5/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250597&sr=8-7&keywords=toni+shelbourne UK paperback link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden/dp/1976563313/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250633&sr=8-5&keywords=toni+shelbourne UK Kindle link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden-ebook/dp/B07622F3N5/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250633&sr=8-7&keywords=toni+shelbourne :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Prepare Your Dog For a Vet Visit
How to Prepare Your Dog For a Vet Visit Does going to the vet make you nervous? I think there is nothing more frightening than rushing your pet to a vet for an emergency. It can also be scary when taking your pet for a planned appointment when you suspect there is something wrong. Since our pets cannot tell us what is ailing them, we need to be their eyes and ears. It’s important to gather the right information when you suspect there is an injury, illness, or behavior change. There are steps that we can take as pet parents to prepare for a vet visit whether it is an emergency or pre-planned visit to help the veterinarian make a diagnosis. 4 Tips on How to Prepare For a Vet Visit: 1. Journal From the time you suspect something may be wrong with your pet, start a daily journal detailing what is going on to prepare for a vet visit. Both of my dogs have Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Before we had a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan to ease the symptoms, I kept a daily journal recording everything about what they ate including the time they ate, medications they took including the time of day, details about their poops, and details on if they threw up. Below is an example journal entry from my French Bulldog, Florence. Monday, 10/8/12 Florence 3:25 a.m. – coughed and threw up 8 inches by 4 inches wide with lots of liquid with small brown spots – acted normal after throwing up 7:50 a.m. – Breakfast 1/3 Cup of IAMS Low Residue kibble 1/2 Can IAMS Low Residue food ½ metronidazole ½ capsule of powder to stop bleeding 8:10 a.m. – thick chocolate pudding poop with some bright red blood at the end 1:45 p.m. – pill pocket w/1/2 capsule of powder to stop bleeding 6:15 p.m. – Dinner 1/3 Cup of IAMS Low Residue kibble 1/2 Can IAMS Low Residue food ½ metronidazole ½ capsule of powder to stop bleeding 6:35 p.m. – thick chocolate pudding poop with diarrhea on top and a little bright red blood 2. Take Pictures Sharing pictures with your veterinarian can help visually show what you are seeing for things that you may not be able to show them in person. For example, if you think there is blood in the poop, take a picture. Or, if you see a rash on their body that looks worse at different times of the day, take pictures of how the rash changes while documenting in your journal the changes throughout the day. 3. Take Videos If your pet is limping, having a hard time chewing when eating, reacting in an unusual way to situations that are not normal for your pet, take videos to bring to your veterinarian. For example, there was one night when our English Bulldog, Beatrice, looked like she was involuntarily bobbing her head and couldn’t stop. It didn’t look like a seizure but it still gave us reason to worry. We took a video so we could show the veterinarian once we arrived at the emergency hospital in case she wouldn’t repeat it when we were there in person. The video then helped the veterinarian diagnose her with the head-bobbing syndrome. 4. Bring a Fresh Poop Sample If your pet has loose poops or diarrhea, bring a fresh sample to the appointment in case the veterinarian would like to run tests on it. If you can’t take your pet to the vet right after they poop, bag it and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep the odor enclosed. When you go to the vet, bring the airtight container in a cooler with you to the appointment to keep it fresh. When keeping a journal, taking pictures or filming videos don’t worry about making everything look perfect or pretty. The important part is gathering as many details as possible to help describe what is unusual or off about your pet’s behavior or actions to aide your veterinarian in diagnosing your pet. Do you have other suggestions or tips on how to prepare to for a vet visit to help your veterinarian diagnose your pet? Jennifer Shafton Jennifer Shafton, a native of Los Angeles and a USC graduate, currently lives in Sherman Oaks, California. She is a proud mom of two dogs: Beatrice, a beautiful English Bulldog, and Florence, a spunky French Bulldog. In 2004, she founded Rufus and Delilah Dog Walking and Pet Sitting which services over 200 clients in the San Fernando Valley. Rufus and Delilah has an impeccable 5 Star Yelp reputation and was voted Best Dog Walker on the L.A. Hotlist four consecutive years (2011-2014). Jennifer also writes articles on her Rufus and Delilah blog, which covers a variety of dog and cat related topics, as well as a weekly feature on an adoptable pet for a FuRRRRever home. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and Google+. Links:www.rufusanddelilah.com/rufus-and-delilah-blog/https://www.facebook.com/rufusanddelilahhttps://twitter.com/RufusandDelilahhttps://www.pinterest.com/rufusanddelilah/https://instagram.com/rufusanddelilah/https://plus.google.com/109448956947385878997/posts :|zpendofcontent|:
