Puppy Size
Danielle keeps repeating it over and over again. "We've been back to this animal shelter at least five times. It has been weeks now since we started all of this," the mother told the volunteer.
"What is it she keeps asking for?", the volunteer asked.
"'Puppy size!'" replied the mother.
"Well, we have plenty of puppies, if that's what she's looking for."
"I know... we have seen most of them", the mom said in frustration.
Just then Danielle came walking into the office
"Well, did you find one?" asked her mom. "No, not this time," Danielle said with sadness in her voice. "Can we come back on the weekend?"
The two women looked at each other, shook their heads and laughed.
"You never know when we will get more dogs. Unfortunately, there's always a supply," the volunteer said.
Danielle took her mother by the hand and headed to the door. "Don 't worry, I'll find one this weekend," she said.
Over the next few days both Mom and Dad had long conversations with her.
They both felt she was being too particular. "It's this weekend or we're not looking any more," Dad finally said in frustration.
"We don't want to hear anything more about 'puppy size', either," Mom added.
Sure enough, they were the first ones in the shelter on Saturday morning. By now Danielle knew her way around, so she ran right for the section that housed the smaller dogs.
Tired of the routine, mom sat in the small waiting room at the end of the first row of cages. There was an observation window so you could see the animals during times when visitors weren't permitted.
Danielle walked slowly from cage to cage, kneeling periodically to take a closer look. One by one the dogs were brought out and she held each one.
One by one she said, "Sorry, but you're not the one."
It was the last cage on this last day in search of the perfect pup.
The volunteer opened the cage door and the child carefully picked up the dog and held it closely. This time she took a little longer.
"Mom, that's it! I found the right puppy! He's the one! I know it!" She screamed with joy. "It's the puppy size!"
"But it's the same size as all the other puppies you held over the last few weeks," Mom said.
"No...not size... The sighs. When I held him in my arms, he sighed", she said.
"Don't you remember? When I asked you one day what love is, you told me love depends on the sighs of your heart. The more you love, the bigger the sigh!"
The two women looked at each other for a moment. Mom didn't know whether to laugh or cry. As she stooped down to hug the child, she did a little of both.
"Mom, every time you hold me, I sigh. When you and Daddy come home from work and hug each other, you both sigh. I knew I would find the right puppy if it sighed when I held it in my arms", she said.
Then, holding the puppy up close to her face, she said, "Mom, he loves me. I heard the sighs of his heart!"
Author Unknown
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Dog Letter to God
TO GOD FROM THE DOG
Dear God: Is it on purpose our names are the same, only reversed?
Dear God: Why do humans smell the flowers, but seldom, if ever, smell one another?
Dear God: When we get to heaven, can we sit on your couch? Or is it still the same old story?
Dear God: Why are there cars named after the jaguar, the cougar, the mustang, the colt, the stingray, and the rabbit, but not ONE named for a Dog? How often do you see a cougar riding around? We do love a nice ride! Would it be so hard to rename the 'Chrysler Eagle' the 'Chrysler Beagle'?
Dear God: If a Dog barks his head off in the forest and no human hears him, is he still a bad Dog?
Dear God: We Dogs can understand human verbal instructions, hand signals, whistles, horns, clickers, beepers, scent ID's, electromagnetic energy fields, and Frisbee flight paths. What do humans understand?
Dear God: More meatballs, less spaghetti, please.
Dear God: Are there mailmen in Heaven? If there are, will I have to apologize?
Dear God: Let me give you a list of just some of the things I must remember to be a good Dog.
1. I will not eat the cats' food before they eat it or after they throw it up.
2. I will not roll on dead fish, crabs, etc., just because I like the way they smell.
3. The Litter Box is not a cookie jar.
4. The sofa is not a 'face towel'.
5. The garbage collector is not stealing our stuff.
6. Sticking my nose into someone's crotch is an unacceptable way of saying 'hello'.
7. I don't need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm under the coffee table.
8. I must shake the rainwater out of my fur before entering the house - not after.
9. I will not sit in the middle of the living room and lick my crotch.
10. The cat is not a 'squeaky toy' so when I play with him and he makes that noise, it's usually not a good thing.
P.S. Dear God: When I get to Heaven may I have my testicles back?
Author Unknown
Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened
Dear God: Is it on purpose our names are the same, only reversed?
Dear God: Why do humans smell the flowers, but seldom, if ever, smell one another?
Dear God: When we get to heaven, can we sit on your couch? Or is it still the same old story?
Dear God: Why are there cars named after the jaguar, the cougar, the mustang, the colt, the stingray, and the rabbit, but not ONE named for a Dog? How often do you see a cougar riding around? We do love a nice ride! Would it be so hard to rename the 'Chrysler Eagle' the 'Chrysler Beagle'?
Dear God: If a Dog barks his head off in the forest and no human hears him, is he still a bad Dog?
