Enjoying Dog Walks

Dog Walking 101: Tips to Make Your Outings Safe & Fun

It can be a job or a joy, pet parents, but we’ve all got to do it—yup, we’re talking about walking the dog! The beginning of spring is a great time to consider some ways to reinvent this daily ritual and make it more enjoyable for the both of you. Whether you’re a proud new pup parent or a long-time, experienced dog handler, our experts have got some advice for you. Who says you can’t teach an old owner new tricks?
Among the tips you’ll find in the complete article:- "Retractable leashes are best reserved for walks in the park, when it’s safe for a dog to explore a bit further away from her pet parent,” says the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center’s Kristen Collins, CPDT. NOT a good idea if you’re walking in an area with high foot traffic or off-leash dogs, as the long line may get wrapped around your dog, a person’s leg or another dog.
- Walk with buddies. If your dog likes other dogs, consider group walks. You can either borrow a friend’s dog to accompany you, or invite family and friends who have dogs to meet you somewhere.
- Even though popular spring plants like tulips and daffodils add much to our landscape, they can cause significant stomach problems for our furry friends. If your pooch likes to stop and smell—or nibble—the flowers, keep him on a short leash during walks.
Read the complete article Dog Walking 101.

Reprinted from an ASPCA newsletter

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Keep your dog safe over the holidays

It's oh so tempting to slip Fido a bite of Christmas pudding. But no! Dogs' digestive systems are not set up for our rich holiday treats. They cannot digest many of the ingredients that we take for granted, such as chocolate and nuts; and the result is often severe diarrhea. So, don't want to get up at 4am after an evening of holiday cheer? Limit your pup to treats that are intended for her.


In extreme cases chocolate can have a toxic effect on dogs, and even cause death. If Fluffy has consumed half a pound of Fannie Farmers' best, call your veterinarian's emergency number immediately. If somebody goofed and poor Fido is frozen in "the position" in the back yard, stop feeding him roughage. Fast him for 12 hours, but leave plenty of fresh, cool water around, 'cause diarrhea dehydrates a fellow. After that feed him something very bland and smooth for 24 hours, like boiled rice with a little hamburger cooked in for taste. Cottage cheese is a good adder too.


Like kids, our canine companions depend on us to keep them safe from hazardous materials that look like toys. Mistletoe, christmas lights, tinsel, wires, ornaments, poinsettas, and pine needles will all make your pup sick if she chews them. It's also best to put gifts where she can't get at them without your supervision, or crate her if she's allowed in the same room as the tree and gifts. Pet shops carry dog-safe ornaments that you can put on the bottom branches of your tree.

Meet Ericka our new Daycare Supervisor

Ericka came to us from another MA dog daycare where she only worked part time.  We're delighted to have her at The Doggie Den as a full time daycare supervisor.  The pups love her ... and she gets them to listen!!  Watch her give Peso his treat for his 6th birthday.

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Dog Daycare for Exercise!

Your dog's most important needs are good nutrition, regular exercise, and tough-love (discipline with plenty of lovin'). Today I want to talk about dogs and exercise.


It's great if you walk your dog twice a day or more, but most breeds will develop nervous habits if that's all they get. They also get fat, which leads to health problems like heart disease and arthritis. Goldens, Dobermans, Labs, Jack Russells, Shih Tzus, Lhasas, Dalmations, Scotties, Westies, Wheatons, Collies, Cockers, Bulldogs... each breed needs a different amount and kind of exercise, but don't kid yourself, they all need some!


Time after time people tell me their dog gets plenty of exercise - she can go out in the back yard anytime she wants (people with dog doors, or whose kids let the dog out). First of all, make sure she's fenced in!! Some people like invisible electric fences; I hate them with a passion. But that's for another posting. The point is PLEASE don't let your dog outside if you don't have a fenced in area for her. Even if you live in the wilds of Australia. Encounters with wildlife always go badly for somebody, and usually it's your dog. Here in New England, we live side-by-side with hungry coyotes and foxes, as soon as you get out of major metropolitan areas. Even in cities, fights with racoons (who can be very aggressive), and chasing squirrels are activities that harm pets all the time.


Even supposing your dog is safe in your yard, you really don't know what she's doing out there unless you supervise her. So, go ahead, let her out to pee if you're in a rush and there's a fenced-in area. But don't be lazy all the time! Go out with her, encourage her to do her business and praise her. Then throw a ball or a frisbee a few times, or even just play with her. That way you know she's getting the elevated heartbeat and mental stimulation she craves. A few dogs can be depended upon to play by themselves, but they're the exception. Most will come back inside as soon as they can, 'cause they're gregarious. They want to be with their pack (you and your family). Run around with her, play tug of war, whatever. Both of you, go ahead, get off that couch!


But you're exhausted when you get home at night, right? Me too!! So who wants to throw a ball for Benny (whose a ballaholic - doesn't want one throw, wants twenty). The answer is... DAYCARE!!!! Dog daycare is the best thing since sliced bread, providing that you find a place that is clean (no smells!) and has high standards around supervision, handling, and the health of each guest. The very best place if you're anywhere near central Massachusetts is The Doggie Den (www.thedoggieden.net). Our doggie guests play in large indoor areas under constant supervision all day long. We wash down both the play areas and the outdoor area where the guests do their business with a high quality animal quarters disinfectant called Cherry 256. It kills all the parasites, bacteria, and virii that make doggie daycare chancey in less fastidious places. Vets will tell you they're not crazy about daycare 'cause it spreads disease. But not us!! Local vets recommend us because we send dogs with a cough or diarrhea home. I've been trained in doggie first aid, and in the basic symptoms of the most common ailments. Our customers are grateful that we signal any problem right away and recommend a trip to the vet's office. We do not let dogs associate with others if we suspect a communicable disease.


The other thing you want to know about your potential play group or day care is: how much exercise does my Baby really get? At The Doggie Den, our guests are free to play from 9am to 6pm. We open at 7am, and we crate the arrivals or leash them in place until 9am, when everyone is freed for the rest of the day. Be sure to ask if doggie guests are crated or restrained for any part of the day. At The Doggie Den we get constant 'thank you's' from customers whose dogs come home exhausted! And that's what you want. Supervised play for extended periods of time! And there should be comfy bedding available in the play areas so the pups can rest when they want to. At The Doggie Den we give everyone a treat at 1pm, then sit down and encourage them to rest. Just like kids' daycare!

Dominance

There are few concepts that dog owners talk about more than "dominance". Every behavior in the book gets attributed to this trait: nipping, leash pulling, humping, body checks during play, and on and on. The minute a behavior disturbs or frightens someone, the dominance devil rears his ugly head.

Let's start with the assumption that we all want what we want, including dogs. So if Fluffy sees that Fido has a cute squeaky toy that he's loathe to share , she's going to challenge him, bark at him, flirt with him, distract him and/or simply grab the toy. If she opts for the more aggressive tactics (like challenging with a stiff body, a hard glare and a growl; or grabbing the toy) she will likely be labeled dominant (argh...). People seem to labor under the misconception that some dogs are hardwired to try to take charge in every situation. I swear, some of our clients think their dogs lie awake at night reviewing their game plan for daily dominance.

