Top Dog Blog!

Guilty Dog is Guilty

2012-01-31T03:32:00.007-06:00

Here's a really cute video... –Kim

Who Made this Mess?

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSygG2FnuRc

Florida Animal Rescue Act

2012-01-29T00:34:00.007-06:00

This makes sense for every state and every nation! –KimFlorida Survey Shows Animals Needlessly Killed

ATTENTION All Florida Residents: Rescue Access Law Introduced!

"Florida Animal Rescue Act, SB 818/HB 597, would make it illegal for a shelter to kill an animal when a qualified non-profit rescue organization is willing to save that animal."

A statewide survey of rescue groups across Florida State found that 63% of non-profit animal rescue groups have had at least one Florida state shelter refuse to work collaboratively with them and then turn around and kill the very animals they were willing to save. The most common reason given was shelters either having a policy of not working with rescue groups or being openly hostile to doing so.

It makes no sense to kill animals in the face of cost-effective alternatives, nor does it make sense that taxpayers are spending money to kill animals when non-profit organizations are willing and able to save them at private expense. California's "rescue access" law saves tens of thousands of animals every year at no cost to the public.

The same survey also found that 45% of respondents are afraid to complain about inhumane conditions or practices at Florida shelters, because if they did complain, they would not be allowed to rescue animals, thus allowing those inhumane conditions to continue.

In addition, 81% of rescue groups that have tried to work with more than one shelter said that different shelters have different rescue access policies, with more than half of those respondents saying that criteria for saving animals changes depending on what staff is on duty or whether staff changes. This creates inefficiency and limits the number of animals who can and should be saved.

The Florida Animal Rescue Act (FARA) would set statewide standards for rescue group access and make it illegal for a shelter to kill an animal when a qualified non-profit rescue organization is willing to save that animal. Not only will it save lives, save taxpayer money and mandate public-private partnerships, the FARA is consistent with public health and safety, and improves the public satisfaction with the job government is doing.

For more information, visit www.floridarescueact.com.

Also, see:

Food Aggression

2012-01-27T18:56:00.022-06:00

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope it helps! –Kim

Managing Food Aggression

Dogs have four basic needs: food, safety, shelter and entertainment. Of these, food plays the most vital role in ensuring a dog's survival.

Understanding this helps us understand why there are so many reasons a dog may be food aggressive. Our understanding also helps us know what steps to take to manage that behavior.

Reasons for Food Aggression

Food aggression behaviors may have begun in puppyhood. If the dog is from a large litter, he may have had to "fight" with his littermates for a place to nurse. Likewise, breeders who feed their weaned puppies from one bowl can create or intensify the need for the pups to "fight" for food.

Strays or poorly kept dogs that end up in shelters or rescues may have experienced a period of living with limited food resources. Wandering on the streets for a long time, dogs often learn to scavenge for food and perhaps fight with other strays for a meal. He may see others in the pack – including humans – as competition for food, so he learns to guard the food available. While we humans know we will not take the dog's food, a hungry dog nonetheless may perceive your presence as a threat and act aggressively with regard to food.

Another reason for food aggression may be that the dog was once starved either intentionally or through neglect. In addition, a dog fed a poor diet will likely lack the necessary nutrients he needs and may become food aggressive. His malnourished body sends signals to his brain that he is not getting suitable nutrition, and thus, he becomes overly concerned with food. There are big differences in the nutritional content supplied by various canine foods, and not every diet satisfies every dog.

Managing Food Aggressive Behavior

Before you can resolve your dog's food aggression, you must understand why your dog feels the need to act aggressively to protect his food supply. Then you can put together a plan to teach him that his food supply is not in jeopardy and that there is plenty of nutritionally satisfying food to go around. Your plans for reeducation will only work, however, once you have established your dog's respect and trust and he sees you as the authority figure within the household.

Educate yourself about dog food and change your dog's diet, if necessary. Speak to your vet about the best nutrition for your dog.

Make mealtime as relaxed as possible. Do not interfere with your dog while he's eating, and do not try to take food or other items away from him.

As the household leader, you should be the one to set the schedule and location of your dog's meals. Ignore your dog if he starts "asking" for his supper.

Don't feed your dog at the end of a dead-end room or in a corner. Make sure he is fed in an area that is open enough to prevent him from feeling threatened or trapped.

Consider scatter-feeding for your dog. Scattered food appeals to a dog's natural instinct to forage. Dogs enjoy looking for food on the ground and can literally spend hours doing so. Scatter a variety of foods – bits of raw vegetables, dog kibble, and other foods that won't attract wasps – around the yard. Try hiding a few treats, so your dog spends extra time looking for them.

Teaching your dog basic obedience skills is a great way to gain control of your dog's food aggression. Use simple commands such as "leave it," starting with items that he may like but doesn't consider that important, and gain better control of him around food by teaching him to "sit" and "wait" for a treat or his supper. Basic educational skills will also enhance your relationship with your dog, as it will further establish you as the household leader and help you earn your dog's respect.

If you need your dog to move away from food or another item, call him away from the item rather than approaching him, especially if he looks like he is guarding the food or item.

If you have more than one dog and they are fighting over food, the best solution is to feed them separately until both dogs have been re-trained.

Your trainer can provide you with specific exercises and instructions for your individual needs based on your dog's behavior and temperament.

Source: Shannon's Pet-Sitting

Also, see:

Dog Food Secrets

2012-01-24T21:09:00.001-06:00

Valuable Resource...

Urgent Press Release for Dog Owners

You're about to discover the terrifying-truth about commercial dog food that is linked to the deaths of thousands of dogs across the US every single day.

Many world-famous Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and published Dog Care Experts universally agree. Any dog that eats commercial dog food is at a much higher risk of dying prematurely. And by the time symptoms are noticeable, it's often too late to prevent an agonizing death except by lethal injection.

See their shocking, research-supported claims in this report.

Also in this report, I show you a simple solution proven to increase the lifespan of your dog by up to 134% and save you up to $10,000.

To discover these amazing secrets, just continue reading and your reward is a super-healthy, incredibly happy dog that stays by-your-side for up to 8.3 years longer than statistically predicted.

