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2011-07-30T09:52:00.001-07:00

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Teaching Kids Petiquette

2011-02-23T05:07:00.000-08:00

Who can upstage the combination of kids and dogs? They just go together. Remember Timmy and Lassie, Spanky and Petey, the list goes on. But unfortunately, there aren't too many Lassies, and fortunately, there was only one Spanky.

Statistics show that most serious injuries caused by dog bites involve medium to large breed dogs and children under the age of 5. The reality here is the dog is usually the family's pet, or a dog that the child knows well and has had contact with before.

Generally speaking, both the child and the dog need to be taught the dos and donts of proper behavior, as well as learning to respect each other for what they are. By this, I mean a child will play with a dog as though it is another child and the dog will play with a child as though it is another dog. But let's start with the scenario of a child meeting a non-family-pet.

1. A child should know to ALWAYS ask permission to pet a dog no matter how friendly the dog looks or acts.
2. A dog must be approached slowly. The child should extend their hand in front of the dog's face so the dog can smell the child.
3. Never pet the dog by reaching over its head. That is a huge mistake and one that I see all the time. It will often make the dog lift its head up and back and open its mouth. Sometimes "going over the top," as it is called, will be interpreted as a threatening gesture. Pet the dog under his chin.
4. Caution is advised when approaching a sick, injured, nursing or elderly dog.
5. Children should never run towards a dog or throw their arm around it.
6. Never tease a dog or throw things at it, it causes the dog to become agitated.
7. As a rule do not let your child take a toy or food away from a dog or bother it when it's sleeping.
8. Children must know without exception to never reach their hand out to touch a dog that is kenneled, in a car, in the back of a truck or behind a fence.
Do you have a dog and are expecting a new baby? If you are, I know you must have given thought to how to handle the dog when that joyous event takes place. Here's some help to alleviate or head off some of the issues that might arise.
1. Gradually reduce the time spent with your dog before the baby comes so that he will not feel neglected or rejected. If you know that your dog will need to be separated from you when you are attending to the baby in a particular room, start using that room for reading or relaxing, and do not allow your dog to be with you at that time.
2. Discourage your dog from jumping on furniture used for the baby before the baby comes.
3. Get your dogs accustomed to the smells of a new baby by applying baby lotions and powders to your arms prior to the baby coming home.
4. Slowly introduce baby related noises into the household to help keep your dog calm and relaxed when it's the real thing.
5. If your dog is your number one fan, try to have another household member take over some of the "dog" responsibilities and playtime bonding, a few months in advance of the baby's arrival.
6. Hire a responsible, overly-friendly, dog-loving dog walker before the baby comes.
7. Use the babies name when talking to the dog so he is familiar with it.
8. Even though I believe your dog will definitely know the difference between a real live human baby and a doll, try putting the baby lotion and powder on a blanketed or diapered doll. It will help to get your dog used to some of the routines of holding the baby in a blanket or walking your dog next to a baby stroller or carriage. You can put the baby scented doll in a car seat or feeding seat and teach your dog to "sit quietly next to but don't "TOUCH".

Ever wonder why your new puppy or dog is nipping your child and not you? Observe the interaction between the two and take note of how they play with each other. Does your child play tug-of-war with your dog? Did your child see you do that? Tell the truth! Well that is something dogs do with each other.

Does your child love to have your dog chase them? Again, something dogs do with each other. See the pattern. If the puppy thinks your child is another puppy, she/he will nip, jump on, scratch and bark at your child. Of course the puppy must be taught to have "social grace," but additionally your child must learn to handle the puppy/dog properly, by never teasing, hitting, pulling its tail or ears, startling, cornering, chasing, or inappropriately taking food or toys away. Here's a quick tip; if your child is sitting on the floor and the puppy is out of control, teach your child to stand up and turn away from the dog.

One more thing, dogs will always pick on the weakest of the pack, in this case...the pack being your family. Never mistreat your dog; he may in turn harm you child.

Little Dogs, Big Issues: Dealing with Behavior Issues

2011-02-23T04:42:00.000-08:00

When people think of "little," especially as it pertains to dogs, they think of cute, baby, sweet, innocent and less work.
Not so! Little dogs can have big issues so it's time to undo the fallacy that "little dogs are easier."

First, the Pros:
1.You can scoop them up and carry them anywhere.
2. Their "output" is smaller.
3. They can use wee-wee pads.
4. They eat less.
5. They're less destructive.
6. They're easier to walk.

Now, the Cons:
1. They need more care nutritionally - especially as puppies.
2. They are more susceptible to illness and complications like hypoglycemia and dehydration.
3. They tend to bark more than large breeds.
4. They don't like to go out in rain nor bad weather, nor do they like to walk on wet grass.
5. They are easily injured.
6. The smaller the dog the more difficult to train!

Now you're thinking, why did she say that? Don't get me wrong, I LOVE little dogs and have my own. But as a trainer, I get more calls from people with small breeds than large ones. I actually get calls about Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, Yorkies and other teeny beasts that rule the roost to the extent that their human families fear their snapping, biting and terrorizing of other members of the household. When I visit such a home, the owners may actually have the dog locked in a kennel because they're afraid it will bite me! This is not a joke, and getting bitten is certainly not funny. So if you have a situation like that, here's some advice.
Because of all the adjectives I mentioned, like cute and baby, people tend to carry little dogs around and pick them up when they're doing something wrong or annoying instead of trying to correct or teach them. You know the expression, "You can't be a little bit pregnant"? It means you either are or you aren't. When it comes to a dog's behavior for a dog, it's the same: he either can or he can't. If he does something wrong and is picked up, you just validated for him that he CAN continue that behavior. By holding him, you gave him affection for eating your Jimmy Choo shoes. You told him that barking and biting your leg was the way for him to get attention. So he will, without a doubt, keep doing it. The next thing to remember is, the higher the dog's head, the more he is in control. So 90% of the time when I go to a house with a small dog that is terrorizing everyone, his first instinct is to jump up on the highest part of a couch or chair so that he is now bigger than life. As soon as you get him off the couch, his attitude will change. If you're down on the floor with him in a puppy play position, he will take charge.
So what do you do? First, put a leash on him inside the house and keep him on the ground. Use a strong voice if he does something wrong, and tell him "NO." As soon as he stops, tell him "Good boy" and pet him. He'll get the idea. Little dogs also tend to get less exercise. Get out there and take that little guy for a walk, play ball with him, and stop letting him make his own decisions. He's a teenager testing his limits. Well it's time to take away the car keys!

