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Time to Practice our Greetings
This year my holiday "To Do" list has something unexpected on it--work with my dogs on their manners. It's not that they are unfriendly; quite the opposite in fact. They are too friendly sometimes, when the doorbell rings and company comes to call. Such is the way during the holidays.
I'd like to hang a sign on the door; something like:
Dear guests:
Please enter calmly.
Make no eye contact with the dogs.
Create no excitement.
I know. I know. That would just be plain weird. But the excitement of guests is definitely a contributing factor to the excitement my dogs display when someone arrives.
My plan was to create a Greeting Place, somewhere within view of the front door,where I would send the dogs when the doorbell rings. I tested it a few times with Tanner, who is very accomplished at the STAY command. It seemed to have potential.
The problem is quite simply that I am not there to do the training. With a family member sick, I find myself out of town. The dogs are in the hands of hubby, who definitely has his hands full. With 3 dogs and a cat, hubby is busy with walking, feeding and cleaning up after a houseful of playful animals who are happy to see him after a long day at work. Doubtful training will even make an appearance on his "To Do" list.
Nevertheless, I can share my plan with those of you who would like to work on your own dog's door manners. It is very simple, really:
- Ring the doorbell and send your dogs to their "place", "spot", "bed" or other permanently named location for greeting.
- I will use the commands, STAY and DOWN, to get the message across further.
- Treat the pups after I pet them, if they stay put in their spots.
- Release them after a short stay and practice again.
- Repeat several times a day, and Thanksgiving could mean calmer greetings from my "happy-to-meet-you" pups.
Oh well. Maybe at Christmas time; it just was not destined to happen before Thanksgiving. I'll keep it on my To Do list. What about you?
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(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008
"I'm Not a Service Dog
But, I'd Like to Be"
"I'm Not a Service Dog
But, I'd Like to Be"
Service dogs have come full circle. We've all seen Seeing Eye Dogs for the blind, but no longer are dogs just able to help the sight-impaired. Today, dogs are being trained to sense minute changes in body chemistry that can predict a multitude of medical problems.
Assistance dogs are now being used for sensing allergen presense in an environment or in foods, for highly-allergic patients. This has been particularly useful for those who are severely allergic to peanuts, a food that is processed in the same plants as so many other ingredients. People with heightened sensitivity to peanuts must be extremely vigilant about environments and foods where trace amounts of peanuts could be present.
Dogs are also being used more widely to notify their owners of changes in body chemistry that mean a seizure is imminent or medication is needed quickly. These dogs often are trained to paw or bark at their owner as a notification to take action.
Even memory-impaired patients with various forms of dementia are now receiving help from specially-trained dogs, to stay stable and safe.
Dogs have been found to have such exceptional scenting capabilties, that it is believed there may be many more uses for their super sniffers. Trainers at specialized training facilities are working to find more uses for our talented companions.
Groups such as Angel Service Dogs help to provide the funding through donations, for service dogs to give help to those in need.
In addition to service dogs and therapy dogs, there is an emerging category referred to as Facility Dogs. These pups assist in various ways with specialized therapy, guided by a handler. They can be found assisting patients with physical therapy and occupational therapy.
In reading about this new category of canine helpers, I was inspired to read about a Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix that is assisting children with their therapy in a burn unit, by playing fetch with the dog. The children are less intimidated by playing with a dog, than working with a therapist, yet the result is the same. They are using their extremities to stretch their skin, while having fun playing with the dog.
My own Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix, Xena, would have been thrilled to have this job. She is a sterotypical retriever, with a people loving, playful attitude--even at almost 13.
Want to learn more about service dogs? You can check out some of my sources, or try a Google search. It is truly amazing what dogs can do. I continue to learn this lesson. Even today, while my father is in the hospital, Tanner is giving me moral support when I return home for a little family time. He vigorously rubs his head on my leg, as if to say, "I know Mom, but I'm here for you."
Assistance dogs are now being used for sensing allergen presense in an environment or in foods, for highly-allergic patients. This has been particularly useful for those who are severely allergic to peanuts, a food that is processed in the same plants as so many other ingredients. People with heightened sensitivity to peanuts must be extremely vigilant about environments and foods where trace amounts of peanuts could be present.
Dogs are also being used more widely to notify their owners of changes in body chemistry that mean a seizure is imminent or medication is needed quickly. These dogs often are trained to paw or bark at their owner as a notification to take action.
Even memory-impaired patients with various forms of dementia are now receiving help from specially-trained dogs, to stay stable and safe.
Dogs have been found to have such exceptional scenting capabilties, that it is believed there may be many more uses for their super sniffers. Trainers at specialized training facilities are working to find more uses for our talented companions.
Groups such as Angel Service Dogs help to provide the funding through donations, for service dogs to give help to those in need.
In addition to service dogs and therapy dogs, there is an emerging category referred to as Facility Dogs. These pups assist in various ways with specialized therapy, guided by a handler. They can be found assisting patients with physical therapy and occupational therapy.
