Kamis, 20 November 2014
our new puppy Suzy and her 2 sisters!
I went to visit the puppies today. They are 5 weeks old now and SO cute. They are playing and chewing and so interested in everything. We dont know which pup will be ours yet - the breeder will choose when they are 8 weeks old. We just know now that it will be one of these three females. There is one brother in the litter, too (not in this photo). More puppy pictures: my Flickr site
Not to be outdone, heres a photo of Skippy today. He had a nice walk along a lake shore with quick swims every few minutes of the way.
Selasa, 18 November 2014
Rainy days
My dog and I are pretty set in our ways, and our morning routine doesn’t change much.
After I’m dressed and ready to leave for work, Sensi and I walk down the hallway and make a right at the foyer.
I open the door, hook Sensi to the chain and send him outside to take care of his business.
I make a sandwich for lunch while he’s outside, and when I’m done he’s waiting by the door. As soon as I unclasp him from the chain, he runs full-speed toward the laundry room and waits eagerly by his food bowl.
After I feed him, I make myself coffee while he eats. Then he watches me with big sad eyes as I put my coat on and walk toward the door.
“You be a good boy today,” I say, patting him on the head before leaving the house.
Today was different though, and I knew it would be as soon as I saw Sensi staring out the bedroom window.
It was the noise of the rain that prompted him to jump down from the bed and look outside. He didn’t like what he saw.
Sure enough, as we exited the bedroom and got to the front door, I doubted he would go outside.
“Are you gonna give it a go?” I asked him, hooking the chain to his collar.
He peeked his head out the door and immediately backed up, stepping further into the house and looking at me with this, “No way am I going out there,” expression.
I unhooked his chain. There’s no point in forcing him. He won’t step off the porch when it’s raining.
So he had breakfast instead, and apparently, the bathroom wasn’t going to wait. He begged to go outside.
I shook my head at him, “It’s still raining outside pal.” But I let him out anyhow.
While I was watching, he didn’t step off the porch. He must’ve ventured into the rain at some point though, because when he came back inside, he was wet and absolutely full of piss and vinegar — throwing himself on the carpet and rolling around violently, trying to get himself dry.
Is this normal or am I the only dog owner out there whose dog hates the rain so much?
Read More..
After I’m dressed and ready to leave for work, Sensi and I walk down the hallway and make a right at the foyer.
I open the door, hook Sensi to the chain and send him outside to take care of his business.
I make a sandwich for lunch while he’s outside, and when I’m done he’s waiting by the door. As soon as I unclasp him from the chain, he runs full-speed toward the laundry room and waits eagerly by his food bowl.
After I feed him, I make myself coffee while he eats. Then he watches me with big sad eyes as I put my coat on and walk toward the door.
“You be a good boy today,” I say, patting him on the head before leaving the house.
Today was different though, and I knew it would be as soon as I saw Sensi staring out the bedroom window.
It was the noise of the rain that prompted him to jump down from the bed and look outside. He didn’t like what he saw.
Sure enough, as we exited the bedroom and got to the front door, I doubted he would go outside.
“Are you gonna give it a go?” I asked him, hooking the chain to his collar.
He peeked his head out the door and immediately backed up, stepping further into the house and looking at me with this, “No way am I going out there,” expression.
I unhooked his chain. There’s no point in forcing him. He won’t step off the porch when it’s raining.
So he had breakfast instead, and apparently, the bathroom wasn’t going to wait. He begged to go outside.
I shook my head at him, “It’s still raining outside pal.” But I let him out anyhow.
While I was watching, he didn’t step off the porch. He must’ve ventured into the rain at some point though, because when he came back inside, he was wet and absolutely full of piss and vinegar — throwing himself on the carpet and rolling around violently, trying to get himself dry.
Is this normal or am I the only dog owner out there whose dog hates the rain so much?
Senin, 17 November 2014
Retired Nottinghamshire Police Dogs to be looked after in retirement
Nottinghamshire police dogs are to be given their own pensions worth up to £1,500 each, which comes into play next month.The scheme is the first of its kind in the UK and will ensure the animals have medical bills paid for them after they retire which, in my opinion, has been long overdue. It is however limited to £500 per year for veterinary expenses for maximum of 3 years.
Nottinghamshire Police officers including those who work with the forces 26 dogs welcomed the move – saying they see the dogs as fellow cops.
YOUR DOG OWNS YOUR DOOR AND JUMPS ON GUESTS
Well guys, were to start? Training you say…yeap…but not your dog…we start with training you! And you will coach your dog from the position of Pack Leader.
So let’s get started.
The first thing you need to know is that if you ask your dog the right way your dog will stop jumping on guests. We don’t have to train him for this we just have to communicate with him properly.
To start - you need to realize that nothing you say will have any affect if you do not first train yourself to be aware of your own state of being. I would make a guess that at this moment, every time you have guests ring that door bell, you anticipate that your dog will jump all over your guests. Just anticipating this makes you tense, upset, frustrated. But you know what…you are adding and abetting the situation! You are being reactive - that is not coaching and mentoring your dog, but it is matching your dogs excited state - you see where the problem is? Dogs dislike hypocrisy even more that humans do! Your emotional state feeds your dogs state.
Please read this to get a head start on understanding the psychology of your relationship with your dog...
