Monday, November 21, 2011
Is your dog smarter than a two-year old?
Alexandra Horowitz explores this question in her NY Times article, here.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Socialization - The Magic Pill for Puppies
Dr. Lisa Radosta has a great blog post about socialization for puppies here.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Tips for Colder Weather - Part Two
Here is Part Two of my series about keeping pets safe in colder weather. Part Three will be a post about keeping pets safe around the holidays.
1. Don't shave your pet in the winter. They need their coats to stay warm!
2. If your pet gets cold despite having a full coat (not uncommon), consider using a coat or sweater. Not all animals like to wear clothing, so it's important to get them used to it gradually. Put on the coat, give them a treat, and take it off. Gradually increase the length of time your pet is wearing the coat, and always pair it with something particularly yummy, to create a good association -- putting on the coat predicts a delicious treat!
3. Consider booties for your dog to protect his or her feet from snow and ice. As with coats, make sure to gradually get your dog used to wearing them.
4. Sick or older pets are particularly sensitive to the cold. Make sure they are only outside when absolutely necessary, and provide them with warm, comfy places to sleep.
5. De-icing and ice melting products can be toxic. Be sure to keep them sealed and out of the reach of your pets.
6. Vehicles can act as a refrigerator in cold weather by holding the cold inside. Be very cautious about leaving your pets in your vehicle during cold weather.
7. Pets can lose scent in snow and ice and get lost -- make sure your pet has identification, such as tags and a tattoo and/or microchip so that if he or she gets lost, it is easier for them to be reunited with you.
8. If your pet is out in the cold and starts to shiver or shake, get them back into a warm sheltered place immediately. If you suspect hypothermia, contact your vet immediately.
9. Beware of frozen lakes and ponds -- they are not always frozen all the way through, and pets can fall through the ice.
10. Arthritis is worse in cold and damp weather, so if you suspect your pet has arthritis, see your vet. Take special care to handle a pet with arthritis (or suspected arthritis) gently, avoid icy walks, provide soft and warm bedding, and give any medications that your vet prescribes.
11. Be careful of having portable heaters -- they can be a hazard. Pets can burn themselves or knock the heaters over, risking a fire.
12. Dogs should not be riding unsecured in the backs of pickup trucks at the best of times -- it is unsafe and is often contrary to local laws. In colder weather, it is particularly dangerous, due to the possibility of wind chill and the slippery conditions in the bed of the truck. And think about how you would feel, standing on cold metal in the cold!
Keep your pets safe and warm and healthy during the colder weather; they are part of the family!
1. Don't shave your pet in the winter. They need their coats to stay warm!
2. If your pet gets cold despite having a full coat (not uncommon), consider using a coat or sweater. Not all animals like to wear clothing, so it's important to get them used to it gradually. Put on the coat, give them a treat, and take it off. Gradually increase the length of time your pet is wearing the coat, and always pair it with something particularly yummy, to create a good association -- putting on the coat predicts a delicious treat!
3. Consider booties for your dog to protect his or her feet from snow and ice. As with coats, make sure to gradually get your dog used to wearing them.
4. Sick or older pets are particularly sensitive to the cold. Make sure they are only outside when absolutely necessary, and provide them with warm, comfy places to sleep.
5. De-icing and ice melting products can be toxic. Be sure to keep them sealed and out of the reach of your pets.
6. Vehicles can act as a refrigerator in cold weather by holding the cold inside. Be very cautious about leaving your pets in your vehicle during cold weather.
7. Pets can lose scent in snow and ice and get lost -- make sure your pet has identification, such as tags and a tattoo and/or microchip so that if he or she gets lost, it is easier for them to be reunited with you.
8. If your pet is out in the cold and starts to shiver or shake, get them back into a warm sheltered place immediately. If you suspect hypothermia, contact your vet immediately.
9. Beware of frozen lakes and ponds -- they are not always frozen all the way through, and pets can fall through the ice.
10. Arthritis is worse in cold and damp weather, so if you suspect your pet has arthritis, see your vet. Take special care to handle a pet with arthritis (or suspected arthritis) gently, avoid icy walks, provide soft and warm bedding, and give any medications that your vet prescribes.
