Five Ways to Preventing Heatstroke in your Dog

August 13, 2011

In extreme temperatures, all dogs are at risk - even dogs who you feel may be acclimated to hot weather. However, air temperature is only one consideration. Humidity, sun exposure (or lack of shade), amount of time in the heat, the level of exertion, and availability of water can all affect how well a dog tolerates heat. Be aware of signs of heat distress, such as excessive panting or drooling, reddened gums, listlessness, or rapid heartbeat. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to help prevent your dog from getting so overheated that he suffers heat stress or heatstroke.

1) AVOID EXPOSING YOUR DOG UNDULY TO EXTRAORDINARY HEATH. If you must leave your dog outside, ensure he has ample methods for staying cool - plenty of shade, lots of fresh, cool water to drink, and perhaps the cooling breeze of a fan.

2) MODIFY YOUR DOG'S EXERCISE ROUTINE IN HOT WEATHER. Walk him after dark or before dawn. Incorporate swimming or water play into your dog's usual game of fetch. During severe heat, forego any sort of rigorous exercise for a few days.

3) GET HIM WET. Hose your dog down, put him in the tub, mist him with a spray bottle, or wipe his coat with a sopping wet towel. In a dry climate, the evaporation will help lower his body temperature. In a humid environment, you'll need to get some extra air flowing over him for a wet coat to help him cool down.

4) PROVIDE AMPLE WATER. Make sure your dog has lots of fresh, cool water - preferably from more than one source, as dogs always seem to drink more when they have more options.

5) USE AN EVAPORATIVE COOLING VEST, COAT, BANDANNA, OR MAT. There are plenty of these products on the market. Look for garments that are wetted and gradually release water through evaporation (example: HyperKewl Evaporative Cooling Dog Coat by TechNiche International). But in a pinch, even a plain cotton T-shirt or bandanna, wetted and worn by the dog, can help provide some evaporative cooling.

* Summary of article written by Nancy Kerns, for Whole Dog Journal Vol. 14 #8, August, 2011
(www.whole-dog-journal.com)

A Hot Oven or a Hot Car . . . Its the Same Thing

August 6, 2011

The Morons at Consumer Reports

August 3, 2011

In a recent article called "Tame Your Pet Costs", Consumer Reports magazine states, in summary, that basically all dog foods are the same, nutritionally speaking, as they all meet the minimum standards for nutrition required by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. The article then goes on to indicate that Walmart's Ol' Roy is the best buy, at just 34 cents per pound.

Ol' Roy receives the lowest rating given on DogFoodAdvisor.com, one star. So, lets see what you get for your money when you purchase Ol' Roy. For a mere 34 cents per pound, you get ground yellow corn, meat & bone meal, soybean meal, chicken by-product meal, wheat middlings, & animal fat. Sound appetising?

Let's breakdown these ingredients. It is important to understand that when reading dog food labels, the first 2-3 ingredients listed are the ingredients that make up the majority of the food.

The dominant ingredient in Ol'Roy is corn. Then we have meat & bone meal. What is that? Meat & bone meal is a dry “rendered product from mammal tissues, including bone, exclusive of blood, hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents.

Next we have soybean meal. This is what remains of soybeans after all the oil has been removed.

Now, we're to the chicken by-product meal. This is a dry rendered product of slaughterhouse waste. In other words, this is a mixture of all the stuff that hits the slaughterhouse floor after removing the prime cuts of meat for humans. This can contain almost anything...feet, beaks, internal organs, undeveloped eggs, maggots, feces, basically anything (that is) except real meat. In a nutshell, chicken by-products are those unsavory leftovers usually considered "unfit for human consumption".

Next, wheat middlings - this is nothing more than milling dust and floor sweepings.

Lastly, animal fat. Animal fat is a generic by-product. Since there’s no mention of a specific animal, this item could come from almost anywhere. Common sources are restaurant grease, slaughterhouse waste, diseased cattle, and even euthanized pets. What’s worse, this fat is preserved with BHA, a suspected cancer-causing agent (carcinogen).

