luni, 20 iunie 2011

Tips On Clipping Your Dog's Toe Nails

Regular nail trimming is important to your dog's health and well-being. Use nail clippers designed for your dog's nail. Most dogs do not like their claws trimmed while other dogs will sit calmly while you trim. Clipping nails should be started when dogs are very young. 
You will need to get the dog accustomed to you holding their paw and applying a little pressure. Use special treats as rewards for their cooperation. These treats should be special and not used at any other time except for nail clipping. A soft voice should also be used to let the dog know you mean no harm.
Supplies you should have ready before starting the nail clipping. There are a variety of nail clippers available on the market. Visit your pet store and see which one feels best in your hand. With the guillotine type clipper the nail goes through the opening for the nail to be clipped. 
You should also have available a small file for those ragged edges. If your dog will not let you file his nails after clipping and he is an outside dog he will smooth the nail naturally. Another helpful item is a styptic pen that can be used if there is a small amount of bleeding.
After your dog has become accustom to the pressure against his paw you should try just clipping the tips of a few nails. Take as much time as needed to gain your dog's trust. 

Then holding the paw in your hand use your thumb to press each digit you are working with. The nail should be in full view with no obstructions even the hair around the nail. Inspect the top and bottom of each nail. White nails you can identify the quick where the blood vessels are located much easier than with black nails. Cutting the tips off will cause the quick to recede a little after each clipping. 

Cutting the tips of black nails is especially important if you are not able to identify the quick. Claws on the hind feet are often shorter and require less frequent trimming than those on the front feet. Don't forget the dew claws on the inside of the foot if your dog has not had those removed. Dew claws do not touch the ground so they are not worn down as the dog walks.

When using the guillotine trimmers place the nail through the stationary ring in trimmer cutting nail top to bottom or bottom to top. The blade should always be facing you to see how much nail you are cutting. You will be less likely to cut the quick. Do not cut nail side to side this may cause nail to splinter. Several small cuts should be used to prevent cutting the quick. Should you make the nail bleed use the styptic pen until you get the bleeding stopped. If the bleeding continues call your veterinarian.
Nail clipping regularly is important and will keep your dog healthy and happy. Should you feel uncomfortable clipping the nails contact your veterinarian or a good groomer.

What Do You Really Know About Your Dog's Sleeping Behaviors?

