Start the New Year Off Right: Spay or Neuter Your Dog!

Etana the Rhodesian Ridgeback became an international sensation after she delivered a litter of 17 puppies. Etana and her pups are an adorable family, but there is no doubt that taking care of 17 puppies and three full grown dogs is a full time job, according to her owner. While life seems to be going smoothly for the canine octomom (her puppies are finding good new homes), 17 puppies is a lot of work, a lot of food, and a lot of messes to clean! And when your dog’s litter is unexpected, that breed is not selling, or you simply can’t find homes for them, it can be a huge burden. Spaying or neutering your pet is the best option.

Every year between 5 and 8 million animals are euthanized because they cannot find homes. One solution has been for shelters and animal organizations to offer low cost spay and neuter clinics to prevent pet overpopulation. Pets, of course, aren’t really the problem. The problem is those poor puppies that are born and then unwanted.

Neutering, though, is also good for your dog’s health. It can decrease the risk of illness in the reproductive organs for both male and female dogs. Typically, a neutered or spayed dog lives longer and more healthily than those who are not. Most vets perform the procedure at 8 weeks or older (and over two pounds, depending on breed). Early neutering is important; the procedure is easier if a dog has not had a litter and if she is younger.

You can visit the ASPCA to find out more about low cost options for spaying or neutering or ask at your local animal shelter. You can often find organizations that offer free or cheap procedures or which offer vouchers. Money doesn’t have to be an obstacle – and you’ll certainly save money by not having to feed a bunch of pups!

Giving Dogs a Better Holiday -- and Life

The holiday season puts most of us in the mood to give: we shop for presents for our family and friends; we give out Christmas cards; we donate to a local food pantry or Toys for Tots. There is someone else you should put on your Christmas shopping list: local dogs. Donating to an animal shelter is a great way to help less fortunate dogs. Of course, you can donate anytime, but while you’re in the holiday mood, consider gifting your local shelter with one or more of the following:

Money. Green is always good. Monetary donations allow shelters to get the supplies they need. Unsurprisingly, and unfortunately, most shelters are underfunded and donations are always appreciated – and almost always tax deductible. You can also check out Purina’s Pets for People site to see how you can help homeless dogs and cats.

Time. Time can be as valuable as money. Call your shelter and ask if they need volunteers. Maybe you could exercise some of the dogs, clean up, or feed the animals. Maybe you can just sit and pay some good quality attention to some of the animals. That makes a huge difference in their quality of life and their adoptability. Even (especially!) the unglamorous jobs of cleaning up help overworked staff tremendously. No task you will perform will go unappreciated.

If you have room in your home, you can also provide a foster home for an animal. This requires time and commitment, so make sure you’re ready. If not, visiting the shelter once a week or for a few hours when you can is excellent.

Supplies. Dog and cat bowls, old towels, placemats, leashes, collars, cat and dog beds, laundry detergent (for all those towels!), newspaper, cat litter, grooming items, and other items take up big chunks of a shelter’s budget. Call and ask what they need. If you have items you’re not using or want to pick some up at your local pet store next time there’s a sale, your shelter will love to have them. For items like towels and newspapers, please call first to see if they are needed. Some shelters may have partnerships with recycling centers or the like and have a ton of newspaper.

Dog and cat food. Needless to say, this is a huge expense for shelters. Call and ask what brands they use (some may be particular about this for nutritional reasons) and pick up a bag or two for them. Watch out for sales.

Toys. Dogs in shelters need toys, even more so than dogs at home. They need entertainment and stimulation, so squeak toys, balls, and other toys are always good. They wear quickly, so shelters are always in short supply. Again, ask what type of toys they prefer and pick some up next time you go shopping.

You don’t have to make a huge donation of thousands of dollars or buy three tons of dog food to make a difference. Establishing a relationship with your local pet shelter is even better. Giving your time, dropping off a bag or two of food, stopping by to play with an older dog, bringing some laundry soap, or taking a minute to think of them when you’re buying your own dog supplies is both cost-effective and beneficial for the animals.

Doggie Treats for the Holidays

There is an old proverb which says, “If a dog’s prayers were answered, bones would rain down from the sky.” You may not be able to make it rain bones, and let’s face it, if you could, would you really want to? But you can make some of your dog’s dreams come true by providing him with some yummy, healthy treats to munch on for the holidays. These are perfect for your own pooch as well as any dog owner on your Christmas list.

A lot of the dog treats on the market are full of additives and processed until anything resembling natural products is forced out of them. Your dog deserves some healthy treats, and that’s what Coco Therapy Coconut Chips offer. You might be thinking to yourself, “Do dogs like coconut?” You can be assured that when your pup sniffs these, it will be love at first bite. Raw, dehydrated coconut chips have a great taste and texture, plus they are still packed with all the nutrients that coconut contains. It may be a surprise but coconut oil works wonders for dogs and is a great source of fiber. Your dog will like the nutty flavor, and remember, treats are excellent ways to train puppies.

You can also make your own dog treats, which can be a fun holiday project. There are endless recipes online. For one of our favorites (and a recipe you can find online in several places), you’ll need:

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups white flour
1/2 cup peanut butter (all-natural or organic)
1 cup water
2 tablespoons oil

Preheat your oven to 350 F. Mix the oil, peanut butter, and water. To this mixture, add flour, one cup at a time, to form the dough. Knead this into a firm ball that measures about ¼ inch thickness. Cut this into three or four pieces and put them on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes.

These make great stocking stuffers for your pet to enjoy on Christmas morning with the family.

Does Your Dog Need a Coat?

Does your pet need a coat now that winter has blown in with full force? Maybe yes, maybe no. The answer is a definite “no” if you have a larger, hairier breed. You may be tempted to put a bold red coat on your handsome black and white husky, for instance, but resist the temptation. If, on the other hand, you have a smaller, thin-coated or hairless dog, such as a Chihuahua, a coat may be just what your dog needs to make those winter walks a little more comfortable. Let’s see what the experts say about it.

