Try to keep these tips in mind whenever you travel with your dog- whether you travel by car, airplane,  or even just a walk in the woods.

Let me know what you think!

Pet Travel 101 infographic by Lemon.ly.

 

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A dog ages much quicker than a human ages. This means that changes within their body can also happen very quickly. After the first year of their life they reach adulthood. By a dog’s 7th year of life, they are already considered to be in the senior years. This is even sooner in some of the larger dog breeds. Introducing vitamin supplements to your pets ensure that their body is receiving all the needed vitamins and minerals that are needed for good health.

There is another very important reason why you should consider giving your dog vitamin supplements. They grow at such a fast rate of speed that it can be hard for their system to keep up with repairs needed for normal damage that occurs during the aging process. Free radicals are the culprit for causing a lot of problems, one of which is known as oxidative damage. As your pet begins to grow older these compounds are produced at a much faster rate. They can also cause a large amount of damage. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help to repair and stop the damage that free radicals can cause.

Just as a human’s natural defenses are weakened by the formation of free radicals, the same holds true for your dog. They are also responsible for causing a great amount of damage that occurs to a dog’s RNA, as well as their DNA. This of course is not to mention damage that occurs to the enzyme systems and membranes of cells.

When your pet does not receive a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants, there are several different serious health conditions that can occur.

Just a few of these would include the following:

However, you can help to ward off problems like these when your dog eats healthy, and they are given essential vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants through vitamin supplements.

Save time and money by ordering senior dog vitaminsfrom Amazon

As your dog begins to age, the needs of their diet can also change. It is important to speak with your dog’s veterinarian for the healthiest suggestions of a healthy diet. Although a diet made of natural ingredients can be rather time consuming, you will find their benefits to be more than worth the extra effort. There are also healthy snacks that are okay to give your pet and they are packed full of essential vitamins and minerals. A few of these include sweet potatoes, oranges, carrots, tomatoes, asparagus tips, and cantaloupe. It is likely that not every dog is going to like each one of these food items. However, giving him small portions of each one at different times you are eating them will give you a good idea on the ones he’d enjoy eating

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The American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards™ were created in 2010 to celebrate the remarkable bond between dogs and people. This annual national competition searches out and recognizes America’s Hero Dogs in our midst who save lives, provide comfort, and help those needing assistance.

Heroic hounds can be nominated in one of eight categories:

1. Law Enforcement & Arson Dogs
2. Service Dogs
3. Therapy Dogs
4. Military Dogs
5. Guide Dogs
6. Search and Rescue Dogs
7. Hearing Dogs
8. Emerging Hero Dogs (for ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things or are just heroes to us)

Finalists in each category will be selected by the American public via online voting, Voting begins for the Hero Dog Awards May 7^th 2013, at www.HeroDogAwards.org Last year 3 million votes were cast for the 100s of nominated dogs. Following the announcement of the eight finalists, the public and a special blue-ribbon celebrity judging panel will have the chance to name the top American Hero Dog of 2013.

The Hero Dog Awards ceremony will take place at the star studded Red Carpet event at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills October 5th 2013. Tony and Emmy winner, Kristin Chenoweth, was last years host, and the brightest stars, including icon, Betty White, turned out to shine the spotlight on the K9 Heroes.

New This Year, the 2013 Hero Dog awards have an official Spokesdog – two-time shelter dog, Super Smiley. In addition to being a Therapy Dog with Pet Partners and a HOPE Animal Assisted Crisis Response Dog, Super Smiley is on a mission to help all the shelter pets get adopted!

Smiley has inspired The Super Smiley™ Flash Mob 4 Pet Adoption National Tour as his answer to the sad TV commercials for pet adoption. It’s the Happy Campaign! The Super Smiley Flash Mob has inspired Award Winning “Dogumentaries” that have been winning Film Festivals sharing his message across the country. Over 50 Flash Mobs have energized pet adoption including the recent
“A Second Chance” Pet Adoption and St. Patty’s Day Pet Pageant & Fair in Long Beach, California.

Smiley’s person is Megan Blake, The Pet Lifestyle Coach™, from Animal Attractions TV, Pet Life Radio, and The O’Neals on the OWN network. She and Smiley work together promoting pet adoption and keeping pets in their forever homes with The Pet Lifestyle Coach philosophy and the Super Smiley Campaigns. They recently both acted in an animal advocacy feature film, Susie’s Hope and are an official Spokes-team for the film’s message of hope and forgiveness and standing against animal abuse.

Read about the 2012 Hero Dog Awards and/or watch the star-studded video below.

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The original articles elaborate on and/or justify each of the stated reasons. I’ve made it easy and summarized below the reasons for and against dating a dog owner. To keep it fair, I skipped the last reason to date a dog owner, so that they each have 10 reasons. Read them, think about them, and then decide for yourself if you should date a dog owner.

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If you have difficulties getting your dog to step and stay inside the car, the following suggestions may help alleviate his fear and can make the car travel experience fun for the both of you. You should start these exercises at least a week before going on your long trip.

1. While the car is parked in the driveway, open the back seat and place your dog inside the car. Make sure that the engine is off so as not to scare him while he is inside. Let the dog spend some time alone back there with either a snack,chew bone,or a dog toyto play with. This will allow him to get used to being inside the car.

The snack, the chew bone, or the toy that you placed in there will create a positive experience for him, which will make the car ride stress free. Remember: avoid keeping your dog inside the car for too long in a hot weather!

Save time and money by ordering dog supplies from Amazon

2. Once your dog is comfortable being in the backseat of the car, close the door (with the windows rolled down) and get inside the drivers seat. Stay there for about a minute while your dog is getting used to the door being closed.

3. Finally, turn on the engine and take him for a short ride (maybe a quick trip around the block). Leave his chew bone and toys inside the car to keep him occupied while he is getting used to being inside the running car. After the short trip, make sure that you give him a good treat such as a game of fetch or a nice walk.

Repeat the same process, increasing the distance of the trip, until your dog gets to the point where he actually looks forward to riding in the car. From now you you will then be able to drive long distances and through high noise areas without disturbing our upsetting your companion.

Hey, before you know it, you may have to let your dog drive your car!

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Looking for an enjoyable dog event this weekend?
Instead of having to search different web sites all over the Internet, you now have a single spot where you will find all types of L.A. dog events: classes, adoption events, fundraisers, fun events, and much more.

Do you have an event you would like us to post? The Los Angeles Dogs Event Calendar is a great way to promote your L.A. dog events. Please email us at events@losangelesdogs.net.

We’d also love to hear from you if you have any feedback, questions or suggestions on how we can make our calendar better.

Our dog events calendar actually has a lot of different features and we feel that they are easy to discover and use. But just to make sure you don’t miss anything, here is a list of the main views and features:

Also, here are 3 screenshots of the main views of the calendar, where I have highlighted (red ovals & squares) areas that you can click for more information on the dog events.

Los Angeles Dog Event Calendar – Click here
 
Upcoming Los Angeles Dog Events – Click here
 

Note: We have added a section to our Terms of Use to address the Dog Events Calendar.
Let your friends know about this calendar - Click on the buttons below to share with your friends!

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Top 10 Things That Upset Your Dog …

1. Blaming your farts on me… not funny… not funny at all!!!
2. Yelling at me for barking.. I’M A FRIGGIN’ DOG, YOU IDIOT!
3. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway?
4. Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose… stop it!
5. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. That’s why we chew your stuff when you’re not home.
6. The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw. You fooled a dog! Whoooo Hoooooooo what a proud moment for the top of the food chain.
7. Taking me to the vet for “the big snip”, then acting surprised when I freak out every time you want to take me back!
8. Getting upset when I sniff the crotches of your guests. Sorry, but I haven’t quite mastered that handshake thing yet.
9. Dog sweaters. Hello ? Haven’t you noticed the fur?
10. Yelling at me for rubbing my butt on your carpet…Why’d you buy carpet?

Did you laugh? Of course you did!

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Photo (L to R): Megan Blake, Super Smiley, Donna Lawrence, Susie, at the American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards 2012
Photo by Kim Swartz

“Susie’s Hope” is a animal advocacy feature film based on the true life story of a North Carolina dog who was set on fire in 2010. Susie survived and now is an inspirational spokes-dog standing against animal cruelty. Donna Lawrence, the survivor of a vicious pit bull attack, adopted Susie, an abandoned pitbull mix who was the victim of severe abuse from her previous owner – beaten, set on fire and left for dead.

“Susie’s Hope” is directed by Jerry Rees and starring Emmanuelle Vaugier as Donna Lawrence, Susie’s real-life person. Other cast includes Andrea Powell from “Twilight – Breaking Dawn”, and Jon Provost who created and played the character Timmy in the iconic television series “Lassie.” Megan Blake,The Pet Lifestyle Coach(TM), from Pet Life Radio’s “A Super Smiley(TM) Adventure” plays Susie’s trainer in the film. Blake’s dog, Super Smiley, makes a special cameo appearance as well.