There is something about watching your dog sleep that is comforting and sometimes even comical. Do you know, several of your dog's sleep behaviors are similar to ours and others are inherent?
The average dog sleeps 12 - 13 hours per day. It may not seem that way, but puppies snooze even longer! That is almost half their life! Dogs are skillful at catching a few winks whenever they can. That form of napping is similar to Stage 1 sleep, where they are sleeping, but just barely.
Sleep is a vital part of the health, physical and emotional well-being of your dog's life. It is during sleep that puppies grow, wounds heal and energy is conserved and stored for what lies ahead.
Companion dogs kept indoors, sleep longer and deeper than dogs kept outdoors and working dogs. Dogs kept outdoors and working dogs try to slip in an extra nap here or there, but rarely relax enough to reach a healthy, deep, restful sleep.
Do Dogs Dream?
It appears dogs follow similar stages of sleep as humans. Stage 1, is barely sleeping. This is where most outdoor dogs, wild dogs and working dogs sleep. At Stage 2, the animal's blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and body temperatures gradually lower. Stage 3 is a transitional state between light and deep sleep. Stage 4 is the slow wave stage where usually the dog is now oblivious to their surroundings. If awakened suddenly, they often appear confused. Stag 5 is where the fun begins! This is the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase of sleep. Here, their body relaxes, but their brain remains active. At this stage, your dog's eyes roll under the lids and they slowly ease into those dreams we find so amusing. They whimper, growl, make lapping and eating sounds and motions, whine, bark, and/or appear to be chasing something!
Most indoor dogs spend up to 12% of their sleeping time in REM. Puppies spend a greater percentage of time in REM. During this stage, it is thought puppies process and merge what they are learning every day, into behaviors they will follow.
Interestingly, smaller dogs tend to dream more than their larger cousins.
Shaking during sleep can be perfectly normal for the average dog. Dogs that have suffered trauma and puppies removed from their mom too soon, may also shake in their sleep. Shaking could also be an indicator of health problems in dogs, such as hypothyroidism, pain, chills, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
If your dog is shaking while sleeping, calmly call their name and gently pet or touch them, to reassure them that everything is OK. Do not shake them awake! It is not known, if dogs have nightmares, but given the fact many rescues and dogs that have suffered severe physical and emotional trauma shake in their sleep, a little assurance goes a long way.
Favored Positions of a Sleeping Dog
The sleeping position of your dog tells you a lot about him or her. Some like to sleep on their stomachs, almost like in a "down" position. This allows them to jump up at the slightest perceived threat or fact they may be missing out on what you are doing.
Others prefer sleeping on their side. This is a restful position. Your dog is comfortable with their surroundings.
Then we have the "Superdog" sleeper. They choose sleeping stretched out, on their stomachs. They look like they are flying. They are in a restful sleep, but ready to go as soon as they hear you move!
The most inherent position for sleeping is curling up. You will see this as a favorite sleeping position of dogs kept outdoors. You will find them curled up into a ball, with their paws under their body and their tail wrapped around their face. It is the least vulnerable and least restful position for sleep. They are conserving body heat, they protecting limbs, face, throat and vital organs. This position gives them the advantage to be on their feet immediately. The dog's muscles are tense and ready to spring into action, if need be. Dogs that sleep in this position rarely relax enough to drift into the REM stage.
Curling is the normal sleeping position for wild dogs and wolves packing together. It offers a sleeping position for awareness upon awakening as their senses are heightened to movements, sounds and scents. They conserve space in the den; protect their offspring and share body heat. You will notice even most domesticated puppies inherently curl up together or around their mother.
Finally, we have what looks the "dead roach" position. There are dogs that favor sleeping on their backs; with their legs in the air...looking just like a dead cockroach! This is the position found only in a very secure and confident indoor pet. Sleeping on their back is the most vulnerable position for a dog to sleep. It is thought to be the most comfortable and most restful position. Plus, it's your dog's way of cooling down quickly. Indoor dogs that have expended lots of energy and/or are over-heated will sleep on their backs.
The sleeping on their back position has not been observed as behavior exhibited by dogs or wolves in the wild. Dogs kept outdoors will not sleep in this position either. This position sends a message of vulnerability and submission.
It should be noted; dogs sleeping on their backs with their paws "protecting" their chest are indicating they prefer not to be bothered. Use caution when suddenly awakening any dog sleeping in this position!
Now that you know more about what goes on when your dog sleeps, you will have some insight about their confidence and sense of well being. In addition, it will give you a clue of why your dog behaves the way it does, when they are awake.
Bottom line: Comfort equals healthier, more and deeper sleep. Whatever sleeping position your dog prefers, make sure their sleeping accommodations are safe and comfortable. A dog that is well rested is generally healthier and happier.

Natural Remedies For Constipated Dogs

Natural remedies for constipated dogs are not only safe and without side effects, for the greater they are also effective. Homeopathic remedies, in particular, can be rapid in their action.
But first, why do you need to take action? Let's examine some of the common scenarios with constipation and how they can affect your dog. 
  • Probably the first is pain on passing a stool. Not only is this undesirable in itself, it may compound the problem, as your dog will become reluctant to stool, delaying the inevitable pain.
  • Constipation can occur without any pain at all, but holding on to all that waste is going to make for trouble in the future. A constipated dog will inevitably become more sluggish and more unhealthy as time moves on.
  • Sometimes a stool will partially extrude then recedes back in.
  • If elimination is not complete, your dog will keep trying - trying for both of you on a walk.
  • Constipation can alternate with diarrhoea which creates difficulty keeping the dog and the environment clean.
These differences need to be considered when choosing the most appropriate remedy that is likely to help your dog. How you apply this will depend on the different modalities of natural health. For example, personal differences are very important in homeopathy, but less important in, say herbs.
But this is not the end of the story. You also need to discover what the cause was, as this may need to be treated before the constipation can be permanently resolved. It isn't natural to be constipated, despite it being common.
Some common causes can be: 
  • after surgery or after drugs
  • during pregnancy
  • during travelling which unsettles routine
  • after a frightening experience
Once the cause has been elicited, then the appropriate natural remedy can be selected.
But perhaps the most common cause is diet. Most people feel that commercial pet food is the healthiest food for their dog, because the packets, the advertising, even the veterinarians tell you this is so. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
Most commercial pet food is made for the profit of the manufacturer. Whilst this is a worthy outcome, it isn't if the product falls short of the claims. And, sadly, perhaps the majority do.
When a switch is made from commercial dog food to a quality, natural and species specific food, most cases of constipation simply disappear. And preparing such food is easy once you know how. The difficult part comes with a change of mindset.
This means the number one natural remedy for constipation is diet.