Dr. Jesse Web of the Southeast Alaska Animal Medical Center in Juneau says, “Just because we feel cold, it doesn’t mean our dogs do.” Vets agree that dogs barely feel the cold when it is above 32 degrees. Even with Juneau’s average January weather of 20 degrees, most dogs are fine. “Maybe if the dog is coming from a very warm climate like Florida, we might recommend it wear a coat for a few weeks to acclimate. But most dogs, even if they just arrived in Alaska, are pretty much oblivious to the cold.”

Many breeds, like huskies, have “adjustable” fur. In the summer, it fluffs up to help keep hot air flowing away from their skin. In the winter, it pulls in tight to keep heat in. A coat on a Newfoundland or husky can interfere with their ability to do this and cause overheating.

Chihuahuas and other small toy dogs may benefit from a jacket or coat because they lack this layer of insulating fur. In this case, it may be essential that you dress your pooch up before a walk in the winter. If that’s the case, make sure you get a coat that fits correctly – snug but not tight – and that there are no buttons or other ornamentation that your dog can chew off. Also make sure your dog is comfortable wearing it.

If your dog has plenty of fur to make it through even the roughest winter, you can still glam up his look with cool collars, harnesses, and leashes. This is a great way to express his personality without interfering with his natural ability to regulate temperature.

Should You Feed Your Dog Table Scraps?

By now, we’ve cleaned up after the big Thanksgiving dinner; we’ve made headway on the leftovers. The holiday eating season has begun. With all the food that is around during this time of year, it makes one wonder if dogs love or hate the holidays. Smelling turkey roasting all day will tempt even the most disciplined dogs. And it may tempt their owners to. Why not give your pup a piece of turkey to enjoy with the family? Should you feed your dog table scraps? After all, if it’s good enough for you….

The general consensus is no. Sorry! It is better for your dog if you keep his diet the same throughout the holidays and not supplement with table food. One reason why is that people food is not always good dog food. Fat trimmings, for instance, can cause pancreatitis; a nice juicy drumstick can obstruct your dog’s airway or cause a laceration in the digestive system. Carbohydrate-rich foods, like yeasty bread, are difficult for your dog to digest and can cause bloating and discomfort. A grape or a raisin that your dog eats (maybe in with some stuffing) can damage the kidneys. Dogs don’t have the same enzymes that humans do so they cannot break down and digest the same foods.

A piece of cooked turkey with all the fat trimmed off will not hurt your dog. But it is important that if you give your dog a piece, that you take away some of his dry food in order to compensate. Many people over feed their dogs. A small piece of turkey is fine – but don’t fill up a bowl for him and then give him his regular food. If you must, give your pet a piece of cooked meat without fat with his meal, making sure it accounts for no more than ten percent of his food.

It is so tempting to give our dogs treats as we give ourselves treats over the holidays. But just like the average American gains weight through the Thanksgiving-Christmas season, a dog can pack on the pounds, too, which can impact his health. Get him a nice chew toy instead!

Hitting the Road with Your Dog

The holiday season is coming, and for many of us, that means going to visit family and friends. If your dog is your best road trip pal, it is worth taking some precautions to keep him safe and sound. Often, dogs are not restrained in the car; they can cause accidents (or rather they can cause their owners to cause accidents), become missiles that can injure other people, or get injured themselves. What can you do to help make your trip safer for everyone?

• Crates or kennels. Wire crates help you keep your dog in one space. These are effective – and they can be used as beds when you get to your destination. If you have a small car, though, and a large dog, you may have a tight fit. If you put a crate in the back of a truck, make sure to secure it so it stays in place.

• Carriers fit into the seat and buckle in. This gives your pet his own space, a sense of safety, and security in case of an accident. You can also get a carrier that is similar to a child’s booster seat that allows your dog to look around and see what’s going on while still being tethered and safe.

• Harnesses are a great tool as well. These look very much like a harness with leash. The leash portion hooks into the seatbelt. Your dog has a little more freedom to move but is still secure.

• Wire or mesh barriers. These keep your dog from hopping over the seats. They do not restrain your pet like a carrier or harness will, so they can still get injured in an accident.

Remember to take lots of breaks for your dog to run and relieve himself. Dogs thrive on consistency, so even if you’re not at home, give him a sense of routine. Having his kennel, favorite toys, and a regular mealtime will help. Happy travels!

Forget the Doggie Bag -- This Restaurant is for the Dogs

“It's all about the dogs,” says Lily's Kitchen owner Henrietta Morrison. Perhaps the first restaurant for dogs, Lily's Kitchen features such tempting canine cuisine as turkey and chicken casserole or slow cooked lamp hotpot. Sounds good, doesn't it? The London restaurant was opened to spread the word about the company's superb organic food products, and to raise money for charity. The food includes such ingredients as marigold petals for detoxification and celery seed for joints and digestion. Is the doggie diner a success?

Thirty pups showed up the grand opening, and they were treated to a comfortable atmosphere – and various sized tables to accommodate different breeds. Dogs receive their meals – and belly rub – for free, while their humans are encouraged to make a donation. For a particularly dogged day, your pet can visit a holistic vet on-site and get an acupressure treatment. It's sounding even better now, isn't?

You won't find many restaurants (or any!) in the US that allow dogs other than service dogs, but there are certainly shops in which people can, and are encouraged, to bring their pets, including PetSmart and other pet centric stores. London has a much stricter attitude on dogs – they should not be seen or heard. The Freedom to Roam Campaign, of which Lily's Kitchen is a part, is designed to encourage more pet-friendly shops in the UK.

Lily's Kitchen will only remain open for about six weeks, but Ms. Morrison and friends hope that their restaurant generates more acceptance of dogs in public.

