December 1, 2020

Caring and Advocating for a Senior Pet

 CARING AND ADVOCATING FOR A SENIOR PET  BY DOROTHY WILLS-RAFTERY As the proud dog mom of five Siberian Huskies that over the past 15 years all reached various ages of being a senior, the close bond that develops with our beloved canine companions is a cherished one. While their gait may be slower in their golden years, their loyalty and enjoyment to be with their humans never slows down!  What is one of the most important things a caregiver of a senior dog, or any senior pet, can do to ensure their beloved companion stays healthy?  Lisa Hindson, DVM, founder of Hometown Mobile Veterinary Practice in Queensbury, NY, addresses this question. “Most pet owners would agree that what they want the most for their aging companion is for them to be as physically and mentally healthy and as comfortable as possible in their ‘golden years.’ To better understand the aging process in our pets, it may be helpful to consider the physical and mental changes that may happen to a human as they age and realize that our pets often experience similar changes.” “One of the obvious differences is that our pets cannot tell us how they are feeling and what their needs might be, at least not with ‘words,’” states Dr. Hindson. “As our pets’ advocates, we are responsible for observing their behaviors, interpreting the meaning, and then taking action on their behalf.” Veterinary Care and the Senior Pet Naturally, as our pets grow older, it is especially important to continue their check-ups as a preventative measure. “More frequent veterinary care will address the changing medical needs of your pet,” explains Dr. Hindson.  “Examinations and routine laboratory tests can identify the onset of diseases such as over or under active thyroid illness, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, and arthritis or neurologic decline. Working with your veterinarian you can formulate a plan to address any disease or illness that might include medications, supplements, dietary modifications, and any exercise/activity limitations or therapies.” Changes in a Senior Dog Your beloved dog just celebrated a big birthday, but along with the party and doggy cake comes some changes. Older dogs may develop vision and hearing loss, problems with mobility, and increased anxiety. “These physical changes often result in new behaviors that are challenging for an owner to understand,” explains Dr. Hindson. “It is here where it may be necessary to modify your pet’s environment to improve their quality of living.” Mobility issues can be one of the most disturbing changes seen in older dogs. Dr. Hindson explains that this can occur for a multitude of reason including, arthritis, tendon and ligament soreness and neurologic and/or nerve degeneration. “These changes become clear when a pet can no longer easily navigate stairs, has trouble getting up from laying down, can’t jump up onto furniture or into the vehicle, won’t walk on slippery floors, can’t stand to eat or drink, won’t lay in their favorite bed, and generally seems more anxious.” As a mobile or “housecall” veterinarian, Dr. Hindson has “the privilege of being able to observe many of my patients in their home environments. When considering elderly and senior pets, I have found that apart from regular vet care, one of the most important things for owners to understand is what their senior pet needs to be as comfortable as possible in their own home.” Ways to Help Keep Our Senior Dogs Comfortable: Here are some of Dr. Hindson’s helpful suggestions to provide comfort for aging pets in their own home: Be sure stairways have secure, non-slip footing (indoor/outdoor carpeting) and are well lighted. Consider installing ramps over stairs (where practical) and providing steps to access furniture and vehicles. Use a harness or a long towel beneath their belly, to help them get up from lying down, while using stairs, or positioning to urinate and defecate. Place non-slip, rubber backed carpeted runners and/or rugs over tile, linoleum, and hard wood floors. Elevate food and water dishes to a height appropriate for your pet so they can stand comfortably to eat and drink. Be sure the footing below the entire feeding area is non-slip. Consider a more supportive or firm bed, such as an orthopedic mattress, as many older pets have trouble moving their legs in a thick, soft bed and may get twisted or trip and fall. Keep providing some sort of “low impact” exercise, and avoid extreme heat or cold temperatures. In winter, consider clearing pathways though deep snow and treat ice with pet friendly ice melt. Senior Pets in Need According to the ASPCA, “It is a sad fact that senior pets are often the last to be adopted from shelters, putting them at an increased risk for euthanasia. When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not only welcoming a lifetime of love into your home, you’re also saving a precious life.” Why Adopt a Senior Dog?  Travis and Lisa Poper of Animal Town Sanctuary, Cave Creek, AZ, know senior dogs well. Their mission is to “rescue unadoptable Siberian Huskies and Nordic breeds and let them live out the rest of their natural lives in a stress free and natural environment at Animal Town. All of our residents are seniors rescued from death row shelters.”  At Animal Town Sanctuary, the Popers give their senior dogs a lifetime of love and care, including end-of-life care, in a welcoming environment where there are no cages. They also provide educational information to the public, including holistic treatment care.  Notes Lisa, “We love our seniors mostly because what you see is what you get. They have matured personalities, which often includes the benefit of being potty trained. They require less time and attention, yet they are fully appreciative of extra time and belly rubs.” Interested in adopting a senior dog, but not sure where to go? Visit The Grey Muzzle Organization! If you looking to network with other senior dog parents, check out the Senior Dog Care Club Facebook Group.  AUTHOR BIO 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 AmericanPet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of her award-winning "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is an 11-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2019, 2017, and 2016 for her fiction, writing, photography & design. She was also awarded The Grey Muzzle Award by The Grey Muzzle Organization for "Excellence in writing/media of the plight of at-risk senior dogs" on her show “The Sibe Vibe” broadcasted on Dog Works Radio and iTunes. 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, grandson, and granddaughter. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).