For Megan Blake the role was truly an act of love: “It was such an honor to work on this film that delves into the horrific cruelty people sometimes inflict on innocent animals, but then turns to share an amazing journey of hope, forgiveness and of the power we all have to affect change, create new legislation and to share the depth and immense value of these animals.”

The world premier of “Susie’s Hope” was April 13th at the RiverRun International Film Festival in Winston Salem, North Carolina. The show sold out immediately, so two additional screenings were added on April 16th and 20th. For ticket information go to 2013.riverrunfilm.com

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Do you agree with the experts from Good Housekeeping? I think they are pretty much on the mark, for almost all of them. Share you thoughts in the comments.

What do you think is the right thing to do in these scenarios?
Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

1. Guests are coming to your home and you have a dog.
2. Your pet hurts another animal.
3. You want to take your dog to a store or restaurant.
4. Your pet licks or jumps on people.
5. You take your dog to a public beach or park.
6. You want to bring your dog to a friend’s house.
7. Your cat or dog has an accident at a friend’s place.
8. You’re traveling with your pet.
9. You and your dog live in an apartment with neighbors on all sides.
10. Your dog is going to be spending time with kids.

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We need to be vigilant and prevent our dogs from coming into contact with poisonous chemicals, contaminated food, and toxic plants. Even household cleaning products such as bleaches and detergents can be toxic. Insecticides, fertilizers, rat, and rodent poisons are highly toxic to dogs and in some cases can cause death.

Holiday Poison Hazards

Here are a few things that can be found around your home during the holidays that can be toxic or even fatal to your pets: chocolate, cakes, candy, alcohol, tinsel, potpourri, holly berries, ivy, mistletoe, chemical tree life extenders, anti freeze solutions, pine needles and sap.

List of Plants that are Toxic for Dogs

Lots of us enjoy gardening and owning a dog. Do a check of your garden. This is a list of some of the toxic plants to dogs which you should keep away from your dog.

Certain Food can cause Dog Poisoning

Keep your pet safe from bacterial food poisoning by feeding your dog fresh food. Just like we wouldn’t eat anything past it’s expiration date, we shouldn’t feed it to our dogs either.

Some mushrooms are poisonous to dogs and can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If they grow on your lawn, the safest option is to remove them altogether.

Tea and coffee which contains caffeine should never be given to your dog as it can affect the central nervous system and increase urination.

Additionally, some of the food we enjoy can be toxic to our dogs. Did you know one of our favorite foods, chocolate, contains theobromine and is toxic to dogs and could cause muscle twitching, hyperactivity, seizures and even death. You could be killing your dog with kindness!

Save time and money by ordering dog medications from Amazon dog medications

What to do in an Emergency

Always keep the emergency telephone number of your Veterinary Surgery somewhere handy. We keep numbers of Emergency Services on the fridge door and in our mobile phones just in case. It is one less thing to have to think of in a stressful situation.

Give the following information:

• Your name and phone number
• Name and breed of your dog
• Explain what your dog has ingested, if known, and how much
• How much time has elapsed
• Explain the symptoms your dog is showing

If your dog has vomited, take a sample to the vet. Every piece of information may save the life of your dog. Even if you don’t know what has poisoned your dog your vet should be able provide treatment.

Some Vets may come straight out to your home but be ready to take your dog to the Vet where they will have everything on hand to treat your dog.

Lastly take a good look around your home and garden. Ensure your home and garden is dog friendly and that offending items are locked away out of harms way.

This post was reprinted with permission from http://www.dogsgossip.com

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On Saturday, May 11, 2013, the Dodgers will hold another Natural Balance Bark in the Park at Dodger Stadium (1000 Elysium Park Avenue in Los Angeles, California). Fans that purchase a special event ticket (in the Coca-Cola All-You-Can-Eat Right Field Pavilion) are invited to bring their dogs to the park and enjoy special pre-game activities – before cheering on our L.A. Dodgers as they take on the Miami Marlins at 6:10 p.m.

MLB Los Angeles Dodgers Matt Kemp Deep Royal Basic T-Shirt

The Academy Gate (828 Academy Road, Los Angeles, CA 90012) will open at 3:10 pm.

The fun begins at 4:10 pm with a pre-game “Pup Rally” in Parking Lot G between the Left and Right Field Pavilions. The dogs and their owners will check in at this location and receive a goodie bag.

The rally will feature a demo from Tillman the Surfing Bulldog

There will also be several contests including:

• Dog that looks most like Tillman
• Dog that shows most Dodger Spirit
• Biggest Dog
• Smallest Dog

Immediately following the “Pup Rally”, there will be a parade around the warning track of the field, where the human fans can march along together with their dogs.

Come dressed in Los Angeles Dodgers fan gear from Amazon

PRICE:
Human $30: Coca-Cola All-You-Can-Eat RF Pavilion ticket that includes unlimited Dodger Dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn, Coke products, and water
Dog $30: includes ticket to the Coca-Cola RF Pavilion, Dog Goody Bag, and participation in the pup rally and parade.

The Dodgers will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Los Angeles.

For more information, including dog requirements and waivers, and to buy tickets, go to the Los Angeles Dodgers web site.

Note: The Dodgers will be hosting another Bark in the Park on Saturday, September 28th. Tickets will be available soon.

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The dogs are cared for and worked by the inmates throughout the entire day. While the program is a boon for the dogs – training them to be more adoptable instead of being put to sleep – many of the inmates in the program feel that they are gaining a lot more from the training than the dogs are.

Prison officials are also very happy with the program, claiming that the inmates in the program are less likely to cause problems in the prison. Based on this success, they are considering expanding the program to additional L.A. County jail facilities.

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Yes, I really am a pet first aid instructor. Why? Because dog-sh*t happens! According to the American Animal Hospital Association, 25% more pets could be saved if just one pet first aid technique were applied prior to getting veterinary treatment. I don’t know about you, but I think 25% is a huge amount!

Preventable accidents are the leading cause of death and disability for non-senior dogs and cats. Knowing the techniques of pet first aid can prevent death, can prevent or lessen disability, can prevent or lessen pain. As a pet first aid instructor, my biggest challenge is the fact that typical pet owners aren’t aware that pet first aid classes even exist.

Pet first aid classes cover such topics as poisoning, bleeding protocols, rescue breathing, heat/cold injuries, CPR and situations requiring veterinary care. They may also cover subjects like dental health or caring for a senior pet. These days, pet owners are not only concerned with knowing how to be reactive in case of emergency, they also want to know how to be proactive in their pet’s health and well-being.

Save time and money by ordering pet first aid supplies from Amazon First Aid Kits for Pets

There are a number of pet first aid classes available out there, including some online. Don’t take the easy way out; take the class the most comprehensive class you can find. Be sure it includes repetitive hands-on practice, not just lecture and demonstration. You want to be sure that you have muscle memory of the skills you learn so that you can access them in case of emergency. If you live in the Los Angeles area, you can always see the current class offerings at Healthy Paws here: http://www.healthypawsla.com/healthy-paws-class-schedule.html.

Take a pet first aid class. You’ll learn a lot, and they’re always a good time. To find a pet first aid instructor in your area, visit www.PetTech.net. Pet Tech is the first international training center for pet first aid and care. If there isn’t an instructor in your area, consider becoming one. Just like Pet Tech’s mission statement, you’ll be “improving the quality of pet’s lives, one pet owner at a time.”

Jillian Myers is the owner of Healthy Paws in Los Angeles. In addition to pet first aid and care classes, Healthy Paws also offers professional pet care services (pet sitting, dog walking, etc.) to discerning pet owners in west LA. Jillian is also a volunteer at the West Los Angeles Animal Shelter. She highlights adoptable dogs on the Hounds Needing Homes section of the Healthy Paws website www.HealthyPawsLA.com. She encourages all animal lovers to donate their time to their local animal shelter…the animals will love and appreciate it!

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The owner and founder of Santa Monica’s Fit Dog Sports Club comes with a work resume that you might not have expected…

Andrea Servadio was a successful investment banker in New York City for almost 10 years. Then came the financial crisis of 2008 – so Andrea packed her bags and moved out west to Los Angeles. She thought she would take some time to relax and figure what to do next. But that didn’t last much more than 6 months.

Andrea and her partner got very frustrated when they started looking for daycare options for their Jack Russell Terrier, Brecken. Wherever they looked, they could not find anything that matched the staff and facilities they were accustomed to in Manhattan.

To make a log story short, Andrea and her partner opened Fitdog Sports Club in November 2010. The 5,000-square-foot facility offers upscale daycare, boarding and grooming services in line with the Los Angeles lifestyle, including exercise and training programs, treadmill workouts, beach excursions and canyon hikes. Club membership is capped at 70 dogs, thereby maintaining a low ratio of one handler to 17 dogs.

The services they offer include:

Having overcome some early difficulties and challenges, Andrea is now scouting for a second location. It sounds like “Going to the Dogs” was a great financial move for this investment banker!

