Even if you or your kids like dressing crazy, going to parties, or begging for candy, Halloween is not so much fun. We dogs don’t like strangers to begin with, and there are some really strange characters wandering the streets during trick or treat. Here are some ideas to keep us pets safe on Halloween.
• Keep us inside. There are a bunch of crazies out there who like to pull mean pranks on Halloween. We’d rather be with you.
• Keep us in another room. I want to greet everyone who comes to the door and protect you from all those strange characters. Let me stay somewhere more quiet and peaceful.
• Keep the treats out of reach. I’ll eat anything that smells good, and I don’t have hands to unwrap it. I know that chocolate is bad for me, but I can’t help but be curious. Remove the temptation!
• Keep candles and jack-o-lanterns out of the way. I can’t control my tail, and half the time I’m too excited to watch where I’m going. I don’t want to get hurt or start a fire.
• Don't dress me up! I know you think we look cute, but costumes are sometimes dangerous, uncomfortable and our friends make fun of us.
• Take me for a walk or a run before dark. It's so much nicer to have had some exercise before the festivities begin so if I have to be in another room by myself, at least I can take a much needed nap.
Enjoy the holiday, and stay safe!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Feed abused animals with one click
Even if you get bombarded with requests for donations to animal charities, you can't pass this up.
The Animal Rescue Site gets free food donated every day to abused and neglected animals IF it meets its quota of daily clicks. By clicking on this site, and sharing it with friends, you make sure these animals get the food they need. The corporate sponsors donate food in exchange for advertising.
The Animal Rescue Site is owned and operated by Tim Kunin and Greg Hesterberg, co-owners of CharityUSA.com. As enthusiastic supporters of The Hunger Site, they realized the power of providing busy Internet users with a fast, free and easy way to make a difference and launched The Animal Rescue Site in July 2002.
"Funding for food and care is distributed to animals in need at the Fund for Animals' renowned animal sanctuaries, pet shelters supported by the Petfinder Foundation , North Shore Animal League , amazing International Fund for Animal Welfare programs that save animals in dire situations worldwide, and other worthy animal care facilities and programs supported by the GreaterGood.org foundation."
Source: http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/
You can't afford to pass up this opportunity! Click today!
AGAIN, PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS!
The Animal Rescue Site gets free food donated every day to abused and neglected animals IF it meets its quota of daily clicks. By clicking on this site, and sharing it with friends, you make sure these animals get the food they need. The corporate sponsors donate food in exchange for advertising.
The Animal Rescue Site is owned and operated by Tim Kunin and Greg Hesterberg, co-owners of CharityUSA.com. As enthusiastic supporters of The Hunger Site, they realized the power of providing busy Internet users with a fast, free and easy way to make a difference and launched The Animal Rescue Site in July 2002.
"Funding for food and care is distributed to animals in need at the Fund for Animals' renowned animal sanctuaries, pet shelters supported by the Petfinder Foundation , North Shore Animal League , amazing International Fund for Animal Welfare programs that save animals in dire situations worldwide, and other worthy animal care facilities and programs supported by the GreaterGood.org foundation."
Source: http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/
You can't afford to pass up this opportunity! Click today!
AGAIN, PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Is your dog a public nuisance?
These are the local laws where I live. Does your dog need some training to avoid being a public nuisance?