Dog Park Etiquette

Dogs need socialization just as much as their owners. Even the most pampered pooch is a pack animal at heart. He needs to be around other dogs in a safe setting in order to be happy and well-adjusted. If a dog is properly socialized, it makes him much less likely to become aggressive or hyperactive. One of the best places to do this is a dog park. But before you go and let your dog run free, it is a good idea to learn some dog park etiquette. Here are some tips to make sure your visit is fun and safe for everyone.

• Make sure your dog is vaccinated. This is just dangerous. Not only do you want to protect your dog from disease, you also want to prevent him from making other dogs sick. Many parks prohibit puppies that are too young to have had their full course of vaccines, so make sure you check, and make sure you are up-to-date.
• Clean up after your dog. This is perhaps the biggest dog park faux pas you can make. It is rude, it is dirty, and it is the worst way to go about making friends at the park.
• Keep your kids out of the park. This is for dogs!
• If your dog digs, make sure to fill the holes back in to prevent injuries and keep the park looking nice.
• Don’t bring your dog if she is in heat.
• Watch your dog’s behavior. You want to make sure that he isn’t forming a loose pack with other dogs. This can be a potentially dangerous situation for other dogs and even their owners. They are pack animals, but you do not want an aggressive pack to form.
• Make sure your dog isn’t being a bully. You wouldn’t let your child hurt other kids on the playground, would you? Don’t let your dog do it either.
• Have updated pet ID tags on your dog’s collar.
• Don’t force your dog to go. Again, watch his behavior. Does he like it? If not, he doesn’t have to go. He may get enough socialization on walks when he sees other dogs. Like people, not all dogs are social.
• This last one is completely optional, but we suggest dressing up and hitting the town in some great outerwear now that it is getting cooler! Why not socialize and look great?

Does Bo Walk Like the President?

Until now, Bo was the least controversial member of the Obama family. The adorable Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy pup, and according to top dog expert, Cesar Millan, he is in charge of the White House. The Dog Whisperer bases his remarks on a recent photo of President Obama walking Bo – or more accurately, Bo doing his sled dog impression while Mr. President tries to rein him in from behind. According to Millan, it is never a good idea to let your dog walk you. When the dog leads, it reinforces his image of himself as the alpha dog, which can lead to dominance and discipline problems. Is this the case? Is Bo walking all over the President?

The “Dr. Phil for Dogs” says, “Americans who allow their dogs to walk them is one of my pet peeves. If your dog doesn't learn how to follow, you'll never have a disciplined pet.” Bo’s trainer, Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz, begs to differ. The well-respected dog trainer says Millan’s approach is “old-fashioned.” Sylvia-Stasiewicz says that while Bo can walk at a heel, it is not always necessary for him to do so. She says that while it is true that you need to be the leader, you needn’t bully or pressure your dog to command loyalty.

So, should your dog always follow behind? It is the general consensus of trainers, including Ms. Sylvia-Stasiewicz, that you should be in control of your dog at all times. He doesn’t need to be in a perfect heel, but nor should he be pulling you where he wants to go. Puppies will do this; it’s perfectly natural. Many experts recommend that when your dog begins pulling in one direction, you immediately begin walking in the other. You can practice this in the backyard, and eventually, your dog will learn that he needs to let you lead.

Having the right equipment is essential, but even more important is remaining consistent in your training and rewarding your dog for jobs well done.

Trick or Treat: Tips for Dressing Your Dog for Halloween

Halloween is a time to be silly (or scary, of course) and have fun. If you don’t want to leave your best furry friend out of the fun, don’t worry. There is now a wide variety of fun costumes for your pet, allowing you to dress your dog as anything from a dapper little sailor to a buzzing bumblebee. Here are some tips that will help you do this safely and to ensure that both human and canine have a spooky and terrific time on Halloween.

•When choosing the costume, make sure you pick one that is made for dogs. Some people try to adjust a child’s costume but this doesn’t accommodate four legs and a tail. It will also be quite uncomfortable for your pet.
•Choose your costume early and then let your dog wear it from time to time. This allows him to become familiar with and comfortable in the costume. It will also, hopefully, decrease his interest in “exploring” all the new features.
•Make sure your pup is warm enough but not too warm in his costume.
•Dress up right before you go trick-or-treating or right before you go into a party.
•Don’t make your dog dress up. If he doesn’t want to, forcing him will not be fun for either of you. If he won’t wear a costume, try wrapping an orange and black bandana around his collar or get a glow-in-the-dark leash. A leash with LED lights is a good idea anyway for safety reasons.
•Likewise, listen to your dog. If he can’t endure hours in a costume, make your appearance at a party, trick-or-treat a few houses, or snap your picture, and then take off his costume. Other dogs, however, will love dressing up. Just pay attention to your pooch.
•Don’t tempt your dog with ornamentation. If it can be chewed off, it will be. Make sure there is nothing your dog could swallow.
•Make sure you have your pet ID tags.
•Have fun! Remember to praise your dog often, give him a canine treat or two, and keep him away from the candy!

It’s a Dog’s Life – But Is it an Optimistic One?

Do you see your glass as half full or half empty? We may consider ourselves to be more optimistic or pessimistic, but we don’t typically think of our canine friends as having such a philosophical bent. But they do, according to research conducted at the University of Bristol. Dogs don’t care if their glasses are half full – but an optimistic or pessimistic attitude may determine how they respond to stressors, such as being left alone.

The British researchers studied separation anxiety in a sample of 24 dogs. Each dog was treated to 20 minutes of playtime with a researcher in an isolated room. They were then placed into a room by themselves for five minutes. Some dogs behaved well, while others engaged in behaviors such as barking, scratching at the door, or jumping. This is thought to be a clue as to their optimistic or pessimistic personalities.

