Sunday, October 31, 2010

TRICK OR TREAT! Beware Halloween treats

PA is a bit weird, they don’t actually send their kids out for trick or treating on Halloween, sometimes it's a few days before or even after, but in any event you should be aware of treats that the health conscious, (which could range from the new wave Californians to old Grannies), are prone to put in your kid’s bag that we all know your kids will toss off to the side when they go through their goodies. Probably 2 % of  kids will really enjoy the healthy treat!

 The older generation would rather give your child something healthy, (you know who you are) and toss into the child's treasure trove the dreaded apple, a peach, a box of raisins, or baggie full of grapes, praying that the kids won't come back and egg their cars and houses two nights later! But these things can be extremely toxic to Fido so click here for the list of toxic foods and if you come across any,  give ‘em to  your Great Granny, the sooner she passes the sooner you’ll get that inheritance you've always heard about!

Keep in mind that sugar free treats may contain xylitol which is very toxic to your pet.
For information on xylitol click here This can be found in every day candy, gums, and throat lozenges so keep this in mind during the cold and flu season as well. (cough,cough)

For a great interactive chart on toxic chocolates and how much your dog has to eat of each per pound of body weight to be considered an emergency click here  

Just as dangerous as the food itself can be the wrapping, keep in mind that any non food item can cause an intestinal bowel obstruction.
 

Always keep 3 % hydrogen peroxide on hand in your dog's safety kit to induce vomiting should the vet or poison control suggest you do this. Directions on doing this here   keep in mind that inducing vomiting this takes a lot out of a dog and can cause stomach problems so you only want to do this if a Vet tells you to.

Happy Halloween!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Why does my dog do that?

The information below is just that, information. As always, any sudden change in behavior should be evaluated by your vet.


Scooting: Scooting or dragging the anal area on the ground can be an indication of an anal sac problem. Small dogs are more prone to this. The anal sacs, which are located at the 4 o’clock ~8 o’clock position of the anus can become full or impacted and become sore for your dog. Therefore, the dog may scoot trying to break them open.  In severe cases the sacs can become infected and blow a hole through the skin which requires vet care.   Scooting can also be a sign of anal sac problems due to worms which may make the stool too soft, so it is important to watch for that as well.


Licking: If licking the private area this can be an indication of infection in both male and female. (Bladder stones can also cause this) Unfortunately I have come across many customers who believe that the dog is just pleasuring itself! IF there is an infection present, medication will be needed from your vet. If licking on the leg this can be a sign of lick granuloma which is like a compulsion and can cause a deep infection which requires medication and behavior modification.


Head shaking: This can be a sign of an ear infection or ear mites, both of which need treatment. Ear infections may require antibiotics from your vet.  Too much head shaking can lead to an aural hematoma (filling of fluid/blood in the ear flap) so the sooner you can have it checked the better.  



Air or fly snapping: can be an indication of seizure activity. If you see odd behaviors such as this you may want to take a short video of the dog doing it to show your vet. (Pacing, whining, being more distant, or becoming clingy can also be signs of seizure activity) Such activites can last frm hours to days in duration.
 
Lip smacking: can also be an indication of seizure activity, as well as a toxin, or something stuck between the teeth. Doing a finger sweep around the teeth may yield a stuck object.


Walks while pooping:  This can be a sign of arthritis or hip dysplasia. With either, there is pain when the dog remains in one spot so walking helps to ease that pain.  

Eats rocks, grass, stones, cement, feces, etc.  This is known as pica and can be a sign of boredom (behavior),  hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, iron deficiency, or other endocrine disorders and can turn very dangerous causing vomiting, diarrhea, or lead to bowel obstruction.

Stands in corner,seems lost; Depending on the age and breed of the dog, you may be seeing the start of cognitive dysfunction. These dogs start to become confused, forget how to get out of a door, stand in corners, stand in one place and stare. Some even forget potty habits causing accidents inside the home.   

Rubs face along furniture or ground: This is a good indication of airborne allergies and can come on suddenly or over time. You may notice the dog licking the paws more frequently as well. Dogs with airborne allergies may also scratch more if there is no obvious sign of fleas.  Face rubbing can also be a sign of a tooth or gum problem.
  
Head pressing: Dogs that press their heads into items or walls may have a liver shunt or a neurological disease and should be checked out by your vet as soon as possible.