It's an easy answer and it helps people to sound knowledgeable. Unfortunately, more often than not, it's the wrong answer. If every undesirable behavior could be reduced to dominance, training your pup not to indulge in same would involve simply overpowering her in each naughty instance. In case anyone is wondering, that doesn't work. The dog may learn to submit (maybe) but only when you're in her face. And she won't learn to obey. Try using power tactics when your dog sees a squirrel and takes off! You'll be lucky if she even notices you.

Most of your pup's behavior is driven by either instinct or conditioning.

Instinct includes fear responses of fight and flight; hunting, (which frequently manifests itself as nipping at or mouthing other animals, including your cat); playing; seeking company (either people or other dogs); and guarding resources, like food. There is a hunting instinct called "predatory drift" whereby a perfectly nice dog will automatically attack (and often try to kill) a smaller animal, especially if the smaller guy moves suddenly, or scoots. These behaviors aren't driven by a desire for status. They're traits carried on from ancestors, or traits that humans have selectively bred for in order to enable the dog to perform a given task successfully. Some breeds of hunting dogs are bred to disable prey quickly and efficiently. Some herding breeds are genetically programmed to nip at other animals on the run to get them going in a certain direction. But very little of your dog's behavior is driven by her need to fancy herself the leader of the pack. Dogs don't have the capacity for that sort of self congratulation. However, they may indeed try to rule the roost if you let them do whatever they want and/or give in to tantrums on their part. I have clients who think it's cute that their dog whines and barks when anyone takes "his spot" on the couch. Not cute. One day a child may visit you and take that seat; his mom will not be delighted when your mastiff barks menacingly.

Behaviors that come from conditioning are those that have gotten your dog what she wants. For example, she may have learned that shoving her muzzle into your hand will get you to stroke her. Sometimes we mean to condition our pups (like when you give a treat if a dog obeys a command) and sometimes we don't even know we're doing it. For instance, if your pup pulls on his leash and you continue to allow him to move forward (what he wants) he's going to pull you every time you snap on his leash. If, on the other hand, he is pulled back by your side and made to stand or sit for a moment every time he pulls, he will learn to do what you want, which is to move forward at a pace that leaves some slack in the leash. That is, IF you're consistent about praising him lavishly (and or treating) every time he moves forward at the pace that YOU set. BTW, with high energy dogs and puppies, it's a good idea to trot or run with your leashed dog at your side at first, so he doesn't have to contain too much frustration!

That said, there is such a thing as social hierarchy, whether we're talking about dog packs, families and their pets, or large corporations. The reason is obvious: social hierarchy is a structure that helps get the group focused on the task at hand, whether it's people making widgets or dogs sharing food without killing one another. In the social hierarchy of dogs, it's not the lead dog or "alpha" that's likely to exhibit aggression. On the contrary, it's the middle ranking dogs that challenge, contest and try to punish. Dogs will follow a leader that doesn't have to exhibit aggression because she is confident in her strength and can get others to obey with a look. Think of those nature films about wild dogs where the alpha will change an underling's behavior simply by staring at him. It is extremely rare that alpha dogs in the wild use force to asset their authority.

So, if your dog growls at any other dog that comes near you, it's likely because she's a feisty middle ranker. If you have a truly dominant dog, he'll be able to get other dogs to back away from you simply by staring. His look will say, "Did you just approach my person without asking?" And, the middle ranker will usually respond by either going away, or asking to approach in a submissive manner, like crouching down and inching slowly toward your alpha dog, always staying lower than him.

Now the REAL question is not whether your dog is dominant or not. It's WHO INFLUENCES WHOSE BEHAVIOR?!! Do you throw your dog's toy because he's barking at you? Yup, he's got you trained. No complaints when he won't do what you want!!

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Doggie Dry Nose - Sign of Illness?

My dog's nose is dry. Is he sick?

Guest Post By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,



Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in patients that can't

talk is the first step to observant pet care. A "dry nose" is often seen as a

sign of illness in dogs and cats, but is it? The purpose of this FAQ is to serve

as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination

is in order.

Answer: The "warm nose myth" has many pet owners feeling that their pet has a

fever (or otherwise sick) if the nose is warm and dry. A dog's (or cat's) nose

may be very wet and cool one moment then be warmer and not-so-moist the next.

All in the course of a day. All perfectly normal.

Changes in texture (crusty, flaky) and color (loss of pigmentation) of a pet's

nose should be looked at by your veterinarian. A prolonged dry, cracked nose,

particularly with loss of pigmentation, scabs or open sores should be examined

by your veterinarian sooner rather than later.

An ill animal will often have a warm, dry nose in addition to other symptoms,

such as: lethargy, decreased or absent appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and so on.

In the absence of other physical signs, there are a host of dermatological

(skin) problems that can be seen in this area, such as Pemphigus Foliaceus.

Other nose conditions to be aware of



Contact sensitivity

Allergies and sensitivities to plastics and dyes may also manifest as changes

on the nose and muzzle area on pets fed from plastic dishes. I recommend using

stainless steel bowls to eliminate this potential problem. Glass or ceramic

bowls are also acceptable, provided that they are study and on a solid surface

to prevent breakage.

Nasal discharge

Anytime your pet shows signs of a "runny nose" -- one that has discharge

coming from the nostrils -- should be examined by your veterinarian. Coughing,

sneezing and difficulty breathing can be signs of anything from a respiratory

infection to a nasal foreign body to a tumor in the nasal passages. Animals

that show these signs (more than an occasional cough or sneeze) should be seen

by your veterinarian.

Black spots

Owners of orange or calico cats often note black spots on their cat's nose and

lips as the cat ages. This is called lentigo simplex, and is a normal change

seen commonly in orange tabby and calico cats.

Sunburn

Dogs, cats, horses, and other species are prone to sunburn (also known as

"solar dermatitis") and subsequent skin cancer on noses, ear tips, and around

eyes. Light coated, pink-nosed animals are at greatest risk. Check with your

veterinarian about providing sun protection for your pet if they are in this

category of risk.




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Holiday Pet Safety

Goodness, gracious me, but time does fly. It's been weeks long since I blogged! Good to be back, because with the holiday season in full swing, I just have to talk about pet safety.

Courtesy of the Humane Society, here are some important tips:

'Til the season to decorate our homes with live Christmas trees and other holiday greenery. But did you know that some of these yuletide traditions can be hazardous to your pet's health?

* Lovely lilies are commonly used in holiday floral arrangements, but many varieties - inluding Tiger, Asian, Japaneses Show, Stargazer and the Casa Blanca - can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.

* Bag the boughs of holly and mistletoe. Sure, they add a nice touch to your holiday decor, but holly can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy if eaten by your pet. And should he or she sample mistletoe, he/she could suffer gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic.

* Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he or she imbibe.

* Although the potential toxicity of poinsettias is generally overstated, these showy holiday plans can irritate your pet's mouth, and may cause nausea and/or vomiting.

If you suspect that your animal companion has eaten a potentially toxic substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 for round-the-clock telephone assistance.



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Summer Time!

It's summer and time for lots of outdoor family fun with your dog. Beach cookouts, little league games, leisurely yard work, or just lying in the hammock... there are lots of activities where your dog can joyfully join you.  