11. Be careful of having portable heaters -- they can be a hazard. Pets can burn themselves or knock the heaters over, risking a fire.
12. Dogs should not be riding unsecured in the backs of pickup trucks at the best of times -- it is unsafe and is often contrary to local laws. In colder weather, it is particularly dangerous, due to the possibility of wind chill and the slippery conditions in the bed of the truck. And think about how you would feel, standing on cold metal in the cold!
Keep your pets safe and warm and healthy during the colder weather; they are part of the family!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Socialization - can my dog meet yours?
Socialization is about so much more than your dog getting to meet other dogs. That's part of it, but the bigger picture is that socialization is about getting your pup comfortable with all the sights, sounds, and experiences of the human world in which we expect that pup to live.
I could write a novel about socialization (just ask the folks in my puppy classes!), and I will -- just not today. I did want to pass along a great article about socialization, though. Jennifer Shryock talks about some of the specifics to consider when you are introducing your dog (especially your puppy) to other dogs. Your pup does not need to meet every single other dog they ever encounter -- this can be a recipe for disaster, in fact. Thoughtful introductions to other dogs and pups that you know (medically and behaviourally) make for good socialization.
It is critically important that all socialization experiences (whether your dog is meeting another dog, or a new person, or walking across a grate on the sidewalk, or hearing thunder for the first time, etc.) be positive. Think carefully about how you introduce your dog or pup to new experiences, and your dog will benefit enormously.
I could write a novel about socialization (just ask the folks in my puppy classes!), and I will -- just not today. I did want to pass along a great article about socialization, though. Jennifer Shryock talks about some of the specifics to consider when you are introducing your dog (especially your puppy) to other dogs. Your pup does not need to meet every single other dog they ever encounter -- this can be a recipe for disaster, in fact. Thoughtful introductions to other dogs and pups that you know (medically and behaviourally) make for good socialization.
It is critically important that all socialization experiences (whether your dog is meeting another dog, or a new person, or walking across a grate on the sidewalk, or hearing thunder for the first time, etc.) be positive. Think carefully about how you introduce your dog or pup to new experiences, and your dog will benefit enormously.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Body language and knowing your own dog
Here is a good blog post by Stacy Braslau-Schneck about body language in dogs. One point she makes that I think is worth repeating and emphasizing is that it is so important to know your own dog. That is, know how your dog normally carries his or her ears and tail, what a relaxed posture looks like, et cetera. By becoming familiar with how your dog looks when comfortable and relaxed, you can learn to read the signs that your dog gives to say that he or she is becoming apprehensive or stressed. When you see changes from that relaxed and comfortable state, you can ask yourself what is going on in the environment that might be bothering your dog, and look for ways to make him or her feel better.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Tips for Colder Weather - Part One
It's that time of year when the weather starts to get colder, the snow may be starting to fall, and our animals need us to make sure they are safe. Here is the first part of a series of posts with some tips for the colder weather that seems to have already arrived!
1. Dogs and cats belong indoors with the family, in my opinion. This is true all year, but especially during colder weather. Although they have fur coats, most dogs and cats are not able to keep themselves at a comfortable and safe temperature when left out in the elements. If it's too cold out for you to be comfortable outside without a big coat, don't leave your pets outside!
2. Pets need more calories in the winter to ward off the cold. Increase your pet's food ration accordingly, especially if your pet engages in a lot of outdoor activities.
3. Pets also need access to fresh and unfrozen water, which can be a challenge this time of year. Check your pet's water dish twice a day to make sure that the water isn't frozen. And if you must have your pets outside (which I don't recommend), a heated water dish is a must.
4. If there is deep snow (and deep is defined by your dog's size), consider shoveling out a potty area for your dog to use. Think of how awful it would be to have to potty in the snow up to your...ahem...potty parts. :)
5. Antifreeze is a chemical that tastes sweet to animals, so be sure that there are no puddles or drops of it around your driveway or garage. They are likely to ingest it, and this can be fatal.