Dear God: We Dogs can understand human verbal instructions, hand signals, whistles, horns, clickers, beepers, scent ID's, electromagnetic energy fields, and Frisbee flight paths. What do humans understand?
Dear God: More meatballs, less spaghetti, please.
Dear God: Are there mailmen in Heaven? If there are, will I have to apologize?
Dear God: Let me give you a list of just some of the things I must remember to be a good Dog.
1. I will not eat the cats' food before they eat it or after they throw it up.
2. I will not roll on dead fish, crabs, etc., just because I like the way they smell.
3. The Litter Box is not a cookie jar.
4. The sofa is not a 'face towel'.
5. The garbage collector is not stealing our stuff.
6. Sticking my nose into someone's crotch is an unacceptable way of saying 'hello'.
7. I don't need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm under the coffee table.
8. I must shake the rainwater out of my fur before entering the house - not after.
9. I will not sit in the middle of the living room and lick my crotch.
10. The cat is not a 'squeaky toy' so when I play with him and he makes that noise, it's usually not a good thing.
P.S. Dear God: When I get to Heaven may I have my testicles back?
Author Unknown
Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened
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Sunday, March 28, 2010
Patience
patience is the key to rehabilitation.
He has found that one of the most important traits you can have as a canine professional is patience. He believes that you have to work with the dog over and over until he gets it. Sometimes a behavior change can be quick, but even then, it requires follow-through. He warns that you cannot revert back to your old behavior, or the dog will, too!
Remember, Cesar insists, rehabilitation is a process – not a quick fix. You need to send a clear and consistent message 24/7 and 365 days a year. The behavior change will not necessarily happen overnight. You have to celebrate the progress along the way and know that success is in the dog's future!
In our multi-tasking, instant access world, many of us have little patience. If this is true of you, look at it like this: your dog is giving you an opportunity to work on your development as a human being! Take the skills you are learning with him and apply it to other areas in your life. Be patient with your friends, family members, co-workers, and even complete strangers. You may find yourself a happier person for it.
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Thursday, March 25, 2010
Cesar Honored with 2010 “Shape Up America” Animal Health Advocate Award
On Sunday, March 14, Cesar Millan was honored as this year’s recipient of the Animal Health Advocate Achievement Award, as part of Operation Fitness’ first “Shape Up America” campaign. The campaign is a 30-city tour that aims to fight the obesity epidemic in this country.
As Cesar is currently touring the UK giving seminars, Dog Whisperer Co-Producer Christina Lublin accepted the award on his behalf.
“The first annual Operation Fitness “Shape Up America” campaign was a success,” Christina said. “It's great to know that people are really taking their dogs' health and fitness seriously. Cesar's message of having a balanced dog includes the mind and body, so this award was a real honor.”
The “Shape Up America” Campaign was created to help adults, children, and pets get healthy for their own benefit and for the lasting benefits that will strengthen the entire nation for generations to come. The goal is to show people how they can create fun, simple ways of working out, along with participating in stimulating activities at home, at the office, in a park, or in the wilderness. Each of the cities visited by the tour will offer free fitness events including health screenings, nutrition lectures, healthy cooking tips, athletic competitions and fitness classes, pet health seminars and fitness demonstrations, and dog obedience training.
“I believe that the pack is a family unit, and every pack leader naturally wants to ensure the vitality and longevity of his or her family members. We want the years we spend together with our packs to be happy and lively ones,” Cesar said in his acceptance speech, which Christina read to the audience.
An estimated 25 to 40% of dogs are overweight, yet many dog owners are unaware their dog has a weight problem. Dogs who suffer from obesity often develop health issues due to the added stress on their heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and joints. Such physical issues, combined with a lack of exercise, often result in behavioral problems, Cesar has said.
One of the big topics at the event was the diabetes epidemic among kids in the U.S., Christina said. It was a topic of particular interest to her as her toy cockapoo Zoey, who she brought with her to the awards ceremony, is a 7-year-old diabetic, diagnosed as a puppy.
“I am humbled every day to help people and their dogs live in a happy, balanced relationship,” Cesar said in his speech, “and I am pleased that "Shape Up America" is including pets in this important campaign.”
Christina Lublin, Co-Producer of Dog Whisperer
with Cesar Millan, accepts the 2010
Animal Health Advocate Achievement Award
on Cesar’s behalf; with Chris DeRose,
founder of Last Chance for Animals (LCA)
For more information, visit www.operationfitness.com
As Cesar is currently touring the UK giving seminars, Dog Whisperer Co-Producer Christina Lublin accepted the award on his behalf.
“The first annual Operation Fitness “Shape Up America” campaign was a success,” Christina said. “It's great to know that people are really taking their dogs' health and fitness seriously. Cesar's message of having a balanced dog includes the mind and body, so this award was a real honor.”