Let's continue with this critical information...

"Commercial Dog Food is Killing Your Dog;
Hear What the Experts Have to Say..."

Continued - Click for more vital information....

Old Pets FORCED to Get Vaccines

2012-01-15T12:42:00.027-06:00

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim

Old Pets FORCED to Get Vaccines
By Dr. Andrew Jones
November 3, 2010

Some boarding kennels STILL require ALL dogs and cats to be current on EVERY vaccine to be allowed into a the kennel...

...meaning the older, decrepit 14 year old pet with heart disease and failing kidneys can also get blasted with vaccine antigen.

I sure would not advise this to ANY older pet.

The multiple vaccines could make your older pet REALLY ill. Many dogs and cats after vaccines will be lethargic, not eating or drinking for 24-48 hours. IF this were to happen with an older pet with compromised kidneys, it could be the LAST straw and send them into Kidney failure.

My advice...

DON'T do this to your own dog or cat.

The risks of your older pet spreading infectious diseases to other animals is virtually ZERO.

Talk to the Kennel owner about newer vaccine regimens – if they are able to talk to your Veterinarian (assuming they agree with this idea), then likely the kennel will comply.

I am now finding that most of my local kennels are fine with a signed letter stating that these dogs and cats are not at risk for spreading any infectious disease.

The one vaccine we still give to older dogs is Intranasal Bordetella, which fortunately has few side effects.

MORE importantly, the POINT of the vaccines was to PREVENT disease. I suggest that most SENIOR pets would be better off with supplements to boost their immune system, and ultimately PREVENT disease.

What to use?

Essential Fatty Acids.

Antioxidants, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Selenium, MSM.

Immune stimulating components, such as Colostrum and Aloe.

You can get a variety of dog and cat supplements with some of these ingredients. OR you can use my Complete Canine and Feline supplements.

These are the supplements I am feeding to my newly acquired older pets, Gussie and Jessie, who have responded wonderfully to them.

Best Wishes,

Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM

Source: http://www.theinternetpetvet.com/old-pets-forced-to-get-vaccines/?af=981818

Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM has been a practicing Veterinarian for almost 20 years. He is a strong advocate of Natural Pet Health Care, and knows that the most important way to heal our pets and prevent disease is through proper nutrition. He developed Ultimate Canine to give our dogs that extra advantage – something that will provide them with everything they need to develop stronger immune systems to fight disease, heal sore or stiff joints, and help them live longer, happier lives. Dr. Andrew Jones' main focus is on alternative, non-traditional remedies for pets. His interest in alternative pet medicine culminated in the writing of his book, Veterinary Secrets Revealed.

Also, see:

Blind Dogs Make Great Pets!

2012-01-08T10:07:00.009-06:00

I know firsthand that blind dogs make GREAT pets! –Kim

Lily & Maddison

Maddison will lead and Lily will walk nearly touching her so she knows where to go. It's lovely to watch. Maddison is always looking out for her.

By Nadia Gilani
October 22, 2011

When illness forced vets to remove Great Dane Lily's eyes, the prospects of a fulfilling life didn't look good. But then no one had reckoned on her pal, Maddison, stepping in to turn guide dog.

The pair have been inseparable for years but now find themselves looking for a new home, because their owner could no longer cope.

The catch for anyone interested is that the Great Danes come as a package. They have been waiting at the Dogs Trust re-homing centre in Shrewsbury since July.

Manager Louise Campbell said: "Maddison is Lily's guide dog. If they are out and about, for the majority of the time, Maddison will lead and Lily will walk nearly touching her so she knows where to go. It's lovely to watch. Maddison is always looking out for her."

Lily, six, was barely a puppy when she was struck by a condition that caused her eyelashes to grow into her eyeballs, damaging them beyond repair.

It was after this traumatic event that her relationship with seven-year-old Maddison developed as she took her under her wing.

The best buddies lived together until their owners decided they couldn't look after them any more.

Miss Campbell said: "With her lack of sight, Lily's other senses have heightened so although we don't split them up often she can tell if Maddison is nearby. They curl up together to go to sleep and they are very vocal with each other. We haven't analysed their different barks but if Lily wants to go forward and Maddison is in her way, the bark will have a different pitch. They are very close to one another and enjoy each other's company."

Miss Campbell said that Lily does all the things normal dogs do and if you saw her from a distance you wouldn't realise she had anything wrong with her eyes.

She added: "They are really happy with life, the glass is always half full with these two. They have been with us for a considerable amount of time but they are quite happy and go about their daily routine – they are very affectionate."

She believes the dogs' size and advancing years, as well as the fact they have to come in a pair, may have put off potential owners, and she warned that anyone contemplating taking the dogs in should look at their lifestyle and think of the responsibility involved.

"They are not gigantic when you see them outside. These are two lovely big girls who deserve to live out the rest of their lives together in comfort," she said.

Dogs Trust cares for around 16,000 stray and abandoned dogs every year through a network of 17 re-homing centres.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2051780/Blind-Great-Dane-Lily-needs-home-space-HER-guide-dog-Maddison.html
© Associated Newspapers Ltd

Also see (videos):

Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for Pet Owners

2012-01-01T16:05:00.009-06:00

Here's a great New Year's article that I thought I would pass on... Happy New Year! –Kim

Top Ten Resolutions for Your Pet

Get organized. Check. Get a better job. Check. Lose weight. Check that one twice. This New Year isn't unlike any other – you've probably made resolutions that you'll struggle to keep after the first week. petMD.com suggests making a real difference in 2012 by forging a pact with your pet. These resolutions will help keep your pet happy, healthy and safe throughout the year. And well, what's more important than that?

Pet-proof your home – As you may already know, pets get into anything and everything! Keep poisons and other dangerous items in secure places, preferably in a locked cabinet or in a room that is out of the animal's reach.

Get your pet ID'd – Whether it is an ID tag or a microchip or GPS tracking device, identifying your pet and your contact information will help your chances of having your pet returned should it become lost – especially in the case of lost dogs and cats. Just remember to keep the contact information current!