How Dogs Assign Respect
and
Sensitvity of Dogs
Once you have had a chance to read these articles (to do so will only take you a matter of minutes) you can better understand what follows…
I teach my clients how to own the door & establish a boundary around it, I show the dog its boundary. While doing this I teach the people how their screaming, yelling & various other methods of instructing their dog to stop barking is hypocritical - as they (the people) are also excited & barking! I show them how to do all this without speaking, I show them how their excited state fuels their dogs excited state & within a matter of minutes - viola! Everyone understands, sanity & balance is restored & everyone is happy! This actually gets its first go, when I walk through the door - as soon as I enter the house (barking, excited dog owning door greetings are typical) - I do not talk, I walk in calm, confident with the expectation that my person, my space will be respected. I communicate to the dog (without talking) where there place to sit or stand is, peoples jaws drop & they ask how did you do that, what did you do? and my dog has never behaved so polity before or calmed down so fast?
Setting your expectations, possessing calm confidence, patience, will and persistence is everything! Tugging, pushing, dragging your dog is engaging in an argument with your dog - this is not providing direction...and again you are engaging, reinforcing and matching your dog’s state.
To stop unwanted behaviour, you have to completely disengage your emotions and instead engage yourself as you would in your job - to work to a goal in a logical calm and deliberate manner.
You need to coach and mentor your dog, not argue with it.
Think for a moment about the tools and strategy that your dog uses to take over your space and your guest’s space - your dog uses its body. You need to use the same tool he does - use your body to herd him out of the space while using your calm, confident state of being to support what you do with your body.
While working with your dog on this issue avoid looking, touching and talking as much as possible as he likely sees all of this as an invitation to engage. You do not want to engage with him - you do not want to argue or debate with him - you want to direct him...there is a vast difference!
When that door bell rings...concentrate first on your dog - your guests will have to wait...if you don’t set the framework before they enter you will not be able to control your dog...
ONE
Use your body to herd your dog out of the space - back it out of your space by walk into the space it occupies or use your body by just leaning in or toward your dog, or use your hand/arm to point them away. The technique you choose just depends on what works well for you & your dog and how committed your dog is to taking over the space.
When you are herding and directing move calmly and deliberately - not frantically. Frantic is what your dog is - you have to be the polar opposite. Firm, in-control movement. This is very important.
Persist with patience - also very important. Remember your dog has been doing this for a long time - adjust your expectation to understand that it will take a little effort to get him to stop being pushy - you need to have a stronger will than he has.
TWO
Get your dog to sit where you want him to - establish an architectural boundary - a change in the flooring from tile to carpet for instance, or just establish a point at least 6’ away from the door.THREE
Now turn towards the door and in your thoughts expect your dog to stay were you have placed him…expect…but sense if he starts to move back into the space by the door - if he does use your body to block him and heard him back. This is the follow through - very important. This reinforces to the dog that no matter what, the outcome will always be the same. When you do this you are taking on a leadership role that your dog can and will respect.
FOUR
Follow through. Make sure your dog stays out of your private space. If your dog moves back in, just back him out - be more persistent and committed than he is - this is a psychological test of wills - your will to succeed must be stronger, fuelled by patience. FIVE
Tell your dog what you want it to do (i.e. sit, lie down or leave the space & go elsewhere, etc.) SIX
Now answer the door - once again expect what you want not what you have experienced in the past;If your dog starts to come forward repeat the follow-through;
Your guests are to ignore your dog’s presence - no talk, no touch, no look - very important or they will engage your dogs excitement;
They should not interact with your dog at all until and unless it is calm;
Own your guests - they are your guests not your dogs - make sure he stays back until you wish him to greet the guests and only when he is calm.
This takes practice. You have to be patient and calm-confident. When things start to get out of control - STOP. Take a breath and herd your dog back. It is the human that requires training - once you have control of yourself, your emotions and the way you move, you can instruct your dog.
The biggest mistake people make...
One - not controlling their own emotions;Two - not providing full direction. Providing comprehensive direction = attention, direction, correction and follow through;
Three - dont whine and complain to your dog (I wish you wouldnt do that, Oh, stop that etc.),
Four - not stopping! If your dog is not behaving, not listening, stop what you are doing, don’t keep moving forward - stop and address - then continue.
Remember…
Most dogs, will instinctively know what they are being asked to do if they are communicated with & shown in the right way at the right time & provided with the right tools to navigate safely & confidently through situations.
If the dog’s guardian has not learned how to read their own dog, is not aware of their own emotions, tone, etc, at the time that they are interacting with their dog - the message that they are trying to give their dog can end up being completely different than what was desired. The impact of such inadvertent mistakes in handling communication can be profound and exponentially harmful.
Further to that, too many people rely solely on ‘voice ‘to communicate with their dogs. People communicate to their dogs constantly via their own state-of-being, position of their body, the scents arising from emotional state. Dogs use their senses (sight, scent sound) more keenly and consciously than people do. They read stress & emotion in people before a person is even aware of how they themselves feel. A little tension in a persons shoulder, clinching of a hand, tightness of the lips, narrowing or widening of the eyes, change in breathing, sweating). Most people have not trained themselves and as such are totally unaware that they are communicating all this information. The impact of this is also far-reaching.
A dogs `natural `kit-of-tools` for communication - scent, sight, sound, their own state of being, the position of their body (or parts thereof), touch & voice is comprehensive. When a human does not know how to beneficially & consciously use these tools to communicate & relies on voice only the result on any dog, more so on a very sensitive dog, can be traumatic.
