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Pets and Fire Safety dog obedience or not, are unaware of how to keep their animals safe from fire. In honor of Pet Fire Safety Day, which takes place on July 15th, the National Volunteer Fire Council urges all pet owners to take the necessary precautions. There are several ways in which a responsible pet owner can be prepared in case of a household fire. Each of these methods is useful, whether you are with your dog, or he is home alone.
One of the leading causes of house fires is leaving cooking food and electrical appliances unattended, chiefly space heaters, as they can ignite flammable materials if they are left running for too long. Dogs are often curious about fire, and can endanger themselves when left near open flames unattended. Be sure to turn off all of your appliances and extinguish open flames before you leave your home, and regularly monitor them when they are running.
In addition to creating escape routes for the two-legged members of your family, you should also be sure to take precautions for the four-legged ones. Having an escape route planned in case of emergency is crucial to the safety of your family, and your pet. In order to prevent your dog from being trapped in the event of fire, consider installing a doggie door, for a quick and easy escape. This is especially useful if he is home alone when the emergency occurs, and you can be assured that he is capable of escaping if you are not around to help him.
Testing your smoke alarms is also an important factor in fire safety, and you can employ the use of dog training to assist you in creating escape routes with the help of smoke alarms by teaching your dog to run outside when the alarm goes off. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and have their batteries replaced annually. Dogs become frightened and confused in event of an emergency, so it is important to use obedience training tactics to help them in this difficult time.
One of the most important ways to ensure the safety of your pets in a fire when you are not home is by installing a pet alert window cling. Window clings allow you to list the number of pets that you have, and firefighters can recognize them, and rescue your pets from the flames.
Use these tips to ensure that your dog will be taken care of in case of a fire-related emergency.
]]> How to Protect your Pooch in the Cold How to Protect your Pooch in the Cold
Cold weather affects pets as well as humans. Some pets are better suited for cold weather than others. There is a common belief that dogs “will do just fine” if left outside. This is not true; professionals, including veterinarians and dog trainers will tell you that all pets need proper shelter and protection from the cold. Pets should not be left outside for long periods of time in freezing weather as they can suffer hypothermia and frostbite just like humans. Senior pets with arthritis have a more difficult time in the winter cold. Be cautious of icy walks, provide warm and soft bedding, and handle pets gently.
A designated area inside is the best option, but if that is not possible, an adequate shelter that is insulated with blankets or straw and that is protected from the outside elements will help retain your dog’s body heat. Using a heated water dish will keep the water from freezing. Consult your dog trainer or a pet care specialist at your local pet supply store about finding heated water dishes.
The use of heat lamps, space heaters, and other electrical devices is not recommended as they may not only burn your pet but may also create a fire hazard. Pet product suppliers have heated mats for pets to sleep on. These mats could also be placed under a doghouse. Be sure to read all manufacturers’ directions carefully to avoid misuse or injury to your pet. Also, note that outdoor pets require more food than normal for energy and for maintaining body heat.
Large chunks of ice can get between your dog or cat’s footpads, causing discomfort. Clipping the hair between the pads will help in keeping such ice from forming. Some dogs will tolerate dog boots, which offer protection when walking in snowy areas or on icy sidewalks. Your groomer can help you in trimming the fur between your dog or cat’s toes. Salt and de-icers can cause chapped, dry, and painful paws, and afflicted pets will lick their paws. This could cause stomach irritation and vomiting. Be sure to wash your pet’s feet with warm water after a walk on icy ground. When walking your dog or cat outdoors you may also consider providing a sweater of some sort for him. You can find these at different pet stores in your area, you can even make one yourself out of an old sweatshirt. ABC wishes you and your pets a happy winter!
]]> Breed Spotlight - The Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers originated from Newfoundland, and were bred in order to retrieve game. Initially, he acted as an assistant to fishermen, and was trained to help pull in the fishing nets. He is well-known for his water-loving antics, and is always up for a swim. Energetic and eager to please, Labs are active participants in a variety of activities that go beyond just hunting. He also serves as an excellent guide dog for disabled people, a search and rescue dog, a police dog, and as a participant in agility training.