To study this further, the researchers turned to food. They put a bowl containing food in a certain spot in the room. They put a bowl with no food in another area. They then put the bowls in different locations between the “positive and negative positions.”

Researcher Dr. Mike Mendl says, “Dogs that ran fast to these ambiguous locations as if expecting the positive food reward were classed as making relatively ‘optimistic’ decisions. Interesting, these dogs tended to be the ones who also showed least anxiety-like behavior when left alone for a short time.”
So what if you have a pessimistic dog? Studies have shown that many dogs are given up because of separation anxiety behaviors, such as barking, chewing, whining, scratching, and more. Samantha Gaines, deputy head of the Companion Animal Department at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, says that the study “suggests that at least some of these dogs may have underlying negative emotional states, and owners are encouraged to seek treatment to enhance the welfare of their dogs and minimize the need to relinquish their pet.”

Treatment for separation anxiety can be as simple as making sure to exercise your dog and give him attention when you are home. Many people advocate crate training, as well, to give your dog a sense of security. You can find great tips online or from your vet – but the important thing is not to ignore anxiety behaviors. Not only do they make you less likely to enjoy having a dog, it makes his glass seem even less full.

Do You Follow Your Dog on Twitter?

Can your dog tell everyone that he’s taken a walk, gone to the dog park, eaten a meal of kibble, and is now relaxing on his doggie bed? In under 140 characters? He can now! Mattel has introduced Puppy Tweets, a fun gadget for tech-savvy dogs. Ok, your dog doesn’t have to be tech-savvy, and he doesn’t need to fit his Tweets into 140 characters or less. Mattel takes care of all of that for him because, after all, “tweets are the new barks.”

So what is Puppy Tweets? Do you have to continually update your Tweets to clue your followers in on what the pup is up to? Not at all; in fact, your pet actually sends the tweets with the Puppy Tweets tag, which affixes to your dog’s collar (also included are USB dongle and battery – and yes, you can get them to suit your dog’s fashion senses. They’re available in pink and blue). Every time your pet makes a move or barks, the Tweets tag sends a wireless signal to your computer, which results in a Twitter feed for you.

There are over 500 phrases pre-programmed into Puppy Tweets. If your dog is barking, for instance, his tweet may read, ““I bark because I miss you. There I said it. Now hurry home.” Don’t be surprised if he asks you to pick up some Milk Bones – or a fabulous Christian Audigier hoodie - on your way home.

If you love Twitter, you can have a little fun and connect with your pet while you’re away from home.

Exercise is for the Dogs – and You

A well-known statistic in our country is that two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese. We might not know, though, that about forty to fifty percent of all dogs are. This is largely due to our good intentions: we hate to hear our pets whimper or whine and we hate to think we’re starving them. After all, we can grab a snack from the fridge, why shouldn’t they get one too? The problem is, though, that appetites expand and weight creeps up. That’s for both dog and owner! A new exercise program developed by Mars Petcare is designed to get you and your couch pet-tato up and moving.

The Power of Pets program will launch in five US cities this year: Portland, Oregon, Washington, D.C., Nashville, Tennessee, Chicago, Illinois, and Brooklyn, New York and will include pet-friendly health and exercise education and programming. In conjunction with YMCA, the Power of Pets will help pets and owners shed a few pounds and create a happier life. Debra Fair, VP of corporate affairs says
“Mars Petcare . . . has long been a leader in researching the meaningful physical, psychological and social benefits that pets bring to individuals and communities. The Power of Pets program is the perfect way for us to share this research and really bring these benefits to life. Pets make us healthier and happier so we believe it’s our responsibility to make the world a better place for pets.”
More than half of pet owners would rather exercise with their furry buddies than alone. This program will allow them to do just that in owner-dog yoga classes, obstacle events, Frisbee tosses, and walking challenges. But you don’t need a YMCA class to get fit with your pet. Talking a brisk walk outside, jogging, swimming, hiking, playing fetch or Frisbee in the backyard can give both of your some much-needed activity.

Don’t let excuses stop you. Turn off the TV for a half hour and play. Put on a great raincoat, a winter parka, or some boots (for your dog, of course), and step out into the puddles. It will make you both more healthy and happy.

What Dog Breed is Right for Your Family?

Choosing the right pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family: the best choice ensures both human and canine are safe and content with their living situation. While there are many factors to consider, one of the first questions prospective pet owners ask themselves is, “What kind of dog do I want?” The American Kennel Club recently issued a list of the most popular dog breeds for families in the country. Should you be paying attention to this?
Yes and no. Of course it is great to research different dog breeds before you make your decision. For instance, you may want a shorter haired or “hypoallergenic” breed to accommodate for family members with allergies. You may want a dog that is very physical and active or one that is content with rambling, leisurely walks. Knowing about a breed’s characteristics can help you get an idea of what you may want, but it doesn’t ensure you get the perfect pet.
Let’s say you know that golden retrievers have a reputation of being very friendly, smart, and quick to take up obedience training – and they are the fourth most popular breed, according to the AKC. You may think this is perfect for your family. But if you have a busy lifestyle, you may soon find that your loveable retriever is a bustling ball of hyperactivity. This particular dog, while popular, may not be right for your home.
On the other hand, you are unlikely to find breeds like the pit bull on any AKC list, but these can make the best pets. Pit bulls can be gentle and patient with children, calm in the home and on walks, and sociable with people and other animals. If you have ever seen a great, well-trained pit bull with a child, you will find the terms “attack breed” or “viscous breed” patently absurd. While it is true that the breed has traditionally been trained to fight, that does not mean each pit bull is a fighter, especially when lovingly trained.
There is no one single perfect breed, but there are pets that will be perfect for you. It is important not to let reputations make your decision for you: a particular golden retriever may have a terrible disposition and be the last animal you’d want around your child, while a Rottweiler could be the sweetest companion you could ask for your little one. Making assumptions based on the breed isn’t always helpful, and it may cause you to miss out on the perfect pet. The best way to choose a dog is to in person, based on personality and disposition, not breeding and pedigree.

