Dog Training Books, The Internet and Your Dog?

This is a good video, definitely worth a watch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI2miZxtPm8

New Owner Checklist

Your dog's first few weeks home will likely be a period of huge adjustment for both of you. You can make the transition much easier all around by taking a few steps.

Checklist for the new owner
1. Get your dog used to his crate. Crates are the best way to housetrain, but most dogs need a little time to warm up to them. This isn't hard to do; you just need to know how to introduce your dog or puppy to his crate.

2. Start your training. The earlier you start, the faster and easier it will be to teach good manners and the better the lessons will stick. The two most important things to teach your dog are:* housetraining* being friendly to people and other dogs

3. Set up a routine. It doesn't need to be exact, but a regular routine makes housetraining effective and is reassuring to your dog. Figure out a schedule for walks, meals, bathroom breaks, and exercise--then try to stick to it.

4. Get your dog license. It's a legal requirement, and your dog's tag may save his life if he ever gets lost. You may also want to get your dog microchipped for extra insurance. Check with your local animal care and control to find out how to get your dog licensed; you may be able to do it online.

5. Find a vet.It's especially important for a puppy's first vet visit to be a pleasant experience so your dog learns to take trips to the vet in stride. Ask around for referrals and schedule your first appointment. Your dog will need a check-up and possibly some vaccinations.

(article can be found in its original entirety at http://dogtime.com/new-dog-first-week-dog-training-center.html)

Road Warrior Survival Guide

By Susan Sims of Fido Friendly magazine

What to pack for a road trip with your dog

Vaccination records
Keep a copy of all vaccination records in your doggy's duffel bag. Should an emergency arise once you are on the road, you will have the important information you need. You will also need these records when boarding Fido for the day or overnight if you take in an excursion where your furry companion is not allowed.

Collar and leash
Remember that taking Fido out of the car for potty breaks must include his collar being secured and him being leashed (don't forget the poop bags). A foreign territory brings unique smells that are oh so hard to resist, and your little darling can escape before you can say, "Sit, stay."

Tags
Fido won't want to get lost, so be sure that he has a current tag with an emergency phone number firmly attached to his collar or harness. Most people travel with a cell phone, making this the perfect number for your dog's tag.

First aid kit
There are a number of doggy first aid kits on the market, and if you have the time, you can even put together your own.

Some essentials to include are:
Tweezers to remove ticks
Stypic powder to stop toenail bleeding
Eye wash to flush wounds
Gauze bandage
Adhesive tape
Scissors
Antiseptic moist wipes

Food and water
Be sure to bring along Fido's favorite food so as not to upset his stomach. There are great road-worthy foods and treats on the market. If you will be cooking for Fido, make the food ahead of time, and pack it along with your own goodies.Your dog is used to drinking water from your hometown, and when traveling it's a good idea to bring along as much of Fido's drinking water as you can, and rely on bottled water as back-up.

Seat covers and blankets
Vacations are supposed to be fun, and nothing says fun like four muddy paws...not! Protect your seats with covers and blankets made especially for your type of automobile. Be proactive: Always carry additional towels and wipes to clean off your rambunctious Rover.Safety restraints Did you know that in some states seatbelts are now mandatory for Fido? When you think of your best friend as a projectile in case of an accident, you understand the wisdom of securing Fido to keep both of you safe.

Beds and crate
Don't leave home without Fido's favorite blankey or bed. You don't want him sleeping on the guest bed...or do you? Bring sheets, too, so if your furry companion is accustomed to sleeping on the furniture, he won't leave any tell-tail signs. If Fido calls his crate his den, then bring it along for a good night sleep during your vacation.

Fun stuff
Don't forget the toys! If Fido is a nervous Nelly when staying away from home, help ease his discomfort by bringing as many toys from home as you can. Familiar smells and chew toys will help calm even the most anxious pet.

If Rocky is a Rock Monanoff aficionado, by all means pack his favorite CD for his and your listening pleasure.

Double-check hotel reservations
You are ready to go--but before you back the mini-van out of the driveway, call your hotel to confirm your reservation and that they are expecting Fido. Nothing says bummer like a newly implemented "no pets allowed" policy since you made your reservation.

Now you are prepared to hit the road with Fido knowing you have thought of everything. Safe travels are in store--and don't forget to pack your copy of Fido Friendly magazine for more great travel ideas.

** Article provided by Fido Friendly magazine.
(photo can be found at http://www.flickr.com/photos/clg20171/2888118927/)

Training to Your Dog's Personality

You'll have more success training your dog if you tailor your approach to his personality.



Some dogs are so sensitive they need little more than a disapproving look to get the message. Others fall into the happy-go-lucky, thicker-skinned camp, and may need a more insistent delivery to get down all the rules. A third group might generously be called creative thinkers, as they can sometimes give their people a hard time. "These independent-minded dogs might wonder, for instance, whether it's only in this house that they can't sleep on the couch," says trainer, behaviorist, and contributing editor Kelly Dunbar. "Or whether they can't chew on shoes only when you're not home. These are also the dogs who can occasionally push back when you push them."