Humping items/humans/ other dogs: This is not usually due to a sexual act (unless between intact male and female) but an act of dominance, stress, or excitment (excitment:as when a dog is crated for a time and is finally let out). However be aware that if humping occurs on an item it may be more the act of scratching because of an infection in the vaginal or scrotum area.

Tail Chasing: For pups it can just be a fun quirk, if it stays with the dog into adulthood and there are no anal sac or flea problems, then it may actually be a compulsion. Dogs do suffer from compulsive anxieties. Meds and behavior modification can help. Talk to your vet and a qualified dog behaviorist or trainer to get help with this.        


Carries item in mouth while around other dogs: This can be breed inherited such as a retriever; however in a home with many dogs it can also be a sign that the dog is submissive and trying to avoid a fight. (Let’s just hope it picks up something other than your guests bra or panties!) Yawning around other dogs is also a sign of submission.


Nudging your arm or scratching you with paw: This is a simple one, because you allow it!











Tuesday, October 26, 2010

your dog may be prissy if...


random pics
 Some people go through great lengths to "humanize" their dogs. This is all in fun folks so don't bite my head off!

Your dog may be prissy if…




It has painted toenails



Has its own heated and air conditioned suite complete with four poster bed but still sleeps with you



Wears diamond studded collars



Has dyed hair



Wears tutus or other obnoxious clothing



It gets pushed around in the stroller while your kid has to walk



Dresses up as another animal or insect



Is small enough to fit in your purse



Gets groomed weekly



Wears shoes



Drinks bottled water



Drinks water from a champagne glass



Goes out to dinner with you and a date



Feet never touch the ground



Flies first class











Sunday, October 24, 2010

Your dog might be owned by  a Redneck if....










The pics are random off the web. My dad grew up in Stamping Ground Kentucky and this is the way I think generations back viewed their family dog as opposed to today's modern family .



Your dog might be a redneck if…      
                                                       
He uses your old Ford as his dog house


He wears a choke chain for his regular collar


The old tire used for your flower box doubles as the dog’s bed


Drags his dog house behind him while still attached to the chain


Uses the clothesline  as a dog anchored run



Is tied to a tree

 
He’s got a picture of dogs playing poker in his dog house


There’s a can of Schlitz by the water dish

 
He’s allowed to run free and spend the night with any female in heat


Is hooked on steroids

 
Wears a leather jacket and hat with a skull and cross bones


Is dressed as a human hot dog

 
Wears a fake spiked collar to make him look tough



Keeps the natural odor of skunk around the neck


Is dressed as another breed of dog


Lays around licking his genitals


Likes having his nose rubbed in feces


Still sports a flea collar

 
Wears antlers during the holidays

 
Lives under the porch

 
Survives on only human leftovers

 
Wears camouflage during hunting season


Is bathed once a year with the hose and Old Spice

 
His dog house is larger than the family home


He wears your kid’s diaper



Thursday, October 21, 2010

Buddy Bowl, the spill proof water bowl. Does it really work?


Baby Bentley

Baby Abby











2010, will mark 10 years since I first got a taste of living in a world among Newfoundland’s, and although it took me some time to get down all their antics, I did, and eventually all became well with the word! My hair unbelievably stayed intact on my head, my body parts remained in place, and the only thing that seemed disconnected at times was my mind!


At the time that Peter first brought baby Bentley into my life, and then shortly after baby Abby, I realized I really had no idea of the breed’s fondness for water. (I know, I know, I am the last person that should be preaching “know your breed before you bring it home!” In this house, we bring home whateva!)



I quickly became aware that with a Newfoundland, it did not matter the water source, it could be a hose, a pond, a puddle, a pool, a bucket, or a water bowl. Thankfully, by the time they came into my life my pond fish were long dead and the fish tank was sold at a yard sale!


During their first year with us, I decided that walking around the house with a shop vac attached to my back was getting old and heavy! My wood floors were loosing their sheen, slip and fall accidents were too much the norm, and I was just plain tired! Being the ever prudent shopper that I am, I searched through every dog magazine looking for the perfect bowl. I tried tall ones, short ones, long ones, flat ones, buckets with hooks, flat sided buckets, and raised dishes, but none were safe from the frolics of a Newfoundland. I came across plenty of bowls that were advertised as ‘no spill’ and I bought them believing they would solve my problem. WRONG! I still had that shop vac attached to my back!
Hey, some people have a monkey on their back, I had a shop vac!