Coconut Oil for Your Dog

If you love summer, chances are the scent of coconuts puts you in mind of warm sand, cool water, and hot days. But the versatile coconut is far more useful than we give it credit for – besides smelling wonderful in sun lotions, coconut has a host of benefits, including being a healthy alternative to vegetable oils when cooking. And your dog can enjoy some of them as well.
Coconut oil is not one of the more commonly used oils for cooking or eating, but it should be! It is a great source of dietary fiber, lauric acid (which is also found in breast milk), amino acids, antioxidants, and healthy fatty acids. The lauric acid helps build a healthy immune system, similar to how breast milk helps babies develop protection from viruses and bacteria. Other benefits of coconut oil include:
•Boosting metabolism.
•Speeding healing time (as when applied to an insect bite or sting, cut, or wound topically).
•Increasing energy levels, even in sedentary dogs.
•Aiding in weight loss for overweight pets.
•Improving digestion.
•Reducing allergies.
•Enhancing the appearance and health of the coat and skin and clears up eczema, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin.
•Reducing bad breath.
•Regulating insulin and thyroid activity.
•Helping alleviate discomfort associated with arthritis or ligament problems.
One other benefit that should be mentioned is that your dog (or cat) will love the taste. Coconut offers a nutty flavor that your dog will love. As an alternative to dog treats with artificial ingredients, consider a product like Coco Therapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. This is unrefined, non-bleached, cold-pressed oil that contains no hydrogenated or trans fats or genetically-modified organisms (GMO).
You will want to give your pet one teaspoon for every ten pounds of his weight. So, a 25 pound dog would receive 2.5 teaspoons. Begin by using a quarter of the recommended dosage: that 25 pound dog would get just over half a teaspoon. You can add this to his food or you can put the oil in your palm and let your pet lick it off. As your pet becomes used to the oil, gradually increase the dosage until he is getting the full recommendation. Do your dog a giant favor by trying coconut oil – you’ll both see a difference.

Adopting Military Working Dogs

Sometimes our heroes walk on four legs instead of two. Dogs have become a critical component of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; with their keen sense of smell, these dogs can sniff out traces of bombs, explosives, or drugs. They are often sent on patrol ahead of troops so they detect roadside explosives, or IEDs, which are the leading cause of deaths to soldiers in Afghanistan. While very useful to the military, these pooches don’t get a retirement package and VA benefits. After returning from service, many of these admirable, brave dogs are left homeless. Adopting a retired military dog can be a very rewarding experience.

Because of recent changes in law, members of the general public are able to adopt these dogs without paying a fee (though they may have to pay transfer fees if the dog is currently overseas). Breeds that the military typically employs (and deploys) as working dogs include German shepherds, Dutch shepherds, and Belgian malinois. These are big dogs, known for their aggressive temperament, but also for their intense loyalty. Their intimidation factor is a big reason for their use in military work: they create a “strong psychological deterrent” for those who would approach or threaten a soldier.

But do you want a dog that is used because of its size and aggressive nature to be in a family situation with you? Especially when these dogs can suffer from PTSD just like human vets? Each dog that is no longer needed for service (he is referred to as “excess”) has to be declared “suitable” for adoption. This includes rigorous testing, including a test in which the dog is placed in a training situation both with and without a muzzle with a decoy. If he doesn’t bite or attack, and if he passes other tests, he is deemed suitable.

Even so, the Department of Defense does caution that these dogs may not be a good fit for homes with children under age 8 or small pets. The military monitors active working dogs for signs of stress, fear, or undue aggression and is studying canine PTSD. Many dogs do not have negative reactions to battlefield stresses, including explosives. They are trained as soldiers in the field, but as pets in their quarters. While they are trained to take down full-grown men on the job, they enjoy positive, loving attention as much as any dog during their off-hours.

Military handlers get priority when adopting the 300+ retired military working dogs, followed by law enforcement agencies, followed by the general public. Just as the dog is screened, so are prospective adoptive families. Every effort is made to ensure a good fit. Is it a good fit for you? Only you can decide, but it is an avenue to consider when you are looking for a new addition to your family.

The Dog Days of Summer

What does your dog do all day while you’re at work? What if you have a business or trip that will keep you out all day? Dog owners all over the country worry about their pooches at home, all alone. Are they bored, lonely? Is the walk at the end of the day enough exercise? Are they missing out on important socialization? Are they chewing on your new leather shoes? Maybe dog day camps would be perfect for your pet.

While there are plenty of day kennel or dog “day care” services, Totally Dog Day Camp offers a completely different type of experience. Just like summer camp allows your child to run, jump, swim, do activities with friends, and get a break from home, so too does Totally Dog allow your dog to be a dog while you’re at work or away for the day. Elena Sweet, a dog trainer and paramedic, founded this camp and says, “I wanted a place where owners that are busy could have the peace of mind that their dogs are getting exercise and getting cared for during the day.”
And dogs are indeed cared for on the five acre spread that Sweet runs, complete with a dog playground and a bone-shaped pool. Owners don’t even have to worry about transportation – Totally Dogs runs a Doggy Bus that will pick up and deliver your pooch. As many as 25 dogs hitch a ride on the bus, eagerly hopping on and looking forward to a day of fun.

More of these dog day camps are popping up around the country. Camp Bow Wow, which provides both overnight and day camps, for instance, offers canine campers indoor and outdoor playgrounds, spacious cabins with cots, bedtime treats, and certified camp counselors. You can even watch your pooch from your computer or phone with the Live Camper Cams, and your dog will receive any special attention he requires, such as extra naps, extra treats, or medications. If you have more than one dog, they can share the same cabin.

