Dream Esteem - Creativity Kickstarter

via IFTTT

Dream Esteem

via IFTTT

What Is Dream Esteem?

via IFTTT

10 Hilarious Dog Costumes

10 Hilarious Dog Costumes

Whether you think putting a costume on a dog is undignified or you think it is fun, here are some great pictures and options for dog costumes. The great thing about Halloween costumes for dogs is that they usually put a smile on someone's face and there is nothing wrong with that.  I've included pictures of my Forbes in costumes as well.

Options for costumes are as varied there are types of people and dogs.  Resources are easy and probably as close as your local pet food store.  Many dog costumes can be found at party center stores as well.  And then there are patterns so you can sew your own.  Sometimes people are clever and just utilize things around the house.
Their creativity is amazing!

Put your thinking caps on.  What does your furry one resemble?

 Like the lion at right?

1. The Lion. Very clever and I have no idea how they made it. Hopefully, it was not complicated. At least, I mean once you figure out the prototype. 

2. The Bunny. Oh my, isn't he/she adorable with the pink bunny ears?  I know many dogs would not like to wear those booties on their feet though.

3. Spider dog.  Does he scale tall buildings? Is he scary or adorable?

4. Smurfette 

Hmm, did they dye the fur blue?  Hopefully, it rinses out after shampooing.

5. Pumpkins never go out of style

6. This Chow has some hairy legs

7. Forbes, the Court Jester

8. Happy pups are the happy meal

9. Marilyn Monroe  Yes the wig makes it.

10. Hotdog  Yes, I like mine with mustard too.

What do you think of dog costumes? 
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

How to stop excessive barking.

    Barking is a natural instinct for dogs and one of their primary

forms of communication. Therefore, we cannot teach them to never bark. The most common reasons for a dog to bark are:

• Territorial barking: a response to people or other animals intruding on their territory.
• Alarm barking: a response to noise or sight.
• Socially Facilitated: when he hears another dog bark.
• Frustration-induced: response to a situation such as being confined or being separated.
• Greeting: usually saying"hello".
• Compulsive: repetitive and may be accompanied by repetitive movement like pacing. 

    The goal is not to halt this barking altogether but to control excessive barking. The objective is to teach a dog to stop barking on command and get the problem behavior under control. Understanding the root cause of their bark will help you to understand when and what is really "problem behavior". For instance, frustration-induced barking due to separation may be helped by providing your pet with stimulation when you leave such as a Kong. Territorial barking is more pronounced in some breeds. Providing distraction before the dog notices the intrusion may prevent the barking. Compulsive barking may need to be treated on another level such as anti-anxiety aids, a ThunderShirt or employing professional trainers.

     As with any training, it is important to have the dog's attention.  However, barking dogs often are in such a fervor that they cannot fixate on you or your commands.  They simply have such a preoccupation that their senses are muted and they have a type of tunnel vision that prevents them from seeing or hearing you. You need to create a distraction to snap your dog back into reality.

    According to Brandon McMillan author of Lucky Dog Lessons, the best tool is a penny bottle. A penny bottle is an old empty water bottle filled with coins. To train, make sure the bottle is in your hand before your dog starts barking.  When your dog starts to bark, say the word "QUIET" firmly and immediately shake the penny bottle. Shake it again and  again say "QUIET".  The sound should stop the dog's barking.  You should practice this technique a few times a day for about a week, shaking the bottle a little less vigorously each time.  Gradually giving more emphasis on the command word than the noise from the bottle. Make sure you use the command firmly. Alternatively, if your dog already knows the command SPEAK, you can use another technique to teach the QUIET command.  Give the signal for him to bark. As soon as he starts barking give him the QUIET command. Wait a couple seconds after he stops barking and give him a treat. The important thing here is to wait a few seconds after he stops  barking so he understands the treat is for being quiet and not for barking.  Each session you will increase the seconds of silence before giving the treat.  You should be up to 15 seconds of silence within a week of training.  Never spend more than 15 minutes on a training session. Remember to take long breaks in between sessions. This helps your dog to process what he has learned. This technique teaches your dog to stop barking when you say QUIET.  It is not teaching your dog to not bark.

     There are other tools to use. These tools include a citronella collar and an ultrasonic collar or an ultrasonic remote. Citronella collars emit a spray of citronella when your dog barks. Ultrasonic collars emit a high-pitched sound that only your dog can hear.  However, the citronella collar and the ultrasonic collar cannot possibly distinguish between what is considered acceptable and unacceptable barking.  Ultrasonic collars are not an option for a dog who spends a lot of time around other dogs as the other dogs will hear the unpleasant sound too.  An ultrasonic remote is a remote control you hold in your hand. It comes with a positive sound and the negative sound if it is not used consistently with the problem barking your dog would have a hard time figuring out why he sometimes hears that terrible noise.

   Patience and training consistently are the keys to success. Some dogs take longer to respond because barking is a deeply ingrained habit.

Forbes the Dog

Hey Dog Lovers, 

 Visit Forbes the Dog Facebook page for fun videos. And comments are welcome. Remember to "like" the page. 

You may also want to check out these children's books about a cute Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and his adventures. 

Available at Amazon. 

Happy Birthday Mummy

How to find the BEST collar for your dog.

