Local Value Veterinary

Category: Puppy

  • Dog Boredom

    Dog Boredom

    Tips to Prevent Dog Boredom

    The modern pet dog has little to do; they get free food, affection, and toys without working for it. The trouble with this scenario is that the dogs will become bored if they are not kept busy or mentally stimulated. They may end up finding destructive ways of passing the time. Fortunately, you can prevent dog boredom easily as shown below:

    Boredom is Bad for Dogs

    When your dog is bored, they will likely engage in destructive habits like excessive barking, chewing and digging among other harmful behaviors. Dogs are supposed to be active creatures, so if they don’t get sufficient stimulation, they quickly get bored. What they need are a couple of activities to stimulate their minds and bodies, thus preventing behavioral problems like aggression and anxiety.

    So, if you want to maintain positive behavior in your dogs, make sure you do the following boredom-relieving activities.

    Play with Your Dog

    One easy way of preventing dog boredom is playing with your dog more often. That could be any game like hiding some treats in your house or tug. The first game of hiding treats stimulates your dog’s mind and sense of smell, while the tug game is an excellent interactive sport that will help in physically challenging your dog. Ensure you keep the games fun and safe for best results. You can even consider alternating toys to maintain the dog’s interest in the interactive games.

    Adjust your Regular Walking Routine

    Even though daily walks are essential for your dog, they can become quite mundane and boring if you are using the same old route daily. Change things up by visiting new neighborhoods or even adjusting your pace. You can also give your dog enough time to smell and interact with their environment as it adds the much needed mental stimulation. Remember, that dogs are not merely visual animals, they also like sniffing around.

    Train Your Dog a New Command

    Did you know that obedience training is mentally stimulating for your dog? A couple of ten-minute training sessions per day training on new commands or tricks gives the dog’s brain an excellent mental workout. Working on reliable recall, impulse control, and the basic sit and stay commands are useful to start with during training.

    Plan Play Dates

    Your dog requires some meaningful interactions and play dates are a great option. Socializing and exposing dogs to new places, people and dogs are critical in helping them become socialized.

    References: Puppy Leaks, Rover

    Copyright: Local Value

     

     

  • Dog Energy

    Dog Energy

    Dog Energy is Essential

    As humans, we are primarily intellectual people, and we tend to communicate through words. Due to relying on communication, many dog owners tend to think that dogs also understand our spoken language. However, even though dogs may understand certain words and relate them to specific actions, they are mainly reacting to the intention that we’ve linked to that word.

    How Dog’s Understand Humans

    Let’s take the example of telling a dog to sit down. If you were to instruct your pet to sit down without showing intent behind that instruction, then that dog will not follow your directions. Meanwhile, if you approached your dog with the intention of getting them to sit down and then say any word, then the dog would sit down.

    Dogs Focus on Your Energy

    It is essential to understand that dogs don’t pay too much attention to words from their owners, but instead, they focus on the energy expressed through the emotions, body language and voice tone. That is how dogs communicate with their peers, and it is easily visible in any dog park. Dogs usually indicate submission through lowering certain parts of their bodies, like the ears and heads. Similarly, the dominant dogs will show their dominance by raising their heads, tail or ears while aggression is characterized by stiffened bodies and ears pinned backward.

    According to Cesar, an experienced dog trainer and media personality, the term “energy” refer to how every being presents themselves to the whole world. Energy is your temperament, character or disposition. For humans, that energy is what you get if you mix emotions and intentions. He says that the formula for energy is multiplying intention with emotion.

    Importance of Having the Right Energy

    That formula explains why to have positive and calm energy is highly beneficial for dogs. That is the reason you cannot stop a dog from barking by starting to yell. That dog will not hear your commands; instead, the dog will think that you are also joining in barking.

    When you are assertive and calm, you have a clear intent, and your emotions are balanced. Dogs can clearly understand that. Conversely, lack of clear purpose and negative emotions confuses the dogs and presents as weak energy. Dogs follow that steady energy since it is what they are instinctively designed to do. Hence, it is essential for dog owners to ensure that you are providing that critical, calm and assertive energy balance.