Have you ever thought of starting your own dog business?
You don’t have to start with something as big as a high-end dog sports club. You can start with something much smaller – even just part-time extra income – such as a dog walking, sitting, or grooming service. Is your concern that you don’t know how to market your business?

Check out Pet Sitting Profits and the special bonus we are offering to LosAngelesDogs.net readers.
 
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Time for Basketball. Brackets. Beer. Cheerleaders. Mascots.

Yes, for us animal lovers, the mascots of the competing NCAA basketball teams is a significant part of the show. Who do you think are the top animal mascots of March Madness 2013?

Here is what the Vetstreet staff chose as their Elite 8 NCCA basketball mascots for the 2013 March Madness. Click on that link to see the full details and pictures of each of these animal mascots.

1. Jack and Jack Jr., Georgetown University
2. Tuffy, North Carolina State
3. Rameses, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4. CAM the Ram, Colorado State University
5. TOM III, University of Memphis
6. Boomer and Sooner, The University of Oklahoma
7. Ralphie, The University of Colorado
8. Blue II and III, Butler University

With such beautiful and fascinating mascots, who can focus on the NCAA basketball games?

OneStopFanShop.com-Largest Selection of Team Sports Merchandise Available! Click here!

Click on the banner and choose from a wide variety of college gear and gifts – for over 200 colleges!

Shirts, watches, bags, hats, and many other ways to root for your team – during March Madness and throughout the year!

Shop OneStopFanShop.com for all your tailgating needs. Licensed cornhole, chairs, tables, tents, coolers, and much, much more!

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UPDATE: We’ve updated this page with links to the Los Angeles Dogs Events Calendar for each of the individual events, with details and a map to the venue.

Four of Animal League America’s Mobile Adoption Units will simultaneously travel across the United States. During this year’s tour, the Tour For Life Mobile Adoption Units will will travel over 17,000 miles and stop in 53 different cities in 27 states (and Washington D.C.).

In partnership with PURINA ONE®, the objective of these mobile shelters is to join rescue partners throughout the country and help save the lives of thousands of animals through both education and adoption events. Last year’s Tour for Life helped find homes for over 1,500 animals!

The national spokesperson for this year’s tour is Actress Renèe Felice Smith from NCIS: Los Angeles.

When will the Tour for Life be in Los Angeles?

Tour For Life (Burbank)
Burbank Animal Shelter
April 26, 2013
1pm- 6pm
AMC Walkway
125 East Palm Avenue
Burbank, CA 91502

Tour For Life (Covina)
Baldwin Park Animal Care Center
April 28, 2013
12pm-5pm
Walmart
1275 North Azusa Avenue
Covina, CA 91722

Tour For Life (Irvine)
Irvine Animal Care Center
April 27, 2013
10am – 2pm
Irvine Animal Care & Control
6443 Oak Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92618

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The American Veterinary Medical Foundation is sponsoring a contest to find America’s Favorite Veterinarian. You can submit your story and nominate your veterinarian through a Facebook app  on the AVMF Facebook page.  The story must be 250 words or less, must include  a photo of your pet or your pet with your favorite veterinarian, and must be submitted by June 1, 2013.

If your story is selected as the winner, you and your favorite veterinarian will win a trip to Chicago to attend AVMF’s Impact & Action Breakfast on July 21, 2013.  You will receive a cash prize of $250 and your favorite veterinarian will receive a named donation in the amount of $250 and complimentary registration to the AVMA Annual Convention in Chicago.

So who is YOUR favorite veterinarian?

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What do you think?

Homemade Dog Toys

If you  like doing things for yourself – especially for your dog – then you will love this very affordable ($9.97) eBook – Homemade Dog Toys. This book contains step by step instructions for making fun toys for your dog all by yourself  (or with your kids).  There are instructions for 21 different dog toys, most of which can be completed in 15 minutes or less!

This is a great opportunity to save money on overpriced store-bought dog toys, to create “Green” dog toys from trash, and to have creative fun at home. Wish you could start a small home-based business? This could be a great starting point.

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As soon as your new puppy arrives at your home for the very first time, you should immediately begin the training process. Successful puppy training can be a pleasant and rewarding experience to everyone, as long as you start early and remain consistent week after week, month after month, and yes – year after year!

Prepare Ahead Of Time Before Your Puppy’s Arrival

To make the process more effective, everyone in the household should be involved in training the new member of the family, including your kids. Your child’s participation with training the puppy will not only give him/her a feeling of pride and value, but it is also a great way for the child to learn about responsibilities and caring for others. In addition, involving your child in training the puppy is the fastest way for the two to build a healthy friendship together, and fast!

Ways To Involve Your Child In Training Your Puppy

Keep in mind that no matter how responsible your child may be, it is not a good idea to give her the full responsibilities of taking care of the new puppy. Even if you had adopted the puppy for her, it is still your responsibility to ensure that your pet is well cared for. However, there are lots of ways for your child to contribute.

Below are some of the things that she can do to participate in caring for your new puppy.

1. Prior to the puppy’s arrival, your child can help pick out puppy supplies. Before you go to the store to buy the things that your puppy needs, create a checklist at home. Take her to the store and have her read the list and help pick out the supplies. Ask for suggestions on which color or shape to pick. This first step will put her in the mindset of sharing the responsibility of taking care of the new pup.
2. Your child can also help set up the puppy’s new living area. Have a basket where you can store the pup’s toys and have your child put the toys in it. She can put the cushion inside the crate and then place the food and water dish in its appropriate area.
3. Last but not the least – your child can help in giving the new puppy lots of love and attention. This, of course, should be done under close supervision of an adult, particularly during the puppy’s first few days home.

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The star of the event was Megan Blake, The Pet Lifestyle Coach(TM) from “Animal Attractions TV” and Pet Life Radio and her dog Super Smiley, who were at the event to perform their Super Smiley Flashmob 4 Pet Adoption!

Super Smiley Flash Mob In Action
Photo credit: Sandra Lollino

Megan Blake developed the flash mob with her dog Smiley to raise awareness and energy for pet adoption. You can learn more at www.SmileyTheDog.com

Super Smiley Flash Mob
Photo credit: Kim Swartz

Megan and Smiley together with Tanya and Sparky
Photo credit: Kim Swartz

To quote Super Smiley:

I’m Smiley The Dog
I want the Whole World to Come Dance with Us
and Energize Pet Adoption!
We need a Happy Rockin’ Campaign!
So All the Pets Get Adopted!

The first video below tells the story of the Super Smiley Flash Mob 4 Pet Adoption Tour. It is a truly inspiring video – I hope that it will inspire you enough to watch the second video and lean the flash mob dance, so you can join in on Sunday!

Learn the Super Smiley Flash Mob story:

Learn the Super Smiley Flash Mob dance:

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“A Second Chance” Pet Adoption and St. Patty’s Pet Pageant / Pet Fair will take place. at:

Good Neighbor Park
2800 Studebaker Rd.
Long Beach, CA. 90815

The event is hosted by The Pet Post in partnership with Pet Sit Pros and they have planned a fun-filled afternoon including music, entertainment, shopping, eating, and a special St. Patty’s pet pageant and parade.

There is no cost to attend the event – attendees are simply requested to bring a bag of dog food for the Homeless With Dogs pet food and supply drive.  Homeless with Dogs is a unique organization that helps care for the pets of the Long Beach homeless society.

The following non-profit dog and cat rescues and animal humane groups will be at the event, hoping to find homes for the many homeless dogs and cats in Los Angeles:

Oh – one more thing. The entertainment will include a VERY special appearance by some very famous people. But I’ll post about that tomorrow… [UPDATED with link to that post above]

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There has been a lot of heated discussion on the web this past week, following Yahoo’s announcement that it will no longer be allowing employees to work from home. Other big companies, such as Best Buy, are following suite as well. While I have a definite opinion on the subject, that is not what I want to write about today.

The more relevant work environment issue for dog owners is whether or not companies allow employees to bring their pets to work.

According to a report in USA Today, there is a growing trend of allowing pets in the workplace. Employers are acknowledging the advantages and benefits of allowing employees to bring their pets to work – the anecdotal evidence is now backed up by research results.

Researchers conducting a study at the Virginia Commonwealth University, compared three groups of employees in the areas of stress, job satisfaction, organizational commitment and support. They compared employees who brought their dogs to work, employees who did not bring their dogs to work and employees who didn’t own pets.

According to principal investigator Randolph T. Barker, Ph.D.:

Dogs in the workplace can make a positive difference. The differences in perceived stress between days the dog was present and absent were significant. The employees as a whole had higher job satisfaction than industry norms.

Find the best prices on accessories for your dog at Amazon

Employees who brought their dogs to work claimed that having their dog with them at work and available for petting was a very relaxing influence, but that it also had many other practical benefits such as ensuring the employee took a lunch break and short walk every day.

Dr. Barker summarized that:

Pet presence may serve as a low-cost, wellness intervention readily available to many organizations and may enhance organizational satisfaction and perceptions of support. Of course, it is important to have policies in place to ensure only friendly, clean and well-behaved pets are present in the workplace.