     Once upon a time finding collars for dogs was easy. Today there is such a wide variety that it often is confusing to understand the benefits of each type of collar. When I was training my Forbes, I was taught to use a choke chain for training. He did well with it. It's purpose was to give corrections by quickly tugging on the leash which made the collar shorten on the dog's neck. At that time it was thought that the neck of the dog was this one of the strongest parts of their body. Therefore a choke collar would not be harmful. These collars,often called choke chains, are meant for training only. Today, dog trainers and veterinarians feel these collars can damage a dog's neck and trachea. Today, the Martingale collar is thought by trainers to be safer than the choke collar. What is a Martingale collar? A Martingale collar is a fabric collar with a chain. The chain has two loops when the dog pulls the chain it tightens snugly around the dog's neck without choking the dog.

     Pinch collars or prong collars can be effective means of training for strong stubborn dogs with leash pulling tendencies or dogs with behavior issues. Although the prongs appear harmful to a novice, when fitted and positioned correctly, it should mimic the pull by a mother at the scruff of the neck. The collar should be placed high on the neck just behind the ears, just under the jawline. Many trainers find these collars effective when other training methods have failed and some trainers use them on the majority of their dogs. They are to be used for correction during training only, similar to chain slip collars. Also like the chain slip collars, metal prong collars should be used with proper instruction and never be left on your dog when unattended.

     Head collars or halters slightly resemble muzzles, but they have a very different purpose. These halters act more like harnesses for the head and are intended to help train a dog to walk on a leash and heel. When a dog pulls on the leash, the halter will cause the head to turn. Thus controlling body movement from the head. When used properly, head collars can successfully discourage pulling on the leash and jumping up. It is thought to support other training as well. As with other collars, head halters should not be left on while unattended. Long leads are not recommended as the dog may be able to back out of some types of head collars. The brand of head collar that I am familiar with is called Gentle Leader. It comes with an instructional DVD.

      Harnesses are designed for placement around a dog’s chest and abdomen, crossing over the back. This takes the stress off the neck especially if a dog pulls or fights the leash. There are front clip harnesses and back clip harnesses. Some dog owners prefer harnesses over collars. Some dogs, however do not like the feeling of a harness and continue to pull. One owner stated both his dogs developed lipomas where the harness rested and now refuses to use one. I know of a few trainers who feel that harnesses only encourage pulling and that leash-and-collar training should be enforced. Harnesses are however a good option for dogs with medical problems in the neck and airway such as Pugs.

     No matter which collar you choose, it is important that you understand that all collars mentioned are tools and proper training on their use is essential. Training and walking on a leash should include communicating with your dog and understanding his temperament. A trained professional should be utilized for any continued problems with leash training.

Here's to happy walking. 

Adele enjoys playing with her toy in front of the camera

via IFTTT

Adele meets Melvin

via IFTTT

We love our Adorable Adele!

5 things you need to do to keep your dog safe this summer.

1. Don't Leave Your Dog In Your Car.

   I know you think you know better but come on, it's just going to be a few minutes in the store.  Don't do it.  Hundreds of dogs die every year from heat after being in a hot car.

According to the ASPCA, six minutes even when windows are down or the car is in the shade is enough time to kill your dog. Dogs can become dehydrated quickly.Temperatures inside the vehicle can more than double the outside temperatures. in a short period of time.  Dogs such as Pugs Bulldogs or other dogs with short faces can suffer more because of difficulty breathing. Elderly and obese dogs also have a greater risk of heat stroke. Other contributors are heart disease and dogs with thick coats. It is important to remember that heat stroke is an emergency. Symptoms include drooling, excessive panting or difficulty breathing, mild weakness or even seizures. Veterinarians suggest in the event of heatstroke you use water to wet the dog's face to cool them off. Do not completely submerge your dog underwater or use ice to cool them off as it can bring the temperatures down to fast.Wet the paws, head, and tail and armpits. Contact emergency veterinarian even if the dog is responding to treatment because damage to internal organs is a possible side effect of heat stroke.


2. Supervise swimming.

   Most people think dogs are natural swimmers but not all dogs are good swimmers.  Even good swimmers can tire in a pool or lake and become disoriented and drown. So please supervise your beloved pet around pools. Pets must wear flotation devices if on a boat.And no drinking the pool water.  It can cause stomach upset.  Needless to say, keep all animals away from chemicals, pool or otherwise due to the toxic nature if ingested.


3. Protect against pests.

   Ensure your pet is current on his or her flea and tick prevention medication.  Even so, when walking in the woods or camping, check for ticks frequently. Get a heartworm test at the vet every year. Snake avoidance training is available in many areas now to train your dog to sense that snakes equal danger. My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves to chase bees and wasps.  Fortunately, she has not gotten stung.  I have heard the biggest concern is the number of stings.  That is what can cause immense swelling. Be aware that some lawn products can be poisonous if ingested. Avoid areas where you suspect recent spray with insecticides.


4. Riding safely.

  Just as we must wear safety belts to ensure our safety, it is important to protect our pets as well.  Many states have even banned drivers from traveling with their pets in their lap.  And for good reason.  A 10 lb unrestrained dog according to AAA, in a car traveling 30 miles an hour will exert 300 pounds of force during a crash.  Pets often suffer multiple injuries when in an auto accident as a result of not being restrained properly.  So find the appropriate restraint for your pet before your summer travels begin.