Is there a dog day camp in your area? You pet may love to spend a day with his peers!

You, Your Dog, and the Open Road

AAA, the American Automobile Association, recently revealed their top picks for dog owners. The Honda Element and Toyota Venza were rated as being the best for those of us who chauffeur pooches , based on the ease of animal ingress and egress. But what about the safety of the animals? Sure, they may be able to get in and out of the car with little trouble, but are they safe while in it? A new study from AAA finds that not only are the dogs at potential risk, so are their owners, other drivers, and even pedestrians.

Here are some findings from the AAA study:

• 80 percent of the study participants drove with their dogs.
• 31 percent admitted that their dogs distracted them while they were driving.
• 55 percent pet their dogs while driving.
• 21 percent let their dog sit on the lap.
• Seven percent fed their animals, while five percent actually played with their pets while driving.

Looking away from the road for only two seconds increases the odds of an accident; can you watch the road vigilantly and play with your dog? It's been proven you can't even talk on a handless phone without being distracted from the road. Playing and engaging with an animal is far more distracting. This is exactly what happened to writer, Stephan King, who got caught in his own horror story when he was struck by a van. The driver had been trying to control an unrestrained dog.

And it's potentially very dangerous for everyone in your path. Only 17 percent of those who responded to AAA's survey said they used any sort of restraint system for their dogs. This is important, of course, to keep the dog from being injured in an accident. But it is also important to keep other people from becoming injured. Should a 30 mph accident occur – regardless of whether the driver was distracted by the dog or not – a 50 pound dog will fly through the air and hit either the windshield or a passenger of the car with 2400 pounds of force. Dogs also become very scared during an accident and could attack emergency personnel or run away.

Jennifer Huebner-Davidson, AAA's Traffic Safety Programs Manager, says, “We'd like to see dogs buckled up in the backseat, just like children. The word really hasn't gotten out yet that it's important. They are very much a part of our family, and we need to protect them, but also everyone else who is in the vehicle.”

We agree completely. Check out our line of pet travel and safety items for your next road trip.

Skipping the Pet Stores

Adding a new dog to the family is a great idea if you’re ready for the care and commitment – and fun and love – that comes with a great pet. Whether you’re buying your first family dog or another to add to the mix, we hope that you’ll skip the pet store and head to the shelter. Adopt, don’t buy, your next dog. And we’re using “dog” purposely. Most people want cute, adorable puppies, but older dogs make wonderful pets, and you may be lucky enough to get one who is past the chewing, jumping, peeing in the house stage, and is ready to relax with the family. But pup or dog, here is why shelters are great places to find your new best friend:

• Many people think that shelter dogs are dangerous strays who were roaming the streets looking for people to bite before they were taken to the shelter. But dogs come to the shelter for any number of reasons. Maybe his elderly owner couldn’t care for him anymore; maybe an owner was moving for a new job and couldn’t take his beloved pet; maybe a dog owner moved in with someone who was allergic; maybe an energetic dog was too much for someone to handle. None of these reasons involve the dog being “bad,” or violent or unmanageable.
• Some people don’t want mutts. This is sad. Some of the best dogs are mixed-breeds. But if that’s your prejudice, consider that forty percent of dogs in shelters are purebred dogs. That’s right.
• Where do you think some pet stores get their dogs? Yup, the pound. Skip the middle man and help a dog out.
• Your new pet will have all of his vaccinations and will be spayed or neutered before you take him home. Your adoption fee covers this, and the fee is certainly less than you would pay in a pet store.
• We can’t speak for all people who work at animal shelters, but we’ve seen those that walk the dogs, play with them, talk to them, and even bring them home on occasion. They interact with the animals, which helps socialize the dogs. Do pet stores do this?
• You’re getting a pet, and you’re saving a dog. Adopting a pet is something you can feel good about. We all wonder how we can impact the world; you can definitely impact a dog’s life by choosing to go to a shelter.

As with any pet you’re taking into your home, you need to make sure that the dog is comfortable with you and you are comfortable with him. Take time to visit, walk him, play with him. You will find that there are a lot of lovable, kind, gentle, dogs waiting for you.

Pup Psychology

Victoria Stilwell is a world renowned dog trainer and expert. Her show on Animal Planet, It’s Me or the Dog, focuses on helping dog owners create a home where both man and his best friend are happy, healthy, and safe. This can involve helping the owner train his dog to modify behavior – and helping train the owner to provide better care, such as by taking more frequent walks or by providing more healthful food.

On a recent show, she made an interesting point: people run into problems with their dogs when they begin treating them like people. We love our dogs; they are parts of our families, but she is right. They are not people. Thank God! They’re dogs, they’re wonderful – but we’re the ones training them, not vice versa.

To some dog owners, it may seem almost cruel not to treat their dogs like people. But you need to remember that dogs are dogs. They have thought processes and natural instincts that are very much different than ours. One example of this is the pack mentality. They have historically lived in groups, and this behavior is ingrained in them. They seek out the strongest member of the pack and follow his lead. You need to be the alpha dog in order to create a safe and healthy home. And it also creates a secure and happy dog. He likes having structure and rules to follow.

Another thing to be aware of is that dogs do not have emotions like we do. This is hard for many people to accept because your dog loves you! Right? Right. But he shows it in nonhuman ways. We tend to think of dogs leaning on us, putting their paws on us, etc., as signs of affection. In fact, they are more often signs of dominance. If your dog loves you, he feels comfortable and confident giving you space. This doesn’t mean he doesn’t love to curl up in bed with you – but remember that he probably likes this mostly because of the warmth.

The website, Dog Breeder Info, brings up an important point. We offer dogs comfort in human ways. If they see something that scares them, for instance, our first instinct is to reach out and comfort them with a touch. According to this site, this actually reinforces the fear. Next time they encounter whatever has made him scared, we comfort him. This is our nature. This is what we would do with a child, and this is what would help a child overcome his fear.

