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.
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.
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.
- 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)
- Give an extra set of keys to a neighbor.
- 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.
- Maintain a clean yard and keep hedges trimmed to decrease the likelihood of a brush fire igniting near your home.
- 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:
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:
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)
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)
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!
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!
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