Why Do Some Dogs Eat Grass And Throw Up?

If there is one behavior which may come as a surprise to dog owners, especially the first-timers, it would be the question "Why does my dog eat grass and then throw up after?" This is a question which veterinarians often get asked and yet, the answer remains to be a mystery to all of them. Indeed, fiber is not a common thing for dogs and grass definitely does not go well with their digestive tract. Yet, this continues to be a habit for most dogs such as your beloved Fido.
Tummyache 
One very common answer when asked about this question is gastric problems. Many believe that eating grass is one way in which dogs get to relieve themselves from gastric problems as this helps them vomit. Vomiting thus helps them get relieved of any toxic substance or irritant which they may have ingested. However, as one vet has put it, is the vomiting induced by the grass or does the grass induce the vomit

Roughage 
One other possible reason why dogs feel the need to eat grass is the need for roughage which dog food and meats cannot normally provide. Even in the wild, dog relatives such as wolves and foxes normally get to ingest the roughage which their pray have induced. As this scenario is not possible in a normal household, your loyal little pet may therefore hunt for the source somewhere else-that somewhere being your lawn.

Checking out their territory 
It's a known fact that dogs do have the habit of marking their territory. In the same manner, some say that dogs eat grass in order to check out their territory for any signs of invasion. As gross as this may seem, dogs do like owning their own spot and they do mind an invasion of territorial space.

Worms 
This reason seems pretty similar to "dogs eating grass because of a tummy ache." However, this time, worms seem to be the culprit. This could be true except that there are still some pets which get worms despite their grass-eating habit. Other than that, dogs do need to get de-wormed on a regular basis so this reason ends up to be quite questionable.

A matter of taste 
While all these reasons seem to be quite scientific, we also have to be consider the fact that dogs do have their personal tastes. That's the reason why dog food comes in different flavors, right So maybe they should come out with grass-flavored dog food as grass-eating is a habit developed by your doggy's palate Maybe some dogs were meant to be vegetarian

Whatever plausible excuse or reason one can come up with, there are indeed some dogs who just like to eat grass for no apparent reason. While there is no immediate danger or threat to this behavior, it would be safe to make sure that the grass which he eats is free from any fertilizer or pesticide which he may ingest. With your dog eating grass from your lawn, at least you won't have to worry so much about mowing it.

How To Read What Your Dog Is Saying

Dogs are certainly one of the most popular pets in the planet. Who wouldn't fall in love with a dog? They are known for their loyalty and their ability to have fun. Whereas cats will lie down by your feet and have themselves scratched to the point of sleeping, dogs will engage you with their different antics and games. However, in order to have a good and meaningful relationship with your pet doggy, it is important that you are able to communicate with him and understand much of his behavior. After all, dogs, just like humans, have their own individual personalities.
Know His Bark
Just as we humans use different tones when speaking to other people, so do dogs have different barks. That is why it is important for you, as a dog owner, to be familiar with your dog's different barks. There are barks that will indicate playfulness, some that will indicate his willingness to do an activity such as taking a walk, and yet, there is that specific bark that will indicate that he is worried about some imminent danger lurking nearby.
Check out the tail and the ears
It is a known fact that in order to see just how friendly your dog is at the moment, all you need to do is observe his tail. A wagging tail usually indicates playfulness or a friendly attitude. However, if the tail is tucked and a bit rigid, you should be a bit more cautious since this may indicate that he is a bit on the worried side of things. If the tail us upright stiff or with a bit of a quiver, then chances are that he is in a highly aggressive mood and that he is willing to attack and defend hist territory at any given time.
The ears also serve as an indication of what your dog is trying to say. With a dog's ears of but not placed forward and stiff, this often means that your dog is in a very relaxed state. However, just as we humans frown at something when we get mad or even disagree, so do your dogs ears. When a dog's ears start stiffening and going upright, then chances are that your dog is in a very uncomfortable and worried state.
Sniffing out of curiosity
When a dog is uncertain about something he encounters, he usually stretches out his neck and starts to sniff. This is not a sign of fear but rather of uncertainty as your dog starts to observe and process the thing that he sees nearby. Just as we try to assess situations which we are uncertain of, so does your dog.
There are many body languages which are associated with a dog's behavior. However, probably the best way to really know your dog is to observe his mannerisms as he goes through his daily routines. Eventually, you and he would have established a comfortable way of communicating which could lead to a very meaningful and long-lasting relationship.