So, Consumer Reports, please tell me, after looking at the facts, how you can possibly feel that all dog food is the same?

LIVING IN HARMONY (Dogs & Children) - Entry #4 - When Play Gets Carried Away

July 30, 2011

Dogs and children are often great playmates, but children may become upset if they're the recipient of an accidental nip.

"Puppies and young dogs that get too rough while playing are normal," says Pam Reid, Ph.D, vice president of animal behavior at New York's ASPCA Animal Behavior Center. "They just don't yet realize that they're too rambunctious in their play with people. Once they learn that people are more fragile than other dogs, they temper their play."

Your child can help enforce limits by reacting with a sharp "No!" when the dog gets too jumpy or mouthy, and by turning his back until the dog settles. It's also helpful if your child understands the difference between a playful pup and an aggressive dog.

"A dog who's playing will be relaxed and loose in his movements: his tail will be relaxed & wagging, his face will look like he's having fun," Reid says.

An aggressive dog's demeanor will be rigid and tense. "He'll probably freeze before nipping. His tail might be wagging, but it will be firm and stiff. His growl will sound more serious."

Teach children that if they ever feel uncomfortable, they should slowly walk away from the dog, avoiding eye contact. "Avoid screaming, running, or flailing arms," Reid says.

* The above information written by Debbie Swanson & taken from DogFancy Magazine - May, 2011 issue.

West Nile Is Still On The Move

July 23, 2011

While the threat of West Nile virus to dogs is small, the range of the illness in 2010 spread across the 48 contiguous United States and to British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, Canada. Experts consider it to be a seasonal virus that flares in summer and continues into fall, roughly from May to October.

The virus, spread by mosquitoes, causes encephalitis - swelling of the brain. Symptoms in dogs include decreased appetite, difficulty walking and holding the head normally, circling, and tremors, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. However, dogs also may show no symptoms after infection, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports. There is no specific treatment, and there is no documented evidence of dog-to-human transmission of West Nile.

No vaccine exists against the virus. The prevention: avoidance. Keep dogs indoors in the early morning and the evening, when mosquitoes are most likely to be out, the AAHA says. Use only mosquito repellent approved for use on dogs - never DEET-based products, which can make dogs ill. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.


* The above taken from DogFancy magazine - May, 2011 issue.

PUPPY CAM IS BACK!!!!

July 22, 2011

You heard right! Puppy cam is BACK! Puppy cam will be live Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. CST to 6 p.m. CST. On Saturdays & Sundays, we'll be showing videos from the previous week, so you can catch up on what you may have missed. Since we have two litters at the same time (and only one webcam), we'll show Geisha's litter on even dates and Ju-Ju's litter on odd dates.

Enjoy!!!


Streaming Live by Ustream

ANOTHER BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT

July 20, 2011

Just 5 days after Geisha's litter of five was born, Ju-Ju has delivered FOUR beautiful puppies! The puppies (2 girls and 2 boys) were born Wednesday evening, July 20th. We are sure going to be busy for the next 8 weeks! I can't wait to hear the pitter patter of 9 little sets of puppy feet running around the house!

Taking the Bite Out of Teething

July 16, 2011

Poor puppy! Just when those 28 puppy teeth come in, those 42 adult teeth start clambering to the surface. You can help ease the pain - naturally.

In addition to providing chew toys, putting ice chips in the water bowl, and massaging the gums, herbal remedies may also help. Chamomile can calm uncomfortable pups when the tea is given as a drink. Steep one teaspoon of dried herb in 8 ounces of water and let cool.

Likewise, the homeopathic remedy Chamomile can be used, with a low potency, given two or three times per day. Try freezing aloe vera juice into cubes or in a paper cup that can be peeled away. Rub the frozen juice on your puppy's gums to ease irritation and banish pain.

The teething stage lasts several months. Then, you'll need to be sure to hide the shoes from those brand new pearly whites.