Basic training

Dogs may have different learning styles, but they all benefit from structure, routine, and consistent enforcing of boundaries. As pack animals, they're also looking to you for gentle, benevolent leadership. Yelling, hitting, and other techniques that inflict pain or fear are never the solution for any dog--they can create a behavior problem or make an existing problem worse.


Different dogs, different training styles
Some dogs fall cleanly into different personality categories. Others are harder to identify and may straddle categories. If you can't figure out where your dog fits in, maybe our behavior assessment test can help.

Highly sensitive
They learn quickly, are very tuned into their environment, read their owners like a book--and can be positively flattened by forceful behavior. Even praise, if too exuberant, can rattle them. They need a quiet, calm style of teaching.

Training strategy:
A gentle, light touch works with these dogs. Because they're so attuned to you, they can be quick studies and easy to train.Bear in mind: Their sensitivity means it's easy to do damage to these dogs. Yelling, striking, or otherwise harshly treating these extra sensitive creatures can result in fearful, shy, and nervous behavior. They also don't do well in environments that are noisy and chaotic, and they may withdraw to protect themselves. Examples of highly sensitive breeds: some Pit Bull terriers, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds, most toy breeds.

Happy-go-lucky
These are the guys who roll with the punches. Thick-skinned and generally easygoing, these dogs can tolerate more than most and bounce back from rough situations. They're generally good for novice owners because you can make mistakes and they won't hold it against you. They also do fine in active, bustling, loud households, which is why these dogs tend to make good family dogs. That said, they need gentle, sensitive direction just as all dogs do.

Training strategy:
Your direction needs to be straightforward, obvious, and you will most definitely need to repeat yourself in the course of training these dogs. Boundaries need to be set and regularly enforced before they're well understood.Bear in mind: Their high tolerance for excitement and change sometimes means it's hard for these dogs to switch channels and move from rambunctious to quiet behavior, for instance. They can also get more caught up in what's going on around them than in what you'd like them to do. Examples of happy-go-lucky dogs: Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Creative thinkers
They need consistency and firmness--more so than other dogs. These independent thinkers may have different ideas than you do as to what's acceptable and what's not, but that doesn't mean they're challenging you. Basically, if you're not giving clear guidance and communication, they're just more likely than other dogs to come up with their own rules.

Training strategy:
Training is one of the best ways to help these dogs see you as the leader of the pack; you practice calling the shots, your dog practices obeying. When training, give your commands in a firm, low tone of voice, not a questioning one. Be consistent in enforcing house rules and commands, and never shrug it off if your dog disobeys. Also, ask your dog to sit, lie down, or obey some other command before you do or give him anything he wants--a meal, a walk, a toy, and before walking out the door or jumping out of the car.


Bear in mind: If you aren't consistently firm with these dogs, they can try to take advantage of you and do what they want to do. But treating these dogs harshly, by rolling them over, or physically dominating them, can backfire and turn them aggressive, even hostile, to humans. Examples of alpha dogs: Your dog's behavior, not breed, is the best indicator of whether thinks he's the boss.

(photo can be found at http://www.flickr.com/photos/73991847@N00/3549850869/, article can be found in its original format at http://dogtime.com/training-by-personality.html)

The Home Health Check for Aging Dogs

You can play an important role in keeping your dog healthy and happy as he ages. Giving him routine health checkups at home will help you identify any changes that could signal problems sooner rather than later.

Here are five basic areas that you should examine:

1. Weight check
If your dog is overweight, switch to a dog food that is specially formulated for less active or overweight adult dogs. These foods--such as PEDIGREE® Weight Maintenance Formula for Dogs and PEDIGREE® Lean TRADITIONAL GROUND DINNER®--tend to have fewer calories are low in fat, but are still filling, so your dog feels satisfied. As long as he's not limited physically, try and increase the amount of exercise you give your dog. This will help burn off that extra fat and distract him from excess snacking.

Since many older dogs experience a decrease in their sense of taste and smell, the food that they once loved no longer has the same appeal. They may also be experiencing dental pain that makes chewing hard food painful. Either one of these scenarios could be keeping your dog below a normal weight. Try warming up soft food to bring out its flavor and aroma. If hard kibble is the problem, you can soften it by mixing it with wet food or by adding low-salt beef or chicken broth.

If you notice that your dog has lost weight, visit your vet immediately. It could be a sign of illness or disease.

2. Coat and skin
A dog that is well-groomed has a better chance of keeping away enemies like fleas, dampness, and cold. It's especially important with older dogs, since aging coats and skin aren't always able to take care of themselves like they used to.

Check for the signs of fleas, such as black flakes or specks, at the base of the tail, on the rump, and on the stomach. Fleas can be treated with special spot-on treatments and other medications.

A dull or matted coat may signify that your dog isn't getting the nutrients he needs, or that he may have a disease condition.

In addition to keeping your dog's coat and skin healthy, incorporating a grooming session into your daily routine will help maintain that special bond through physical contact-and when your dog feels loved, it's reflected in his overall sense of well-being.