A dog shall be deemed a public nuisance for any of the following reasons (but not limited to):
1) If such a dog is found to be at large;
2) If such dog shall persistently and prolongedly bark or howl;
3) If found without wearing a license and a vaccine tag as required by Section B of this bylaw;
4) If found in a schoolyard, public or private recreation area, store, or shopping area except that a “seeing eye” dog (or other certified assistance dog) under the care and control of its owner shall be deemed to be exempt from this provision;
5) For having bitten or attacked any person;
6) For having killed or maimed or otherwise damaged any wild or domestic animal;
7) For chasing a domesticated animal, pedestrian, or vehicle on a way to which the public has a right to access within the Town;
8) For damaging or destroying property that does not belong to its owner or keeper;
9) Except that a police dog acting in the line of duty shall not be considered a public nuisance;
10) Except that a dog being used as a so-called “hunting dog,” which is being supervised as such by a person demonstrating the ability to control such dog so that it will not be a threat to public safety, shall not be considered a public nuisance;
Source: Town of Norfolk Animal Regulations
A dog shall be deemed a public nuisance for any of the following reasons (but not limited to):
1) If such a dog is found to be at large;
2) If such dog shall persistently and prolongedly bark or howl;
3) If found without wearing a license and a vaccine tag as required by Section B of this bylaw;
4) If found in a schoolyard, public or private recreation area, store, or shopping area except that a “seeing eye” dog (or other certified assistance dog) under the care and control of its owner shall be deemed to be exempt from this provision;
5) For having bitten or attacked any person;
6) For having killed or maimed or otherwise damaged any wild or domestic animal;
7) For chasing a domesticated animal, pedestrian, or vehicle on a way to which the public has a right to access within the Town;
8) For damaging or destroying property that does not belong to its owner or keeper;
9) Except that a police dog acting in the line of duty shall not be considered a public nuisance;
10) Except that a dog being used as a so-called “hunting dog,” which is being supervised as such by a person demonstrating the ability to control such dog so that it will not be a threat to public safety, shall not be considered a public nuisance;
Source: Town of Norfolk Animal Regulations
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Leashrly Life local dog parks
If you're in the Leashrly Life area (Norfolk, Massachusetts) you may want to check out these great places to have some fun with your dog. Thanks to http://www.ecoanimal.com/dogfun/massachusetts.html for this great information.
- Foxboro Dog Park is located off Mill St in Foxboro behind the baseball field. You must show your license to get in and your dog must be registered in the town you live in. There is a pond area with a beach for the dogs to swim. You'll need to bring your own fresh water.
- Gilbert Hills State Forest is located in Foxboro and Wrentham. There is swimming for dogs in several water holes and brooks. Trails run throughout the park. Dogs can be off leash but motorized bikes share the park as well. They do have a hunting season as well. Heading south on Route 1 from Walpole, enter Foxboro, take left onto High Rock Road.
- Beaver Pond is located at Beaver Recreation Area on Beaver St. in Franklin. It has a small pond with a beach and several walking trails.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
How are a Dog Trainer and Dog Walker alike?
Both can help you with behavior problems.
According to Andrew Daigle of the Dog Training Advice and Tips website, “Lack of exercise is the root cause of many behavioral problems among dogs.”
In other words, just like us, dogs need exercise for physical and mental well-being. Not only that, but regular exercise expends the energy that might be used to chew shoes or create holes in furniture.
Daigle recommends 60-90 minutes a day of walking for your dog, divided up into morning and evening sessions. If you’re like me, you don’t have that kind of time every day, or your schedule varies too much to build in a regular routine.
Although it is ideal to set your dog up with a professional obedience trainer at about 16 weeks old, any dog can benefit from a regular walking routine. That’s where your local dog walker comes in.
Dog walkers can vary from the teenager next door to a seasoned professional. Either way, you’ll get what you pay for. Can’t afford it? Can you afford to replace that $100 pair of designer shoes? Can you afford to spend every morning and every evening tied to the other end of a leash? Your time (and your dog) is worth enough to hire someone to help you keep your “best friend” in the best shape possible.
Not to say you shouldn’t spend time with your dog from time to time... but a little help once in a while can go a long way to make your relationship with your dog a pleasure rather than a burden. Let Leashrly Life help you take better care of your dog, with dog obedience and dog walking available.
According to Andrew Daigle of the Dog Training Advice and Tips website, “Lack of exercise is the root cause of many behavioral problems among dogs.”
In other words, just like us, dogs need exercise for physical and mental well-being. Not only that, but regular exercise expends the energy that might be used to chew shoes or create holes in furniture.