As humans we habitually approach/react too often from a raw state of emotion – this is an approach that can instantaneously overwhelm the more acute senses of a dog. I firmly believe that gaining an awareness of how you as an individual have habitulized this normal ‘modern-day human’ approach is key to having a better relationship with your dog.
Dogs require coaching as do their human guardians to support & enable the best in each other & their relationship. Dogs require that their humans be sensitive and aware Pack Leaders – not dominators. There is a profound difference between dominating your dog and providing it instead with the right type of Leadership to suit the dog as an individual & a breed.
The humans approach & investment of time & energy into the dog-canine relationship can have an enormous impact on the dogs psychological, adaptive, etc. development. Breed matters to some degree, but I believe the over ridding factor is not breed it is the individual dogs access to the right learning environment. Hey, much like it is for people too!
The expectation of many people is that their dog will inherently respect them. It is an erroneous expectation and assumption, based on a cultural belief rather than on psychology and the reality of the situation. It is also the first place where the human-dog relationship can really get off-track. When the expectation is not fulfilled, the human can become upset, frustrated at best. The negative impact on the psychological health of the dog can be profound.
Additional Assistance
If you require additional support and guidance I would be pleased to assist you via my In-Person or On-Line Services…
Dog Obedience Training and Behaviour Modification Services:
- In-Person sessions are available via this service
- On-Line consultation and sessions are available via this service
Diet, Nutrition Wellness Services:
- Unbiased Diet, Nutrition, Product Advice is available via this service
- Holistic Diet, Nutrition Wellness Plans are available via this service
Notes:
Please note - this article is for information purposes and is not a substitute for an in-person Session with me. When working with dogs I use many techniques - it is important to note that this article may touch on one or several techniques but not all. I select the technique that I use for a particular dog based on my observations of the dog and an intuitive, instinctive assessment of that dogs and its humans individual requirements. For example when I am working with a dog that is hyper sensitive and very physically reactive I will not use voice or touch. I use a lot of therapeutic touch on some dogs, others require the use of herding techniques and so on. Each and every technique must be combined with:
- an understanding of the real intelligence, sensitivity and capability of dogs;
- an understanding of how to read a dogs face and a dogs overall body language;
- an understanding of the full spectrum of ways that humans communicate and dogs communicate;
- understanding and recognition of the individual that is each dog - no two dogs are the same...taking a cookie cutter approach to techniques is not the way to work with a dog;
- a complete recognition and understanding of all the elements that feed a behaviour and create an issue:
- the vast majority of people can only identify one or two elements...which vastly inhibits the ability to resolve behavior issues;
- behaviours do not exist in isolation - there are always many elements that feed a single behaviour, there all always multiple behaviours that create a behavioral issue;
- self-restraint and discipline on the part of the human who is directing the dog;
- sensitivity, awareness, intuition, instinct and timing on the part of the human who is directing the dog;
- to understand, connect with and adapt quickly and effectively to a dogs learning requirements you must be able to employ the same tools a dog uses - acute sensitivity, awareness, instinct, intuition and timing;
- kindness, endurance, consideration, patience, persistence, perspective, the ability and know how to let the past go, the ability to set realistic expectations at any one point in time;
- the creation of structure, rules, boundaries and limitations for each situation at the macro and micro level;
- understanding of all the elements that make up an instruction and direction to a dog...there are multiple steps involved in an instruction - not just one!
- absolute honesty - if you cannot be honest with yourself you will not be able to communicate clearly with a dog.
These are just some of the techniques that I teach my clients - it is a holistic, all-encompassing approach. If you are missing any one element of the above mentioned your success rate will be affected to one degree or another in implementing the techniques offered in the article presented above.
Doggie dental health
We’ve all had the experience of being around a dog with such wretched breath that it turns your stomach from even a few feet away.
Generally speaking, when a dog’s breath smells that bad, it’s a more serious problem than a dental chew bone can take care of. Usually, it’s a sign that the dog’s teeth have begun rotting.
If the bad breath smell and the fact that your dog’s teeth are or may begin rotting isn’t enough to encourage you to take care of your dog’s canines, then perhaps knowing that regular dental care can add years to your dog’s life is.
Sensi is now approaching his senior years and his breath has begun to get a bit smelly. For years, I relied upon brushing his teeth with doggie toothpaste and a regular toothbrush every once in a while.
Nowadays, I brush his teeth more than just once in a while — once a week, is more like it. If I can prevent that smell from worsening, it’s worth the five or ten minutes it takes to give his teeth a good brushing.
Plus, God knows I want to keep him around for as long as possible. If a weekly brushing can add a year or two to the time I get to spend with him, I’ll do it.
Even if you regularly brush your dog’s teeth, there’s still an extra measure you may want to consider.
Your veterinarian can perform a full dental cleaning service on your dog’s teeth. Think of it in terms of people — we get our teeth cleaned once a year, why not do the same for our dogs?
And just think of how much more useful the service is to our dogs, who don’t brush their teeth twice a day, floss to get out all that kibble stuck between their chompers or use a mouthwash to keep things fresh in there.
Let me note here too — don’t use human toothpaste, mouthwash or even flavored floss (if you think you might actually be able to floss your dog’s teeth anyhow!) on your dog. It can be poisonous for them. Buy doggie-specific products.