3. Eyes and ears
People aren't the only ones who have problems with eyesight and hearing when they get older. It's also normal for dogs to experience hearing loss and reduced vision as a result of age. While you really can't do much to prevent it, there are things you can do to ensure the optimum health of your dog's ears and eyes.

Ears: Keep your dog's ears as clean and dry as possible to avoid ear infection. You'll know there's an infection if you notice bad odors or discharge coming from an ear, scratching or rubbing of the ears, or shaking the head. Older dogs don't have the strong immune system they once had, so any indication of infection should be treated right away.

Eyes: With age, some dogs' eyes will start to get cloudy and vision may decrease. While a certain amount of cloudiness is normal, be on the lookout for the whitish appearance of cataracts, which can lead to blindness. You can test your dog's vision by tossing him a treat and seeing if he can catch it. If your dog does have impaired vision, try to leave the furniture in the same place. That way, he won't hurt himself if he stumbles into something that wasn't there yesterday.

4. Teeth and gums
Studies have shown that 85% of dogs over the age of four suffer from dental problems, so you'll want to closely monitor your dog's teeth to prevent discomfort and/or disease. Lift your dog's lips away from his gums, and press a finger firmly over an upper tooth. When taken away, the white color of the finger imprint on the gum should always return to pink.

Be on the lookout for yellow or dark-brown tartar buildup on the teeth, which can lead to periodontal disease, making chewing difficult and painful. If you find tartar, it will need to be removed by your veterinarian. Along with getting your vet to check your dog's teeth on a regular basis, you should be implementing your own brushing routine at home. Specially designed pet toothbrushes and toothpaste are available to help reduce the buildup of harmful plaque.

5. Spot checks
Check for unusual lumps or bumps by placing both hands on top of your dog's head and moving them down under the chin. Next, move your hand behind the front legs, under the shoulders, down the back, over the hips, and down the legs. Inspect your dog's claws and foot pads for cuts or cracks. If you come across anything that seems unusual, report it to your veterinarian immediately.

(2009 Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Original content can be found at http://dogtime.com/home-health-check-for-aging-dogs.html)

Exercise for Fun and Health for Your Dog

Regular exercise is essential for all dogs. It can also be a lot of fun. Here's a guide to keeping your dog fit through exercise and play.

All dogs need, and usually love, their daily exercise. The amount your dog needs will depend not only on his size, but also on his breed. Bear in mind that some smaller breeds can have lots of energy, whereas some larger breeds are not always as energetic.

Whenever you are near a road, or wherever your dog is likely to cause a nuisance if he runs free, keep him on a leash. Remember that not everyone is as fond of dogs as you are, and you must respect their feelings. Keep your dog under control at all times. Part of your walk should take your dog over hard ground, as this will help keep his nails short.

Exercise for puppies
Don't make the mistake of over-exercising your dog if he's still growing, because his bones aren't yet strong enough to cope with the extra stress this puts on him. Little and often is the rule until your dog grows to full strength. Remember that large breeds mature later than small breeds. Ask the breeder or your vet for their advice. Regular and varied walks give your dog the chance to explore and to experience new stimuli, including meeting other dogs. This will help him develop into a contented and well-adjusted dog, without developing problem behavior.

Supervision
Make sure you supervise all your dog's exercise. Don't allow him to stray, and never put him outside for the day to fend for himself. Remember that a good walk or run every day will keep your dog, and probably you, in good shape. Medical and veterinary experts have observed that fat dogs often have overweight owners!

Playing
Playing with your dog helps build the relationship. Be careful that you don't encourage your dog to play roughly. If you give permission for him to behave in this way, he may act roughly with people he encounters later on who may not appreciate it. In order to maintain discipline, you must be the leader of the "pack," deciding when games start and finish.

Don't play with sticks; your dog could get a splinter or damage his mouth. Don't play with stones, either, because they may end up in your dog's stomach! If you are going to the park for some fun and exercise, take along a couple of your dog's favorite toys. Playing usually requires two participants, but with some toys, your dog can play alone. He should play with toys made from firm, elastic materials that aren't dangerous to him.

Non-toxic, durable chewy toys are great for chewing and he'll have lots of fun trying to break them. Other toys can be filled with treats, allowing your dog to stimulate his mind through play. These are also great for relieving your dog's boredom if he's alone for a period of time each day.

Exercise for senior dogs
As your dog ages into a senior dog, he will tire more easily. His joints may stiffen and he'll become more susceptible muscular aches and pains. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available that your veterinarian can prescribeto improve your dog's mobility.
Older dogs often have deteriorating eyesight, and their other senses may also be impaired. They can easily become disoriented and lost if they get separated from their owner. So don't let your dog get too far away from you when you're out for exercise.

Although he may be less active, it's still good for your senior dog to maintain a moderate level of exercise. This helps to improve his circulation, keep his joints moving, and ensure he receives plenty of fresh air. It also gives him enough chances to relieve himself, avoiding accidents in the house. Take your dog for shorter, more frequent walks, but never force him to go beyond his capabilities. If the weather is wet, make sure you thoroughly dry him off when you get home. If the ground is icy or if there is salt or grit on the roads, make sure his paws are washed and dried well to avoid irritation that can lead to sores and infections. When the weather is extremely hot or cold, do not take your senior dog out for walks. His body may not be able to cope. Wait until conditions are more comfortable.

