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DOGS ARE THE MOST LOVING AND LOYAL AMONG THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. QUOTE: Remember And Keep In Mind, A Good Companion Is Hard To Find!!!
Enjoyable Activities with Your Dog A dog is more than just a pet. It is a friend one can always count on when things go wrong and no one seems to care. Having a dog for a pet is not just about feeding it and giving it a good home. It also takes maintenance to keep that dog strong and fit. Spending time with man’s best friend further deepens the relationship one has with a pet. It tells the dog that the owner loves being with it and by either playing or working together; it strengthens the communication, understanding and respect between man and animal. There are many ways to teach a dog discipline and learn new tricks and by teaching it through games instead of the normal routine with a little imagination thrown in, it can both be fun for the dog and the owner. One game is called follow the leader. This activity consists of a group of owners and the dogs. By placing objects such as cones or cans on the ground and making the group go around these objects, the dog will learn to follow when it is called. Further strengthening that could be by switching who the leader is and doing the entire process all over again. Another game is hide and seek. Children play this game with other children but by teaching the dog to stay in one place then have the dog search for the person when the dog’s name is called, it teaches the dog discipline and will make the dog learn to wait until being called. One can modify this game by hiding a treat in a certain area and have the dog look for it. The animal will learn to use its keen sense of smell to search for things and be rewarded for it. Waking up in the morning and taking the dog out for a jog is another good opportunity to spend time with the dog. This gives both the owner and pet a good exercise, keeping both physically active and in shape. Dogs like to play often and by changing the game with a little twist like catching the Frisbee or fetching the stick; it not only strengthens the limbs but also involves some thinking on the part of the dog to successfully catch the object. Spending quality time with ones dog through a variety of activities is fun. It gives the animal an opportunity to learn good manners making it easier to live with and make the owner enjoy how wonderful the experience can be. When your best friend gets lost: Tips in finding your dog “The dog is man’s best friend,” so the saying goes. Dogs have proven to be loving and loyal companions of people. From pit bulls to dachshunds to terriers, dogs are a part of daily life. But what happens when your pet dog gets lost? What if, one day, while you are strolling across a park quite far from home with your Labrador and your pet suddenly gets lost? Do not resort to panic, as this will not help solve the situation. The first rule when you’re going out with your pet dog is never letting it out of sight. In short, do not let your dog get lost. Sometimes there is no avoiding a situation like this. Even dogs that are properly trained will look for ways to be free to roam around. Here are some ways to find your dog if he is lost: - Check the various animal shelters in town. If your dog has not been claimed by others or picked up, leave a complete description of your dog with the animal shelter staff. Include your name and contact information. If possible, show a recent photograph of you and your dog. This is also a reason why the license for your pet should be current and updated. - Check all the pet shops and veterinarians in your vicinity. You could ask the staff or vet if somebody has reported a lost dog and if the dog shares the same characteristics of your lost dog. - Post details of your dog along with your contact information in billboards or in areas where the dog might have gotten lost. - If possible, place an ad in the local papers for your lost dog. Also check the “Lost and Found” classifieds. Check it daily. You’ll never know when somebody turns up to say that he or she found your dog. - Check in your neighborhood. Your dog could be somewhere near. Dogs usually do not stray far from their own homes. - It would be easier and faster to find the dog if it has complete identification details, such as a name tag, identifiable collar, among others. - Be sure
you have your dog’s current photo. Keep it at all times, just in case you need to show what your dog looks like. The chip contains all the information about your dog and yourself so that the information can be scanned by a vet or a local animal shelter. Taking care of your dog is like taking care of a dear friend. Show your concern to the dog, and it will return the favor. What People Need to Know About Dog Behavior As the old adage goes, “Dogs are man’s best friend.” However, there are times when people just can’t understand why their beloved dogs behave in a different manner. Hence, it is extremely important to know the underlying reasons why dogs sometimes behave differently. You can teach your dog appropriate behavior. Experts say that dog behaviors can be controlled through proper training. Dog behaviors are actually responses that are mostly triggered by environmental and social factors. Hence, to control these responses, the owner should teach his dogs the proper way to respond to such elements. Let’s explore a few of the methods: Dog Bite Statistics show that almost 5 million people in the U.S. are victims of dog bites annually. This is almost 2% of the total population in the U.S. What’s more, dog bites cases rank as second most common cause of emergencies in the hospitals. So, the question is: Why dogs bite? According to the experts, the main reasons why dogs may bite are the following: 1. Excitement When somebody plays with his or her dog, the tendency of the dog is to get excited, and because dogs don’t have hands to use when playing, they use their mouth to grasp things. When this happens, there is the tendency that the dog might accidentally hurt people without intending to do anything harmful. 2. Protection Dogs can be very possessive, so, whenever he wants to protect something that he owns, he will bite whoever threatens to take it away from him. Hence, when people get near the dog’s property, the dog’s tendency is to bite to make the person leave his property alone. 3. Pain When the dog is not feeling well, he does not understand why he is feeling that way. Therefore, when a person, even if it’s his master, touches him, he may think that it’s the person who causes the pain and so his tendency is to fight back by biting. 4. Fear Dogs are sometimes afraid just like humans. That is why when somebody startles him, the dog’s only known protection for itself is to bite back. The best thing is to avoid these situations and leave the dog alone. The problem with so many people is that they want to always play around with their dog without learning how and when the dogs should be left alone. Like humans, dogs have feelings too. When these feelings are all mixed up, their only known protection for themselves is to bite because they cannot understand the situation logically. Therefore, people should know that in order to avoid such circumstances. Dog Bite: Prevent or Deal with It Statistics show that 4.7 million people get bitten by dogs yearly. These bites range from minor nips to major attacks. Dog's are man's best friend, not his worst enemy....With this thought in mind, here are some tips to prevent being bitten by a dog. Bite Prevention: 1. Don't Approach a Strange Dog. Don't go near just any dog you find adorable, particularly when that dog is tied, fenced-in or in a car. A new or strange dog might think that you are threatening him or you are an intruder. 