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August 23, 2020

Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Affecting Our Dogs?

IS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AFFECTING OUR DOGS? By Dorothy Wills-Raftery This has certainly been a very trying, crazy, and scary time for everyone as we all have self-quarantined at home and are still facing so many uncertainties with the pandemic known as COVID-19. While we humans adjust and readjust to instructions on how to #staysafe, especially now as foks return to work and school, is it affecting our dogs? And, can our dogs get and/or spread the virus? For dogs, having their beloved family members home all the time is a joy! More time to go for walks together, play, and snuggle. A dog’s dream! But, what happens as the restrictions are lifted, and a dog’s hu-family starts back to work, school, or other activities allowed under the pandemic guidelines? While under the “new normal,” old ways of working, attending school, and even shopping have changed. People work from home, while students’ classrooms are now at home via distance learning, and shopping can be done via curbside pickup, all allowing our dogs to be a bigger part of our daily lives. How wonderful is it to have your canine companion at your side while working from home or shopping for supplies? With the kids home, it’s been one big play party for our dogs! But, now as family members are starting to return to their work places, the sudden absence in a dog’s home can certainly create an upset. Dogs can develop separation anxiety, and the once content-at-being-home dog can display behaviors from whining and barking to pacing, and even destructive behaviors such as chewing. To help your dog adjust to your return “to the real world” after so many months of being home, here are some helpful tips:  Paws were made for walking! Even if you can’t pop home to walk your dog in the middle of the day, be sure to have a nice walk before and after you come home. Allow yourself time so the walk is relaxed, and not rushed. Ply your pup with lots of attention! And maybe you can ask a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor to take your dog out for a midday walk. Let’s play ball! When you are home, head outside and engage in some fun dog play, such as an energetic game of Fetch! A tired dog is a happy dog! Brain power! A good source of mental stimulation for dogs are puzzles! So when you get home from work, break out a puzzle or two. Nothing spells fun like hunting out treats in a maze with a dog’s human! Just a little shutterbug! If you are working or studying from home, what a great time to take some photos of your dog doing things s/he loves to do—running through that sprinkler, rolling on the grass, giving you smooches, and catching that Frisbee! Today’s moments become tomorrow’s memories! What’s that song? Music can be a great friend to your dog who suddenly finds himself alone. Make a dog-friendly playlist (classical music tops the list in calming shelter dogs) that you can set up through your smart TV, or even set a music channel on the radio or television to fill the house with friendly, soothing sounds. (My Huskies enjoy the weather channel as it has it all—talking and music)! Keeping calm. If it seems your dog is not happy with the sudden change, check with your veterinarian about calming aids. There are some great pheromone sprays and plug-ins, as well as natural calming products ranging from a fitted shirt to an herbal oral spray, CBD or full-spectrum hemp-infused treats, oils, and capsules, and even some diffused essential oils (note: always check with vet as some oils can be a trigger for a dog with seizures). If nothing works, your vet can also recommend a prescription anti-anxiety medication. Keeping close while #SocialDistancing. Naturally, our dogs won’t be wearing masks, but these days it is a good practice to limit human-dog contact with others who do not reside in your home. Instead, take your dog outside to meet folks while #socialdistancing. Just nicely request others to not kiss your dog, as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has stated that, “We are still learning about this virus, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.” Feeling under the weather? If you need to self-quarantine, use common sense when caring for your dog by keeping a distance, no kisses, and always wash and disinfect your hands before and after handling your dog’s items! “More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19,” states the CDC. Can our dogs get and/or spread Covid-19? According to the CDC, “Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. A small number of pets worldwide, including cats and dogs, have been reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19.” Most recently, a 7-year-old German Shepherd named “Buddy” from Staten Island, NY who, according to National Geographic, “became the first dog in the United States to be confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19,” has passed away. “Even though the German shepherd likely had cancer, his health records show how little we know about animals and the coronavirus.” So, until more is known about this new virus, and how we can beat it, always err on the side of caution for both you and your dog. Together, we can do this, and #StaySafe. Questions? Check with your dog’s vet and refer to the Center for Disease Control (CDS) website for any and all updates for both humans and animals! AUTHOR BIO 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 AmericanPet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of her award-winning "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is an 11-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2019, 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, grandson, and granddaughter. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).