Socialize your pet – Don't worry; you don't have to create a Facebook profile for them. But like children, your pet can become destructive and unmanageable when she is not given enough attention or is not allowed to socialize with other animals of her kind. Obedience training is just what your pet needs to learn some manners. And remember, it's never too late to train an animal.

Groom your pet – There is nothing worse than a stinky pet. Stay on top of her grooming routine – bathe her, brush her coat, and clip her nails. All these things will make her the envy of your block. And if you haven't noticed yet, your pet is usually happier when she is clean and pretty.

Have your pet spayed or neutered – Of course we all know spaying (and neutering) helps decrease the population of strays, but did you know many veterinarians believe it can benefit the animal's health too? Among the health benefits: a decrease in testicular cancer, prostate problems, urine marking and inter-dog (or inter-cat) aggression for males, and a decrease in mammary cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer for females.

Use preventives – Why worry about heartworms, fleas and other pesky parasites? Preventives are your pet's best line of defense against parasites and the deadly dog diseases and cat diseases they cause. Also, consult your veterinarian. Year-round use may be needed in warmer regions.

Create a maintenance checklist – Maintenance is perhaps the most dreaded of all pet resolutions. Perhaps it's the awful smells or all the cleaning involved. Whatever the reason, developing proper maintenance habits (e.g., emptying the litter box, cleaning the cage, changing the newspaper clippings) will create a clean and pleasant environment for your pet. Also, poor sanitation can lead to behavior and health issues.

Customize your pet's diet – Diets should be suited to the animal's age and size. When kept at her ideal body weight, your pet can live a longer, healthier life. She is also at a lower risk of heart disease, joint problems, and various other conditions associated with poor health.

Exercise with your pet more – Need an exercise partner? Look no further. Some dogs are satisfied with a walk around the neighborhood once a day, while others require additional exercise time. Take her to a park, to the beach or to your backyard, just make sure you have fun, too! Oh, and don't forget about your other pet(s). Just because she isn't a dog, doesn't mean she doesn't need exercise. (We're looking at you, Kitty!)

Don't postpone the annual checkup – Not only will waiting until your pet is ill lead to unnecessary suffering, complications may arise and this will make the animal's course of treatment more expensive. Keep your vet bills in check and visit the white-coated professional regularly.

View slideshow: "Top 10 New Year's Resolutions"

About petMD: petMD.com is a leading online resource focused solely on the health and well-being of pets. The site maintains the world's largest pet health library, written and approved by a network of trusted veterinarians.

Source: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petmd-suggests-top-10-new-years-resolutions-for-pet-owners-136374503.html

Clicker-training: The Highly Effective Method Used by Many Professional Dog Trainers

2011-12-30T10:15:00.001-06:00

Valuable Resource...

The 4 Secrets of Becoming a Supertrainer...

The following information may change the way you look at dog training forever.

From Morten Egtvedt & Cecilie Koeste

Dear Fellow Dog Trainer,
Did you know that there are FOUR important secrets about training dogs (or any other animals), that can make YOU capable of solving every behavior problem you will ever meet – and teach any new behavior or trick you can imagine?

Did you know that regardless of whether you have just gotten your first puppy or whether you are already an experienced dog owner or trainer – learning these secrets could change your life?

Did you know that everything you have heard about clicker training until now may be just the tip of the iceberg?

Did you know that most people using clicker training today never really unleash the full potential of this powerful technology?

Well, that is going to change for you, my friend...

...as soon as you learn the 4 Secrets of Becoming a Supertrainer.

Meet Emma. She is the kind of dog trainer who is able to solve ANY kind of dog problem. No matter what kind of dog, no matter what kind of behavior problem. Emma knows exactly how to analyze the problem, design a training plan and fix it. And dogs just love her!

Emma used to be just like most other dog owners. She believed that advanced dog training was only for experts with special talents (you know, like the "dog whisperers" on TV).

But then Emma learned about Clicker Training and the 4 Secrets of Becoming a Supertrainer. And when you know these secrets your life changes. Because now you always know where to look for solutions when you want to fix a problem, teach a new behavior or improve your training.

When YOU learn these 4 secrets you too will be ready to face ANY training challenge. And just like Emma you will be laughing at "dog whisperers" with all their superstitious explanations.

Because you will know that dog training is not magic – it's SCIENCE. And everyone can learn these scientific principles and use them effectively in their training.

So, where do I learn more about these secrets?

Click here for more information!

A Home for the Holidays

2011-12-29T17:45:00.021-06:00

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on... Happy New Year! –Kim

Airline Workers Give Grounded Pooch a Home for the Holidays

By Renee Nadeau Algarin
December 24, 2011

Continental Airlines customer service reps have opened their homes in the spirit of this season of giving to a little dog that flew cross-county with his owner only to be barred from a flight to Spain.

Jane Bossi of Wakefield, a 28-year employee, said she was boarding customers on a Madrid-bound flight Sunday as a colleague tended to a Lake Tahoe woman and her 4-month-old puppy, Whopper.

The woman paid to have the pup fly under her seat from San Francisco to Boston, but she hadn't secured a health certificate from a vet to fly the pup out of the country. Hopes of placing the pup in a pet hotel went bust since he is too young to have had all his shots.

That's when Bossi opened her home to the pooch, offering to care for Whopper until his tearful owner returned from her trip to visit family in Spain.

"You just have to reach out and follow your heart and do something nice. She was out of answers. She did not know what else to do," Bossi said.

Bossi has emailed photos of the brindle Shar Pei-Boxer mix to his owner daily.

"I'm in love with him now because he's so beautiful," Bossi said.

Whopper will not be able to tag along on a surprise trip to New Hampshire to visit Bossi's mother, but luckily Bossi's co-workers have hearts as big as hers.

"The mother in all of us just took over," said LaDonna Evans-Ampadu, a fellow customer service rep and longtime foster parent who will pick up Whopper at the airport today to bring him to her Worcester home for the holiday. She plans to use the experience to teach her two daughters about caring for a dog before they get one next year.

Bossi said she has gotten more out of the experience than she imagined.

"This puppy was almost given to me as a gift," she said. "You do things sometimes and you get more back than you ever felt you deserved."