2. Don't Pet a Strange Dog. It is not advisable for anyone to pet strange dogs, or even his or her own dog, without letting him sniff and recognize you first. 3. Don't Turn Your Back and Run from a Dog. A dog's instinct will be to chase and catch you. So, running away is not a good option. 4. Don't Disturb a Dog. When a dog is sleeping, chewing on anything, caring for her puppies or eating, it is bad idea to shock or disturb it. Other Precautions to Prevent Dog Bites: 1. Neuter or spay your dog to reduce its tendency to roam and fight with other dogs. 2. Make it socialize to lessen its being nervous when a lot of people are around. 3. Train your dog to not chase anyone even when it's just for fun. 4. License your dog and provide for its regular care and rabies vaccinations. 5. Never let your dog roam alone. What To Do for Dog Bites: 1. Never Panic. This will only aggravate the situation. Stay calm and make sure that you make informed decisions. 2. Deal with the Wound Immediately. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. This should be done immediately. Then, contact your physician for more care and advice. 3. Tell the Animal Care and Control Agency in Your Location about the Bite. Report to the animal control personnel all the information you can supply regarding the dog. If it is a stray dog, describe the dog, where you saw him, whether you are familiar with it and also the direction which he went. Dogs during Labor Breeding dogs is an exciting experience. From the time a proper mate is found to the point that the puppies are born, it is crucial to take careful steps to make this successful. Professional breeders do not breed frequently and will only do so when a pair is found to be healthy that will ensure the birth of healthy offspring. The ideal breeder should have the pair of dogs tested for every possible disease as well as have all the information regarding the pair’s ancestors and health records on file. Should a breeder find no problem in the history of the pair, then the process can begin. Dogs normally come into heat twice a year which is every six months. Larger dogs can come into heat every eight or ten months which usually lasts about three weeks. Vaginal bleeding is a sure sign that the dog is in heat as well as swelling in the vulva. A dog's pregnancy or gestation period lasts between 60 to 67 days. Most dogs give birth after 63 days. The only way to determine the stage of the dog’s pregnancy is by keeping track of time from the day of the breeding. Keeping a record of this on file is advisable for reference purposes. Exactly three weeks after breeding, the mother must be examined to confirm the pregnancy. The dog must be given a formulated and premium brand of dog food for the duration of the pregnancy and throughout the nursing period preferably with a strong nutritional foundation. During pregnancy, the mother's food consumption will almost double compared to the pre-pregnancy level so increased feeding must be given to ensure that there is enough for both the mother and the puppies. Behavioral changes are to be expected during this time. The dog will demand far more affection or may experience a few days of vomiting. Later on, the expectant mother will search for a secure place to deliver the puppies. Ensure that a proper place is ready when the time comes. An ideal place for an expecting mother is a box. Depending on the size of the dog, it must be spacious enough for the dog to move around and must have layers of newspaper inside it that will absorb birthing fluids. This should also have low sides for the mother to look outside and for the breeder to easily check if assistance is needed to make it easy to remove soiled papers without interrupting the mother and the newborn puppies. Follow these steps and you should be able to count on a happy birthing process! The Naming Game If “fashionistas” are obsessed with brand names, some dog lovers are hooked on dog breeds. This is because purebred dogs are expensive and belong to the higher level of this particular species. Generally, dog breeds were incorporated to give distinctive characteristics to certain classifications, thus, resulting in a substantial number of varieties. However, people who breed dogs often find it hard to detect the specific characteristic of the resulting species. There are times that offspring appear to be different from their “parents.” In dog breeding, experts contend that the offspring should have the same characteristics as their parents, both physical attributes and behavior. For example, a breeding pair of Retrievers should produce the black puppies because purebred Retrievers have black coats. However, there are instances that retrievers produce puppies that have yellow coats. Hence, cases like this are not considered by the known Kennel clubs. What happens next is that these yellow retrievers are sometimes “euthanized” by dog breeders based on the notion that they want to curb the probable reoccurrence of such species. This particular issue has long been debated by many dog experts and scientists because of the fact that there are certain instances wherein genetic consequences may intervene. In addition, studies show that dog breeds, like the human race, have no specific scientific origins and that their breeds cannot even be identified and proven even by DNA. So, the chances of getting a purebred dog are not that common. However, because of the existence of dog breeds, Kennel clubs only consider pure dog breeds on their competitions. Today, there are about 160 dog breeds being recognized by the club, but most people can only recognize a dozen or two. In fact, even those who are experts in dog breeding may still confuse a certain breed as a cross between two dog breeds. Hence, dog breeds should not be considered as a basis on whether or not a certain dog will bite. Most people have this thinking that there are dog breeds that will not bite. People should keep in mind that dog biting is based on behavior, in which certain environmental and social variables trigger the behavior. Hence, experts contend that there is no breed of dog that will attack somebody without any reason at all. This means that 99.9% of all dogs will not attack anyone as long as there are no viable reasons that will trigger the attack. The bottom line is that dog breeds may still vary, depending on their genetic make-up. Hence, the foundation of classifying dogs according to their physical attributes and behavior may be affected by different factors. It isn’t any wonder why the issues about purebreds are endless! Preventing your dog from catching diseases Like any other pet, dogs, if not properly cared for and maintained, can get diseases. Here are some parasites that cause dog diseases. - Heartworm. Mosquito bites cause heartworm to exist in a dog and will reside in your pet’s heart and nearby blood vessels. A dog infected by heartworms looks dull and may even have a chronic cough. If possible, ask your veterinarian if your dog could be given a heartworm medication when it is the season of mosquitoes. - Hookworm. Hookworms can be given by the mother dog to a puppy during the nursing period or even before birth. Hookworms cause dog anemia and appetite loss. - Roundworm. The transmittal of roundworms is very much like how hookworms get transmitted in a dog. An infected dog usually has a potbelly. Roundworms cause pneumonia, diarrhea, dehydration, stunted growth, and vomiting. - Tapeworm.