Why Is My Dog Aggressive Towards Other Dogs?

One of the more complex and hard to understand behavior of dogs is their tendency to be aggressive even to their own kind. Sometimes, it may even come to a point where the aggressive behavior can be quite hard to control. There may be many factors which can lead to such a problem. In fact, this aggressive tendency may even show at a very early age when your dog is still in his puppy years. Think of it as the start of the "terrible twos". What could be the possible reasons behind Fido turning into a monster
Medical Reasons
One of the reasons which may be behind your doggy's rough behavior is an underlying medical problem. Chemical imbalances, for one, can be largely to blame. Other medical reasons may be as follows:
. Hypothyroidism or a less active thyroid gland 
. Distemper 
. Low blood sugar 
. Epilepsy 
. Presence of a brain tumour 
. Head trauma

It's Just The Breed
Clearly, there are some breeds that behave more aggressively as compared to others. Some are just born with that kind of temperament. Most of them have a protective tendency, hence the aggressive behavior. Examples of these kinds of breeds are the Doberman, Rottweiller and Akita.
The Pack Attitude
Dogs, by nature, recognize that they are part of pack. Unfortunately, being part of a pack also means that someone has to be the leader or the alpha-male. It is this instinct which may somehow lead into a dog being aggressive towards another. This is most especially if you have two or more dogs of the same age and sex. Oftentimes, this will involve the need of one dog to be the head of the group.
Along with the need to be a leader comes the need to protect one's territory. Dogs do not appreciate it really if someone invades their space. Another dog who happens to be a stranger to him can really rub him the wrong way thus leading to another problem when it comes to aggression.
Poor Socialization Skills
Just as there is a need to teach a child socialization skills, so is there to expose a dog to different kinds of environment and other dogs as well. This is usually best when a dog is still at a young age wherein he can still be developed. The best time would probably be around 3 to 14 years of age when the dog has his senses fully developed and he is able to get to see more of his surroundings.
Past experiences
Dogs do have memory. When a dog, especially during the early years, encounters a bad experience from another dog, he may start to develop certain fears which may lead to aggressive behavior.
Whatever the reasons are, especially if they are not medical in nature, it is important to take note that this behavior should be corrected early on and not tolerated. As has been often said, it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks.

Q and A's for a Dog-Friendly Vacation

Going on holidays? Good news, you don't have to leave your dog at home. More and more hotels are welcoming four-legged guests and you can even choose from a wide variety of canine-centered vacation adventures. This article answers some of your questions about taking your dog on vacation with you.
How do I find pet-friendly hotels?
All major chains have select properties that allow you to bring your dog or cat, including:
  • Hilton Hotels
  • Best Western
  • Comfort Inn
  • Quality Inn
  • Econolodge
  • Marriott
  • Holiday Inn
  • Venture Inn
  • Motel 6
  • ....and many others.
Just go to the chain's main webpage and look for "pet friendly hotels;" you'll see which locations offer pet accommodations. Keep in mind, though, not all hotels in a chain have the same policies, so be sure and check carefully. And it's always worth getting confirmation in writing that your dog will be accepted.
Is there an extra cost to bring your dog to a hotel or motel?
Yes; nearly all hotels will ask you for an additional fee, ranging from $20 to $50 per stay, not per night. This charge is usually for extra clean up after you and your pet leave, including shampooing the carpet.
What if my dog barks a lot?
Most hotels reserve the right to "remove your dog from the room" if you leave him alone for long and he barks, disturbing other guests.
So if you're not comfortable leaving your dog alone in the hotel room while you're out exploring or enjoying your vacation, what to do? You could find a local doggie daycare, and check your pet in for the day or even book a grooming session locally.
How do I prepare for a long car trip with the dog?
First, ensure your dog is stowed securely in the vehicle; there are four ways to keep him from being a dangerous projectile in your car should you have an accident or even a sudden stop:
  • get a special car harness for dogs - they're used in conjunction with your car's seatbelt system to keep your pet safe and secure
  • if you have a sport utility type vehicle, you can buy a special barrier to keep him in the cargo area. However, this doesn't keep your dog really securely protected in case of an accident.
  • use a portable dog crate in your vehicle, and attach it with your seatbelt system
  • try one of the new booster seats for small dogs, with built-in seat belt or harness restraint
What should I pack for a car trip with my dog?
Lots of food and water of course. And don't forget the bowls! You'll also want to pack:
  • an extra leash
  • a few treats
  • any medical information, your vet's name and number
  • your dog's license and microchip info
  • a small doggie first aid kit: gauze, antibiotic ointment, rubbing alcohol
  • an old towel - in case you need to wrap him up
  • a clean up kit - paper towels, disinfectant spray, plastic bags and twist ties... and wet wipes for you
  • poop and scoop bags
My dog gets car-sick. What can I do?
There are some very good motion sickness medications available for your pet. Some are prescription based and you'll need to see your veterinarian. Others are all-natural or homeopathic solutions to nausea.
If your dog does tend to get sick in the car, make his pre-travel meal very light, and take plenty of rest stops.
In conclusion, with some extra planning you'll find that it's really lots of fun for everyone when you bring your dog on vacation!