Daigle recommends 60-90 minutes a day of walking for your dog, divided up into morning and evening sessions. If you’re like me, you don’t have that kind of time every day, or your schedule varies too much to build in a regular routine.
Although it is ideal to set your dog up with a professional obedience trainer at about 16 weeks old, any dog can benefit from a regular walking routine. That’s where your local dog walker comes in.
Dog walkers can vary from the teenager next door to a seasoned professional. Either way, you’ll get what you pay for. Can’t afford it? Can you afford to replace that $100 pair of designer shoes? Can you afford to spend every morning and every evening tied to the other end of a leash? Your time (and your dog) is worth enough to hire someone to help you keep your “best friend” in the best shape possible.
Not to say you shouldn’t spend time with your dog from time to time... but a little help once in a while can go a long way to make your relationship with your dog a pleasure rather than a burden. Let Leashrly Life help you take better care of your dog, with dog obedience and dog walking available.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Spending time with your dog II
Here are some more ideas on quick things you can do with your dog to make her feel special:
Teach a trick. The internet is full of fun and easy tricks you can teach your dog. Some can take a matter of minutes to learn. Your dog will appreciate the time you spent with him, and you’ll look cool in front of your friends when you show off your new trick.
Work on obedience. Just a few minutes a day reinforcing commands your dog knows is time well spent. Have your dog hold a “sit” for you or put him in a “down” while you are watching TV. Not only does it place you as pack leader, it keeps your dog’s mind stimulated.
Give a treat. Your local butcher has lots of uncooked bones with small bits of leftover meat and lots of flavor. There are lots of healthy, tasty treats you can give your dog. My dog loves her frozen ice cubes made from chicken stock. Be sure you are careful about giving high-fat, high-calorie treats to dogs that are overweight.
For more tips on working and playing with your dog, visit http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
Teach a trick. The internet is full of fun and easy tricks you can teach your dog. Some can take a matter of minutes to learn. Your dog will appreciate the time you spent with him, and you’ll look cool in front of your friends when you show off your new trick.
Work on obedience. Just a few minutes a day reinforcing commands your dog knows is time well spent. Have your dog hold a “sit” for you or put him in a “down” while you are watching TV. Not only does it place you as pack leader, it keeps your dog’s mind stimulated.
Give a treat. Your local butcher has lots of uncooked bones with small bits of leftover meat and lots of flavor. There are lots of healthy, tasty treats you can give your dog. My dog loves her frozen ice cubes made from chicken stock. Be sure you are careful about giving high-fat, high-calorie treats to dogs that are overweight.
For more tips on working and playing with your dog, visit http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Are you spending enough time with your dog?
Ever feel like your beloved friend isn’t getting enough of your attention? I do. As much time as I spend walking her, stroking her and taking her out for a hike or a swim, I sometimes feel like I’m not a good owner. Here are some quick ideas on things you can do with your dog to make him feel special:
Brushing. Some dogs love to be brushed and others simply tolerate it. In any case, brushing your dog is not only a good hygiene habit, it’s another way of showing him you care. Tender stroking of his hair feels good so try to be gentle especially if your dog isn’t one who seems to like it. The more you do it, the more comfortable and enjoyable it becomes for him.
Talking to your dog. While we know our dogs don’t understand complicated language, they do understand words. More importantly, they understand tone. By speaking softly and gently to your dog, he knows you are there and are being a good friend to him. Don’t be afraid to talk calmly to your dog. You will only put him at ease! (Note: If your dog is frightened or alarmed, you should not speak to him in a soothing way. This will only encourage your dog to be more frightened or alarmed. It is as if you are saying “that’s right. You go ahead and be scared. You should be scared. Good dog.” If your dog is afraid of a sound, for example, simply ignore the frightened behavior and go about your business. Your dog will learn by your behavior that there is nothing to be frightened about.)