It's a hard concept for most people to understand but dogs prefer structure and having a "place" in the family unit. Dogs are very smart and, big or little, they will do what ever they can get away with doing ... just like us.

A Visit to the Vet of all Vets

2011-02-23T04:34:00.000-08:00

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" I, too, was asked that question many moons ago. Often my peers would answer something to the effect of "a mommy," or, perhaps, "an actress." But, not me; I wanted to be a veterinarian - and still do.
This past week I came as close as I'm ever going to of having my lifelong dream come true. No, I am still not a vet, but I did walk through the hallowed halls of the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine and Hospital, as an invited guest, and now I share this experience with you.

Every aspect of in-depth, animal medical diagnostic investigation, prevention and cure is available at the Penn, all the way from X-rays to radiation oncology, toxicology, emergency and trauma treatment suites, organ transplants, brain surgery, dermatology and soft tissue surgery. Every illness, or suspicion of such, is entertained with the utmost in professional care and a spirit of healing, easing the heart of the human family connecting with all of man's best friends in the animal kingdom.

I was lucky enough to be guided through the Medical School and Hospital by Susan Miller, a wonderful Penn representative. Miller introduced me to the various departments, where I was allowed to peek at X-rays and listen in on discussions between students, doctors and professors regarding certain procedures.

I became very emotional as I walked into the Rosenthal Imaging and Treatment Center, where I was allowed to observe two women prepping a beautiful cat for radiation treatment. Tonya Foster, the radiation oncology nurse, explained that the cat had a malignant growth on his thigh and that positioning him for radiation treatment had to be exact. As I watched Tonya moving the cat's legs ever so slightly, again and again, making sure that the target area was in correct alignment, I knew that this cat was in the best hands possible. The anesthesia nurse, Kimberly Todd, monitored the cat's breathing and vital signs as she informed us that the cat's complete cooperation would not be possible without the use of anesthesia. The questioned was never asked, but I believe that the preparation took much longer than the actual treatment. The women worked in unison, complementing each other's professional expertise. But what amazed me the most was the look on their faces and the care and love they exuded as they performed their miracles on this sweet sleeping animal.

A short distance down the corridor, the hall was buzzing with students, nurses and doctors performing various surgeries. One of the radiologists shared viewing and reading pre-operative X-rays of a dog's shattered leg, which required surgical placement of a pin.

I followed Miller to the Exotics area, where, she further explained, we might get a glimpse of one or two zoo animals waiting for various procedures.

Unbeknownst to my wonderful host and guide, my tour ended with what felt like a fireworks finale. I was standing in the Penn, School of Veterinary Medicine Library. It took a lifetime, but I finally made it!

Today I was a guest, but I was not a stranger. When I'm looking for answers, I go to the U of P. From the moment I'm greeted in the parking lot by Sly Broxton to the consultation conducted by a fourth-year veterinary student, to the examination and diagnostic procedures performed by the U of P veterinarian, I am assured that quality of life is unequivocally everyone's game plan.

Lessons on Social Graces (No Paws on the Table)

2011-02-23T04:23:00.000-08:00

Just as the relationship between parent and child has changed over the years, from disciplinarian to a more relaxed friendship, so has the relationship between human and canine. With this change has come a born-again kind of love for dogs and the quality of their lives has become as important as any other family member. This is good thing; a very good thing. However, and there always is one, the dog, just like the child, must be taught to have social grace and to fit into our household routine. There have to be rules and regulations, schedule and boundaries and basically things that are OK and not OK for your dog to do.
Here are some tips straight from the trainer's mouth! One commonality I see in every household is "avoidance." In other words, if you avoid the situation you won't have to deal with it. So, instead of teaching your dog not to beg at the table during meals, you put him in his crate or another room where he is out of sight, out of mind. Another example would be guests coming into your home, your dog barks and jumps on them and is generally disruptive. What do you do? Again, he goes in his crate or another room to avoid the hassle and embarrassment.

What would I do? Glad you asked. I would have a "dress rehearsal." Don't wait for Thanksgiving to teach Harley not to beg at the table. Don't teach him how to greet people when your boss is at the door. These may be exaggerations but I know you get the point. Even during Wednesday night dinner everyone is tired from school and work and they're hungry and not in the mood to deal with Harley's antics. Never work with your dog when you're agitated. He will pick up on it immediately and become agitated as well. The lesson will be worthless.
Try to reenact the situations you want to correct. Put a collar and leash on Harley and bring him to a mat or dog bed somewhere in the kitchen, have him sit, lie down, and stay, and give him one of his chew toys. Then sit down at the table with a cookie...yours, not his. If he gets up to come to you, firmly tell him "NO," and nicely tell him to "go to place," take him there and redo the down/stay. Start with a few minutes and increase the length of time he stays, as you practice. Within a few weeks, he should understand going to his mat on command and staying there. "Go to place" is a great alternative to "go to your kennel." Use this exercise during other household activities like cooking or washing the floor.
OK, now for the front door scenario. Again, set up a dress rehearsal. Ask a neighbor or friend to stop by and ring the door bell and knock on the door. Tell your guest to "wait a minute." With Harley on collar and leash, door unlocked, have Harley sit/stay at least 15 feet away from the front door. Tell your guest to come in and stand just inside the door. When Harley proceeds to bark or jump, tell him "NO" and take him away from the door and into another room. Have him sit/stay there and let him calm down. Bring him toward your guest again but not all the way. The goal is to have Harley sit/stay calmly a few feet away from the guest. Then if desired, the guest can pet your dog UNDER his chin; not over his head, and continue into the house

Always remember to praise your dog for a good job. Affection goes further than biscuits and is always available.