But in dogs, it is seen as weakness from their human. And when there is weakness from their human, there is indeed something to fear. Instead, simply allowing your dog to process the fear and work it out in his own mind is far more effective. If your dog starts at a clap of thunder, for instance, you go on about your business. Don’t look at him, even if you think he’s scared. Just be nonchalant. Your dog will look to you, the pack leader, to see if he should be afraid. You’re not concerned? He’s not concerned. The fear is not reinforced.

These are just a few ways in which we can see how our dogs think and act differently than we do. We can create a better home for our dogs and ourselves when we understand a little pup psychology.

Keeping Your Dog as Healthy as You Can

Since pets are part of the family, it only makes sense that we want them to be as healthy – and happy – as possible. Our dogs can’t tell us what hurts, so as with small children, we have to pick up on their clues and just have a general understanding of their health. Here are some tips to help you do that and to make sure your pal is able to walk with you, go on adventures, or just sit with you in the evenings.

• Play, exercise, play. Not only can play and exercise help keep your dog’s weight under control and his heart strong, it helps stimulate his brain. He’ll be eager to learn, which will keep him a puppy at heart. It also increases his quality of life, which is always worthwhile.
• Spay or neuter your pet. Your dog will have fewer health problems (cancers and illnesses of the reproductive organs, for instance), and you won’t have to deal with an unexpected litter of puppies. It will also decrease the likelihood that your pet will want to roam around, which in itself increases his safety.
• Feed him healthy and nutritious food for energy and weight control. Overweight dogs don’t live as long, so make sure you’re feeding your dog a balanced diet. Your vet can help recommend foods appropriate for your dog’s breed and age. Also, if you are using treats to train your dog, remember to make them healthy ones. Air popped popcorn is a good, low-cal choice.
• Make friends with your vet. Go once a year for a checkup, especially if you have a “senior” dog. They can often spot problems while they are relatively easy to resolve. Also, be on the lookout for symptoms that can signal a problem. For instance, watch for changes in appetite or energy level.
• Keep up to date on his vaccinations. This keeps him safe, as well as those around him.
• Don’t forget the teeth! Dogs don’t have to have doggie breath, and yours doesn’t have to have teeth or gum problems either. You can brush, use a rinse, or give him dental treats.
• Attention. Dogs need love and attention, just as people do. Don’t forget to pet your dog, give him praise, and slip him a treat now and then to let him know he’s appreciated. Living longer should also mean living better, and the best way to do this is to make sure he’s happy.

Helping Train a Great Walker

Dog needs walks; it is one of the most essential aspects of owning a dog, and it can be one of the most enjoyable. Taking an afternoon stroll with your best friend on a nice day? What could be better? That’s if he walks with you nicely, doesn’t pull on his leash, try to veer off and chase cats, dogs, pedestrians, or cars, or sniff and paw at every interesting scent he comes across. Here are some tips for making sure you both look forward to your walks.

Before you even move out the door, make sure that your dog is sitting calmly. Don’t put the leash on until he is calm, otherwise every time he sees that leash, he will jump and make your life a bit more stressful. When he’s calm, put the leash on. Open the door and go out first. You go out first because you are the leader of your pack. Dogs will try to assert their dominance, not because they want to take over the house, but because it is their instinct. You have to be the leader, so make sure he lets you out first. If he goes out first, bring him back in and try again.

Pulling is one of the biggest problems when it comes to walking dogs, and if you have a large breed, you will probably get much more of a workout than your pooch. If you have a puller, try this: put your dog on his leash and start walking. When he starts to pull, firmly grasp the leash and start walking in the opposite direction. Chances are he’ll catch up and start to do it again. You do the same thing, changing direction abruptly. The point is to let him know that he cannot pull, and that you are in charge and decide where to go. Keep doing this consistently and work with him. He’ll pick it up very quickly. Make sure to reward him when he walks well with treats and lots of praise.

Keep your dog’s leash at the same length. Dogs thrive on consistency; when your dog is learning to walk well on a leash, he needs the length to be the same. A retractable leash teaches him that he can walk wherever he wants. You’ll have a much harder time teaching him to stay with you. Keep the leash slack and don’t put tension on it. If he pulls and it goes taut, reverse directions quickly.

It is important to be patient and use positive reinforcement often. When your dog is walking well, reward him randomly with a treat and praise. This way, he won’t expect at any specific time and walking well will become a habit. When you praise your dog, “Good dog,” is nice, but not really clear for your dog. Is it nice that he stuck his tongue out? Is it nice that he shook his head or scratched his belly? He doesn’t know, so you need to tell him. Reinforce with “Walk,” when he is doing well. Say it in an encouraging and positive way. Name it and reward it.

Most importantly, be consistent and keep practicing. Your dog will get it, and you will be amazed at how much more pleasant walks are.

Finding a Dog Kennel

While there are more pet-friendly establishments and more people are taking their dogs on vacation with them, there are times when your pet just has to stay behind. If this is the case, and you don’t have a friend or relative available to dog-sit, then you’ll need to find a good kennel. For some people, this decision is as agonizing as which daycare to spend their child to. Here are some tips for finding great dog care while you’re away.