The “Shape Up America” Campaign was created to help adults, children, and pets get healthy for their own benefit and for the lasting benefits that will strengthen the entire nation for generations to come. The goal is to show people how they can create fun, simple ways of working out, along with participating in stimulating activities at home, at the office, in a park, or in the wilderness. Each of the cities visited by the tour will offer free fitness events including health screenings, nutrition lectures, healthy cooking tips, athletic competitions and fitness classes, pet health seminars and fitness demonstrations, and dog obedience training.
“I believe that the pack is a family unit, and every pack leader naturally wants to ensure the vitality and longevity of his or her family members. We want the years we spend together with our packs to be happy and lively ones,” Cesar said in his acceptance speech, which Christina read to the audience.
An estimated 25 to 40% of dogs are overweight, yet many dog owners are unaware their dog has a weight problem. Dogs who suffer from obesity often develop health issues due to the added stress on their heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and joints. Such physical issues, combined with a lack of exercise, often result in behavioral problems, Cesar has said.
One of the big topics at the event was the diabetes epidemic among kids in the U.S., Christina said. It was a topic of particular interest to her as her toy cockapoo Zoey, who she brought with her to the awards ceremony, is a 7-year-old diabetic, diagnosed as a puppy.
“I am humbled every day to help people and their dogs live in a happy, balanced relationship,” Cesar said in his speech, “and I am pleased that "Shape Up America" is including pets in this important campaign.”
with Cesar Millan, accepts the 2010
Animal Health Advocate Achievement Award
on Cesar’s behalf; with Chris DeRose,
founder of Last Chance for Animals (LCA)
For more information, visit www.operationfitness.com
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Dogs in Slow Motion
Dogs are fascinating to watch. They do such cool things - but it is even MORE fun to see them in slow motion! Their movements and expressions are amazing.
I was a mesmerized by this video.
It is a fascinating commercial of dogs moving in slow motion.
I was a mesmerized by this video.
It is a fascinating commercial of dogs moving in slow motion.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
On Second Thought
Do you remember this previous post?
4 squeakers — 1 in each foot
Cawing mechanism in his tummy
Soft & cuddly but STRONG
Made to withstand chewing
He’s made with Chew Guard™ Technology, for extra tough protection against your dog’s teeth. Heavy-duty thread, double seaming and a super-tough liner will keep even tough chewers from tearing this toy apart. (It can withstand extremely high bite pressure and a pulling strength of up to 30 kg.)
This cute little lamb makes fun, engaging noises that will make your dog eager to play with him. He has a cawing sound mechanism in his tummy and 4 fun squeakers — one in each foot.
His baby-soft fleece feels soft and cuddly ... but inside, this little lamb is as tough as they get!
This is one TOUGH little lamb!
YES, this little lamb was a favorite of Ebony's
BUT, she out chewed the Chew Guard™ Technology!
The poor lamb is flat as a pancake!
4 squeakers — 1 in each foot
Cawing mechanism in his tummy
Soft & cuddly but STRONG
Made to withstand chewing
He’s made with Chew Guard™ Technology, for extra tough protection against your dog’s teeth. Heavy-duty thread, double seaming and a super-tough liner will keep even tough chewers from tearing this toy apart. (It can withstand extremely high bite pressure and a pulling strength of up to 30 kg.)
This cute little lamb makes fun, engaging noises that will make your dog eager to play with him. He has a cawing sound mechanism in his tummy and 4 fun squeakers — one in each foot.
His baby-soft fleece feels soft and cuddly ... but inside, this little lamb is as tough as they get!
This is one TOUGH little lamb!
YES, this little lamb was a favorite of Ebony's
BUT, she out chewed the Chew Guard™ Technology!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Doggie Dentures
You have GOT to see this!
Just for fun, Pedigree developed a cool interactive program on their website called "denture your dog". You can upload a photo of your dog and put dentures on him - there are several "smiles" to choose from and they are a real riot.
It will really make you laugh. Have the kids try it, too.
Click here to "denture your dog"
Did you know that over 80% of dogs have dental disease or gum disease?
In fact, this is one of the most common diseases in dogs. The best way to help prevent this disease is to brush your dog's teeth and to give your dog treats that reduce tartar. These tartar-control treats can be very effective.
Reminds me of the Cheshire Cat
Just for fun, Pedigree developed a cool interactive program on their website called "denture your dog". You can upload a photo of your dog and put dentures on him - there are several "smiles" to choose from and they are a real riot.
It will really make you laugh. Have the kids try it, too.
Click here to "denture your dog"
Did you know that over 80% of dogs have dental disease or gum disease?
In fact, this is one of the most common diseases in dogs. The best way to help prevent this disease is to brush your dog's teeth and to give your dog treats that reduce tartar. These tartar-control treats can be very effective.
Labels:
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Saturday, March 20, 2010
Plants Toxic to Pets - Be Aware
Today is the first day of spring - a day that we welcome whole-heartedly after a long winter. With spring comes warmer weather and a ton of plants with the potential to be toxic to pets.
