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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Dog Illnesses: Home Remedy or Vet?

Dogs are more than mere pets, they truly become a part of the family and when they are ill, it can cause true panic. Your dog is not so different from you in that they can get a tummy ache, fever or suffer from bad dental hygiene. Like people, dogs sometimes need the service of medical professionals but in some cases, home remedies will work just as well. Your job is learning how to tell the difference and knowing how to treat them.

Diarrhea

When your dog has diarrhea it is very apparent, particularly if they are an inside dog. There are many things that can result in a bout of diarrhea including change in diet or water. During the first day or two of diarrhea, you can give your pet a small amount of Pepto or other over the counter anti-diarrhea medication. Should the problem persist or other symptoms are present you will want to call your vet and make an appointment. Other serious symptoms:

• Listlessness
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Refuses water
• Explosive diarrhea
• Extremely foul smelling feces

Any of the above-added symptoms can be an indication of canine parvovirus, a deadly disease that carries a high mortality rate. Only with quick intervention can your pet be saved.

Vomiting

Dogs can also vomit for many reasons, upset stomach due to eating something that does not agree with them or internal parasites are both common causes. Generally speaking one or two instances of vomiting is nothing to be overly concerned about, ensure they have plenty of ingested to prevent dehydration and keep an eye out for other symptoms. Many veterinarians will suggest a period of fasting from all substances, allow 24 hours for the stomach to rest and recover from common irritants. During this time, you can give them small amounts of honey or syrup to prevent hypoglycemia. Just rub a little over their gums.

If your dog's vomiting is constant and shows no signs of easing within 48 hours or you see other problems then you'll want to call the vet as soon as possible. Watch for blood, froth, worms and other foreign materials.

Fever

Many people believe that if their dog's nose is slightly warm, they have a fever but this is not necessarily true. Dogs have a higher normal body temperature than humans, typically 101-102 degrees. The best way to get an accurate reading on whether your dog has a temperature or not is by using a specially designed rectal thermometer. It is normal for your dog to run a low-grade fever for up to two days after immunization.

Other causes for fever may not be so evident. If your dog is showing severe signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting or depression get them checked out immediately.

Conclusion

There are times when you can treat your dog at home simply with rest and a few types of over the counter remedies. However, always keep a close eye on their progress as serious illnesses can escalate rather quickly at times. As with people, early intervention is often necessary to prevent debilitation or even death.

Even Dogs Can Be Taught Proper Etiquette

Let's face it; your dog is a very important member of your family. You want to introduce them to your friends, family, and of course other dogs. Having said that, you expect them to have a little etiquette and manners around other people and pets. However, they cannot do it on their own. Just like raising a child, dogs need to be taught how to act properly in social situations and when at home alone. It's best to start them when they are puppies, because they are the quickest to learn. However, you can teach any dog at any age, but you will just have to be a tad more patient with older dogs.

If you are adopting a puppy, this is the best time to teach them proper manners and socialization. Dogs at this young age are like little sponges and will quickly learn what they are taught. A good rule of thumb is that a person should strive to expose them to a hundred different social situations within the first ninety days of taking puppy home. This way they will be familiar with the different noises, smells and touches. This can mean anything from the washing machine going into the spin cycle, to the doorbell ringing, to a car honking. When they are exposed to this, they will "remember" it, and not be scared when exposed to it in the future. Think of it as climatizing or acclimating your dog. This is a brand new world for them, and they deserve a chance to adjust to it safely with you by their side.

Along with introducing Fido to environmental elements, you should also have them meet several different types of people. This means people with high and low voices, loud and soft voices, and different accents. Let your friends and family hold your puppy and play with them. Your puppy will not only have a great time because he is the center of attention, but it will also give the humans a fun time as well. During this time you can also teach your puppy how to not jump on guests or "kiss" them.