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June 24, 2020

6 Benefits of Children Growing Up with a Dog

6 Benefits of Children Growing Up with a Dog Most children adore dogs and there’s a very good reason for that. They are cute, cuddly, and make terrific, reliable friends. It has also been scientifically proven that growing up with a dog can boost a child’s psychological and physical development.  For that reason and many others, many families with young children decide to get a dog – later, they can’t imagine what their life looked like without the family dog. Here are some of the main benefits for children when they grow up with a dog: Most children adore dogs and there’s a very good reason for that. They are cute, cuddly, and make terrific, reliable friends. It has also been scientifically proven that growing up with a dog can boost a child’s psychological and physical development.  For that reason and many others, many families with young children decide to get a dog – later, they can’t imagine what their life looked like without the family dog. Here are some of the main benefits for children when they grow up with a dog: 1. Consistent fun, socialization, and support Whatever we may think as adults, childhood is not all sunshine and rainbows. Just like us, children can experience feelings of fear, sadness, loneliness, isolation, and sadness – and when they do, these feelings are usually much more intense than the ones we know as adults. A pet is one of the best ways to provide consistent and reliable emotional support and socialization outside the parent and sibling circle. A dog will be there through the good and the bad of a child’s life. This way, they provide a sense of security, safety, and trust. Even when they get into a fight with their sibling, their dog will be there for them. When they get a bad grade at school, they can turn to their dog for consolation. If they have difficulty adapting to social circles in a new school, a dog can help with emotional support tremendously.  Taking care of a dog and cuddling was shown to decrease stress levels and help people relax, which is why pet therapy in many settings is now a valuable and efficient stress management method. 2. Health and Immune System Benefits Recent studies have shown that babies who grew up in close contact with a house pet rarely caught any illnesses during their first year, which also implies fewer visits to the family doctor. This is because exposure to dogs (and other pets) and the microbes they bring into the home from the great outdoors helps boost the baby’s immune system. Research has also shown that children who grow up with dogs are less likely to suffer from allergies.  3. Active Habits and Lifestyle Taking care of a dog and regular walks mean that the owners will be in circumstances where they have to lead a more active lifestyle. This applies to both adults and children. There has been scientific research focused on proving this thesis, but any dog owner and their family can testify that this is definitely true. Through playtime and walks, children with dogs get significantly more exercise each day compared to children who don’t have dogs or other outdoor-active pets.  All dogs need regular walks, runs, and a lot of playtime. When you add an adorable puppy to your family, you’ll surely be motivated to walk and run more! The best contribution to building good habits is that you’ll have the motivation to get dressed and walk around the block even when you don’t feel like it – which is probably when you need it the most. 4. Less Worrying, More Happiness One of the most obvious benefits of owning a dog in early childhood is very simple: dogs make children happier (and adults, too). It has been proven that interaction with animals increases dopamine and serotonin levels, which are crucial chemical components of positive emotions. Even without the scientific proof, just seeing your children with big smiles on their faces when they play with their dog will testify to this.  Dogs will brighten up everybody’s day, which can also break the chain of bad moods in a family. For example, if you’re under stress at work and come home to see your dog wiggling your tail happy to see you, you can instantly get a mood boost and be more positive around your children.  5. Responsibility Lessons If you have had to chance to teach responsibility to children without the help of a living being (such as cleaning, money, sticking to their word, etc.), you probably know that it’s much harder than it sounds. Children soak up information and lessons all of the time, but sometimes it’s hard to explain why responsibility is valuable because they don’t get the instant results from it.  This is why owning a pet is a great way to teach your children responsibility, routine, and consistency. For many children, making sure that the family dog has water and food is a first glimpse into the world of commitment and responsibility.  6. Higher Empathy Levels Next to responsibility, owning a dog teaches children empathy and compassion. Kids love their dogs and they want them to be happy, healthy, and active, which is why their well-being will perfectly illustrate to them that they have to take certain actions to make that happen for them. While taking care of their dog, children will also develop higher levels of self-confidence, because they are able to take care of someone else.  