Here's a great list that I thought I would pass on...very interesting! –Kim
Here's a great video about caring for your older canine... –Kim
Here's a great article about common myths...hope you find it informative! –Kim
False. Old dogs not only learn new tricks but they thrive when trained. My late Pomeranian, Mr. Teddy, who was adopted at an estimated 10 to 13 years of age, was a training superstar in Vetstreet videos, which were filmed two weeks before he passed away. By the same token, older dogs without housetraining experience as puppies can successfully be housetrained. As long as a dog is mentally and physically capable of learning to perform a behavior and is properly motivated, it's entirely possible to train her. While intense agility training for Teddy was not realistic, teaching basic commands was.
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim
Here's a really cute video that I know you'll love! –Kim
Here are a couple really funny cartoons that I thought I would pass on! –Kim
Can you relate to this?...
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Here's a really humorous letter that I think you'll enjoy... –Kim
Harboring an Unlicensed Dog
In 1951, E.B. White — the novelist responsible for, most notably, Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little — was accused by the ASPCA of not paying his dog tax and, as a result, "harboring" an unlicensed dog. He responded by way of the following delightful letter.
Source: Letters of a Nation; Image: E.B. White with his dachshund, Minnie, via Mister Crew.
12 April 1951
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
York Avenue and East 92nd Street
New York, 28, NYDear Sirs:
I have your letter, undated, saying that I am harboring an unlicensed dog in violation
of the law. If by "harboring" you mean getting up two or three times every night to pull Minnie's blanket up over her, I am harboring a dog all right. The blanket keeps slipping off. I suppose you are wondering by now why I don't get her a sweater instead. That's a joke on you. She has a knitted sweater, but she doesn't like to wear it for sleeping; her legs are so short they work out of a sweater and her toenails get caught in the mesh, and this disturbs her rest. If Minnie doesn't get her rest, she feels it right away. I do myself, and of course with this night duty of mine, the way the blanket slips and all, I haven't had any real rest in years. Minnie is twelve.
In spite of what your inspector reported, she has a license. She is licensed in the State of Maine as an unspayed bitch, or what is more commonly called an "unspaded" bitch. She wears her metal license tag but I must say I don't particularly care for it, as it is in the shape of a hydrant, which seems to me a feeble gag, besides being pointless in the
case of a female. It is hard to believe that any state in the Union would circulate a gag like that and make people pay money for it, but Maine is always thinking of something. Maine puts up roadside crosses along the highways to mark the spots where people have lost their lives in motor accidents, so the highways are beginning to take on the appearance of a cemetery, and motoring in Maine has become a solemn experience, when one thinks mostly about death. I was driving along a road near Kittery the other day thinking about death and all of a sudden I heard the spring peepers. That changed me right away and I suddenly thought about life. It was the nicest feeling.
You asked about Minnie's name, sex, breed, and phone number. She doesn't answer the phone. She is a dachshund and can't reach it, but she wouldn't answer it even if she could, as she has no interest in outside calls. I did have a dachshund once, a male, who was interested in the telephone, and who got a great many calls, but Fred was an exceptional dog (his name was Fred) and I can't think of anything offhand that he wasn't interested in. The telephone was only one of a thousand things. He loved life — that is, he loved life if by "life" you mean "trouble," and of course the phone is almost synonymous with trouble. Minnie loves life, too, but her idea of life is a warm bed, preferably with an electric pad, and a friend in bed with her, and plenty of shut-eye, night and days. She's almost twelve. I guess I've already mentioned that. I got her from Dr. Clarence Little in 1939. He was using dachshunds in his cancer-research experiments (that was before Winchell was running the
thing) and he had a couple of extra puppies, so I wheedled Minnie out of him. She later had puppies by her own father, at Dr. Little's request. What do you think about that for a scandal? I know what Fred thought about it. He was some put out.