Although puppies are the easiest and fastest dogs to train, adult dogs can be trained to be social as well. It just takes a little more time, patience and consistency. You can get suggestions from your vet or a professional dog trainer if need be. If your dog doesn't fare well the first time around, don't give up on him, because he wants to please you as much as you want him or her to act correctly. Always reward your puppy for his good behavior with a doggie treat, and he will work hard for that food in the training you'll be providing to him.

Even though it might seem like an overwhelming task, socializing your dog is really worth the time and effort. You'll be able to relax much more when guests come to your house, and be able to take them out with you more often. The same rules apply when you train dogs to be around other dogs. Over time, your dog will leave you smiling when your friends and family say how well behaved he is.

Detecting Signs of Gastro Parvo in Your Dog

Gastro Parvo is a serious illness for all dogs but, young puppies and older dogs are often hit hard, and when they are the disease can be deadly unless you seek immediate treatment for your pet. Unfortunately for many puppies and older dogs by the time most owners realize that their dog is seriously ill, it may already be too late to save them. Knowing the signs to look for in your dog may well save his life and help prevent the spread of this illness to other dogs as well.

Lethargy

While it is natural for your dog to want to just lie around after a long exercise or play session, most dogs quickly recover after a nap. If your dog is lopping around for an unnaturally long period of time and doesn't seem to want to move even when encouraged or moves slow you might want to make an immediate appointment with a vet. While being lethargic may be a sign of a less serious illness or no illness at all; it is also one of the first signs of parvo and the cost of the vet may well be worth it even if turns out to be nothing at all.

Loss of Appetite

Like lethargy, loss of appetite in your dog may be caused by many things including too many snacks. However, if his loss of appetite is unexpected and accompanied by being lethargic then there is probably something that is making him feel ill even if the cause is not parvo. Again seeking vet care is the best thing to do in order to find out exactly what is wrong and to get prompt treatment.

Fever

Almost every dog who contacts parvo will have some level of fever. Keep in mind however, that some dogs will carry and pass this disease without ever showing any real symptoms. These are usually adult dogs that have been in good health and may have received a parvo vaccine.

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Once the Parvo virus really takes hold, your dog may vomit and/or have diarrhea. In cases of parvo induced diarrhea your dogs stool will not only be liquid but may be almost black in color and extremely foul smelling. In most cases once a young puppy or older dog begins having diarrhea or vomiting he will quickly dehydrate and it is this dehydration that can kill a dog very quickly. 

If your dog, especially a puppy shows signs of vomiting or diarrhea then call your vet immediately. Get a stool sample and try to feed your dog as much fluid as possible. Giving him water laced with Gatorade will help him maintain his electrolyte levels until he can be treated.

Once diarrhea and vomiting have set in, treatment for parvo may include the use of an IV to replace fluids and perhaps even an extended stay at the Vet clinic which will be far more costly than an early visit to your vet, even if the visit proves to be a false alarm. While vaccinating your puppy at the appropriate times can help lessen the effects of this virus it does not mean that your dog still cannot catch it. So take care and be alert in order to protect your beloved pet's health.

Degenerative Joint Disease - What It Is and How It Is Treated

It's a sad fact that all dog owners have to face. Our beloved pets are going to get old someday, and with age come inherent health problems such as degenerative bone disease, or what is better known as arthritis. With the right nutrition from birth this risk dramatically decreases, but that's not always the case. Some breeds, such as large breeds, are more prone to bone problems than others are. However, there are ways to effectively manage and treat it and keep the symptoms at bay via natural treatment options and medications.

Dog arthritis is probably as common in middle-aged and elderly dogs as it is in people. The degenerative nature of the disease begins when the joints, which are normally smooth and covered in cartilage makes moving the joints easy and pain-free. When this cartilage begins to wear down with age, the bone surfaces are exposed to the bones around it and can rub against each other, which results in swelling, inflammation, and pain when the affected joint is moved.

Most dogs are affected by some type of wear and tear arthritis as they enter their senior years, but there is also a form of juvenile arthritis that affects some younger dogs due to a genetic factor. There are ways that you can spot arthritis or at least begin seeing the signs of it, these include:

• Joints that are tender and swollen: check the knees, hips, and elbows for signs of tenderness.