Enter the Buddy Bowl, an odd looking contraption at the very high cost of $19.95 per bowl. (Shhh, don’t tell Peter!) It seemed a high cost for a dog bowl at the time, but I was really, really desperate. Today, nine years later, the bowl is still in tact and the same price! (So much for inflation!)
But did  it work?  Did it get the proverbial shop vac monkey off my back?

I did a test of the product where I put it on the dog's mat and flipped and tossed it, with  held breath I might add, that it would come apart and make a mess.


It is now 2013 and Baby Bentley and  Baby Abby have since passed on and there is a new Newf/Golden mix in the house creating havoc and destruction , but in a cute sort of way. I would say Brody is resembling all the physical traits of a Golden , but sure does have the Newf's love of water in him! This time I am a bit better prepared than I was back in 2000 thanks to Bentley and Abby.


 test of  the Buddy Bowl








Pros. It does work as you’ll see in the video and there is now a color choice which was not an option for me eight years ago. This bowl has held up for a long time with just a few teeth marks in it, although it is not chew proof for a determined dog. Even though the funnel part and the opening look small, it is large enough for a big dog to get its tongue into for drinking without leaving a big mess of water dripping off the neck.



Cons: I am not sure if the bowls are made any differently now, but back when I used it, I found it somewhat difficult to take apart to clean.

I give this product 4 paw’s up as it does the job it was intended for.











Friday, October 15, 2010

Separation Anxiety


random pic

 
      Separation Anxiety (SA)




Is your little fluff Muffin a maniac? Do you find feces under your footing? Do you come home to perforated paneling? Is the couch missing an arm? Is your carpet beginning to look like Swiss cheese? Chances are you have a good dog who is suffering from separation anxiety! (SA)



Does one actually have to leave their house and leave the dog alone before you see signs?
Nope!
You can be upstairs and the dog downstairs, you could be sitting on the porch drinking Martini's with a friend and the dog could be in the kitchen. Granted most destruction comes when you are away for a long period of time , but that’s only because the dog is left alone longer allowing for more destruction. Believe me; you can come home to just as big of a mess in less than one hour of alone time by your dog! So, if Martini drinking on the porch with a friend finds your kitchen with chewed up napkins, the tablecloth ripped to shreds, and the dog munching on the remote as you walk through the door, he might be suffering from separation anxiety! At this point you’ll want to make an extra pitcher of Martini's for later!



I don’t know why I never wrote about this before. Maybe because I thought the majority of people already knew about it. After all it is the 21st century. This article was due in part to a recent consultation I had with a dear friend that made me realize just how many people may not understand Separation Anxiety in dogs.



Some people actually believe that the dog does these things out of spite because they were left alone! If you think that way, you’re really giving the dog too much credit! While dogs can problem solve in some situations, the forethought on how to get even with you is nowhere on their spectrum! They  don’t lie around the house thinking of ways to make you upset. A dog always wants to please its owner. It’s how we handle situations that may seem to have them change over a period of time. More or less dogs live in the 'now'. (What is going on around them NOW)  If you think about it logically, and I’m sure you will, if dogs really could plan things ahead regarding your departure, they would not be pooping on the floor and eating your furniture, they would learn how to open that fridge door and suck down that steak you have marinating for dinner! Let’s face it, if they are really thinking and they know they will get in trouble anyway they might as well make it worth the while!



Humans are creatures of habit and dogs pick up on that very quickly. They know long before we even give it a thought that we are about to walk out the door. In this case, our actions really do speak louder than words! We lay out our clothes for the day, turn on the shower, dress, slip on our shoes, grab a cup of coffee, pick up our car keys, put on our coat, and walk out the door. To us it is simply a routine. To the dog it is sending a nervous energy shimmering down the spine like little shock waves telling him that you will soon be leaving and he will soon be alone. Even if that alone time is only 15 minutes.



My dogs actually know when a weekend has befallen us! How? Because both hubby and I are home whereas during the week, he leaves for work a few hours before I do. Well they don’t really know we call it a weekend, but when the weather turns cooler we tend to take the dogs with us if possible on shopping trips to keep them engaged with people. So when we’re both home and the weather changes, the dogs are ready to go! They run back and forth to the door with every movement we make. Heck, they even know when Peter is going grocery shopping on a Sunday morning! Okay, okay, since the little incident where Pete took all five Newfs shopping with him and he neglected to fully close the hatch in the back of the van which thus sent a pile of big black fur pouring out onto the street behind him, those outings are not so frequent, but the dogs still look forward to it!