We all love plants, but we want to keep our dogs safe. So what's a plant-loving dog owner to do? Learn which plants are toxic and plant your garden with that knowledge in mind.
Toxic Plants
The springtime plants that can result in gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats include:
Amaryllis
Ferns
Caladium
Calla lily
Hyacinth
Iris
Tulip
Plants that are considered very toxic and can result in severe illness or even death include:
Crocus
Azalea
Rhododendron
Tiger Lily
Easter Lily
Bittersweet
Clematis
Daffodil
Day lily
Foxglove
Lily of the Valley
Narcissus
Morning Glory
Death Camas
Though some plants can cause serious illness or death, irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract are the most common problems. Vomiting usually occurs soon after ingestion, which removes most of the plant from the system and reduces additional toxin absorption.
The most important part of treating ingestion of a toxic plant is to determine if your pet actually ate the plant, how much was ingested and which part of the plant was eaten. The entire plant is not always toxic. Sometimes only the seeds, the leaves, stems or roots are toxic. Also, plant identification is crucial in diagnosis. Get a sample of the plant if you are unsure of the name. This information can help your veterinarian determine the best course of treatment.
Unfortunately, there are very few specific treatments or antidotes for toxic plant ingestion. Supportive care, including intravenous fluids, may be necessary. Without proper care, some plant toxicities can have devastating effects on your pet's health.
By knowing which plants could pose a threat, you can work towards preventing your pet from access to the plant and keep your pets safe and your yard beautiful.
We all love plants, but we want to keep our dogs safe. So what's a plant-loving dog owner to do? Learn which plants are toxic and plant your garden with that knowledge in mind.
Toxic Plants
The springtime plants that can result in gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats include:
Amaryllis
Ferns
Caladium
Calla lily
Hyacinth
Iris
Tulip
Plants that are considered very toxic and can result in severe illness or even death include:
Crocus
Azalea
Rhododendron
Tiger Lily
Easter Lily
Bittersweet
Clematis
Daffodil
Day lily
Foxglove
Lily of the Valley
Narcissus
Morning Glory
Death Camas
Though some plants can cause serious illness or death, irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract are the most common problems. Vomiting usually occurs soon after ingestion, which removes most of the plant from the system and reduces additional toxin absorption.
The most important part of treating ingestion of a toxic plant is to determine if your pet actually ate the plant, how much was ingested and which part of the plant was eaten. The entire plant is not always toxic. Sometimes only the seeds, the leaves, stems or roots are toxic. Also, plant identification is crucial in diagnosis. Get a sample of the plant if you are unsure of the name. This information can help your veterinarian determine the best course of treatment.
Unfortunately, there are very few specific treatments or antidotes for toxic plant ingestion. Supportive care, including intravenous fluids, may be necessary. Without proper care, some plant toxicities can have devastating effects on your pet's health.
By knowing which plants could pose a threat, you can work towards preventing your pet from access to the plant and keep your pets safe and your yard beautiful.
Labels:
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pets,
plants toxic to pets,
toxic plants
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Healthy Dog Treats
Obesity in dogs is a major health concern. Just as with people, canine obesity can lead to very serious health problems. Diabetes, pancreatitis, arthritis and heart disease are just a few of the problems that can be caused by or worsened if your dog is overweight. While many pets are fortunate to stay naturally slim, there are those who seem to get fat with little effort.
And then there are those accomplished actors who have refined the business of asking for a morsel to an art form. Here are a few suggestions for offering your pet some healthy alternatives when you want to give them a treat.
If your pet has any type of weight problem (underweight as well as overweight) please check with your veterinarian to rule out possible causes. If your pet has dietary restrictions, discuss giving any new food with your vet.
Vegetables
Anyone who's ever seen a dog eat grass or greens knows there's a vegetarian side to your pet. Before domestication, when dogs hunted for their living, they ate the entrails of their prey, which contained a considerable amount of digested vegetable matter. Most animals still want some of this vegetation, but can't digest the tough fibrous components on their own. Try offering your dog some cooked green beans, carrots or peas. Many pets love them, and you can even mix them into their regular diet.
Rice, Popcorn and Pasta
Another favorite for many pets are rice, popcorn and pasta. A bit of a rice cake or some air popped popcorn is a great substitute for a high fat treat. Cooked rice can be added for bulk to a weight control diet. It's a way of giving your pet more food without adding a lot of fat calories. Cooked pasta is also great. Many pets relish a few elbow macaroni or other plain pasta.
Egg Whites, Cottage Cheese and Yogurt
A cooked egg white is a great protein treat, hard boil a few and keep them on hand. (The yolk has all the fat!) A little dab of cottage cheese or plain yogurt substitutes for licking that ice cream bowl!