Playing with your dog . I know we don’t always have but a few minutes a day, but playing fetch or keep-away is so much fun – not only for our furry friends but for ourselves as well. Throw the ball, tie a string around a toy and when your dog runs to get it, snap it away from her, toss a stick, or chase her around the yard to get her moving.
Brushing. Some dogs love to be brushed and others simply tolerate it. In any case, brushing your dog is not only a good hygiene habit, it’s another way of showing him you care. Tender stroking of his hair feels good so try to be gentle especially if your dog isn’t one who seems to like it. The more you do it, the more comfortable and enjoyable it becomes for him.
Talking to your dog. While we know our dogs don’t understand complicated language, they do understand words. More importantly, they understand tone. By speaking softly and gently to your dog, he knows you are there and are being a good friend to him. Don’t be afraid to talk calmly to your dog. You will only put him at ease! (Note: If your dog is frightened or alarmed, you should not speak to him in a soothing way. This will only encourage your dog to be more frightened or alarmed. It is as if you are saying “that’s right. You go ahead and be scared. You should be scared. Good dog.” If your dog is afraid of a sound, for example, simply ignore the frightened behavior and go about your business. Your dog will learn by your behavior that there is nothing to be frightened about.)
Playing with your dog . I know we don’t always have but a few minutes a day, but playing fetch or keep-away is so much fun – not only for our furry friends but for ourselves as well. Throw the ball, tie a string around a toy and when your dog runs to get it, snap it away from her, toss a stick, or chase her around the yard to get her moving.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Dog diseases to watch for
Distemper
A dog with distemper will have a fever spike of 103-105 degrees. A second spike may occur with loss of appetite, listlessness, watery discharge from eyes and nose and a dry cough may accompany these symptoms. The dog will have seizures and may have hard pads on its feet. It is a very serious condition.
Hepatitis
This condition effects the liver, kidney and the lining of blood vessels. Dogs with hepatitis may have a fever and won't eat. There may also be passing of blood or he may vomit blood. The dog's belly may be tucked up and there is a swelling of the liver. The eyes may be sensitive to light; there may be bleeding gums, jaundice and/or "blue" eyes (cloudy cornea).
Rabies
There are two types of rabies - Vicious and Paralytic. Animals with vicious rabies will act boldly and attack. Those with paralytic rabies have trouble with muscle coordination, will have excessive drooling and act "dumb." The law requires owners to have dogs vaccinated for rabies and it should be done when the dog is 12 -24 weeks old.
Parvo Virus
This is a common condition that might be found in puppies from 6 - 20 weeks old. Symptoms include profuse diarrhea with mucous or blood, depression and/or lethargy, vomiting and a "tucked-up" abdomen. Dehydration develops very quickly so seek medical attention immediately. Untreated Parvo Virus results in a sloughing off of the intestinal lining.
Corona Virus
The signs of Corona Virus may be varied. There may be acute diarrhea or no signs of diarrhea. Diarrhea often times is yellow/orange in color and is foul smelling. Dogs will display a loss of appetite, depression and vomiting. Dehydration is also common.
Leptospirosis
Dogs can pick this up from drinking water from puddles and streams. If left untreated it causes liver and kidney damage. Severe jaundice is usually present and fever, lethargy, depression, muscle pain, diarrhea and blood in the urine can also accompany it. If the virus gets into the blood stream it will cause the kidneys to swell and shut down. People can also be affected by this disease.
Lyme Disease
Dogs get this by being bitten by a deer tick. Symptoms include a sudden onset of lameness, and swollen joints that are painful to the touch. If left untreated Lyme disease can affect everything including the heart, limbs, etc.
Ringworm
Ringworm is recognized by a scaly, crusty circular patch. Dogs tend to lick and scratch at the infection site. The patch is identifiable from the red circular rind and hair loss surrounding the area. Humans can also be affected by ringworm.
If you're not sure if your dog is sick, but he or she doesn't seem or act "right," err on the side of caution and make an appointment with your vetrinarian. Your intuition may save your pet's life.