Sincerely yours,
E.B. White
Source: http://www.lettersofnote.com/2012/02/she-doesnt-answer-phone.html
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on. Merry Christmas! –Kim
Don't Buy – ADOPT a Shelter Dog
by Julia Szabo
If you haven't already experienced the joy of dog adoption, there's no time like the present to save a K9 life, and upgrade your own in the process.
I should know: I've been adopting dogs from shelters since 1994, when I brought home my very first pit bull, a white vision of beauty named Daisy. Since then, I've adopted dozens of dogs in every imaginable color, shape, and size. Some of them I rehomed; many wound up staying with me.
Shelter dogs have taught me more lessons about life and love than I can count or recount here. This much I can tell you: There's no nicer, more unpretentious teacher than a shelter dog! Daisy was also a brilliant literary coach, motivating me to achieve every young writer's dream: placing an article in The New Yorker.
Shelter dogs also impart excellent design advice. Thanks to my adopted dogs, I was able to summon the courage to write my first book, Animal House Style: Designing a Home to Share With Your Pets. They also inspired all my other books about pets and design.
Shelter dogs are natural-born decorators; they vote with their feet, and they don't charge a fee. Plus, they are wonderful to sleep with, especially when the weather turns cold. Shelter dogs are great in bed. At my place, every night is a four-dog night!
A visit to your local animal shelter or Dogster's adoption center (powered by Petfinder.com) will get you started on the road to K9 redemption. Need incentive? Here are 10 compelling reasons to adopt a shelter dog. What are you waiting for?
10 Compelling Reasons to Add a Shelter Dog to Your Life
With so many charismatic celebrities walking around with adopted dogs by their side — Lenny Kravitz among them — it's clear that adoption isn't just the right thing to do, it's the cool thing to do. To your adopted dog, you're the resident rock star!About the Author: The author of six books, Julia Szabo writes Dogster's Living with Dogs column and is a pet expert for Howcast.com.
Source: http://dogblog.dogster.com/2011/10/03/10-compelling-reasons-to-add-a-shelter-dog-to-your-life/?v=1
Here's a really cute pic that I thought I would pass on...how true to life! –Kim
I guess I'll just sleep over here, then...
What an amazing picture! –Kim
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
A Nativity Scene was erected in a church yard. During the night, the folks came across this scene.
An abandoned dog was looking for a comfortable, protected place to sleep. He chose baby Jesus as his comfort. No one had the heart to send him away, so he was there all night.
Maybe we should all have the good sense of this dog and curl up in Jesus' lap from time to time.... Not to mention the dog's breed was a "shepherd!"
Merry Christmas!
Source: http://puppycam.yuku.com/reply/193005/t/Re-Holiday-Photos.html
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim
Cold Weather Hazards that Threaten Your PetDec. 10, 2010
As temperatures continue to plummet, pet owners must ensure the safety and well-being of their animals.
Shelter, food and water: Cats should be kept inside at all times, year-round, to protect from the many life-threatening dangers always present outside. Dogs should also live inside. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, you are required by law to provide proper shelter. Outdoor dogs also need bedding and additional fat in their diets during the winter to help build up natural insulation. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water in a secure, non-tip dish at all times. Check the water bowl frequently to make sure that it hasn't frozen.
Keep them safe: Snow and ice increase an animal's chances of becoming disoriented and lost if roaming the streets. Bad weather conditions make it extra difficult for cars to stop, increasing the animal's chance of getting hit. Keeping pets indoors and walking your dog on a leash will prevent such tragedies.
Beware of ice, salt, and snow: Jagged ice and sidewalk salt can injure or irritate a dog's foot pads. After returning home from a walk, check the foot pads and wipe off any salt or ice with a damp towel. Also, dry your dog thoroughly whenever it comes in from the snow. Consider using doggy boots for little feet.
Danger of frostbite: Even though dogs and cats have a fur coat, most cannot endure severe cold for more than 10 to 15 minutes. A companion animal left outdoors can get frostbite and even freeze to death. Signs of frostbite include skin that is pale and cool to the touch, with decreased sensation in the affected area. If you suspect frostbite, gently warm the area with warm, not hot, water and then take the animal to a veterinarian. After thawing, there may be pain or redness on the frostbitten area. Once an area has been frozen it can become cold and frostbitten again more easily. Consider a doggy coat for your smaller canine friend.