Prescription Diets
If your pet has a health problem that is being controlled on a prescription diet from your veterinarian, sometimes treats have to be eliminated. Ask your veterinarian if a canned formulation of the diet is available. Most companies do make both canned and dried versions. Remove the food from the can in one large piece. Use a cheese slicer or knife to cut 1/4-inch slices and put them on a cookie sheet. Bake them at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until they are crispy, like a cracker. This gives your pet a crunchy treat that stays within the diet plan.
Food Sensitivities
Many pets have allergies or food sensitivities. Common culprits are dyes, flavorings, preservatives, carbohydrates and protein sources. If your pet is sensitive to any of these components, look for treats that are hypoallergenic, and have minimal or no dyes or preservatives. There are a number available in your local pet store.
The Last Word
If you can't resist feeding your pet little extras from the table or sharing every meal you have with him, consider carefully what you may be doing. A small dog that would normally weigh 10 to 12 pounds can gain a considerable amount of weight being given an overabundance of treats. A weight gain of one pound may not seem like much but to a small pet, one pound can be 10 percent of his body weight. That's like 15 pounds for a person! Use some healthy alternatives to help keep your pet in his best shape.
And then there are those accomplished actors who have refined the business of asking for a morsel to an art form. Here are a few suggestions for offering your pet some healthy alternatives when you want to give them a treat.
If your pet has any type of weight problem (underweight as well as overweight) please check with your veterinarian to rule out possible causes. If your pet has dietary restrictions, discuss giving any new food with your vet.
Vegetables
Anyone who's ever seen a dog eat grass or greens knows there's a vegetarian side to your pet. Before domestication, when dogs hunted for their living, they ate the entrails of their prey, which contained a considerable amount of digested vegetable matter. Most animals still want some of this vegetation, but can't digest the tough fibrous components on their own. Try offering your dog some cooked green beans, carrots or peas. Many pets love them, and you can even mix them into their regular diet.
Rice, Popcorn and Pasta
Another favorite for many pets are rice, popcorn and pasta. A bit of a rice cake or some air popped popcorn is a great substitute for a high fat treat. Cooked rice can be added for bulk to a weight control diet. It's a way of giving your pet more food without adding a lot of fat calories. Cooked pasta is also great. Many pets relish a few elbow macaroni or other plain pasta.
Egg Whites, Cottage Cheese and Yogurt
A cooked egg white is a great protein treat, hard boil a few and keep them on hand. (The yolk has all the fat!) A little dab of cottage cheese or plain yogurt substitutes for licking that ice cream bowl!
Prescription Diets
If your pet has a health problem that is being controlled on a prescription diet from your veterinarian, sometimes treats have to be eliminated. Ask your veterinarian if a canned formulation of the diet is available. Most companies do make both canned and dried versions. Remove the food from the can in one large piece. Use a cheese slicer or knife to cut 1/4-inch slices and put them on a cookie sheet. Bake them at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until they are crispy, like a cracker. This gives your pet a crunchy treat that stays within the diet plan.
Food Sensitivities
Many pets have allergies or food sensitivities. Common culprits are dyes, flavorings, preservatives, carbohydrates and protein sources. If your pet is sensitive to any of these components, look for treats that are hypoallergenic, and have minimal or no dyes or preservatives. There are a number available in your local pet store.
The Last Word
If you can't resist feeding your pet little extras from the table or sharing every meal you have with him, consider carefully what you may be doing. A small dog that would normally weigh 10 to 12 pounds can gain a considerable amount of weight being given an overabundance of treats. A weight gain of one pound may not seem like much but to a small pet, one pound can be 10 percent of his body weight. That's like 15 pounds for a person! Use some healthy alternatives to help keep your pet in his best shape.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
K9 Veterans Day
In the United States, we rest safe and sound at night thanks to the service of brave men, women… and dogs!
Every year on March 13th, K9 Veterans Day honors not only those in the K9 Corps, but also the Police K9s, Customs K9s, Border Patrol K9s, Secret Service K9s, Airport Police K9s, F.B.I. K9s, and other dogs that protect us every day.
Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, often says that dogs need jobs. Few jobs are more important than those performed by these K9 Veterans. These dogs protect us from bombs, sniff out criminals, guard our borders, and protect our police force. Their intelligence and unwavering loyalty make them perfectly suited for the work, and the jobs they do are indispensable.
These dogs are true American heroes, but often, they go unrecognized. Only their human partners and families celebrate their accomplishments.
Let's acknowledge their contributions and thank them for their courage!
Labels:
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Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Mixed Breed or Purebred?
You have decided to add a dog to your family. Now you need to decide, should you adopt a mixed breed or a purebred?
It's important to learn the positive and negative aspects of both so you can make an educated decision.
Purebred dogs come with canine "roadmaps" detailing their personality traits, idiosyncrasies and health profiles. However, purebreds are often less hardy than mixed breeds, both physically and often emotionally, as a result of inbreeding.