    References: Cesars Way, RD

    Copyright: Local Value

     

     

  • Homemade Dog Treats

    Homemade Dog Treats

    Tips for Making Homemade Dog Treats

    It can be tough to recommend manufactured treats for your dogs as most are usually filled with sugar, flavorings, colors and salts. So what is the alternative dog treat to use that will not lead to obesity and poor health for your pets? Well, a good option is to make the dog treats at home so that you can create delicious and nutritious treats. Ensure you consult your veterinarian before preparing dog treats if the dog has been placed on a customized prescription diet since some of the ingredients could affect that diet. Also, be wary of the food sensitivities and allergies of your dog when preparing the dog treats.

    Keep your dog safe when baking the dog treats

    Preparing tasty treats for your dogs will not mean anything if you end up harming your precious friend in that process. Here are a few precautions worth taking to avoid foodborne illnesses and general accidents:

    • Keep your dogs away from the kitchen when preparing dog treats as they don’t know the idea of hot ovens and stoves

    • Do not use any toxic ingredients, including chocolate, raisins, garlic, onions, and xylitol when making dog treats at home

    • Never use baking molds that contain BPA, which is a contaminant associated with many health issues like cancer.

    • Cook the dog foods to a high temperature to effectively kill all pathogens, like Salmonella.

    Avoid adding unnecessary and unhealthy ingredients

    Most of the ingredients that humans enjoy in their treats are not healthy or even filling for dogs. There is no need for you to use sugars or frosting for your dog treats. Avoiding adding fat to the ingredients is also recommended since some dogs may develop health complications like pancreatitis after eating high-fat foods and treats.

    Instead of the unhealthy ingredients mentioned above, you can include most fruits and vegetables. Some that are recommended by vets include carrots, zucchini, summer squash, cucumber, spinach, Brussels sprouts, apple, dandelion greens, pears, kale, broccoli, bananas, strawberries, and blueberries.

    Pay attention to the number of calories in the dog treats

    Even when giving your dog these homemade dog treats, ensure that you are not substituting their healthy, balanced diet for the unbalanced and incomplete treat. Treats should only amount to less than ten percent of the daily caloric consumption of your dog, with the remaining percentage coming from a balanced diet. It is best to follow recipes that have clearly stated calorie calculations to avoid giving your pets too many calories that will affect their health and lead to obesity.

    References: Pet MD, Simply Pets  

  • Dog Boarding

    Dog Boarding

    Tips for Boarding your Dog

    If you are planning a holiday or a quick getaway trip, a significant concern for any dog owner is where to keep your precious dog when you are away. Most pet owners do not like using kennels and will often look for other alternatives. Boarding your dog is the perfect solution that will give your pets a great time and also give you comfort during your trip knowing that your dog is perfectly secure.

    Besides the added convenience of getting a host dog sitter within your neighborhood, a significant benefit to dog boarding at home is the potential of finding a host that will accommodate your pups exacts needs. The dog sitter will usually provide the same level of attention and love to your dog, thus minimizing their anxiety when you are away for some time. As dogs come in unique personalities and size, here are a few tips to find the ideal boarding hosts for your precious pets.

    Puppy boarding

    The host you choose for the puppy boarding must give constant pet supervision. Since puppies require lots of attention, the host will probably be on the lookout continually to ensure that the house is harmless for exploring as well as ensuring that your puppy is happy and healthy. Retirees and stay at home parents are perfect for puppy boarding. Ensure you check out their house first to confirm that is a fun and safe environment for your puppy.

    Big dog boarding

    Find a person who likes big dogs and also has a big yard where the guest dog can roam freely. Bigger dogs may require more exercise, and the host will recognize how to mentally and physically take care for dogs with lots of strength and energy. It is recommended to find a host that has specific experience with that dog breed to ensure they will be entirely comfortable when hosting your dog even in public.

    Anxious dog boarding

    Most dogs will experience an uncomfortable separation anxiety every time they are not with their treasured owners. Hence, it is critical to select a host that knows ways of calming your dog down and loving them through all that anxiety. Gentle and calm hosts that can earn your dog’s trust are highly recommended.

    Senior dog boarding

    A host with experience with a senior dog knows that it is imperative to take it slow and be patient with the pet. In this case, consider a host without other high-energy pets or children.