5. Party Beggars

   Summertime is the best time for outdoor fun, parties, and food.  Your pet, however, does not know that the food you are offering your guests could be harmful to him or her. And you know they love to beg for whatever you have. Many foods including grapes, onion, raisins chocolate and products with artificial sweeteners can give pets severe digestive ailments.  Some pets are more sensitive to diet changes than others and too much of a good thing (from Fido's perspective) can cause pancreatitis.  Pancreatitis in dogs may require hospitalization. Additionally, alcoholic beverages can not only cause intoxication but coma or death. So let Fido have fun at the party, just not with your food and drink.

Seeing Eye dog for a dog?

Should you Clean your Dog's ears?

   I usually rub my furry girl's ears when I greet her and she loves it. But occasionally I see her pawing at them.  So what's up?  Should I clean them?  Is there something wrong?  Here's an indication of when to clean or treat your dog's ear problem.

Cleaning a Dog's ears.

   While weekly checking of the ears is important, routine cleaning may not be.  Dog's ears have self- cleaning ability and you don't want to hinder that.  Some dogs who swim alot have more issues with keeping their ears clean.  Inspect the ears for signs of health like pinkness.  A healthy ear should be pink with no scabbing or brown spots like mites. If the wax looks other than golden it could be a sign of excessive buildup or infection. Your vet may have you clean your dog's ears frequently if they have allergies.  Many vets reccomend not cleaning your dog's ears if they look healthy to avoid damaging there ear canals.

    To clean your dog's ears, first do it in the bathroom or outside.  It's a good practice to do it prior to a bath. Use a gentle cleaner from a pet supply store or one reccomended by your veterinarian. Some information states you can use which hazel hydrogen or peroxide but most veterinarians say that is too drying for most dog's ears. To use, tilt your dog's head downward and squirt the cleaning solution into the ear canal.  Then massage it while you hold the ear closed. Then let your dog shake and watch out.  You can wipe any excess cleaner off with a gauze or cotton ball. Do not use cotton swabs because you can force dirt further inside the canal. Ok that's it! Easy but perhaps a little messy.

 Signs you need to have their ears checkd by a veterinarian. 

• If your dog suddenly dislikes you touching or rubbing it's ears it's an indication he or she may have an infection.  
• There should not be an offensive odor to the ears.  Most infections are caused by bacteria and can cause an odor.
• Discharge, especially if bloody.
• Crusts or scabs.
• Balance issues
• Walking in circles.

These are signs of a more serious nature and possibly an ear infection. Scratching and rubbing of the ears are also a common sign of infection. Your vet can ususally diagnose this by examining the ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope. Infections can ususally be treated using topical or oral medications.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Ear Infections?

Dogs ear canals are more vertical than humans and can retain debris more easily. Some dogs with allergies or those with non-erect outer ears can be predisposed to developing ear infections. Dogs that have excessive hair growth in the ear canal may also be more susceptible to ear infections.

The most important thing is to monitor your pet's ear health and treat problems as soon as possible. Hearing loss is a not uncommon side efect of ear infections.  Keep the ear canal clean and dry as bacteria and yeast love a moist environment.

Here's to healthy ears and hearing!

A Deaf Dog for Adoption.

Forbes is doing well with his new dental routine. He seems able to eat anything. We took a visit to the animal shelter last week. There was a stray Cavalier I wanted to meet. Forbes was a gentle soul as always, but unfortunately the stray really wasn't interested. While we were there, we decided to visit all the dogs that were for adoption. We met one little girl that was so cute and she seemed to like me. There was no aggression between Forbes and her but no real interest either. After a while, I began to notice, she did not respond to her name. I feared she was deaf. Now Forbes is hard of hearing but I wasn't sure I was ready to tackle a special needs dog right now. I was concerned about training.

How to train a deaf dog.

Although it was once believed that deaf dogs could not be trained, many people that love and care for them say deaf dog training isn't difficult. Dick Russell, a dog trainer near Baton Rouge, La., has worked with more than 100 deaf dogs in the past 20 years.

"It's as easy to train a deaf dog as a hearing dog," Russell says. "The only difference is you use hand signals instead of verbal commands."


The secret, he says, is having a clear hand signal for each action you want the dog to learn. It doesn't matter what they are, he says, as long as you're consistent.


Russell says it's also a myth that deaf dogs are more aggressive. He says any dog, if startled, could bite. He tells clients with deaf puppies to wake them up repeatedly, with a tasty treat in hand. They'll soon associate being awakened, even if startled, with something good. And if you don't want to startle a sleeping dog, stomp your foot near them or bump the couch or bed they're sleeping on. The vibration usually awakens them, he says.


Other than that, Russell says, people really don't need to make a lot of special adjustments for their deaf pets.

How to keep a deaf dog safe.

First, you must keep the dog on a leash or in a fenced yard for it's own safety. A deaf dog can't hear a car or other danger coming.


To keep track of your dog, put a bell on her collar, Becker suggests. And put a tag on her that says "Deaf," along with your contact information.


To get your pet's attention, deaf dogs can be taught to come in with the flash of a porch light or flashlight at night.


During the day it can be harder to get their attention if the dog is focused on something else. Usually waving your arms works. Deaf dogs usually bond with their owners so well that they look to them constantly. However, they may need to be touched to get their attention if they are in the middle of a barking frenzy. I have found a wealth of information available on caring for deaf dogs. Many deaf dogs dropped off at public shelters are usually euthanized.


If you are considering adopting, remember deaf dogs can do almost anything a hearing dog can do. They're just a dog that can't hear."