Mixed breeds are also often less subject to the behavioral extremes seen in many of the purebred dogs. Some of the most important questions you need to ask yourself would be: Are you interested in a particular look? Can you handle some unpredictability? Are medical issues a worry? How big is your pocket book?
The Look of Love
For some people, the look of a certain dog breed is what they crave. The refined, graceful Saluki or the massive strength of the Rottweiler is what they want.
By adding a purebred puppy to your home, you have a pretty good idea what you are going to get when he becomes an adult. With over 150 American Kennel Club (AKC)-recognized breeds, and many more breeds beyond this, there are a lot to choose from.
If looks aren't that important and you enjoy the unknown, think about a mixed breed. Though you may have an idea of the breeds involved in your pup, you won't know how those breeds will affect the overall size and look of your dog until he is all grown up. For some, personality is more important and watching their puppy grow and develop is part of the fun.
The Uncertain Future
Each breed has its own history and reason for being that has become part of its genetic code. The AKC divides the breeds into eight groups that essentially reflect their backgrounds: sporting, non-sporting, hounds, working dogs, herding dogs, terriers, toys and a small miscellaneous class. The dogs within those groups all have similar personalities and characteristics. As the purebred pup grows, you have some idea of what to expect. Parson Russell terriers, for instance, need lots of activity and the beagle has a tendency to dig.
A mixed breed dog has a wide-open and rather unpredictable future. The mix of breeds used to develop this special pup can result in many different personalities. Even though your puppy may look like he has some German shepherd in his lineage, this doesn't mean he will be a natural guardian and protector. Some people feel that mixed breeds are an open slate and are an easier fit to any lifestyle. Without a hardwired temperament, these dogs can be trained the way you want them. But, there is also the possibility that by mixing breeds, the worst aspects of their personality can be amplified, resulting in a mixed bag of trouble.
Healthy and Fit
Purebred dogs are specifically bred to other dogs of the same breed. This selective breeding has led to some small genetic pools, which results in an increased risk of certain genetic disorders. German shepherds and St. Bernard's have a tendency to suffer from hip dysplasia, a degenerative disease that causes lameness, while Dalmatians have a tendency toward deafness and urinary stones. Typically, responsible breeders are aware of these potential problems and have diligently worked to reduce the risk. However, generally speaking, purebred dogs are more prone to certain illnesses than mixed breed dogs.
The mixed breed dog tends to have less genetic disorders. A testament to "hybrid vigor," dogs developed by mixing genetic material from a variety of breeds usually end up with more stamina and are generally a hardier group of canines.
How Much Is That Doggie?
One final aspect to consider when deciding between a purebred or a mixed breed dog is cost. If you are interested in having a show quality Rhodesian ridgeback, be prepared to pay $800 to $1000, or even more, depending on lineage. Even the more common show quality purebred golden retriever can set you back several hundred dollars. This price does not just get you a purebred pup but also gives you the dog's history. The breeder should be able to tell you about the temperament, personality, health concerns and life span of your pup's ancestors. This can help you prepare and have a better idea of what the future holds.
Mixed breed dogs tend to be significantly less expensive to obtain. Whether adopted from a shelter for a nominal fee or given a home and refuge from the streets, these mutts can be obtained with a minimal initial investment.
Be aware that the cost of owning a dog is the same whether he is a champion show dog or a stray taken in from the streets. Food, toys and veterinary care all cost the same.
Friday, March 12, 2010
The Importance of Affection
Love is one of the greatest gifts we can share with our dogs. Dogs are affectionate animals. Touch means a lot to them, both in their natural world and when they live with us. However, affection that hasn't been earned and is shared at the wrong time can be detrimental to a dog.
Here are a few of Cesar Millan's, The Dog Whisperer, thoughts on sharing affection.
Give affection - but at the right time! Remember anytime you give affection, you reinforce the behavior preceding it. Reward stability. Share your love when your dog is in a calm-submissive state.
Share affection after a dog has... exercised and eaten, changed an unwanted behavior into a behavior you asked for, responded to a rule or command, or entered a calm-submissive state.
Don't share affection when your dog is... fearful, anxious, possessive, dominant, aggressive, whining, begging, barking, or breaking a household rule.
Don't forget exercise and discipline. Prove your love by giving your dog what he or she needs: long walks; rules, boundaries, and limitations
Give your dogs as much love as you have! Give as much love as your heart can handle and then some! But please give it at the right time.
Here are a few of Cesar Millan's, The Dog Whisperer, thoughts on sharing affection.
Give affection - but at the right time! Remember anytime you give affection, you reinforce the behavior preceding it. Reward stability. Share your love when your dog is in a calm-submissive state.
Share affection after a dog has... exercised and eaten, changed an unwanted behavior into a behavior you asked for, responded to a rule or command, or entered a calm-submissive state.
Don't share affection when your dog is... fearful, anxious, possessive, dominant, aggressive, whining, begging, barking, or breaking a household rule.