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6 Important Questions About Dogs in Cars That Could Save Your Dog’s Life
6 Important Questions About Dogs in Cars That Could Save Your Dog’s Life My dog Clovis and I love going hiking together, so we’ve spent a lot of time in the car. But as a responsible, loving dog-owner I exercise extreme caution when he’s in there, carefully planning my itinerary to avoid unnecessary stops, and forgoing certain luxuries like stopping for meals. The inconvenience to me of not being able to leave him in the car is still less than the dissatisfaction that we’d both feel if I always just left him at home. After all, I didn’t get a dog so he could just sit at home waiting for me, I got him so he could share in my life. So I’ve learned to adapt to having my dog in the car, and I’ve put together the answers to the most important questions that everyone should know about dogs and parked cars on warm days. 1. How hot does it have to be outside to be too hot in the car for my dog? Unfortunately, because cars can heat up so fast, it doesn’t need to be very hot outside to be too hot for your dog. The American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) has this handy chart that shows how hot cars can get depending on the temperature outside. Really, if it’s at all warm and sunny, then dogs shouldn’t be left in cars. 2. What if I leave the windows open? If it’s really windy, and you leave the windows fully open (in which case your dog will probably escape), then it probably could help keep the car cool. Unfortunately, for obvious reasons, most dog owners don’t leave their windows fully open, and leaving them cracked doesn’t move enough air around to make a difference. So even with the windows cracked, if it’s at all warm and sunny, don’t leave dogs in cars. 3. What if I park in the shade? Again, depending on the situation, parking in the shade could potentially make it safe for your dog to be in the car. Unfortunately, shade moves, and on warm days, even cars parked in the shade can get dangerously hot for your dog. He’ll thank you for not doing it. 4. What if it’s only for five minutes? Are you sure it’s only going to be five minutes? Maybe you can’t find what you’re looking for, or maybe the checkout line is longer than you expected and then your 5 minute stop becomes a 15 minute stop. But even if it is just five minutes, this is usually still too long to leave a dog in a car on a warm day. Try sitting in your car for five minutes and see how you feel; it’ll be much worse for your dog since he’s covered in fur and can’t sweat other than through his feet. 5. What should I do if I see a dog in a hot car? If the dog looks to be at all in distress you should call the police. Nearly every city and state has different laws for how to deal with dogs in hot cars so while you might think you’re saving a dog, the dog’s owner might just think that you’re liable for a smashed window. While you’re waiting for the police to show up, go into the store and ask a manager to try to page the dog’s owner over the PA system. Stay with the dog until the authorities arrive or until the owner returns. You should only try to rescue yourself as a last resort, if it looks like it’s in imminent danger. 6. What should I do if I want to stop for an errand while my dog is in the car? There are lots of safe ways to stop while your dog is in the car. If you’re not driving alone, then have the other person run inside while you stay with your dog to keep him safe. If you’re alone, stop somewhere with a drive-thru window so that you can remain in your car with your dog. Alternately more and more restaurants and bars offer patio where they allow well-behaved dogs to hang out with their owners so that they don’t have to be left in the car. Your dog always loves going along for the ride, and so you shouldn’t have to just leave him at home. With these tips for keeping him safe, you’ll be able to enjoy many great adventures together. Happy Travels! William Loopesko- Founder and CEO of Go Pawsible William Loopesko is an active dog owner who loves going hiking with his dog Clovis. Out of a concern for Clovis’ safety when they’re together in the car, William was inspired to start Go Pawsible and make is possible to leave a dog in a parked car without worrying about its safety. Go Pawsible is working hard to create the world’s first ever product specifically designed to keep dogs cool when they’re left in cars so that they are able to spend more times with their owners. The product will feature a rechargeable-battery powered cooling system that will keep dogs cool regardless of the outside temperature, and will be connected to smartphone app so that the owner can monitor the dog and make sure he’s safe. To learn more about Go Pawsible and their plans to create a world where no dog ever again has to suffer in a hot car, visit GoPawsible.com or email info@GoPawsible.com. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Meeting Up at the Dog Park