Leash Training Your Puppy

      Once you have purchased or adopted a puppy, the first thing you need to do is train it. Get your puppy familiar with the environs of your family and home. Training puppies is a demanding task, but the results are worth it. One of the most important things to train is the presence of a leash.

Leash Training Puppies

Puppies love to wander and play, and most often hate having any restrictive object attached to them. To limit the negative behavior and to get a pup used to the leash, apply these simple tips:

• First buy a training collar that suits your pup. Try to get the pup used to it. You can expect the pup to try to scratch it off. Put the collar back on when the pup is eating, or playing with you. Remove the collar once a day when your puppy is not trying to free itself from it. Do not remove the collar when the pup is trying to remove it. Wearing a collar for the first time will feel odd to the pup, just like we feel weird for a few days when we wear a new watch or a new pair of glasses. Buy a collar that fits your puppy, but it should not be stiff. A lightweight collar is a good choice.

• Attach the leash to the collar. Some puppies might be excited to see a colored rope tied to their neck. Let your pup get comfortable with the leash. Allow it to roam in the house with the leash attached, but under supervision. Pups will try to chew the new leash; this is the time where you distract and play with the pup. You can apply bitter apple on the leash to refrain the dog from chewing it; but remember that this wouldn't last long, and you would have to apply it every hour. Applying bitter apple is one of the easy ways to stop your pup from biting the leash off. Dog lovers believe that chewed leashes are very useful as chew toys for growing pups. Don't leave a leashed puppy unattended, as it can get tangled in various risky things.

• When you see that the puppy is comfortable with the collar and the leash, it is time to begin the leash training. Make the training sessions short and lively. Pups love to follow their owners; use this as an advantage. Start with a short walk around your house or yard, with the puppy walking beside you. If your pup strains on the leash stop immediately. Never walk with the pup when it is pulling on the leash.

• The pup will gradually learn that pulling on the leash takes it nowhere. If the pup wants to continue to walk, the best option is to walk with you on a loose leash.

Some Useful Tips

• Remove the leash when your pup goes into the kennel or crate. This will associate the leash with going outside, and will make the puppy want it.
• Consult your vet about your dog's breed and which collar to use.
• Never leave your pup unsupervised with a leash. The leash could latch on to something, and strangle your pup.
• However, leave the collar on unsupervised pups. If your pup is lost, the identification tag on the collar can help save its life.

Try to follow these steps with some patience and persistence, and soon your puppy will be raring to get onto the leash. 

Dog Lover

Dog Lover

Dog lover definitely describes me. Dogs have been part of my family for much of my life. I have been a dog “sister”, “mother” and friend. Each canine family member and friend has possessed distinctive traits that provided entertainment and ample companionship. These moments were not only delightful, but often disclosed exceptional love, devotion and life lessons. My life story would not be complete without these allies and their teachings about love, conduct and respect. I am currently a mother to a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel who rarely lets me out of his sight. His devotion is so deep and our bond so strong that I feel we often communicate just by eye contact. Forbes came to me when he was 8 months old. He was not house-broken or leash trained. If you put him on a leash, he would splay his legs like he was a mop. I had to drag him like this until he got the idea. I took him with me everywhere around the house. I taught him to wait for a command to eat, to use his crate and to go up and down the stairs. He was enrolled in obedience and I found with the right approach, he learned very easily. Later he went to advanced training and became a Canine Good Citizen. He never had to be trained in cuddling. A natural, he would rest his head on my chest when I watched TV. We travel together as much as possible. He’s been sailing, flying, biking and of course in an automobile. He uses a doggy door and watches me as I back out of the garage with a look like, "you’re really going to leave me?" And he’s always waiting for me when I arrive home. He is loved in the neighborhood and plays well with “Rice,” the neighbor dog.  Now I have young Adele.  She is full of energy and loves to steal socks. She has learned sit, stay, down and leave it. Leash training is still a process though. Follow me as I continue to learn and grow by interacting with these wonderful dogs.

Top 10 Dog Training Books

Top 10 Dog Training Books

The Culture Clash ― Jean Donaldson
The Culture Clash is a very easy-to-understand book, with many simple and well-written guidelines on how to train your dog. This book clears many misconceptions regarding dog behavior and their acceptance towards training. In this book, the author who is a renowned dog behaviorist herself, has helped people understand dog behavior and how to cope with it. This book is a must-read for every dog owner and trainer.

Before & After Getting Your Puppy ― Dr. Ian Dunbar
Before & After Getting Your Puppy is a book that actually talks about everything you need to do regarding raising a puppy. It helps you develop a positive mindset and get yourself ready for your dog. This book has amazing pointers and instructions that will help you train your puppy in all aspects, like dealing with strangers, chewing furniture, toilet training, sorting behavioral and temperamental problems, etc.

The Power of Positive Dog Training ― Pat Miller
This book specializes in helping you train your dog by keeping a very positive approach. It helps you connect with your pet on a different level altogether, and assists you in becoming friends with your dog. This book stresses on using love, care, and support instead of fear and punishment while training your dog.

Don't Shoot the Dog! ― Karen Pryor

This book contains important and useful pointers for training your dog. The author, a behavioral biologist, has given 8 invaluable points which help in dealing with bad and undesirable behavior, and 10 laws which are necessary in shaping your dog's behavior for the best.