What to Do When You Think Your Dog Is Sick

If your dog has been looking a little bit under the weather, it's sometimes tricky to figure out whether you need to seek immediate medical attention, or whether you can wait and see. If your dog displays any of these symptoms, then you will need to take him or her to the vet immediately: 
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal distress
  • Diarrhea
  • Seizures
  • Excessive drooling or saliva production
  • Gagging or dry heaving
  • Coughing
  • Paralysis or lameness
  • Coma or unconsciousness
  • Unusual aggressiveness towards people or animals
  • Delirium or confusion (knocking into furniture or objects)
  • Visible injuries (swelling, broken bones, open wounds)
All of these symptoms indicate that there could be a very serious medical condition, that will need professional treatment. They may also indicate that your dog has been physically injured, or poisoned, and again, immediate, professional care is imperative.
Pay Attention
A good rule of thumb, for all pet owners, is to pay attention to your dogs' regular behaviour. You'll soon learn what is normal for your dog, and when something out of the ordinary is going on, you'll be able to pick it up quickly.
Since speed is often of the essence when injuries or illnesses are present in dogs, it's important that you act quickly, and knowing what to look for is important.
If You Choose to Wait
If you decide that your dog doesn't look that sick, or if he or she is acting strange, but there are no visible signs of injury or illness, you might decide to wait and see whether he or she is simply under the weather. Or maybe you are unable to take immediate action. 
  • If that is the case, then you will want to follow these guidelines:
  • Seperate your dog from other pets and animals.
  • Keep him or her in a quiet, isolated place.
  • Monitor your dog's condition regularly - every half hour to an hour is best.
  • Ensure that your dog has lots of clean water, but don't try to force food on him or her if he or she is not hungry.
If your dog's condition does not worsen, then whatever it is that is affecting him or her may not be too serious. However, if you choose to follow these directions, and you notice that your dog's condition is deteriorating, then you will still need to seek the care and advice of a veterinarian.
So if you think your dog is sick, your decision on what to do should be based entirely on your dog's condition, and whatever you do, it should be done immediately after your suspicions are aroused.

Increase Your Small Dog Training Knowledge

Dogs are one of the most intelligent creatures and can learn new things fast, especially if they are trained properly. Today we are going to talk about small dog training. It is quite different than training large breed dogs. Because small dog breeds don't need to be trained for hunting or for guarding your house from strangers. 
Their primary role is to serve as companion to you, as a friend. Plus such dogs are usually kept inside the house for most of the time, so small dog training does have some major differences. So, how to train a small dog? Read on, and learn.
Small dog training is especially effective when a dog is still a puppy. Let's say you just got one puppy. Bring him home and let him roam around freely. During first few weeks puppy will get accustomed with environment. It's important to leave him at home as much as possible, taking him outside only for doing "toilet training". That way the dog will get used to live in a house, and will not be tempted to run outside for no reason.
If your dog will run outside each time when he needs to pee, you will need to reward him for doing this, with something positive. If he doesn't live your house for doing it, you will need to show him the right way. This area isn't any different for small dog training.
Another important thing in small dog training is teething. In order to prevent this bad habit you will need to introduce your dog to a dog "bone toy". If the dog is still a puppy it's very likely that he will pay no attention at your furniture or shoes later, when he grows older. Just make sure you will get the new toys, when old ones are close to being broken.
What's actually fairly overlooked, that small dogs can be still dangerous. It's very important to include stopping commands like "down" or "off" in your small dog training. So if your dog tries to attack somebody (could be anyone new at your house), interrupt him immediately and don't forget to use those stopping commands. Sooner or later your dog will recognize those commands and obey.
Your small dog training repertoire should include most basic commands already when your dog is still a puppy. Like "sit", "drop" and "come". These will be beneficial on early stage because puppies like to pick everything lying on the floor in your house. 
Just repeat the command and motion (which goes along with command) over and over, until your dog gets it. Don't jump from one command to another without completely learning it first, this will ensure that your puppy will understand the whole process and action that he needs to take in order to get a treat (always treat your dog for listening to you).
So that would be tiny part of small dog training. This topic does require a lot of knowledge, so it's highly recommended to obtain some quality material on training your puppies.
What if you just can't train your little dog?
I know how hard it can be trying to teach a dog, if you don't really know what you are doing. But if you want to really make your small dog behave well in under any circumstances, you'll need to learn a single method that works amazingly well.