Source: http://bostonherald.com/news/regional/view/2011_1224airline_workers_give_grounded_pooch_a_home_for_the_holidays
© Copyright the Boston Herald and Herald Media

If I Didn't Have a Dog...

2011-12-27T23:03:00.013-06:00

Here are some great quotes that I thought I would pass on...hope you can relate! –Kim

I came across this on the Web this week:

"Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened."

If I Didn't Have a Dog...
I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.
All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture and cars would be free of hair.
When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like a kennel.
When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.
I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.
I would have money and no guilt to go on a real vacation.
I would not be on a first-name basis with numerous veterinarians, as I put their yet unborn grand kids through college.
The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave him/her/it ALONE.
My house would not look like a day care center, with toys everywhere.
I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my house as outside.
I would not look strangely at people who think having ONE dog/cat ties them down too much.
I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season.
I would not have to answer the question: 'Why do you have so many animals?' from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel as they will ever get.
How EMPTY my life would be!!!

Source: http://karendecoster.com/until-one-has-loved-an-animal-part-of-their-soul-remains-unawakened.html

10 Compelling Reasons to Add a Shelter Dog to Your Life

2011-12-18T13:06:00.029-06:00

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on. Merry Christmas! –Kim

Don't Buy – ADOPT a Shelter Dog
by Julia Szabo

If you haven't already experienced the joy of dog adoption, there's no time like the present to save a K9 life, and upgrade your own in the process.

I should know: I've been adopting dogs from shelters since 1994, when I brought home my very first pit bull, a white vision of beauty named Daisy. Since then, I've adopted dozens of dogs in every imaginable color, shape, and size. Some of them I rehomed; many wound up staying with me.

Shelter dogs have taught me more lessons about life and love than I can count or recount here. This much I can tell you: There's no nicer, more unpretentious teacher than a shelter dog! Daisy was also a brilliant literary coach, motivating me to achieve every young writer's dream: placing an article in The New Yorker.

Shelter dogs also impart excellent design advice. Thanks to my adopted dogs, I was able to summon the courage to write my first book, Animal House Style: Designing a Home to Share With Your Pets. They also inspired all my other books about pets and design.

Shelter dogs are natural-born decorators; they vote with their feet, and they don't charge a fee. Plus, they are wonderful to sleep with, especially when the weather turns cold. Shelter dogs are great in bed. At my place, every night is a four-dog night!

A visit to your local animal shelter or Dogster's adoption center (powered by Petfinder.com) will get you started on the road to K9 redemption. Need incentive? Here are 10 compelling reasons to adopt a shelter dog. What are you waiting for?

10 Compelling Reasons to Add a Shelter Dog to Your Life

As the environmentally conscious recycling movement has proven, it's easy (and fun!) being green, and dog adoption is the noblest form of recycling. One person's trash (boo!) is another's treasured pet.

Every year, millions of healthy, sweet, soulful dogs are killed at animal shelters across this country just for lack of cage space; as with people, bad luck can cause good dogs to become homeless through no fault of their own. By adopting a shelter dog, you're doing your part to help end the nationwide crisis of homelessness.

With so many charismatic celebrities walking around with adopted dogs by their side — Lenny Kravitz among them — it's clear that adoption isn't just the right thing to do, it's the cool thing to do. To your adopted dog, you're the resident rock star!

You know all those people who are so proud of their honor-student kids? Well, adopted dogs are super-smart, the Mensas of muttdom. So skip the bumper sticker — flaunt stray pride with a cool collar or T-shirt. Even your coffee mug can proclaim pride for pound pups!

Don't you want somebody to love? Somebody who will actually love you back? For anyone who's ever suffered the pangs of unrequited affection — and who hasn't? — rest assured that an adopted dog will return those tender feelings tenfold. No more lonely nights!

If you've had it up to here with criticism from your nearest and dearest, get used to unconditional K9 adoration. Years of psychotherapy can't hold a candle to an adopted dog's uncomplaining, adoring presence. "Dinner's late? Again? I adore you!"

Got performance anxiety about trying out a new hobby or activity? With an adopted dog as your nonjudgmental audience or workout partner, there's nothing to fear: From exercise routines to gourmet cooking to knitting, your efforts will get an A+ even if they deserve a D!

Adopting a dog proves you're a person of great inner depth who values substance (a mystery dog of unknown parentage) over style (a predictable pedigreed purebred).

But hey, if you're a style hound, there's no more stylin' statement than a shelter dog — s/he coordinates beautifully with any outfit or style of decor!

Are you a political animal? Then reaffirm your faith in the democratic process with an adopted dog. After all, shelter mutts are the people's dog: E Pluribus Unum, one dog out of many. Uncle Sam wants YOU to adopt today!

About the Author: The author of six books, Julia Szabo writes Dogster's Living with Dogs column and is a pet expert for Howcast.com.

Source: http://dogblog.dogster.com/2011/10/03/10-compelling-reasons-to-add-a-shelter-dog-to-your-life/?v=1

Also, see:

Veterinary Secrets Revealed

2011-12-08T14:06:00.002-06:00

Valuable Resource...

You CAN Heal Your Sick Pet at Home,
Without Going to the Vet...

In Less than 24 Hours, I Can Show You How to Examine, Diagnose and Treat Your Pet at Home.

Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM

Dear fellow pet lover,
If you're not ready to make some simple changes to the way you provide veterinary care to your pet, beginning today....

...your dog or cat could be seriously ill and live a "shortened" life!

Here is How I know:

My dog died young, only 8 years old. He was a mixed breed dog, a specimen of health. He was given a ton of attention, exercised three times a day, fed only Veterinary Approved food, and given all his vaccines. He had the "ideal" life. Hoochie passed away in my arms from a massive tumor bleed at 12:02pm on April 12, 2003 – the saddest day of my life.

I asked myself... why?

I thought that he was incredibly healthy. I was sure I was doing all of the right things for him.

But I later discovered I may have contributed to his death, because I believed ONLY in conventional veterinary medicine. You see, I am a Veterinarian.