It just takes patience and practice in order to condition your dog to respond in a desired way. Only 10 to 15 minutes each time is best; for both of you. What you are doing is teaching him to sit on the sideline. Not all family members participate in all family activities. The family dog should abide by the same rule.

Puppy-Proof Your Home

2010-12-31T08:52:00.000-08:00

If you have any experience with baby-proofing your home, it's not a far reach to puppy-proof it. If there are rooms where you absolutely DO NOT want your dog to enter, gates are the answer. They're available in every height and width; can be free standing, pressure mounted or wall mounted; and made of wood, metal or plastic. They range from inexpensive to high-end designer types. Once upon a time, when I was a kid, my father used two shutters placed about an inch off the floor. They swung back and forth like saloon doors and hooked in the middle to keep them closed. Actually, it wasn't a half bad idea. Just think how creative you could be with a little help from a home improvement center.
But as a dog trainer and dog lover, I must tell you that puppy-proofing starts with training. A dog, like any member of a household (and I throw that in for those of you who feel guilty restricting your dog's activities) must follow rules and adhere to boundaries from the beginning. If your dog is allowed to jump on the furniture, scratch the doors, run in and out of the house tracking dirt everywhere...well, you get the picture. Instead, by investing time in good old-fashioned training, you'll keep your home décor investments solid.
Get your dog used to the fact that you will clean his paws when he comes in the house. I really like the new Dremel devices that file your dog's nails. It helps to keep the wood floors from being scratched up, the carpeting from pulling and the couch from ripping.
If a puppy is destructive when you leave him alone, then confine him until you return. Do I think it's cruel to confine a dog? I will say that I do not condone kenneling all day - I think that is cruel. But using short periods of confinement while you teach your dog to have freedom without destructive behavior, is acceptable. Think about the alternative. You come home to find your house in shambles and then punish the dog or worse, send him to a shelter.
In addition to the perils of puppyhood, the major causes of destructive behavior in dogs are boredom and loneliness. Think of your dog as a restless kid with too much time on his hands. Play dates with friends (and their dogs) work wonders. The dogs get the added attention they crave while learning social skills. A dog park is another option for increasing your dog's activities - and it's fun for the rest of your family too.
Exercise is a great way for releasing pent up energy, which would otherwise be aimed at your favorite chair or pair of shoes. This does not mean the dog plays in the yard by himself. This means "together time" - long walks or playing ball so that Kahuna is neither bored nor lonely.
With commitment comes sacrifice, but the sacrifice doesn't have to be your furniture, just your time and love.

The Right Stuff: What to Feed the Dog

2010-12-31T08:36:00.000-08:00

"Take better care of your dog and save money at the same time."
Isn't that a great statement? Well, it's true. However, I can't take credit for it...the credit belongs to my friend Frank.

If you don't know Frank, I hope you know someone like him. He's that nice guy who can answer all your questions and concerns and he's willing to share what he has learned over the years of being in the pet business INSTEAD OF TRYING TO SELL YOU ANYTHING!

Before we even get into the ingredients and the nutritional value of dog foods, let's just hit the nail on the head, so to speak. Here's what Frank is trying to tell us. You cannot buy the top quality foods for dogs in a supermarket or big box store, but they are less expensive to feed to your dog than the cheaper ones because of the amount you need to feed your dog. Each food is different - you cannot compare bag to bag. You need to figure it out on a monthly basis. To add my own feelings about this, even if the supermarket brands were close in price to the "higher" quality foods found in private pet stores like Frank's, wouldn't you prefer to feed your dog a healthier, more nutritious food? I know I would.

Keeping all this in mind, anything that is in the ingredients before it gets to the brand company is NOT the responsibility of the branding manufacturer. In other words, if the fillers, which obviously make the food less expensive, are in the meat protein portion before it gets to the manufacturer, it would not be included on the bag. Look for "GRAIN FREE" dog foods. Grain free means less filler. Frank tells me that the single best way to find a good quality dog food is to look for the k/cal rating on the bag. It's not on every bag, but then again if it's not ON the bag maybe they don't want you to know what's really IN the bag.

K/cal are the metabolized calories - those are the good calories, as opposed to the calories from fillers. The higher the number of k/cals per cup, the less filler. Plain and simple! Did you notice everything in the analysis is measured in "Crude" protein, fats, etc.?
Look at the order of ingredients. Is corn the third on the list? How much corn can a dog live on? Is corn nutritious or is it just cheap? I must add my own pet peeve, excuse the pun. Did you ever see the dog food bags that say "produces dry condensed stool"? How could that possibly be healthy? Dry condensed stool is not normal. There is a common ingredient in that type of food which is allegedly "beet pulp" and allegedly removes water from the intestines to do this "drying/condensing" process in your dog's intestines. Yes, it may be more pleasant to scoop up, but what is it doing to your dog? And does this HIDE any underlying issues that would normally alert you to intestinal viruses that cause loose stool? Forcing your dog's intestines to process fillers and foods that are not easily digestible can wreak havoc on your dog's health.
Of course we all want what's best for our dogs. But putting that aside for a moment, think about the vet bills. Think about what the wrong foods can do to your dogs overall health.
What Frank and I are trying to tell you is that, as far as dog food is concerned, cheaper is not better - nor is it cheaper in the long haul. You'll end up paying not only with your wallet but with the health and happiness of your dog.