• You may be able to hear a cracking or grinding sound when your dog walks or gets up from a laying down position.

• Your dog may have trouble getting up when he or she is laying down.

• You may notice your dog is reluctant to do things he always did in the past, such as climb a flight of stairs.

• Lameness in any of the legs.

Your veterinarian will use several diagnostic tools to make the diagnosis and begin a treatment plan. First, x-rays will be performed of the suspected joints as well as the spine, since it is often hard to tell if your dog has arthritis of the spine. Once the diagnosis is established, a treatment plan will get underway, which will include:

Weight loss: if your dog is just two pounds overweight, this can be a significant amount of extra weight for him or her to carry and therefore, losing weight will help ease the pain.

Regular and gentle exercise will keep the joints moving and make it less painful for your dog to move more freely

Anti-inflammatory drugs that they have available for dogs today are called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as Rimadyl can help to significantly reduce the inflammation and some dogs respond very well to these newer medications, but some do have side effects and cannot tolerate them, depending on how sensitive they are to the drugs.

You can add glucosamine and MSM to your dog's diet as these are natural anti-inflammatories and glucosamine can actually help to build more cartilage naturally.

Does My Dog Need to Be a Water Dog to Swim in the Ocean or Lake?

Water sports are very popular with families. Whether it is on a water skiing expedition or a leisurely trip in your boat, you need to pay attention to the dog. It is extremely important to keep your dog safe while in the water, and don't wait until the trip to start familiarizing your dog with the water conveyance.

Whatever your mode of travel is, your dog should have a flotation device. These dog specific life jackets could save your dogs life. Some dogs cannot swim. If your dog takes a dive into the water in search of a fish or as an escape, the life jacket could save their life. Hypothermia is another possibility that you need to consider. They serve three purposes; they prevent your dog from drowning, becoming exhausted or hypothermic due to the temperature of the water.

You can find life jackets at most boat shops, major pet stores and online. Be sure you are getting a size that fits snugly and properly to ensure their safety. Your dog may not like the jacket at first, so it is best to acclimate him to the process before you venture out onto the boat. Put the jacket on for a few minutes and repeat for several days. Leave it on a little longer each day and make it a rewarding experience. If you give your dog a verbal, tactile or food reward for behaving until you take it off, he will look forward to the experience in a short time.

It would be wise not to assume that your dog will love being on a boat. Dogs walk on floors and ground, not on a surface that is constantly in motion. Here again it is important to acquaint your dog to the boat. While your boat is on the trailer or at dockside, let them get a turn to get onboard with their life jacket on. Once your dog seems adjusted to the boat, you should start the engine. New noises can startle a dog and set them on a running spree.

Your first trip should be a short one. It will give your dog the opportunity to get used to the travel. There is a possibility that the dog will get seasick, just as humans do.

Dogs are sensitive to heat and sun. It is important to provide them with some shade to get some relief from direct sun exposure. The deck of your boat will get very hot in direct sun. Dogs absorb heat through their feet, so provide them with a padded area to give them some relief.

Have a good supply of drinking water on hand. Dogs can become dehydrated in heat. A sport bottle filled with water is probably the best method to get water in your dog's mouth. You should make every attempt to force water into your dog to prevent dehydration.

Allow your dog a dip in the water to cool. Be sure the life jacket is on before the dog hits the surf or lake. It will be a great relief from the sun and heat and probably a good photo moment.

Dogs need to eliminate their bladder, so if your boat surface isn't appropriate, make plans to hit the shore from time to time.

Dealing With Pet Grief

Dogs come into your life, provide companionship, and for many people become a very close friend. Years of romping in the grass, fetching sticks and warming your feet are great, but at some point in time, you are very likely to lose your pet to old age. The typical life span for dogs ranges between 12 to 18 years depending upon the breed in question. When the time comes, dealing with the death of your pet can be very difficult and if you have children, it can be even harder.