Dogs can tolerate reasonable amounts of heat, but when it gets above 80 degrees there are a few things to remember.

ALWAYS carry water, even if you're just going out to the yard.  There are lots of portable dog drinking bottles available at pet stores, or just make sure there's cool water available in a dish in the shade. Check the dish each time you go out with your pup.

NEVER leave you dog alone in the car.  Ever.  Not even with the windows cracked.  Dogs can only release heat through panting, and then  in limited amounts.  They can release some heat through the pads of their paws, but they don't sweat.  The interior of your car will quickly heat up to 100 degrees and more, and your dog will suffer heat stroke, which can kill in a matter of minutes.  If you can't leave the ac on for your dog, she or he is better off at home, enjoying your favorite chair while you're busy!

When BOATING, make sure your pup has a life jacket designed for a dog his or her size.  Even dogs that swim well, like spaniels, labs and goldens, need life jackets in case they're confused when they fall in the water.  Doesn't matter if you're taking a rowboat or a cabin cruiser... suit up the pup!

At the BEACH, keep your dog leashed under the umbrella unless you're taking him to the water to play.  Put ice cubes in a container at home before you leave, place them in a cooler, and offer the  container to pup as the ice melts.  S/he will need to cool down his or her core temperature several times during your beach day.  A dip in the surf helps, as does a cold drink.

WALK your dog in the early morning and evening when it's coolest.  Don't exercise him or her at all if the temperature in the sun is above 80 degrees.  For potty needs, a quick trip outside on a leash will do until the sun goes down.

When HIKING in very warm weather, try to limit your dog's amount of off-leash time.  Some dogs will run until they're seriously overheated and then have trouble cooling off.  If there's a safe body of water on the trail, encourage pup to have a plunge and a drink.

PUPSICLES: A cheap and easy way to cool your dog down.

Fill an ice tray with low sodium beef or chicken stock and freeze. Put the cubes in a container in a cooler, and feed them to her one at a time.

Some dogs (especially the larger breeds) will crunch them right up, while others will lick them.  Either way, the dog cools down.  Pup will also need plain water in addition to his treat.

Dogs love sugary drinks but it's best not to use them for pupsicles.  Sugar's even worse for dogs than it is for us!

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Canine Influenza Can Cause Lung Damage: Vaccination Helps

Reprinted with edits from The Pet Care Services Association newsletter "Boarderline,"  Oct. 2010

A new study in Veterinary Biology is the first to confirm that canine influenza virus (CIV) H3N8 easily spreads from infected dogs to other dogs.   It also showed that CIV can cause more serious forms of respiratory disease in dogs, such as pneumonia, that often go undetected in clinical practice.

Cyndy Crawford, DVM, Ph.D., University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Assistant Professor of Shelter Medicine, and a leading expert on CIV, said, "This study is important for several reasons.  First, it provides clear evidence that CIV H3N8 is highly transmissible between dogs, confirming field observations recorded during naturally occurring canine influenza outbreaks in confined populations of dogs.  Second, the finding of subclinical pneumonia in nearly all infected dogs in the study underscores the virulence of this virus in both the upper and lower respiratory tract, predisposing many dogs to serious overt pneumonia requiring hospitalization."

In addition, researchers confirmed that the excretion of the virus (shedding) precedes the manifestation of clinical signs.  This is significant, according to the study, because it demonstrates that apparently healthy dogs can infect dogs they encounter at kennels, clinics, shelters, training settings, shows and other locations where they congregate.  Researchers also found evidence of "rolling" infection, which makes if difficult for infected kennels and shelters to eliminate the infection unless they close down, and keep new, uninfected dogs from entering, according to the researchers.  These locations can also become sources of disease with the potential to spread to other facilities.

(...) one of the authors of the study said, "We know that canine influenza, a new disease for many veterinarians, is often under- or misdiagnosed because clinical signs are often similar to other respiratory diseases.  Our research further suggests that infected dogs may have serious lung damage that goes undetected because it does not manifest as pneumonia."   Study authors concluded that many more dogs with CIV are likely to have lung damage not being detected clinically in veterinary practice, particularly compared to canine cough, which rarely leads to serious respiratory disease.
Dr. Crawford also noted, "Since clinical trials have demonstrated that canine flu H3N8 vaccine significantly reduces virus shedding, and the presence of subclinical pneumonia, the findings of this new study suggest that vaccination may greatly reduce the potential for rolling infections and pneumonia, thereby protecting facilities from full-blown outbreaks and individuals from hospitalizion

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Cuba is June Dog of the Month

Meet Cuba, a dog who thoroughly enjoys life.  She's easy-going as can be, but will stand up for herself  if another dog steps on her.  Cuba loves to be cuddled and talked to.  She's our June Dog of the Month and will get a free bath and nail trim.  She says it's about time!

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Two year old German Shepherd hides his birthday treat

Lenny the German Shepherd turned 2 today.   Wanted no part of  his party hat but he sure tucked into his treat.  Hid it in the corner of the couch and surrounded it with his whole body, like a convict protecting his dinner!  In the end, though, he yielded a taste to his friend Simon, the brindle colored chow who moves in at the end.
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Welcome Carolyn!

Carolyn came to The Doggie Den from Dirty Hairy's in Hudson, MA. The daycare dogs can't wait for her to finish her daily grooming work so they can play with her! She's a long-time dog lover - here she's died and gone to heaven!

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Four Seasons Dog Care

Come to PET ROCK FESTIVAL, Sunday, Sept 9th, noon to 4 pm and Susan will sign your copy of Four Seasons Dog Care.  It's at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester.  Susan'll be at the Information Tent just as you enter the festival. 

DESCRIPTION: As each season gives way to the next, your needs change and so do your dog's! And if you don't pay attention to the right things, your faithful companion can complicate your life when you least need it. For example, fall is a time when people change the antifreeze in their vehicles, so you need to look out for polluted puddles from which your dog might drink. Similarly, spring brings allergies and itchy skin, but you can avoid expensive vet visits by putting your dog on an antihistamine. "Four Seasons Dog Care" is a compact compilation of what you should think about, do, and watch out for as the seasons change. Enjoy it as an informative cover-to-cover read, or use it as a handy reference manual. It will help you and your dog make smooth transitions from each season to the next, so you can enjoy the opportunities that the changing weather brings.

Or buy your copy on amazon.com now and bring it to Pet Rock for Susan to sign.  Click here for more information about Pet Rock.

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Dr. Jon on Chosing the Right Breed for Your Living Space

Here's Dr. Jon's take on what you should think about when choosing a new dog.  See his website at:
http://www.petplace.com.

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs need a huge house with a big yard. The size of your home is certainly a factor when choosing a dog that's a good fit for your lifestyle, but having cozy quarters doesn't mean that you need to remain dog-free. Today I want to discuss the real issue of your home's size as it relates to your choice in dogs, and to offer a couple of breed recommendations.