Not Just Guide Dogs, but Horses and Monkeys, too

2010-12-31T08:28:00.000-08:00

Those who know me well know that I can say with all honesty, "I never met a dog I didn't like." I admire each and every one of them from the family pet to the search-and-rescue dogs, as well as those who assist the physically disabled and bring a well being to the emotionally challenged. I want to give the deserved recognition to them as well as some of the other animals that not only bring us joy and companionship, but also do remarkable jobs to benefit and enhance our lives.

It has been shown that people who own cats are less likely to die from a heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases. The study examined data from 4,435 people, ranging in age from 30 to 75, participating in ongoing research with the National and Nutritional Examination Study conducted over a 20-year period. It's also been found that cat owners benefit from reduced levels of depression and stress. The cat's relaxed nature and soothing purring, like a mantra, segues into a tranquil coexistence for both. "Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later."

In 1999, an experimental program, called The Guide Horse Foundation, was started with the purpose of training miniature horses to assist visually impaired people. There is a critical shortage of guide animals and Guide Horses have shown great promise. They perform exceptionally well at keeping their blind companion safe and seem to be a wonderful alternative for blind horse lovers, those who are allergic to dogs, and those who want a guide animal with a longer lifespan. Many people who are afraid of dogs are often comfortable having a miniature horse to assist them. They are also strong enough to provide support for people with physical disabilities by helping them to rise from a chair or bed. Reports show that the Guide Horses demonstrate excellent judgment; like choosing a ramp instead of stairs, and are not easily distracted by crowds and people. Here's something I bet you didn't know. Guide Horses are very clean and can actually be house broken!

In a study, conducted by the Pine Street Foundation, a cancer research organization in California, compelling evidence showed that cancers hidden beneath the skin can be detected by dogs sniffing the odors of a person's breath. According to the foundation, dogs with only a few weeks of basic training learned how to accurately distinguish between breath samples of lung- and breast-cancer patients and healthy subjects. Previous studies have confirmed the ability of trained dogs to detect skin-cancer melanomas by sniffing skin lesions. Nicholas Broffman, executive director of the Pine Street Foundation, states that lung and breast cancer patients are known to exhale patterns of biochemical markers in their breath. Cancer cells, he goes on to explain, emit different metabolic waste products than normal cells, which can be detected by a dog's keen sense of smell, even in the early stages of disease.
Helping Hands: Monkey Helpers for the Disabled is a national nonprofit organization that provides highly trained monkeys to assist quadriplegic and other people with severe spinal cord injuries, with daily activities. The monkeys are raised and trained to act as live-in companions who will provide the gifts of independence, companionship, dignity and hope to the people they help.

The monkeys are trained to respond to a laser pointer and can pick up objects from the floor that would normally stay there until help arrived. They can open a refrigerator, retrieve a bottle of water, open the cap, insert a straw into the bottle, and put the bottle into its holder on the handicapped person's chair. They turn lights on and off, bring the telephone and remote for the TV, and do other tasks that would otherwise not be possible in the daily lives of people who can't, including putting in a CD or DVD, flipping pages in a book or magazine, scratching itches, and even warming up food in the microwave.

These wonderful loving animals are not only companions but they are the caregivers as well. They never cease to amaze me and have earned my utmost respect.

Holiday With Harley

2010-11-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

That wonderful time of the year is approaching; first Thanksgiving and then Christmas. But family time and festive time can become stressful time if you have an unruly out of control dog. So start now and be prepared when family and friends arrive to share in the holiday celebrations.
The best solution would be to train your dog to have acceptable manors and social skills like sitting when guests come into your home. Practice by asking friends or neighbors to come over, and have your dog sit when someone walks into your house. However, even though I can always be quoted as saying “Don’t wait for Thanksgiving to train your dog not to take food off the table”, I decided to offer a list of “band aids” for the occasion. I’m even going to give you the “whys”. First of all, time is running out, training and behavior modification is a work in progress and hiring a trainer is not always an option. But the most important reason is that holidays are the time of the year when emergency clinics are filled with dogs that have consumed foods like stuffing with raisins and handfuls of chocolate candy, that are toxic to them. Additionally, there is an increase in injured dogs, lost dogs and dogs hit by cars during Thanksgiving and Christmas due to the constant opening of doors by guests; especially children.

So, protect your dogs by finding a suitable place to keep them. If they are used to going in their crate, then that’s where they belong during the hustle bustle of your holiday party. Not the entire day, but when you need to a little decorum. Carving the turkey with an electric knife is not a good time for a Golden Retriever to be jumping up at kitchen counter.

Usually laundry or mud rooms are attached to the kitchen and they make an ideal place to keep Harley safe, comfortable and quiet. DON’T close the door. Use a gate and let him see what’s going on. Remove him from the situation without punishment. Not all members of the family participate in all activities.

One of my favorite online/catalog pet supply companies, Foster & Smith, has a portable pen for indoor/outdoor use. This works great especially for smaller dogs. The pens come in multiple sizes and are large enough for Harley to walk around, eat, play and even enjoy a little petting now and again as you can reach into it, so it makes a wonderful alternative to putting Harley in a crate.

Take your dog for along walk or run or exercise him before your company is due to arrive. Play ball or do something your dog really likes so he can get the attention he needs and won’t feel shut out of the day’s activities. Try to get some of that extra excitement calmed down because believe me he will definitely know that “something’s up” just by the preparation, change in daily routine and anticipation, body language or anxiety that you show as you prepare for your holiday dinner.

Feed your dog something special before Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is served. You know what your dog can safely eat but usually a little dry white meat turkey added to his regular meal will help to make him feel like he’s as special as everyone else invited to dinner. Just be aware that even a little bit of dry turkey can upset your dogs stomach…so if you know your dog is sensitive to food changes use a little warm chicken broth over his own usual food.

Give him something to do. Get a new supply of different and definitely long lasting bones, chew or toys just for this occasion.