Normal Grief

People who do not own pets may not understand your grief, but that does not mean that your grief is unnatural or something to be ashamed of. Feeling pain and loss when a dog dies is natural and has the same stages of grief that you would experience when losing a loved one. Just know you are not crazy or silly to feel pain and grief.

Pet Grief

As stated earlier grief over the loss of a pet is similar to typical grief, the stages are a bit different however. Below are a few of the different feelings you may experience after losing a pet:

• Guilt - pet owners often blame themselves for a pet's death, running over in their mind what they could have done to prevent it. This is especially true when the death is the result of an accident.
• Denial - it will be difficult to imagine that your pet will no longer be there to greet you when you get home from work. This can become extreme and some owners find it hard to accept a new dog out of fear of being disloyal.
• Depression - grief can lead to depression and can leave you tired and lacking of motivation.
• Anger - there will be plenty of opportunities to be angry, toward the illness, the driver of the car or even your veterinarian who was unable to cure or save your dog.

It is natural for you to experience these feelings; however it is important that you work through these feelings so you can move on. 

  

Expression

You will need an outlet for your feelings because bottling them up inside will only make matters worse. Do not try to hide your emotions or deny feelings of guilt, anger or depression. Expression is your road to healing. There are many ways you can express grief, write poems, talk with friends, cry, scream or even pound the floor but get the frustration out of your system.

Conclusion

For the true pet lover the death of a dog is devastating and it can be difficult to explain these feelings to those who are not similar lovers of furry creatures. Remember that these feelings are normal and you have the right to process your grief. If you have children, remember to be understanding, as they will experience the same grief that you will. It is probably not a good idea to try to replace the pet immediately your child may have a hard time bonding with the new pet because of feelings of guilt.

Caring for Your Outdoor Pet Dog in Winter

For reasons of space limitations, personal preferences and breed disposition, many pet owners will choose to let their pet dogs live outside during the winter season. Well, of course, their pets are allowed inside once the weather gets too harsh as is the case with blizzards. For the most part, however, an outdoors life is the preferred choice for both man and dog.

As a responsible pet owner, you must ensure that your dog is comfortable even in the doghouse. Here are a few tips in this regard.

Shelter

The first need to look after is the dog's shelter, of which the most important requirement is that it should be warm, dry and comfortable. Your pet will then be assured of a safe place within which to escape the frigid snow and wind especially when the doghouse is equipped with a heating mechanism installed by a professional. We recommend staying away from heating lights and heating pads since these require electric cords, which can be chewed on and result to electrocution.

You must also regularly change the beddings in the doghouse lest diseases result from you negligence of such a basic hygiene issue. Take note that the straw can harbor molds that leads to skin and respiratory problems while the dirty blankets also harbor germs.

Food

Naturally, food is the second concern in keeping your pet healthy even when outside in the winter. You must increase its caloric intake as the cold weather demands more from the dog's body in order to keep it warm. Just increase the amount of dog food as well as the supplements preferably with advice from the veterinarian.

Water must also be regularly supplied to your dog on a daily basis. When your dog drinks from the melted or frozen snow and ice, you are exposing it to unnecessary health danger. Even humans will react badly to drinking melted snow once too often.

Hygiene

Even in the dead of winter when socialization opportunities are few and far between, your pet must be groomed for hygienic reasons. Regular grooming maintains a healthy coat, thus, better insulation for your pet.

Long-haired dogs are especially vulnerable to matted coats with debris embedded here and there. You must comb the coat to remove these dirt and debris, which means better insulation. Besides, it simply will not do for your dog to look scruffy.

Veterinary Care

Many dog experts recommend taking your dog to the vet for a physical check-up with the aim of ensuring that it is healthy and, hence, able to withstand wintry conditions. Vaccinations must be updated as many canine diseases become rampant during the winter season.

Plus, dogs are also more vulnerable to diseases during winter for many reasons. You have to carefully monitor almost every symptom of illness lest it becomes worse. We suggest regular checking of the ears, tail and feet since these are the most vulnerable parts of the dog's body during the winter season.

