As a dog lover, you already know how amazing canines can be. Did you know that there are “special powers” some dogs have that defy explanation but have been helpful to humans for centuries?
For example, dogs (and cats) have been known to sense when a woman is pregnant. Experts are not sure whether it’s the hormone changes, emotional changes, or changes in routine, but animals seem to be able to detect pregnancy before a traditional pregnancy test! The animal behavior seems to fall into either a pattern of extreme affection and protectiveness, or uncharacteristic aloofness and territory marking. (Source: Pregnancy-Info.net)
Also, seizure-alert dogs are dogs that are able to notify someone with epilepsy or a seizure disorder that a seizure is imminent. Again, the exact reason dogs are able to sense the seizure before it happens is somewhat of mystery- whether it’s behavioral changes or something that they can smell. Dogs will bark, whine, lick, or paw their epileptic-prone owners before an event. Unlike seeing-eye dogs, the behavior cannot be trained, and is not breed-specific. (Source: National Geographic)
Dogs can also detect several types of cancer. With training, they can detect cancer in the breath of lung, breast, colon, bladder, ovarian and skin cancer patients. Researchers in Japan are working with an 8-year-old black lab named Marine to research the use of special dogs to provide non-invasive ways of detecting cancer. Marine is accurate 93% of the time in distinguishing between cancerous and benign colorectal polyps. (Sources: National Geographic and Global Animal)
The most important sense that dogs have is probably their sense of humor. Whether or not dogs can actually understand humor in the intellectual sense, some breeds are more apparently playful than others. Setters, spaniels, retrievers, and poodles tend to be more playful. Scientists liken playful canine behavior to the socialization of a young child, in that behavior that gains positive attention tends to be repeated. However, it’s hard to believe that your dog doesn’t know what he’s doing when he jumps out at you and startles you, or when she presents your underwear to your houseguests. (Source: Modern Dog)
Your dog may be more than just a common house pet. For all you know, he may be able to prevent disease, protect the unborn, and keep you in stitches. He may just be… Super Dog!!!
Showing posts with label dog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog. Show all posts
Thursday, March 3, 2011
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
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.
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