Labrador Retrievers have short coats that are stiff to the touch, and relatively easy to maintain. He sheds seasonally, so he should be groomed regularly with a stiff-bristled dog brush, and bathed periodically. His coat is water-resistant, and beneath his top coat of fur is a soft undercoat, which protects him from harsh weather conditions. The most common colors for the Lab are black, yellow, and brown; however, combination's of these colors are infrequent in his breed.
The Labrador Retriever is described as highly trainable, as both a family dog, and a sporting dog. It is important to train him in his youth, as he will become incredibly strong in adulthood and is resistant to being obedient if his leader is not 100% in charge. Teaching him dog obedience is vital to the success and happiness of a Lab. He should also be socialized at an early age, as he can become reserved or wary around strangers if he is not accustomed to their presence. His breed needs a strong pack leader, and he can become destructive or restless if he is not regularly exercised, so it is important to provide him with mental and physical activities in order to keep him happy and well-occupied. In order to effectively manage and train your Lab, consult your local dog trainer.
If you are looking for a family oriented, easily trained dog, the Labrador Retriever is the breed for you. He is capable of adjusting to apartment life, as long as his owner has a comprehensive grasp of animal behavior, and enough free time to frequently exercise him. The Lab is a well-known and widely loved breed who will serve as a loyal companion to anyone who adopts him.
The Yorkshire Terrier was named after the city of Yorkshire in England, where he originated. In the early years of the breed the Yorkie belonged to the Working Dog Group. Eventually the breed left the workforce and became a popular companion to families in European high society. Now we know the breed to be recognized in the Toy Group. The Yorkshire Terrier was first recognized by the AKC in 1885.
The Yorkshire Terrier is most known for his long silky coat. It was often times said that his coat was a product of the looms. This derived from Yorkies working in the clothing mills in the nineteenth century. In order to keep your Yorkie’s coat in good condition, it needs to be brushed regularly to avoid matting. You may even want to trim his hair if it drags on the floor to avoid any foreign items getting tangled in the coat. The Yorkshire Terrier coat should be fine and silky. It should be straight and not wavy. The Yorkie should be black and tan in color; however blue and tan is also acceptable.
An animal trainer may express that the Yorkshire Terrier can be both difficult and easy to train. Due to the dogs small size many owners let their Yorkies get away with bad behaviors other dogs would never be allowed to do. Some Yorkies will become demanding and overly confident, often times they will develop jealous or possessive behaviors with toys and food. They will even become overly protective of their owners. Some refer to this as small dog syndrome. If the owners do not give these small pooches boundaries and limitations they can become very stubborn, making it difficult to train in the long run. It is important, especially with a small breed, to keep up with regular dog obedience in order to ensure a happy life for you and your Yorkie.
If you are looking for a small dog with a big attitude and lots of heart, the Yorkshire Terrier is the dog for you. He requires minimal exercise and daily grooming. The Yorkie is well suited to many different living quarters because of his small size. The Yorkshire Terrier is a favored companion and will continue to be for years to come.]]> Breed Spotlight - The German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd Dog
According to the AKC Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) was the 3rd most popular dog breed in the United States in 2008. The German Shepherd Dog is an energetic and fun loving companion. The GSD is one of the most well- known and beloved breeds. He is the worlds leading guard, police and military canine. The German Shepherd Dog is a consistently popular breed in the U.S.
The German Shepherd Dog originated at Karlsruhe in Germany in 1899. Captain Max von Stephanitz and other dedicated breeders were responsible for producing the first German Shepherd Dog. In April of 1899, Captain von Stephanitz registered a dog named Horan as the first Deutsche Schäferhunde, which means German Shepherd Dog. The first GSD exhibited in America was in 1907.