A dog gets tapeworms if it swallows fleas that are larvae-laden. Much of the symptoms that are obvious rarely show, but in
the dog’s feces, you could see deposits of a rice-like appearance. - Fleas. Fleas, the commonest among external parasites, cause the dog to continuously scratch various parts of the body. This results to fur loss. Ask your veterinarian on a good flea-control program, since fleas could become resistant to some products over time. - Lice. Lice can infect less common compared with fleas. Plus, they can be controlled easier. - Ticks. Ticks can pose more serious problems than fleas because diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, or Lyme disease, can be contracted with ticks. Tweezers can be used to remove ticks one by one. If you do not know how to remove ticks properly and carefully, ask your vet first. If you do know how, ticks should be placed in a can with soap and water. Some ways of treating dog diseases that your vet might use: - Pills - Liquid medicine - Eye drops and ointment - Ear drops and ointment With proper care and prevention, your pet dog will be generally free and safe from various diseases. If you notice something’s wrong with your dog or he is acting strangly, immediately consult with your vet. TIPS FOR BUYING DOG FOOD It is not enough for dogs to have a full stomach after every meal. Besides a non-sedentary lifestyle, pets need proper nutrition in order to be healthy, happy and their coats soft and glossy. The cost of dog food and its brand is only important if dogs can read or pay for his meal. The easiest and best way to find out which food is best for man's best friend is to observe how their response is to the chow they take in. The following are tips that one should remember in feeding dog any kibbles, nibbles or whatever kinds of treats. • Chocolate is lethal to dogs. Specifically, the dark chocolate kind. The major components methylxanthine alkaloids and theobromine in regular chocolate is digested & excreted by humans in as little as 3 hours but the same compounds when ingested by dogs stays inside them for 18 hours. This has been proven to be fatal. Symptoms of chocolate dog poisoning include vomiting, excessive urination, hyperactivity, diarrhea, followed by seizure, coma, and death. • Read the label. Dogs should have a diet rich in meat protein. When purchasing canned foods, look for chicken, turkey meat, pork or other animal by products as these keep the dog's coat smooth and healthy. Dogs prefer foods which contain high vegetable protein levels because these are easily digestible and are a great source of energy. • Don’t give a dog a bone! Contrary to the popular nursery song, feeding bones to dogs is not a good idea. Small soft bones gnawed and eaten by dogs feel like splinters inside their throat causing them to choke. Remember, dogs have short digestive tracts. They also have no saliva amylase, an enzyme that is used to pre-digest starch. • Dog food supplements are unnecessary… ...only if one is sure that their dog receives a regular intake of complete and balanced food nutrients. Good sources of carbohydrates include rice, corn, oatmeal, wheat. However, a highly specialized nutrition is only necessary if dogs do not get enough physical activity or are currently undergoing a stressful routine change. • Raw fish and eggs are a no-no. Consistent consumption of raw eggs make a dog’s skin breakout. In canine terms - since eggs diminish the biotin available in their body – dermatitis and hair loss are its usual effects. Raw fish meanwhile results in thiamine-deficiency in a dog. Its effects usually are loss of appetite, abnormal posture, weakness and in some cases death. Feed your dog a healthy diet and he will return the favor with a beautiful coat and many years of companionship! Grooming Man’s Best friend Proper grooming for your dog does not only have aesthetic purposes but also adds to your pet’s holistic growth – physical and psychological. Since dog hair can interlace due to dirt and grime in the coat forming mats and tangles, they would need to be groomed to keep proper hygiene. Plus grooming generates more bonding time with your pet, creating a stronger relationship. It is best to train your dog to be groomed at an early age. But, an untrained dog can still be taught to accept all the attention. Train your pet to get used to his body parts being handled and brushed. You need not go to a professional groomer, but if you don’t have the time or the interest to groom your dog, be sure to select a groomer that handles the animals gently. Things to Remember in Grooming your Dog Make a daily examination of your pet’s body parts. Look out for bumps, hot spots, inflammation, irritation, vegetative matter, and parasites like fleas and ticks in his coat. Get rid of fleas by using a fine-toothed comb while ticks can be tweezed off. Ears should be checked – droop ears are inclined to infection which can lead to permanent hearing loss. Examine your companion’s pads – dirt, grime, pebbles, chemicals can get caught that can infect his paws. Brushing doesn’t only remove mats, it also takes away dead hair, thus eliminating animal odor. Tangles can also be very painful for your dog that may lead to skin inflammation. Grooming during shedding encourages growth of new coat, so brush especially after physical exercise. Nails should be trimmed every month, especially if your dog has a hard time walking. Dental hygiene is maintained by using dog toothpaste and toothbrush with soft bristles twice a week. A damp cotton cloth is used to remove mucus from your dog’s eyes and a coarse rag is appropriate in cleaning your pet’s face. When bathing your pet, make sure that you brush away dead hairs first to clear all the mats in his coat. Soak your pet in warm water. Apply a pet shampoo in small amounts. Target areas are the eyes, ears, rectum, toes and under the chin. Avoid getting soapy water in his eyes and ears. You also have an option to apply coat conditioner after bathing. Different breeds require varying bath frequency; consult the local pet grooming shop if you’re not sure how many times you should bath your dog. It is recommended that a dog owner has his own home grooming kit. A good kit includes a grooming brush, clippers for dog toenails, combs with varying teeth (fine, medium coarse), dog shampoo, coat conditioner, and a coarse rag. Having Healthy Pups: A Few Tips on Keeping Your Dog Healthy The responsibility of a new pet is sometimes overwhelming. One of your new duties as a dog owner is to take care of your pet's health. Here are two pointers for you to follow in taking care of your pet. - The Veterinarian Is our Friend Part of your duty as a dog owner is to know when to call for the vet. Don't take a "wait and see" attitude when it comes to your pet's health. Sometimes, that approach is fine but most often professional help is needed to treat your dog's sickness. Depending on the dog's condition, there are many ways a veterinarian may help. There are several instances when it is essential that you call your veterinarian: a) Always call your vet when your dog has been in an accident. If your regular veterinarian is not available, look for the closest emergency vet clinic. b) Always call your vet when you suspect your dog has eaten something that may be poisonous or something inedible. c) Call your vet immediately when your pet is in obvious distress. d) Sudden weight gain or weight loss should be a warning sign for you to take your dog to the vet. e) If your dog is coughing, vomiting or having seizure, call the vet immediately. - An Ounce of Prevention Is Better Than A Pound Of Cure Of course, going to the vet should be the last recourse. Preventing your dog from being hurt or getting sick is your primary responsibility. Remember, that good food and exercise insures a long life for your pet. A balanced diet and a regimen of exercise helps prevent sickness and strengthens your pet. Monitor what your pets eat. Clean your dog's cage regularly to get rid of any disease-causing bacteria. Check your dog's water supply. Make sure it's clean and healthy for your pet. Keep your dog on a leash. Running in front of a car is not very good for your dog's health and heaven knows where your pet may end up if you just let it wander around. Give your dog a regular bath. Fleas and ticks can give your dog extreme discomfort and are often carriers of disease. Of course, keeping your dog in tip-top shape goes beyond these pointers. It's always advisable to ask a veterinarian for additional health tips and as your experience with your pet grows, you'll think up of a couple more rules that are special to your beloved hound. Just remember that when your pet's health is in question, it's always better to be safe! Dog Heroes: All Time Heroes Everyday, people witness countless acts of heroism, big and small. Heroes, too, come in different shapes and sizes, forms