* Information taken from DogFancy magazine - May, 2011 Issue

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT

July 15, 2011


We are very proud to announce that Geisha has had her final litter. The puppies were born on Friday, July 15, 2011. She is the proud mama of 5 beautiful & healthy puppies (3 girls & 2 boys)! We will have the puppy cam up soon! In the mean time, enjoy the pictures below! For more pictures, please check out our Facebook page.

If you live in the 48 contiguous United States and are looking to add a new fluffy family member to your home, please feel free to contact us at SweetSamuraiKennels@gmail.com for an application.

LIVING IN HARMONY (Dogs & Children) - Entry #3 - The Right Way to Show Love

July 9, 2011

Affectionate children might not think twice about giving their favorite canine a great big hug. But parents should use good judgment before allowing such an embrace. A toy breed could be injured by an overzealous hug, and a puppy or high-strung dog may act unpredictably or feel cornered by it. Some dogs interpret hugging as a sign of dominance.

"Socialization plays a big part as well. If the dog is raised with the child and is used to human hugs, then I see no problem," says Jordan Buccola-Bautista, a behaviorist with the Louisiana SPCA. "A parent should always show a child how to be gentle, not to hold the dog against their will, and if [the dog is] struggling to get out of the hug, definitely let go!" says Buccola-Bautista, adding that children should never approach a dog if they are a stranger to it.

Because not all dog cozy up to a hug, teach children to display their affection with more dog-approved methods, such as a back scratch, gentle pat, or playtime.

The dog in this picture is clearly not enjoying himself. His eyes are wide and he is stiffly leaning away from the child. Additionally, the dog is "tongue flicking", which is a sign of stress. The parents of this child should not be letting her hug this dog.

* Above information taken from DogFancy magazine - March, 2011 issue.

The ThunderShirt

July 2, 2011

Independence Day is right around the corner. This is a pretty scary time for many of our four-legged friends. Fireworks can cause quite a bit of fright and anxiety. Accordingly, I thought this would be a good time to discuss a product called the Thundershirt.

According to a veterinarian I saw on NBC (sorry guys - can't remember the vet's name), constant pressure on one's nervous system provides a soothing & calming effect. This is why babies are comforted through swaddling. It seems this is a rule that also applies to our canine friends. Thus is the basis of the Thundershirt.

The product's website (www.thundershirt.com) claims: "Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure is a terrific solution for many types of dog anxiety, fearfulness, barking and more." Now, as a trainer, I am skeptical that the thundershirt alone can magically solve all of your dog's problems. However, I do recognize how the use of tools such as this one, are beneficial. And in connection with other training techniques, these tools can help to alleviate the symptoms that commonly accompany anxiety in dogs.

Have you used the Thundershirt for your dog? If so, I'd love to hear the results!

LIVING IN HARMONY (Dogs & Children) - Entry #2 - A List of Quick Tips

June 18, 2011

Here are some quick tips for helping to keep the peace between your children & dogs:

• Before getting a dog, seek advice from veterinarians, vet techs or other knowledgeable pet care professionals.
• Make sure any dog acquired by a family with children was well-socialized, especially to children, as a young puppy and into adolescence.
• Teach kids to stay out of the dog’s personal space when the dog is eating, sleeping, injured or has puppies.
• Don’t startle or surprise any dog –let the dog know when you are approaching.
• Avoid hugging, kissing or any activity that puts your face in close proximity to the dog’s face.
• Supervise all interactions between dogs and children and be sure that both adult and child know the body signs that indicate fear or anxiety.
• When signs of fear or anxiety are observed, stop interactions between child and dog.
• Provide dogs with a child-free zone in which to retreat—such as a baby-gated room or a kennel or crate.
• Don’t allow children to mistreat the family dog, teach them to interact appropriately.
• Don’t approach strange dogs without the owners’ permission.
• Don’t approach loose dogs or ones tied out on long lines.
• Don’t reach through a fence to pet a dog.
• Don’t reach into a car window to pet a dog.
• Do train your pet to obey basic commands such as sit, lie down and come when called by having clear expectations and rewarding the good behaviors with something the dog enjoys
• For dog households with children, teach the dog good things happen when children are close by.