Living with Kids and Dogs...Without Losing Your Mind ― Colleen Pelar

This book is a boon for parents who are busy shuffling between work and family. It helps them establish a safe and enjoyable relationship between their dogs and their children. It helps parents identify reasons why the dog may exhibit abnormal behavior, and how to prevent their children from getting hurt or bitten.

How Dogs Learn ― Mary R. Burch, Jon Bailey

This book covers all aspects of dog training including its history. The language used in the book may be a little technical, but it is still understandable. Overall, it is a very informative and interesting book on what training methods to apply, and common ways in which one can deal with any behavioral problems faced by dog owners. This book very specifically breaks down behavioral patterns exhibited by dogs and helps the owner understand how to deal with unruly behavior, if any.

The Thinking Dog ― Gail Fisher

This is a must-have book for every dog owner, as it beautifully elucidates the concept of clicker training. It also stresses on using positive training techniques, and is very helpful for those who are trying to make the switch between normal voice commands to clicker commands. The evolution of dog training has also been covered in this book, along with important insight into the behavioral patterns exhibited by your dog.

Dogs on the Couch: Behavior Therapy for Training and Caring for Your Dog ― Larry Lachman

This book explains in detail how to deal with dogs who have behavioral problems, like nuisance barking, phobias, separation anxiety, and aggression. It stresses the need to understand a dog's problems, and then start with training using only positive training methods so that the dog is happy, safe, and comfortable. It explains both sides of the human-canine relationship in simple and easy-to-understand language.

For the Love of a Dog: Understanding Emotion in You and Your Best Friend ― Patricia B. McConnell

This book helps dog owners establish a beautiful relationship with their canines. It has useful facts about dogs which help in their training. The emotional know-how of dogs has been described in such a beautiful way that all dog lovers will find it very difficult to put this book down without finishing it.

The Dog Who Loved Too Much: Tales, Treatments and the Psychology of Dogs ― Nicholas Dodman

This book is dedicated to helping people out with naughty dogs. Insightful information regarding curbing the destructive and rebellious tendencies of dogs has been stressed on, and remedies to unruly behavior have been explained very well in this book. So, if your pooch is the type to bite furniture and destroy clothes, telephone wires, and the like, then this book is meant for you.

Honorary Mentions

• Bones Would Rain from the Sky: Deepening Our Relationships with Dogs ― Suzanne Clothier
• The Cautious Canine ― Patricia B. McConnell
• On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals ― Turid Rugaas
• So You Want to Be a Dog Trainer: A Step-By-Step Guide ― Nicole Wilde
• Dogs Are From Neptune ― Jean Donaldson
• Oh Behave! ― Jean Donaldson
• Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior ― Temple Grandin
• Getting Started: Clicker Training for Dogs ― Karen Pryor
• Getting a Grip On Aggression Cases: Practical Considerations For Dog Trainers ― Nicole Wilde
• I'll Be Home Soon: How to Prevent and Treat Separation Anxiety ― Patricia B. McConnell
• AFTER You Get Your Puppy ― Ian Dunbar

You may get overwhelmed and irritated with your puppy, when he doesn't listen to you or obey your commands right away, but have patience, shower your dog with lots of love, and he will surely start accepting the training. Try training him with treats and toys, and most important of all, don't forget to have fun with your dog while training him.

Elizabeth Hebert - Author Intro Video

The Do's and Don'ts of House Training your  Puppy

     House training a pup is very important for the well-being of both the puppy as well as the caregiver/owner. The primary reason that dogs are surrendered to pet shelters is difficulty with improper elimination. Therefore, proper house 

training is a crucial factor to consider when owning a puppy. It is necessary to establish proper toileting routines when the puppy is young. These practices can last a lifetime and become very tough to challenge when they are established. It is extremely important for the caregiver to house break the young puppy correctly. No trauma should be introduced to the puppy while doing this. In most cases, true house training can not start till the pup is six months old. Pups below this generally lack the bowel and bladder control that is required for true house training.

Puppies younger than 6 months need to be restricted to a small, puppy proofed area when the caregiver cannot supervise them. The entire floor of the space should  be covered with newspapers or comparable absorbing materials, and the paper replaced every time it is dirtied.  As the young puppy grows older, the quantity of paper made use of can be decreased as the puppy begins to establish a preferred toilet area. Some trainers prefer to skip the paper stage and use the outdoors only.

The Do's and Don'ts of House Training your  Puppy

• Using a crate can be a large advantage in assisting a puppy to establish self control. The concept behind pet crate training is that the pup will not wish to potty in his bed area.

• When you are not in the house or can not supervise the puppy, you should make sure he or she can not make a mistake. This is through confining the puppy to the area that has been completely puppy proofed. Puppy proofing a space is really much like infant proofing an area. Ensure the confined are has no resemblance to any potty area. Puppies will chew on just about everything. Appropriate chew toys should always be available to him or her. This means if your pup is confined, your favorite shoe won’t get destroyed by destructive behavior.

•  When you are home, take the young puppy to the bathroom area frequently and after meals. It shouldn’t take long to figure out how long it takes after a meal for Fido to have to move his bowels. This is very helpful knowledge for the caregiver to promote easy bowel training  habits.

• Use a consistent word or phrase to signify you wand Fido to do his business.  Educating the puppy to relieve himself on concrete, blacktop, turf or dirt and not on your floors is the goal.