Some dogs aren't a good fit for apartments for several reasons. Their sheer size alone might be a factor; many apartment complexes do not allow dogs over 35 pounds. Dogs who require a lot of activity, such as collies, will likely be frustrated and feel anxious without room to run around. Still other dogs are very intelligent and easily get bored if they are not given enough mental stimulation... and boredom leads to destructive behavior! And other dogs are a no-go because they are very vocal or protective, barking loudly at the slightest noise or movement from neighbors. Giving your dog a safe and responsible home includes one where they will be enjoyed and respected, not constantly scolded or crated for being loud.

Some dogs, though, are an amazing fit for these smaller living spaces. They are the perfect low-key companions for apartment dwellers. Check out these three breeds who can live quite happily and comfortably in an apartment:

Pug - This small breed is a very popular choice for smaller living spaces. Their short fur makes grooming easy, although you must be sure to keep an eye on shedding. At about a foot in height and 20 pounds, they need minimal space and are typically thrilled to cuddle on the couch with you. Pugs also don't need much exercise - in fact, their short faces can make breathing difficult if they exercise too strenuously, so be sure to keep an eye on them if accessing your apartment requires going up and down lots of stairs.

Greyhound - Although the greyhound is a relatively large dog - weighing an average of 65 pounds and standing at 2.5 feet tall -they are relatively low-maintenance. Their soft, short fur is very simple to groom and these big cuddlebugs are frequently called “couch potatoes” for their low-key personalities. They do require regular exercise, however, and must have access to a securely fenced area for running at least a few times a week. If your landlord does not permit dogs over 35 pounds, consider checking out other sighthounds such as whippets or Italian greyhounds; these gentle, quiet, and loving dogs are a wonderful addition to any apartment.

Miniature Schnauzer - The miniature Schnauzer is a loving, faithful dog who thrives on human interaction. The smallest of the Schnauzer family, this miniature breed weighs only about 15 pounds. Unlike the standard and giant Schnauzer, these miniatures don't mind spending time alone. Their reputation as a child-loving dog makes them a good option for a family.

There are many more breeds that are great for living in apartments. You can learn more about apartment-friendly breeds at this link. Once you know what kind of puppy will do well in your home, don't forget to read up about everything you need to know about choosing and getting a puppy right here. And finally, when you're ready to find your new companion, check out this link to find a new pet near you.


There are many adorable dogs out there, but don't be swayed by a cute face. A pet is for life so carefully consider their needs from puppyhood to maturity.

Until next time,

Dr. Jon

   
P.S. - What if you're on the other end of the spectrum and have a lot of room? Maybe you are interested in discovering which dogs will be best for your children or senior family members. You can find the perfect dog to fit your lifestyle by reading all about different breeds right here at this link.

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www.facebook.com/thedoggieden

Halloween Watch-outs!!

It's a spooky, kooky, loupy time of the year! A time for dress-up and parties. Of course we'd like to have our dogs participate too. After all, they're family.

But there are hazards!

• Skip the sweets. Candy that contains the artificial sweetener xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar in dogs, which leads to depression, lack of coordination and seizures.
• Confiscate candy wrappers. Pets love to play with candy wrappers, but wrappers made of aluminum foil or cellophane can cause intestinal blockage and induce vomiting.
• Forego trick-or-treating. During trick-or-treating hours, keep dogs in a room away from the front door to keep them from stealing candy or escaping the safety of home. Make sure your pets are wearing a collar with identification tags in case they accidentally get loose.
• Beware of costumes. Halloween costumes should not limit a dog's movement, hearing, sight, or ability to breathe or bark. They should not pose a choking hazard. Consider festive Halloween bandanas as an alternative to costumes.
• Ditch the decorations. Pets can easily knock over jack-o'-lanterns and start a fire or simply get burned by candles when sniffing the openings. Chewed cords and wires from decorations can damage a pet's mouth or deliver a potentially lethal electric shock.

As always, if you suspect that your dog has been poisoned, call the ASPCA's 24-hour poison control hotline: 888-426-4435.

Reprinted from Pet Age magazine, October 2008

Check out these dog links!

The Doggie Den Homepage
http://www.lazydogcookies.com/
http://www.g4ventures.com/
http://www.pawsitivelygourmet.com/
http://www.appma.org/ (American Pet Products Assocition)
http://www.akc.org/ (American Kennel Club)
http://www.aspca.org/ (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

The Fabulous PET ROCK FESTIVAL at Quinsigamond Community College

Come to this years PET ROCK, and get your personalized, signed copy of FOUR SEASONS DOG CARE BY SUSAN LADUE!  Sunday Sept. 9th, noon to 4pm at the Information Tent located just as you enter the festival.

Or get your copy online and Susan will sign it at PET ROCK or at any weekday at THE DOGGIE DEN.  

BOOK DESCRIPTION:  As each season gives way to the next, your dog's needs change, and if you don't pay attention to the right things, life can get complicated. For example, fall is a time when people change the antifreeze in their vehicles, so you need to look out for polluted puddles from which your dog might drink. Similarly, spring brings allergies and itchy skin, but you can avoid expensive vet visits by putting your dog on an antihistamine.

"Four Seasons Dog Care" is a compact compilation of what you should think about, do, and watch out for as the seasons change. Enjoy it as an informative cover-to-cover read, or use it as a handy reference manual. It will help you and your dog make smooth transitions from each season to the next, so you can enjoy the opportunities that the changing weather brings.

Check out these dog links!
The Doggie Den Homepage

Party for Raven's 2nd birthday

Raven and her sister Java are goldendoodles who love life and can jump like gymnasts.   At Raven's second birthday party she woofed her Frosty Paws treat, but was nice about giving Java a few licks.  And of course, there were sundry interested by-standers!
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Buyer Beware! Unsafe Daycares

There are lots of veterinarians, groomers and kennel owners who decide to add dog daycare to their service offerings. Some are qualified to manage dogs in packs, but many are not. And many create environments that look cute but could be dangerous to your dog! Experienced daycare providers know that:

1. Every surface in the environment must be securely affixed, washable and disinfectable. None should be porous, loose, or permeable. No plaster (they'll eat it), curtains or hangings (they'll pee and vomit on them and tear them up); or ornate beds (they'll chew and swallow pieces).

2. No matter how well you supervise dogs at play, they're going to get into things they're not supposed to - so make sure there's nothing "verboten" in their environment.

3. The only objects the dogs have access to should be industry-approved toys and equipment. Beds and crates, for example must be washed and disinfected every day!

4. Toys should be examined DAILY to make sure they are not damaged or broken in such a way that a canine guest could get a piece lodged in his or her throat or intestines. For example rope toys made of string are a big no-no.

and last but not least

4. If it's too cute it's probably not a safe environment!

Some daycare play areas, for example, include fabric hangings that can be ripped and eaten; they also hold odors, bacteria and viruses. Rubber or other relatively porous flooring also retains germs and odors and can be dug or chewed up. Many daycare environments are designed to charm people, but are not right for dogs.

At The Doggie Den, all of our play areas are surrounded by sparkling clean ceramic tile walls. The floors are non-slip industrial pvc tiling that cannot be ripped up or chewed. Our toys are those recommended for daycare providers by the American Pet Care Association. Our beds and crates are also industry approved. The couches in the play areas are covered by removable, washable covers and are disinfected frequently.