How to handle separation Anxiety. Steps to take to desensitize the dog to your leaving

Watch your dog’s behavior when you are getting ready to leave the home. Change you own behaviors to try and desensitize the dog to your coming and going. Pick up your keys then set them down again. Put your shoes on, then take them off, grab your coat and then put it away again. All of these are signals to the dog and if you mix the signals up over time, he will never really know if you’re leaving for sure and may start to relax a bit more because this routine does not mean what it once did.



Never give any long goodbyes, in fact, ignore the dog for 15 minutes before you leave and for 15 minutes after you come home. When you give your dog long goodbyes such as, “Oh baby, mommy will be back soon, you be a good boy, mommy loves you so much! Mwaah.” as you blow the dog a kiss and walk out the door, this actually gets the dog more anxious because he is already acting nervous inside, whether you see it or not, and all that lovey, dovey talk makes him think there is something to be nervous about! He doesn't understand your words; he understands that you are rewarding him for feeling frightened. So STOP THAT!



Train, train, and train in obedience using a positive reward based training method
 on a daily basis, even if this training can only be done for ten minutes at a time.

“But Sally, my dog already knows how to sit ~stay~ & ~come when I tell him!”


I hear this lot, and it kind of tells me that maybe the person really isn't picking up the biscuit I’m putting down!



Yes, yes, your dog may know his commands, but you are not training him so that he learns them further. This is why I say to use a positive reward based method. You are training him to succeed even further which helps to boost his confidence at being alone. The more things he gets right, the more confidence he builds in himself. Do not use the standard pull and tug method of training, he already knows his commands! This type of training for a shy or anxious dog is focusing on the negative when what we want is to focus only on the positive. But if you’re bored with teaching old commands then teach him new tricks, just but be sure you allow him to succeed each time. Let him figure things out on his own as well. When a positive training method with a treat reward is used and the dog only gets this treat during training, he is more likely to do anything to get it! He may dance around or lift the paw for which you can put a command to, such as “Fido dance” or “Fido, shake!” Voila! New tricks! Take the dog’s attributes and annoying habits and turn them into a trick by putting a command to the action.


Look, it’s similar to when children get nervous about having to read aloud in a classroom. Some do not have the self-esteem to put themselves out there and make mistakes which can cause a bad or embarrassing reaction from peers or the teacher. But the more they read aloud without negative feedback, the more self esteem the get, and the more they will start reading. Simple! :)




This is a slow process to work a dog through and it does not get better overnight. Your routine has to change. You may have to step out of the house for a few minutes, then come back in and gradually increase the time you stay outside the door before coming back inside the home. Never come in the door when the dog is crying or he’ll think all he needs to do is cry and you’ll come back. Wait for that quiet moment no matter how brief it is.



Crating


Sometimes it’s in the dog’s best interest if you offer a crate while your gone. If it keeps him safe from harm then it’s worth a try. Let’s face it any non food item eaten by a dog can quickly turn into an obstruction of the bowel. However, I would borrow a crate or seek one out in a yard sale before buying one as sometimes dogs with anxiety do worse when crated. So if you decide to try the crate do it several times when you are home with the dog to gauge his reaction. Leave him in there for only brief periods and gradually build up the time you leave him in the crate. Don’t let him out if he is crying or whining because he then learns that’s all he must do to get out. Again wait for that brief pause of silence and praise and reward that. Always take off his collar when you crate him. Leaving the crate door open when you are home so the dog can come and go as he pleases is also a good idea in the beginning. Every now and then when he is not looking toss in a new toy or a treat so he learns that he finds good things in there! If the crate seems to make him more anxious then ax the whole idea.


The crate is only recommended for the short periods of time that you need to leave the dog alone. It is not intended to be his jail. So if you must work all day and the dog suffers from anxiety then you may want to find a dogie day care or a sitter/walker who can come and take the dog out for exercise. If you feel you can’t afford the above and the anxiety is a big problem, then the best bet for you and the dog may be to find another home where someone is around most of the day. It’s tough I know, but let’s be fair; this is a life we’re talking about not a Barbie doll.