* Above information taken from: http://positively.com/2011/05/17/why-dogs-bite-children-a-lesson-in-preventing-dog-bites-in-kids/

The Magnificent & Wonderous KONG!

June 16, 2011

If you have not yet discovered the amazing Kong and its many uses, boy are you missing out! Not only does the strong & durable rubber satisfy the needs of avid chewers, but the treat-dispensing ability of this toy is invaluable!

Whether your dog needs a distraction, mental stimulation, or simply relief from boredom in order to deter destructive behavior, the Kong is a tool you can't afford to be without.

The problem we have been running into lately is trying to decide what to stuffing we should use for our dogs' Kongs. Frozen peanut butter has always been a favorite, but like people, dogs can get bored with the same old thing. Fortunately, after much internet research, I discovered some more tasty recipes that I'd like to share with you.

Banana Rama

Fresh Banana

2 Tbsp wheat germ

1 Tbsp plain yogurt

In a bowl, mash up banana. Then add wheat germ & Yogurt. Mash all ingredients together & use a spoon to stuff in Kong. Freeze for 4 hours. Makes 1 serving in a medium Kong (Double recipe for every larger Kong size)

*************

Philly Steak

Steak scraps

1 oz cream cheese

Place small scraps of the steak inside the Kong toy. Spread cream cheese in large hole to hold scraps.

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Fruit Salad

Peaches, Apples, Carrot Chunks

1/4 of a Banana

Place apples & carrots in Kong toy. Push banana in large hole to hold fruit in place. You can include other fruits & veggies such as orange slices, plums, nectarine chunks, celery sticks, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. (Be sure not to include any human foods that are unsafe for canine consumption.)

*************

Veggie Kong Omelet

1 egg

Shredded Cheese

Any vegetable safe for canine consumption

Scramble egg & fold in vegetables. Put in Kong toy. Sprinkle some cheese over the top of the Kong toy opening & microwave for about 20 seconds. Cool thoroughly before giving to dog.

*************

Frozen Jerky Pops

Peanut Butter

Bouillon

Jerky Strips

Water

Smear a small amount of peanut butter over small hole in Kong toy. Fill the toy with cool water & add a pinch of bouillon. Place jerky stick inside Kong toy and freeze. This also can be put in (once frozen) in a children's size swimming pool for a fun day of fishing for your pet.

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Crunch 'N Munch

Crumbled Rice Cakes

Dried Fruit

Cream Cheese

Plain Croutons

Combine all ingredients & place in Kong.

*************

Pumpkin Pieces

Plain Yogurt

Canned Pumpkin

Cooked Rice

Combine all ingredients in a small Ziploc baggie & mix thoroughly. Snip off the corner of the bag & squeeze mixture into Kong. Freeze.

*************

To add a bit of complication, try layering the treats in the Kong. For example, try a Kibble-Sicle: Put a glob of peanut butter into the Kong first. Then add some dry dog food. Pour in some chicken broth. Add some more peanut butter, followed by more kibble. End with another glob of peanut butter at the very top. Freeze until solid. To the left, you'll see an example of a well-stuffed, layered Kong

Bottom line: You can be as creative as you want to be. Just be sure to only feed your dog foods that you know are safe. If you have a question about whether a human food is safe, visit ASPCA.org or visit previous entries in this blog that discuss that topic.

Just remember to make it fun & tasty. The Kong will do the rest!

Do you have any Kong recipes you'd like to share? Let us know! We'd love to hear from you!

Help for Allergy Sufferers

June 11, 2011

As one who has suffered with allergies all my life, I know how miserable they can make a person. If you have allergies like me, DogFancy magazine offers tips for us:

Always consult with an allergist first to understand the severity of the reaction and to learn methods to manage it. Then consider how to minimize the symptoms.