What do you think? Can you bring your dog to work? Would you like to?

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As soon as your puppy is brought into your home and is safely settled in, all children, regardless of age, should be assigned specific tasks to involve them in taking care of the new family member. These tasks should be age-appropriate so that each child can easily manage the assignment, either on her own or with your help. Too much or too little responsibility can be discouraging to a child and can tarnish the relationship that he/she should have with your new pet.

What Can Toddlers Do?

Toddlers (up to three years old) can pick up the puppy’s toys and put them back in the basket. Toys that are left out can be a hazard both to the family and your puppy. Toddlers can also hand treats as a reward during training and for good behavior. And when it’s time for your puppy to go to the vet to get his shots, your child can be there to see that the little pup gets shots just like he does!

Pre-Schoolers & Young Kids

Pre-schoolers and young kids (up to eight years old) can help, under supervision, with feeding the puppy and making sure that his water bowl is never empty. Children around this age can also take the puppy out (with a leash) for bathroom breaks and can assist in bathing and brushing the puppy.

However, other grooming procedures like ear cleaning, nail clipping, and teeth brushing should be done by the adults and older kids. Youngsters can also hold the leash of a small puppy during walks, but have older children walk larger dogs.

Children Ages 9 and Up

Kids from the age of nine and up should be able to do all of the above tasks. In addition, they can help clean up after the pet and help with house training and basic training commands, such as “Sit” and “Come”.

Even if some of the tasks mentioned are less than enjoyable to do, children should realize that doing these chores is part of owning a dog. Realizing all characteristics of a responsible dog owner early on in their lives can help them become informed and responsible adult dog owners.

Two other puppy tasks that your child can participate in, regardless of the child’s age, are keeping the dog physically fit and mentally healthy. This can be achieved by regular exercise and socialization from the moment your puppy arrives in the home.

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Children who grow up with a family dog learn respect for other creatures as well as caring for them. These kids learn empathy, sympathy, handling responsibilities. They also develop self-confidence and self-esteem by knowing they are contributing to taking care of a living creature.

You Must Help

These benefits and learning experiences between children and their pets do not occur automatically. It takes a responsible and patient adult to properly introduce the child to the new puppy and teach him/her how to properly interact with this new member of the family.

At the same time, the puppy needs to learn respect and obey the child the same way as he respects and obeys the other members of the household. This way, every member of the family can have a loving and healthy relationship.

The manner in which you approach your puppy and the experiences that you give him from his very first minute in the house will create a lasting impact throughout his entire life. From the first introduction, your child should learn the proper way to treat the puppy. Your child should realize that the puppy is a baby, and in many ways should be treated like one.

Avoiding Injuries To Your Child and the Puppy

Your child will likely be very fascinated with the new member of the family – so much so that she will want to grab him and put him on her lap. Be sure to tell your child not to pull, grab, squeeze, drag, or poke the puppy. Doing so can hurt the little dog or result in him reacting aggressively to the child, which could injure or cause the child to fear the puppy.

Children around the age of 7 years and younger have the tendency to get excited when faced with new situations and experiences. This excitement may not be ideal when it comes to meeting a new puppy, or a dog of any age for that matter.

Excited behaviors such as making loud noises, chasing after the puppy, pulling at him, and other aggressive behaviors will result in the puppy getting scared.

In this situation, the puppy will more likely run away instead of letting the child pet him. A very young puppy will try to find his mom and hide under her, while a puppy around 12 weeks old will perceive these behaviors as either a threat or an aggressive play and will most likely react by nipping or jumping up.

The proper way of introducing your new pet to your child is through restraint and guidance. Your child should realize that the puppy is a baby and that your child should be gentle when handling him. To better teach your young ones how to be gentle, use a stuffed animal and teach her how to pet it properly. Practice this with your child for a few days before the puppy arrives home.

Remember to stay calm and positive and don’t raise your voice. This is an exciting time for everyone and is an experience that will set the stage toward a happy and healthy friendship between your child and your puppy.

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To learn more about the many different dog breeds, read through our Dog Breed Briefs.

If you are a couch potato, then consider a breed that doesn’t require a high demand of physical activity. Although they still need to be exercised everyday, they usually get enough of it by running around the house.

Examples of these breeds are: English Toy Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Shih-Tzu, Chihuahua, and Yorkshire Terrier. If you prefer a larger dog, go for a Clumber Spaniel, Afghan Hound, Mastiff, Sussex Spaniel, or Bulldog.

Are you looking for a dog that your child can grow up with? Then pick one that has a gentle personality and large enough so that he won’t be injured by your child. Breeds to consider are Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bulldog, Collie, Basset Hound, Standard Poodle, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Scottish Deerhound, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and Bouviers des Flandres.

If you prefer a smaller breed, then consider a Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Papillon. These dogs are not only smart, but also excel in speed and agility.

If you love spending time outdoors, go for a sporting breed, particularly one from a spaniel family such as a Cocker Spaniel or the retriever family such as a Golden Retriever. These breeds have a moderate-to-high level of activity.

If you are a very active person and would like a dog that can keep up with your own high energy output, consider other breeds from the sporting group such as an English Springer Spaniel, a Labrador Retriever, or a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

Breeds that do well in outdoor activities and are considered to be canine athletes include Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Belgian Sheepdogs, Border Collies, Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

If you want a dog that acts and looks like a bodyguard, one that is always on alert and barks at anything unusual, a breed from the working or herding group might be for you. Examples are Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Bullmastiff, Belgian Tervuren, German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Boxer, Mastiff, Belgian Malinois, Canaan Dog, and Standard Schnauzer.

In need of a training partner? A high-energy breed may be the dog for you. Some examples of are Golden and Labrador Retrievers, English Setter, Brittany, Weimaraner, Vizsla, Flat-Coated Retriever, Siberian Husky, Australian Shepherd, Basenji, Akita, Dalmatian, Norwegian Elkhound, Kerry Blue Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, English Springer Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, and Irish Setter.

Love boating or going the beach? Consider a dog born to swim such as a Labrador Retriever, Curly-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Otterhound, Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, American Water Spaniel, and Newfoundland.

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I just came across this petition calling on the Los Angeles City Council to draft an ordinance to offer incentives to landlords who refuse to accept tenants with pets. The initiative of the petition would seem to be the desire and need to increase the number of homes available to people with pets, reducing the frustration they face today when looking for rental apartments or homes in Los Angeles.

Additional benefits are outlined in the body of the petition:

A large number of Los Angelenos rent their homes and a great deal of landlords do not allow pets. If landlords were incentivized to permit tenants with pets, so long as the tenants were liable for any damages and were responsible for their pet’s behavior, such as existing laws about excessive barking, it would open a huge number of homes to animals in need.

I also believe that it could increase community relationships and prevent crime as people are inclined to walk their dogs in their neighborhoods and meet their neighbors when they do. Having pets can also be a benefit to an tenant’s physical and mental fitness, so it could be a health initiative as well.

The petition to Open more Los Angeles homes to pets can be signed online, where there is a Spanish translation as well.

Do you agree with this petition? Let us know in the comments.

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Here is the list of Pit Bull celebrities – in no particular order:

For details on these celebrities and their efforts on behalf of Pit Bulls, read the Ecorazzi article.

Want to learn more about Pit Bulls? Want to buy a gift for a Pit Bull owner?
Shop for these Pit Bull products at Amazon!

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The first category of resources that we have started posting to this new area is “Dog Breed Briefs”. This is a great way to learn about the many different recognized dog breeds – and maybe even a little something that you didn’t know about your own favorite dog breed. These brief overviews outline the history, significant characteristics, and health issues for each dog breed covered. We will be adding to the list of Dog Breed Briefs on a regular, ongoing basis.

Of course, you still have the option of receiving the Dog Breed Briefs directly in your email Inbox twice a week. Just click here to send us an email and receive our free Dog Breed Briefs

In the coming weeks, we will be adding other categories of resources, so please stay tuned!

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Meet Harry Grumbles – a real NYC dog. See New York City through his eyes and voice.

Anonymity. It’s a big part of living in New York. Over eight million people roaming the streets of NYC allow the same people to pass you day after day without you ever getting to know them. The same can be said about the over 600,000 dogs in NYC. At a glance, one dog is no different from the next. Except Harry Grumbles. We recently had the opportunity to film with Harry and when his short, rotund body didn’t fill the frame, his larger-than-life personality surely did. Harry runs New York, at least in his mind.

Note: Contains some mature language and video footage.