Toys

Before you go out put mind stimulating toys out for the dog and interchange them so the dog doesn't get bored with them. Remember how you used to do that with your children? They thought they got new toys but they just forgot they had them because they weren't out all the time! Yeah, yeah, I know, poor parenting on my part!



Treat dispensing balls like the buster cube can be filled with only a couple of treats and the dogs daily dose of kibble can be used to keep weight issues to a minimum.
Kong wobbler  another treat ball



Kongs stuffed and frozen with cream cheese or peanut butter also keep the dog active.



The Giggle ball which makes a silly noise when rolled can keep a young pup involved.



The Talk to me treat ball records your voice and each time the dog rolls it food is dispensed and he hears your message. Again you can use the daily kibble or something like Cheerios if weight is an issue.

Gatorade bottle: Yes you read right. I have updated this blog to include a Gatorade bottle, the  big one not the small ones in a 6 pack. This is a cheap effective way to keep your dog busy and reward him for keeping busy.  Fill it with the dogs daily Kibble, toss a few long biscuits in there so the kibble does not come out too easily and let him have it. My neighbor started putting peanut butter near the inside of the  rim  to make it a bit   harder to get things out.  To see video of my pal Brody (Newf/golden mix) using his bottle click here         If you do this with more than one dog make sure none are food aggressive:)  Also try this a few times while you are home to make sure the dog does not take interest in eating the bottle.  The bigger the bottle the better!  

The makers of dog toys are starting to realize that a dog’s mind needs to be stimulated and challenged so new things are always on the market. You want to be sure that the toy you pick is nothing your dog can actually destroy. Kong and Nylabone are two well trusted names for sturdiness. Shop around online because you’ll be amazed at what new mind stimulating toys you can find.

Using Drugs


No, no, sad to say not for you, but for the dog! If it’s a severe case your vet may want to prescribe medication while you train. There is a drug called Reconcile that is used or you can talk to your vet about the use of over the counter Melatonin. The DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) collar or plug in may also be helpful. Drugs without training won’t work as they are short term and if you have not trained the dog then your problem will reappear once the drugs are stopped.

Melatonin use click here 
Assessing Canine Separation Anxiety: click here

So, start your training and then sew up those holes in the couch, re-plaster the walls, purchase cheap throw rugs to hide the holes in the carpet and buy little Muffin a dogie cookie  for a reward!


Until next time happy training!










Sunday, October 10, 2010

What’s in a registration anyway?

This is my Forrest Gump, he was a pet store puppy
with an AKC registration and although you can't see it
here, his hips were so deformed he had a hump in the
middle of his back like a camel. His markings and his
personality were beautiful:)



This is a big sound off for me, sometimes I just need that!




When I was a youngin, long, long ago, I was an extremely shy gal who never opened her mouth. (Hard to believe I know!) Even when something didn’t make sense to me, I didn’t speak up and ask questions. Well, my friends, times they are a changin’! I now find myself needing to speak out or find answers that do make sense to me. And if it doesn’t make sense I hop right on the Judge Judy train when she says, it probably isn’t true. I am not an expert in many areas, and don’t pretend to be, but I just can’t let some things go without questioning them.



With all the progress we have made in the dog field, new health alternatives such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, health insurance, recognition that the family dog is indeed a part of the family unit, and the quest for healthier diets leading to better dog foods, there is still one little question, which has lead to many other questions, that is very bothersome to me and has been for a long time.


Has our delusion to create the perfect breed of dog actually done harm to the species? Could we have loved our dogs so much that we actually harmed their genetic markers terribly in the long run? Why are there so many sick or deformed dogs with an American Kennel Club (AKC) registration? A club which once represented that one was getting the best of the best! After all you were paying the price!




To those who are in business of breeding dogs or have show dogs, or those who want quality dogs, they should want to see more than just an AKC registration. They should want to see health certificates for both parents which include hips, eyes, and heart certifications and are usually done around the age of two years old. As well one wants to see a sound health record against breed prone illnesses. They should want to see a champion background and a sound stud or bitch. This I believe was the intent when American Kennel Club first started out. There is no doubt that they wanted to see the best paw of a breed put forth, however somewhere down the line it became impossible to know what each breeder was breeding for or with, or what lengths they would go to get the best looking dog in their breed group.