Come see for yourself ! The Doggie Den is truly the best dog daycare in central Massachusetts.

The Doggie Den Homepage

Breeding Your Dog

Along with spring cleaning, April brings thoughts of starting a puppy family to many a dog owner. This time of year, customers ask me about breeding at least once a week. Mr. and Mrs. LoveDog feel that Fluffy Ann would make a terrific mom; or that Gentleman Jim is just the best looking stud around. And they're usually right! So, it makes sense that they would look for a stud (or a bitch) to breed their beloved to... at least once. Often, dog moms and dads tell me they're going to have Fluffy Ann spayed but not before they breed her, just once! It's like a refrain.

So here I come, the (excuse the pun) party pooper. There are already too many dogs in the world. Every year, thousands upon thousands of dogs are euthanized in veterinarians' offices and in animal shelters across the country. Many thousands more are wandering the countryside or the city streets, or living in the woods (barely). The luckiest of the wanderers and wood dwellers get found by kind samaritans who get them to no-kill shelters or animal rescue organizations. I've adopted my canine companions from rescues for years, and I've never been disappointed. And every one of my dog loves has been pure bred! Benny, for example looks like a typical cocker spaniel. However, he is (forgive me, Benny) a perfect idiot. An idiot with attention deficit disorder! Only a dog junkie could love him. And it's likely he was bred by a well-meaning amateur who couldn't bear not to reproduce his or her adorable cocker... or maybe by a puppy mill, but that's another subject. My point is that the endless "just once" breeders, even those who own a dog with an excellent pedigree, are adding to the "unwanted dog" problem. So much so that there are rescues that specialize in particular breeds of dog. If you don't believe me, Google "breed rescues".

So, please, let's leave the breeding to the professionals. Responsible breeders only breed after a dog has become an AKC champion. That means he or she has been shown numerous times, at specified kinds of events, and has won a certain number of points from various AKC-certified judges. The reason for this is that the goal for an ethical breeder is to improve his or her breed. Good breeders match adult mates for body structure, temperment, quality of coat and, most of all, excellent health. For example no reputable breeder would breed a dog with hip dysplasia, even if it had been shown successfully. This is important!! You have to know what you're doing! You have to know what to look for and who to exclude. You have to know your breed inside out and backwards. Cherish your dog, take a zillion pictures, brag about her to anyone who'll listen. But, please, let her off the parenthood hook.

Introducing DoggieBlog

Hello all you dog lovers out there! You have found the official blog of The Doggie Den, a dog services organization in Northborough, MA. If you're wondering who we are, check us out at www.thedoggieden.net! I am Susan, the owner, and you can find out about me either here in my profile or on The Doggie Den website, where you'll find a picture of me with one of my favorite customers, Oscar, an Olde English Sheepdog.


This blog is open to any appropriate, tasteful comments about dogs and their people. We're interested in personal stories, homage to individual pups, questions about dog care, info about dog services and resources... and whatever else you can think of. We also like pictures of dogs and their people.


So Welcome! Let's hear from you!

Fleas Fleas Fleas

Summer is winding down, but one little pest is still thriving in warm, humid parts of the country like New England. Fleas are hearty and nimble; when searching for a host they can jump up to 2 feet, 10,000 times in a row - that adds up to the length of 3 football fields! They can also cause troublesome health problems in dogs such as anemia, skin allergies and tapeworms. These legendary leapers are tough to fight, but here are some tips that will rub your dog the right way:

• Apply a monthly, veterinarian-approved anti-tick medication. Some of the good ones are Frontline Plus, Advantix, and Program. Don't miss a month, from March through November!!
• Know your enemy: confirm your pet has fleas by identifying signs such as tiny black spots on the skin. These are droppings, sometimes known as "flea dirt". Also watch for excessive scratching and scabs.
• Treat all of your pets, not just those who show outward signs of infestation.
• Thoroughly clean your house, including rugs, bedding and upholstery, and discard any used vacuum bags.
• Fleas love long grass and shady outdoor spots - remember to treat and maintain your yard as carefully as your house. Ask your vet about products for treating your yard.
• NEVER use medications intended for dogs on cats, or vice versa! Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and ASPCA Senior Vice President, says, "Just a few drops of concentrated permethrin, present in many spot-on treatments for dogs, can be lethal to cats".

And enjoy an itch-free end of summer!

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Don't Shave Your Dog!

Excellent advice from the ASPCA:  Click here for ASPCA blog.

Nearly everywhere in America, this summer is a scorcher, and we know that as a responsible pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your best four-legged friends cool. So when you look at your Pomeranian, Golden Retriever or long-haired cat wearing a thick, fluffy coat, you might feel tempted to break out your grooming tools and give him a serious hair cut. But hold those clippers! While you or I would hate to sport a fur coat in 100-degree weather, your pets’ fur coats are actually providing them with heat relief.

“A dog’s coat is kind of like insulation for your house,” explains Dr. Louise Murray, Senior Vice President of ASPCA Bergh Memorial Hospital. “Insulation stops your home from getting too cold in winter, but it also keeps it from overheating in summer—and your dog’s coat does the same thing.”
Dogs’ coats have several layers, and these layers are essential to your dog’s comfort in the heat. Robbing your dog of this natural cooling system can lead to discomfort and overheating. And keeping your dog cool isn’t the only reason to leave his coat intact, Dr. Murray warns. Your dog’s coat prevents your pup from getting sunburn and helps protect her from skin cancer.

So what can you do? “It’s OK to trim your long-haired dog’s long hair, such as any hair that hangs down on his legs,” Dr. Murray says. Just never attempt to clip mats off your pet’s coat with scissors, Dr. Murray adds. And if you’ve got a long-haired kitty, leave her coat intact. Instead, brush her a little more frequently during the hot summer months.

To protect your pet from sunburn and skin cancer, save longer walks for evenings, and consider applying pet-specific sun block to thinly covered areas like the bridge of your dog’s nose, the tips of his ears and his belly, Dr. Murray suggests, noting that pets with thin coats, as well as those with white or light-colored coats, are especially at risk for sun damage.

Of course, pet parents should remember to keep pets inside with plenty of water during hot days—hydration is key! For more important information on summer pet care, visit our Hot-Weather Tips.

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The Doggie Den Homepage

Safe holidays for the Dogs

Here are some tips about how to make the holidays safe and fun for the family dog, as well as for yourself. First, be aware of holiday hazards and supervise your dog when she's exposed to them. For example tinsel, Christmas lights, wires, glass ornaments and holiday decorations can be deadly to pets. Don't leave Pup-Pup alone with any hazardous materials, not even for a minute! Make sure your holidays aren't interrupted by an emergency visit to a veterinary hospital.

To help Pup-Pup share in the fun, place dog-safe toys and ornaments on the bottom branches of your tree, and let her play with them. Attach them with string, not wire hangers. And beware of chewing on evergreen branches or pine needles, for they can make her quite sick.