Keep away from anti-freeze: Animals are attracted to this substance by its sweet taste. It can be fatal if ingested, so keep all anti-freeze bottles out of your pet's reach. Also be sure to clean up any spills in your garage or driveway immediately. If your cat or dog should swallow anti-freeze – or any poison – contact your veterinarian immediately.
Honk car's horn: In cold weather, cats allowed outdoors may crawl beneath cars and climb up inside the engine compartment seeking warmth and shelter. This can lead to injuries or death when the engines are started. To prevent such an occurrence, keep your cat indoors at all times. To protect stray cats, knock on your car's hood or sound your horn before starting the car in cold weather.
Keep them groomed: Animals tend to shed hair less during the cold months, but still require regular brushing. Cats generally do not need a bath – they clean themselves. Dogs should be bathed only if needed and not more than once a month. When bathing any animal, be sure to use a shampoo that is specifically safe for a cat or dog and follow label directions completely.
Holiday hazards: Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias are all poisonous to pets. Make sure your holiday tree is steady so it can't be knocked over. Protect your cat or dog from drinking stagnant Christmas tree water, eating candy, chocolate or potentially injurious ornaments, tinsel and trimming, or nibbling on the cords from decorations. Keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don't slip out the door as your visitors come and go. Do not give a cat or dog as a gift. Give a gift certificate for a pet adoption from a shelter and allow the recipient to select an animal that is appropriate for their lifestyle. Make sure your pet has a variety of toys or make your own.
Source: http://couriernews.suntimes.com/news/2767099-417/dog-animal-cat-cats-cold.html
© Copyright 2010 Sun-Times Media, LLC
Also, see:
Here's a great collection of facts that I thought I would pass on...hope you find them interesting! –Kim
Interesting Dog Facts - Part 1
A puppy's eyes do not open until it is 10 to 15 days old. Its vision is usually not complete until it is about four weeks old.
At birth, puppies are deaf, blind and have almost no sense of smell. They stay near their mother and siblings because of the warmth.
Puppies should remain with their mother until they are at least eight weeks old. During this time, she will teach them not to bite and how to get along with other dogs.
Dogs are submissive to those they feel have higher pack status.
Train your dog from day one, so she will think of you as the leader of the pack. Dogs instinctively want to earn the pack leader's approval.
The most confident puppy in a litter often makes the worst pet because he sees himself as the pack leader.
A dog can suffer from a poor self-image, just like humans. Bolster self-esteem with praise, affection and rewards.
To a young dog, exercise and play are the day's most important events. As a dog gets older, he lives for dinner time.
Even after your dog is old enough to be fed only once a day, he should be given a morning snack just to calm his rumbling tummy.
Family dogs who growl when family members are roughhousing aren't upset, they're just asking to become part of the game.
Give your new puppy its own sleeping den, even a simple cardboard box will do; this will make her feel more secure.
Ignore your new puppy's whining when you first isolate it for sleeping. If you don't you will only encourage it to whine more.
Sign up your dog for obedience school.
The most important thing you can teach your dog is to sit and stay on command. Anytime you are having behavioral problems with your dog, begin your training by reteaching him to sit and stay.
The time to start teaching your dog to sit and stay is the day you bring her home.
Don't attempt to teach your dog anything else until he will sit and stay on command for at least one minute.
When teaching a puppy to come, begin by getting down to his level so he will not be encouraged to jump up on you.
A dog needs to work off excess energy every day.
Mixed-breed dogs usually have behavioral traits similar to the breed they most resemble in appearance.
When a small dog is aggressive toward people, don't pick him up. This only reinforces the behavior since he will see it as a reward.
Teach your dog to play catch.
Anyone can buy a dog, but it takes a kind owner to set its tail wagging.
Although a dog might be jealous of a new puppy in the beginning, this usually passes quickly since dogs are social animals.