When the weather turns very unpleasant for man and animal, you must lead the dog inside. Hypothermia is a very real concern among dogs and it is not one that you will want your dog to suffer from in the outdoors.

Camping With Your Dog in the Great Outdoors

Taking the family and your dog camping in the great outdoors can be so much fun for all involved. Your dog can have as much fun as you and the rest of the family can. It will be able to romp and play with you like it can't at home because you have to work so much. The fun can be even more when you setup next to a lake you can swim in. If your dog is like mine he loves to swim!

You can take your dog for long walks through the area you have set up camp in. Go explore nature with your dog. Walk the paths through the woods and commune with nature. This will get both of you some exercise which will be good for your health. Your dog will love the attention too.

Another fun activity when camping is swimming if you are by a lake. This way you can let your dog enjoy the water too. Put his lifejacket on so he can swim safely. This keeps something from happening in case he gets tired in the water. Dogs can even be trained to get up on a foam raft so they can float around. My dog just loves doing this when we go to the lake.

At night around the campfire, your dog can lie down near it and warm its body. Also my dog is such a hoot and helps me break small branches up to use on the fire. She grabs the thin pieces of branch in her mouth and then takes her front paws and pushes down on them to break them. Oh how we laugh, it is such fun! She just started it out of the blue one time. Be sure to use only branches that have already fallen though. Most campgrounds permit this but will not permit you to bother living trees.

Another big rule to remember for the safety of your dog is that on dry land he should always be on a leash. Even if you are not in a public campground your dog could take off and chase some wild critter and get hurt in the process. Most public campgrounds will have a rule about the dogs being on leashes and how long they can be.

Make sure when you go camping with your dog that you have all of the flea and tick protection your dog needs. You need put it on the dog prior to going camping if you are using the top-spot applications or using a flea and tick collar, however, if you are using sprays you will need those with you on the campsite to apply probably more than once to protect your dog.

Make sure the dog has their food from home when camping. This will prevent his system from being upset from a change of food. Make sure he has enough water to drink too with being outside and more active than usual too.

Being outside with your dog is a great way to bond with him. Camping is a fun activity to do to accomplish this. It gives you both exercise and the fresh makes you both healthier too.

A Great Option For A Family Dog

You may have heard about them or maybe not, but lately, many Cavalier King Charles puppies for sale have been turning up. No, it's not that they have been featured on TV shows or any of the Hollywood rags-although a famous television personality and his girlfriend do have one-people seem to be discovering or re-discovering this lovable breed.

There's a lot to love about this particular dog breed. One of the most important factors why there are more Cavalier King Charles puppies for sale nowadays is that pet-owners and the dog-breeders find their even temperament quite remarkable. Not only that, their sweet dispositions also complement their "sporting-toy" breed characteristics; this is where the combination of spaniel and toy traits show through; Cavalier King Charles puppies are playful yet gentle.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a happy dog by nature. They are active and smart enough that you can train them so easily. They love to be with people most of the time, they are easy to please too. However, people should always have to impose rules and limit what they can do around the house.

This very social breed loves being part of the family; snuggling against legs, resting on laps, and quietly spending a day indoors is not a problem for them. They do have their athletic instincts as well, more than most people think. Let loose outdoors, this diminutive pet can be quite the runner and chaser. So much so, that allowed to run free, they should be kept within enclosed or fenced yards; Cavaliers have a tendency to run after birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and even butterflies, and they will keep chase even right onto the street.

Another point going for Cavalier King Charles dogs stems yet again from their even temperaments. These dogs are generally happy and eager to please. They are friendly and people-oriented. Their demeanor toward other people and other pets is peaceful and non-aggressive; they can get along well with other dogs and cats. Early socialization will build their confidence and easygoing personality.

A family with or without children will have an easy time welcoming a Cavalier King Charles puppy into their home and their life. Companionship, moderate exercise and activity, attention, and affection are all they need. This breed is also intelligent enough to understand what their owner or family wants and are quite responsive to gentle obedience training. They have all that going for them; and as if that isn't enough, they also have the cutest faces.