I'm Dr. Andrew Jones, and I have practiced Veterinary Medicine for over a decade. Over the past 17 years I have treated literally thousands of pets for a whole variety of problems, and I currently own the Nelson Animal Hospital in Nelson BC, Canada (http://www.nelsonvet.com/). But, my beloved dog Hoochie is gone.

You are fortunate... it's not too late for you and your pet. Just read on and find out exactly what you must do now.

Pay Close Attention

Conventional veterinary medicine may be harming your pet – and I can show you step-by-step what you must do to prevent it. "Regular" veterinary care has lost its effectiveness over the years, and in some cases is actually causing illness in our pets.

Alternative pet health care has grown over the past few years, but the truth is that Veterinarians have STRONGLY discouraged pet owners from treating their pets outside of the Vet Clinic.

The entire Pet Health Industry has a vested interest in discrediting alternative medicines which can safely, naturally and effectively allow pet owners to care for their pets at home.

STOP AND READ THIS

Lock the door, Unplug the phone, and do whatever you can to have 10 undivided minutes... Get ready to read about how you could be saving the life of your pet starting now!

"I began to notice something unusual..."

Slowly, I began to notice something unusual about Hoochie. He really just wasn't the same. He was reluctant to go for his morning dog walk, which was always the highlight of his day.

I dismissed it as him feeling a bit off, some mild stomach issue or maybe a touch of arthritis... but it didn't pass. In fact, it got worse.

I eventually did a blood test on Hoochie, thinking at that point that he had a tooth infection. However, much to my horror, I quickly found out that he had a spleen tumor.

Immediately, I performed surgery on Hoochie and removed the spleen tumor. But I was too late - the cancer had already spread to his liver, and I knew that very soon, he would die.

How did an apparently healthy
mixed breed dog die so young?

I did all the "right" things – or so I thought. After grieving, I came to realize that I had played a role in his dying at too young of an age.

I came to question exactly what I did to my own pet – and what was I doing to other people's pets.

Through my questioning, I came to realize that most Veterinarians (including me as well, at the time) are not "getting it" – that in the process of trying to heal pets through technological advances, we are actually making them sicker!

There are 3 mistakes that I made that contributed to Hoochie's early death...

...are you making these same mistakes with your own dog?

Click here to continue for more information!

Doggie Piano Solo

2011-12-06T16:37:00.005-06:00

Here's another really cute video...too cute! –Kim

Piano Dog Solo

This little guy just gives it everything he's got!

Imagine you are a singer and you accompany yourself on the piano. You have a small dog who is your constant companion and watches as you rehearse. Got the picture?

Now, imagine that you must be away for a few hours and leave the dog alone at home.

Here is what happened while you were away.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36a_mDW7FKY

Sick Puppy

2011-12-01T23:10:00.015-06:00

Awww, this is sweet! –Kim

Sick Puppy...Poor Thing!

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YC05NG-pgo

PETA Kills 86% of Animals

2011-11-24T11:32:00.030-06:00

Here's some important information that I thought I would pass on. –Kim

PETA Kills 86% of Animals in Their Care
By Dr. Andrew Jones
November 24, 2011

The animal rights group PETA is often in the news with flashy billboards, naked celebrities and pretty dramatic claims.

But now there are documented reports that PETA kills most of the animals in their care. A group called, 'PETA Kills Animals' cites figures self-reported by the animal charity showing since 1998 it euthanized more than 25,000 pets; nearly 86% of the animals in their so called 'shelter.'

In 2010, PETA managed to place only 44 of the 2,345 pets which were in their care. By comparison, a close by Virginia Beach SPCA has a tiny budget; yet it adopted MOST of the animals in their care.

PETA's 2010 revenues were more than $35 million – with that you would think they would keep most of the animals in their care alive.

P.S. The basic principle of living with integrity is to 'practice what you preach.' Clearly PETA doesn't abide by that life rule.

My suggestion is to NOT support this organization. Your time and dollars are much better spent on a local (no-kill) animal shelter, which is giving animals a second chance, and placing them in forever, loving homes.

P.P.S. Of course there are times when the 'live with integrity' principle can get you into hot water... I could still be practicing if I had compromised some beliefs. But in the long run, it's always better to do what you believe is true.

Source: http://www.theinternetpetvet.com/peta-killing-86-animals-care/
Copyright © Four Paws Online Ltd. 2011

Also, see:

Why You Should Adopt a Senior Dog

2011-11-20T10:53:00.030-06:00

Here's another great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim

Why You Should Adopt a Senior Dog
Maryann Mott

Adopting a senior dog has a lot of advantages. These golden oldies are already housebroken, obey obedience commands, and require significantly less exercise than their younger counterparts.

"There's nothing quite so wise and wonderful as an older dog," says Judith Piper, founder of Old Dog Haven in Arlington, Washington.

The rescue group has a dedicated network of foster homes that specialize in saving dogs eight years and older. Most pets usually arrive at the organization after their elderly owner dies or is no longer able to care for them.

Senior dogs are also surprisingly in demand with adopters – in part, Piper says, because what you see is what you get.

A dog's size, personality, and energy level are already known. There's no guessing what that small pup will become as an adult, and that's a big bonus for many people looking to add a pet to their household, especially if you don't want long-term ownership commitments because of expected life changes including retirement or job relocation.

Also, in today's electronic age, an increasing number of people work from home and want mellow four-footed colleagues to keep them company. Still others adopt older companions simply to get started the world of dog ownership. "It's really easier to start with an older dog that isn't as demanding as a puppy," Piper says.

Sound tempting? Before filling out an adoption application, here are a few things you should consider:

Older dogs require more potty breaks throughout the day. That means you'll need to install a pet door or indoor potty, hire a dog walker, or come home for lunch to let your pet outside to relieve him/herself.

Large dogs with arthritis don't do well in two- and three-story homes because of the stairs, and won't be able to accompany you on lengthy walks or hikes. Inexpensive arthritis formulas and pain reliefs are available, however.

As older dogs continue to age, they might lose their sight or hearing. Because of this, adoption experts say, households with toddlers (either your own or grandchildren who visit frequently) are not ideal. Young children who accidentally startle or frighten a deaf or blind dog might get bitten.