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In the Photo: Megan Blake, Super Smiley, Sparky Malarkey, Jimmy Van Patten.
Photo credit: Kim Swartz

• “Triple Threat Zoomie” for Best Dog Actor, Singer and Animal Advocate - Super Smiley for his award winning “Dogumentaries,” and for “The Super Smiley Flash Mob 4 Pet Adoption” National Tour and his Award Winning radio-show “A Super Smiley Adventure” on Pet Life Radio.  Smiley’s person is Megan Blake, The Pet Lifestyle Coach™.  For more on Smiley, see  SmileyTheDog.com
• Gold Zoomie for Best TV Dog - Hallmark Channel’s skate boarding dog, Tillman, star of “Who Let The Dog’s Out.” Tillman’s Award was accepted by Jimmy Van Patten of Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance dog food, Tillman’s sponsor.
• Best Spokes-Dog Zoomie –  Sparky Malarkey - Smiley’s BFF and wing man,

If you are going to be in or near Los Angeles this weekend, make time to celebrate the opening of Zoom Room Sherman Oaks, this Saturday, February 16, 2013, from 6 PM – Midnight

There will be many celebrities in attendance, in addition to actor Jack McGee who is hosting the Zoom Room Sherman Oaks Grand Opening Celebration. There will also be a “green carpet”, so your pups can also feel like celebrities.

There will be plenty of food, fun, a raffle, and a silent auction. The grand prize raffle is a crate from EZ Transporter valued at $700. This crate folds up to the size of a briefcase!
Proceeds from the event benefit a wonderful charity – Strangest Angels Animal Rescue.

In addition to some surprises that are still “To Be Determined”, the event will also feature:

More details on Zoom Room Sherman Oaks, L.A. Grand Opening Celebration

What exactly is the Zoom Room?  It is a unique place for you and your dog. It is part training gym and part social club – for dogs and their owners. Their motto is “We don’t train dogs. We train the people who love them.”

The Zoom Room franchise was founded by top dog trainer Jaime Van Wye in 2007, with the objective of providing urban dogs with a dedicated indoor space to train, socialize and shop. There are currently over 20 locations throughout the country, offering puppy training, dog obedience, tricks training, therapy dog training and a custom-designed agility course.

Other Los Angeles and California locations include:

• Hollywood
• Campbell
• Claremont
• Culver City
• Encinitas
• Huntington Beach
• Monterey Bay
• Walnut Creek
• Belmont

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Well – have you ever considered starting your own dog/pet business? Something like dog sitting, dog walking, or dog grooming services? It applies to cats just as well.

Even if you have, chances are that like a lot of dog-lovers, you feel that you don’t know how to start, run, or market such a business.

Over the New Years break, I researched several books that claimed to help/teach you how to succeed at your own pet sitting/walking/grooming business. Whether you just need a little extra income or want to quit your 9-5 job to work with the animals you love, Pet Sitting Profits is the best in its price range. It takes you step by step through the process, with simple language and clear diagrams.
 

I could go on and on about it, but you can go directly to its sales page. Better yet, check out our sales page first – and see the FREE bonuses we are giving away to anyone who orders via this site.

Take a few minutes to check it out. In a very short amount of time, you could be on your own and Profiting from your Passion!

The post Love Dogs? Want to Earn Extra Income? appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

Click here to see the 10 most popular dog breeds in the U.S. for 2012.

More Information on Different Dog Breed Briefs
 

 

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The American Kennel Club has published its annual list of most popular dog breeds in the U.S., based on registration data and postal zip codes. Here is the data for 2012, shown side by side with that for 2011. Do these results surprise you?

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That’s okay! New puppy owners should not have to go to such lengths just to teach their pups the basics. But like all unknown territories , it is quite easy for novice puppy owners to find lots of ways to mess up simple puppy training,especially when it comes to the process of housetraining.

But you do not have to be one of these novices. To help guide your way towards proper housetraining with your new puppy, below are a few common training mistakes that many people make, and which you should try to avoid:

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The Burbank City Council voted 4-1 to give initial approval to the ban that would cover the retail sale of dogs and cats. If/when finalized, the law will provide for a 6-month transition period to allow pet store owners to make the necessary adjustments.

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Check out the following popular claims about housetraining your dog and find out whether they are actually true or false. You can find a lot more useful information in these dog training books

If Your Dog Rolls Over On Her Back & Squirts Pee Then She Needs Housetraining

This is false. A dog that pees while she’s on her back doesn’t have housetraining issues. Instead, she’s extremely polite and/or a little bit scared. This type of behavior is called submissive urination and it occurs when a dog is showing respect or deference to another dog or person.

If your dog greets you in this manner, adjust your body language to be a little less intimidating: Ignore her for a minute or two when you first come home, don’t look directly at her and crouch down on the floor so that you’re at her level when you touch her.

Club Soda Is Great For Cleaning Up Your Dog’s Bathroom Accidents

This is also false. Club soda may get rid of the stain from a little puddle or pile, but it won’t get rid of the odor. Unless you remove the odor with an enzymatic cleaner designed especially for this task, your dog almost certainly will return to the scene of her crime and perform an encore.

Don’t use ammonia either. To your dog it will smell like urine, which is an open invitation for him to come back to the spot he anointed before and do it again.

It’s Better To Buy An Adult-Sized Crate For Your Puppy

False. A crate that is too big will encourage your puppy to sleep at one end and eliminate in the other. Still, buying a crate for each state of your puppy’s growth can be expensive. To save money and prevent in-crate accidents, choose an adult-sized metal crate that comes with a divider. The divider will keep your puppy from using the entire crate and can be adjusted as she grows.

If Your Puppy Has An Accident, The Best Action Is To Clean It Up & NOT Scold Her

True! Scolding or punishing your puppy won’t help her learn the bathroom basics. That’s because she won’t remember that she’s the cause of the little puddle or pile that’s got you so upset. Clean it up without comment, and promise yourself that you’ll keep a closer eye on your dog.

Crates Are Cruel & They Do Not Help With Housetraining

This idea is false. A properly used crate isn’t cruel at all and makes the housetraining process much easier. Crates appeal to dogs’ instinctive desire to have a snug, secure den to call their own. Your dog’s desire to refrain from dirtying that den will help her develop the physical control she needs to become reliably housetrained.

Find the best dog training books at Amazon

You Can Consider Your 6-Month-Old Puppy Housetrained If She Hasn’t Had An Accident In 30 Days Or So

This is true. Housetraining takes some time, but you can consider the process complete if your dog is at least 6 months of age and has been free of an accident for at least a month.

Younger dogs (younger than 6 months) don’t have the physical capacity to hold their poop and pee dependably – and a dog of any age that keeps having accidents really can’t be considered fully housetrained.

Your Dog Will Always Let You Know When He Needs To Go Potty Outdoors

False – at least not for a while…

Most dogs take awhile to figure out how to tell their people that they need a bathroom break – and some dogs never learn how to get such a message across. But even if your dog doesn’t come and tell you she needs to “do the doo”, you can watch her for signals that a bathroom event may be imminent. Intense sniffing, pacing and circling all may indicate that a doggie doo is on the way.

Dogs Will Pee & Poop Inside Of The House Just To Spite You

False. While this may seem to be the issue, as it’s hard for some owners to handle housetraining, this claim is also false. Dogs are not vengeful creatures. They eliminate in the house for one of three reasons: They’re sick, they’ve had to wait too long for a bathroom break, or their owners haven’t housetrained them properly.

Housetraining Should Wait Until A Puppy Gets Used To Her New Home

False. While many dog training techniques should wait until your pup reaches a certain age, housetraining should start immediately upon the pup arriving at your home. A puppy of any age can start learning proper potty control. Teach her to enjoy her crate; feed her and take her out at regular intervals; and watch her carefully whenever she’s out of her crate. That said, she probably won’t be fully housetrained until she’s 6 months old or so.

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Are you more of a Do-It-Yourself type of person?
Then check out How to Make Dog Bed and Toys – All By Yourself!

This has got to be the most unique product of the year! At least it is for me, as someone who love making sandwiches and waffles for myself and who like making home-cooked meals and treats for my dog. The Sunbeam Gourmet Pets Dog Treat Maker comes with a book of recipes and is SO easy to use. If you know how to use a sandwich maker, you know how to use this machine as well. So have some fun and spoil your dog!

I saw this picture and I suddenly wanted to go take a nap – it looks so comfy! The K&H Lounge Sleeper Self-Warming Pet Bed is a self-warming bed that is perfect for any time of the year. It is soft, fluffy and inviting. Product features include:

* Self-warming material radiates heat back to your pet
* Self-warming material requires no electricity
* Non-slip bottom is practical on any surface
* Soft fill made from recycled plastic bottles
* Easy wash and care

When I first came across the Wisdom Panel Mixed Breed DNA Test Kit I was somewhat puzzled as to why someone would go through the expense and effort to analyze their mixed breed’s DNA. After investigating a little further, I realized that there were some very good reasons – beyond curiosity. This simple to use test kit can provide you with knowledge of the breed mix, including physical and behavioral traits, so that you can develop a more targeted care plan for your dog.

Looking for something else? Click on the images below or browse Amazon Dog Gifts

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They are now down to the 5 finalists, two of which will aired during the Super Bowl broadcast next Sunday (Feb 3, 2013). One will be selected by voters via Facebook and one will be selected by the Doritos marketing team.