Exercising is one of the most fun parts of owning a dog. Play can keep your dog fit and mentally stimulated. Help to keep your dog fit and active and he'll be playing well into his twilight years.

© 2009 Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Dog Safety When Nature Gets Nasty

Few things in life are more pleasurable than taking a stroll with your dog on a beautiful day. The sun is shining, the wind is refreshing, and the cloudless sky is a deep blue. If only nature were always that welcoming and fair. But nature has ways of reminding us that we are not always in charge. However, we can predict and plan for many of nature’s turnarounds, so it’s up to us as dog lovers to help prepare our pets for those events.

Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are the most common way that nature has to rattle a dog’s nerves. In fact, your dog may become agitated even before you realize that a storm is approaching. That’s because, with their keen ears, canines can hear at much higher and lower frequencies than we do. So they can hear a faraway rumble of thunder that you might miss. In addition, a dog's sensitive nose can detect odors much better than yours. Since lightning ionizes air with the formation of ozone—which has a characteristic metallic smell—it's possible that dogs detect this odor, or some other odor, associated with the storm.

If your dog becomes agitated before the storm arrives, imagine how he feels—with his ultra-sensitive ears—when the thunder starts pounding on your home. As tempted as you might be to pick up your dog or coddle him when the rumbling gets loud, it's better to distract him. Using a happy, upbeat tone of voice, talk to your dog and invite him to play with you. Keep some treats or rewards on hand to reward him for focusing on the games.

You should also create a "safe place" for your dog to hide out during the storm. Whether it's a crate with a soft pillow inside or a bed to hide under, it should be a comfortable place far away from any windows where the noise is loudest. If your dog's thunder phobia is more severe, consult your veterinarian. He may recommend medication or a specific behavioral program to help alleviate your dog's fears.

Earthquakes
There are many reasons why earthquakes are so feared: they can be fierce, sudden, and leave a wake of long-term destruction. If you live in a quake-prone region, make sure you have on hand an adequate supply of fresh water, dog food, and any medications your dog may need. If you haven’t already done so, identify the safest and strongest place in your home where you and your dog can take shelter. If your dog is crate-trained, he may be a little more comfortable in his crate when the earth starts rumbling.

Because earthquakes can destroy walls and fences, dogs have been known to escape their homes and begin wandering. That’s just one more good reason to make sure your dog has proper identification, such as a collar and tag and an implanted microchip.

If you try to leave an area after an earthquake, remember that power lines may have become loose. If the power is still flowing, this could cause an extremely serious hazard if you dog comes into contact with the stray electricity. And keep this in mind: powerful aftershocks can cause more rounds of damage. So, if possible, wait for help to come while you and your dog remain in the most secure part of your home.

Floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes
Unlike earthquakes, which are sudden, there is usually some warning given when floods, hurricanes, and twisters are imminent. That gives you the opportunity to prepare for an evacuation. But, sometimes, evacuation isn’t possible.

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, it became common to see news footage of pets and people clinging to the roofs of homes surrounded by rising floodwater. That was, thankfully, an extreme and rare case. But even less severe floods can create life-threatening situations. The better you prepare, the better the chance your pet will come through it okay.

And if you live in a flood- or twister-prone area, you can prepare right now by creating an “evacuation kit.” In an easy-to-carry waterproof bag or duffle, place some of your dog’s favorite food and treats, a bottle of fresh water, some of his toys, a supply of his medicine, copies of his medical/vaccination records, a recent photo of your dog, and—if your dog has had a microchip implanted under his skin—a copy of the identification number. If your dog is small enough to fit in a portable carrier, keep this in a handy place.

News reports can keep you apprised of the severity of an impending hurricane or flood, so keep your TV or radio tuned to the local news. And if evacuation is imminent, don’t waste time—take your dog and your evacuation kit to a safer area.

If you are not able to evacuate a flood in time, bring your dog, your evacuation kit, and clean bedding to the highest part of your home. Keep a battery-operated radio (and plenty of batteries) and your cell phone by your side. Try your best to keep your dog calm and ration food and water if it appears that it might be awhile before help arrives.

Tornadoes can strike more suddenly than hurricanes or floods, but their impact—though severe—is usually restricted to a smaller area. That’s no consolation if your home happens to be in the path of a raging funnel cloud.

If tornado sirens go off and you cannot make a safe evacuation, take your dog and your evacuation kit to the safest room of your home. This is usually a basement or an interior room or bathroom. If you plan to use your basement as a tornado shelter, bring your dog there when the weather is fair. Help him feel comfortable in this unaccustomed environment by playing with him. You can even leave some of his bedding in the basement shelter so he’ll feel at home there if a tornado strikes. During a fierce storm, the calmer you are, the calmer your dog could be. And vice versa.

(photo courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/4paw/2060333687/, content courtesy of pedigree.com)

ATTENTION! Seargant Dog....