Raw Dog Food Recipes: Choose the Right One

Raw dog food recipes can help you a great deal to value your dog's loyalty. A dog is more than a pet; he/she is regarded as the most loyal of all the animals which is the reason why he/she is crowned as the man's best friend. But seldom are they treated like one. Most of us love our dog beyond any extent; we get them fancy sweaters for the winters, shiny collars and also some very nice and popular dog food. But is that enough and apt to keep them fit and healthy. 
The company manufactured food may look all colorful and sophisticated but we live in the world of lies and deceits. The companies pay a lot of money to some very intelligent people to try and devise new ways to fool you. The company think tanks are paid a fortune to decide the color of the packaged dog, what kind of pictures would it contain, ties up with veterinarians to give rave reviews about the products and many other things. All in all, they try their level best to raise the profit chart. The actual picture is somewhat different though. The manufactured food affects the dog's health in a lot of bad ways.
There are a lot of reasons why you should think of making raw food at home for your dog with the help some recipes. Some of them are as under
  1. Preparation technique: The cook and pack technique which is employed quite often reduces the amount of nutrients in the dog food. The only purpose which is solved by such a food is to fill your dog's stomach so that he/she doesn't feel hungry; the health standards however remain the same.
  2. Addition of Fillers: The kind of fillers includes wheat and grain products. This again has really bad effects on the health of the pet as a lot of dogs are allergic to such products. Once on a packed food diet the dog develops symptoms like hot spots, itchy skin bad breath etc.
  3. Preservatives: Humans don't do pretty well with preservatives; the same is the case with dogs. The food manufacturers use a lot of preservatives for their products which in turn makes it a bad option to feed to dogs.
The list goes on and on. But as with every problem, there is a solution to this one as well, raw dog food. This is usually prepared with chicken, pork, eggs, fish etc. With the help of some raw dog food recipes, you can also make your own food for your dog at home. 
The kind of products which you would need can be found at any nearby grocery or butcher shop. This would also be a cheaper option as compared to the company manufactured dog food. However, if you think you don't have the time to make raw dog food at home, you can always go for frozen raw dog food, pre made raw dog food etc.

Dogs Flying the Friendly Skies

Most pet owners are not fond of sticking their beloved companion in a crate to be stowed away in the cargo hold of the plane. Not only is this an uncomfortable place to fly, pet parents have to wonder how their animal is being handled; also if an airline can lose luggage, who is to say they could not lose your pet? Traveling this way with a dog that is too big to fit under the seat is a hassle for many dog lovers, including the ones who started Pet Airways.
Traveling with their rat terrier Zoe was so challenging that her owners decided to start this airline just for pets! No longer is a beloved dog or cat stored away in the cargo hold of a jet liner, now they can fly in their very own airplane. You and your pet could benefit from this type of service. It must be said that currently flights are limited to specific destinations.
What You Can Expect
If you live in or near a city that Pet Airways services and your destination fits in their itinerary here is what you can expect. You must bring your pet to the lounge at least two hours before the scheduled flight time. This gives the airline time to prepare and get everyone checked in for flight. During your dog's travels with this airline, potty breaks will be taken very seriously. Where your dog might have to hold their bladder or colon for many hours on a traditional flight, at Pet Airways this is not the case. Your pet will be carefully attended to during the flight; an attendant comes around to check on them every 15 minutes. Upon landing, your dog will be given another potty break by the attendants and then escorted to the pet lounge for pick up.
Necessity
Before your dog can fly the friendly skies they must have a check up, backed by a health certificate and current rabies vaccination. It is also required that your dog have a clean stool check within fourteen days before the scheduled flight. Finally, your pet's height is very important; when you book a flight you will be asked to give an accurate height. This needs to be exact, if your dog is taller than stated they will not be allowed on the plane.
Conclusion
While this airline will not service all dog owners in the country, it is a good alternative for those who can access the service. Flights will be much more comfortable for your dog and you will have the peace of mind that they will not be lost or mishandled in the baggage area! For some people vacationing just got a whole lot easier.