Back to the teeth cleaning service at the vet’s office though — it’s expensive. It usually runs around $300.
Why so expensive? One word: anesthetic.
Think about it. In order for vet to do a thorough cleaning of your dog’s mouth, he or she has got to be able to get that mouth open and get it to stay open without that wagging tongue trying to lick those human fingers away.
So, anesthetic is needed to put the dog out for awhile so the cleaning can be performed. And the anesthetic is pricey, pricey, pricey. Generally, it’s well over $100 just for the sleep-inducing drug.
Even so, its well worth the price.
I encourage everyone — if you can afford it — to make this investment in your dogs health.
Read More..
Generally speaking, when a dog’s breath smells that bad, it’s a more serious problem than a dental chew bone can take care of. Usually, it’s a sign that the dog’s teeth have begun rotting.
If the bad breath smell and the fact that your dog’s teeth are or may begin rotting isn’t enough to encourage you to take care of your dog’s canines, then perhaps knowing that regular dental care can add years to your dog’s life is.
Sensi is now approaching his senior years and his breath has begun to get a bit smelly. For years, I relied upon brushing his teeth with doggie toothpaste and a regular toothbrush every once in a while.
Nowadays, I brush his teeth more than just once in a while — once a week, is more like it. If I can prevent that smell from worsening, it’s worth the five or ten minutes it takes to give his teeth a good brushing.
Plus, God knows I want to keep him around for as long as possible. If a weekly brushing can add a year or two to the time I get to spend with him, I’ll do it.
Even if you regularly brush your dog’s teeth, there’s still an extra measure you may want to consider.
Your veterinarian can perform a full dental cleaning service on your dog’s teeth. Think of it in terms of people — we get our teeth cleaned once a year, why not do the same for our dogs?
And just think of how much more useful the service is to our dogs, who don’t brush their teeth twice a day, floss to get out all that kibble stuck between their chompers or use a mouthwash to keep things fresh in there.
Let me note here too — don’t use human toothpaste, mouthwash or even flavored floss (if you think you might actually be able to floss your dog’s teeth anyhow!) on your dog. It can be poisonous for them. Buy doggie-specific products.
Back to the teeth cleaning service at the vet’s office though — it’s expensive. It usually runs around $300.
Why so expensive? One word: anesthetic.
Think about it. In order for vet to do a thorough cleaning of your dog’s mouth, he or she has got to be able to get that mouth open and get it to stay open without that wagging tongue trying to lick those human fingers away.
So, anesthetic is needed to put the dog out for awhile so the cleaning can be performed. And the anesthetic is pricey, pricey, pricey. Generally, it’s well over $100 just for the sleep-inducing drug.
Even so, its well worth the price.
I encourage everyone — if you can afford it — to make this investment in your dogs health.
Shih Tzu Dog Breed
The Shih Tzu is a proud toy breed of noble bearing and arrogant carriage whose long, silky, flowing coat, distinctive facial features, top knot, and tail plume over his back assure his unquestionably pure Chinese lineage. He has a compact, sturdy body with short legs, a blunt muzzle, and large ears that are heavily coated. The hair on his head is tied up and a lion-like mane radiates around the face. The Shih Tzu is a hardy, playful, feisty, alert, and very intelligent, little breed. Few dogs are as unconditionally loving to their owners as the Shih Tzu. He loves to be carried around, yet he does not become rotten and obnoxious like some other toy dogs. He is an attractive, curious, and happy dog who loves to be around people and hates to be neglected. He is initially reserved with strangers but warms up to them quickly. He is a little stubborn though not nearly as difficult as the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. Training should be consistent and patient. This is an intelligent breed and can be a good obedient dog if trained properly. Spoiling him could result in a pushy, nippy behavior as well as timidity. Socialization increases his confidence and should start early in puppy hood. The Shih Tzu may be difficult to housebreak and can be a picky eater. He can suffer from respiratory problems and may snore and wheeze. In addition, his protruding eyes are susceptible to injury.
Size: This Shih Tzu stands 8-11in at the shoulder and weighs between 10 and 16lb.
History and origin: Developed in China, this ancient breed may date back to the 7th century Tang dynasty. Many believe that the Chinese may have crossed the Lhasa Apso with the Pekingese to develop the Shih Tzu. Similar to the Imperial Pekingese, the export of Shih Tzu from China was forbidden. It was not until the death of the Empress Tzu-his in 1908 that the toy breed was smuggled out to Europe. The Shih Tzu has always been a companion dog.
Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Shih Tzu is � - 1 can (13.3oz size) of high-quality meat product with biscuit added in equal amount or 1 � cupfuls of a complete, dry food.
Exercise: An apartment is fine for this toy breed provided he is walked several times a day.
Grooming: His long, silky shedding coat requires a daily brushing with a pure bristle brush. Do not neglect this task to avoid the painful combing out of tangles. Keep the topknot from getting into the eyes and make sure that the ears are free of matted hair. Periodic clipping is also necessary. His coat can be kept in a shorter clip to reduce the grooming maintenance.
Simply amazing
Check out the story of an armless woman who trained her dog to a championship in obedience.
http://www.dogstardaily.com/blogs/armless-woman-trains-dog-championship
Id say this means there really is NO excuse for not training.