and breeds, man and animals alike. Dolphins, seals, horses, cats and whales are just a few from the animal kingdom that display tremendous protective instincts that save man from all sorts of danger. But nothing beats “the man’s best friend”. After displays of great courage and bravery during World War I, dogs have seen in a different light. They were thrust into the limelight unknowingly. Since then, dogs have been called all time heroes – recognized, rescued, trained and cared for by man. All kinds of awards were given to dogs to celebrate their heroism and saving prowess such as the “Dog Hero of the Year Award.” The dogs carry on a long line of lifesavers. They have shown unthinkable acts of saving adults and children alike in grave danger like fire, drowning, road and home accidents, intruders and robbers, and even in a huge tragedy like 9/11. The images of heroic dogs finding possible survivors or even lost bodies under rubble and debris in ground zero crushed the hearts of many Americans. These canine heroes come from all breeds, backgrounds and locations. Take note, they are not pedigreed. These dog heroes are not at all dominated by big dogs, though they are often used for the purpose of national security. Their breeds vary from the famous German Shepherd, Saint Bernard and Collies (remember Lassie?) to Poodle, Labrador, American Pit Bull Terrier, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Doberman, Pinscher, English Springer Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Shetland, Sheepdog, Terrier and Weimaraner. During the Vietnam War, 4,000 dogs were recruited to assist and protect U.S. troops, thus preventing an estimate of 10,000 plus American casualties. At that time, they were considered “surplus armaments”. They were either euthanized or left to their fates in Vietnam. Now, books and documentaries preserved the memories of countless canines that aided in the protection of mankind. Today, dog heroes play an even more critical role in the fight against terrorism. The ability of dogs to detect bombs is already proven since World War I. A German shepherd’s nose has 250 billion smelling cells to give it the ability to detect a target odor amidst all other odors. Breeds do not guarantee a “dog hero status.” Like men, dogs need a rare set of attributes to stand out: intelligence, being calm even in the presence of loud noise, focus amidst distractions and a compulsive desire to play with a toy. After all, the game is to find the scent and get the toy. “Basic Principles in a Dog Lovers Club” There are lots of dog lovers clubs in the US that offer a lot more for both the dog lovers and their dogs. Here are some of them. The American Kennel Club has a dog lovers section called “For the Love of the Purebred Dog”. This article is more than a canine purebred section. It is dedicated to living at home with dogs. This dog club gives informative and educational materials pertaining to pet care, training, nutrition and a lot more. It also includes funny stories, art, pet history and the more popular Companion Animal Recovery method. There are also more popular sites like the dog breeds and events page. The American Mixed Breed Obedience Registration or (AMBOR) on the other hand was created in 1983 with the objective of taking into accounts the perseverance and accolades in obedience contests of mix breed dogs and handlers. This dog lovers club also gives support and inspiration to dog handlers. Important Information for Members: 1. Mixed-breeds Unlimited full membership is open to handlers and owners of mixed-breed dogs as long as the pet is spayed and nails are cut. There should be front and side photo shots of the dog that will be included in the application. This is the ticket to all the obedience and agility programs, automatic tabulation in the agility and obedience nationwide ranking system. This also includes a given eligibility for the annual awards. This achievement will be given honor in AMBOR highlights (AMBOR’S newsletter) and on the website. The member will be eligible to any agility and obedience national competition in the future. Dogs with assigned numbers are marked as purebred and should be enlisted as a purebred Also, dogs that are listed as mixed-breeds that are given a number based on the owner’s application causes its membership to be changed to a status of a purebred. 2. Purebreds Purebred dogs can be listed with AMBOR with a rule that entry is limited to the AMBOR-supported agility program. All dogs that are purebred, listed with AMBOR and exhibits AMBOR-supported programs on agility will have competition points monitored and there will be an automatic issuance of certificates. Dogs that are purebred and listed with AMBOR are not qualified to be a part of the agility program and obedience scoring systems. They will also not be included in the website on highlights and not qualified for any mixed-breeds national competition in the future. Handlers that register to the AMBOR-supported trials on agility should put their AMBOR number on the form at the club’s entrance so that competition points will be monitored. What a Dog REALLY Needs Loyal, friendly, protective, affectionate, fun. Those qualities have earned dogs a special place in the lives and hearts of humans. Most dogs now are owned as pets mainly because they are THE ideal pets. A dog will always try to keep you pleased and smiling. It will never hold grudges against you, and will never judge you for your looks or mistakes. It isn't called man's best friend for nothing. Dogs have a basic need for shelter, good nutrition, exercise and companionship. A dog will rely on its owner for all of these needs, in addition to training and protection. These are all basic needs, but a dog also needs veterinary care. If a person has a dog for a pet, it is a good idea to ensure that it is seen by a vet regularly. Dogs are prone to a wide array of illnesses and diseases and it is best that he gets vaccinated against these diseases. Some of the most fatal diseases that a dog can contract are listed below along with the proper vaccination to prevent them: 1. Canine Adenovirus - or Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH). ICH is an extremely contagious disease that is only dogs transmitted to other canine animals. This disease is transmitted in urine and eye or nasal secretions of animals with this disease and affects the liver, kidneys and lining of the blood vessels. Dogs of all ages are prone to acquire this disease, although puppies and younger dogs are at a higher risk. 2. Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) - It is transmitted through contact with infected dogs and affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory and central nervous systems. This disease is often fatal to puppies and adult dogs. 3. Para Influenza - Also known as tracheobronchitis, it is a contagious infection of dogs seriously affecting young puppies' upper respiratory system. Its symptoms are gagging and coughing. Dogs in stressful and crowded conditions are at the highest risk for this disease. 4. Parvovirus - This is an extremely contagious viral disease that affects white blood cells, the intestines, and heart. It is characterized by vomiting, severe diarrhea and fever. It is often fatal in puppies. At the highest risk for this disease are dogs in crowded places such as dog shows and kennels. 5. Rabies - Rabies can affect all warm-blooded animals that are unvaccinated against the disease, including humans. It affects the brain and is always deadly. Pets get exposed to rabies from the bites of wild animals which include bats, raccoons, foxes and skunks. The bottom line is to keep a dog disease-free. Have it vaccinated. After all, what a dog really needs is. . .good health! Five Simple Tips To Get Your Dog Ready For Dog Shows Every truly avid dog owner wishes for the chance to show off his pet at the nearest dog show. It is both a way to validate your pride in owning your pet and a chance to see other beautiful dogs in action. For the first timer, however, entering the world of competitive dog shows can truly be a daunting experience. Here are five simple tips to get your dog, and yourself, ready for the limelight: 1) Know The Field - Everybody has to start somewhere and entering dog shows requires that you know what to expect. Read literature on dog shows. Go to dog shows as a spectator and see what goes on. Get a good grasp of the jargon. Knowing the difference between all-breed dog shows and specialty shows can help a lot in determining what shows to join and how to get your pet ready. 