• Praise and reward your puppy every single time he potties in the established toilet area. The young puppy has to learn to connect toileting in the established area with happiness.

• - Keep a  schedule when feeding your puppy,and also offer continuous access to fresh  drinking water. A consistent feeding schedule equates to a consistent potty routine.

• Do not give the young puppy the run of the house till he has actually been completely house trained.

• Do not leave food out for the pup all day long. As noted before,it is best to keep  an established feeding timetable in order to make the dog's bathroom timetable as consistent as possible.

• Never reprimand or punish the pup for mishaps. Punishing the puppy will only trigger anxiety and confusion
• Never hurry your pet. A hurried, discouraged or frightened dog will not be able to learn crucial lessons of house training.

     House training must be consistent.It is much easier to house train right the first time than to re-train a canine with behavior issues. It is important to remember each animal is different and some will take longer than others. House training can take several weeks or as long as several months.  It depends on the dog breed and temperament. It is important to be patient.

As you and your puppy bond, the training becomes easier. Soon you will realize that consistency is the key to simplifying house training your puppy.

This Dog Rocks!

Too Cute! French Bulldog rocks baby.

BLOGGER'S BLOCK. How to manage grief after losing a pet

My Grief

Last year, my beloved Forbes passed away suddenly.  I was so devastated and distraught that I could not write.  I tried to keep busy.  I walked daily.  I talked to him. I wondered if he suffered.  I didn't know.  Could he forgive me if he did?  For over a month, I would think I heard him and turn to look to see what he was doing, only to remember that he is no longer here in the physical world.  I had hoped picking up his cremated remains would help my grief.  It did not.  I cried for hours and poured through pictures of him since his puppy days.  We had many adventures and travels together.  I was hoping for many more even though I knew he was aging.  Now I imagined him sitting along side my Mother who had passed away two years before, letting her repeatedly pet him.  She adored him and he was careful around her as she grew frail. I thought about how much he loved holidays.  He was allowed turkey and gravy on Thanksgiving and he could smell the bird roasting and would carefully follow me around the kitchen.  His brown eyes showing excitement over the forthcoming meal.  That was all gone now.  No Forbes to help with Thanksgiving grace.  There would be no doggy Christmas toys to wrap, no puppy treats to drop into his specially made stocking.  I worked more, wrote less and tried to imagine my life with another animal.  I went to parks to watch people and their dogs. It was beautiful to see the love and devotion some of the animals had for their humans. I like to see them run free, play ball or frisbee. It was bittersweet though.  A new dog would provide a distraction and I knew I would give him or her a wonderful home. But that didn't seem like a good enough reason to  adopt another animal.  I was very lonely but I knew I wasn't ready. Someday....

I was beginning to function better but I occasionally still became choked up mentioning him.  Still  I was unable to blog.  What's the point?  I had a hole in my heart and words would not come. This was a blog about dogs and It only reminded me of that hole in my heart.   I couldn't stand hearing, "it's just a dog."  or  "why don't you get another dog?"  One day someone mentioned a grief book  called The Grief Recovery handbook for pet loss by  Russell Friedman, Cole James, and John W. James.  It has really helped. It identifies myths regarding grief and loss that help to prolong grief. The book provides a methodical approach and exercises to assist the recovery process.  Processing feelings is not what we're trained to do and this book is meant to show you 'how' to process rather than hold on to the pain.

So I have gotten help now for setting goals and focusing on blogging again and I have been researching diets and natural remedies for dogs.  Watch for those posts.  Also, I've been in touch with breeders who have adult dogs that need homes.  I am looking forward to adopting a dog soon. So maybe soon, I'll be a puppy mummy again.

A Deaf Dog for Adoption

Forbes is doing well with his new dental routine. He seems able to eat anything. We took a visit to the animal shelter last week.  There was a stray Cavalier I wanted to meet. Forbes was a gentle soul as always, but unfortunately the stray really wasn't interested. While we were there, we decided to visit all the dogs that were for adoption.  We met one little girl that was so cute and she seemed to like me. There was no aggression between Forbes and her but no real interest either.  After a while, I began to notice, she did not respond to her name.  I feared she was deaf.  Now Forbes is hard of hearing but I wasn't sure I was ready to tackle a special needs dog right now. I was concerned about training.

How to train a deaf dog.

Although it was once believed that deaf dogs could not be trained, many people that love and care for them say deaf dog training isn't difficult. Dick Russell, a dog trainer near Baton Rouge, La., has worked with more than 100 deaf dogs in the past 20 years.
"It's as easy to train a deaf dog as a hearing dog," Russell says. "The only difference is you use hand signals instead of verbal commands."

The secret, he says, is having a clear hand signal for each action you want the dog to learn. It doesn't matter what they are, he says, as long as you're consistent.

Russell says it's also a myth that deaf dogs are more aggressive. He says any dog, if startled, could bite. He tells clients with deaf puppies to wake them up repeatedly, with a tasty treat in hand. They'll soon  associate being awakened, even if startled, with something good. And if you don't want to startle a sleeping dog, stomp your foot near them or bump the couch or bed they're sleeping on. The vibration usually awakens them, he says.

Other than that, Russell says, people really don't need to make a lot of special adjustments for their deaf pets.

How to keep a deaf dog safe.

First, you must keep the dog on a leash or in a fenced yard for it's own safety. A deaf dog can't hear a car or other danger coming.