6. The salt and other chemicals that are used on our roads can be dangerous to pets. At the very least, they can irritate the pads of their feet; at worst, they can lick it off, which can cause digestive upset (or even worse).
7. Cats and wildlife often will take refuge in and around warm engines. If you keep your vehicle outside, make sure you bang on the hood before starting it, to make sure there are no animals trying to keep warm inside.
8. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to the cold, and they might not be able to relieve themselves outdoors in the winter. Make sure your pups (or kittens) are only outside with you, so you can monitor how they are coping with the cold and the weather conditions. And if your pup doesn't tolerate the cold or the weather conditions, consider potty training indoors until spring.
9. Remember that tile and uncarpeted areas can get quite cold, as can basements. Help your pet out by providing a warm place to sleep -- blankets and beds are very cozy. Also make sure that they are out of the way of drafts.
10. If your dog has to spend time outside, make sure he or she has proper shelter from the weather and the cold. You can do this by getting a dog house that is big enough to stand up in, and that allows the dog to stretch out and turn around. You want the house to be the proper size so that the body heat of the dog will be retained in the structure, so don't get one that is too oversized. Dog houses should have a wind flap on the door and non-porous bedding such as straw to help them keep warm. But remember that dogs are social animals and are much happier in the house with the family!
I will post some further tips for the season in a couple of days. Yes, really, I will! Keep your pets safe this winter, and remember that if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pets.
1. Dogs and cats belong indoors with the family, in my opinion. This is true all year, but especially during colder weather. Although they have fur coats, most dogs and cats are not able to keep themselves at a comfortable and safe temperature when left out in the elements. If it's too cold out for you to be comfortable outside without a big coat, don't leave your pets outside!
2. Pets need more calories in the winter to ward off the cold. Increase your pet's food ration accordingly, especially if your pet engages in a lot of outdoor activities.
3. Pets also need access to fresh and unfrozen water, which can be a challenge this time of year. Check your pet's water dish twice a day to make sure that the water isn't frozen. And if you must have your pets outside (which I don't recommend), a heated water dish is a must.
4. If there is deep snow (and deep is defined by your dog's size), consider shoveling out a potty area for your dog to use. Think of how awful it would be to have to potty in the snow up to your...ahem...potty parts. :)
5. Antifreeze is a chemical that tastes sweet to animals, so be sure that there are no puddles or drops of it around your driveway or garage. They are likely to ingest it, and this can be fatal.
6. The salt and other chemicals that are used on our roads can be dangerous to pets. At the very least, they can irritate the pads of their feet; at worst, they can lick it off, which can cause digestive upset (or even worse).
7. Cats and wildlife often will take refuge in and around warm engines. If you keep your vehicle outside, make sure you bang on the hood before starting it, to make sure there are no animals trying to keep warm inside.
8. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to the cold, and they might not be able to relieve themselves outdoors in the winter. Make sure your pups (or kittens) are only outside with you, so you can monitor how they are coping with the cold and the weather conditions. And if your pup doesn't tolerate the cold or the weather conditions, consider potty training indoors until spring.
9. Remember that tile and uncarpeted areas can get quite cold, as can basements. Help your pet out by providing a warm place to sleep -- blankets and beds are very cozy. Also make sure that they are out of the way of drafts.
10. If your dog has to spend time outside, make sure he or she has proper shelter from the weather and the cold. You can do this by getting a dog house that is big enough to stand up in, and that allows the dog to stretch out and turn around. You want the house to be the proper size so that the body heat of the dog will be retained in the structure, so don't get one that is too oversized. Dog houses should have a wind flap on the door and non-porous bedding such as straw to help them keep warm. But remember that dogs are social animals and are much happier in the house with the family!
I will post some further tips for the season in a couple of days. Yes, really, I will! Keep your pets safe this winter, and remember that if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pets.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Halloween hints and tips
Halloween is a fun human holiday, but it can be scary and dangerous for pets. Here are some things to be aware of as All Hallow's Eve draws near.