Finding Food That's Good for Your Dog

Just imagine the wagging tail that greets you once you step inside the house. You wouldn't dare feed him with just anything, would you? However, quality nutrition for your loyal companion is usually expensive. You would even hear of stories about pet owners selling their pets or having them adopted, because they couldn't afford the costs of keeping them anymore.
But, these days, you can purchase from online pet stores good brands that are priced cheap like Eukanuba dog food, Hills Science Diet and Royal Canin. So, you should not despair anymore. What you should think about first is what would be good for your canine companion.
First of all, they are not built for vegetarian diets. You should, therefore, feed your pet high-quality, animal-based proteins. When buying their treats and eats, you should always read the label. Usually, the first ingredient on the list is what consists most of the product. Your pet does not require a lot of carbohydrates, so you should minimize his intake of flour, wheat or corn. Whether his meal that you are buying is dry or canned, you should compare which ingredients are prioritized in the label. Of course, other things that you should check on the label are the complete vitamins and minerals your pet needs.
You should feed your canine according to life stages. A puppy should be given a puppy diet, while adult ones should get adult nutrients. Puppies need calories and vitamins more than adult canines. The adults should have less calories and energy, but more vitamins.
Sometimes special canine cases require special diet prescribed by veterinarians. Obese dogs, for instance, still need to eat, but with reduced calories. For sick dogs, you need to be more delicate in feeding. Some dogs may require a very specific diet like lamb and rice only. Others might need to have much less protein. You must consult a veterinarian about your pet's diet if you suspect or know that he has any illness.
In addition to this, canines should also be fed according to their breed. A canine's breed defines his size and function, among others. Similar to human beings, their nutritional requirements differ according to the shape of their body and their natural activities. For example, if your pet is in the medium-sized working category, he does not have the same diet needs as those of a small toy canine.
If you are a canine lover, you would be glad to know that pet nutrition companies have introduced diets that fulfill all these various requirements. You also don't need to look far for canine diets that are effective but affordable. Online pet stores today offer you recommended products like Royal Canin and Eukanuba dog food at cheap prices.

Doggy Boot Camp

So you feel like you and your dog are a little out of shape? Have you ever considered attending a doggy boot camp? Now it is safe to say that not all doggy boot camps are the same, some only focus on the dog and their obedience training, but a good number of camps are cropping up around the country that work both you and your dog. You can get more physically fit while your dog learns some obedience and burns off some calories that tend to come with the dog treats you feed your dog.
Attending Camp
In California a new concept is taking hold, you and your pet come to an exercise/ obedience training session in the park. These training camps promote the idea of your dog as your training partner. This is a great program for people of all ages and fitness levels, as the instruction will allow you to progress somewhat at your own pace.
In order to attend a training session like this your dog should be at least four months old and able to understand some basic commands. The details will differ but with the program in California, the team offers one-hour training for your dog before the regular classes begin. Your dog will also need some basic exercise equipment: a leash, training collar, mat and water. You will also need some equipment which can include free weights, mat, towel, water and of course your dog!
Do it yourself
If you do not live near one of the doggy boot camp exercise programs, you can always start your own routine. It does not have to be anything fancy just some basic exercises you can do with your dog to get fit and feel great. Walking, running, swimming and even biking are all potentially good exercise routines that you can do with your dog, though the swimming will definitely be breed specific. For instance, you will not have much luck getting a Great Pyrenees into the pool but a Labrador will beat you in!
Speaking of breeds it is important that you realize that not all breeds are cut out to be work out partners, at least not on a heavy scale. Short snouted varieties will struggle with breathing during strenuous activities so if you have a Chinese pug or other small-nosed canine you might want to keep the exercise to a minimum.
Conclusion
Dogs are great companions and most of the time they will be interested in anything you are doing. Whether you are hiking the backcountry, swimming in the pool or walking around the neighborhood your dog will enjoy it immensely. Be sure and check with your vet before starting a sudden exercise program, and remember always keep your dog on a leash!