Bathing dogs with special shampoos, giving them oral agents, or using vacuum filters can help, but don't always work for every allergy sufferer, says American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. When vacuuming and grooming your dog aren't enough, ACAAI suggests taking these steps to further reduce the irritants in the household:

• Avoid carpeting: Hardwood or polished floors are less likely to harbor allergens.
• Banish fabrics: Avoid fabric or upholstered furniture; use blinds or shades instead of fabric curtains.
• Launder properly: ACAAI states that the best way to remove dog dander from fabric is to wash at 140 degrees with one rinse; at any temperature with two rinses; or use a steam washing machine.
• Cover pillows and mattresses: Studies show that using tightly woven fabric with openings less than 4 microns wide can reduce allergens.
  

For best results, incorporate as many of these changes as possible, particularly in the areas where allergy-sufferers sleep.

* Above information taken from DogFancy Magazine - March, 2011 issue.

Deaths of Dogs in Hot Cars Already Reported This Year

June 10, 2011

We haven't hit summer yet, but already much of the nation has hit record high temperatures. Unfortunately, there have already been numerous reports of dog deaths due to being left in hot cars.

The Animal Protection Institute did a study on hot cars not too long ago. The study showed how even moderately warm temperatures outside can lead to deadly temperatures inside a car - even with the windows partially open. In fact, cracking the windows did very little to slow the rise of temperature in the vehicle. Below are their findings:

* Information taken from www.mydogiscool.com/x_car_study.php

Delicious Oatmeal Dog Treats

June 4, 2011

A big THANK YOU to my good friend and grandpuppy owner, Terri Corsner for the following recipe! You can check out her website at http://www.amedeajapanesespitz.com.

Ingredients:
3 Cups Oatmeal, uncooked
1 1/2 Cups whole-wheat flour
4 – 6 oz cold water (depending if your dog likes soft, or crunchy treats)
2 Baby Food jars of meat with gravy (Beef/Chicken/Ham/Turkey) – 2.5 oz each
2 Baby Food jars of Vegetable, or Fruit (I use Carrots) – 4 oz each
1 Tablespoon parsley, chopped (All natural breath freshener)
2 Egg yolks
1 Teaspoon baking soda

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together. Spoon onto a greased cookie sheet into desired size. I use a melon baller for bite size reward treats. Bake 10 to 12 minutes at 400 degrees. Place on a cooling rack. Store in refrigerator.

LIVING IN HARMONY (Dogs & Children) - Entry #1

June 4, 2011

Last month was Dog Bite Prevention Awareness Month. Every year in the U.S., nearly one million people are bitten bad enough by a dog to require a hospital visit. To many people, those bites may seem to be out-of-the-blue. However, those of us in the "know", know better.

Positively.com reports: Says Dianne Fabretti, a registered veterinary technician for the Sacramento County Animal Care and Regulation, “We read [bite reports] and it tends to be people don’t know body language of animals [and] they don’t exhibit proper behavior to the animals so the animal behaves as an animal.”

She emphasizes further, “People don’t educate their children as to how to handle and act around animals. I know that. I have one son and two stepsons and I was always amazed what kids do and how much more training kids need in terms of how to act around the animals.”

It’s all in the education according to Fabretti and the worst part, is that when children are not taught what to do and what to avoid around dogs, dogs get into situations where they need to defend themselves and the results are not only bad for the kids but can be much worse for the dog. Says Fabretti, “When animals do bite, people get emotional. The [dogs] end up here and most are euthanized.”

It is the ALWAYS the responsibility of the parent to teach their children appropriate dog interaction, and to monitor those children around the family dog. It is my hope that this blog series will help educate parents on this subject.

* The above italicized information taken from Why Dogs Bite Children-
http://positively.com/2011/05/17/why-dogs-bite-children-a-lesson-in-preventing-dog-bites-in-kids/

HAPPY EASTER!