Moving with Your Large Dog Made Easy

With career changes, family situations and the need for more or less living space, most of us will move at least once during our lifetime. To a human, a new home can be exciting and adventurous. But did you know that sometimes your dog can find the same move to be devastating?

Avoid the Doggy Drama

While some dogs adjust quickly to a change in scenery, others can resent the slightest difference, which is why uprooting your dog from the familiar surroundings he's called home can be confusing, frightening and traumatic. Your dog can find himself disoriented and stressed at the hustle and bustle of the move, as well as overwhelmed and overloaded by all the unfamiliar sights and smells of your new home. That's why it's good to be prepared at every stage of your move.

Know Your New Home

After you've made the decision to move to your new location, make sure you do some research about your neighborhood. Are there any requirements or restrictions regarding pet ownership? Also, be sure that your new home is ready to house your pet. Go over the backyard and make sure that everything is in order. Make sure your fencing is secure and that toxic lawn chemicals are out of reach of your canine companion. Also, take note of the weather. A different climate could create a need for new pet products.

Driving With Your Dog

If you're driving to your new home, we suggest driving with your dog the day of the move. Many dogs find car travel extremely distressing and some may even get carsick, so be prepared to make many stops along the way. Before you leave create a pet pack with everything your dog might need on the trip – medications, a favorite toy, fresh water, food, treats and an old T-shirt with your scent on it so he has some familiar scents to take with him to his new home. Plus, don't forget a leash for when you make rest stops. And, even if your dog doesn't typically get carsick it's better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you also pack paper towels and plenty of plastic bags.

Flying With Your Dog

Not all moves are able to be done by car, so if you have to fly to your new destination, make sure you have everything you need to get your furry family member there safe and sound, including a recent health certificate by your veterinarian and a pet carrier that complies with your airline regulations. Before the flight be sure you take your dog for a long walk and don't feed him too much. And most importantly, try not to sedate your dog for the trip unless it's absolutely necessary.

Settling In

When you finally make it to your new home, spend some time playing with your dog and reassure him that everything is OK. Before you unpack, remember to remove the old ID tag from your dog's collar and securely replace it with the new one. Then allow him to explore and familiarize himself with the new sights and smells. While you're unpacking, try not to disturb your dog's new area. Having a secure place to go to is important for your dog in an unfamiliar place.

When time allows take your dog out for a walk around the new neighborhood. Make sure you give him time to explore everything and get familiar with his new home. Moving is always a stressful time, for both you and your dog, but with the proper planning and a little bit of patience you can help your loyal companion make the trip and adjust to his new home in no time.

TOO many sore and injured legs

(This commentary is courtesy of Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM)

I have been seeing what seems to be far MOREjoint injuries. More specifically Anterior Cruciate Injuries.

This is the main ligament which supplies support to the knee. It can be injured during exercise, such as a misplaced knee- or if the knee is overextended. I was recently asked WHY?

Meaning why are there so many more ACL injuries than what was occurring 20 years ago?

Good question.

1. Conformation - There is the discussion around genetics. Some believe that the conformation of many dogs (and a few cats)with straight knees, makes the knee prone to injury.

2. Types of play - Sudden stops and starts - such as repeatedly throwing a ball put more force on the knee- increasing the chance of injury.

3. Weak Ligaments - I do see MORE ACL injuries from certain litters- SOMETHING is making the ligaments weaker and more prone to injury. Some of the suspected culprits are what I have OFTEN talked about.

4. Conventional Medication - Prednisone is a classic example of a medication that will weaken the ligaments.

5. Vaccines - IF there is an auto-immune basis to joint damage, vaccines will be at the top of the list. It's NO surprise that the increase in Cruciate Injuries correlates with increasing number of vaccines.

6. Diet - yup the BIG one. First obesity plays a big role. IF your pet is overweight, they are FAR more likely to injure their knee. Then the unknown is WHAT else is missing in dog and cat diets to weaken the ligaments. The farm dogs of 50 years ago had few injured knees. And their diet consisted of fresh meat, some carbs, and fruit and vegetables.

NO kibble. Clearly there are NUTRIENTS missing which are KEY to keeping the joints strong and healthy.

Which is why it is imperative that your dog be eating a HIGH QUALITY dog food.

HSUS Checking: A New Way to Make a Difference

Now having a checking account can make a difference. Open a new HSUS Bank of America checking account and celebrate your love of animals with every purchase you make using your HSUS Bank of America VISA® Check Card.*

"This is a great way to support the work of The Humane Society of the United States. When you open your account, and each time you make an eligible purchase with your Bank of America VISA check card, you'll support our mission to combat animal cruelty and care for animals in need," says Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The HSUS."**

HSUS VISA check card
So now you really can make every purchase matter whether it is groceries, gas, home electronics, toys, pet food, airline tickets, or even that well-deserved latte.

Learn more here http://www.hsus.org/shop/hsus_checking_a_new_way_to.html

*You will receive a VISA Platinum Check Card when you open your account.