The German Shepherd Dog belongs to the Herding Group. This means that he will most likely have a high prey or chase drive. Since herding dogs are bred to work closely with humans, they are easier to train. This is due to the fact that a herding dog is highly sensitive to his master’s every move and command. However, this can also cause problems like separation anxiety in certain circumstances. This will happen when the dog becomes overly-attached to his master.
The German Shepherd Dog is a great family pet. Once they have established a bond with children, they are perfect guard dogs and will have a protective relationship with them. Your GSD will also require a high level of physical and mental activity in order to maintain his obedience and not to become overly bored.
Your local dog trainer will tell you that your German Shepherd Dog should be given a job to keep him mentally active. There are many dog rescue organizations that specialize in finding homes for German Shepherds. If you are looking for a loyal companion, the German Shepherd Dog is for you. He is best-suited in a home with a yard; however, if properly maintained with daily physical and mental activity, the GSD is suitable in any home. He requires regular grooming, and once dog training is established, maintaining his dog obedience will be simple. The German Shepherd Dog has been a loveable family pet and working companion for many years and will be for many to come.
Below, you'll find extensive information on leading
dog whisperer information and dog whisperer products to help you on your way
to success.
Dog Whisperer
Becoming A Better
Owner Through A
Whisperer
A
whisperer is someone that claims to have the ability to communicate with dogs at a level that a common person can't. They can give you insight into your dog's behavioral problems and help you and your
co-exist in the same home.
The recent phenomenon is the result of countless appearances on daytime television like Oprah Winfrey, late night shows like Conan O'Brien, plus celebrity whisperers on cable television like Cesar Millan from National Geographic. Cesar has been referred to as the "Dr. Phil of dogs" and is known to come into a family and mediate whatever troubling issues exist between the family and their dog. It's his goal to get the family and
to co-exist happily and problem free.
Cesar often jokes that he rehabilitates dogs and trains people.
A
whisperer tends to communicate with dogs just like a dog. People make an all too common mistake of trying to employ human psychology with their dog. For instance, we are taught that shouting is a way to get the attention of another person, and this is correct. Who doesn't turn their head or pay attention whenever someone shouts? A
doesn't know this. They will either ignore you all together or be frightened and confused by your loud voice.
The worst part is they have no understanding as to why you are yelling so you aren't successfully modifying their behavior.
Some people think it is a joke or some kind of sensationalized overly-priced hoax. While there are a number of showbiz trainers that claim dogs communicate specific thoughts and feelings to them, one shouldn't automatically frown upon a the whisperer. We can actually learn a lot from how a theyr approaches a situation. One being that they treat dogs like dogs and use a
"pack" philosophy to reverse negative
behavior.
This is commonly referred to as "alpha
training".
They use this method of training whenever they enter a home where an undisciplined
is running the show. The alpha
training places the human as the leader of the pack, establishing the
as a follower. Troubled dogs often believe that everything revolves around them and feel like they can do whatever they please around the house. They will teach the
owner that he or she must become the Alpha of the household for their
to fully understand who is in charge, whose commands they listen to and what is expected of them. This way your
reverses behavior that is
a nuisance or danger to others like biting, growling and barking. It also works with things that are dangerous to the itself like chewing on electrical chords, getting into the garbage for scraps or running out the front door. Not to mention typical issues like potty training.
So, next time you are watching them on television, remember that while some things are likely pure entertainment, there are still lessons to be learned from the whisperers interaction with the dog.
Scott Jackson has been in the Pet Industry for over ten years. He has managed large Pet Specialty Retail stores and has worked as a distributor rep in the pet industry. He is a pet owner and lover who has extensive knowledge in pet nutrition and care. He runs a website http://www.coloradopetresources.com and http://www.dogandcatarticles.com where he gives information on pet care, location of Colorado independent pet retailers, vets, breeders and a general meeting place for pet lovers.
Visit http://www.coloradopetresources.com and find the information you need.