Conclusion: Children growing up with a dog can enrich a family’s life in many ways: it’s a great way to teach children responsibility, empathy, and friendship, but also an incentive to lead a more active lifestyle. Adding a family dog to your family unit can be one of the best gifts you can give your children: not only as kids but as love that will follow them for the rest of their lives.  1. Consistent fun, socialization, and support Whatever we may think as adults, childhood is not all sunshine and rainbows. Just like us, children can experience feelings of fear, sadness, loneliness, isolation, and sadness – and when they do, these feelings are usually much more intense than the ones we know as adults. A pet is one of the best ways to provide consistent and reliable emotional support and socialization outside the parent and sibling circle. A dog will be there through the good and the bad of a child’s life. This way, they provide a sense of security, safety, and trust. Even when they get into a fight with their sibling, their dog will be there for them. When they get a bad grade at school, they can turn to their dog for consolation. If they have difficulty adapting to social circles in a new school, a dog can help with emotional support tremendously.  Taking care of a dog and cuddling was shown to decrease stress levels and help people relax, which is why pet therapy in many settings is now a valuable and efficient stress management method. 2. Health and Immune System Benefits Recent studies have shown that babies who grew up in close contact with a house pet rarely caught any illnesses during their first year, which also implies fewer visits to the family doctor. This is because exposure to dogs (and other pets) and the microbes they bring into the home from the great outdoors helps boost the baby’s immune system. Research has also shown that children who grow up with dogs are less likely to suffer from allergies.  3. Active Habits and Lifestyle Taking care of a dog and regular walks mean that the owners will be in circumstances where they have to lead a more active lifestyle. This applies to both adults and children. There has been scientific research focused on proving this thesis, but any dog owner and their family can testify that this is definitely true. Through playtime and walks, children with dogs get significantly more exercise each day compared to children who don’t have dogs or other outdoor-active pets.  All dogs need regular walks, runs, and a lot of playtime. When you add an adorable puppy to your family, you’ll surely be motivated to walk and run more! The best contribution to building good habits is that you’ll have the motivation to get dressed and walk around the block even when you don’t feel like it – which is probably when you need it the most. 4. Less Worrying, More Happiness One of the most obvious benefits of owning a dog in early childhood is very simple: dogs make children happier (and adults, too). It has been proven that interaction with animals increases dopamine and serotonin levels, which are crucial chemical components of positive emotions. Even without the scientific proof, just seeing your children with big smiles on their faces when they play with their dog will testify to this.  Dogs will brighten up everybody’s day, which can also break the chain of bad moods in a family. For example, if you’re under stress at work and come home to see your dog wiggling your tail happy to see you, you can instantly get a mood boost and be more positive around your children.  5. Responsibility Lessons If you have had to chance to teach responsibility to children without the help of a living being (such as cleaning, money, sticking to their word, etc.), you probably know that it’s much harder than it sounds. Children soak up information and lessons all of the time, but sometimes it’s hard to explain why responsibility is valuable because they don’t get the instant results from it.  This is why owning a pet is a great way to teach your children responsibility, routine, and consistency. For many children, making sure that the family dog has water and food is a first glimpse into the world of commitment and responsibility.  6. Higher Empathy Levels Next to responsibility, owning a dog teaches children empathy and compassion. Kids love their dogs and they want them to be happy, healthy, and active, which is why their well-being will perfectly illustrate to them that they have to take certain actions to make that happen for them. While taking care of their dog, children will also develop higher levels of self-confidence, because they are able to take care of someone else.  Conclusion: Children growing up with a dog can enrich a family’s life in many ways: it’s a great way to teach children responsibility, empathy, and friendship, but also an incentive to lead a more active lifestyle. Adding a family dog to your family unit can be one of the best gifts you can give your children: not only as kids but as love that will follow them for the rest of their lives.  Author’s Bio: Daniela McVicker is a psychologist and family counselor. She is also a freelance writer and a contributor to Topwritersreview and Essayguard. Her passion is writing about leading a healthy family life and helping people enjoy their lives to the fullest. :|zpendofcontent|:

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January 1, 2020

The One Pet Item You Need to Have in the New Year! Hint: It’s Not Just For Your Dog!