A dog with distemper will have a fever spike of 103-105 degrees. A second spike may occur with loss of appetite, listlessness, watery discharge from eyes and nose and a dry cough may accompany these symptoms. The dog will have seizures and may have hard pads on its feet. It is a very serious condition.
Hepatitis
This condition effects the liver, kidney and the lining of blood vessels. Dogs with hepatitis may have a fever and won't eat. There may also be passing of blood or he may vomit blood. The dog's belly may be tucked up and there is a swelling of the liver. The eyes may be sensitive to light; there may be bleeding gums, jaundice and/or "blue" eyes (cloudy cornea).
Rabies
There are two types of rabies - Vicious and Paralytic. Animals with vicious rabies will act boldly and attack. Those with paralytic rabies have trouble with muscle coordination, will have excessive drooling and act "dumb." The law requires owners to have dogs vaccinated for rabies and it should be done when the dog is 12 -24 weeks old.
Parvo Virus
This is a common condition that might be found in puppies from 6 - 20 weeks old. Symptoms include profuse diarrhea with mucous or blood, depression and/or lethargy, vomiting and a "tucked-up" abdomen. Dehydration develops very quickly so seek medical attention immediately. Untreated Parvo Virus results in a sloughing off of the intestinal lining.
Corona Virus
The signs of Corona Virus may be varied. There may be acute diarrhea or no signs of diarrhea. Diarrhea often times is yellow/orange in color and is foul smelling. Dogs will display a loss of appetite, depression and vomiting. Dehydration is also common.
Leptospirosis
Dogs can pick this up from drinking water from puddles and streams. If left untreated it causes liver and kidney damage. Severe jaundice is usually present and fever, lethargy, depression, muscle pain, diarrhea and blood in the urine can also accompany it. If the virus gets into the blood stream it will cause the kidneys to swell and shut down. People can also be affected by this disease.
Lyme Disease
Dogs get this by being bitten by a deer tick. Symptoms include a sudden onset of lameness, and swollen joints that are painful to the touch. If left untreated Lyme disease can affect everything including the heart, limbs, etc.
Ringworm
Ringworm is recognized by a scaly, crusty circular patch. Dogs tend to lick and scratch at the infection site. The patch is identifiable from the red circular rind and hair loss surrounding the area. Humans can also be affected by ringworm.
If you're not sure if your dog is sick, but he or she doesn't seem or act "right," err on the side of caution and make an appointment with your vetrinarian. Your intuition may save your pet's life.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Save your pet's life: bloat
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus - commonly known as Bloat
Bloat is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate veterinary assistance for proper diagnosis and treatment. If not treated immediately it can quickly take your dog's life.
This ailment is commonly seen in deep-chested breeds, such as Basset Hounds, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes. It is caused by an intake of gasses and fluids that aren't released. It often happens by eating too quickly, gulping water, and/or strenuous exercise after a meal.
Gasses and excess fluid trapped in the stomach expand, causing a distention (bloat) of the stomach, which is readily visible from the appearance of the dog. The distention of the stomach causes it to flip possibly a full 360 degrees and the spleen may rotate. Symptoms may include:
In order to prevent bloat from happening, feed your pet smaller meals, broken up over the course of the day particularly if you have a large, barrel-chested breed like those mentioned above. Avoid exercising your dog immediately after eating and limit water after exercise to avoid gulping.
Once bloat happens, it is common that it may happen again. Owners of deep-chested breeds that have a history of bloat may consider having the stomach stapled to abdominal muscles to prevent future problems. This preventative step should only be taken under the advisory of one or more veterinarians.
Bloat is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate veterinary assistance for proper diagnosis and treatment. If not treated immediately it can quickly take your dog's life.
This ailment is commonly seen in deep-chested breeds, such as Basset Hounds, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes. It is caused by an intake of gasses and fluids that aren't released. It often happens by eating too quickly, gulping water, and/or strenuous exercise after a meal.