Don't forget exercise and discipline. Prove your love by giving your dog what he or she needs: long walks; rules, boundaries, and limitations
Give your dogs as much love as you have! Give as much love as your heart can handle and then some! But please give it at the right time.
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Get in SHAPE with Cesar Millan!
The Cesar and Ilusion Millan Foundation reaches out to shelters and rescue groups across the country, providing access to educational materials for staff, volunteers, and new adopters.
The Foundation has created a network of animal shelters and rescue organizations called Shelter Stars. Through these groups, they provided free information on the basics of dog psychology to new adopting families. There are 450 Shelter Stars partners, and the Foundation's goal is to reach 25,000 new adopting families this year.
The newest progam, the SHelter Animal Physical Enrichment program (SHAPE) provides training guides, DVDs, and mentoring for staff, volunteers, and adopting families to implement Cesar Millan's calm, assertive leadership principles in animal shelters. Creating a balanced, peaceful environment in shelters alleviates fear and anxiety for displaced animals and enables them to be properly matched with their forever home.
Way to go, Cesar and Ilusion Millan Foundation!
The Foundation has created a network of animal shelters and rescue organizations called Shelter Stars. Through these groups, they provided free information on the basics of dog psychology to new adopting families. There are 450 Shelter Stars partners, and the Foundation's goal is to reach 25,000 new adopting families this year.
The newest progam, the SHelter Animal Physical Enrichment program (SHAPE) provides training guides, DVDs, and mentoring for staff, volunteers, and adopting families to implement Cesar Millan's calm, assertive leadership principles in animal shelters. Creating a balanced, peaceful environment in shelters alleviates fear and anxiety for displaced animals and enables them to be properly matched with their forever home.
Way to go, Cesar and Ilusion Millan Foundation!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Do Dogs Get The Blues?
Many of us get the winter blues while waiting for warmer temperatures and sunny skies to return. Some of us mope around the house, whining, and making nuisance of ourselves with our restlessness.
Others get seriously depressed to the point where daily activities are difficult to perform. If these feelings are deep enough, the condition is called "seasonal affective disorder" or "SAD."
SAD is a disorder different from "the blahs," those moments when we feel generally down. Although not fully understood, SAD is though to be caused by a lack of bright light affecting hormonal balances.
Affected people may have bouts of unexplained crying, desire for sweets, excessive fatigue, lethargy, depression, anxiety, and mood swings.
Do our dogs suffer from the same malaise? Probably not. While they do get depressed, dogs aren't known to suffer from SAD. More likely, your dog is mirroring your own feelings, explains Dr. Nick Dodman, professor and the Director of the Behavior Clinic at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine.
Dogs do have a hormonal response to the change in seasons. For instance, they shed their coats in spring and fall. But Dodman says it's a stretch to say that dogs experience the winter blues themselves.
Dogs do seem to be prone to cabin fever, like people. And even worse for them, they are not as entertained as us by watching old reruns or rented movies. But they do like exercise, which is the best tonic for winter blues for people and pets.
But if your dog just seems a little down or sad, consider how you've been feeling. Because dogs are so attuned to our emotions and body language, it's likely they pick up on our feelings and act accordingly, notes Dodman. Not knowing what's amiss, dogs may become anxious and clingy, especially if they are closely bonded with their owners.
So if you see your dog acting a little out of sorts, maybe you've both been cooped up inside a little too long. If weather permits, go outside for a healthy run or some play. Aerobic exercise is the best thing you can do to boost you both out of winter's doldrums.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
What Does Your Dog Say About You?
Does having a certain type of dog say something about you?
Although there is no scientific proof that this is true, many people believe that your dog DOES say something about you.
So what kind of dog do you have?
The PetPlace staff put together a great article entitled "What Does Your Dog Say About You". It looks at more than 50 dog breeds and what these breeds say about their owners.
Do you want to know what your dog says about you?
Then check out the complete list with all 50 breeds.
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Monday, March 8, 2010
Puppies Grow Fast
Puppies do grow and develop quickly. Have you ever seen a puppy grow in only a couple of minutes?
A dog basically goes from a baby to an adult in one year's time - which is equivalent to almost 18 years of human life. After that, their growth slows down, but the first 6 months are amazing.
I found this very sweet video. This owner took a photo of their dog every day from the time he was 6 weeks old until he turned 6 months old, and turned it into a 2-minute video! It is very cute!
Check out how quickly this pup grows!
A dog basically goes from a baby to an adult in one year's time - which is equivalent to almost 18 years of human life. After that, their growth slows down, but the first 6 months are amazing.
I found this very sweet video. This owner took a photo of their dog every day from the time he was 6 weeks old until he turned 6 months old, and turned it into a 2-minute video! It is very cute!
Check out how quickly this pup grows!
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Sunday, March 7, 2010
Different Learning Rates for Dogs
Just like people, dogs have different learning abilities. Some dogs learn quickly, some slowly, and some learn at different rates depending on many factors including what you are attempting to teach them.