In reading about this new category of canine helpers, I was inspired to read about a Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix that is assisting children with their therapy in a burn unit, by playing fetch with the dog. The children are less intimidated by playing with a dog, than working with a therapist, yet the result is the same. They are using their extremities to stretch their skin, while having fun playing with the dog.
My own Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix, Xena, would have been thrilled to have this job. She is a sterotypical retriever, with a people loving, playful attitude--even at almost 13.
Want to learn more about service dogs? You can check out some of my sources, or try a Google search. It is truly amazing what dogs can do. I continue to learn this lesson. Even today, while my father is in the hospital, Tanner is giving me moral support when I return home for a little family time. He vigorously rubs his head on my leg, as if to say, "I know Mom, but I'm here for you."
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© photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008
Oliver Enjoys his Carrot Snack
We all know at least one family that feeds their dog from the table--anything and everything that is left on the plates. This practice, however, may not meet your dog's unique nutritional needs, and therefore could lead to health problems.
In researching this topic, I found many different opinions. In some areas, both opinions seem to be on solid ground; you should get your veterinarian's opinion, when in doubt. For now, I'll share some of the commonly agreed upon, safe and nutritious foods that we can share with our pups--occasionally. That's the key word. Likewise, I'll toss in a few safety issues that you should know about.
It is generally agreed that low fat cuts of fully cooked meats can be shared in small nibbles--a bite or two--with your dog. Try to avoid fatty foods that may upset their digestive system, or add weight to their smaller frames. Just like with humans, being overweight can add risk to health, so consider this when sharing "snacks" with Fido.
Most vegetables, both cooked and raw, are safe for dogs. Important also is that these are low in fat and high in fiber. Most popular are broccoli, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, peas, and beans. Onions and garlic can cause anemia, and are not recommended.
Not far from my home is a training facility for Canine Companions (assistant dogs for the disabled). Because it is local, many people in my area volunteer there, or act as puppy trainers by fostering a young trainee. I have heard from these volunteers that a frequent afternoon snack that gives the pups an energy boost, is a raw carrot. These are working dogs, of course, so they burn more calories than our typical house pets, as they spend countless hours training and practicing their skills.
I have begun using an occasional carrot snack with Oliver and Tanner, much to their delight. Xena, perhaps because she was not introduced to this food at a younger age, has not had an interest. The two younger ones, however, become quite eager when they see the juice-carrot bag come out of the the refrigerator.
I am careful to choose appropriate sizes for my two pups (one 9 pounds and the other 58 pounds), and I do peel and trim off the stem area, to prevent choking. This is a big favorite at my house, as an occasional snack, and particularly good on those days when we have a lot of physical activity planned. Then I know the extra sugar that carrots contain will be metabolized easily.
Fruits certainly have their varying safety issues, according to different authorities. Of most importance, you should know that grapes and raisins can be quite toxic to your dog, when eaten in large enough portions.
Apples and watermelon appear to be the most common healthy choices, but bananas are recommended, as well. Tanner and Oliver do enjoy apples, but I am careful to peel them to avoid a choking hazard.
Raw meats and bones, while seemingly a natural part of our dogs' ancestors' diets, can have bacteria, cysts and other unhealthy dangers. Unless you work with your vet and a conscientious, reputable butcher, raw meat diets are not often approved by veterinarians. There are exceptions, of course; I would advise you to be extremely careful to check out your source.
Rice and pasta, added to your pets food, can often add bulk when stools are loose, helping to bring things back to normal.
Lowfat cheeses are enjoyed by most dogs and can be given occasionally in VERY small amounts.
Chocolate is a big No No for all dogs. A chemical present in chocolate is quite toxic, when ingested in large enough quantities. Keep all chocolate out of reach of your dogs.
Even cooked bones often involve a choking or splintering hazard and should be avoided for your dog's safety, unless very large and well-cooked. Be sure to remove the bone when your dog begins to EAT the bone; it should be offered only as a "chew toy".
For more detailed information, check out this chart at Drs. Foster and Smith, which includes many more foods that may be found around your home. Also, this article at the American Kennel Club site is quite informational.
Sources: Dog Age, Drs. Foster and Smith
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Just like health insurance for humans, pet health insurance comes in many forms and plays an important part in giving us options for our pets' care. Without health insurance, some owners must opt for euthenasia, when serious injury or illness surprises them financially.
Unlike our health insurance, which is considered necessary, most American pet owners do not carry health insurance on their pets. Fewer than 300,000 pets are insured in the United States.
Owners should know their options and seek insurance to help with the types of care that they feel will be most taxing on their finances, as well as their decisions regarding their pets' care.
Insurance types vary, but basic offerings include coverage for accidents and illnesses (the surprises), and coverage for preventive care, vaccinations and annual checkups. The latter items are generally those that can be predicted, so evaluating the cost is easier to do. When seeking insurance for the possibility of a serious illness, accident or long term care, it is especially important to read the fine print. Know what you will get and understand what you will NOT get for your premium dollars. Understanding is key to your decision.