Gasses and excess fluid trapped in the stomach expand, causing a distention (bloat) of the stomach, which is readily visible from the appearance of the dog. The distention of the stomach causes it to flip possibly a full 360 degrees and the spleen may rotate. Symptoms may include:
- Restlessness
- Distended abdomen
- Glassy eyes
- Unproductive retching/dry heaves
- Excessive panting
- Salivating
- Arrythmia
- Pale gums and mucous membranes
In order to prevent bloat from happening, feed your pet smaller meals, broken up over the course of the day particularly if you have a large, barrel-chested breed like those mentioned above. Avoid exercising your dog immediately after eating and limit water after exercise to avoid gulping.
Once bloat happens, it is common that it may happen again. Owners of deep-chested breeds that have a history of bloat may consider having the stomach stapled to abdominal muscles to prevent future problems. This preventative step should only be taken under the advisory of one or more veterinarians.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Making man's best friend even better II
Does your dog still:
For owners who would like to continue beyond Basic Obedience training, an advanced class may be available. This should cover in-motion commands and commands from a distance. This sets the foundation for your dog’s off-leash conditioning.
Your dog should learn:
Some dog trainers offer a "sleep over camp," where your dog stays with a certified trainer, taking care of your dog's daily needs along with advancing his training during the course of his stay.
Your dog should learn:
- Bark excessively?
- Pull on the leash?
- Destroy household items?
- Jump on people?
For owners who would like to continue beyond Basic Obedience training, an advanced class may be available. This should cover in-motion commands and commands from a distance. This sets the foundation for your dog’s off-leash conditioning.
Your dog should learn:
- Proper behavior and socialization
- To heel by your side
- Automatic sit and hold the sit
- Down and sit by your side
- Down and sit from a distance
- Down and stay command
- Come
- Place
- Down and sit in motion
Some dog trainers offer a "sleep over camp," where your dog stays with a certified trainer, taking care of your dog's daily needs along with advancing his training during the course of his stay.
Your dog should learn:
- Proper behavior
- Socialization skills
- Crate training
- House breaking
- On leash commands with hand signals
- All basic obedience commands and in-motion commands
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Making man's best friend even better I
Does your dog:
Look for a personal trainer with years of experience. Programs should not be a textbook format. Your trainer will show you techniques that will be tailored specifically for your dog's personality. With that in mind you will see fast results that will last.
A good trainer will provide private classes with purposeful distractions, such as toys and other dogs on site so your dog will have positive experiences with another dog.
Puppies, dogs that are under 20 weeks of age, are at the most impressionable time in their lives. It is much easier to teach good behavior than it is to break bad habits. In a 45-minute consultation you should learn how to prevent bad behaviors from starting and to stop current negative behaviors.
The initial consultation should help you learn about your puppy’s personality. Basic commands such as sit, come, place and how to walk without pulling on the leash would be reviewed. Behavioral problems along with house breaking would be covered as well.
When a dog is at least 16 weeks old, basic obedience training is the first step in solving a behavioral problem. Obedience training is your dog's education on how to coexist with humans. It establishes a line of communication between you and your dog.
A basic training program should cover basic commands like:
- Bark excessively?
- Pull on the leash?
- Destroy household items?
- Jump on people?
Look for a personal trainer with years of experience. Programs should not be a textbook format. Your trainer will show you techniques that will be tailored specifically for your dog's personality. With that in mind you will see fast results that will last.
A good trainer will provide private classes with purposeful distractions, such as toys and other dogs on site so your dog will have positive experiences with another dog.
Puppies, dogs that are under 20 weeks of age, are at the most impressionable time in their lives. It is much easier to teach good behavior than it is to break bad habits. In a 45-minute consultation you should learn how to prevent bad behaviors from starting and to stop current negative behaviors.
The initial consultation should help you learn about your puppy’s personality. Basic commands such as sit, come, place and how to walk without pulling on the leash would be reviewed. Behavioral problems along with house breaking would be covered as well.