Remember to include your dog in your pre-holiday planning. If you think that you will be inundated with family, cooking, entertaining and such, it might be a good idea to hire someone like a dog walker and work out a schedule for your dog to have a few outings.

Keeping your dog safe, happy and OCCUPIED is a win win for everyone.

Pet Food Labels: Confusing at Best, Deceptive at Worst

2010-09-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

I've been researching every source I can think of on the Internet to get an exact, spelled out definition of what exactly "Made in USA" means? How much of the product is actually made here, and does it contain foreign materials? I've been on the FTC website for about two hours and have called every phone number listed and then some, but only get recordings and no answers. It's doubtful now that anyone will return my calls even though I did leave several messages, and even tried pulling some weight by explaining within the designated message time, that I write a column for a New York magazine.

Then I decided to check out the labels on some of my clothing. Why? What does this have to do with pet food? Well, what I was thinking was, if I buy a dress that says "Made in USA" does that mean the material originated in the USA or somewhere else? Does that apply to food? If someone reading this knows the answer, please e-mail me and I will share it in another column.

Now I'm at the point where I give up and will tell you what I know and give you the addresses of the most helpful websites I've been able to find.
Thepetfoodlist.com lists pet food manufacturers alphabetically and discloses information as to where it is manufactured as well as where the ingredients come from, if it contains grains or glutens, if there have been recalls and so on. I am truly upset to find out that the dog food I've been using and believed to be what I call 100% USA food, was in part, manufactured by Menu foods, a Canadian company, and the major manufacturer of the tainted food during the last major pet food recall. They also have links to other websites like Itchmo and Pet Food Tracker that give information on Pet Food RECALLS or pet foods that have TESTED POSITIVE for CONTAMINANTS. Itchmo did have a notice of recall system that would automatically e-mail alerts to you if you registered with them.

There are also some marketing strategies and labels on pet food bags that really make me uncomfortable. As I would probably need a lot more space on the page than reserved for this column, I'll start the ball rolling and hope you will do a little investigating on your own. I'd love to know what you find out. These are some of my pet peeve words: natural, holistic and organic. Let's start with Natural, Nature's, Natura (not a typo) or any word that is altered to sound like Natural. What does that mean? Not artificially colored or treated. How about Holistic? How do you feel about that word? It means emphasizing on the whole of something rather than it's parts, i.e. holistic medicine that concentrates on the overall health of a person rather than focusing on one particular health issue. So how does this relate to our pet's food? Organic is last but not least as far as questionable application and how it is allowed to be used on a label. According to Oregon Tilth (tilth.org) organic certification is subject to four levels of certification and the level would dictate how it can be put on the packaging of food. Confused? Actually that's a good thing. It will make some of you read those pet food packages before you throw it in your shopping cart. Don't let the marketing of these foods give you a false sense of security because of the friendly, caring, "we love your dog and cat phrases" on the bag.

Doggie Daycare: A Solution for Working Parents

2010-09-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

Doggie Daycare. Just say the words and my head conjures up images of Eddie Murphy running after some kid in a superhero cape, wreaking havoc in Eddie's house like Hurricane Hanna. But unlike most of Eddie's movies, there's a lesson to be learned here, and that is, that Doggie Daycare is the answer to "Dear Jenna...I work all day and my dog is alone from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. I can't leave him loose in the house because he's so destructive. Do you think it's okay to keep him in a kennel all those hours? The answer is NO, it's not okay, so if you don't use a Doggie Daycare, at least find a responsible dog walker.

If your dog ever had any formal training, you might recall that he or she was really tired after an hour, even though the exercises were mentally and not physically challenging. Dogs need stimulation. They do get bored and they do get lonely. Doggie daycare offers all the things to your dog that kindergarten would offer to a toddler. Safety and wellbeing plus fun and learning are the perfect combination.

Ask for a tour of the facility. Find out if they hired some teenagers for playtime and walking or if the staff is experienced in handling dogs. How long are they in business and are they licensed? How safe is the facility? Is it clean? Are medical records required and must the dogs be up to date on vaccines? You don't want your dog coming home with kennel cough. Are the dogs separated into groups depending on temperament and size? Is there a menu of ala carte activities? Can they handle emergency situations? Are there indoor as well as outdoor provisions? Can you bring your dog for an hour and observe?

Think about going swimming at your favorite vacation hotel. How fun is that? Well, your dog will think so too, especially if your cherished canine is a lab or golden. Pet Hotels are sprouting up like 7/11s, so visit a few before you decide what to do. The questions are basically the same and I know you know what to look for. I was amazed at some of the facilities I've seen lately.

The hotel I was most impressed with is not in New York, but the woman who built it, a friend of mine, included things that even I would not have imagined possible. I will share some of the wonderful features she has incorporated in her magnificent pet hotel, but by all means, not all of these things are necessary for everyone's dogs to be comfortable, happy, safe and well cared for. Imagine this - each private room has a child's bed and mattress for your dog to sleep on, a T.V., and computerized nanny-cam so you can go onto the Internet from any computer while on vacation, and watch your dog live! I love that. The outdoor play area is covered with Astroturf-type ground cover with a built-in filtration system so the dogs never get dirty. Of course if they do, there is a grooming salon on premises. There is also an indoor pool that was more than inviting, a massage and therapy room, indoor playrooms, training rooms, and rooms I can't even remember.

The bottom line is, no matter what the "extras" are, your dog is better off in a safe and happy environment, whether it's for a few hours or a few days, and it's your job to check it out before you check him in!

Bird on the Wire? Dog on the Web?

2010-09-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Community Web sites are the latest craze and there is no denying that they will be here for some time. Even if you are not a conscientious member, and by that I mean, you devote at least some part of your day to reporting what you are thinking, where you are going, what you are doing and so on, you probably check in to see what everyone else is thinking and doing. It must be true that pictures are worth a thousand words because there are tons of them on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Plaxo and the like. It's a place for friends to share and to share friends. So why not include our best friends? Our dogs, cats, birds and whatever other creatures you've opened your heart, your life and your home to.