You should never compare your pup against another of the same age. Even if they are from the same litter, their learning ability can be very different. The most important thing you can do is spend time with your pup and watch how he learns and is developing. Watch for a willingness to work with you; watch for independence and stubbornness. Look for sensitivities; identify what pleases and rewards him after a behavior. Get to know his personality.
In your dog's development, you may reach steps where he seems to be learning very little or even going backwards. Don’t let this frustrate you. On occasion, we have to slow down. Make sure that you continue to be consistent and follow though, and do it fairly and with understanding.
There will be times when your dog will be distracted, times when he will decide not to obey, and times when he will not understand what you feel is a familiar command because of the situation. Believe that your dog really wants to be good and do as asked and help him through it.
Even clever dogs can encounter difficulties which slow his learning down. These can be caused by distractions, the activity you are teaching, and the tools you are using. Unfamiliarity or the attraction of some other stimulus can create learning difficulties – barriers to the retention of what we are teaching. Even dogs that pick up certain commands quickly may have problems with others.
Remember we are always training 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 52 weeks a year. It is a fact that if you do something that creates an unwanted behavior, then that behavior will stick for a long time. Good behaviors need repeating many times to become a habit. Be a trainer always. So when you take your dog out of the crate, teach him to wait and be invited out. When going through a door, again he can wait until invited through. When guests come, ask him to sit and wait for the guests to say hello to him. When going for a walk, we don’t keep going with him pulling; we only walk and advance when he is not pulling. Consistency throughout is the secret. There are few formal training lessons, but every activity is training and an opportunity to teach. If you do this as a matter of routine, one day someone will say, “What a well behaved dog.” and you will say “Yes, he was a natural!”
Advice from Martin Deeley
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Dog Lovers Favorite Pet Movies
What are some good pet movies?
To answer that questions, petplace.com sent out a survey asking pet lovers what were their favorite movies. They received hundreds of responses and here are the results. The list is in order with the movie with the most votes at the top!
Print this list and keep it so you know some great options for next time you are at the video store!
If you haven't seen these – curl up with your favorite critters and enjoy!
Top Pet Movies
1. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
2. Turner and Hooch
3. Lady and the Tramp
4. Dr. Doolittle
5. Eight Below
6. Air Bud
7. Beethoven
8. Benji
9. Best in Show
10. 101 Dalmatians
11. All dogs go to Heaven
12. Milo and Otis
13. Where the Red Fern Grows
14. Lassie Come Home
To answer that questions, petplace.com sent out a survey asking pet lovers what were their favorite movies. They received hundreds of responses and here are the results. The list is in order with the movie with the most votes at the top!
Print this list and keep it so you know some great options for next time you are at the video store!
If you haven't seen these – curl up with your favorite critters and enjoy!
Top Pet Movies
1. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
2. Turner and Hooch
3. Lady and the Tramp
4. Dr. Doolittle
5. Eight Below
6. Air Bud
7. Beethoven
8. Benji
9. Best in Show
10. 101 Dalmatians
11. All dogs go to Heaven
12. Milo and Otis
13. Where the Red Fern Grows
14. Lassie Come Home
Labels:
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dog lovers favorite pet movies,
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pet owners
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Dog Sitter DVD
Do you feel bad when you have to leave your dog home alone?
Dogs have very little to occupy their time while you're gone. (We're their entertainment.) Some dogs seem content to nap away their day while you're away. Other dogs have a much harder time coping with the situation when they're home all alone. These dogs can suffer from boredom, stress or separation anxiety.
If you haven't seen the Dog Sitter DVD yet, you really must check it out. It is amazing! This DVD was made especially for dogs, to entertain them for hours on end while you're away. It features lots of animals (birds, cats, squirrels, raccoons and more) outdoors in their natural environment. Your dog will think he's outside with his new friends joining in the fun.
Dogs just love this DVD. It keeps them actively entertained for hours on end. The stereo soundtrack even has some sounds that only your dog can hear. And once you find out which tracks are your dog's favorites, you can even personalize his viewing adventure using the continuous loop scene selection feature.
When your dog is stuck inside all alone, the Dog Sitter DVD can bring the outside world in. What a GREAT IDEA!
Labels:
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Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Daddy's Emergency Animal Rescue Fund
In life, Daddy effortlessly served as a canine role model, working with Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer, to save the lives of wayward dogs and their disheartened owners by setting a positive example. To honor his memory and the contribution he made to improve the lives of animals in need, the Millan Foundation has created Daddy's Emergency Animal Rescue [DEAR] Fund, which will provide assistance for dogs who are victims of abuse or violence, man-made disasters (hoarder and puppy mill rescues), and large-scale natural disasters (hurricanes, fires, and other natural catastrophes).
Contribute to the DEAR fund
Remembering Daddy
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