Meeting Up at the Dog Park Whether you’ve moved to a new area, or are traveling with your dog on vacation and visiting a new town, you probably are asking yourself, where is the local dog park? Maybe you like to hike or camp with your dog, but are not sure of which are pet safe and dog-friendly trails and sites. Or, maybe you would just like to meet other doggy parents and give yourself and your dog a chance to simply socialize. The big question is—how can you find where to do this? Today, dog parks and pet-friendly parks are popping up in cities and towns all over, giving dogs who may not usually have the opportunity to get out and stretch, to have a chance to have some fun, make new doggy friends, and have a safe space to run free and just be, well, a dog! According to the American Kennel Club, there are many benefits to a dog park, including: 1. Allowing Dogs to Safely Exercise Dog parks are fenced in and offer dogs the opportunity to be off-leash and have the safe freedom to run, play, and have fun in an enclosed environment. 2. Dogs Can Safely Socialize Under the watchful eye of their guardians, dogs can play without the threat of danger, such as running away, being taken, or dodging out into a street with traffic. 3. Dog Parents Can Socialize With People of Common Interests Dog parents can share stories, tips, and be supportive of each other while bonding (and sharing some laughs) over their beloved dogs. 4. Promotes Responsible Dog Ownership A dog park gives dogs a great place to run off-leash without violating leash laws or infringing on the space and/or safety of passersby, running up to and frightening neighborhood children, running after joggers, etc. When visiting a dog park, it is important to be careful and considerate and know proper dog park etiquette, so all dogs and their humans can enjoy the playtime. This would include: Take note of the park or group rules, and respect them. Always be sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that your dog is in good health. Always keep a watch on your dog, and be ready to step in and head off any potential problems. If your dog is aggressive and cannot be controlled, don’t bring him/her to the dog park. Always bring poop bags and clean up after your dog! Bring a water dish/portable water bottle and fresh, cool water. Keep treats and food out of the dog park! The park is for play! Not all dogs like to share and when food is around, it can quickly become a hostile situation. Be friendly! Taking photos of your pet in action is always fun, just be sure to ask the other dogs’ families if it is okay to snap their pet as well. Not sure how to find a dog park, or even a dog-friendly beach, campground, or playground to go to with your dog? Check out the various iOS apps, including the 2019 Webby Honoree, BringFido! BringFido (both app and website) not only lists worldwide dog-friendly parks and beaches by state, but it also gives listings and reviews of many other dog-friendly places to visit, including hotels, restaurants, activities, events, and more! There are also some terrific blogs written by traveling pet bloggers who write about their experiences at dog parks, dog-friendly parks, and dog-friendly places. For tips about traveling with your dog, dog-friendly places to visit, and much more, here are just a few websites and blogs for traveling dog families to check out: BringFido Go Pet-Friendly Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them Year of the Monkey: Travel. Food. Pets. Lifestyle Doggone Destinations Camping With Dogs by Life With Mutts Another way to look for like-minded dog lovers and a dog meet-ups at parks and other destinations in your local area, or an area you are visiting, is by checking out MeetUp.com. Go to their “Pets” category and do a search for “dog meet-ups” or “dog parks” with a desired mile radius of your location to find dog-friendly places near you. Are you a Facebook fan? You can type in key words in the Facebook search bar, such as “dog parks,” “dog meet-ups,” or even breed-specific groups, then click on the “Groups” tab, and voila! There are tons of listings to search through right at your fingertips! As a cautionary reminder, please keep yourself and your pet safe by doing a little research first to be sure the group you located online is legit by checking out the member list to see if you can verify its authenticity from a member you may already know, or talk to a licensed and/or recognized canine group, vet, or a town official. If possible, take a drive to the dog park or meet-up place to visually check it out ahead of time. Once verified, you and your dog can enjoy a happy, healthy, and safe outing together with some new friends—canine and human! And don’t forget to get a 4Knines seat cover to protect your vehicle from those wet, muddy pawprints! Check out my 4Knines affiliate link here for a cover to fit your vehicle and your dog’s needs, and enjoy those happy tails on the trails! Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom). :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Raise a Doggy Superstar!