Yes, you can definitely put your dog on these Web sites for people. In fact, there are specific areas to share photos, profile info and stories, like the Dogbook section of Facebook. You can create a Dog Park and select yourself or one of your dogs to be the administrator of the Dog Park and invite people and their dogs. I admit I'm not completely clear on what this is all about as I have not tried it and probably will pass on this one, but if anyone reading this can e-mail me with how it works and what the purpose is I would be happy to consider giving it a whirl. This is one of those times that I want to say, "I couldn't make this stuff up," but somehow I guess I wish I did!

YouTube is another place to put all your greatest animal photo-ops and celebrated heart warming moments, out there for the public to see. It's a little less personal, as you may know, but it's that "15 seconds" in the spotlight that some of us crave.

However, the thing that all of these sites have in common when it comes to our "best friends" is that the canine, feline, rodent and reptile extensions of our families take a back seat to the human persuasion.

After a bit of investigating, I came up with some wannabe Facebook sites for pets and even though they're still social networks, but for people with pets, they offer the chance to become that stage mom you always wanted to be. You can actually register a profile for your special Fluffy, Buddy, Daisy and of course Murphy on...(no joke) cuteashell.com.

Here your pet can have his or her own profile with photos, invite friends, have a store, which is where your pet will rate products and, of course, where you can shop. The Thunderdome is where your pet can compete for cutest in his or her category and win prizes. There are services like grooming and veterinarians, adoptions centers and rescues for viewing and you can add a service if you have one to offer. I did check out other Web sites, devoted mostly to dogs, and each one has its own redeeming quality and something to offer but how many of these can you join and keep up with. In case you want to peruse them yourself and decide which one is right for you and your pet, here are some that you might like: United Dogs, Dogster, Vivapets, Cute Overload and Hot or Not for pets.

These social networking websites and cyber-playgrounds for dogs and other pets give rise to and validate the importance of the family pet in our society.

Creating a Safe and Sane Home with your Pet

2010-09-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

The definition of instinct is: to behave in a way characteristic of a species; natural, unlearned, predictable response to stimuli. Instinctual actions are in contrast to actions based on learning.

So whose instincts am I talking about here, ours or our pets?

The dog is just being a dog. He comes hardwired but we download new programs to help him assimilate into a human society. Our instincts on the other hand are controlled by our greater ability to reason, as well as our intelligence, conscience, experience, insight, emotions and need for accountability. Yet we will make an informed decision to ignore our gut feelings in situations of imminent danger. It has been documented that a woman will decide to ignore her gut feelings and enter an elevator with a stranger even if she's fearful of bodily harm from that person.

More often than I care to think about, I receive calls from people whose households are terrorized by their dogs. These people are truly afraid of the dog they live with. The more times I say it out loud the more I can't believe it. The dog may be following its instinct to control the pack, by mouthing, biting, barking, jumping, and scratching. The person is ignoring their instinct to be afraid and makes an educated decision to accept the dog's behavior and live with the fear and sometimes, the ultimate reality of being bitten, scratched and tormented by the dog.

Now I ask you, as I have asked myself many times, why would anyone choose to live with a dog, or cat or any other animal, that they are afraid of?

How many of us seek the thrills of a scary movie or an amusement park ride, even though our hearts may beat a little faster? We may sweat and close our eyes or even scream but we know that there's a safety valve waiting in the wings because when the lights go on and the ride slows to a stop, we will be okay. But believe me when I tell you that there is no safety valve on your dog. If he is biting relentlessly or shows persistent hostility as a puppy, he will not outgrow it. The cute stage will diminish rapidly when you or a family member becomes the target of his uncontrollable instinct to bite.

You must learn to pay more attention to your own instincts, as the signs are very obvious. Don't ignore them. If you think your dog's behavior is more than just the normal puppy prankster stage, the teething stage or the adjustment to a new home stage, talk to your veterinarian, the breeder the dog came from, or a professional trainer and don't dismiss the too rambunctious nipping stage with the belief it is only a stage and he will grow out of it.

Caution: don't rely on "happily ever after" TV families depicted as perfect dog/kid relationships. Not every kid completes a dog and not every dog completes a kid. They are two very distinct personalities and it's not improbable to assume that these personalities at times can clash. Many breeds that have been falsely acclaimed as the "perfect dog for children" have been unfortunately dethroned due to random and unprovoked bouts of aggression, especially directed at the children of the household. Surprisingly enough, Cocker Spaniels and Beagles have made the list. The rise in popularity carries with it a rise in "not characteristic to the breed" behavioral issues and has tarnished the "Golden" reputation of the beloved Retriever and his close best friend, the Lab. Is this due to over breeding and in breeding? My guess would be, it probably has a lot to do with it, but the circumstances, which the puppies live in during their first 2 months of life, probably play a big part in their development as well. Over crowding and lack of individual human attention, as well as taking puppies away from their mothers before they are ready to face the world, or have learned from their littermates as well as their mother to know their role in a pack society, can cause emotional problems and the inability to adjust to new environments.

A new puppy should be a joyful addition to your family. If you know in your heart that this is not the right situation for your family and you are concerned about leaving your children in the same room with the dog, trust your instincts.

Helping the Neediest, and Getting Rewards in Spades

2010-09-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

I want to share something with you. As a person well immersed and established in the "dog community," it thrills me that so many of you are familiar with my wonderful Murphdogs® and Kahuna Poodles. But, my canine family goes even further than that. I also have a group of special needs dogs. These are animals that were slated to be euthanized or not survive past a few weeks of life, due to physical, as well as emotional, challenges, neglect and a plethora of other, unfortunate circumstances. These precious ones count on me the most to go the extra mile and provide only the best duty of care possible.