April 24, 2011

On this wonderful and joyous day, we at Sweet Samurai would like to wish you all a very Happy Easter and to remind you that common Easter items contain dangers for your pets. In particular, please keep Easter Lilies and chocolate out of the reach of your beloved four-legged family members. For a list of other springtime poisons, check out our previous blog entry here: http://sweetsamuraikennels.blogspot.com/2009/03/spring-time-poisons.html.

If you're looking for a sweet treat to give your pooch this Easter, why no go the natural route with these tasty options:
Apple slices
Strawberry tops
Peach slices
Red bell peppers
Green bell peppers
Romaine lettuce
Watermelon

But most importantly, don't forget the real reason why we celebrate this holiday - Jesus is Risen!!!

Helping Your Pet Adjust to New Situations (Entry #4 - Tips for Calming an Anxious Pet)

April 10, 2011

Since unfamiliar situations or disruptions in routine can sometimes make your pet feel uneasy, try these simple tips to help soothe your pet's frazzled nerves.

• Make an extra effort to retain as much of your pet's familiar schedule as possible.
• Choose specific key phrases to say each time you perform a certain action, so that your pet begins to identify repeated cues and establish a new sense of routine. For example, each time you leave the house, calmly say something like, "Be good."
• Stabilize your pet's routine by feeding meals at the same time each day and incorporating a set daily playtime.
• Provide stimulating, interactive toys to give your pet a distraction.
• Play soft music or leave a radio or TV on in the background.

Above all, its important to recognize that your pet needs time to adjust. Be patient and give him ample time to regain his bearings.

* Information provided by VPI Pet Insurance (VetPetHealth.com / 866-Vet-Pets)

Fire Safety

April 3, 2011

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 500,000 household pets are killed in household fires each year. Following these safety steps (provided by Dog World magazine) might protect your dog from a fire.

1. Adhere pet decals on your home's front windows to alert first responders that you have a dog inside. Pet decals can be found at pet-supply stores, local fire departments, home-security companies, and online. (In fact, SunBear Squad provides a great decal: http://www.sunbearsquad.org/files/wallet_rescue_cards.pdf)
2. Give an extra set of keys to a neighbor.
3. Consider investing in a monitored alarm system with remote access control. This will automatically alert the fire department if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected in your home.
4. Maintain a clean yard and keep hedges trimmed to decrease the likelihood of a brush fire igniting near your home.
5. Have your heating system inspected for gas leaks each fall. Every year, carbon monoxide is responsible for more than 400 human deaths and 20,000 trips to the emergency room.
   

Helping Your Pet Adjust to New Situations (Entry #3 - Getting Along Like Cats & Dogs)

March 27, 2011

Even for the friendliest of animals, introducing another pet into your home can cause stress. Questions of who ranks where in the pack can induce unwanted behaviors from both pets. But with a little patience and dedication on your part, even dogs and cats can become the best of pals. Just keep the following in mind when introducing another pet into your home:

• If introducing dogs, make sure the first meeting takes place on neutral territory, rather than in the home or on the property. Then, bring both dogs into the home together.
• Always supervise pets until you know how they will get along.
• Keep pets - including those of the same species - on opposite sides of a closed door to allow them to sniff each other without coming into full contact. Once they are comfortable with each others' scents, use a baby gate to visually introduce them to one another.
• Keep dogs leashed to maintain control during introductions to new people and pets.
• For new cats, consider creating a "refuge room" to which they can safely and comfortably retreat.
• Separate pets when leaving home. Provide each with necessities such as fresh water, food, bed, toys, litter box, etc.

