Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Many of our dogs' unusual behaviors come from instinctual tendencies. Learn about some popular theories behind the most common and unusual dog behaviors.
Many of our dogs’ comical or unusual behaviors stem from instinct. Dog's wolf ancestors lived in the wild and fended for themselves, so every action had a specific purpose. Although today’s pet dogs are domesticated, they are still animals, and many of their wild urges and behaviors come to the surface during playing or feeding. Here are some common questions about dog behavior and possible explanations for dogs' actions: 1. Why do dogs eat grass? Certainly, he is not a cow, so why is he chewing on the lawn? A popular explanation is that dogs eat grass when they have an upset tummy because it helps them to vomit, purging them of whatever is making them sick. If you are worried about your dog’s grass intake, try adding some veggies—such as…
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Pet Airways is a pets-only airline that will fly your pets and ensure their safety and comfort throughout the journey.
Did you ever want to take your pet on vacation with you, but couldn't bear to let him travel in cargo? Now there is an airline just for pets that will fly your cat, dog or small animal in the cabin of the plane! Flying with pets is a subject of much debate in the pet world. Although many pet owners consider their pets to be a part of the family, most airlines, unfortunately, do not share that point of view. Airlines typically have strict requirements that often prevent pets from travelling with you in the main cabin. Many airlines require your pet to be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel under the seat in front of you. In addition, some airlines restrict certain breeds of dogs from boarding a plane. If you are lucky enough to …
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Head collars such as the Gentle Leader and the Halti are a safe and effective way to prevent your dog from pulling on the leash.
Walking a dog who pulls on a leash can be an anxious and frustrating experience. A walk should be pleasant for both parties, rather than a constant battle of wills between dog and owner. It is never safe for your dog to be pulling you down the street and it is certainly not enjoyable. Most dog owners initially start out walking their dog with a regular leash and flat collar. For owners of “pullers,” this is often not enough. When your dog pulls, he feels the pressure of the collar against the front of his neck and his instinct is to resist by pulling forward. This is where regular collars fail to discourage pulling and can actually be counter-productive by encouraging the dog to pull even more. There are plenty of walking devices …
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Learn about the risks of rawhides and decide what kind of rawhide is best for your dog.
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and can provide stimulation and ease anxiety. It can also support good dental health by scraping tartar off dogs’ teeth. If you have ever found a destroyed couch or shoe, you know how helpful it can be to have something on hand to keep your dog busy. The popular image of a dog chewing an animal bone might look good in a cartoon, but in fact bones can be very dangerous for dogs because they can splinter. It is important to provide your dog with something safe to satisfy his urge to chew. Rawhides are essentially the hides, or skin, of a cow or pig. The animal's hair is removed and the skin is washed and dried. The result is a hardened skin comparable to leather. Some rawhides are basted in beef, …
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Reduce your dog's risk for cancer and learn how you can support the fight against this disease.
"The passion that moves us forward is from experiencing what cancer really does to the ones we love. We are driven because there is a hole in our soul where once was the love of our dog." - Gary D. Nice, CEO of National Canine Cancer Foundation Any dog owner can imagine how heartbreaking it would be to learn that his or her dog has cancer. I was astonished to learn that cancer affects one out of every three dogs, and that of those, over half will ultimately succumb to it. Older dogs are at a greater risk. It is the leading cause of death in dogs over age 10. As with humans, cancer can attack dogs suddenly and aggressively. There is no one cause of cancer, but we do know that environmental and hereditary factors play a part. It is a common …
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Make your own dog toys using ordinary household items that can entertain your pooch and save you money.
Dog toys don't have to be expensive purchases. There are many toys that you can make at home, and which your dog will like just as much. Here are instructions for making a few basic toys for your pup. Please note that you should always supervise your dog when he is playing with any homemade toys. Never include pieces that could choke or strangle your dog. If your dog starts to destroy the toy or eat portions of it, take the toy away and make a newer, sturdier version. Get creative but always keep your dog's safety in mind! 1. Fleece Braid Tug Toy These toys are often sold in pet stores for up to $15 but they are quite easy to make at home and can be fashioned from various materials. You can use denim, fleece or even an old T-shirt, but …
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Follow these simple steps to ensure that your dog looks good and stays clean.
It only takes a little bit of time and effort to keep your dog healthy and clean. Although some dogs may not love being poked and prodded, grooming can actually be a pleasant bonding experience for owner and pet. Be gentle, use a soothing voice and supply praise and treats during and after every grooming session to show your dog that you are doing this out of love and not out of punishment. If you get into a routine of regularly bathing and cleaning your dog, you are guaranteed to be pleased with the results—a healthy, fresh and clean pet! 1. Dental Hygiene Just like people, dogs can get plaque and tartar buildup, which can be detrimental to their oral health. Dental procedures for dogs can be extremely costly so it is in your best …
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Losing a pet is devastating, but it is important to stay calm and take the appropriate steps to increase your chances of finding your furry friend.
Last weekend, my brother lost his beagle mix, George, in New Orleans. They were swimming in the river when a current pulled George downstream. A group of kids told him that they saw a brown dog running around but we are not positive it was George. We are all extremely devastated and are working hard to do everything possible to locate this sweet boy. I have spent the past week advising my brother on the appropriate steps to take and I feel that every pet owner should know what to do when a pet becomes lost. The feeling of not knowing where your dog is or whether or not he is safe is incredibly painful and brings many emotions—panic, fear, regret and guilt, just to name a few. But, the first 24 hours after losing a pet are critical. Rather …
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
It is a good idea to be prepared for anything when you bring your four-legged friend on the road.
Smart travelers know how important it is to be prepared when on the road. Flat tires, dead batteries and bad weather can lead to major headaches on long trips. But, when your dog is coming with you on a road trip, it is particularly important to have a special kit ready for when disaster or mishap strikes. Here's what should be in that kit: 1. Extra food Keep a small supply of dry food in the car. Be sure to check the food regularly to make sure it has not expired, and keep it out of direct sunlight. 2. Blanket If your car dies in the winter or you get stuck in a snowstorm your dog could suffer tremendously! Always keep a blanket in your car for you and your dog. Foil heat blankets are compact and easy to travel with. 3. Travel bowl for …
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Tips for finding a reliable sitter to care for your furry family member when you travel.
Trusting someone else to watch your precious pooch can be extremely daunting, particularly for over-protective pet moms like myself. I was faced with a near-crisis when I found out my usual pet sitter was unavailable to watch my dog during my upcoming week-long vacation in August. After exhausting all the usual options (family friends, trusted neighbors and business associates), I was left with a serious choice to make: board Kaya or find a new pet sitter to stay in my home and care for her. After years of doling out pet care suggestions it was time for me to take my own advice and find a good pet sitter for my baby. Anxious pet owners should know that there are reliable, animal-loving pet sitters out there. However, you do have to take …
Mindy Landau
7:07 am on Thursday, December 1, 2011
"Pawsengers" - I love it! more ›