2) Know Your Dog - Knowledge of your pet is essential when getting ready for a dog show. A little effort in researching your dog's breed and health history can pay off immensely. Getting familiar with your dog's quirks, habits and abilities is also a great way to bond with them and paves the way to a successful performance in the show ring. 3) Training, Lots of Training - Training for the show, for yourself and your dog is very important. It is advisable that you have the help of a trained handler when you're starting out. Training dogs also requires conditioning them physically so that they are in tip-top shape when they participate in the show. Remember, dog shows are like beauty pageants. A well-trained dog is both pleasant to look at and be with. 4) A Visit To The Vet - Every dog needs a visit to the vet when getting ready for a dog show. Having your pet inoculated is a standard procedure to protect your dog, and other dogs, from spreading diseases during the show. A check-up on your pet's physical condition would also help greatly in assuring that your pride and joy is ready for the show. 5) Ask Questions - Learning is a continual process. Asking questions from handlers and veterinarians on how you should treat or handle your dog can open up insights on caring for it. These five simple tips are just the beginning. Like they say, experience is the best teacher, but with this advice you're well on your way to getting your dog ready for the show. Dog Supplies Buying Guide Just like a baby who needs utmost attention and care, the best supplies for your dog needs some major consideration, too. Here's how you can ensure that your pet gets the best toys, food, and other necessities. Dog Food and Treats Your dog's needs should be the emphasis when considering what food or treat to buy him. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals should be given, particularly to growing puppies. Sporting and working dog breeds need to eat something that will sustain their hyperactive lifestyle. Dogs that aren't getting any younger need low-calorie food to avoid weight gain. Don’t scrimp on the budget here no matter how compelling it might be. A healthy dog is reflected by the food he eats. Dog Leashes and Collars The size and weight of the dog should be taken into account in choosing the right dog collar. The collar's material needs attention too. Nylon is good for water-loving dogs since it is more durable and light. For a tougher look, leather collars are a lot better since they are more durable and can even be accessorized with spikes. Dog leashes come in cloth, nylon, retractable, and leather styles. Dog Toys The safety of your dog should be the top priority in looking for a dog toy. What fun could be derived from a toy if it will endanger your pet's life, right? A dog toy should be large enough so that it can't be swallowed by your pet. However, it should be small enough for your dog to be able to grip it well. The durability of the toys will need major consideration too, especially for dogs that are serious chewers. Light chewers can settle for vinyl and latex dog toys. Training Guides for Your Dog Dog whistles, dog harnesses and bitter-tasting sprays compose the wide array of dog-training guides that will keep a dog from chewing. If the chewing problem is a lot more serious, you may want to use a dog bark collar or an electric fence. It is advised that you remain consistent and humane when training your dog. There are many dog training books available that can be helpful when training your dog. Dog Health Items Tick and flea infestation control medications are available to ensure that your dog's health is secured against these pests. Brands like Advantix, Advantage and Frontline are some of the popular flea and tick drugs in the market. Your dog's dental health should never be taken for granted either. Dog toothbrushes and toothpastes, and even dog toys are now made available to support the dental health of your pet. Following these guidelines will definitely help you have a happy, healthy pet! “Dog Toys for the Brain, Teeth and Feet” Thinking of the best toys that suit your dog? Browse through the dog toys below and see what fits your pet and your budget. For dogs who love to chew: 1. Kong Jump’n Jack Prices: Kong Jump’n Jack is a dog toy and a teeth cleaner and gum exerciser at the same time. It has a very unpredictable bounce that makes it a lot more fun for the dog to play with. It has a lot more surfaces that clean dog’s teeth. Kong Jump’n Jack also has slits that are useful for the gums to be exercised. 2. Squirrel Dude (Busy Buddy) Prices: This is a unique and innovative rubber toy. It has four rubber prongs that cover the hole a bit which challenges the dog to give more effort to taste the food treats inside. The Squirrel Dude is durable and very chewable. 3. Biscuit Block (Animal Planet) $4.50 (small) This chew toy has four grabbing chambers distributed throughout the toy. Varieties of dog treats can be inserted inside to keep pets happy and busy. It has a crazy bounce brought about by its square shape with cut corners. 4. Ball Stomp’r (Launch and Throw Ball Toys) Price: This dog toy enables both young and old to have a great time playing with their dogs. The Ball Stomp’r is the first ball launcher of its kind. The ball needs to be loaded, then stomped on and it will eject to a height reaching 100 feet with the regular ball. The mini Ball Stom’r can reach up to a height of 60 feet. This toy has its own ball but tennis balls are a good substitute. This toy is tough, water proof and very dog friendly. This is not chew-proof though so it should be kept after using. The dimension of a regular-sized Ball Stomp’r is 12 inches in length that uses a tennis ball sized ball. The smaller type is 9 inches long and uses a ball with the size of 2 inches. 4. Dinosaur Egg Baby (Plush Puppies) – Intelligence Building Toy ($6.90) The Dinosaur Egg Baby has three eggs inside that give out a squeaking sound. It has a secret opening underneath to test dog’s instinct in getting hidden rewards. It is 6 inches in height, 5 inches wide and 12 inches long. Toys that exercise dogs, cleanse their teeth, rejuvenate their jumping ability and test their intelligence. A complete set of these toys would definitely make owners be much more loved by their pets. When Dog Training Really Matters Dogs can be very sociable. In fact, they sometimes get too sociable and get aggressive. That is why it is important to train your dog to control behavior. Moreover, dog training is important to avoid dog biting incidents. Statistics show that 77% of dog biting cases are mostly those that are within the family. Hence, with dog training, bad habits are removed and dogs have better control of their feelings and behavior towards environmental and social variables. However, implementing dog training is not that easy. Certain things must be employed to have positive results. The thing most needed in dog training is what experts define as “positive reinforcement.” This refers to the way people reward their dogs with treats, praises, or both whenever their dogs show positive behavior. Through positive reinforcement, dogs are able to comprehend that treats and praises will come whenever he shows good behavior. For example, when the owner gives his dog some treats for obediently obeying his commands, the dog will think that obeying commands when told equals treats. But this does not necessarily mean that when the dog did not obey the owner’s commands, punishment is needed as counter-reinforcement. This should not be the case because punishments will only make the matter worst. What will happen is that your dog will be confused and it will begin to doubt your feelings. The next thing that you must remember when training your dog is that people should avoid training their dogs into a bad habit. Actually, many people are not aware they are doing this but there are instances wherein the people’s reaction towards some behavior of the dog will inadvertently train the dog in a bad way. For example, when dogs bark, it is common especially when they do that because they see something strange or unfamiliar things. But, when dogs continue to bark, even if it includes a familiar person, that becomes a problem. In this case, most people have the inclination to yell and tell their dogs to shut up. This particular reaction of dog owners will confuse their dogs and will only make them understand that the reason why their owners are yelling is because they are also enjoying the shouting scene and that they are “barking” along with their dogs. The key point here is to avoid paying attention to the dog. In time, he will stop. That's when you should reward your dog. Boiled down, dog training is all about positive reinforcements. And, as they say, positive reinforcements reap positive results. Dog Training Tips Considered “man's best friend,” dog training professionals have been disseminating more knowledge on how to make this animal live up to that title. Here are tips that one should keep in mind in training his dog more easily. Digging Behavior Dogs, as social beings, consider digging as their outlet when they are lonely. Nutrient deficiency may also cause this digging. Also known as pica, they sometimes eat the dirt they dig to supplement their health. Spending more time with your dog and giving him a health check will keep his digging behavior at bay. Potty