Tell me, how does a pet store puppy get an AKC registration when we know that 99.9 percent of dogs found in a pet store generally come from puppy mills where inbreeding and lack of care run amuck? Why do I say only 99.9 percent? Because once long ago in my children’s youth, in a pet store on Long Island, I found a puppy that was for sale for $70.00, no papers, no certifications and one that was nothing more than your basic mutt, so I bought it! My friends and family will fondly remember this dog as Maxi, the Chow/ Lab mix with the Elizabeth Taylor eyes.



I don’t believe that the AKC title holds what it once did or what it was intentionally made to stand for when it got its start back in the 1800’s. I also believe this is the case with most breeders. I don’t believe they want to make the perfect healthy breed, but possibly the best looking breed.

I believe that the human race can be a very vain group as we know many of us over the years have been lead to believe that prettier is better, bigger is better, shinier is better, etc. Let’s face it, for many, many years the human race has had health issues because of the prospect of looking better, molding ourselves to be prettier, getting food faster, or looking to make fast money. So why should we expect dog breeding to be different?


But how do you judge reputable? Seemingly if we look at pet stores, any dog can be AKC registered with the exception of those from a litter with a limited registration. How do you know if the breeder you are seeking is truly knowledgeable and caring for the breed itself and not out to make a buck? Even if they care enormously for their breed, does that mean they did it right?


How do you feel about culling? This is done a lot among breeders. Is culling a physically healthy puppy because it does not meet a standard the right thing to do? I say not! For those of you who do not know what culling is, it is the process of removing animals because they do not fit specific criteria for a breed standard. In other words, healthy puppies are being killed simply because they don’t have the desirable traits/markings that they are supposed to according to the breed standard. How sick is that?


When I registered my litter I took seriously the statement from the AKC that I had to keep a record of where my litter went so if AKC called I would be able to tell them who bought the pup and where they were located. I honestly thought that they might call one day! What an idiot! To date I still have phone numbers and addresses of each of the people who took one of my pups. (I also call them now and then or I run into them locally and ask how the dog is doing.) Obviously AKC does not have the same interest in my litter as I do. They did not shed the tears that I did at each pup’s departure with its new family.

So if puppies in pet shops are registered AKC, and we know those pups come from puppy mills, whose minding the store at the AKC headquarters? How can they possibly keep track of all the pups out there being bred and sold?

How about the inbreeding of dogs? Some “qualified” breeders will tell you it is okay to breed father to daughter, son to mother, and brother to sister. They call it “line breeding.” But many scientists will tell you the ramifications when we do this within the human race, yet in the dog world they say it is okay because they call it ‘line breeding’ to get the best of both dogs!
What??? Sorry, but give me a break! I think people are smoking something out there they shouldn’t be!


Once you start mating parents and siblings the greater risk you take of passing a bad genetic marker. My thought is that this has been done so much over time that we are now bearing the consequences of less healthy pure bred dogs. The list of prone diseases per breed of dog continues to grow yearly and mostly among the popular breeds. As of 2009 the Labrador Retriever was the number one dog registered in the USA according to the American Kennel Club. Yet on a well known vet animal website I counted 33 possible or known diseases they could get. They ranged from something as simple as allergies to the debilitating Centronuclear Myopathy which is a genetic trait.

I do admire the whole limited registration that the AKC had put in place a number of years back as it does give the breeder the right in writing to prevent the new owner from breeding the pup they purchased and then have its litter registered with the AKC. It does not however prevent a person from breeding them and registering them with another dog club and still get paid a greater amount than one would get for a standard purebred dog without papers. Thus they can still advertise that a dog has a registration, they just might not say from what club.


Which brings me back to my quandary, what’s in a registration title?

Are we so hung up on titles and prestige that we are willing to risk unsound puppies? By unsound I mean both mentally and physically.


Honest to God my blog originally started out to be about the different registry clubs one could register their dog with and what makes one club sounder than another, but when doing a little research I came upon a very disturbing video which apparently was broadcast on TV. (I’m sorry I missed it!) It does put the same question into play that I have been wondering about for a long while regarding registrations and dog breeding.


Sadly, I don’t think as yet there is a real answer to many of the questions I have, although I am sure some dog breeders would tell you in a mumbo jumbo garble of wording, how they keep track of everything or how line breeding is perfectly legit, but really, until we can take ourselves down a notch or two of always being in need of having great, greater, or greatest, our dogs will always suffer at our hands. It is totally impossible for one club to monitor millions of dog’s that register with it and I am not just talking about physical attributes, but I also mean mental stability. This not only puts the dogs at risk but also innocent humans who believe they are paying a high price for an ‘all around sound dog.’ There are just too many people in the world breeding and selling dogs to ever keep track.