We strive to provide only quality information, so if there
is a specific topic related to dog that you
would like us to cover, please contact us at any time.
And again, thank you to those contributing daily to our
dog whisperer website
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I thought she was looking at something in the top of one of our trees. When I called to her, I could see that most of her eyeballs were up into their sockets. I held my hand over her eyes a couple of times but they didn't return to normal. I was just about to panic when they righted themselves. Is this something to worry about? Friar is a 9yr old golden retriever, he weighs about 90lbs, but is very tal... Friar is a 9yr old golden retriever, he weighs about 90lbs, but is very tall and has always been healthy. Last night he started to limp. I think it is his front left leg. He is very playful and active. Can I try treating this first from home before going to the vet? Thank you. I live in Cleveland, Ohio, and was wondering how much longer I will need fl... I live in Cleveland, Ohio, and was wondering how much longer I will need flea prevention for my dog. I have a golden retriever/yellow lab. He is about 7 months old. He was a re... I have a golden retriever/yellow lab. He is about 7 months old. He was a really active, happy dog until just recently. We live in North Dakota and it?s starting to get cold here. We usually keep him inside in the evenings until the morning when we go to work. Our house is really warm at nights and it?s really cold outside in the mornings. Today he is acting and looking sick. He?s hiding and won't eat. He drank water though. Is he getting sick from going in and out of the house with the weather being so different from outside? His eyes are gummy, also. He just lays there when he used to be a really active dog. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Bandit developed spayed female incontinence over a year ago. She has been o... Bandit developed spayed female incontinence over a year ago. She has been on Proin. She takes 1.5 tablets 2X's a day but it doesn?t seem to be working. She did have an ultrasound 12 months ago which revealed nothing. It seems to happen mostly at night. When she wakes up in the morning she has a big puddle underneath her. She is 11 years old and is a husky. Should I discuss increasing her dosage of the Proin or just invest in doggie diapers? Is there any other medicines that might be better then Proin? Thank you. My dog has been leaking coin size drops of unrine intermittently & has soak... My dog has been leaking coin size drops of unrine intermittently & has soaked our bed twice. She licks herself pretty often. She is 3 year old husky/shepard mix. Is this a bladder infection? Is it okay to get your pet vaccinated before the due date? Will it hurt the... Is it okay to get your pet vaccinated before the due date? Will it hurt them? I have an 11 week old weimeriner. What should I expect when he starts teeth... I have an 11 week old weimeriner. What should I expect when he starts teething? Will it affect his behavior? Will he have trouble eating? I just adopted two 6 week old lab puppies. I took them in right away for th... I just adopted two 6 week old lab puppies. I took them in right away for their first round of shots. Do these shot protect them at all from any disease that my be at my house or outside? My 5 lb toy poodle was seen at the vet yesterday and diagnosed with diabete... My 5 lb toy poodle was seen at the vet yesterday and diagnosed with diabetes. One of the symptoms we came in with was that she was acting like she was constipated and hadn't pooped in two days. We gave her an insulin shot last night and again this morning and the vet gave her a new diet. This morning after she ate, she had a huge uncontrolled BM on the kitchen floor that was not the same consistency as normal, looser than normal, but not runny. I took her outside and she strained with no results. A few minutes later she had another accident inside and was dripping blood. Again she strained outside with no results. What do you make of the blood? My beloved dog is very possessive of me, and jealous of any other animal ha... My beloved dog is very possessive of me, and jealous of any other animal having my attention! He is 12 yrs (fit and healthy), and as devoted a pet, as I am to him. I moved to Norway in Dec '07, and had to leave him at my cousin?s small holding in the UK, where he interacts with other animals perfectly ok. I do want to bring him over to us here, but worry now as we have two kittens (5 months old) that we rescued from outside our apartment four months ago. How do I introduce them, and get them to interact happily without the cats being afraid, and Monty attacking or growling at them? Thank you! How can I prevent my dog from marking his territory in my house? How can I prevent my dog from marking his territory in my house?
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