Training Giving it a bit of dog food when it performs a good potty behavior will make it easier for it to remember the good thing that it did. Repeat and Repeat Considerable repetitions will give your dog ample time to grasp the command. Consistency is the name of the game. After doing enough repetitions, not helping him with the routine will test if the dog really got it. Three successful attempts in a row is a fine gauge in defining if it's just a fluke or if the dog has actually understood the drill. Direct and Correct Communicate to the dog how the drill should be. Be clear on what you want the dog to do. Just commanding the dog without correcting him if he did it wrongly is not advisable. Timing is Gold Timing means that you should consider the age of the dog when considering how to deal with him. It is best to train dogs while they are still puppies. Always remember that “old dogs can't learn new tricks” saying. Be More Stubborn Than the Dog Establishing rapport with the dog must always be in this order: you as the alpha dog (authoritative) and him as the submissive being. Show any sign of fear when he snaps back and you damage that rapport. Don't let the dog not complete the exercise. This will teach the dog to just hold out long enough for you give in to his preferences. Be A Good Actor Provide your puppy with an outlet for his chewing urges. Also, you may practice yelping loudly when your pup starts to chew on you. After yelping, fold your arms and for 10 minutes consider ignoring him. That response is the thing that happens when a pup becomes too rough on other puppies. But depending on your puppy's personality, he may react otherwise, such as biting more. In this case, use a more aggressive approach. How to Make Your Dog Obey You? Most people contend that dogs are created to obey their masters. That is why they are considered a man’s best friend. However, obedience is not an innate quality in dogs. That is why it is important to teach them how to obey commands in order for them to know in what manner they should behave. In reality, obedience training is created to impose control over dogs. These canine friends should know who the master is and who the follower is. However, the concept of training dogs how to obey may vary on styles, equipment being used, or on the principles being implemented. Nevertheless, all of these things are focused on making dogs obey their masters. The question is: How do trainers or these concepts make the dogs obey their masters? What is the reason that lies beneath the idea considering the fact that dogs are not humans who can logically understand why they have to obey? What people don’t know is that there are only two keys in order to make their dogs obey them: consistency and compassion. Consistency is extremely important in every training program. This is because as mentioned earlier, dogs are not logical thinkers. This means that they don’t know and they don’t understand why they have to obey or what does their master want from them. That is why it is important to let them know the things they should do and the things they shouldn’t do. In this way, people should be consistent on distinguishing the things that should be done and those that are not appreciated. On the other hand, compassion is needed in teaching dogs to obey because they are not like humans who will immediately understand what is wrong or right. This means that people should be a little more patient when teaching dogs to obey in order for them to gain the dog’s trust. There are instances wherein trainers get impatient after repeating one command several times. In the end, they tend to hurt the dog. In turn, the dog gets hurt and may no longer trust his trainer. The bottom line is that, dogs are not humans and they don’t behave like humans. That is why training them to obey needs more time, more patience, and more understanding from people who know better. Making your dog win in sled races So, you decided to train your dog to win in sled races. Here are some tips to do it. 1. Provide dry and clean bedding. If you want to have a winning dog, provide him first with a clean and complete house. It is your duty and responsibility that your dog must have adequate, clean bedding. 2. Give your dog a high quality diet. Give your dog the best diet that you can find. All year round, feed him with the best diet possible. This includes giving the dog some quality fat in his diet. Fat gives your dog enough energy to run. How much fat you give depends on various factors. For example, Alaskan Huskies are burning fat seemingly by just standing still! Some dogs like Malamutes and Siberians do not require fat as much. Don’t scrimp on quality. 3. Follow a schedule. Make a regular schedule for your dog to relieve himself. Stick to the schedule. Making a schedule to relieve your dog will earn you his trust. Whether the schedule is after two or four hours (or more), follow the schedule. strictly. 4. Provide shade. Give shade to your dog, especially in summer. 5. Clean your dog regularly. Clean the dog's house regularly. This is also for your dog's good health. 6. Control flies. Your dog would appreciate if you put something on him to defend him against flies. 7. Give water consistently, adding a few more buckets in summer. Like humans, your dog needs water. Give them clean water regularly. Add a few extra buckets in the summer, when the heat is too much for some dogs. When your dog is training and running all day long, you might want to give him water right after his run. If you are training your dog on a cool season, then you might probably not give him water every after run. But, if you are training in summer, be sure that you give your dog water consistently. Your dog might collapse from dehydration if you ignore his need for water. 9. Buy your dog from well known breeders. If you have no dog yet, you might want to buy a puppy from a winning breeder. Winning bloodlines enhance your dog's chances of winning. Of course, having a dog from a winning breed does not ensure outright victory in sled racing. The dog still has to be trained to win. Having a winning dog in sled races is a cooperation between your dog and his trainer - you. It entails a lot of mutual trust and care to ensure a winning dog. Essential care tips for your dog Dogs are loving pets. But caring for them is a bit of hard work. Here are some tips to consider in taking care of your dog: If you do not have a dog yet, consider the area where your dog can exercise. If you have a big yard where you could exercise or play with your dog, you might want to get a large dog such as a German Shepherd, Labrador, or Golden Retriever. If you have a smaller space, get a smaller dog like a Terrier or Dachshund. These types of dogs need little exercise compared with the larger dogs. You also need to consider your dog if there are children in your house. Some dogs like Pit bulls and Dalmatians are sometimes temperamental. It is important that you groom your dog. A regular groom is recommended. Dog’s ears should be cleaned, with the wax and dirt removed every week. Ear cleaning also helps you detect presence of ear mites or infections. The dog should be bathed weekly with warm water and dog shampoo. It is also recommended that you brush your dog at least once a week. After grooming your pet, do take it to a veterinarian to get its anti-rabies shots and over-all checkup. A diet that is balanced and nutritious is recommended for your dog. Contrary to what many people think, dogs do not just eat meat. They also need carbohydrates. A diet consisting of 50 percent of protein or meat and 50 percent of carbohydrates is the preferred diet for dogs. As implied earlier, dogs need some amount exercise. Aside from their health, dogs exercising will prevent them from retrieving and chasing, digging, and chewing on various things. Exercises depend on your dog’s sex, age, and health level. A dog likes to jog, fetch, and race-walk a lot. One warning however, start slow in exercising your dog. Unfortunately, some dogs enjoy themselves so much when they do these exercises. They do not know when to stop it. Having a dog to last you for a long time does not end with just owning one. You have to take care of it. Although that may be hard work, it will also bring you fun and enjoyment when you see that your dog is healthy and loves you. Having a pet dog of your own is a pleasurable experience. How Inspiring Dog Tales Can Be There could be no better way of inspiring people than to use some of the inspiring dog tales. In this way, people will realize how dogs are so important in a man’s life and how reliable dogs can be especially if they are well trained. In reality, dogs are marvelous