To keep track of your dog, put a bell on her collar, Becker suggests. And put a tag on her that says "Deaf," along with your contact information.

To get your pet's attention, deaf dogs can be taught to come in with the flash of a porch light or flashlight at night.

During the day it can be harder to get their attention if the dog is focused on something else. Usually waving your arms works.  Deaf dogs usually bond with their owners  so well that they look to them constantly. However, they may need to be touched to get their attention if they are in the middle of a barking frenzy. I have found a wealth of information available on caring for deaf dogs. Many deaf dogs dropped off at public shelters are usually euthanized.

If you are considering adopting, remember deaf dogs can do almost anything a hearing dog can do. They are just dogs that can't hear.

Gum disease. Is your dog at risk?

When Forbes was a puppy, I was very diligent in brushing his teeth.  but as the years progressed, I slacked off.  Forbes has since developed  periodontal disease.  It is thought that some dogs have a genetic predisposition to periodontal disease.  Periodontal gum disease causes gum tissue damage and bone damage and can cause loose teeth.                                      

                                                                                                                                                  

The risks for periodontal disease increase 20 percent each year of a pet’s life, according to data released by Banfield Applied Research and Knowledge.

                                                                                                                                                

                                                                                                                                                                       

Four Stages of Periodontal Disease.                                   

                                                                                                                                                                        

There are four stages or Grades to periodontal disease.  In Grade I only gingivitis is         present. Grades II,III and IV include loss of bone and soft tissue around the teeth.  Signs can vary from dog to dog but many dog lovers notice bad breath.  Many dogs have mouth pain and are reluctant or unable to chew their food.  A preliminary veterinary exam will reveal reddened and inflamed gums.  Periodontal disease can also  lead to other health problems in the body such as heart, kidney or liver disease as well as diabetes. These diseases shorten the lifespan of the dog.                                                                                                                                      

Gingivitis can be cured with a professional dental cleaning followed by home care.       Periodontal disease has no cure but can be slowed with treatment.  The first treatment is professional dental cleaning under anesthesia. I have seen several ads for anesthesia-free dentistry but it is controversial.  This type of cleaning is not as thorough and is illegal in some states.  Dental x-rays are extremely valuable in assisting diagnosis and treatment.  A thorough cleaning may include cleaning under the gum. 

Forbes had to have a tooth extraction and is now on a soft diet for a few days.  When I brought him home , he didn't move for three hours.  I almost had to carry him out side to potty.  His medications include antibiotics and pain pills.  I think one of the reasons his disease progress this far is because he is so stoic.  He eats well, chews his biscuits and never seems to be in any discomfort. According to his vet, he has to feel better after he heals.  Needless to say, we will be on a dental program from here on.    

 According to the American Animal Health Association(AAHA) about two-thirds of pet owners are not providing basic dental care for their pets. Roughly 80% of dogs show significant oral disease by age three.   

When brushing, start on the upper teeth because that is where plaque build up is most common. Use a brush that is intended for dogs and never use toothpaste designed for humans. Most canine toothpastes have enzymatic action and are flavored to appeal to dogs. Start slowly to introduce the products to your dog.  There are finger toothbrushes that may be easier to maneuver in your dogs mouth.  Still, I know not everyone will brush their pet's teeth.  There are alternative products available that don't require brushing. Some are sprays or additives to their food or water. Some are chews impregnated with antiseptic.  And one product contains a certain seaweed which works systemically to prevent plaque when ingested.  Whichever you choose, be consistent.  Their precious lives depend upon us to provide the best care.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 A clean mouth will not only help save your dog's teeth and gums from decay, it will also reduce his risk for serious other health problems which can result when bacteria from diseased gums gets into the bloodstream.                                                                

 So please, if you haven't started a dental routine for you dog,get started now.  Prevent periodontal disease from starting in the first place and help your dog live a long healthy life.   

Forbes after Surgery

Dog Lover

Dog lover definitely describes me. Dogs have been part of my family for much of my life. I have been a dog “sister”, “mother” and friend. Each canine family member and friend has possessed distinctive traits that provided entertainment and ample companionship. These moments were not only delightful, but often disclosed exceptional love, devotion and life lessons.  My life story would not be complete without these allies and their teachings about love, conduct and respect.  I have written three books about my beloved  King Charles Cavalier Spaniel named Forbes,who rarely let me out of his sight. His devotion was so deep and our bond so strong that I feel we would often communicate just by eye contact. Forbes came to me when he was 8 months old.  He was not house-broken or leash trained. If you put him on a leash, he would splay his legs like he was a mop.  I had to drag him like this until he got the idea. I took him with me everywhere around the house.  I taught him to wait for a command to eat, to use his crate and to go up and down the stairs.  He was enrolled in obedience and I found with the right approach, he learned very easily.  Later he went to advanced training and became a Canine Good Citizen. He excelled in cuddling with no training.  A natural, he would rest his head on my chest when I watched TV. We traveled together as much as possible.  He’s been sailing, flying, biking and of course in an automobile. He would stick his head out the doggy door and watch me as I backed out of the garage with a look like,”you’re really going to leave me?” And he was always waiting for me when I returned home.  He was loved in the neighborhood and played well with “Rice,” the neighbor dog.  Sadly, he passed away suddenly although he was 13 years of age. I continue to write using him as a main character.  Now I have adopted a girl named Adele (officially, "Adorable Adele").  She is a high energy dog but also a bit shy and fearful. She is acquiring numerous new skills. She loves socks.  Yes, SOCKS.  As soon as you take one off or drop one from the laundry, she grabs it and runs with it.  She seems very pleased with herself. She has good house manners and is a good traveler but needs some practice with socialization outside the home. Follow me as I continue to learn and grow by observing Adele and other wonderful dogs.