    References Cesars Way, BHG

     

  • Dogs are Pack Animals

    Dogs are Pack Animals

    Dogs descended from wolves, and consequently, they naturally act like pack animals. That means that they instinctively seek out nearby packs and join up. It explains why dogs can quickly get along easily with other animals, specifically other herd or pack animals like sheep, horses, and cows. There are even plenty of cases of dogs and elephants becoming the best of friends.

    The Key Behind the Human-Dog Relationship

    That pack mentality is one of the main reasons why dogs bond very well with their human owners. As humans, we are social creatures, which the dogs can instinctively sense and thereby look to enter our pack. In this case, humans are the leaders of the pack and the dogs are under their guidance.

    Positions in a Dog Park

    In all dog packs, there are a few primary positions; including the front, the middle and the rear. The leaders at the front are responsible for leading the pack to look for things they need for their survival, including food, shelter, and water. These leaders both protect and direct the others. Meanwhile, the dogs found in the rear part of the pack are highly sensitive, and their duty is alerting others to any danger.

    Meanwhile, the middle part of the pack is reserved for happy mediators. Their responsibility is maintaining stable energy throughout the pack and settling down any front or rear pack mates that are starting to exhibit unstable energy. It is easy to spot these dogs in your dog pack as they are the ones that will rush and break up fights when some dogs start fighting or playing too roughly.

    Humans Must be The Pack Leaders

    Not all dogs are pack leaders. Many dog packs will usually have a couple of leaders, with all the remaining dogs being followers. That is the perfect model to follow when you bring any dog into your human pack. It is highly recommended that humans act as the pack leaders and the dogs should follow your every word.

    When a dog doesn’t have balanced and robust pack leadership at home from its owners, it quickly becomes unbalanced. That negative state will usually result in anxiety, aggression, confusion and other behavioral issues in your dog. The only way that your dog will be less anxious, secure and balanced is when he or she knows what their owners want and always receives consistent and clear directions every time.

    Conclusion

    When you bring a dog into your life, you are committing to fulfilling all their needs. Hence, being a confident pack leader will help to meet your dog’s essential instinctive and psychological requirements.

    References: ANCAREREYNS, Ceasars Way

     

  • Doggie Daycare

    Doggie Daycare

    Doggie Daycare: Tips for finding the best dog care for your pet

    Doggie daycares are developing to provide services to look after your pet. Yes! These services help keep your dog happy, entertained and stress-free while you are out working. Besides, the pet gets to socialize with other dogs, making sure you companion comes home happy and relaxed.

    However, as a pet owner, it may feel a bit overwhelming while looking for the best doggies’ daycare. Not to worry, here are the lead tips to finding the best care center for your dog and leave them feeling at home away from home.

    Evaluate your pet

    Before committing your dog to any daycare program, it is necessary to evaluate whether the dog is suited for daycare. Keep in mind; not all dogs may prefer being with other canines or enjoy the aspects of group play. Other could experience severe separation anxiety and it’s wise to evaluate such signs before choosing a daycare setting. It is necessary to assess the pet’s interaction and behavior when around the daycare to determine if they are ready.

    Research

    If your pet is fit for daycare, the next option would be to find out about doggie daycare facilities in your area, what to expect and get a tour of the center. Most importantly, start by asking your vet or other pet owners on ideas for good centers. Make a list of essential things that you would like within a dog daycare such as the hygiene, security, staff-to-pet ratio and programs available. Keep this in mind while discovering the best facility.

    Meet the staff

    If you find a prospective doggy’s daycare, schedule a visit and make a tour of the facilities while learning more about the team. An excellent establishment would offer a preliminary meeting where you could meet the professional dog minders and assess their qualification and adequacy in the handling of dogs. Find out how they interact and train the dogs, since not everyone who works work with dogs has the best interest at heart.

    Confide in your dog

    Finally, if possible, take your dog to the determined dog boarding center for a few hours on its own before you straight away leave them for the full duration. You could also opt to always check in after the sessions to ascertain that the dog is thrilled with his new environment. This way the pet won’t feel abandoned, and most importantly, the dog knows you will be back.

    Resources: Grand View Research, PLOS, Dog Monitor App, KAIVAC, No Dog About It

     

  • Anxiety And Emotional Therapy

    Anxiety And Emotional Therapy

    Seven best dog breeds to help in anxiety and emotional therapy

    If you are unfortunate to be suffering from anxiety, a dog could also see you beat your psychological and physical stress. Studies do show pet owners have lower heart rates and blood pressure, with the capability to recover quicker from stress. But not all canine breeds are best at bringing you calm? Here, we get to sniff out the dogs that can help you develop assurance and kick your anxiety.