• First, ask your other dog-owning friends where they have boarded their pets. This is an invaluable, and location-specific, way to glean information. If, for instance, someone used a kennel and their dog acted like a maniac for a week after, that’s a good indication that you will want to try elsewhere. Dogs should be well-behaved after a stay – assuming they’ve had adequate play time, exercise, and attention.
• Check out the facility before you book it. Make sure there is a play yard, whether indoor or outdoor, that has sufficient space for your dog to run. Also, ask if they have one-on-one time with each dog. Look around and see if you can see how many dogs there are and how many staff members around. They should allow you to see the kennel area, and if they don’t, move on.
• Ask questions: who will take care of my dog? What activities will they do? How much of the time is my pet in a crate or kennel? If my dog is sick or injured, where do you take him? Is there a vet on-call or do you have access to an animal hospital? Ask anything that comes to mind. Not only will you get some answers, but you’ll be able to tell a lot about the kennel from the willingness of the staff member to talk with you and answer anything you ask.
• Do they offer a meet and greet? See if you can set up a pre-stay meeting for your dog, yourself, and the kennel owner or caretaker. During this time, you can allow your dog to get used to the place, as well as share any special instructions. And again, ask questions!
• Check their prices, and make sure you have an understanding about how they charge. For instance, if you return at 2 in the afternoon, do you get charged for a full day? Can you pick up your dog early and get a refund for the extra? What if you’re running late? Can you extend the stay easily without extra charges?
• Trust your feeling of a place. If you walk in and feel uneasy, or if your dog appears to feel uneasy (more than just being in a new place), trust this. It may not be the most scientific method of choosing a kennel, but if your dog is going to be on-edge for days, then you’ll want to try a different kennel.

This is a lot of work! But once you find a good kennel, you should be able to keep going back. If you want, try an overnight or weekend stay before a big trip to give your dog some time to get used to the place. And then, you should both have a great vacation.

Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Dog

Many people are of the mind that because dogs are animals, they do not need shoes. It’s silly – why would you do that to a dog? But really, many dogs have sensitive feet, injuries, irritations to salt and other road chemicals, or other conditions that make boots or shoes necessary. If your dog is one of these, don’t worry. It is easy to find the right pair of boots, and it is good to know that you are doing the right thing for your dog.

The first step is to measure your dog’s feet. Easier said than done, right? It can be difficult if you have an energetic (or antsy) dog. Measure from the tip of the nails to the base of the paw. Then, when you are ready to buy your boots, find the right size on the size chart that should be on the package. For instance, if your dog’s paw measured 1.5 inches, he would be an XS in most boots.

Next is choosing the boots. You can be footwear that is more dressy in nature, but for winter or for dogs with sensitive or injured paws, you need more utilitarian boots. And there is no shortage of brands from which to choose. To make sure that you get the right boots for your dog, keep the following in mind:

• The fit. Are the boots going to be snug without being tight? How do they stay on the dog’s paws? Are they stretchy?
• Are they easy to take on and off?
• Do they have traction? Boots without it will not be of much use on slippery sidewalks.
• Are they waterproof? Breathable? High enough to protect your dog’s legs? These are all points to consider because the point of dog boots is to keep your dog comfortable and happy.

If you have never bought dog boots before, it is best to go to a pet supply store and have your dog try some on to see how they fit. Let him walk around in them to make sure they are comfortable and they won’t fall off.

When you find a pair, let your dog practice in them in the house. Put them on for a few minutes at a time. Your dog will probably respond like a baby who wears shoes for the first time – there is a learning curve here! But give him some time, and he should adjust to them and be ready for his next cold weather walk.

If you can’t get him to wear boots, don’t force it. Some dogs just will not. You can try a protective wax before you go outside. Happy walking.

Carbon Pawprint

Dog owners are bound to get riled up at a report by New Zealand authors Robert and Brenda Vale: the report said that a single dog is worse for the environment than an SUV. We all know that sports utility vehicles tend to be gas-guzzling foes of the environment (whose sales declined dramatically in the last few years and is undergoing a hybrid transformation). Is your doggie’s carbon pawprint impacting the environment? Is taking pouch on a walk worse than driving aimlessly in an SUV?

It is, according to the Vales. They say that the carbon footprint (the total greenhouse emissions produced by a being) of dogs is about twice what is emitted by SUVs. Their book, Time to Eat the Dog, the Real Guide to Sustainable Living, compares the footprint of pets to those of electronics, which we typically blame our environmental woes on.

So, time to get rid of your best friend? The one who always loves you and cheers you up when you have a bad day? The one who always wants to go for a walk with you or is up for an adventure? Reha Huttin, president of France’s 30 Million Friends animal rights organization doesn’t think so. “Pets are anti-depressants, they help us cope with stress, they are good for the elderly. Everyone should work out their own environmental impact. I should be allowed to say that I walk instead of using my car and that I don’t eat meat, so why shouldn’t I be allowed to have a little cat [or dog] to alleviate my loneliness?”

The main issue is diet – and the space and resources needed to produce it. A medium-sized dog consumes about 362 pounds of meat and 209 pounds of cereal in a year. It takes 43 square miles to create 2.2 pounds of dog food cereal. That is a lot of space, but experts have pounced on the book’s premise. Wayne Pacelle, Humane Society President and CEO, says, “I think the first instinct should be to look at our own diet and not push off the global warming causes to domesticated animals.”

Others call it a gross “over-magnification” of concern, while John Buckey, managing director of carbonfootprint.com, says, “Everything has an impact on the environment but I’m surprised by the size of these numbers. Without analyzing them further I find it difficult to believe.”

Still, everyone – man or beast – has a carbon footprint. If you want to reduce your dog’s, here are some tips:

• It is said that choice or fancy cuts have a more negative impact, while cheaper foods cause less. If you feel comfortable and your dog tolerates, make a switch.
• Again, if your dog tolerates, try getting meat scraps from the butcher or saving scraps of unseasoned meat when you cook.
• Don’t flush waste. Throw it away. It can decompose naturally.
• Don’t allow your dogs to hunt wildlife. Yes, dogs are hunters, but they are also pets. They eat what you feed them; if they hunt, they are throwing nature off-balance.
• Look at your own behavior and see what you can change. Walk when you can, recycle, eat less meat. All of these can help the earth – and don’t involve placing blame on innocent pups.