Read More..
http://www.dogstardaily.com/blogs/armless-woman-trains-dog-championship
Id say this means there really is NO excuse for not training.
Minggu, 16 November 2014
Corn and Soy are Very Bad for Your Dog’s Cat’s Short and Long Term Health
In this article - the importance of eliminating Corn and Soy from your dogs and cats diet, failure to do so can cost your dog and cat its health and shorten its life-span.
Corn and Soy are NOT species appropriate foods for dogs and cats;
- Corn and Soy (in North America) are grown from genetically modified, round-up ready agent orange seeds:
- Remember agent orange and the Vietnam War?
- Are a source of carcinogens and toxins;
- Contain endocrine disruptors;
- Contain very high levels of pesticides.
Species Inappropriate
Grains are not part of a dog’s (or cat’s) natural diet - you can read more about that here. When a dog or cat is fed a diet that includes corn and/or soy and related derivatives the dog’s health is placed at grave risk.
Genetically Modified
Corn and soybeans in the USA and Canada are almost all grown from Genetically Modified (GM) seeds (shame on Monsanto!).
The long term affect of ingesting GM food is not known.
Genetically modified corn has now been proven to cause the growth of tumors.
High Levels of Photoestrogens and Phytates
Large factory farms use a method to process soy that:
- Creates very high levels of photoestrogens in the processed soy;
- Creates very high levels of phytates in the processed soy;
Photoestrogens
Photoestrogens mimic the bodys natural estrogen hormones;
Photoestrogens mimic the bodys natural estrogen hormones;
- For males this can lead to increased of cancer and reproductive issues;
- For females this can lead to cancer and reproductive issues;
- Photoestrogens are so powerful that a baby that consumes soy formula can end-up consuming the equivalent of 4 birth control pills a day;
- Now compare the weight of a baby to that of many smaller dogs and to cats - and consider that many dog and cat foods have a high content of soy;
- In addition it is important to note that any system in the body that is controlled by hormones, can be severely adversely effected by endocrine (hormone) disruptors;
- Hormone disruptors are known to cause:
- Learning disabilities;
- Severe attention deficit disorders, hyper activity;
- Cognitive and brain development problems;
- Cancer.;
- An ever increasing number of dogs are afflicted by thyroid problems - the source of the problem - soy in commercial dog and cat food and treats;
- A mal-functioning thyroid can effect a dogs (cats) physical well being and mental well being;
- A malfunctioning thryoid can be a contributing factor to aggressive-reactive behaviour in dogs.
Phytates:
- Prevent the absorption of minerals;
- Prevent the digestion of protein by interfering with the proper functioning of enzymes that digest protein.
- This is serious trouble when you consider that the dog is already consuming a product that is low in nutritional value.
- Traditional methods of processing soy by fermentation (as used in Japan and China) greatly reduces photoestrogens, and phytates, thus making consumption of the resulting soy, safe and nutritional.
High Levels of Pesticides
Large factory farm soybean crops receive heavy applications of the potent herbicide glyphosate - a powerful toxin and carcinogen.
As a result, the vast majority of soy derivatives used in both feedstock and human food is contaminated with high levels of glyphosate, i.e.:
- Soybean oil;
- Soy meal;
- Soy milk;
- Tofu, etc.;
Soy has one of the highest concentrations of pesticides in North American crops;
Consider that a dog that is on a grain-in diet:
- Is already dealing with strain on its system as the diet it is on cannot meet its nutritional needs;
- The dogs, cats kidneys and liver are forced to work overtime to process the build-up of toxins ingested with the soy and corn;
- The dog is also forced to ingest pesticide which will further grow the toxic loading on its system.
Presence of Aflatoxins
Aflatoxins grow mainly on grains but they also grow on legumes - like peanuts, walnuts and pecans. This is one reason why you will hear some people say do not give your dogs nuts! Actually it is fine to give your dog peanuts or peanut butter - they are a good source of nutrition - just make sure you are giving them human grade.
Aflatoxins can also be found in cottonseed oil, fish meal and peanut oil.
- Human grade foods are monitored for aflatoxins;
- If aflatoxins are identified as being present, the product (such as grain) is not allowed to be sold for use in human food;
- There are no such regulations for animal grade foods so aflatoxins are present in most commercial grade dog, cat and bird food;
- A dogs or cats body can usually detoxify small amounts of aflatoxins, however;
- When aflatoxins are constantly present in the diet the liver and kidney cannot keep-up and as a result toxic loading on the dogs/cats system increases.
- The toxic load increases exponentially when the body is already struggling to process a host of other toxins.
Aflatoxins cause liver cancer.
So, to Protect the Health of your Companion Animal...
Check the ingredient list on your dogs, cats dry and wet food and treats and make sure that there is no corn and no soy in your dogs / cats food.
Check the ingredient list on your dogs, cats dry and wet food and treats and make sure that there is no corn and no soy in your dogs / cats food.
Holistic Support
If you require additional support and guidance I would be pleased to assist you via my Holistic Diet, Nutrition Wellness Services:
- Unbiased Diet, Nutrition, Product Advice is available via this service
- Diet, Nutrition Wellness Plans are available via this service
Did those Japanese dogs in the Youtube video really get rescued
It seems like everyone has heard the story about loyal Japanese dog who refused to leave the side of his pal, who was injured after the earthquake.