Costumes are not for most pets. Some pets are real hams and enjoy being dressed up, but most animals are much happier "naked". If your pet is happy to wear a costume, make sure that it doesn't restrict normal movements, breathing or vision. Your pet should be able to do all the things he or she normally can do, such as barking, panting, meowing and drinking. Also make sure that there are no dangling bits that can be chewed off, because the last thing you want is to have to take your pet in for surgery to remove an intestinal blockage!
Another note on costumes ... some pets are nervous of people who are in costume, so remember that if your dog seems afraid or concerned, let them have the space they need.
I am a huge fan of using treats to train pets, but Halloween treats are at best unhealthy and at worst fatal. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs. Some treats may contain xylitol, which is also toxic to dogs -- it is often found in sugar-free candies.
Halloween decorations can also be problematic ... the cobwebby stuff that many people use can cause life-threatening digestive conditions if swallowed. As can corn cobs! A friend of mine lost one of her dogs after she ate a corn cob during barbeque season, so take care with them, too.
Electrical cords and candles can also pose a danger.
Your pet will likely be happier to be put away for the night -- the chaos of the doorbell ringing, costumed invaders appearing, and fireworks can all be very stressful for pets. Find a quiet contained place where your pet can enjoy a meaty bone or stuffed Kong, and perhaps consider playing the radio or the television to mask the noise of the night.
Many shelters are overwhelmed with missing pets around Halloween -- panic can cause even the most well-trained and bonded animals to flee. Make sure your pets all have identification that will make it easier for them to be reunited with you. And try to make sure that your pet is securely confined; leaving pets outside on Halloween is not a good idea! If your pet is not secured in another room, be super cautious that he or she doesn't dart outside when you're opening the door to give out treats. Having a baby gate to block the front door is a good idea, as is putting your dog on a leash and attaching it to something solid.
Remember that Halloween is a human holiday, not an animal one, and keep your pets safe this weekend! Have fun, and stay safe!
Other resources:
Here is the ASPCA's Halloween tip sheet.
Tips from the veterinary medicine section of about.com.
Costumes are not for most pets. Some pets are real hams and enjoy being dressed up, but most animals are much happier "naked". If your pet is happy to wear a costume, make sure that it doesn't restrict normal movements, breathing or vision. Your pet should be able to do all the things he or she normally can do, such as barking, panting, meowing and drinking. Also make sure that there are no dangling bits that can be chewed off, because the last thing you want is to have to take your pet in for surgery to remove an intestinal blockage!
Another note on costumes ... some pets are nervous of people who are in costume, so remember that if your dog seems afraid or concerned, let them have the space they need.
I am a huge fan of using treats to train pets, but Halloween treats are at best unhealthy and at worst fatal. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs. Some treats may contain xylitol, which is also toxic to dogs -- it is often found in sugar-free candies.
Halloween decorations can also be problematic ... the cobwebby stuff that many people use can cause life-threatening digestive conditions if swallowed. As can corn cobs! A friend of mine lost one of her dogs after she ate a corn cob during barbeque season, so take care with them, too.
Electrical cords and candles can also pose a danger.
Your pet will likely be happier to be put away for the night -- the chaos of the doorbell ringing, costumed invaders appearing, and fireworks can all be very stressful for pets. Find a quiet contained place where your pet can enjoy a meaty bone or stuffed Kong, and perhaps consider playing the radio or the television to mask the noise of the night.
Many shelters are overwhelmed with missing pets around Halloween -- panic can cause even the most well-trained and bonded animals to flee. Make sure your pets all have identification that will make it easier for them to be reunited with you. And try to make sure that your pet is securely confined; leaving pets outside on Halloween is not a good idea! If your pet is not secured in another room, be super cautious that he or she doesn't dart outside when you're opening the door to give out treats. Having a baby gate to block the front door is a good idea, as is putting your dog on a leash and attaching it to something solid.
Remember that Halloween is a human holiday, not an animal one, and keep your pets safe this weekend! Have fun, and stay safe!
Other resources:
Here is the ASPCA's Halloween tip sheet.
Tips from the veterinary medicine section of about.com.
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