This video to me is concerning and sad, and answers my question, that no one club can certify a million dogs to be sound. Watch at your own risk. It is with a heavy heart as a dog lover and a human being that I post this video put out by the BBC, however it is so important that everyone view it so hopefully much needed changes can be made. I believe this “line breeding” is really just another name for inbreeding, and we should call for an end to it, we should look at each individual breed traits, be happy with them, and not try to change them to our liking. To say this video sickens me puts it mildly.

Video

Friday, October 8, 2010

recalls of pet products food /treats

I try to post the latest when I hear them however this treat by Hartz may have slipped by since the recall date was Sept. 3 2010.    Another salmonella risk which becomes very worrisome when you have young children. Their toys may share the same floor as  where the dog eats its treat.  No matter how clean you think you are, salmonella is easy to spread around. 

click here for recalls.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

September starts disaster preparedness month


Coordinator Columbia/ Montour County SART
& Steeler


Many who know me know that I am very involved with the State Animal Response Team (SART) and although I’m a little late in this post with the busy month that the team has had, my thought is, better late than never! Even though September may hold the title “Disaster Preparedness month,” it’s good to be prepared year round and check your supplies at least twice a year. Similar to when you change your clock for daylight savings time and you are reminded to also check your smoke detector batteries. Well, add to the list checking your pet's emergency supply bag!
Hmm, might not be a bad idea to go public with that one!


Recently our team once again presented themselves in one of the largest state fairs to raise funds and awareness for our county’s SART. I am glad to say that the stats show that with each year our purpose is getting better known. We are not just seen as the people who have the big black dogs anymore! So I thank you for listening to my spiel every year!


I would also like to thank those patrons who unloaded their pockets into the donation jug near the big black dogs or who took the time to view our items and gladly traded with us a couple of dollars for a wanted item. The money that you all so graciously gave will stay in the county to help move, shelter, and rescue your animals in a disaster. Hey, it doesn’t get better than that! How often do you give to a cause where it stays right there in your own hometown?


On October 6, 2006, President George W. Bush signed the “No Pets Left Behind” act, which came on the heels of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Sadly that’s what it took to have our pets recognized. I often wonder how many people stayed in their homes because they would not leave their pets behind, or how many braved the storm only to be turned away from shelters because they brought their pets with them. I also wonder how many humans and pets died because of this breakdown in the human /pet evacuation process.


Well good news folks! SART is here to tell you that in Pennsylvania we want you to take your pets with you should you need to evacuate in a disaster situation. Our shelters will be set up for your animals and we are there to keep them safe, happy, and healthy during the first critical hours/days, (longer if needed), when a disaster strikes. Remember, a disaster can be Mother Nature motivated, or man made pure evil.


Even if you are not at home when a disaster strikes you can stop at one of our shelters, fill out a form, and when it is safe to do so we will send out a rescue team to bring your pets back to our shelter.
The Columbia/Montour SART is one of the first to team up with a local Chapter area of the Red Cross. That in itself is exciting news and hopefully other SART’s will be able to do the same in their counties. Since we are teamed up with the Danville Area Chapter of the Red Cross, this means that misplaced people will be in one side of the Danville High School and their pets will be housed on the other side. Thus making daily visits with your pet much easier.


To view the Danville Area Chapter of the Red Cross, click here. They are in need of volunteers, so put your idle time to good use.


Even with all of the above in place, there are still a few things that you can do to help us as well! (Aren’t you glad you asked?)



Keep in your wallet a Pet ID card should you be rendered unconscious or incapacitated. I have a copy of such a card here on the blog so take your mouse right click on the picture and push “save picture as” and keep it with your own pictures so you can print it off as needed. Let’s face it, if you’re like me, your animal population changes from year to year!


Follow the list below and you will be halfway there to a safe evacuation plan with your pets!


One very important note, learn the area you live in! Know alternative routes as small creeks often flood local roads. Don’t try to drive through a flooded road!


Items you should have ready for your pet’s evacuation:

A crate. It is easier for us if you can bring your animal in a crate.