    The One Pet Item You Need to Have in the New Year! Hint: It’s Not Just For Your Dog!             Welcome 2020! With the arrival of January, many of us are taking our dogs out for excursions in the snow, or hitting the hiking trails to walk off some of that holiday cheer! In many areas snow abounds, which means wet and muddy boots, wet snow shovels, and even canisters of pet-friendly ice melt, which sometimes makes keeping the car clean and dry a difficult task! But not if you have a 4knines Cargo Liner! Having a cargo liner can not only help keep your vehicle clean, but it also gives your pets a safer, more solid footing when in the back of your car (and be sure to buckle them up for safety)!                             The great thing about a 4Knines cargo liner is that it is multi-functional, and not just for pet families! The liner can help keep your car clean in many different ways – all year long! Maybe you are removing your Christmas tree and need to keep all the drying needles from spreading around your SUV. And, even though it’s just January, spring is not too far off in the distance and thoughts of a blossoming garden may be dancing in your head! With a 4Knines Cargo Liner, your vehicle can be protected from dirty gardening tools, bags of mulch and fertilizer, and even new shrubs and plants.                                           Did You Know? 4Knines is committed to giving back to the animal community. They donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups, so the cargo liner you purchase not only helps to protect your vehicle, it also helps animals in need!   With having five Siberian Huskies over the years, keeping the back of our SUV could be a real challenge! From fur to drool to muddy pawprints, finding the right cargo liner was so important! We needed to have one that was not complicated and that we could leave in the vehicle. We also wanted one that did not slide around and could be easily cleaned. 4Knines has not just one, but two cargo liners to suit your vehicle needs!   The 4Knines Multi-Function Split SUV Cargo Liner   This multi-functional liner design is exclusive to 4Knines! The split SUV Cargo Liner makes it so convenient as it covers the cargo area and back of seats, whether your seats are up or down! “This is the only seat cover that allows you access to the middle seat belt, fold-down seats, or armrest without removing the cover. No other company has it!” proudly states 4Knines. So no need to remove the liner when adjusting the seats for various types of cargo or pets! The bottom is also slip-proof, which makes it perfect for transporting your canine companions, whether they are seat-buckled in or safely tucked in travel crates.                                           Check out this video on the 4Knines Split Cargo Liner:                                           4Knines Premium Dog Cargo Liner   The Premium Dog Cargo Liner is for SUVs or vans, and share many of the same great features as the 4Knines Multi-Function Split Dog Cargo Liner.                                           Check out this video on the 4Knines Premium Dog Cargo Liner:                                           Did You Know? 4Knines stand behind their products 100%. If your 4Knines® product does not work for your vehicle for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. No hassle. No explanation needed.   Both 4Knines Cargo Liners share excellent features:   They come in THREE SIZES: SMALL 42" x 78", LARGE 52" x 82", and XLARGE: 55" x 106" (including 20" bumper flap).  Be sure to measure your vehicle for a proper fit.    They come in THREE COLORS to match the interior of your vehicle: Black, Gray, and Tan. They are HEAVY-DUTY – The liners are colorfast and free of AZO dyes and heavy chemicals like lead, arsenic, or mercury. They are WATERPROOF & NON-SLIP - Special solid waterproof layer makes the seat bottom completely waterproofed (seams, stitching, and zippers are not watertight). THEY ARE BOTH EASY TO INSTALL - Installs in seconds with quick-release clips. Check out Jim's installation video!  EASY TO CLEAN - Hose it down, wipe down with a moist towel, or toss it in the washer to keep it looking fresh and clean.     Get Your Choice of 4Knines Cargo Liner Today! To read more about the 4Knines CargoLiners, including fit guide, prices, and ordering info, visit HERE today!                                           So with the dawn of a shiny new year comes excitement for all of the upcoming seasons filled with fun projects and activities, and many adventures with your dog. With a 4Knines Cargo Liner installed, you can keep your vehicle clean while doing them all!     Happy New Year!                 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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November 28, 2019