If you havent, heres the video:
Now, what everyone wants to know — and when I say everyone, I mean, this has turned into a global thing — is what happened to those two dogs. Did they get rescued? Are they OK?
According to Japanese Earthquake Animal Rescue, the answer is yes, theyve been rescued, and yes, theyre OK. (See the status update posted to Facebook)
Another organization called Global Animal is saying thats not the case, though. The report on their website states that members of Japanese Earthquake Animal Rescue searched for the dogs until dark, but were unable to locate them. Someone from the group told Global Animal that they too have heard rumors the dogs were rescued, but havent been able to confirm it. (See the article on their website, Update: Loyal Dog & Friends Safety NOW UNCONFIRMED)
Sadly, I dont know if we can really expect any better information at this point. It seems like the nation is truly in chaos over there and Id be willing to bet the feet on the ground are focused solely on working, working, working — updating the rest of the world, not so much of a priority.
Either way, Im holding out hope for a happy ending on this one. Lets cross our fingers for some new photos of those dogs to surface — this time of them being healthy, clean, well-fed and happy.
Read More..
If you havent, heres the video:
Now, what everyone wants to know — and when I say everyone, I mean, this has turned into a global thing — is what happened to those two dogs. Did they get rescued? Are they OK?
According to Japanese Earthquake Animal Rescue, the answer is yes, theyve been rescued, and yes, theyre OK. (See the status update posted to Facebook)
Another organization called Global Animal is saying thats not the case, though. The report on their website states that members of Japanese Earthquake Animal Rescue searched for the dogs until dark, but were unable to locate them. Someone from the group told Global Animal that they too have heard rumors the dogs were rescued, but havent been able to confirm it. (See the article on their website, Update: Loyal Dog & Friends Safety NOW UNCONFIRMED)
Sadly, I dont know if we can really expect any better information at this point. It seems like the nation is truly in chaos over there and Id be willing to bet the feet on the ground are focused solely on working, working, working — updating the rest of the world, not so much of a priority.
Either way, Im holding out hope for a happy ending on this one. Lets cross our fingers for some new photos of those dogs to surface — this time of them being healthy, clean, well-fed and happy.
Why Dogs Eat Poop Stool Eating Coprophagia in Dogs
There are many reasons why a dog may decide to eat his/her own poop, another dog’s poop or the poop of another animal species. The reasons way a dog consumes poop varies per individual canine - here are some typical factors to consider when looking to understand why your dog may eat poop…
Some Typical Root Causes of Coprophagia
- Behaviour
- A mother dog cleaning up after her very young pups’ stools - a behaviour evolved to protect the young from predators
- Acquired habit
- Anxiety and stress
- Greedy eaters
- Punishment for eliminating (pooping) in the ‘wrong’ place
- Transferable behaviour - learning by example
- Breed pre-disposition
- Some breeds have a pre-disposition to poop eating - i.e. Border Collies , Shelties
- Environmental Factors
- Enzyme deficiency
- Inappropriate
- i.e. dry dog food
- Insufficient diet - scarcity of food
- i.e. dogs that have suffered deprivation - stray dog, puppy mill dog, neglected dog, etc.
- Medical Issues
- Gastrointestinal parasites
- Mal-absorption of nutrients
- Neutered males are more likely to ‘indulge’
- Pancreatic Insufficiency
- Pancreas is not producing enough digestive enzymes
Other dogs enjoy raiding the cat litter box. Cats that are feed a processed food diet tend to pass stools that are full of undigested matter - this can make the stool appealing to some canines.
I have eleven dogs in my own dog pack. They are all fed a diet consisting of primarily raw fresh and whole food. Given the opportunity - three of my dogs will indulge in dog stool coprophagia - the other eight dogs never do so. The three that indulge have no medical issues...
So why do these three dogs eat poop - here is a little analysis (please note the three have asked me not to mention their names):
- Poop eater No. 1
- Breed - Sheltie
- Sex - male, neutered
- Background - puppy mill dog
- Poop eater No. 2
- Breed - German Shepherd x Malamute
- Sex - male, neutered
- Background - homeless rescue who had to compete for food
- Poop eater No. 3
- Breed - Australian Shepherd
- Sex - female, a very maternal female
- Background - rescue who had severe anxiety issues
A walk on the trails can be a source of natural help-yourself treats’ for the dogs. The foraged treats range from healthy and self medicating items, to disgusting to me ‘uh uh, don’t touch’ items and ‘don’t roll in it either items.
Examples of acceptable items that my dogs self-select are organic (non-pesticide or herbicide treated) grass, wild strawberries, juniper berries.
And, well - you have an idea of what the unacceptable items consist of :>)
Additional Assistance
If you require additional support and guidance I would be pleased to assist you via my In-Person or On-Line Services…Dog Obedience Training and Behavior Modification Services:
- In-Person sessions are available via this service
- On-Line consultation and sessions are available via this service
- Unbiased Diet, Nutrition, Product Advice is available via this service
- Holistic Diet, Nutrition Wellness Plans are available via this service
Playing Outside
Those babydogs do liked to play outside.
Mini and Gibbs do liked it the most though!
Mini do liked to go unner we walkway in my tunnel I do digged, too.
That picture do be Charlie and Data thinking about going outside.
And here do be a movie of the nother two babydogs, Gibbs and Mini.
Sabtu, 15 November 2014
Runaway daddy dog
The nother day Data do getted out of shes pool and runned away IN we house.