So, welcome to my world: a world of tiny, little Murphdogs®, galumphing standard polka-dotted poodles and everything in between. They are perfect to me, no matter what, always loved and giving love in return. In our home, they have no worries or fears. No one is ever sad, hungry, thirsty, cold or alone. I tell you this because I know that I'm no rare breed. There are so many of you out there just like me who will never let a stray remain as such. To all my Hamptons' friends who try so hard to save the world one dog and one cat at a time, who open your hearts and your homes and provide safety, love and food, I thank you.

I also want to give recognition to some of the celebrities and people in the spotlight that have helped to raise awareness, make a difference and contribute to the wellbeing of our extended canine and feline families, especially the ones who still hope to become part of someone's loving home.

Allow me to tell you about one of my special dogs who suffered from itching, rashes, thinning of hair and low body weight. If that wasn't bad enough, he actually ate the hair off other dogs while they were sleeping! How strange is that? I then discovered that the only time I could quell this peculiar behavioral pattern was during the pet food recall, when I began to cook for him myself. Now, in a world given to time sparing, fortunately, for both of us, pet food regulations are more stringent and I have learned a lot about what goes into dog food, his hair eating days are a thing of the past. Best of all, his overall good health continues. I look for foods that have 100% USA ingredients. The first ingredient must be chicken, salmon or whatever meat protein you choose. I buy only food that hasplenty of vegetables and fruit, and no corn, wheat, gluten, by-products, rendered meats, fillers, antibiotics, steroids, chemical additives, preservatives, colors or dyes. Don't hesitate to call the manufacturer if you're in doubt.

But this is only one of many special dogs I have the pleasure of caring for; and his particular case is not nearly as severe or challenging as the others. I know there are so many people who have stories to tell, yet nowhere to find help, suggestions, or similar stories that can give relief where there seems to be none.

The spirit of giving must continue throughout the year and every year thereafter. With this in mind, Harley's Angels Inc. and Murphdog® & Company are in the process of constructing an interactive website to help families with "special needs" dogs. There, we will publish valuable information. It will be a self-help, network group where we welcome advice, warnings, time saving tips, as well as, happy and not so happy experiences.

Being Prepared for Pet Emergencies

2010-09-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

Better safe than sorry. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. My sister always told me to have a plan B and always be prepared. The latter may have been inspired by the Boy Scouts, but it was very good advice.

My advice to you is if you have a dog or cat, be prepared by having emergency supplies on hand. But as important as having the proper supplies is knowing when and how to use them. You may be surprised to find out that many of the items needed for your pet emergency kit are ordinary household items you may already have. Recognizing the signs your dog or cat may show when ill or injured is half the problem and administrating care is the other half. So before an emergency occurs, make a list and make an appointment to talk to your vet.

The Pet Emergency Pocket Guide™, written and edited by a team of veterinarians, experts in animal safety and pet owners, offers advice on planning ahead and locating care for your pets in the event of an injury, illness or emergency. Color-coded and illustrated sections show and tell what to do for your pets, before, during, and after an emergency. Some of the categories are: "How-to" first aid, including CPR and Heimlich; contact information for important emergency references; general care, including handling, grooming, muzzling and transporting; glossary of signs and conditions in dogs and cats; list of the most common poisonous and toxic foods; taking care of a sick dog or cat, and more serious condition; how to create pet emergency and shelter/evacuation kits; traveling with your pet, including preparing a travel kit; pet preparedness, including planning for natural disasters; current information on sheltering, since many shelters do not accept pets; and pet record pages to help document information such as allergies, vaccinations and surgeries.

Detailed information will guide you through injury and medical emergency situations like car accidents, collapsing or fainting, diarrhea that goes on for more than a day (especially in small animals), distended abdomen, electrical shock, eye injury or swelling, fever, frequent vomiting, frostbite, labor or birthing difficulty, loss of consciousness, neck injury, pale gums, paralysis or lack of coordination poisoning, seizures, straining to urinate and unproductive retching.

I know all of my fellow rescuers have their own brand of provisions put away in a Rubbermaid container in the event that a puppy is hypoglycemic, vomiting to point of dehydration or simply has a tick imbedded in its neck. I'm going to list a few of the things I keep in my stash and would love it if some of you would e-mail me a list of yours.

Some of the things I have are: tweezers, scissors, bandages, cardboard, Neosporin and triple antibiotic cream (not ointment), rectal thermometer and Vaseline, a bottle of Dawn antibacterial soap, Preparation H, alcohol, witch hazel, peroxide, PeptoBismol, antibiotic eye ointment, eye drops, Benadryl liquid, q-tips, cotton pads, Pedialyte, chicken broth, jarred baby chicken puree, frozen chicken cutlets, Minute Rice, baby rice cereal, Karo syrup, Esbilac puppy formula, rubber coated baby spoon, insulin syringes without the needles, and an eye dropper bottle.

NB: It is NOT intended or recommended that you treat your pet yourself in lieu of seeking the care of a veterinarian. It is recommended that you meet with your veterinarian and discuss what you may be able to do for your pet in the event that a medical problem arises and veterinary care is not available, your pet needs immediate medical attention, or until you reach an emergency clinic.

2010-04-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

Dog with Arthritis? Try Hydrotherapy (i.e.- your pool)

By Jenna Robbins

Arthritis is a common ailment of older dogs, affecting one in five dogs over the age of seven. The condition affects the joints and causes pain and stiffness in the neck, hips, shoulders, elbows and back.