Canine Epilepsy: Cold Packs Can Help Dogs with Seizures

Canine Epilepsy: Cold Packs Can Help Dogs with Seizures November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. However, every day is a good day to help advocate for those living with epilepsy, including dogs. Become an advocate for dogs with Canine Epilepsy (Epi-dogs) and emphasize awareness by sharing success stories, information, and important educational resources. While there are some breeds of dogs that have a genetic predisposition to epilepsy, Canine Epilepsy can affect dogs of any breed or mix across the globe. “Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder in dogs,” states Dr. Karen Muñana, a professor of neurology at the North Carolina State University-College of Veterinary Medicine (NCSU-CVM) who continuously conducts extensive research into companion animal epilepsy. NCSU-CVMis also the home of the Nationwide Database of Pets with Epilepsy by Dr. Muñana and registered veterinary technician and research specialist Julie Nettifee. These lists help them gather information on “specific breeds or characteristics needed for a particular study.” You can submit your Epi-dog’s information to be on file. All information is kept confidential within the research lab.   According to Dr. Muñana, “The term epilepsy is used to describe recurrent seizures that arise due to an abnormality in the brain. The most common cause of recurrent seizures in dogs is idiopathic epilepsy.”   To help a dog diagnosed with Canine Epilepsy, it’s important to have an in-depth conversation with your vet and agree on a treatment method. Also learn about possible triggers, how seizures can affect dogs, and what to do after the seizure is over. The most important thing to do if your dog has had a seizure is call your veterinarian and explain the seizure, how long the seizure lasted, what your dog was eating or doing prior to the seizure. Make notes in a journal (hard copy or digital on your smart device) and if possible, videotape your dog having the seizure to share with your vet. Also, create an Epi-Dog First Aid Kit that contains instant cold packs and keep it in a designated spot in the house so all family members know where to find it should an emergency arise.    Cooling a Dog After a Seizure After your dog has had a seizure, and you have placed a call to your vet, you will need to monitor him/her carefully as s/he will be disoriented, possibly even experience temporary blindness, and body temperature may become dangerously high. During a seizure, a dog’s body temperature will rise and it is very important to get the body temperature down to avoid a serious health danger. Application of cold packs can aid in cooling down a dog that has just had a seizure.   “Normal body temperature is 102°F and often after a seizure, it will go over 105°F or 106°F,” informs Dr. Arnold Rugg, founder of Kingston Animal Hospital in New York. (https://kingstonanimalhospital.com/).“It is vet recommended to do ice packs until temperature drops to 103°F, then remove ice packs and keep dog in a dry blanket. If it drops too quickly, the dog can go into shock. Take temperature every few minutes and if seizure persists, go to the vet immediately.”   Where Do I Put the Cold Packs? There are several places to put the cool packs on a dog. To view or request copies of the vet-approved poster for placement of cool packs, please refer to the #Paws4Purple #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong educational page over at The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for the “Cooling Down an Epi-Dog: Where Do I Put Cold Packs?”  If you do not have a cold pack, you can make one by putting crushed iced into a locking zipper bag. If you cannot get ice, you can also use a bag of frozen peas or veggies in a pinch! If your dog has a single coat or fur is short or shaved, it is recommended that you wrap the cold pack in a towel before applying to avoid any injury to the dog’s skin. When transporting a dog that has seizures to the vet, a car seat cover can be very important. Not only will it protect your car seat, but it will also help keep your dog from slipping and sliding on the seat. 4Knines offers many different styles and they come with a USA Staff & 2-Year Warranty. Free #Paws4Purple Canine Epilepsy Informational Materials For more information on Canine Epilepsy, visit www.FiveSibes.com for the #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness online resource library. To receive the educational #Paws4Purple flyers, bookmarks, and/or Cold Pack poster on Canine Epilepsy, simply Emailannmarie@akfus.org and put #Paws4Purple in the subject line and let the organization know where to send them. These materials are excellent to display and handout to veterinary offices, ER clinics, rescues, grooming businesses, doggie daycare centers, canine schools, dog parks, school districts, police or fire departments, or any other organization, municipality, or group that would like a supply. They are free of charge, but a donation to The Anita Kaufmann Foundation is greatly appreciated. Free Digital versions are also available at: http://purpledayeveryday.org/paws-4-purple/ 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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November 12, 2019

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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October 8, 2019

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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September 19, 2019

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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September 17, 2019

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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August 20, 2019

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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August 14, 2019

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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July 16, 2019

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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