Of course, she'll make every effort to convince you to share your Christmas pudding. Don't give in! Cakes, pies, puddings, and especially candies contain ingredients that dogs can't digest (rich, processed fats, sugars and dairy products). At best, such ingredients cause diarrhea; at worst, they can be toxic (for example chocolate is a big "no-no"). Does Pup-Pup deserve her share or holiday treats? YOU BET! For yummy holiday treats fit for Fido, check out The Dogfather Bakery on Main Street in Westbor (next to the Bagel Bistro); Pets Gone Healthy on route 20 on the Marlboro/Northboro line; and Pet Source, in the RK Mall in Marlboro, next to Hannaford's Supermarket.

The Doggie Den Homepage

Traveling with your dog

Summertime is travel time and often we want our canine companions to enjoy vacation with us. Busy families sometimes forget that Pup-Pup needs to be provided for on vacation just like the kids, so here are some tips about traveling with your pet.

When traveling by car, make sure to make multiple rest stops to prevent accidents or restless behavior in the car. Remember to leash Pup-Pup BEFORE you open the car doors! The dog rescue groups that we work with get too many dogs found wandering on turnpikes. Purchase a canine seatbelt and make a couple of trial runs in your neighborhood to allow your dog to adjust to the new restraint. Most pet stores carry one or more styles of canine seatbelts. While you're packing for the kids, prepare a doggie travel kit that includes: food, bottled water, bowls, treats, favorite toy, blanket, and plastic bags suitable for poop pick-up and disposal. Also include complete copies of his health record in Pup-Pup's travel kit and don't forget an extra collar with all the necessary identification info in case he loses the one he has on. As part of your travel planning, check ahead for pet friendly hotels and campgrounds. This can be done at www.petswelcome.com.

If you're traveling with your pet by plane, make sure to get complete information ahead of time from your airline. Find out if your pet is small enough to travel in the cabin with you, and what you need to do to facilitate that. Most airlines require advance reservations for pets traveling in the passenger cabin and there's usually a pre-paid fee. Some airlines require you to rent or purchase their in-flight carriers. On travel day, allow lots of extra time at the airport to go through check-in and security with your dog.

Larger dogs cannot travel in the passenger cabin and must fly separately as cargo. There are many risks associated with this practice and most vets and pet professionals don't recommend it especially if it's only for a vacation. The least of the evils is that it's a very unpleasant experience for the dog, and problems multiply from there, including dogs that get lost like luggage, or are injured or killed by in-flight conditions. I'm not trying to be an alarmist here; I just know of many people who've lost dogs who flew in cargo. If you have to fly with a large dog, hold food at least 6 hours prior to flight to avoid vomiting and/or diarhhea, both of which are common problems in-flight. It's not a bad idea to ask your regular veterinarian if a sedative or anti-nausea medication is appropriate.

Household toxins that kill

I don't know how we raised pets when we were kids, because no one ever told us all the stuff that I currently know, yet my family had a healthy cat and a healthy dog, both of which 'made old bones'. But the ASPCA says that incidents of pets ingesting household and backyard poisons is increasing. Perhaps there are more products around that are made with poisonous ingredients; or maybe busy families forget to supervise dogs and/or leave cabinets open. At any rate I read the amazing statistic that incidences of poisoning with polyurethane glue have risen 740% since 2002 (see Petsitusa link)!!

Autumn brings particular dangers like lawn treatments and antifreeze. Fertilizers continue to be a danger in the fall for those who plant bulbs. Cleaning products are always a hazard. Many plants are toxic to dogs and cats, so as you bring plants inside for the winter, check with the Poison Control Center (phone number below). All toxic products should be keep in sealed plastic containers, like the ones you can buy at Walmart for not much money. Drop your bag of bulb fertilizer in a plastic container and make sure the top is firmly set. Same with plastic bottles containing fluids like cleaners and antifreeze. If you winterize your car yourself, make sure to clean up any spills promptly and keep the dog out of your work area! A tip I recently learned: antifreeze containing propylene glycol is less toxic than antifreeze made with ethylene glycol. But both will make your pup or kitty ill!

Salts and chemicals used to melt ice are a definite cold weather problem for pets. Walking on ice melts that contain calcium chloride and/or table salt can cause skin irritation. Chemicals used in ice melts can cause pets who lick their paws to experience vomiting, decreased muscle function and in severe cases, seizures, coma and death. Better to use benign substances like the product "SafePaw", or even ashes or sand in area where you pet walks.

If you think your pet has ingested a dangerous substance, contact your vet on an emergency basis or immediately call the ASPCA Animal Poison control Center at 1-888-426-4435.

Happy Birthday, Simon!

Simon is four years old today, and did he ever enjoy his Frosty Paws treat! He finished the whole thing before Susan could get a picture, but was willing to pose once he was done! He's a major sweetie, along with his sister, Olivia. When we sang happy birthday, Olivia pushed her way in and stared at us, like "What about me??"

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The Doggie Den Homepage

Go slow: Dogs at Play

Wouldn't your dog like to have fun this summer ??

Of course s/he would!!!

Call Susan at 508-393-6970 for a FREE daycare evaluation for your dog.

The Doggie Den Homepage

The Doggie Den Welcomes Nicole Bonin

The Doggie Den is excited to welcome Nicole Bonin to our grooming team.  She joins Shawna Rubin who has built a loyal, enthusiastic grooming clientele at The Doggie Den.  Nicole graduated from the MA School of Pet Grooming in Medford, MA in 2005.  Then she moved to North Carolina where she worked in two different shops as an all-breed groomer.  Now she has returned to MA. to work at The Doggie Den.  Customers say her clipping and scissoring is the best.  Welcome Nicole.

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Happy Birthday Luke!

Luke was born on Valentine's Day so we had a special party for him and his puppy pals. Homemade dog cookies and Frosty Paws treats for everyone! Luke was a great host!

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Romance at The Doggie Den

It's early New England springtime and cupid's arrow has struck Cleo (Great Dane) and Teague (Irish Terrier). They're both very shy with others, but together... watch out! Lots of play and snuggles - and jealousy when anyone tries to butt in!


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Debarking Your Dog: Don't!

Every once in a while I see something about dogs online or on TV that makes me crazy. For example, I never watch America's Funniest Video's because the one time I did, they showed shots of dogs having weird accidents. It looked to me like the dogs were hurt, though not seriously. I was furious, then I saw that they do the same thing with children! There were scenes of toddlers falling down steps and, in one case, into a swimming pool. The audience thought it was hilarious. So a parent can earn thousands of dollars showing their kid having a funny accident. In several of the entries, the child was crying at the end. Guess I shouldn't be surprised that dogs were fair game.

Then the other night I saw a major network feature on debarking dogs. At first I thought it couldn't be what it sounded like. But... lest we not have a clear picture, the producers showed dog after dog having their vocal cords cut or otherwise damaged, as with a laser. Per the usual network practice of "balancing the story", we heard from those who were in favor of this practice, as well as those who were against. Didn't help, as far as I was concerned. One of the dog owners was a Sheltie breeder who had had consistent complaints from neighbors because of barking. So she debarked her dogs! I watched 20 seconds of Shelties in her back yard opening their mouths to emit a sound that resembled a sick cough. Daphne was appalled. She slunk out of the room, looking over her shoulder at me in unmistakable rebuke. I felt ashamed for humans.