Another consideration is the high cost of veterinary care, says Jamie Pinn, executive director of H.A.R.T Senior Dog Rescue in Fillmore, Calif. For more than 20 years the nonprofit has specialized in re-homing dogs aged 7 and older. Each pet undergoes an extensive medical exam, so adopters know upfront about any potential health issues. "We feel we owe that to whoever is going to take them on," she says.

Canines at Old Dog Haven also undergo complete physical exams. Rescue groups recommend that adopters use local veterinarians with experience in treating ailing geriatric animals, who are also known for not pushing pricey medical procedures.

Adopting an older dog is an often-overlooked option but one that many rescue groups say you won't regret. These mellow canine companions will happily pay you back for giving them a home by filling your life with so much love and joy, you'll wonder why you never considered it before.

About the Author: Maryann Mott is an Arizona-based pet journalist.

Source: https://www.dogster.com/dog-adoption/adopt-a-senior-dog

Also, see:

HomeMade Dog Toys

2011-11-12T09:24:00.009-06:00

Valuable Resource...

Who Else Thinks Dog Toys are
RIDICULOUSLY EXPENSIVE?

WHY NOT $AVE BIG BUCK$ AND JUST MAKE YOUR OWN?

Save money, make your pooch happy and stop lining the pockets of pet store chains!

Save Big $$ Making Your Own Dog Toys!
Learn How to Keep It Safe!
Turn Trash into Hours of Fun!
Have Fun on a Budget!
Teach Your Kids the Value of Making Things at Home!

There is nothing like making something with your own two hands. There is a personal feeling of accomplishment, but more importantly, your canine friend will appreciate the effort.

If your dog is anything like mine, a store bought toy may get a bit of attention for a few moments, but then the toy is ignored for more personal items in the home including, but not limited to, shoes, socks, couches, or even tables depending on the dog’s size.

Everyone knows dogs love to run and chew, and this is natural for any dog. Puppies tend to teethe, and just like children, they will put anything in their mouth.

As a pet owner, you get to offer some acceptable solutions to this natural process, hopefully deterring the teething pup away from the more unacceptable items.

Nonetheless, the pup will choose something homemade over something store bought because the smell from store bought items are nowhere near as appealing as items already in the home.

Making HomeMade dog toys is COST-EFFECTIVE, imaginative, and down right fun. Almost anything in the home has the potential to be a dog toy, and believe me, your dog is well aware of this fact.

When bored, your favorite cushion sure will feel good on those teething incisors, and the smell is simply wonderful!

Those curtains hanging there sure do move nicely and make this interesting sound, and your dog will thoroughly enjoy finding out what is making that sound.

Let’s face it – your home is a cornucopia of interesting smells and sounds with everything you hold dear having the potential to be an enormous dog chew.

Instead of allowing your best friend to envision your belongings as a favorite new toy, or an adversary needing to be ripped to shreds, pet owners offer special toys to their dog. This is how a dog learns what is an acceptable opponent, and what is not so acceptable.

Making homemade pet toys is an ideal method of allowing your dog the benefit of personal scents you naturally add to the homemade item instead of the sterile or mixed scents of those store bought items.

It's Also a Great Way to Teach Your Kids the Value of a Dollar and Inspire Them Creatively!

Continued - List of toys you can easily make, plus five BONUS books....

Static Dog

2011-11-08T00:23:00.005-06:00

Here's a really cute video that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

Static Dog

Pet First Aid: Choking & CPR

2011-11-02T10:17:00.064-05:00

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...it's good to be prepared! –Kim

Pet First Aid: Choking & CPR
Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM

Recently I had an emergency call from a client who thought that her pet had stopped breathing – her pet had been chewing on something behind the couch.

This scenario has happened before...meaning, it could happen to YOUR dog or cat.

I tried to talk her through performing some rescue breaths to see if his airway was really obstructed. Then, if so, I was going to try and describe how to do the Heimlich maneuver.

This is hard on the phone, and virtually impossible to do in an emergency.

An Emergency is NOT the time to learn!

But, being in this situation sure is not the time to learn this stuff. There are a few things that you need to do first.

KNOW how to check if your dog or cat stops breathing.
PRACTICE what to do IF this ever happens.

I have done a HUGE Dog and Cat First Aid Video Presentation that shows you all of these steps in detail.

The video is here (for cats and dogs):

The signs of choking are much the same as a person: Your dog is struggling to breathe, with their mouth open. They may be pawing at their mouth. They may be attempting to vomit. You may hear an unusual sound as they attempt to breathe and pull air through a foreign object lodged in their throat.

Causes

The causes of choking are with anything that can lodge in the throat. An example would be a dog fetching a ball, and having it lodge in their throat. A variety of food objects can lodge in your dog's airway.

Solutions

CALL YOUR VET IF NEEDED. Dogs are notorious for trying to swallow things that are a little too big. The result can be choking where an object lodges in the airway.

REMOVE THE OBJECT. When time is of the essence, you must act quickly.