How to Raise a Doggy Superstar! Two words: Early Socialization. I know, I know. Puppies need manners training and crate training, potty training and chew training, alone time training and resource guarding prevention. Those things are important, no doubt. But when it comes to your pup’s long term behavioral health and wellness, none is as important as proper early socialization. Socialization, the process of exposing a puppy to all sorts of people, places, puppies, things, and experiences in a positive way, is the highest priority for raising a superstar. Socialization gives your puppy the best chance of growing up to be a confident well-adjusted dog. It greatly reduces the risk that as an adult dog, kids playing or garbage trucks rumbling along a street will send him cowering frantically in a corner, or turn him into a reactive barking mess. The best case for early socialization comes from dogs who didn’t get it. When I hear that Casey growls and barks at kids, I typically learn that she wasn’t around kids much or at all when she was a pup. When I hear that Juniper snarls and barks at visitors, I often learn that during puppyhood, hardly anyone came to the home, and he rarely met people outside the family. All too often I hear that Mattie barks and lunges at dogs when she’s on a leash, plays too roughly with other dogs, … and that she never went to puppy class or puppy playgroups. Sadly, most fear and aggression behavior problems stem from a lack of early socialization. Socialization should be top priority in raising your superstar because unlike the case with manners training, you’re racing against time. The early critical socialization window ends between 12 and 14 weeks of age! During that time, pups are most impressionable and socialization experiences are likely to make the biggest impact. Your job isn’t finished once your puppy hits 14 weeks though. Socialization should continue throughout puppyhood and adolescence, and for some dogs, into adulthood. Socialization doesn’t guarantee that a pup won’t develop fearful or aggressive behavior later. But it does provide him with a solid foundation of confidence and maximizes his chance of not developing those sorts of behavioral issues. Dogs, like humans and other animals, become more cautious and fearful as they age. It’s a survival mechanism that makes good sense. If Buster is four the first time he meets a toddler, how would Buster know if the toddler is safe, dangerous or irrelevant? Treating the child as a potential threat — running away or barking at it to go away — is the safest, most logical choice from Buster’s perspective. Pups who regularly encounter new people, places, pups and stuff develop resilience and the confidence to handle novel situations. If you want a puppy star who grows into a doggy superstar, socialize the heck out of him and make it fun! A Few Tips: Get him out into the world safely every single day. Pair socialization experiences with things your pup really likes or loves to create a positive association. Take treats on outings and feed him a few pieces whenever he meets a new person, sees or hears something new, or goes to a new place. Introduce him to new people every day, especially to kids of all ages; babies; toddlers; people in hats, hoodies and shades; elderly people; physically challenged people; people in uniform; people with facial hair; people in wheelchairs; people carrying packages, using walkers and pushing strollers. Enroll him in a positive training puppy class that is run off-leash and/or includes off-leash playtime. Take him to supervised puppy playgroups at least once a week, in addition to puppy class. Expose him to noisy places and things like construction sites, airports, train stations, garbage trucks, vacuums, hair dryers, other appliances, buses and garages. Take him to dog-friendly parks, beaches, trails, cafes, pet stores, groomers, vet clinics, and other stores. Invite friends and neighbors over to meet him. Never force him to interact with someone/something that really scares him. Instead, get him out of the situation and contact a positive trainer. Lisa Manolius, CTC, CPDT-KA Lisa has been training dogs professionally since 2007. An honors graduate of the renowned Academy for Dog Trainers, she owns and operates her own private training business, Oh Behave!, in San Francisco, CA. Lisa specializes in training puppies, adolescents, and fearful and anxious dogs, and uses only force-free reward-based methods. She lives with her husband, and beloved fur babies, Vinnie the dog, and Ted the cat. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Features of a Good Dog Daycare