When a dog is at least 16 weeks old, basic obedience training is the first step in solving a behavioral problem. Obedience training is your dog's education on how to coexist with humans. It establishes a line of communication between you and your dog.
A basic training program should cover basic commands like:
- Sit
- Down
- Place
- Heel
- Come
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Caring for your dog in the summer II
Sunscreen
Boston or Bull Terriers, and other white, shorthaired dogs or dogs with pale ears or noses need special care in the summer months. If your dog is white or has a pale nose or ears, buy some sunblock for your pet. Apply it to vulnerable spots every day. Because dogs have a natural inclination to lick off anything that is applied to their fur and skin, use a sunscreen that is known to be non-toxic to dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you if you are not sure which product to buy.
Swimming
Many dogs love the water. If your dog has never been swimming, try slowly introducing him to a lake, a pond or a pool. Get in the water with your dog as he builds confidence. Throw a toy or a stick a small distance away from you and encourage him to retrieve it. Or, bring another dog with you who loves the water and watch as your pet learns to swim by keeping up with his friend. If you want to be even more comfortable, purchase a life vest made especially for pets. The vest has handles to help you lift your dog into and out of the water. Finally, don't forget to rinse your dog with clean, fresh water after he's been swimming to be sure to get off any chemicals or bacteria.
By following these simple guidelines (including those regarding heat and hydration), you and your pet will surely have a more fun and safe summer!
Boston or Bull Terriers, and other white, shorthaired dogs or dogs with pale ears or noses need special care in the summer months. If your dog is white or has a pale nose or ears, buy some sunblock for your pet. Apply it to vulnerable spots every day. Because dogs have a natural inclination to lick off anything that is applied to their fur and skin, use a sunscreen that is known to be non-toxic to dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you if you are not sure which product to buy.
Swimming
Many dogs love the water. If your dog has never been swimming, try slowly introducing him to a lake, a pond or a pool. Get in the water with your dog as he builds confidence. Throw a toy or a stick a small distance away from you and encourage him to retrieve it. Or, bring another dog with you who loves the water and watch as your pet learns to swim by keeping up with his friend. If you want to be even more comfortable, purchase a life vest made especially for pets. The vest has handles to help you lift your dog into and out of the water. Finally, don't forget to rinse your dog with clean, fresh water after he's been swimming to be sure to get off any chemicals or bacteria.
By following these simple guidelines (including those regarding heat and hydration), you and your pet will surely have a more fun and safe summer!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Caring for your dog in the summer I
With summer just around the corner, it's important to know how to best care for your dog.
As the weather becomes increasingly warm, many dogs like to lie in the sun, swim, or play freely with their owners. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburns are common and can become serious very quickly.
Heat and Hydration
Pay special attention to your dog’s food and drink during the summer. On hot days, when dogs lose more moisture through panting, dogs may drink more than usual. Keep checking that your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water. It's probably a good idea to put an extra bowl of water outside if your dog spends time in the yard. Remember, water will evaporate more quickly from bowls when the weather is hot, so always be sure there's plenty of water and that it's changed frequently.
When you take your dog for a walk in the summer, particularly when the weather is hot, carry some extra water for your dog, and a bowl. Stop frequently to allow your pet to have a drink. Wrapping a cool pad or wet bandana around your dog’s neck before heading outside can help her stay cooler and avoid heat exhaustion.
Never, ever, leave a dog in the car when it is hot, even with a window open. Don't be fooled into thinking you can quickly pop into a store and your dog will be fine in the car. In the summer, parked cars, even if they are in the shade, can heat up like ovens in a very short time. Panting is not efficient enough to cool the dog in such conditions. Dogs can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion if they are exposed to extreme heat for too long.
Strenuous exercise in hot, humid weather can also cause heat stroke. The symptoms are obvious – restlessness, panting excessively, and drooling. Dehydration is another severe condition if not treated immediately. Dogs suffering from dehydration may have a loss of skin elasticity and their mouths may become dry and tacky with thick saliva. If the dog is not treated immediately it can become a very serious condition.