But today Aswell do runned away OUTSIDE and he do be in SO MUCH TROUBLES!
Aswell do liked to go out on the dock with He very much.
Most times he do stayed with He very good. So he do getted to be allowed.
But sometimes when He do getted to be working, Aswell might could get a little bit bored so then he do goes exploring a little bit.
He do not liked to stop working to go catched Aswell.
Today He and Hes friends so be going to bring in we dock and He and Aswell do getted started first but then Aswell do runned away a little bit and he do getted hes feet all muddy again and He do had to stopped working to go catched Aswell and now He do be mad at Aswell SO.....
now Aswell do not be llowed to go outside except in we pen!!! In the daytime!!
And he do not be llowed to stay out in we pen if he do barked, neither!!
Then he do had to come in we house with She and he can not be Hes helper today!!
Aswell do be sad now.
Read More..
But today Aswell do runned away OUTSIDE and he do be in SO MUCH TROUBLES!
Aswell do liked to go out on the dock with He very much.
Most times he do stayed with He very good. So he do getted to be allowed.
But sometimes when He do getted to be working, Aswell might could get a little bit bored so then he do goes exploring a little bit.
He do not liked to stop working to go catched Aswell.
Today He and Hes friends so be going to bring in we dock and He and Aswell do getted started first but then Aswell do runned away a little bit and he do getted hes feet all muddy again and He do had to stopped working to go catched Aswell and now He do be mad at Aswell SO.....
now Aswell do not be llowed to go outside except in we pen!!! In the daytime!!
And he do not be llowed to stay out in we pen if he do barked, neither!!
Then he do had to come in we house with She and he can not be Hes helper today!!
Aswell do be sad now.
What are meat by products in dog food
All of us love our dogs, right. So why do we give them a diet which we don’t really know much about. Well most of us assume that dog food available in the market is perfect for our pet dogs and that is the best thing we can get for them even if that means getting paying a big bill for all that food. Now we all should be aware of that food and there are quite a few things that we all should know.
Dogs being carnivore or omnivores should have a good portion of proteins in their diet, just as their natural members do. Dogs are the same family as wolves and wolves always eat meat which is one of the best sources of protein. So our pet dogs should have a similar diet or food. When you are giving dry kibble to our dogs, you should know the ingredients it has. It should always be clearly mentioned on the label. Unidentified meat or by products can mean meat of dead, slaughtered, uncared animals which can include meat of any animal including horses!
Although adding horse meat is not allowed in USA but it does finds its way in USA pet food market through some routes. By products can also mean parts of animals which do not find a better use. For example – chicken feet and necks. You just cannot know about the quality of such things. A lot of such food is too low quality even for consumption of dogs. The best thing you can do is to keep a check on what kind of a meat is added to your dog food.
Berkshire Police
Dog Training: Listen To The Experts!
All dog owners want their puppies to grow up as well-behaved, intelligent dogs. But the owner also has his or her prejudices and opinions about how to train their pet. Unfortunately, most owners rely on their own past experience, advice from friends and relatives, books, and rarely �facts� for guidance in shaping their dog's personality. Many puppies develop into acceptable adults despite adverse owner handling and care, which is a tribute to their psychic resilience.
However, hundreds of thousands of other dogs are returned to their breeder, given away to unsuspecting new owners, deliberately dropped off in new neighborhoods, or taken to the local pound - all due to a lack of responsible dog training advice by the experts.
A dog's personality, either pleasant or nasty, is observed in the behavior displayed, which is a result of learning. Learning is that which is absorbed and retained from the pet's interactions with the environment. A dog's brain functions mature by the age of 22 weeks.
Therefore, compared to children, the effects of early puppy experience on adult behavioral tendencies is more easily controlled and its benefits more quickly recognized. Every puppy owner should be aware of this rapid development so as to ensure careful early treatment.
Helping
Sometimes I is allowed to help.
Today I is allowed to help He fixed the oven!
She do not EVER letted me help cook food in the oven.
She YELLED at me when I tried to jump up.
But now the oven is broked.
I can help fix the oven!
But I am still NOT allowed to taked
the books and magazines off the bookshelves.
She do not likes me to.
She YELLS!
I think She do not like helpers!
Only He do!
Aswell
Jumat, 14 November 2014
Tis the season to be Doggy fa la la la laaaa
Hey Julie,
I absolutely LOVE Project: Play with your Dog study and how the Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab are crowd sourcing using citizen science! I dont think a better way of contributing to scientific understanding can possibly exist! I look forward to hearing updates about how the research goes. I will certainly participate - next time we head to the river to play, well take our camera to get some video!
So you might have noticed the silly season of festivity has landed upon us... Assuming we live past Friday (and I really hope we do, because Friday is my birthday and I selfishly want the fun of a full birthday!) I thought Id look at some ideas that might inspire gifts for the two- and four-legged doggy friends and family members in our life.
1. Read about a Dog
I have been re-reading Inside of a Dog recently and thoroughly enjoying it (again).
This book would make a fantastic gift for anyone who would like to understand more about dogs, the science looking at dogs, how it all fits together and is relevant to our shared encounters with dogs.
2. Give a Dog
After all those posts about the science of children and dogs I do think every child should have a dog.
But make sure its an appropriate dog.
Not every household or child is suited to owning a real dog, but that cant stop you giving that special little person in your life a gorgeous handmade pooch!