My favorite video,entitled “Road Chip”, stars a Chihuahua mix named “Yoda” who lives with his owners in Burbank, Los Angeles

Watch the video below, then learn more about the filmmakers, cast, and crew at www.doritosroadchip.com. You can vote every day, through January 29, 2013. You can vote once per day on desktop and once per day on mobile/tablet.

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Last year the Pedigree dog food company, the world’s largest dog food brand, embarked (no pun intended…) on its Feeding Project. This project is dedicated to to impact dogs’ lives in communities with a very high number of homeless dogs. In 2012, the communities selected to be supported were Nashville and Chicago.

More than 40,000 shelter dogs are already receiving receiving high quality dog food,making them happier and healthier dogs. The money that the shelters save by not having to pay to provide good food for their dogs allows them to spend more money on adoption programs to help find permanent homes for their sheltered dogs. According to a news release, shelters in Chicago and Nashville were able to save anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 a year, as a result of the support from PEDIGREE®.

First of all – hats off to PEDIGREE® for these support programs!

Hats off also to Grammy award-winning country superstar Miranda Lamber – a known dog lover and advocate.  Lamber has teamed up with Pedigree to promote this program.

Help us Nominate Los Angeles Dog Shelters

The Pedigree Feeding Project is now accepting nominations for the communities to be supported in 2013. Nominations will be accepted through February 28, 2013 and the five finalists will be announced in March 2013 by Miranda Lambert and PEDIGREE®.

The nomination form that you need to fill out is on Facebook at  PEDIGREE® Feeding Project

All  you need to do is fill in a few fields of information.  What is most important is to let PEDIGREE®  know what makes our dog/animal community special – so please submit stories of special dogs and share photos and videos.

This is an easy and powerful way to help support L.A. dog shelters!

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The LA Weekly reported a touching story about how three LAPD police officers rescued a dog in South Los Angeles.

www.facebook.com/RescuingPhilly

The officers gathered up the dog, named him Pilly after their sergeant, and drove him to a vet. At the vet’s office discovered that he had an embedded radio-frequency ID tag, by which they were able to identify and locate the dog’s owners. Imagine their shock when they contacted the owners and were told that they weren’t interested in the cost and hassles involved in treating the dog, whose leg was shattered and suffered two fractured ribs.

The police officers agreed to have the owners sign the dog over to them and decided to assume the responsibly of the dog’s treatment. The three cops turned to the Advanced Veterinary Care Center to treat and care for the dog and promised to work with them in terms of payment as the cops embarked on a campaign to raise the money necessary to cover all of the expenses.

There is also a Rescuing Philly Facebook page set up for Philly – be sure to read the About page for a first person account of the story.

Way to go LAPD!!!

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This developmental orthopedic disease happens when the hip socket is not well developed and the ball and socket of the hip joint just don’t fit together correctly. The muscles around the hip joint don’t develop as well as they should and the result is that there is much more stress on the joint than it can handle. This causes excess friction and destruction of the tissue, resulting in painful and often crippling arthritis.

Unfortunately, dogs don’t complain much and they can go along for years with this pain without really showing any symptoms until the arthritis is very far along.However, symptoms can start to appear as early as 4 months along and the sooner the better since early treatment can save heartache later on.

Symptoms of dog hip dysplasia include stiffness in the back legs, difficulty getting up, , not wanting to go upstairs or jump, and generally not wanting to run and play like usual. The only way to tell for sure is to get your Vet to take some x-rays, as well as to give your dog a physical exam to see if this is indeed what your dog is suffering from.

If caught early enough, surgery – called a triple pelvic ostectomy – often has a good outcome, particularly if it is performed before arthritis sets in. Once the joint has become arthritic, the chances for success are greatly reduced. In extreme cases, a total hip replacement usually works pretty well, although the surgery itself has some risks.

Canine hip dysplasia is passed on genetically. If a dog that has it is bred, there is a chance that some of the puppies will have this. If two dogs with hip dysplasia are bred together, that liklihood is greatly increased. Although most breeders make a good attempt to not breed dogs with dysphasia, this is easier said than done, because not all dogs show that they have it until they are rather old.

Since dog hip dysplasia is a genetic problem, buying your dog from a reputable breeder will give you some protection from it. Good breeders try to prevent the disease by not breeding dogs that have it. You can check the pedigree of your dog to see whether they have been certified with the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals. In addition, obesity as well as feeding your puppy a food that is over supplemented can add to the onset of this disease.

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Bringing Home a New Puppy – Don’ts

1. Don’t strike at your puppy, no matter how terrible his bevavior may be. All you will do is frighten the little guy and possibly injure him in the process. You have to keep in mind that he is a complete stranger to your home and your entire world. Remember that he has just been separated from his mother and as far as his little mind is concerned, you look nothing like her!  Refrain from ALL physical hitting.

2. Don’t leave any items around the house that you cherish. It may be an old saying, but it’s certainly true: Puppies eat EVERYTHING!  If you want to keep those new socks free from holes then put them up. Still haven’t quit that smoking habit of yours? Guess what? Your new puppy would love nothing more than to chew on those cigarettes that are lying around the house. And just because your new iPod cannot be torn up like an old sock, your new puppy will spend plenty of time trying to gnaw his way through it.

Save time and money by ordering dog supplies from Amazon Dog Supplies

3. Don’t allow every visitor that comes by the house to handle your puppy. In fact, you should even restrict some family members from handling the new puppy, at least for the first week or two. If too many human hands pick him up then he may become a nervous dog that could have negative socialization issues.

4. Don’t pick your new puppy up by his forelegs. Children are the first to commit this crime as they are not as careful with small dogs as adults are. A puppy’s legs are not strong enough for someone to lift him up by. When this happens you will hear your puppy shriek in pain. The injury may be so severe that his appetite is lost, he runs a fever, and grows listless. When this happens, be sure to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

5. Don’t leave any holes uncovered inside of the house. Like cats, puppies are insanely curious and would literally kill themselves if nobody was watching out for them.

6. Don’t leave any electrical wires where your new puppy can reach them. These little guys love to chew on wires if left out. There have been hundreds of stories of little dogs who died from electrocution simply because their owners neglected to puppy-proof the inside of the home.

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Jimmy Kimmel takes a look at how we in L.A. have (over?) reacted to this week’s cold spell.

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Whether this is the first puppy or the 20th puppy that you have ever brought home,  it  is important to take a few minutes to go back and review the basics. There is no shortage of  books, magazines, and Internet articles that discuss what to do when getting a new puppy. I want to just remind you of the basics - the simple little tips that many of us forget, even when we spend so much time reading and learning about dogs, dog training, health, nutrition etc.

Bringing Home a New Puppy – Do’s

1. Do shower your new puppy with lots of love and attention, especially when he is doing something “right”. Many new puppy owners wait until the dog has done something wrong before initiating some type of communication. Before you know it, the poor puppy only knows that you are nice sometimes but then yell at him for no reason at other times. By communicating with him properly, he will be able to decipher your actions and become more amiable at being trained.

2. Do provide your puppy with plenty of chew toys.You can make something from home or better yet, just take a stroll through your local pet store for some neat looking items that your puppy can chew on instead of your shoes!

3. Do arrange a comfortable, warm bed for your new puppy. If he will be sleeping outside then either build one yourself, or have built a solid weatherproof doghouse. Be sure that there is plenty of room inside and that the climate stays cozy for the pup.

4. Do watch over your puppy whenever he is around small children in the house. It hurts to say it, but hundreds of puppies are injured or even killed every year because of kids roughhousing when an adult is not around. Children do not have the understanding of how frail and vulnerable a new puppy is.

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5. Do provide a regular feeding schedule from the very first day your puppy arrives. For puppies that are under six months of age, 3 – 4 solid meals of balanced nutritional food will be perfect. Simply give him all of the food he can eat in 30 minutes. When that time limit is up, scoop up the leftovers and only leave out water until his next meal.

6. Do provide a regular bathroom schedule as well. Just like his feeding times are scheduled, you should be taking your puppy out to his bathroom spot during the same times each day. This is typically done right after each meal and then every two to three hours in between. And don’t forget a late-night trip to the bathroom area. Your puppy will be sleeping for more than seven hours afterwards and if he wakes up with the urge to urinate in the house, he probably will.

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The key to making this experience more pleasant is to get your dog used to having his feet handled. Most dogs don’t care too much for this and if you can start when your dog is a puppy you’ll have a bit of an advantage. However, even older dogs can learn to love getting a little pedicure every so often.

Before you even get out the nail clippers, though, you’ll want to touch your dogs feet often. Just a little touch at first. If your dog pulls away, don’t push it but keep it up, by touching his feet often throughout the day. Eventually he’ll get used to it and you can proceed to holding his paws for longer and longer. Once this seems to be acceptable to him (this could take weeks or even months), it’s time to get the clippers out.

How do you know when it’s time to trim your dogs nails?

Your pets nails should just about touch the floor when he walks so if you hear clicking then the nails have grown too long and it’s time for a trim. This usually needs to be done every 4 to 6 weeks but if your dog does a lot of walking on hard surfaces like pavement and concrete you could go longer as the surfaces themselves will help wear down the nails – kind of like a natural nail file!