canine mammals because they are endowed with remarkable senses and skills. They can perform numerous tasks when properly trained. In fact, dogs are considered to be an intelligent species. Anecdotal facts implied that dogs have a high rate of intelligence. Dog intelligence refers to the ability of the dog to do certain things that cannot be done by other animals. Dogs have the innate ability to think, learn some tricks, and the ability to solve some problems like rescuing a person who is in danger. This dog intelligence is, in fact, the main reason why people are fond of reading inspiring dog tales. They used to think that these canine mammals are only animals and are not capable of thinking what to do in case somebody is in trouble. Now that a lot of inspiring dog tales have emerged to prove the reality of a dog’s intelligence, many people now believe dogs can really be reliable enough to trust our lives to them. Take for example the guide dogs. These dogs are trained to help other people who have impairments such as visual and hearing. Learning a lot of skills to be able to take such great responsibility takes a certain amount of intelligence. Moreover, there are dogs that were able to serve their masters even up to the time that they need to rescue them from imminent danger. An example of this is the tale of the two guide dogs that rescued their masters as they were trapped inside the building of the World Trade Center Towers during the September 11 attack. This is an inspiring tale of two guide dogs that remarkably guided their masters out from the fury of the blazed trade center and were able to save their lives. Another great example is about a black and white English Pointer who had been donating blood for almost 11 years of his dog life. The donated blood is to be used on dogs that were seriously injured and need blood transfusion. These inspiring dog tales will not only touch the hearts of the most dog lovers but everybody who realizes that dogs know how to help others too. Tips in naming your puppies So, you finally deiced to get a puppy. You spent many hours talking to dog breeders and surfed the Internet countless times to find the perfect puppy for you and your family. You went from pet shop to pet shop, to dog associations, to animal societies, looking and meeting puppies until you have found the right one. Question is: Now what? Your puppy needs a name! Throughout his lifetime, you will use the dog's name over 35,000 times. So, make sure that you choose a name that you and your family will use to refer to that loving dog of yours. Here are some tips in finding the perfect name for your puppy. Remember that dogs understand brief commands. Names should therefore be easy to remember. Names with two syllables or lesser work well. Don't expect that your dog would be able to respond to you immediately when you named him "John Dewey McArthur". The name of your puppy should not sound like the rest of the commands. For example, do not call your dog "Stacy". It's too close with the command "stay". Having a name like that will only confuse the dog. Remember that you will be using the dog's name in public. Remember the joke circulating in emails when someone has a dog named "Sex" and gotten the dog owner into trouble? "Boner" might be funny for your drinking buddies, but may have a different reaction when you are in a veterinarian clinic or at a park. Ask your kids what they want to name the dog. Let them participate in name decision process. If they want to name the dog "Champ" or "Tootsie” so be it. Reserve your funky names when in front of other people. You may believe that it would be an honor for your Uncle Tom or best friend Bobby if the dog is named after them. Maybe naming your baby after them might honor them, but naming your puppy after them won't. If you decided to bring home a dog that is quite older, it would be probably better to stick with its old name. But, what if the name of the dog is "Barney", the name of your-ex whom you had a bitter breakup? Then, stick with other sounds similar to it. Once you've picked a name, see if it works out. You will know if that works. If not, then there are tons of dog names available to replace it. With these tips, naming your puppy would be fun. Choosing the right signature toys for your dog When choosing the right signature toy for your dog, you should consider several factors. Even when selecting dog toys that are made by signature and high-end labels, you should weigh in several things aside from price and manufacturers. Here are some tips on choosing the right toys for your dog. On choosing the perfect toys for your dog Toys for the dogs should be enjoyable and fun. But, at the same time, you should check whether the toys are durable and safe. What if your dog accidentally chokes because it swallowed a part of its toy? Toy safety should be of paramount concern. The safety and durability of a dog toy depends on many factors – such as the size of your dog, its activity level, as well as your and your dog’s personal preference. Ask dog-owning friends or family members for tips. Consult with your vet if needed on what toys should you buy for your dog. Be careful when choosing the toys In general, the toys that dogs find most attractive are the ones that could pose the greatest danger. Check with the store staff of the features of toys. Evaluate if some toys could be dangerous to your dog. Choosing the perfect size of the toys Do not buy dog toys that are so small that can be easily swallowed or could cause your dog to choke. Do not, on the other hand, pick toys that are way too big and heavy for your dog, as it would not enjoy the toy. Pick a toy that is just perfect for the size of your pet. Check that any part of the toy cannot fall off or break Look out for toys that may have parts that are not “dog proof.” Some of the parts a dog could chew or ingest are strings, eyes, ribbons, among others. Avoid such toys. Dog toys that are squeaky and soft are good for some dogs Some dogs that are gentler can play well with designer toys that are soft and squeaky. Some, however, like to play rough with the designer toys that they have. Ask your vet for any tips on what kind of designer toys should you buy your dog. You could also check the store staff or surf through the Internet for additional information on toys. Designer toys are fun – but you have to also look for other concerns
such as the toy’s safety for your dog. Dog Sports for Every Breed Engaging in sports is not only for humans. It is also well-loved by our best friend, the dog. Dog sports do not only make a dog's life fun, but healthy, as well. Here is a list of dog sports that you may want your dog to get involved into depending on his breed, of course. Agility This is when a dog moves through an obstacle course, i.e., contact obstacles, tunnels, jump, etc., as guided by his or her handler. What controls the dog is only its handler's voice and body language. Without a leash, obedience training is the major requirement for a dog to enjoy this sport. Speed and accuracy are the names of this game. Carting Large breeds usually participate in this dog sport. It mainly involves the dog pulling a cart filled with supplies like firewood or other farm goods, sometimes even pulling people. It is also known as dry land mushing and sulky driving and is well-known and practiced all over the world. Frisbee Dog Commonly known as disc dog, frisbee dog competition is about a dog and a human disc thrower competing in events such as a choreographed freestyle catching and distance catching. The division of events on this kind of dog sport depends on the handler's skill and experience. What makes this one of the most popular dog sports is that any kind of dog can participate. Flyball This dog sport is a relay wherein teams of dogs race against each other leaving their handlers. These teams need to surmount four hurdles that are placed 3 meters apart from each other. Then, they have to reach a box that will release a tennis ball that needs to be caught when the dog presses the pad which is spring-loaded. Then, they have to go back to their respective handlers while carrying the ball. Scootering It is a sport where one or more dogs pull an unmotorized scooter in which a human is riding. It is similar to another dog sport done in the winter known as mushing, only dog scooter involves fewer dogs and instead of a dogsled used in mushing, a scooter is used. Like sled dogs, dogs that are doing scootering wear harnesses and are hooked to the scooter using a gangline. Sheepdog Trial Also known as "dog trial", this is one of the competitive dog sports in which breeds that are into herding move sheep around a field, gates, fences or enclosures as directed by their handlers. Think of "babe" the movie about a pig. This is more popular in UK, Canada, Ireland, the USA, New Zealand, Australia and other farming nations. Healing Hounds Dogs are man's best friend. Always loyal and ever loving, this trait has made canines an integral and common part of what is fast becoming a common mode of therapy in many health care facilities. Not just dogs but animals in general have long been recognized as having a positive effect on the healing process. Dogs, especially, have a calming effect. These dogs help people cope with emotional issues, offer physical contact, invoke pleasant memories and they divert a person's focus from the problems of the day. That's why they've been used to great success as helpers for those people who are in therapy. Dogs are specially trained for their jobs of helping to take care of the sick, the elderly or the