Dogs become loyal, not because you feed them, but because of the companionship you give them.
Give your small or short-haired dog a sweater for winter walks.
Most dogs don't like to be left alone, so they howl. Leave the radio or television on to keep your dog company when you are away.
Dogs have twice as many muscles for moving their ears as people.
Housebreaking a puppy is just like toilet-training a child. First, you learn to recognize the signs; then, you react every time you see them.
Man could learn much from his dog: to be a true friend, to be faithful and to appreciate those who love him.
When a puppy is removed from its mother, don't make it spend the first night alone. Its loss of family is enough for one night.
As soon as your new pet is comfortable with its new home, move it to the location where you will want it to sleep for its lifetime.
A dog's nose is not just used for smelling, but also to keep him cool. That's why a dog pants. The longer the dog's nose, the better his cooling system works.
Dogs that chase cars have learned that cars run away. This behavior is reinforced each time he chases one away.
Teach your dog to fetch.
Never wake a sleeping dog by poking or shaking it.
Dogs are perfect companions. They never quarrel, fuss or fight with you, and they listen with great interest any time you speak in their direction.
A dog's smile runs from the depth of his eyes to the tip of his tail.
If you're finding it difficult to teach your dog to catch a ball, try tossing something soft like a knotted piece of fabric instead. Some dogs find softer items easier to catch.
Dogs love rituals and routines.
Anyone who says he works like a dog obviously doesn't own one.
Staring directly into the eyes of a strange dog may be interpreted as a challenge and may actually encourage the dog to bite you.
Dogs and cats turn in circles before lying down, because in the wild, this instinctive action turns long grass into a bed.
When walking your dog, put a few plastic bags in your pocket; they make great "scoopers." Slip one over your hand, pick up the pile, flip it inside out, tie and discard.
The average dog's mouth exerts 150 to 200 pounds of pressure per square inch. Some dogs can apply up to 450 pounds.
Puppies can't control their bladders overnight until they are at least four months old. Until then, cover the floor around the puppy's bed with newspapers.
Dogs are omnivorous. They need more than just meat to flourish.
People with more than one dog shouldn't try to treat them all as equals. Because pack position is important to a dog, this only encourages jealousy games.
All dog owners should buy a long-handled pooper-scooper. It makes keeping the yard clean a breeze.
Dogs chew up your underwear because it smells like you.
You don't have to put up with your dog destroying flower beds or digging up the yard; simply fence off a separate section just for him.
Always say your dog's name before you give a command.
One in every three US families owns one or more dogs.
Choke chains can be dangerous.
A one-year-old dog is physically as mature as a 15 year-old human.
Dogs' internal clocks are really magnificent. They know when it's time for you to arrive home, feed them, or go to bed if you are normally on a schedule.
Brush your dog 3 times a week in the spring, and you'll have a summer free from shedding.
If someone in your household is allergic to dogs, bathe your dog every week. He will shed less dry skin. You can also add a teaspoon of cooking oil to your dog's dinner.
The only problem with loving a dog is that they live for only a short time.
If your dog reacts anti-socially toward visitors, put her in another room until she calms down. When you let her out, ignore her. This forces your dog to go to the visitors to get their social activity.
When a dog bays at the moon, it is following a basic urge to call the pack together.
Rituals are a basic part of canine behavior. Greeting, feeding, hunting and sleeping all include social performances.
The burying of bones is part of a dog's instinctive feeding ritual; shaking things viciously is part of the hunting ritual.
Source: http://www.dogquotes.com/dogfacts.htm
Copyright © 2001-2008 Australian Media Pty LTD
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim
Your furry family member needs a warm, comfortable bed for the same reasons you do. A dog bed allows your pet to have his own space – a place to get a good night's sleep, relax when he is tired, or enjoy a safe, quiet retreat when life gets too hectic. It also provides him with insulation from a cold, hard floor and cushioned support for joints and bones.
nest? A soft, pillow-type bed or a "cave" may be the best choice (left).
hazards that may be harmful to your dog.
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