Debarking involves cutting the vocal cords, or otherwise impeding their vibration. The dog is anesthezied, then an incision is made under his/her chin. It only takes minutes. Whoopee for efficiency. And the neighbors don't complain... how nice. This practice is barbaric!! It reminds me of another century when prison guards cut peoples' Achilles tendons to prevent them from bolting. It's just one example of the lengths people will go to to avoid the work of training their faithful companions. People will use electric shocks; collars that spray stinging fluids like citronella in their eyes and mouth; prong collars with barbs that dig into the flesh of the dog's throat and damage his/her esophagus; and now surgery, rather than teach the dog how to live with humans. Sorry, but there's no excuse. It's sheer laziness, not to say the need for instant gratification. Would you use a citronella collar to stop your 3 month old daughter from crying??? Would you put barbs around the neck of a toddler who constantly pulls away from you and gets herself into trouble?

I know, dogs are not children. But they are mammels with nerve endings and they hurt. It's just that they don't always show that they're in pain. So a Rottweiler with a prong collar who's dragging his master down the street doesn't look like he's hurt. If it hurt, he would stop, right? WRONG! Lots of dogs don't make the connection between pain and bad behavior. Almost all dogs can make a connection between good behavior and rewards. So why doesn't the guy teach his Rottweiler to walk nicely by giving him lots of hugs and treats when he does well?? It's just too hard, I guess. And then there's the issue of guys and macho dog breeds, but we'll leave that for another post.

The argument was made that some people would have to put their dogs down if they didn't cut their vocal chords. One judge even ordered a dog owner to have it done or euthanize the dog. Thank heavens, that judge no longer issues such orders because someone showed him exactly what's involved, and it repelled him. He now orders people to train their animals or give them up for adoption. Anyway the argument is ridulous. If you can't or won't take the time and effort to teach your dog not to bark, then give your dog to someone who will. Get help!! (from a trained canine behaviorist). It'll cost maybe the price of a dinner for two and a movie.

Check out these dog links!
The Doggie Den Homepage

What To Do About Bad Behavior (Repost from Dr. Jon)

Is your dog driving you crazy with his bad behavior? Almost all dogs I know have at least one habit that drives their owner crazy - typically things like chewing up shoes, shredding books, and getting into the garbage. It's a frustrating situation that a lot of owners just don't know how to handle. Sometimes they even resort to ineffective or even damaging methods of punishment as a way to stop the behavior. Don't pull your hair out or punish the dog! Instead, you can figure out what's causing the destructive behavior and eliminate it.

This is easier than it sounds. Behaviors that are considered “bad” are most frequently caused by a small number of issues. Today I'd like to tell you about them, as well as some simple ways to deal with them.

Health issues

If your dog is urinating or defecating inside the house, don't scold him - he may be showing symptoms of a health problem. Excessive scratching and rubbing against furniture can be indicators that your dog has allergies. Persistent gnawing might be an indication of tooth pain or disease. Keep an eye on what your dog is doing, since he might be telling you that something is wrong!

The first thing you should do if your dog starts acting out - especially if he's never done it before - is take your dog in to see the vet. Your vet will be able to diagnose or rule out health problems.

Boredom

Of course, your vet might find that there is nothing wrong physically with your dog. In that case, it's possible that your dog is simply bored! Does your dog have something to do when you're not at home? Do you give him plenty of play time and exercise? When a dog is bored, he might find ways of making his own fun. This can lead to destruction of your things, or even your dog getting into places that can be dangerous to him.

To prevent boredom, give your dog plenty of interactive toys to keep him busy when you aren't there to play with him. Try to take out your dog for runs or take him to a dog park once in a while to keep him active. Training sessions can also help reduce boredom, since they give your dog something to occupy his mind.

Stress and anxiety

Finally, your dog might be acting out because it's the way he expresses stress. Changes in your dog's environment or routine can make him anxious. If your dog starts urinating on ( “marking”) your furniture and home, he might be trying to mark your home as his territory. Think of marking as a billboard that says “This is mine.” A sudden increase in barking and whining can also indicate that your dog is feeling stressed.

To help your dog deal with stress, don't just treat the symptoms; you should aim to reduce or remove the stressor. Of course, this isn't always possible - like when you move to a new house or get a new pet.

In these cases, you can use Comfort Zone with D.A.P. Comfort Zone works by releasing dog pheromones (all-natural stress reducing compounds) into the air. Your dog smells these pheromones and they comfort him, making him feel secure in his environment - without needing to mark his territory or act out in other ways. Comfort Zone has been shown to reduce fear and stress-related destructive behavior by up to 65% according to studies. Your dog feels safe and secure, and you don't have to deal with his destructive behavior anymore - it's a solution that benefits everyone.

You see, if your dog starts displaying negative or “bad” behavior, don't punish him for it! Many times it's a symptom of one of the above causes. Consult with your vet, make sure your dog is getting enough activity and mental stimulation, and use Comfort Zone - and your dog will be back to his normal self in no time!

Until next time,

Dr. Jon


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Charlie Turns One

Charlie is one of our sweetest guests.  He walks away from vociferous encounters and plays with those who are gentle.  He loves human attention and preferred to have his birthday treats hand fed, so that's Laurie's people paw you see on the right.  Happy 1st birthday, Charlie!

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"There's a limit to sharing," Crosby exclaims.

Today is Crosby the puggle's birthday and he somewhat unwittingly shared his puppy patty treat with his Doggie Den pals. However, when it came to the container, he set his paws down.

Check out The Doggie Den's home page: www.thedoggieden.net

Loyal blog follower

Hi,
My name is Duke and I follow this blog, NOT because I'm loyal.  Because I gotta know what's goin' on!  My playpals get treats, ice cream, movies and facetime; and if'n I dint watch out I'd never know.  Susan knows I'm on the lookout now, though.  Where's mine, Susan??

BTW, you can see I'm a very tough guy.

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Fall fleas and ticks

Ah, the cool, bright days of October! The kids are settled in school, moms and dads are adjusting to new schedules, and the leaves are turning. Best season of the year!

Fleas and ticks??? But it's COLD outside, especially at night. Right! So fleas and ticks are looking for a warm winter home. The ones that live in your lawn or garden, or on your porch are redoubling their efforts to hop onto any warm body that passes by, especially furry bodies. So pick through pup's and kitty's coats for ticks and signs of fleas (like black specks on the skin, red skin rashes or signs of excessive scratching).

The best idea is to continue using a spot-on product like Frontline Plus, Advantix, or Program right up until you've had several hard frosts in your area. In Massachusetts, at The Doggie Den, we keep our pups on Frontline Plus until Christmas, then we start up again in March.


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Back on Track, Jack

Back to work on a "normal" schedule and the pups sense the change. At The Doggie Den, in our day care operation, those who took some vacation are over-the-top barky and crazed to be back. The ones who didn't are glad to see their friends and want to play non-stop. Some have diarrhea from sneaking forbidden holiday treats. At home, Daphne and Benny look at me as though I've lost my mind when I try to corral them into the van to go to work. They were perfectly happy being stay-at-home pets over each of the holiday weekends. Now they have to share me with the hordes again, and they're not happy. Daphne scratches my leg when I walk by at work; if that doesn't work, she grabs my pantleg with her teeth! No dummy she. The amount of lovin' she got over the holiday weekends was just fine, thanks, but why stop? Benny has regressed to displaying his aggressive, snarly mug whenever I greet another dog. He flew off the day care couch to kill a large Golden I was patting (remember, Benny is a small Cocker Spaniel) and almost broke his jaw... smack! on the floor. The Golden thought him a bit eccentric, but seemed unconcerned.