Open your dog's mouth.
Grasp the upper jaw with one hand over the muzzle.
Press the lips over the upper teeth with your fingers on one side and the thumb on the other so that the dog's lips are between its teeth. Firm pressure may be required. The dog then can't close its mouth without biting itself and is less able to bite you. Pull his tongue out of the way.
Reach deeply in to the back of your dog's throat and try to grasp the object. If it is a ball, and you are unable to move it, try using some type of instrument; tweezers, pliers or even a spoon shaped tong.
If this method does not work for extracting the object from your dog's throat, try this technique. Lay your dog on its side. For small pets, place your palms behind the last rib on both sides of your pet's abdomen and press your palms together quickly 2-3 times. Repeat if necessary. For larger dogs, place both hands behind the last rib and push down and slightly forward sharply. Repeat rapidly until the object is dislodged.
If you still can't remove the object and if your dog can breathe, transport him to your veterinarian. However, if your dog can't breathe you must continue to try to dislodge the object either by compression or by using the Heimlich, as your dog is unlikely to survive the delay in reaching veterinary aid.
COMPRESSIONS. Gentle compressions on both sides of the widest point of the chest may help dislodge a ball or other object. Place both hands at the back of your dog over the widest point of the chest while he is standing, and give 5 firm compressions to dislodge the ball.
HEIMLICH. If after trying to manually remove the object, and after gentle compressions it won't move, and your dog is still not breathing, then proceed with the Heimlich.
TURN your dog upside down, with his back against your chest.
WITH both arms, give sharp thrusts to the abdomen.
AFTER 5 thrusts, stop and check to see if the object is visible in the airway. If so remove it and give 2 mouth-to-nose rescue breaths. If the breaths do not go in, repeat HEIMLICH.
In some cases, your dog is too large to pick up. You can lay him on his side, and make a fist. Put your fist into the hollow beneath the rib cage, then push firmly inward and upward. Repeat 5 times, and then check to see if the object has been dislodged.
If, after a few attempts, it is still lodged, but you can still hear wheezing and some noise when your dog is breathing, then you have time to rush to your vet.
CPR. If your dog completely stops breathing, then you will have to know the CPR steps (see below).
After the airway has been opened, you may need to give artificial respiration.
CLOSE your dog's mouth and breathe directly into his nose until his chest expands. If the chest doesn't expand then go back to STEP 2 – "AIRWAY" (see CPR below).
VENTILATE at 15 breaths per minute. One BREATH every 4 seconds.
PROCEED to STEP 4 – "CIRCULATION" (see CPR below).

In some cases of choking, your pet's mouth has been injured. This means feeding a soft food for 7-14 days while the wounds heal.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

See Pet CPR Video here.

Assess Responsiveness. Before you start CPR, ensure that your pet is not still breathing, and their heart is not beating. If so, they DON'T need CPR.
AIRWAY. Establish a PATENT airway. Perform 2 rescue breaths by wrapping your hand around their muzzle and blowing into their nose. If the chest rises, then the airway is patent. If the chest DOES NOT rise, then you need to check for an OBSTRUCTION. If this is the case then you need to do the HEIMLICH. In this procedure you are holding your pet upside down, their head is pointing down and their spine is against your body. You give 5 sharp thrusts to the abdomen – you are putting force on the abdomen to help dislodge any obstruction.
ONCE you have a patent airway – you give 2 rescue breaths. When you see the chest rise and fall, and you know that the airway is open, then you proceed to Step 4 – Circulation.
CIRCULATION. In this step you are compressing the chest, and that in turn compresses the heart. This is best performed by having your pet on their right side. The heart is easiest located on the left side of the chest, behind the left armpit. For a large dog use 2 hands, For a cat use your thumb and forefinger. Compress 15 compressions – 3 compressions every 2 seconds, then follow this up with 2 rescue breath.

Continue until your pet starts breathing again or you have emergency care at a Veterinarian.

Sources: http://www.petspawsibilities.com/?p=285
http://www.theinternetpetvet.com/dog-and-cat-cpr-do-this-if-your-pet-stops-breathing/
Copyright © Four Paws Online Ltd.

Also, see:

Looking for a Natural or Holistic Veterinarian?

2011-10-30T12:35:00.024-05:00

Here's a great resource that I thought you'd find helpful. –Kim

American Holistic Veterinary Referral Search

"The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) explores and supports alternative and complementary approaches to veterinary healthcare, and is dedicated to integrating all aspects of animal wellness in a socially and environmentally responsible manner" (from the AHVMA Web site).

You can perform a simple or advanced search for natural or holistic AHVMA Vets in your area (including U.S. states, Canada and a few other countries) with the following online tool:

Visit "The AHVMA Member Referral Search"

NOTE: Very few veterinarians are willing to provide consultation by telephone. Some will consult with your local veterinarian by phone, but they cannot offer you advice without having seen your animal. If you contact a veterinarian listed in this directory, and they tell you that they cannot consult by phone, please respect their wishes.

Alternately, you may use the Ask a Vet Online option, if desired. Just be sure they use natural or holistic methods, if that's what you're seeking.

The Complete Dog Food & Nutrition Guide

2011-10-29T17:15:00.003-05:00

Valuable Resource...

Finally...All You Need
to Know about Your
Dog's Diet and Nutrition

Click below now to watch this short dog food video....

From Sharda Baker
Monday 11 May 2009

Dear fellow dog lover,
We have all heard the "horror stories" about the tainted, and sometimes toxic, dog foods on the market, AND ABOUT ALL THE DOG FOOD RECALLS.

Many of us are aware of the poor quality, sometimes useless, filler ingredients in many commercial dog foods and the dangers of many foods cooked in our homes for our dogs.

Even if you prepare your dog's food at home, there's the danger of feeding the wrong type of food.

They can rob your dog of… IT'S ENERGY, IT'S HEALTH, AND OF IT'S VERY LIFE ITSELF.

You are probably just like me, and like most responsible dog owners, just want the best for your dog within a certain budget, right?

Click Here to Start Improving Your Dog's Health Today

Alarm bells first started ringing for me regarding dog food, several years ago, after seeing the pain an acquaintance, Sonia (not her real name) went through after losing her 2 dogs, one aged eight and one six and a half. One of her dogs died of pancreatitis and one of heart failure, both of which can occur as a result of poor diet.

It wasn't really her fault though...

It's not that Sonia was a bad dog owner, she just did what many dog owners do… And what I used to do, she fed her dog a standard dog food she found in the supermarket plus some regular table scraps.

Like many of us, she didn't understand how to make sense out of a dog food label. On closer examination, the dog food she had been feeding was one of the worst ones available.Simply understanding the label would have alerted Sonia not to use that dog food. Plus, the indiscriminate feeding of table scraps also contributed to her two dog's untimely deaths.

And that was just the beginning for me.

Ever since I witnessed the pain that can be caused by losing a pet at a young age, I started looking into dog food more closely. It's been quite a journey I can tell you. We all recognize deep down that our dog's diet is paramount to good health, just as our own diet is vital to our own good health. Yet, we are often unsure, or at worst ill advised, how to best manage our dog's nutrition.

To Keep Your Dog Healthy, You Must Discover What to Look For, and How to Properly Read and Understand the Deceptive Practices in Dog Food Ingredient Labels.

