A potpourri of dogs and pets articles, training tips, oddities and miscellaneous pet supplies items of interest to all dog and pet owners.
Anonymity Won't Bring Your Lost Dog Home
Ever read those lost dogs ads in the newspaper classifieds? They frequently indicate the dog's breed, size, coloration, markings and name; even give the color of the collar, if one was being worn. Sadly, though, too often that collar is barren of information without a suitable I.D. tag attached. Then, whoever finds the lost dog has at least two strikes against ever returning him home. Of course, an owner may trust to luck (about the same odds as the lottery) that a Good Samaritan will scrutinize all the classifieds and local veterinarian bulletin boards in his best attempt to get Rover home.
Dogs Can’t Always Find Their Way Home
Don't bet on it though. Your dog is pretty unlikely to find his own way home, unless he just never wandered very far, and you can't be sure he'll always get lost near home either. It's not unusual for a dog to escape confinement when traveling with his family or being shipped to a distant destination. That can really compound the problem if he's lacking I.D.
Dog’s Basic Information Needed On I.D.
So, it's glaringly obvious that your pooch's collar should bear a tag containing all the pertinent information needed to get him back to you, quickly and safely. And, that he wears that collar routinely. A basic I.D. tag will have the dog's name, your phone number and address, and the word REWARD on it. That last can be a life-saver, too! Some unscrupulous individuals do pick up strays and lost dogs and deliver them to research laboratories for a fee. But seeing REWARD on the tag may well give them second thoughts, namely that a pet owner is more likely to offer much more money than a laboratory.
Consider Beyond Basic Info Too
Going beyond the basic tag is a good idea to consider, as well. For instance,
a tag that includes various supplementary information. Say, your vet's phone
number and a neighbor's in case you're away and can't be reached immediately.
Several such I.D. tags are marketed at many pet supplies outlets and on line..
Don't let too much more time go by to get your dog properly I.D.'d.
"Fine Pet ID Tags" offers custom engraved Pet ID Tags for Lovely Pets.
An AKC First
Do you know what was the first breed registered in the Stud Book of the American Kennel Club? Well, English setter fanciers have that bragging right. It was an English setter named Adonis, entered in 1878.
K9 Products “His Own Space”
Every puppy needs some personal space, a place to call his own, where he can safely escape the stress and rigors of a busy, or even chaotic, household. A soft rug or comfy mat may be fine for sleeping, in a calm environment. But a crate is a far better choice to ensure his continuing successful training and offer him security and sanctuary whenever he wishes. A crate then soon takes on the role and solitude of a snug, comfortable den.
Which Crate Is Best?
Several crate options exist for the choosing. Which kind’s best for you, and of course for your dog, boils down pretty much to personal preference. You might choose one of strong plastic construction, similar to those many airlines provide for transporting dogs These are the sturdiest variety. But equally sturdy, with the advantage of lightweight, are the aluminum type. Finally, and lightest of all, is the open wire crate, combining handy portability with superior ventilation in hot weather.
Crate Size Does Matter
A note of special importance, no matter which kind of crate you select: bear in mind that it should be big enough to comfortably house your pup at full maturity.
What's In A Name?
Some folks show a marked indifference when choosing their dog’s name. Seems like any old moniker will serve the purpose. King, Queenie, Lassie, Rover, any such as long as it's gender specific will do. The most casual example yet heard of was simply "Dog." How imaginative! How caring!
Yet, what your dog’s name is shows a lot about you as well as about how you regard him. It can provide a solid clue about the kind of relationship you intend and want to have with him. Some names convey a happy-go-lucky attitude, both in dog and owner. Others, a stiffer, more formal relationship. People are inclined to assess a dog and react to it, based on the name you've given him. Tell someone, jokingly, your dog's name is "Killer," and watch them instinctively recoil, at least momentarily, till your sense of humor (perverse or not) dawns on them.
Among the most popular dog names today: Max, Maxwell, Sam, Samantha, Lady, Maggie, Buddy, Shasta, Holly, Bear and Brandy. What's your favorite dog name?
Dog Boots and Coat Protect Dogs>
Are you a sissy owner who makes your best pal a sissy, too, when you don him with a coat and/or boots during the winter? Despite what some people may think, such apparel is actually the hallmark of a wise, caring owner and a healthy dog. For indoor dogs, coats help balance indoor-outdoor temperatures and help protect against cold-weather ailments. Boots can help city dogs avoid pads irritation from sand, salt and chemicals used to de-ice streets and sidewalks. They also prevent dogs from tracking snow and chemical residue into the house or apartment.
Who Says Dogs Can’t Fly?
Dogs traveling by air are subject to various restrictions and legal regulations formulated by The United States Department of Agriculture along with the International Air Transport Association. Additionally, the airlines themselves also have varying regulations; which means it's always wise to contact your chosen airline well ahead of your planned shipping date to review their individual procedures and requirements.
Responsible airline carriers usually have written rules for canine travel. Such guidelines provide verification of the airline's concern over the importance of safely transporting dogs and other animals. Medium-to-large dogs must be crated and travel in the cargo section. Should you be taking your pooch on vacation with you, arranging to have him shipped on your particular non-stop flight will save time and inconvenience at your final destination. If you own a small dog, it's often possible to crate it and have it taken with you right on board the plane. No matter what airline you choose, though, it's important to familiarize yourself with its regulations well in advance.
Separation Anxiety...Of A Sort
Raw egg yokes are good for your dog’s coat, no doubt about it. But since dogs cannot digest egg whites,unless you remove them, you’re doing more harm than good. Separate the whites from the yokes, and cook them to preserve biotin, a key vitamin for good health.
Lemon Law
Why isn’t there a Lemon Law to help protect puppy and dog buyers from fraud perpetrated by unscrupulous puppy mills and shady breeders? Far too common are the tales told by folks who have been victimized in dealings with such lowlife individuals.Oh sure, when a buyer complains about a misrepresented puppy, sometimes the seller offers to exchange the pup for another from an upcoming litter, knowing full well that the buyer will become too attached to the puppy to give it up.Thus, stalling this way works well for the conniving breeder. A Lemon Law with teeth, making mandatory money back guaranteed for the buyer, while still allowing him to keep the puppy would go far toward resolving the problem.