Unseasonably warm weather in Massachusetts and the outdoor area has turned to mud. The dogs love it. They lie down in the mud, sometimes even roll over; they chase each other around so their paws are coated, then leap onto the couches, which look like they do in the Spring, during the real mud season. This year, we get to do extra cleaning twice... at least! The good news is the heating bills won't cause heart attacks this year.


January is a low exercise time for both people and dogs. So get off the couch and take a fast walk with the pooch. Take him to a playgroup or day care while you go to the gym to work off the holiday goodies. Dogs need healthier lifestyles too!

Are There Poisonous Plants in Your Home?

As gardeners across the country say goodbye to summer, green thumbs and amateurs alike are scooping up houseplants to spice up the fall and winter months. They're also taking off their sunhats and dragging outdoor plans inside to protect them from upcoming dips in temperature. Plants are popular for their decorative, restorative, and air-cleaning properties, but many species are toxic to our curious furry friends. Soil and leaves attract dogs and cats who like to chew on vines and romp in the dirt. Here are some of the most poisonous best-sellers:

• Lilies, including stargazer, tiger and Easter lilies. "Even with very small ingestions, severe kidney damage can result," according to Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist.


• English ivy contains triterpenoid saponins which can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation and diarrhea if eaten.


• Peace lily and pothos can cause irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue (peace lilies), and swelling of the GI tract (pothos).


• Oleander is one of the most poisonous plants to pets and people. It can lead to GI irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

Keep the nibbler in your life safe from toxic foliage by placing all plants out of reach. Or better yet, choose a nontoxic alternative to brighten your home. For a list of safe plants, go to http://www.aspca.org/: (Aug. 29th, 2008 News Alert, "Most Popular Poisonous Plants) where there's an alphabetical listing of safe house plants. As always, if you think your pet has ingested something poisonous, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.

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www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=media_newsalert082908#1

Dog Bites: Breed-specific Ordinances

Preventing dog bites is an important goal for everyone. Unfortunately, in a world addicted to whatever looks like an easy fix, outraged citizens are asking cities and towns to outlaw certain breeds, thinking that will eliminate, or at least cut down on dog bites.


But this legislative solution is not a solution, because (1)no city or town can effectively enforce such a law and (2)even if the law could be effective, eliminating all the Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans in the world would not address the basic problem: DOG OWNER IRRESPONSIBILITY. Boston recently enacted an ordinance aimed at Pit Bulls and the law has done nothing to reduce the number of dog bites seen in local hospitals and doctors' offices.


What would work, then?


1: Enforcing existing animal control laws, for example. Police can effectively fine people whose dogs run loose, or who walk dogs without a leash. A program of rewards for reporting dogs running loose would help. The key here is to increase funding for animal control!


2: So would mandatory spaying and neutering for all but AKC champions. Only bitches and dogs who have earned their championship should be bred anyway, because the goal should be to improve the temperament, health, and appearance of the breeds. It's highly unlikely that the owner of a champion Staffordshire Terrier (aka "Pit Bull")would breed her or him for killer temperament. If the law obliged veterinarians to report any non-spayed or non-neutered dog to the police, and if owners were fined, there would be fewer intact dogs to cause trouble. Intact male dogs represent 80% of dogs presented to veterinary behaviorists for dominance aggression, and are involved in 70%-76% of reported dog bites in Massachusetts.


But dog bites are only preventable in situations where owners act responsibly. All dogs need appropriate restraint, socialization, obedience training, and safe public areas in which to exercise (dog parks). Dogs and children (especially babies) need very close supervision. A child's attempt to cuddle the family dog can easily result in frightening the animal, and thus put the child at risk of a bite.


As for those who WANT dangerous dogs, they will find them - or create them through deliberate cruelty. Such people should be shot and fed to their dangerous animals.

Cody's 7th Birthday

Cody turned 7 on July 10th.  He's our all around good guy who likes everybody.... provided they don't come on too strong.  Definitely more a lover than a fighter.  In the end he even left some Frosty Paws treat for his pals.


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How to make your dog walk nicely

We're expecting a nor'easter in Massachusetts today, March 16th! It's supposed to dump around 6 inches of snow, maybe more. NEVERTHELESS... it's spring, tomorrow is Saint Patrick's Day, and the weather is bound to turn mild one of these days.

Mild weather makes us want to be outdoors - people and dogs! We all know that walking is great exercise and you would think that leash walking the pup would be a preferred springtime activity. Too often, though, we won't walk with our dogs because their on-leash behavior is awful. They pull and jerk us around. So some of us get retractable leashes thinking the dog will get some exercise and it will be less unpleasant for us. WRONG ANSWER. Retractables give your dog license to be out of control which is the problem with her on-leash behavior in the first place. And whose job is it to get pup under control? You guessed it! Someone once said, "When I see a dog behaving badly I look at the other end of the leash".

A tip: dogs need strenuous exercise, especially young ones. Pup will make a better walking partner if, while you're training her, you engage her in strenous activity before snapping on the leash. Try a few rounds of fetch in the yard - tennis ball, frisbee, whatever she'll chase. When she's panting and starting to slow down, snap on the leash and off you go.

All dogs need time to sniff and mark trees along the walking route, so allow them to do so. However, YOU are the one who should decide when that's okay and when it's not. I live on a pretty street where people love to walk their dogs and I'm always seeing owners who take their cues from the dog. Of course, this teaches the dog that she can do what she wants, because you will follow her lead. Don't allow that behavior!

It will take time and patience but you can teach her to look for cues from you as to what's next. Pat Miller, in her column "Good Dog Walking" in the March 2007 issue of The Whole Dog Journal, recommends using a clicker and treats to reward pup when she is walking nicely beside you on a loose leash. Begin by using the command, "Let's walk". This means that pup can do a little sniffing, peeing and exploring as long as she is not pulling on the leash.

Holding the clicker in your left hand and the treats in your right, move forward. When pup is beside you, click and treat. Bring your right hand around to her mouth. You don't want her to move around in front of you to get the treat. Click frequently in the beginning for being close enough that the leash hangs loosely between the two of you. Before long, she will realize that the treat comes when she is close by your left side. When she pulls out ahead of you, stop. Be a tree. Refuse to budge until she turns around to look back at you. As she does so, the leash will slacken. Click and treat.

If that doesn't work, back up slowly, increasing the pressure on the leash. As soon as she moves toward you, click and treat. When she has learned to stay close enough so that the leash is always slack you can begin to teach the "heel" command, which is a precise position next to your left leg used in close quarters of while walking among a group of people and dogs.

Don't give up! It's not safe for your dog or for you for her to ever get the idea that she's the one making decisions. You have to be the "alpha dog". Making the effort to be the leader is just part of having a pet dog.

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