Features of a Good Dog Daycare Dog daycares have become popular with dog owners but, like many pet-related services, the quality of care varies. Here are some tips on how to find a good dog daycare: Ask for recommendations from other dog owners, trainers and veterinarians and visit the daycare or daycares you are considering and spend some time there. Whether the daycare is indoors, outdoors or a combination, the daycare should be spacious. The dogs should have lots of room to run and they should be able to get away from one another if they want or need to. Note the odor of the facility. It should smell fresh and be clean and not like dog waste or harsh cleaners. For playtime, dogs should be divided into groups (divided by size, activity levels and playstyles) either by having the groups in separate areas from one another or by having the groups out in separate playtimes. Check what size the groups are. More than 10 or 15 dogs per group is risky. Consider also the staff to dog ratio. Most dog professionals recommend 1 staff member per 15 dogs with adjustments made for more and less active dogs. There should be continual supervision of the dogs. Ask about the daycares’ policy on toys. Some dogs become possessive over things and many daycares avoid having toys out with the dogs for this reason. Look for a daycare where there are rest areas for the dogs and where dogs are given rest periods. There should be clean fresh water always available. If it is an indoor facility, there should be a designated area where the dogs can do their business so that they are comfortable all day and so that they do not lose their housetraining skills. Some daycares incorporate walks into the day for this purpose. If you have an older dog, check to see if there are additional times for a dog who perhaps needs to void more often. Look at the fences surrounding the outdoor area and make sure they are high and solid. I like fences which also have buried wire to avoid dogs digging their way out. Are there double gates and double doors so that dogs are secure when people are coming in and out of the facility? Meet the staff! The staff members should really care about dogs. They should employ reward-based methods to encourage good behavior from the dogs and understand that punishment is known to create aggression. They should easily recognize stress signals in dogs. Staff members should know the difference between play and aggression and when to interrupt dog interactions. Be sure to ask what training the staff have in dog behavior and care. Your dog’s daycare experience is going to be as good as the staff who make it happen. Ask how the staff break up fights and what tools they use. Walk away from any facility that tells you they allow dogs to just “sort it out”. There should always be at least one staff member with current pet first aid present. Staff should also be able to give medications to your dog if required. Ask how the daycare screens the dogs who attend the daycare (the dogs should be screened for suitability). Is there a detailed application form (there should be!)? Are there vaccination requirements (there should be)? Ask about the daycares’ policy is on emergencies. Decide if your is dog a good candidate for a daycare. Dogs who like to play with other dogs, are active and well-socialized are good candidates for daycare. Dogs who are distressed when left at home alone can be good candidates for daycare, but they also may prefer to hang out at a friend’s house or have a caregiver come to the home in the absence of the owner. Once your dog has been to a daycare, observe your dog to see if it looks like he likes it when you go again. Is he excited when he arrives and eager to meet up with the other dogs or is he showing stress signals and reluctant to approach the centre? If it’s the latter, then that daycare isn’t for him. Some businesses offer video access to their customers which can give peace of mind to an owner who wants to see first hand that their dog is having a great time. Decide how long your dog will attend daycare. Some offer hourly and half-day services. Daycares can be great for dogs but choose wisely! Jane Bowers, B.A., CABC, CPDT-KA Jane Bowers has been training dogs for over two decades. She teaches people to train their dogs in group and private training courses and has a keen interest in assisting dogs with behavioral issues. Her company is Dogs of Distinction Canine Training Inc. Jane has a monthly newspaper column on dog related topics and is a former host of a live call in TV show on animals. She is a strong advocate for force free and humane training methods for all animals. Jane has a degree in psychology and is certified as a dog trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Pet Dog Trainers and as a behaviour consultant through the International Association of Behavior Consultants and through the Association of Animal Behavior Professionals. These organizations require a minimum number of continuing education units be obtained to retain certification. She is also a professional member of "The Pet Professional Guild," an organization committed to force-free training of animals and the "Association of Professional Dog Trainers," a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to being better trainers through education. Jane is the content creator of the online course "Assessing and Interpreting Dog Behaviour," which is a course for law enforcement personnel who meet unfamiliar dogs in the course of their duties. She is the author of "Perfect Puppy Parenting," a guide to raising a happy, confident, well-behaved dog. Jane spent 17 years working for Customs Border Services and in joint teams with US Homeland Security and the RCMP. She spent a further 8 years working as an Animal Control Officer and Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Jane lives on a small farm with dogs, sheep, donkeys, and chickens. The dogs each came from situations that prevented them from living in their original homes. The dogs range in size and age and with the dog training and behavioral work, whether it's participating in the development of an online training course, working with a client's dog or tracking a lost pet or animal. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Siberian Husky Rescues: A Heartfelt Mission to Help the Homeless