However, there are many things you can do at home to bring relief and reduce the stress-related issues that come with discomfort. Change your dog's diet. Provide a high-quality dog food with no added preservatives, colorings, wheat, corn or soy, and has low fat and fewer grains or carbs. Keeping your dog at a good weight for its breed and size is beneficial to overall healt and puts less pressure on the knees and hips. Provide supplements that reduce arthritic swelling and pain. I have always seen positive results with Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate with my own dogs (and my own personal experience as a six-time victim of Lyme's Disease and one-time victim of Ehrlichiosis). This supplement helps lubricate the joints and eases mobility. Combined with Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) it has been shown in studies to relieve arthritic pain, slow joint deterioration and reduce inflammation with no negative side effects. As always, talk to your veterinarian before beginning any diet change or supplement.
Exercising is also important. If possible, take your dog for several 10 to 15 minute walks each day rather than one long walk. Also, if possible, take your dog swimming - a great exercise without joint stress.
Keep your dog warm and cozy with a soft bed and extra blanket. Beds made specifically for joint-ailing dogs are gel filled or can be heated. Moist heat - hot water bottle with warm water or a towel soaked in warm water and wrung out, can provide welcomed relief. Heating pads may get too hot, so supervise their use. If your dog usually stays outside, provide an insulated doghouse with soft bedding facing away from the wind. If possible, bring him in when weather is too cold or wet.
Raise your dog's food and water dish. This one's easy enough. If your pet has arthritis in its neck or shoulders, avoid having them bend their head down to eat.

And who doesn't love a good massage? Gently rub around the affected joint and surrounding muscles.Your touch is always a welcomed treat that soothes the body and mind. Finally, use a ramp since dogs with arthritis have difficulty walking up and down the stairs. Using a ramp for easier access to the back of your SUV can be a great help for both of you.
Treat Me Kindly: A Dog's Bequest
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps fall upon my ears.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my pan filled with water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and good sight, do not make heroic, efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I drew, that my fate was always safest in your hands.

No Joe for Fido - and Other Dangers for Dogs by Jenna Robbins

2010-03-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

The moment a puppy, older or rescued dog comes into our homes and into our hearts, we must take full responsibility for his or her health and well being, socialization skills by giving it an abundance of love, understanding and guidance. Your dog's life is dependant upon you and- at the risk of sounding heavy - sometimes it's matter of life or death.
For some of us, caring for a puppy or older dog comes naturally and some of us will learn as we go; but it should never be at your dog's expense. You never want your dog to pay the penalty of trial and error, as some errors cannot be undone.
An accident waiting to happen may not be obvious and can be hiding out in plain sight, like plants that you would never suspect are poisonous. Less obvious hidden dangers may be lurking behind closed cabinet doors and come in the form of: prescription drugs, household chemicals and insecticides. Last but not least, the least obvious offenders that appear relatively benign may actually prove to be just as toxic to your dog. These items, manufactured and marketed for human consumption, may be found in family households and supermarkets. And even though you could never imagine a dog would chow down on clothes detergent, you never know.
Because love, a meal and a warm blanket are not enough, keep the following information handy in your kitchen or taped inside a cabinet door for quick reference. This is by no means a complete list of all the hazards that need to be eliminated, but rather an informative beginning to a subject that might have us thinking to ourselves, "Hmmm. I didn't know that!"

WORST FIRST:
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are highest on the list for cases of poisoning. Painkillers, cold medicines, antidepressants, vitamins and diet pills can be lethal to dogs and cats, even in small doses. Even dog friendly pharmaceuticals must be dosed incorrectly by your veterinarian. Please check first before giving your dog or cat any medications.

Household cleaners and chemicals are highly toxic. Detergents, stain removers, soaps, disinfectants, antiseptics, bleach, antibacterial agents, toilet/drain/oven cleaners, mold and mildew removers, counter, floor, and window cleaners, as well as personal bathing, shampooing and hygiene products may be exceedingly harmful to our pets. Any chemical used for care of a car, lawn, swimming pool, septic tank or cesspool should be considered highly toxic and handled and stored appropriately.

Pest control and insect repellents are not only toxic when consumed directly by your dog or cat but the consumption of a poisoned animal can result in secondary poisoning. Fly bait, mothballs, ant traps may look like chew toys to your dog. Flea and tick powder mosquito repellents used by humans and pets can be highly toxic. Oral tick and flea control as well as heartworm medications should be stored safely - especially since they're made to be tasty to your pet.

Indoor and outdoor Plants, whether common year round household variety or seasonal holiday specialty plants, pose a danger if ingested. It is imperative that you know the species and recognize the symptoms of poison in case your dog or cat decides to dine on any them. Some of the names you may recognize are: lilies, azaleas, rhododendron, schefflera, kalanchoe, sago palm, ferns, ivies, hyacinth, narcissus, daffodil, oleander, dieffenbachia, jasmine, mistletoe, poinsettias, and Easter lilies - which can be fatal to cats.

Dogs are not people too, and they cannot safely consume every type of food that we take for granted. Here's a few you may not be aware of: alcohol, avocados, candy, chocolate (baker's and dark being the worst), coffee, tea, onions, garlic, grapes, macadamia nuts, raisins, salt, green potatoes and potato skin, apple seeds, fruit pits, dietary products including sugar-free gum, caffeine and tobacco.

Small enough to swallow doesn't mean it's harmless. Beware of pennies from the 1980s to present day, which contain zinc. Zinc toxicity can result from the ingestion of one single penny. Independent of the date, be scrupulous about keeping all coins out of your dogs reach.
It's hard to remember all the details outlined in this column. So, the quick and easy way to puppy proof your home, for the love and longevity of a happy pet, is as follows:

1) Make a list of "undesirable" products

2) Make these products inaccessible to your pet

3) Keep your vet's phone number posted - better still, memorize it

4) Ask your vet for his 24-hour emergency referral phone number and address, and know how to get there. If you have a GPS, store the information.

5) Keep your local Poison Control office number posted or call the ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER 888-4ANI-HELP (888-426-4435). A $50 fee may be charged to your credit card.
Remember: Don't replace enjoyment with fear and anxiety. Just learn to love your pet within a sphere of safety and wellbeing.
Questions? thoughts? email Jenna@MurphdogMagazine.net