Adele jumping.

                

                     Adele

How to keep your dog safe.

How to keep your dog safe.

First,

How to keep your dog safe.


First, never leave your fur baby alone in a car. The temperature inside of an automobile can reach extreme temperatures even in seemingly mild weather. In the cold weather, your canine can freeze to death as the temperature plunges downward. And leaving the motor running won't keep your dog safe as carbon monoxide can build up causing poisoning and death. Keeping your dog safe in a moving vehicle is as simple as purchasing a suitable restraint or car seat. Dogs chase instinctively and can jump out car windows, be it moving or not, to catch their prey.

Tinsel on the tree looks fun for dogs and puppies but it can easily get caught in their throats. And while we're on the subject of Christmas, don't leave any food, no matter how well wrapped or packaged it appears. With their acute sense of smell, a dog can find and tear open the food meant for human consumption. Chocolate contains theobromine which can seriously harm dogs. Candy can cause cavities just like as in humans. I've seen dogs swallow candy, wrapper and all. Candy wrappers do not do well in their digestive tract. Many indigestible foods will just pass through their intestinal tract, but it could cause obstruction, intestinal bleeding and diarrhea. Nuts and many other snacks have way too much sodium content for canine bodies. Check my post called Don't give a Dog a Bone, for other foods not safe for consumption.

Extreme weather conditions, either heat or cold should be avoided.

A dog exposed to freezing temperatures can not only develop hypothermia (a low core body temperature) but can also develop pneumonia. Older dogs and puppies are especially vulnerable. In snowy weather, dogs with long fur on their paws(like Cavaliers) can develop ice balls between their digits. It's important to check their pads often and clean them. Salt and other deicing materials can adhere to their pads and cause irritation. As important as keeping them warm in winter, is keeping them cool in summer. Make sure they have plenty of water and perhaps a cooling pad.

Use caution in the wilderness.

If you live or are visiting uninhabited or rural areas, there are certain precautions to which you should adhere. Smaller dogs can be prey for coyotes and even large birds. Never leave them alone in these areas. When hiking, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. Many places now offer rattlesnake avoidance training. Check with your local pet store or your veterinarian. Again check their pads often for splinters and burrs. Look for signs of fatigue and overheating such as excessive panting.

Doggy proof the house!

Just like babies, dogs can be curious about their environment. Keep exploring to a minimum by partitioning off areas so you can keep an eye on the puppy. I caught my little guy chewing on a lamp cord once. I sprayed all cords with bitter apple spray as a deterrent. Crating while you are out of the house is also recommended. Because dogs have a heightened sense of smell, keep trash containers that may have food in them secured. Take a second look around the house to see if there are any other items that your fur baby would be interested in that could harm him/her. If you let your dog out into the backyard, make sure it is secure and fencing is in good condition. Inspect your yard for wasp or hornet nests. If you have a pool, don't assume Fido can swim. Most dogs can, but they can tire and get disoriented easily and can't find their way out. Dog drownings do occur. A scamper ramp can be installed allowing a dog to easily climb out of the pool. A lifejacket is a necessity if you take your dog boating. Here's to your dog's safety!

Don't give a Dog a Bone!

                                                       

Think bones are good for dogs?

Think again. Don't give your dog a bone. It may seem natural to give a dog a bone, but a dog can choke on it. Bones can also splinter and cause perforations in the stomach or intestine.


I used to love to freeze grapes and eat them as a snack. But when those brown soulful puppy eyes begged for some, I was tempted to feed him some. It seemed like a healthy snack. I wondered if it was okay to give him some. Turns out it's not. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Many foods that we consume can have a detrimental effect on dogs. For instance, the next time you serve guacamole and chips, keep the guacamole out of Fido's reach. Avocados can be toxic. An occasional chip may be okay, but any more and the sodium content may be too high for their system to tolerate. Other healthy for "us" foods can be harmful. Forbes loves yogurt because someone decided to feed him "just a spoonful" but dairy products can cause intestinal disturbances including diarrhea in some dogs. Onions and garlic are poisonous. Even onion powder which is used to season many foods is poisonous.




Be careful if you have fruit trees in your yard. Many seeds and pits can cause intestinal blockages. Persimmons, plums and peach pits contain cyanide. Macadamia nuts when ingested can be fatal to a dog.


Most of us know not to give chocolate to a dog. I used to think it was the caffeine in the chocolate that was dangerous but it is a substance called theobromine that is the culprit. Theobromine and caffeine can cause increased heart rate and restlessness in dogs. Any dog showing more than mild restlessness should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.


Alcohol can cause inebriation but also create liver failure. Candy and gum sweetened with Xylitol can also cause liver failure.




Table scraps should not be fed to a dog. Table scraps often contain fat from meat and bones. Both are dangerous for dogs. Fat trimmed from meat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Even if you think it's not that fatty, the smaller dog can easily become very ill.



So make sure your dog has no access to raid the pantry or garbage can. Prevention is the best. If your dog does ingest something he shouldn't call the nearest emergency veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center -- (888) 426-4435 .