If you are a dog owner whose pet is all-important, and you feel you would invest heavily in his care, if he were to become extremely ill or seriously injured, you may find good value in health insurance. Europeans, for instance, use pet insurance much more widely than Americans.
There are few companies that offer insurance for major illnesses and injuries in the U.S. The primary players appear to be:
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Take Care of Your Pup with Insurance
Tailored to Both of Your Needs
Just like health insurance for humans, pet health insurance comes in many forms and plays an important part in giving us options for our pets' care. Without health insurance, some owners must opt for euthenasia, when serious injury or illness surprises them financially.
Unlike our health insurance, which is considered necessary, most American pet owners do not carry health insurance on their pets. Fewer than 300,000 pets are insured in the United States.
Owners should know their options and seek insurance to help with the types of care that they feel will be most taxing on their finances, as well as their decisions regarding their pets' care.
Insurance types vary, but basic offerings include coverage for accidents and illnesses (the surprises), and coverage for preventive care, vaccinations and annual checkups. The latter items are generally those that can be predicted, so evaluating the cost is easier to do. When seeking insurance for the possibility of a serious illness, accident or long term care, it is especially important to read the fine print. Know what you will get and understand what you will NOT get for your premium dollars. Understanding is key to your decision.
If you are a dog owner whose pet is all-important, and you feel you would invest heavily in his care, if he were to become extremely ill or seriously injured, you may find good value in health insurance. Europeans, for instance, use pet insurance much more widely than Americans.
There are few companies that offer insurance for major illnesses and injuries in the U.S. The primary players appear to be:
- Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) is the largest U.S. insurer, by far, and has been around for nearly 30 years. While they offer a variety of different plans and levels of coverage, they do have some conditions that are excluded, so do your homework.
- Pet Assure is a much younger company that covers all pets, and turns none away for pre-existing conditions. Their program is technically an alternative to insurance, that offers discounts through a network of participating providers of all kinds in the pet industry. They are able to provide owners with discounts on vet bills, as well as food, boarding, grooming and training.
- Trupanion is an injury and accident coverage offered through Petco, a major national pet supply chain. This covereage appears to have many appealing benefits such as coverage for congenital disorders, high lifetime limits and no penalties for filing claims. Be sure to read the agreement fully to assure you are receiving what you understand is the coverage.
The greatest advantage to purchasing health insurance for your pet is the peace of mind that you will be able to afford whatever medical care is required when the unexpected happens. Along with this is the less obvious perk that owners will not have to give as much consideration to whether a doctor's visit is needed, when medical issues occur. When money is not an issue, the decision is much easier to make.
Of course, monthly premiums are a cost that cannot be avoided, but this small payment comes much easier for most of us than a sudden, large medical expense. This is where the decision is often made.
If health insurance for your dog is something you wish to pursue, I encourage you to do your homework, read all the fine print, and know your costs, coverages, and those conditions not covered. Best wishes in keeping your dog healthy.
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Avoid Spreading Ringworm
Have Your Dog Checked
Dear Dr. Jacki:
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Avoid Spreading Ringworm
Have Your Dog Checked
Dear Dr. Jacki:
I just discovered ringworm on me. Could I have gotten this from my dog? She is a Chow Chow and has very thick fur, but none is falling out. Wouldn't it be coming out in spots? Other than going to the doctor for myself, should I shave her to check her skin? Winter is coming and I worry she will be cold. I'm not sure what to do. Is there any other way to figure out if she has a ringworm? Thank you for your help.
Sincerely,
Linda C.
*************************************************************
Dear Linda:
Yes, you can get ringworm from your dog. Some dogs/cats are silent carriers meaning they don’t show any clinical signs but they have the fungus. It is best to take her to a regular veterinarian where they can perform a test (or tests) to determine if ringworm is present.
Treatment for animals consists of baths and/or oral medications. Some animals need to be shaved in order for the treatment baths or dips to come in contact with the skin. I would leave the decision to shave up to the veterinarian. Because ringworm is zoonotic, this pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Treatment for animals consists of baths and/or oral medications. Some animals need to be shaved in order for the treatment baths or dips to come in contact with the skin. I would leave the decision to shave up to the veterinarian. Because ringworm is zoonotic, this pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
A sweater or shirt may be necessary, but it depends. If the sweater rubs on the ringworm lesion, it may spread the ringworm. This decision, too, should be made by your veterinarian.
Best wishes,
Dr. Jacki
Dr. Jacki, D.V.M.
Best wishes,
Dr. Jacki
Dr. Jacki, D.V.M.
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For more information on Dr. Jacki and her practice, you may find her at 4 Paws House Calls. A personal appointment will likely provide more specific information on your dog and your specific questions.
Dr. Jacki's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian.
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