    • Golden and Labrador retrievers

    Retrievers are perhaps the most popular choice for emotional and anxiety therapy animal due to their temperament, adoring and playful nature to the human family. Golden retriever, especially, is very friendly, trustable and generally well behaved. Labrador retrievers are incredibly playful and can keep one busy throughout the day, making them ideal for anyone dealing with anxiety symptoms.

    • Bulldog

    Bulldogs always appear as rather grumpy, but surprisingly these pugs are known for being very friendly and gentle. Bulldogs have a popularity of still snuggling quietly next to their owners, and for an anxiety sufferer, this seems like a perfect companion at home. “Frenchies” are an example of even-tempered and flexible bulldogs that are popular as a laid-back pet.

    • Poodles

    Apart from being one of the cutest dog breeds around, poodles are also pretty smart. Their high intelligence and longer life-span makes the perfect for longtime grooming in emotional support. These relationship characteristics make poodles valuable allies to keep you company and fight any anxiety present.

    • Spaniels

    The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was initially groomed to be loyal companions since they are super affectionate and would ever want to cuddle. Cockers are another favorite spaniel breed that is openly personable, lively and loving. Their soulful eyes and kind faces will give anyone the reassurance and provide company to make you raise a smile.

    • “Yorkies”

    Yorkshire Terriers or “Yorkies” make up the perfect pug companion if you live in small spaces such as apartments. While they are considered ideal due to size, anxiety sufferers can benefit from this breed due to their tendency to develop healthy relationships makes them one of the most loyal and trainable breeds out there.

    Remember there are many factors when considering a dog for emotional support against anxiety with the dog’s breed being one of them. Still, if you are looking for a canine companion for emotional support, then these dog breeds are an excellent place to start.

    SOURCES: Pet Wave, Castle Wood Bulldogs, Dog Breeds List, Science Daily, Canis Major, The Happy Puppy Site

     

     

     

     

     

  • Choosing the Best Dog Breeds

    Choosing the Best Dog Breeds

    Guide for Senior Citizens When Choosing the Best Dog Breeds

    Dogs have been proven to be of great benefits for senior citizens. They not only bring joy and unconditional love but also help to enhance the lives of older adults. The following is a guide for seniors who are looking for canine companionship and tips on how to incorporate these precious pets into their everyday lives.

    According to veterinarians, it is critical to be careful of the dog breed you choose. You must consider the quality of life for both yourself and your pet. Some of the primary considerations include the size of your house and how regularly you plan on walking your pet among others. Here is a collection of the best breeds for seniors.

    Pug

    The ever-charming pug breed represents a versatile type that makes perfect companions for various people, including senior citizens. Besides requiring minimal grooming and having moderate exercise requirements, Pugs have plenty of fun personality about them. However, since they can be a bit heavy compared to other toy dog breeds, seniors should consider that before choosing them.

    Shih Tzu

    The low-maintenance and easy-going Shih Tzu breed are usually fitting matches for senior citizens. These little dogs are fun, natural companions that do not need a lot of exercises. They are always happy to relax with their owner and are loving and sweet. The only thing that they need is daily brushing and regular grooming to maintain that perfect look.

    Japanese Chin

    A quiet and tidy little pup, Japanese Chins are renowned for being nearly cat-like. As a result, it makes them ideally suited for living in apartments and enjoying short and slow walks. They generally love spending time with people. Additionally, despite having long and beautiful coats, they are surprisingly easy to maintain and only require weekly brushing.

    Boston Terrier

    If you want a more adventurous dog breed, then you should consider getting the Boston Terrier. It is a lively and well-mannered dog breed that delights in the outdoors and plenty of activities. They have great personalities and are quite intelligent, which is easier to train them. Best of all, these dogs love making their people happy.

    Chihuahua

    The most popular dog breed for seniors, the Chihuahua, is the perfect choice because of their tiny size and light exercise requirements. These precious little dogs enjoy the lap time and therefore, thrive as the ideal companions for the elderly. Nevertheless, Chihuahua can also be quite overprotective and loud.

    References: Pet Coach, Love To Know