* Information provided by VPI Pet Insurance
(www.vetpethealth.com / 866-vet-pets)

Puppy Proofing Your Home

March 20, 2011

Today is the first day of spring. This means that puppy season is here. Shelters and rescues across the country are already inundated with an abundance of homeless baby puppies. With all of these puppies available, you may be thinking about bringing one (or a few) of these youngsters into your home. If so, be vigilant! A puppy's natural curiosity can turn disastrous if he gets into the wrong thing. Watch out for these top trouble spots (as reported by Dog Fancy magazine):

IN THE HOME:

• Electrical cords
• Garbage
• People food (especially chocolate, raisins, grapes, and any type of gum)
• Animal bones
• Any chemicals, including household cleaners
• Socks or other items made from fabric or string
• Medication / vitamins

IN THE YARD:

• Antifreeze
• Azaleas
• Rhododendron
• Oleander
• Calla Lilies
• Hydrangea
• Broken Fencing
• Cocoa Mulch

Consider creating a "safe zone" inside your home or yard for times when your puppy must stay home alone. Use an exercise pen or baby gate to secure his special spot, and fill it with safe chew toys and other safe toys to keep him busy - and safe - while you're away.

Helping Your Pet Adjust to New Situations (Entry #2 - The Moving Blues)

March 13, 2011

Moving to a new home can be a stressful time for pets. An unfamiliar place filled with box upon unpacked box can be overwhelming, but you can help your pet acclimate quickly and safely with a few simple steps.

Microchip
Be sure to microchip dogs and cats or update your microchip contact information in case your pet accidentally wanders off and gets lost.

Refuge
For dogs, consider boarding or daycare during your move. For cats, try confining them to a "refuge room" while packing and unpacking. Play soft music or other white noise to distract your cat from the commotion of moving.

Welcome
Unpack familiar pet items first such as beds, bowls, and toys to help your pet feel more at home.

Ready to Go
If possible, bring your pet into your new home with everything already unpacked and arranged. Having familiar furniture in place helps things feel less hectic and more settled.

Explore
If you have a dog, spend extra time walking around your new neighborhood together so that he can identify the new smells and begin learning where his new home is located.

Be Prepared
Find the 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital nearest your home and create an emergency plan.

*Information provided by VPI Pet Insurance
(VetPetHealth.com / 866-Vet-Pets)

Treat Recipe - "Meat Lover's Biscuits"

March 6, 2011

Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 cups whole wheat flour

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix together the beef and eggs in a bowl, using your hands, if necessary, to mix completely. In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the oats; then gradually mix in the beef-egg mixture, again using your hands, until mixed thoroughly. Add the water to form a sticky dough.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 3 minutes. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness, and cut into desired shapes with a cookie cutter. Use a greased cookie sheet, and bake for 80 minutes. Allow to cool in oven for several hours, and then store at room temperature for up to four weeks.

(Recipe yields 6 dozen)

* Recipe reprinted from Dr. Khalsa's Natural Dog (available at www.shopanimalnetwork.com)

Animal Shelter Dog "Breed" Requests

February 2, 2011

I recently came across an amusing blog article that I just had to share, thanks to FOR THE LOVE OF DOG BLOG (http://fortheloveofdogblog.com/).

Many animal shelters give potential adopters the option of filling out an application for a dog. In these applications, they are able to request a certain breed they may be looking for. Shelters will keep the list and call if they have the requested breed of dog come in for adoption.

If you need a laugh today, here is a list of some of the wanted dog "breeds" collected from actual applications at some animal shelters:

Westminster Terrier
Rhode Island Ridgeback
Palmeranian
Copper Spaniel
Cocker Spaniard
Black Labrador (from a license app, requested dog's color was "yellow")
Shit Sue
Dorky Terrier
Lopso Apso
El Paso (attempt at Lhasa Apso)
Highland Heeler
Alaskan Malibu
Belgian Manawa
Belgium Malenoise
Basket Hound
Bagle
Welch Corgi
Wild Haired Terrier
Carrion Terrier
Wineamimer
Rockwelders
Rottenwiler
Great Pekingese (suppose to be "Pyrenees")
Great Pyramid
Miniature Datsun
Irish Settler
Jack Daniels Terrier
German Police Man
Chesapeake A Retriever
Borderline Collie
Chevy King Charles (Cavalier)

Unfortunately, this list is not surprising to me, though it is definitely quite amusing. I surf the pet section of Craigslist frequently, and have seen ads and misspellings of breeds even crazier than what is listed above!