A grab and go bag that you can easily grab on your way out the door which should contain:

1.A first aid kit with a small bottle of water, for eye or wound rinsing.

2. Extra collar, leash, favorite toy, & bedding.

3.Manual can opener,

4.Up to date shot records and rabies certificates. (Please note, if you cannot prove your dog is up to date on shots and is healthy it may be put in a quarantine area.)

5.The animal's Veterinarian (phone number, address).

6. Instructions on medications, illnesses, and special needs.

7. Write down any pertinent information on a piece of paper such any aggressive tendencies, identifying marks, information on tattoos and microchips.

8. Include a picture of you and your pet together for identification purposes.

9. On all paperwork include the animal's name and one or two phone numbers where you can be reached as well as leave contact information of at least three friends or relatives.

10. Ready made notes informing rescue where in the home your animals are, how many animals you have, and where to find your animal emergency kit. These can be placed on the front and back of the home just before an impending disaster.

11. All paperwork should be kept in a waterproof bag.

12 Keep a flashlight should you need to find the animal in the dark, Check the batteries regularly

13 If you have a pregnant bitch put a heating pad or warming bottle in the bag as well.


Ideas for Identification for the majority of pets.

Companion animals: Collar and tags, microchip, and tattoo. If you do not have tags for your animal write the information right on the collar itself in permanent marker.

Horses/ livestock: Microchip, tattoo, neck or leg bands, harness marking, ear tags, or mark on hooves.

Birds: Leg bands. Mark cage with luggage tags, or write information on the bottom of the cage with permanent marker.

Pocket pets: Write information on cage in permanent marker. Make sure the lids & cage doors are secure!

Reptiles: Can be marked on the skin with permanent marker, write information on masking tape in permanent marker and place onto cage/aquarium. (note: many SART’s may not be equipped to handle reptiles and where possible would send the reptiles to a business that can handle them.)

Remember that during a disaster it is a stressful situation for all involved and although you may not understand why a SART is asking for specific items, there is a reason, and the sooner we can move people and pets through the doors the better and less stressful for all involved.

Columbia & Montour Counties have several shelters but our main shelters are:

Berwick school district
Bloomsburg University (Annie’s place)
Danville High School
& Danville Child Development Center


Normally I would direct you to a link just by saying click here, however this is so important that I want you to SAY THE LINKS OUT LOUD and remember them, should the spirit move you at a later time to volunteer! (I’m sure all the bold caps will help in your decision to do that!)


If you live in Pennsylvania you can visit http://www.pasart.us/  and get the name of the coordinator in your county, or, if you would like to sign up to volunteer you can also do that on line and a coordinator will contact you.


If you do not live in Pennsylvania and want to know if you have a SART (or similar) in your state visit http://nc.sartusa.org/  and click on your state in the map of the USA.



For my Canadian friends (thanks Dr. Fiona!) http://www.cdart.org/ 


This book that I found online may be helpful to you as well


If you have young children (preschool to grade 2) I have written a story/coloring book which you can download here for free ( It may take a minute to load).  SART gives this out free during their events. It’s a great way to put some control in your child’s hands when things seem uncontrollable to them. After 20 years of working with children I have learned never to underestimate the mind of the young child!



Click here for the video of a grab and go bag, this is good for kids to get an understanding of what they would need. There are some pictures of flooding but nothing graphic. Also kids in the 4H or scouts can get involved as long as there is parent support.


To view  Chance & Steeler at this years fair and some of the wonderful people who stopped to see them click here.


 Commissioner Kovach & Steeler

Steeler
& I love the "Think Pink" just under Steeler's Picture as he was recently a supporter
raising money for breast cancer awareness in his "Fight like a Girl" Tee shirt!


Monday, October 4, 2010

Got a blogger award, for what I'm not sure!


So, I was minding my own business reading my email when I came across this one: And WTF who is rating my blog and why am I not making money off of it?


Congratulations, John Has Just Approved and Awarded You The PetsDirect.co.uk Blogger Award!


canine capers blogX
 
Awarded For..


•A Unique Blog From a Whole New And Interesting Perspective.

•A Useful and Unique Blogger Resource

•Great Literature and/or Informational Quality

•Helping the Preservation and General Well Being of A Specific Breed Type.

•Showing a True Love For a Specific Breed or Pet Type.



Given by PetsDirect.co.uk



Given by PetsDirect.co.uk




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