When trimming your dogs nails the big thing to watch out for is that you don’t cut into the quick. This is in the middle of your pets nail and contains nerves and blood vessels so it can really hurt if you cut into it or even too close to it. Depending on your dogs nails, you might be able to hold them up to the light and actually see the darker vein of the quick in the middle.

Start by trimming a little off the end, then a bit more until you see pink in the nail or feel like you might be close to the quick. On dark nails, it’s pretty much impossible to tell so you’ll have to just cut enough to trim down the nail or else you will risk cutting the quick. The edges of the nail might be a bit jagged after this so go ahead and file them down until they are smooth or they might end up catching on something.

You might want to have some styptic powder handy in case you do cut into the quick and hold this on the nail to stop the bleeding.

Find the best nail trimmers for your dog at Amazon

How To Cut Your Dog’s Nails by petside

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According to the announcement on the PETA website, the reasons for the selection of L.A. as the city of the year included:

Los Angeles certainly seems to be setting the pace for major U.S. cities!!!

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This is both a really fun and a really impressive video! Of course, the dog starring in the video is not just any dog. He is Tillman, the 7 year old surfing and skate-boarding Bulldog from Oxnard, California.

Watch him as he surfs the waves, snowboards the mountains, and skateboards the cement – all to the music of the Beach Boys “Surfin’ USA”

Tillman’s athletic abilities and training have earned him quite a bit of fame in the form of TV appearances and live performances – including this year’s Tournament of Roses Rose Parade.

I wish I could do some of the stuff he does – don’t you?!  

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Watch this fascinating and moving live video of how Eldad, together with members of the Los Angeles community work together to rescue this dog last month. It is an inspiring video which portrays commitment and creativity – only one of many such dog rescue stories in Los Angeles.

You probably want to watch it in full-screen mode…

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Not surprisingly, Miley Cyrus made the announcement of her latest rescue puppy, Bean (a chihuahua mix), on Twitter:

Meet Bean ❤❤❤@spotrescuedogs twitter.com/MileyCyrus/sta…

— Miley Ray Cyrus (@MileyCyrus) January 3, 2013

Bean is a little girl she is a chihuahua mix of some type she brought so much sunshine!!!

— Miley Ray Cyrus (@MileyCyrus) January 3, 2013

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Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.

Included among the 17 different dog breeds you’ll see here are:

• Dogue de Bordeaux
• Saint Bernard
• Newfoundland
• Great Dane
• Irish Wolfhound (World’s tallest dog)
• Bullmastiff
• Rottweiler
• Neapolitan Mastiff

Note:You may want to mute the audio after a bit…

Want to learn more about different breeds of dogs?
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There is less than half a day left to December 2012, and it looks like the city of Los Angeles has achieved its goal of December being a “no-kill” month. It will make this the first time ever that the Los Angeles animal shelter system – consisting of six animal shelters – did not euthanize any healthy or treatable animals in an entire month. This is quite an achievement considering that the Department of Animal Services shelters take in thousands of dogs and cats every month.

It was also not easy or quick in the making. It has been over 10 years since animal activists targeted Los Angeles for the excessive number of animals that were euthanized every year. At the time, former L.A. Mayor James Hahn vowed that within five years Los Angeles would stop killing unwanted pets. It took twice that amount of time, but it is still a huge accomplishment.

Big kudos go to:

Way to go Los Angeles!!! Now we just need to do this every month…

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1. Dog Humor Calendar
2. Wall Calendar
3. Page-A-Day Calendar

Dog Humor Calendar

If I had a to come up with a shorter name for this calendar I would call it the “Laugh a Day Calendar For Dog Lovers” instead of its official name of Dog Cartoon-a-Day 2013 Calendar: A Year of Unleashed Canine Comedy. Each page of this daily calendar has another hilarious cartoon featuring dogs in one way or another. It reminds a bit of the Dilbert Day-to-Day Calendar that my geek friends (OK, and me too) enjoy so much. They are so funny, you are going to run through the whole year’s pages just for the laughs!

Wall Calendar

My choice for the best 2013 wall calendar is the What Dogs Teach Us 2013 Wall Calendar. I really liked the combination of beautiful photographs combined with inspirational messages/lessons we can learn from man’s best friend. There is also plenty of room in the boxes for each day in the monthly grid to write in appointments, occasions, and other reminders.

Page-A-Day Calendar

The 365 Dogs 2013 Page-A-Day Calendar is both educational and sure to bring a smile to your face as you turn to a new page every day. Fun pictures accompanied by descriptions, tips, and trivia about your favorite dog breeds – and some more unusual breeds that you may not be familiar with.

Click here to browse all   2013 Dog Calendars at Amazon

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According to People magazine, the Hollywood stars adopted a 2-year-old golden retriever at a Los Angeles dog rescue last week.

According to a People magazine source:

She was one of the dogs they first saw, but they weren’t sure. They left and they couldn’t stop thinking about her, so they came back for her. And it’s true love.

Although the couple brought the dog home as a foster pet on Saturday, they officially adopted her on Christmas Eve and named her Ren. The purebred dog came from a high-kill Downey, California, shelter where she was surrendered by her previous owner.

Great going guys!

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This dog adoption event will feature great dogs from the LA County Baldwin Park animal shelter. For many of these dogs, this event will be the only chance they have to make it out of the shelter and to be adopted into a permanent loving home. All of the animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and ready to go home with you from the event.

Pick out a new friend – and save a life!

Here are the details of the Los Angeles dog adoption event:

Where: Pan Pacific Park- 7600 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 (the small field at the corner of Beverly Blvd. and Gardner St.)
Date: Sunday, January 27, 2013
Time: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Volunteers are need to help with the organization on the day of the event. See the event page for details or contact sarahpg@animaladvocatesalliance.org

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So, just what is a good diet for overweight dogs?

Obviously, you want to feed your pet a nutrient rich food, but if he is already overweight you have to also feed him one that is low in fat and has reduced calories. When it comes to extra pounds, one of the most important things is portion control, so you want to make sure to feed your dog the correct amount for his size. Chances are, if your pet is overweight, you have been feeding him too much until now. To help get started, take a look at our free book Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes.

While everyone likes to give their dog treats, you need to really control them when Fido is on a diet. Also – stay away from “people” food unless your dog likes fruits or vegetables. Shop for some “diet” dog treats your pet likes but limit the treat giving for only special occasions. If your dog is used to getting a treat at a certain time, try feeding him a bit less and using some of his food as a treat, that way he won’t be eating any extra calories.

A good diet for overweight dogs consists of regular feedings. You’ve probably heard that it’s better for overweight people to eat several small meals a day – well this might not be such a bad idea for your dog either. You want to split his food into at least 2 meals and don’t leave uneaten food out after your dog is finished eating.

I previously mentioned portion control. Before you can figure out how much your dog should be eating on his new diet, you need to figure out how much you give him now. So, feed him as your regularly do, except measure the amount you give him. You can use a regular measuring cup and you really only need to do this for 1 or 2 days to get the amount he is eating now. Then simply, feed him 25% less than you already do. Once your dog has lost some weight and seems to “plateau”, then reduce the food amount by another 25%. Keep doing this until your dog reaches his goal weight.

There are many commercial dog foods that you can buy at the grocery store – or order online and have delivered to your doorstep – that are adequate for a diet for overweight dogs, but you may want to talk to your veterinarian to find out what is best for your particular situation. Depending on how much extra weight your dog has and other health issues, an off the shelf food may not be best. Sure, it might cost a bit more to get a specialized food, but the health of your dog is worth it!

Here are two options of dog food that are specially formulated for overweight dogs and can be ordered from Amazon (click on the images to see details):

Some people prefer to try and cook their own dog food for their pets. With a little bit of effort on your part, you could easily improve your dog’s health and save yourself some money compared to buying commercial dog food. It is a classic time-money trade-off, that everyone needs top decide for themselves. It is easy and fun to cook make healthy home-cooked meals and snacks for your dog. A great way to get started with that is with our free book “Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes” which you get when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter at the top of this page or at the bottom of this post.

If you do give it a try, please leave a comment to let us know what you think.

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Although one ear mite is not that noticeable, they do multiply like crazy. If your dog has one, he probably has dozens, maybe even hundreds. Although the ear mites themselves are white, the presence of them leaves a black discharge in the ear that looks almost like dirt. As you can imagine, they make your pets ears rather itchy so if you see him shaking or scratching his ears then take him to a vet to see if the cause is ear mites.

Ear mites are extremely contagious. Don’t worry, though, you can’t catch them from your dog – but your other pets can. If you have multiple pets and one gets ear mites, you’d best have them all checked out.

Ear mites have rather a sheltered existence living their whole life on one dog. While they usually stick around inside the ear, they can sometimes spread to the surrounding skin and even take up residence as far away as the feet and tail.