infirm. a) Facility Therapy Dogs b) Animal-Assisted Therapy Dogs c) Therapeutic Visitation Dogs The first two types assist physical therapists by meeting the requirements for a person's recovery. They are usually found in hospitals and are permanently assigned there. The most common type of therapeutic dog, however, is the third type. Therapeutic visitation dogs are ordinary pets whose owners take to hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities. These dogs help people who are away from home due to mental or physical illness. These people are usually in a highly stressful or depressing environment and a visit from a therapy dog can always brighten their day and help them deal with their problems. Through their bright example, these dogs help the people they meet maintain a positive attitude. This positive outlook is important in good health, happiness and staying young. Pets also provide a chance for patients to touch and be touched. This gives the patients a chance to express their need for physical contact, a need that doctors have proven as a very important factor in a patient's psychological health. This is integral in helping people maintain a better mental standing on their condition. This and the ever-loving nature of dogs make them perfect cures to depression that often plagues many patients and residents of nursing homes and hospitals. It's very difficult to accurately measure how positive an effect these dogs have on patients. But all you have to do to see that they're doing their job is a happy smile on a patient's face when they're in the company of one of these amazing healing hounds. Going places with your dog Dogs do like to travel well. Adventurous by nature, they want to check out new sights and sounds. They like to meet and see new people. But this does not mean that traveling with a dog is as easy as traveling with your clutch bag. Here are some tips on how to have a worry-free travel experience with your pet dog. Hiring a pet sitter If you are traveling far away from home without your pet dog, you might want to hire a pet sitter who could take care of your dog full-time. A pet sitter could be a member of your family or a friend who could stay over in your house and watch over your dog. You could also ask your veterinarian who could recommend someone to do the
pet-sitting. Go to the kennel before taking your dog and check if animals look well-cared for and the facilities comfortable and clean. Chat with the staff to make sure that your dog will be cared for properly. Traveling with your dog Should you decide that you’re bringing the dog along in your travel, ask the vet some tips on how to best travel with a dog, including problems on the transportation method. Ask if he or she could give your dog a certificate of clean health. If you are flying via airplane, you should have a sturdy carrier for your pet. If not, the airline could ask you to buy a carrier from them. Some airlines allow your pet in the passenger compartment with you. Some put all the animals in the luggage compartment. If you are riding in a car, the air conditioning should be kept on. Do not leave your dog unattended in a car that is parked. Do not park in direct sunlight even for a brief period of time, as it could drastically raise the heat temperature inside your car that might result in dehydration, heat stroke, or worse. Foreign travel Traveling with a dog or any other pet in foreign countries can prove to be difficult. Check with your vet for some tips. You might also want to ask the local consulate of the country you are visiting what are their requirements for you to bring your pet along. Going places with your dog may be a pleasant experience. But you should remember taking a dog, or any pet with you, anywhere could be a bit difficult. Know Your Friendly Neighborhood Assistance Dogs Dogs, aside from being his best friend has also served man in so many useful and varied ways – from shepherding, to cattle rustling, to rescue, and protecting property. It doesn’t come as a surprise that they also are able to assist those who cannot get about by themselves. Assistance dogs are specially trained dogs that serve to complement, assist, and aid those that may have some sort of limitation. They have also become indispensable to some who have difficulty with mobility due to some disability. Below are a few ways dogs have truly become man’s best friend as assistance dogs. Guide Dogs: When you mention assistance dogs, this is the first function they perform that comes to mind. These types of dogs help those who have visual impairment and help them move about conveniently. They help these people cross roads, climb stairs, and find their way around a place. They are usually able to help these people manage even potentially hazardous areas. Hearing Dogs: These dogs assist those that have hearing impairment, and are specially trained to nudge their owners when they hear certain noises such as telephone rings, doorbells, and horns among others. Mobility Assist Dog: These friendly canines pull wheelchairs, and carry light equipment for their owners in their backpacks. These amazing dogs assist those who cannot move around easily to at least find convenience moving around an area. Seizure Alert/Response Dog: These dogs are trained to hit a button that contacts 911 in case of a seizure or cardiac attack. Operators are advised in advance that calls coming from this line are activated by dogs. In turn, they alert paramedics on a possible emergency situation. As with most assistance dogs, they do not leave their owner’s side and are constantly alert and observant. Psychiatric Service Dog: These dogs provide an emotional security blanket to those who may have mental illnesses and phobias. They also help autistic people stay focused. These dogs never leave their owner’s side and provide steady, reliable companionship to their owners. Combo Dogs These dogs are a hybrid combination of the above mentioned assistance dog types. They are trained to assist those with multiple disabilities or needs. Although their jobs may seem quite advanced, they do accomplish their tasks consistently. Assistance dogs serve a vital part of many people’s lives. They are not only ‘tools’ that assist a deficiency, but friends that provide companionship for the duration of their lives. Best Selling Dog Books 1.
HOW TO RAISE A PUPPY YOU CAN LIVE WITH, 4TH EDITION This puppy book starts way back with your breeder and steps you through all the processes to make sure you can raise a puppy the right way. It touches on the subjects of selecting breeders, bonding with puppies, discipline, house training, tricks and simple commands. RAW DOG FOOD: MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG This offbeat, light read received the Dog Writers of America Award for Best Book Under 100 pages for the year 2003. It is a funny, informative book on how raw diets can actually benefit dogs while being cost-efficient at the same time. This is a must-read book for those grappling with their dog’s diet. 2. CAUTIOUS
CANINE, 2ND EDITION This book is so handy it could even benefit people. Patricia McConnell walks the reader through training techniques such as counter conditioning and desensitization to deal with behavioral problems and phobias. It works with people too. 3. RALLY-O: THE STYLE OF RALLY OBEDIENCE, 3RD EDITION Rally obedience advocates an exciting and fun approach to dog obedience. It’s a surefire way for the dog and its owner to enjoy their training sessions. If one were to look for an effective, non-burdensome way to train to dogs, this should be in their shelves. ONE ON ONE - A DOG
TRAINER'S GUIDE TO PRIVATE TRAINING An intimate training guide to those new to one-on-one training sessions. It is an easily understandable, yet comprehensive guide to private training and focuses on the intricacies of the training psyche and the dog’s response to such. POSITIVE PERSPECTIVES: LOVE YOUR DOG, TRAIN YOUR DOG Almost a book about children. This groundbreaking read will change the way you view pet behavior management and pet upbringing. This comprehensive course emphasizes the emotional aspect of training and behavior modification. Also |