**Bank of America will pay The HSUS for each new checking account and every year on the anniversary of enrollment, as well as .10% on eligible net purchases with your HSUS VISA Check Card, at no additional cost to you.

Have Fun By Teaching Your Dog To Become A Messenger

In World Wars I and II dogs were often used to deliver messages over long distances through enemy lines. They started their training in easier surroundings, however, and that's how you can train your dog to make special deliveries.

For this game you need two people and one dog who likes both of you well enough to search you out. Your dog will be a messenger and deliver secret messages (or dog treats) from one of you to the other. You can go all the way and make a secret pouch in his collar for him to hold the goods, or if he likes to retrieve, you can have him carry a pouch in his mouth.

Let your dog see you place the message or treat in the pouch. This will become a signal to him that the game is about to begin. Then hold him by the collar while your friend starts to run away. Tell your dog "special delivery!" and release him, just as your friend begins to call him. When he catches up your friend should praise him, take the pouch from his collar and give him a treat.

Now the friend places a new prize in the collar and you begin to run away. Your friend directs the dog "special delivery!" and encourages him to run after you. When he reaches you, remove the pouch and praise and reward him.

Gradually increase the distance, even until the target person disappears around a corner or goes out of sight before the other person releases the dog. Most dogs can turn the corner and find their person, but returning to the original person - now sight unseen around the corner - can be the first stumbling block for many dogs . Your dog may need to be taken to the corner and sent to his target person once he sees her.

One corner is all many dogs can manage. But some dogs are natural born messengers, and you can challenge them with increasing distances and varied terrain. To work over long distances, the target person should remain stationary while the other person walks the dog far away before releasing him. That person may need to run alongside the dog back to the target person at first.

As the dog gains confidence he should gradually be able to find his way on his own. Again, once he reaches the target person, that person praises, rewards and sends him back to the original person. Now you have a dog who can run back and forth along a path and deliver messages from one person to the other. But you can make it harder.
(You can find more tips like this at dogproblems.com)

Teaching Your Dog How to Swim

When you stop to think about it, you typically associate dogs as being strong swimmers.

However, what do you do if your dog is scared of the water?

Trainer Adam G. Katz (of DogProblems.com) offers his advice:

I started getting in the pool and making the dog be with me in the pool. He'd immediately want to turn around and swim back to the steps and get out of the pool and run and hide. I didn't let him. I would bring him into deeper water and hold him in my arms. The whole time, he'd be trying to swim away, and even scratching. No problem. Just keep holding him. He's basically running in place. Just stand there and hold him and let him expel the energy, until he stops swimming and you're just holding him in place. He'll still be petrified.
That's okay.

Do this four or five times, and pretty soon the dog will not fight so much and learn to relax in your arms. Start walking with him in your arms around the pool.

Next, teach him to get in the pool and stay in the pool until you give him the release command. Just let him stand on the first step. After a couple of times, leave him on the first or second step while you sit in the shade or play in the pool, but do not let him get out. Very quickly, he will acclimate and being in the water will start feeling nice. Make him get out of the pool and go back in, until it stops being a big deal.

The final step is to introduce a toy. Start using his play drive and toss the toy in the pool and encourage him to get it. After the first or second time, he'll be hooked.

(photo courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/81124164@N00/3617092913/)

How Many Dog Cookies Should You Feed Your Dog, Each Day?

This is always a topic that comes up amongst dog-owners.

Watch one dog specialists response here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh0TJ_wtUCk

South Korea Hopes to End Dog Eating

by Michael Martinez on Monday September 07, 2009

It never made sense to me how people could eat a dog, but I always figured it was a cultural thing - something done in other countries that we simply could never understand.

But there's a man in South Korea who's trying to buck the norm in a country where the practice of eating dog meat is considered the cuisine of the affluent.

Every weekend in Seoul, Lee Won-bok visits pedestrian malls and arranges graphic photos of dogs being hanged and butchered as they're prepared for market. He asks people to sign a petition that he can take to legislators to make sure they'll enforce national laws prohibiting the consumption of dog meat. For the most part, officials ignore the laws.

"People don't comprehend the suffering these dogs endure," Lee said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. "They may vaguely realize that people still eat dogs. But they need to know what happens to the animals."

His campaign is gaining strength. As South Koreans have gradually embraced Western culture, more citizens have become dog owners and are choosing to oppose the practice of eating dog meat.

"Dog eating in Korea is not going to end in one day or one year," Lee said. "But it's only a matter of time."

The sooner the better.

(original article can be found at http://blogs.dogtime.com/the-news-hound-blog/2009/09/south-korean-hopes-to-end-dog-eating)

"Come!" The Most Important Command to Teach Your Dog

There are many important commands to teach your dog, such as "Sit!" and "Stay!" However, many dog owners consider "Come!" to be at the top of the list. Why? Because in some instances "Come!" is the primary way you will get your dog’s attention if he is running or playing. It’s easier to get your dog to stay or sit when they are back by your side. To accomplish that task, they need to know the "Come!" command.