Siberian Husky Rescues: A Heartfelt Mission to Help the Homeless Thinking of getting a beautiful Siberian Husky? Did you know you can help save a Husky’s life by learning all you can about the breed, and then adopting or fostering one from a rescue? Rescue Takes a Village Shari Baillargeon, also known as “Mama Shay” in the Husky rescue world, has been voluntarily helping homeless Huskies since 2003. “I never actually decided to help Siberian Huskies, they decided I needed to!” she happily says. With her Georgian door always open to help Huskies in need, Shari volunteers with MUSH Rescue of Atlanta, and is currently fostering 10 dogs. “I am so blessed to have a huge following on our Buddy, the Christmas Husky Facebook page from all over the world. We have friends from just about every country that make up a huge support system. I could never have taken care of Buddy (an abused, sick, and abandoned Husky found and saved on Christmas Day by a good Samaritan before Shari came to forever foster him), or so many others without our Buddy Family supporting us both through messages of encouragement, much needed items, dog food, and, of course, monetary donations.” Finding the Right Home for a Husky According to Danielle Lahmeyer, creative director and Lorraine Healy, president and founder of Husky House Siberian Husky &Fellow K9 Rescue in New Jersey, they look “for a home that is going to be able to dedicate time, energy, and love; and people who understand the Huskies’ traits. The household should be able to provide them with a high level of activity they require. A secure home should also be provided to help keep them safe. This can include escape-proof fencing, exterior doors, and gates. For Huskies under one year old, families with prior purebred Siberian Husky experience is required.” Advice to New Husky Parents “The best piece of advice we can give to any Husky owner, new or seasoned, is to be consistent with training and allow them to have plenty of exercises!” offers Sarah Garcia, a volunteer with Free Spirit Siberian Husky Rescue in Harvard, IL, which has their own sled dog team of rescue Huskies, and is celebrating their 20th year with more than 3,000 Huskies saved! “Siberians will become mischievous when they are bored, so they need constant brain stimulation. Training is a great part of that... They need daily exercise with walks and/or runs. As many of us a say, 'a tired husky is a happy Husky.'” Snow Dogs in Warm Climates? Absolutely! “Huskies can certainly deal with the Florida weather!” states Janet C., the social media coordinator for Siberian Husky Rescue of Florida, Inc. (SHRF), who has been working in rescue since 2005. In warm climates, keep your Husky indoors in the air condition, advises Janet, who says, “If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your Husky.” Janet mentions that Huskies born in Florida can adjust easily into a new home, and relocated ones from colder climates can also adapt well; but she emphasizes, “You cannot leave them outside.” Early mornings and when the sun goes down are the best times to go out. But, says Janet, “They adjust!” Huskies Are Family Members Advises Janet, “Read the educational section on our website. Get some books. Educate yourself on the breed. Sometimes the reasons people dump their Huskies is typical Siberian Husky behavior they should have known before making the Husky a part of their family. You have to be willing to look at your dog as a family member, and to commit to it and to training, and also if they have medical issues. Whatever you do for your child you should do for your dog. If you cannot treat your dog properly, do not have one in the first place. They deserve the love and respect you give your kids.” Adopt, Don’t Shop! Steph Konz, executive director of Taysia Blue Rescue in Nebraska states, “Adopting a dog is great, just due your homework and make sure it's the right dog. And, please, don't buy dogs! Please share with people when you adopt and why it's better than buying a puppy. Puppies are a lot of work and I can usually find a dog with the look you want that is house trained and kennel trained and doesn't chew on your shoes.” Fabulous Foster Families “Foster families are our lifeblood!” proclaims Steph. “Without fosters, we can't do any of what we do. They provide a safe, loving, low-stress environment for dogs coming