Here are some I fell in love with on Etsy.
3. Holiday with a dog
Its Summertime in Australia right now and my dogs love nothing more than coming away on holiday/vacation with us to the beach. What better way to show your dog youve enjoyed their company than to include them on your trip away?
Winter escapes can be fun for dogs too!
Its easier than you might think to find pet-friendly accommodation in your favourite holiday destination.
Just head to favourite online search engine and enter pet friendly accommodation *insert district name here*.
Alternatively just ask normal rental options if theyll allow you to bring a 4-legged friend. You might be surprised how many places will say yes if you just enquire and give them some reassurance that your dog will respect the house rules!
4. Save a Dog
You can impress your dog loving friends or family members by donating money to your local welfare, shelter or dog rescue group in lieu of a gift. Who really needs another recipe book when the same amount of money could help pay for care to help save a 4-legged life?
If you really need a gift to wrap, most of these non-profit, volunteer-driven organisations have calendars they sell to help raise funds.
5. Spend time with a Dog
At the end of the day, most of our dogs just want to spend time with us.
So take time this festive season to go for that extra walk, give that extra pat, groom or game of fetch (depending on what your dog likes and if it is a game, be sure to take a video and submit it to help science!).
If you dont have a dog, consider volunteering at your local shelter or welfare group. The festive season is an insanely busy period for these places and they are often overrun with dogs who have strayed while their owners are away, who are scared of fireworks or who have been dumped.
Just volunteering your time to help clean, feed, walk and care for half a day or three could make a huge difference to the dedicated staff. These people tend to miss out on Christmas lunch with their families or New Years Eve partying year after year because they nobly spend it looking after our 4-legged friends.
So there you have it - my top 5 gift ideas for two- and four-legged friends this silly season. Whats on your gift list?
Wishing you and yours a safe and fun festive season this year Julie.
Heres hoping we all make it past Friday and if we do, Im sure 2013 is going to be a cracker!
Fa la la la laaaa, la la la laa!
x Mia
Further reading:
Sitler R.K. (2006). The 2012 Phenomenon New Age Appropriation of an Ancient Mayan Calendar, Nova Religio, 9 (3) 24-38. DOI: 10.1525/nr.2006.9.3.024
© Mia Cobb 2012
Read More..
I absolutely LOVE Project: Play with your Dog study and how the Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab are crowd sourcing using citizen science! I dont think a better way of contributing to scientific understanding can possibly exist! I look forward to hearing updates about how the research goes. I will certainly participate - next time we head to the river to play, well take our camera to get some video!
So you might have noticed the silly season of festivity has landed upon us... Assuming we live past Friday (and I really hope we do, because Friday is my birthday and I selfishly want the fun of a full birthday!) I thought Id look at some ideas that might inspire gifts for the two- and four-legged doggy friends and family members in our life.
 |
| (source) |
1. Read about a Dog
I have been re-reading Inside of a Dog recently and thoroughly enjoying it (again).
This book would make a fantastic gift for anyone who would like to understand more about dogs, the science looking at dogs, how it all fits together and is relevant to our shared encounters with dogs.
 |
| (source) |
2. Give a Dog
After all those posts about the science of children and dogs I do think every child should have a dog.
But make sure its an appropriate dog.
 |
| (source) |
 |
| (source) |
Here are some I fell in love with on Etsy.
 |
| (source) |
 |
| (source) |
3. Holiday with a dog
 |
| (source) |
Winter escapes can be fun for dogs too!
 |
| (source) |
Its easier than you might think to find pet-friendly accommodation in your favourite holiday destination.
Just head to favourite online search engine and enter pet friendly accommodation *insert district name here*.
Alternatively just ask normal rental options if theyll allow you to bring a 4-legged friend. You might be surprised how many places will say yes if you just enquire and give them some reassurance that your dog will respect the house rules!
 |
| (source) |
 |
| (source) |
4. Save a Dog
You can impress your dog loving friends or family members by donating money to your local welfare, shelter or dog rescue group in lieu of a gift. Who really needs another recipe book when the same amount of money could help pay for care to help save a 4-legged life?
 |
| I do love Giddy and Twinkles words of wisdom! (source) |
If you really need a gift to wrap, most of these non-profit, volunteer-driven organisations have calendars they sell to help raise funds.
5. Spend time with a Dog
 |
| (source) |
At the end of the day, most of our dogs just want to spend time with us.
So take time this festive season to go for that extra walk, give that extra pat, groom or game of fetch (depending on what your dog likes and if it is a game, be sure to take a video and submit it to help science!).
If you dont have a dog, consider volunteering at your local shelter or welfare group. The festive season is an insanely busy period for these places and they are often overrun with dogs who have strayed while their owners are away, who are scared of fireworks or who have been dumped.
 |
| (source) |
So there you have it - my top 5 gift ideas for two- and four-legged friends this silly season. Whats on your gift list?
Heres hoping we all make it past Friday and if we do, Im sure 2013 is going to be a cracker!
Fa la la la laaaa, la la la laa!
x Mia
Further reading:
Sitler R.K. (2006). The 2012 Phenomenon New Age Appropriation of an Ancient Mayan Calendar, Nova Religio, 9 (3) 24-38. DOI: 10.1525/nr.2006.9.3.024
© Mia Cobb 2012
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