The "Come!" command helps make you the pack leader
Dogs are accustomed to living in packs with other dogs, so a strict hierarchy is completely normal to them. If you treat your dog as a partner with equal rights, you may give him too much freedom. That will only confuse him, because a dog needs clear rules. There must be a leader of the pack—and it's the leader who calls the dog to "Come!"

Teaching the command
Begin training your dog indoors. First of all, it's important that your dog reacts to you and comes when you call him. Always use the command "Come!" coupled with his name. After you have called him once or twice, he will probably come running to you. Praise him lavishly, or even spoil him with a little treat.

Sometimes your dog may have something more important on his agenda than coming to you. If he doesn't come to you after you've called him twice, get him and walk him to the spot where you where when you called him. Praise him continuously while walking and when you arrive at the "call spot." Repeat the exercise right away.

If you are outside in your yard and you call him and nothing happens, you may start a wild chase if you try to get him. Your dog—especially if he's a playful puppy—may consider this a wonderful game. This will not make for a successful training session, though, which means you have to use another method outdoors. If your dog doesn't come to you when you call, just turn around and go away. In most cases, he'll come running after you.

If your dog already knows "Sit!" "Stay!" and other commands...
Give your dog the "Sit!" (or "Down!") and "Stay!" command. Take five steps back, whistle, say your dog's name and "Come!" in an excited tone of voice. You can also open your arms to encourage him. When he obeys, praise and reward him. Repeat the command (taking only five steps back) ten times. Then, once he has this mastered, increase the distance to ten steps. Never call your dog to scold him or to do anything that he won't like. Responding to "Come!" should always be a positive experience for your dog—and, because your best friend is there by your side, for you, too.



(content courtesy of pedigree.com; photo courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/ex_magician/3616914738/)

Sometimes a Picture REALLY is Worth a Thousand Words...

Amazing Story - Dog Saves Child

Animals do amaze me often- and in these oh so cynical times, it's refreshing to hear positive animal stories.

A stray dog who got a helping hand from a Canadian family more than repaid the favor when he saved the family's 2-year-old son in the Yukon wilderness.

The British Columbia family, whose name was withheld at their request, took the yellow dog under their wing after encountering him on their trek through the bush. The scruffy-looking mongrel had porcupine quills sticking out of his snout, and the family tried to help him by pulling some out, The Globe and Mail newspaper reported.

Last Thursday, as the parents were setting up a trailer in the evening, their 2-year-old son, Kale, disappeared wearing only a T-shirt. News of a missing boy triggered a full-scale search involving rescue professionals and many local volunteers.

Rescue parties located Kale more than 24 hours after he vanished. With him was the stray dog, who had kept the little boy warm by cuddling with him during the damp, cool night and protected him in the bear-infested woods. "The night was cold and wet and the terrain in the area is rough ...Most adults wouldn't make it through the night before succumbing to hypothermia, let alone a 2-year-old child," Michael Pealow, a member of the Whitehorse District Search and Rescue Society team, wrote in a blog post, according to The Globe and Mail.

"A bear could have got him. Anything could have happened," Mike Bondarchuk, a volunteer who helped search for Kale, told the newspaper. "What we do know is the dog stuck with him, all night and all the next day."

The dog's owner heard the whole story and came forward. Kim Dolan instantly recognized the canine hero as her dog, Koda, who had been missing for about a week. She said she had adopted Koda several months earlier after the dog was abandoned in Ross River, British Columbia.

"He's a total mutt. A total kid dog ... he just wants to be loved," Dolan told The Globe and Mail.

Although she said it was hard to do, Dolan decided to give Koda to Kale's family."He was meant to be there at that time," she said. "It was tough to give him away. I was in tears ... but it was the right thing to do."

Interesting Video - Dog Toys To Avoid (Crummy Dog Toy Reviewed, Part ll)

Watch here -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nwdyxl6qA18

Bathing Your Puppy

First: talk to your veterinarian about your puppy and how often he will need to be bathed. Each puppy is different — your puppy's breed and lifestyle determines how often he needs a bath. If your puppy spends a lot of time playing outdoors, he may need a bath more often than a puppy who spends most of his time indoors. But remember, bathing your puppy too often will remove necessary oils from his coat.

Preparing the bath
Get everything you need for your puppy's bath together and at arm's reach. You want to be very organized so you are not searching for shampoo while at the same time trying to keep your puppy in his bath.

Depending on your puppy's size you may choose to bathe him in the bathtub, in a utility tub or in the sink. A non-slip mat on the bottom of the sink or tub will keep your puppy from slipping around while in the bath and he will feel more at ease. Do you want to give your puppy a shower or a bath? If you decide to give your puppy a shower you will need a spray nozzle attached to your faucet. If you decide to give your puppy a bath fill the sink or tub with water that will reach your puppy's knees when he is in the bath. The water temperature should be lukewarm, about his temperature — not too cold or too hot.

Thoroughly brush your puppy's coat. This is very important. If there are any mats or tangles the water will make them worse and they may then need to be cut out. To protect your puppy's eyes from soaps or chemicals that may irritate him put a drop of mineral oil in each eye — you only need a drop.