This information I have put together will show you what some dog food companies don’t want you to know.

I put together the "Complete Guide To Your Dog's Nutrition" ebook and audio package over the last 11 and a half months and inside you'll find:

12 OF THE BEST dog food brands for you and… It informs you of what is actually used in each of the dog foods. And clearly tells you why each of the12 brands are some of the best to feed your dog. It also discusses in depth home cooked dog food, the BARF diet plus much more.

Would you like to know which brands of dog food and which human foods are the safest to feed your dog?

Don’t you owe it to your pet to find out?

Can't we just trust what the dog food companies tell us in their glossy multi-million dollar advertising campaigns?

Unfortunately, often we can't!

I know you are a lot like me and want to be sure you are feeding your dog the absolute best diet… and best foods, within your budget.

All dog food is not equal in their nutritional values and there are many that are downright detrimental to your pet's health.

I have put together all the research that I and my team have carried out over the last 11 and a half months on dog food and health, into one big collection.

Reserve Your Copy Today

Some of the information revealed will shock you! The books and audios cover everything that you need to know about providing the best and most nutritionally healthy diet for your dog. You will quickly start to become a dog nutrition expert… learning how to make nutritional adjustments to help most of your dog's problems or maladies.

Continued - Click for more information, plus BONUSES....

Free Pumpkin-Dog Stencils

2011-10-15T14:43:00.017-05:00

Here's a great resource that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it lots of fun! –Kim

Free Pumpkin-Carving Stencils of Favorite Dog Breeds
Better Homes & Gardens

Let your friends and neighbors know which dog breed is best by carving a pumpkin that looks like your favorite canine. Click and scroll through 26 different FREE stencils (click the right and left arrows to scroll through them all).

Vote for Your Favorite Dog Breed Stencils

Let everyone know which dog breed is best by voting for your favorite pumpkin canine.

Also, see:

Cost of Pet Ownership Adds Up

2011-10-15T02:19:00.023-05:00

Here's an informative article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Long-term Costs Add Up for Dog Ownership

By Jan Larsen for Sun-Times Media
Jun 13, 2011

The price of dog ownership varies widely according to breed, size, age and luck. Some veterinarians have estimated owners could spend $20,000 over the life of a dog.

The 2006 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association said the average annual cost of owning a dog is $2,084. (Cat owners pay about $1,318 per year.) Expenses (in dollars) include veterinary care, boarding, grooming, food, treats, toys, training, collars and leashes.

Product/Service	Low cost	High cost
Food	$125	$700
Vaccines	$100	$100
Vet bills	$40	$500
Bed	$0	$50
Treats	$0	$500
Toys	$0	$150
Flea control	$20	$200
Heartworm	$50	$100
Shampoo	$6	$25
Grooming	$0	$400
Grooming tools	$1	$25
Dental care	$0	$40
Stain cleaner	$5	$100
Boarding	$0	$500
TOTALS	$347	$3,390*

*Total over the life of a 50-pound, 12-year-old dog in the Midwest

(Editor's Note: I'm pretty sure that prices have gone even higher since the 2006 results above were released. It's something to consider when making decisions about a dog.)

Also, see: Spending on Pets Rises During Recession

A Dog's Last Will

2011-10-13T13:17:00.023-05:00

Here's a sweet post that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

A Dog's Last Will

© Laska 2008

When human beings die, they write their testament to leave their home and all they have to those they love. I'd do such, if I could write, to a poor desperate, lonely stray. I'd give him my happy home, my bowl and my cozy bed, my soft pillow and my toys, the so-loved lap, the tender stroking hand, the lovely voice, the place I had in someone's heart, the love that, at last, helped me to find a peaceful end, held firmly in a sheltering embrace. When I die, please don't say "I will never have a pet again; the loss is far too much to stand!" Choose a lonely, unloved dog and give him MY place. This is my inheritance. The love I leave behind is all I'm able to give. –Author Unknown

Also, see: Rainbow Bridge

PeeAway! Pet Urine Neutralizer, Cat & Dog Urination Deterrent

2011-10-09T02:16:00.004-05:00

Valuable Resource...

Remove Pet Odors Now!

Introducing PeeAway! The first of its kind formula recipe used to prevent pets from urinating where they are not welcome and to help eliminate smelly urine odors. PeeAway! is a simple recipe that you make yourself from ingredients commonly found around your house!

Effective Against:
Cat Urine
Dog Urine

Cat and dog urine can leave an awful smell and is difficult to remove. Fortunately there’s an easy answer to combat this embarrassing problem. The PeeAway! Formula will help remove those smells & odors caused by pet urine and works as an invisible shield to prevent further violations.

PeeAway! has been proven effective against urine odors on rugs and carpets, upholstery, clothing, closets, blankets, baseboards, wooden floors, vinyl flooring, basements, outdoor decks and kennels.

As a BONUS, PeeAway also works as an invisible shield
to prevent pet urination on the treated areas.

Benefits of using the PeeAway! formula:

Helps Neutralize Pet Urine Odors
Prevents Pet Urination in Specific Areas
It's Affordable, because You Make It Yourself
Long Lasting
Safe to Use
Easy to Apply
Proven Effective
Can be Used Indoors & Outdoors
Instant Results
It Works Like An Invisible Shield
Never Need to Buy Again!
No Shipping Fees

The PeeAway! formula recipe was invented to help prevent dogs and cats from urinating where they are not welcome and to deal with pet urine odors. The effective, long-lasting formulation works on contact to help neutralize existing odors and provides an invisible shield to the treated areas. Once the "PeeAway!" Formula is applied; your pets will avoid urinating in the protected area.

At last, a safe and effective treatment for unwanted pet urination and odors to use indoors and outdoors, AND save a fortune over commercial products!

PeeAway! Formula

Developers of the PeeAway! formula recipe have designed the ultimate pet urination deterrent that anyone can produce over and over again from readily available products in your home. Follow the easy PeeAway! Formula recipe and you will have an effective pet urination deterrent and pet urine odor neutralizer for just pennies a treatment.

Click here for more information...