from shelters. It helps the dogs to learn to live properly in a home, and it helps with… training. Sometimes people are thinking they want to add another dog or maybe they aren't sure (these) are the right breed for them, so fostering gives them a chance to try it out without making the lifelong commitment to the dog.” Jodi Klein, vice-president of Tails of the Tundra Siberian Husky Rescue in Pennsylvania, has fostered more than 25Huskies for over 15 years, and offers some sage advice, “Ask a lot of questions from a seasoned foster home. The most important factor is being open-minded, knowing your own household and what will fit in it, and being committed to learning while helping.” Notes Danielle of Husky House, “There are thousands of homeless Huskies and mixes sitting in shelters on death row right now. By fostering… you are making room in our shelter for us to help more dogs.” And who knows? Maybe the situation will even become a “foster fail” — a term of endearment that means the Husky being fostered became adopted by the foster family! How to Find a Siberian Husky Rescue Visit FiveSibes listing at https://fivesibes.com/rescues---lostfound-pets.html. You can also check out RescueMe.org’s list of national and international Siberian Husky rescues at: http://husky.rescueshelter.com/. Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom). :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Prevent Your Dog from Running Away
How to Prevent Your Dog from Running Away Dogs love jumping, playing, romping, and roaming free. There is nothing as beautiful as watching my own dog playing in an open field freely. But, there are also a few considerations with situations such as an open field. You always have to keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from running away. You may think your pet is trained well enough and loves you so it will never leave you. Chances are, though, you’re wrong. I’ve lost my Sheltie multiple times. She is well trained, loves my family, stays on a leash, etc. Even with all of that, she’s gotten lost. Why do dogs run away? Running away is like a “self-rewarding behavior” among dogs. There are plenty of reasons for running away from home. For example: When it notices another dog. On a quest for snacks or food. If it fears something in your house like the generator or the vacuum cleaner. In need of reproductive drive. When it notices something interesting outside like a ball and wants to play with it. When it finds an easy escape route from home. To raid your neighbor’s trash in search of “treasures” etc. Overall, it’s a natural behavior for dogs to run away from home, and the freedom is a good temptation for them. How to prevent your dog from running away There are several steps that you can follow to prevent your dog from running away. For example: 1. Redesign your home: The design of your home could contribute to your dog running away. Lack of a pet-friendly sleeping place, playing zone, eating place or other facts might lead your dog to run off from your home. 2. Reward for returning home: Rewarding your dog whenever it returns home might be the best way to keep your dog from running away. You may treat him with his favorite food, whenever he returns home. 3. Entertain your dog: Lack of interaction or entertainment is a major issue that could cause your dog to run away. Primarily, you may buy some good-looking, interesting, and interactive toys for your dog. These toys will help to overcome the boredom of your furry pal. 4. Evaluate your dog’s needs: Different dog breeds have different habits. Some may like to lie around while others like to roam all the time. That’s why you should know the basic nature of your dog, and take the needs of different breeds into consideration before adding a four-legged friend to your home. Always make sure you’ve fulfilled your dog’s primary needs. For example, if you own a couple of Huskies, you can’t keep them in your home all day with nothing to do. Huskies are quite independent and love to play, you should provide a space to play and plenty of stimulation. 5. Seek professional help: If you feel like you’ve tried it all and nothing is working, consider seeking professional help. Professionals will help you address the cause for your dog’s habit of getting loose, as well as how to fix and prevent it. Final words: Losing your pet is one of the worst things that can happen as a pet owner, however, the provided tips can help reduce the chance of it happening. Always make sure your dog’s tags are up to date and you have current photos of them in the event that they do escape so that you can be reunited quickly. Got more tips? Let us know in the comments below! Lauretta Williams Lauretta Williams is a web-addicted blogger. She loves spending her time listening to music, playing with her dog and writing blogs from her computer. We all want our dog not to run from home. But sometimes, they still might get lost. Don't worry, we have your back. Report your lost with PawMaw we can help you find your missing pet. :|zpendofcontent|:
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