The bath
Lift your puppy into the bath. If you are showering your puppy turn the spray nozzle on with one hand, while holding your puppy in place with the other hand. Test the water to make sure it is not too hot or too cold and slowly direct the nozzle at your puppy's coat. The spray nozzle should be held very close to your puppy's coat so he is not frightened and his coat should be made thoroughly wet. Never spray water directly into your puppy's face. If you are bathing your puppy begin ladling the bath water over his coat with one hand, and hold your puppy in place with your other hand.

When his coat is thoroughly wet you can start applying a dog shampoo. Gently work the shampoo through his coat. Don't forget to shampoo his stomach, under his tail, between his toes and under his neck. Use a sponge to gently wash your puppy's face, being careful not to get soap in his eyes or mouth. A soft brush is useful to clean your puppy's paws and between his toes.

Once your puppy is thoroughly shampooed you can begin to rinse the shampoo from him. Remember to check the temperature of the water again when you begin rinsing. It's important that the shampoo is thoroughly rinsed as any residue may cause an irritation to your puppy's skin. It's a good idea to rinse twice. If you bathed your puppy instead of showering him drain the tub water before rinsing him.

After the bath
It's important to get your puppy completely dry. Gently squeeze out any water from your puppy's coat and dry him with a few towels. Then stand back so your puppy can shake off any remaining water. If you decide to blow-dry your puppy's coat make the experience as pleasant as possible by keeping the heat very low and never direct the air into your puppy's face. If you decide to let your puppy's coat dry without the aid of a blow dryer keep him away from any drafts until he is thoroughly dried. Don’t forget to dry your puppy's ears well. Wet ears are perfect for bacterial growth.

A few more tips

•If the weather is cold never wash your puppy outside, and keep him inside while he is drying.

•Always use a shampoo made for dogs because the pH level of their skin is different from that of humans, and human shampoo is harsher.

•Don't forget to rinse and dry your puppy's feet and between his toes. If shampoo is not rinsed properly his feet may be irritated.

•Your attitude plays a big part in how your puppy reacts to his bath. If he senses that you dislike giving him a bath he will dislike taking one.

Remember that every puppy is different. Your veterinarian can advise you on how often your puppy should be bathed. Bathing your puppy too often is not good for him.

Essential Nutrients Your Dog NEEDS

Certain nutrients are required by the dog's body for energy, growth and maintenance.

1. Water makes up 60 to 70 percent of a dog's body weight and is essential to life. As little as a 15 percent loss can result in death. Food can supply a small portion of your dog's water requirements. Dry dog food is approximately 10 percent water and canned food may contain up to 85 percent. Dogs should have clean, fresh water available to them at all times.

2. Proteins are the basic building materials for the body and are essential to growth, maintenance, reproduction, and repair. They are composed of two groups of amino acids. Essential amino acids can't be produced in sufficient amounts by the body and must be consumed in food. They are arginine, methionine, histidine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, threonine, leucine, tryptophan, lysine, and valine. Non-essential amino acids can be synthesized in the dog's body and are not necessary in the diet. Meat, fish, and eggs provide the complete array of essential amino acids. Vegetables, cereals, and soy also contain protein but not all of the essential amino acids. Raw egg white should not be fed to dogs as it contains avidin, an anti-vitamin, which binds biotin from egg yolk.

3. There are no established guidelines for carbohydrates in the canine diet, but studies suggest that carbohydrates and fiber are important in intestinal health and reproduction. Certain fibers help manage chronic diarrhea. The most beneficial fibers, such as beet pulp, are moderately fermentable.

4. Fats are concentrated with more than twice the food energy of proteins and carbohydrates. Essential in the production of some hormones and for absorption and utilization of fat-soluble vitamins, they also provide a cushion under the skin and insulation for internal organs. Essential fatty acids can't be synthesized in sufficient amounts in the dog's body and must be consumed in the diet. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are important for healing inflammation. The optimal ratio of omega-6 to omegs-3 fatty acids for dogs is between 5 and 10 to 1. This ratio is impossible to determine in a homemade diet. For the benefits of this ratio, a specially formulated food that guarantees this ratio is best.

5. Vitamins, in small amounts, are essential to dogs for their role in normal metabolic functioning. Most vitamins can not be synthesized in the body and must be consumed in the diet. However, if your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet, vitaminsupplements aren't necessary. Hypervitaminosis, poisoning due to excess vitamins, is more common that hypovitaminosis and can cause brittle bones, dry skin, and soft tissue calcification or joint calcification.

6. Minerals are important in the structure of bones and teeth, for maintaining fluid balance, and for their role in metabolic function.

Source: Adapted from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Humane Society Fundraising through Magazine Subscriptions

Yet another way you can help animals in your community -

Simply renew your favorite magazine subscriptions, subscribe to new magazines, or give gift subscriptions to friends, relatives, and/or business associates and save up to 85% off newsstand prices. Also 40% of your purchases will benefit The Humane Society of the United States! You can also invite your friends and family to participate in these super savings and help this charitable cause.

Learn more at this website:

http://www.magfundraising.com/GroupPage.aspx?e=1000020