Should You Give Green Lipped Mussel Dog Food to Your Dog?

If you have a dog that's suffering from the painful effects arthritis, you may have heard of green lipped mussel extract as an alternative form of treatment to harsh commercial drugs. You may have even discovered green lipped mussel dog food, which has the extract added to it.
Will it really help your dog though, or is it a marketing gimmick? And if so, what brand of dog food is best?
The choice can be confusing because there are many different products on the market. They fall into two main categories: dry treats for dogs that are formulated with mussel extract, or a blend of mussel extract and other ingredients targeting arthritis, and dry dog food formulated with mussel extract or a mussel extract blend. Popular brands include Pedigree Joint Care, Royal Canin Mobility Support, and GREENIES JointCare Canine Treats.
Fortunately, there have been a number of scientific studies on the use of mussel extract to cure arthritis in dogs. In one study (Improvement of Arthritis Signs in Dogs Fed Green Lipped Mussel. Tiffany Linn Bierer and Linh M. Bui) the supplement was actually given to dogs in three different ways: in formulated dry treats, in formulated dry food, and sprinkled in pure powder form over the dogs' standard food.
According to the results, the simple sprinkling of mussel powder over the dogs' standard food proved to be most effective in reducing their symptoms. A total of 83% of dogs treated this way showed improvement. This contrasted with around 50% of dogs that were fed dog food formulated with the extract.
This indicates that there's really no need to buy expensive formulated food for your dog. Instead, a quality green lipped mussel powder will do a better job of helping your dog feel better.
The recommended dosage, based on the clinical trials and dog owners' first hand experiences, is 500 mg (usually one capsule) of powder a day. This is for a medium sized dog such as a Labrador. After a month or so, when the dog has shown improvement, it's possible to decrease the dosage to around 350 mg a day.
Of course, it's extremely important to choose the right brand of mussel powder in order to get the most noticeable results. This is because the nutrients in the mussels are easily lost. The mussel flesh is highly prone to oxidization during the manufacturing process, and steaming open the mussel shells also destroys the nutrients.

Discovering New, Fun Outdoor Activities With Your Pet

Aside from the usual walks around the park, there are actually many more activities that you can do together with your dog. These different activities will not only give them the exercise that they need but can also train them in specific aspects, such as agility and obedience. And the best part is they can also be a great way for you to bond with your pet. So here are a few of the best outdoor activities that you can do on that next date out.
Adventure Hike
A new trail will be more than a welcome change for your dog. Trail hikes can expose your dogs to different kinds of terrain than the usual concrete and Bermuda grasses in the park. But of course, the new view can pose new dangers and hazards as well, so always be prepared for these. Bring a short or retractable leash to keep the rope from tangling up with branches, and get a tick collar, which can effectively repel away any parasite from making its way on to your dog's fur.
Dog Agility Trails
Agility trails are parks that are made especially for dogs. They are made out of several obstacle courses that your dog will surely have fun going through. There are ramps, balancing bridges, hurdles and many other obstacles that will give your dog that full workout. Today, more and more dog friendly communities are offering them for the residents and their pets.
Water Sports
Most dog breeds are not scared of water and will even be delighted being in one. Aside from that, going out for some water sports during the summer months can be the most fun way to chase off the summer heat while still giving them physical activity. You can play the usually catch with a twist by using waterproof and buoyant toys instead. Just make sure to throw it at a safe distance and at shallower depths.
Soccer
It might be surprising to you but dogs can make tough soccer players. They can run very fast and are as intent in getting the ball as you are. This is a fun way that allows your dog and the entire family to have fun and exercise together. What you simply need is a good wide open space and a ball (not necessarily those expensive soccer balls) that he can bite onto or push around.
Drill Team
A drill team is actually a group of people and their dogs who do synchronized dances. Although this may not be that much of a physical exercise compared to those mentioned above, this can be a great way to teach your dog discipline and obedience and help him improve his social skills towards other dogs and people.
Although physical activities in dogs should be a must, this does not mean that it should all be repetitive and boring. So if you are ready to try something new, then these are the perfect activities to start with.