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion, lower its temperature by bathing it in cool - not cold - water and wrap a damp towel around the dog. This is a serious medical emergency and you must seek veterinary attention immediately.
As the weather becomes increasingly warm, many dogs like to lie in the sun, swim, or play freely with their owners. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and sunburns are common and can become serious very quickly.
Heat and Hydration
Pay special attention to your dog’s food and drink during the summer. On hot days, when dogs lose more moisture through panting, dogs may drink more than usual. Keep checking that your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water. It's probably a good idea to put an extra bowl of water outside if your dog spends time in the yard. Remember, water will evaporate more quickly from bowls when the weather is hot, so always be sure there's plenty of water and that it's changed frequently.
When you take your dog for a walk in the summer, particularly when the weather is hot, carry some extra water for your dog, and a bowl. Stop frequently to allow your pet to have a drink. Wrapping a cool pad or wet bandana around your dog’s neck before heading outside can help her stay cooler and avoid heat exhaustion.
Never, ever, leave a dog in the car when it is hot, even with a window open. Don't be fooled into thinking you can quickly pop into a store and your dog will be fine in the car. In the summer, parked cars, even if they are in the shade, can heat up like ovens in a very short time. Panting is not efficient enough to cool the dog in such conditions. Dogs can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion if they are exposed to extreme heat for too long.
Strenuous exercise in hot, humid weather can also cause heat stroke. The symptoms are obvious – restlessness, panting excessively, and drooling. Dehydration is another severe condition if not treated immediately. Dogs suffering from dehydration may have a loss of skin elasticity and their mouths may become dry and tacky with thick saliva. If the dog is not treated immediately it can become a very serious condition.
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion, lower its temperature by bathing it in cool - not cold - water and wrap a damp towel around the dog. This is a serious medical emergency and you must seek veterinary attention immediately.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Pet care options during vacation time
Pet Sitting Services
Sometimes you want personalized, in-home care for your pet. A one-on-one residential pet sitting service would be an option, where your pet is treated like a member of the family. The pet sitter invites your pet or pets to stay in his or her home for the duration of your vacation. There may be a discount if you only need an overnight stay (for a weekend trip).
Maybe you feel more comfortable leaving your pet at doggy day care than leaving him alone all day. Maybe you need somewhere to take her when the cable guy comes by. Some caregivers will even pick up or drop off your pet for day care services.
Pet visits to your home are another option. The pet sitter can come to your home once or several times a day depending upon your typical schedule. This will allow your pet to keep it's normal routine, remain safe and comfortable and still receive exercise and personal care.
Leashrly Life provides all these services, plus pet exercise and dog obedience training. Check out the website at http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
Sometimes you want personalized, in-home care for your pet. A one-on-one residential pet sitting service would be an option, where your pet is treated like a member of the family. The pet sitter invites your pet or pets to stay in his or her home for the duration of your vacation. There may be a discount if you only need an overnight stay (for a weekend trip).
Maybe you feel more comfortable leaving your pet at doggy day care than leaving him alone all day. Maybe you need somewhere to take her when the cable guy comes by. Some caregivers will even pick up or drop off your pet for day care services.
Pet visits to your home are another option. The pet sitter can come to your home once or several times a day depending upon your typical schedule. This will allow your pet to keep it's normal routine, remain safe and comfortable and still receive exercise and personal care.
Leashrly Life provides all these services, plus pet exercise and dog obedience training. Check out the website at http://www.leashrlylife.com/.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Customized Dog Training
Your dog's training should be based on its individual personality, past and present behavior, aptitude for learning, breed characteristics, social development, and most importantly your family's goals. Not each dog can fit into a singular "method" of training and therefore it is important to find a trainer that has the ability to modify your dog's training based on your dog and your goals. Your dog's training should be designed to teach your dog useful obedience commands, good manners, and acceptable behavior patterns. Your dog's training would not be complete without you, the owner, learning how to properly handle and effectively communicate with your dog.
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