Luckily, ear mites in dogs are easily treated. Once you suspect your dog has them, get him to the vet. It’s important that your veterinarian diagnose the problem since there are other ear problems that can cause the same symptoms. Once the ear mite diagnosis is made, then a few simple steps are taken to eradicate them.

The first thing your vet will do is flush out the ear canal. This is critical, since it gets rid of the buildup (called exudate) and if this is not removed then medications used to treat the mites probably will not work. Needless to say, it’s best if you don’t try flushing your dogs ears at home – best to bring him to the vet for this.

The next step can be done at home and consists of medicated ear drops that will kill the mites. These are usually put in the ears once or twice a day. The drops contain an insecticide (usually pyrethrin) which kills the mites. Treatment might continue anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on the particular medication your vet has prescribed.

Ear mites in dogs are common and easily treated – however, they can become serious if left untreated. If you suspect your dog has ear mites, then please check with your vet as soon as possible to insure that this problem does not get out of control.

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The stores that sign the HSUS pledge receive a placard proclaiming, “We love puppies; that’s why we don’t sell them,” to display in the store. The HSUS encourages pet owners to purchase pet supplies at stores that display the sign. The actions of these pet supply retailers proves that it is not necessary to support the cruel puppy mill trade in order to operate a lucrative pet business.

This comes on the heels of the decision of the Los Angeles City Council at the end of October to ban sales of animals from commercial breeders in pet stores. That law, however, does not go into effect for another 4 months.

The complete list of Los Angeles pet stores that signed the pledge is on the HSUS web site.

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You can strap on rollerblades, put your dog in a harness and pick up the pace as you go. This should be a fun experience for both of you. Your dog will enjoy running alongside of you and will also appreciate the extra exercise. Of course, you will also feel much better! It is certainly something different if you have not tried it before.

However, there are some precautions you should take before starting out on this fun activity:

There is also some minimal equipment you need to take with you:

So – Can you go rollerblading with your dog? You definitely can – and it is a lot of fun!

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• The response that your dog may have to specific types of sounds
• The breed and size of your dog
• The style and type of toy that your dog prefers playing with the most
• The age of your dog

Squeaky toys are a very popular type of dog toys that can be a great treat that most dogs enjoy. However, before buying this type of item you will want to pay special attention to how your dog responds to the noises that these toys make. The general response to squeaky noises that come from a wide assortment of dog toys will generally arouse a dog’s curiosity and provide hours of fun playtime. There are some dogs however that show nothing but fear of toys like this.

The size and particular breed of your dog is also an important factor. It can be very hazardous to offer larger sized dogs small toys because they are often too easy for these dogs to swallow. When smaller breeds are offered toys that are much too large for them they will typically become frustrated and bored very quickly. To ensure your pet is able to get a lot of playtime, excitement, and exercise from the toys you provide, make sure they are appropriate to his size.

Just as every dog is different, so are the specific preferences that many of them have. While it may be easy to grab one dog’s attention with a simple rubber ball, other dogs prefer to play with soft plush colorful toys. Pay attention to the habits of your pet and select dog toys that fit his individual likes and personality.

The age of a dog is another important factor that should be considered when dog toys are purchased. It is common knowledge that many varieties of chew toys are usually a great toy for a puppy or young dog. However, older dogs do not have the strong need to constantly chew like a puppy does. Toys that add a little more complexity into the mix are often a good idea for older dogs. This will help to promote exercise that is so important for older dogs and they are not nearly as likely to be sniffed and forgotten as a simple chew toy might be.

When you buy a new toy for your dogyou might want to think about putting one or two of his old toys up for a while and then rotating them every now and again. This will keep them from becoming old and boring to your pet. When you give it back to him, he will feel as if he’s getting a brand new toy all over again.

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For the past 10 years, the policy has been to prohibit behavioral testing for animals in shelters. The current proposal would overturn that policy and  replace it with  participation in the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ (ASPCA) Safety Assessment For Evaluating Rehoming (SAFER) program. This program is described  as “an aggression assessment designed to assess the probability of future aggression in dogs age six months and older,”  and “is intended to be one tool used to help identify the risk of future aggression and the individual behavioral support needed before adoption for each dog in a shelter.”

It comes as no surprise that the proposal has triggered emotions on both sides of the proposal.

Almost half of the shelter dogs in Los Angeles are pit bulls – their reputation for aggressive, and often times dangerous, behavior tends to negatively impact their chances of being adopted.

What do you think?  Are you for or against temperament testing of shelter dogs?
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I want you all to meet my new little baby girl @hannahspears <3 How cute is she?!?! twitter.com/britneyspears/…

— Britney Spears (@britneyspears) November 26, 2012

Beyond Britney’s grand the announcement, Hannah the dog has her own twitter account @hannahspears With over 25,000 followers at the time of this writing, she already has more followers than I do…

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Causes

There are actually a few different reasons that a dog may begin to show the signs that they have canine arthritis. These are the most common ones:

• The joints of obese dogs feel stress due to an excessive amount of weight and they tend to be at higher risk for acquiring canine arthritis
• Traumatic injuries that have been suffered tend to cause problems with canine arthritis later on down the road
• Although it is most common in older dogs., canine arthritis can actually occur in any dog no matter what their age might be. This is especially true if there has been issues with the proper development of the bones.

Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms that a pet owner will usually notice with this condition is that the dog will usually begin to limp or favor the specific joint that has been affected. Swollen joints are another big sign that there may be a need to have your pet checked out by your family veterinarian. Dogs that are suffering the discomfort that this condition can cause typically experience so much pain that they lose their interest in playing around, jumping, and sometimes even walking. If the discomfort they feel is severe, they may also feel uncomfortable when they are just touched.

When a veterinarian needs to diagnose a condition like this, there are several tests that they may want to conduct. They will also take a few other factors into account before making the diagnosis, like the dog’s past medical history and the particular symptoms they have. The vet will closely examine the dog’s joints that are affected and x-rays will also be taken. These make it possible for the veterinarian to see any kinds of changes within the joints that may have occurred due to the arthritis. Extraction of some of the fluid within the joints may also be necessary for an adequate diagnosis.

Treatments

In a majority of cases canine arthritis can be effectively treated by using various anti-inflammatory medications. In the event the arthritis has flared up because of a specific type of injury, surgical procedures may be required to correct any damage that has occurred to the joint ligaments. Obesity will also need to be addressed if it is determined to be the problem that has caused the canine arthritis.

There are a few things that all pet owners can do to help ensure their pet never suffers from canine arthritis. Just as with humans, dogs also need an adequate amount of exercise to stay healthy and strong. A proper diet is also a huge factor that can go a long ways towards prevention. The book Pet Lover’s Guide to Canine Arthritis and Joint Problems, 1eoffers more information.

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In order to raise awareness and encourage adoption of their rescued dogs, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Auckland (New Zealand) has undertaken quite a fantastic project. In order to highlight just how smart rescue dogs are and how they can be trained for many different things, they decided to teach three of their dogs how to drive.

Working with special animal trainers, they undertook a vigorous and challenging program to train 3 dogs of different breeds to drive a car.  Although the project proved to be somewhat more challenging than expected – the results were extremely successful and impressive.

Here are 2 short videos showing parts of the training process and their ultimate success.  As impressive as it is, I think that I would still prefer to give the car to my teenage kids…

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In fact, after reading through the following guidelines that should be taken before boarding your dog on a plane, you will realize just how important is.

Listen To Your Instincts In Regards To Your Dog’s Personality

Just because they are animals, it doesn’t mean that all dogs can easily cope with the experience of being locked up in a crate during an airplane ride. Every dog owner knows what his or her dog’s personality is like. Trust your gut instincts on whether or not you think your dog can handle the flight. If it doesn’t feel right, then your instincts are trying to tell you something about your dog’s separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is a real condition that should not be overlooked. It is estimated that almost 20% of all dogs suffer at some level from separation anxiety. These personality types make very poor candidates for airplane travel. Such dogs should not be left alone and when their condition reaches elevated levels, it is not uncommon for a dog to literally chew through a metal cage in the attempt of trying to escape, causing severe injuries that can cause the dog to bleed to death.

Minimize Anxiety By Preparing Your Dog For The Experience Of Flying

As mentioned above, it is never acceptable to force your dog to experience flying if he is deemed to have separation anxiety problems. However, there is always the possibility that you can condition him to fly without having any problems.

This can be accomplished by getting your dog accustomed to the travel carrierthat he will be flying in. Simply have one located in your house and keep your dog inside as often as possible. This can be done during meals, sleep time, and while driving around in the car. Eventually, he will be totally comfortable inside the crate and this will aid in making the dog feel more secure during the plane ride.

Save time and money by ordering airline approved dog carriersfrom Amazon

Yes, Your Dog May Get Lost When Accidentally Transferred To A Different Airplane

One of our previous tips for dog owners and air travel was to only select direct flights. Many times, passengers and their luggage may have to transfer to two or more different airplanes before reaching their final destination. It is during these times when some dogs become lost, never to be found again. They accidentally get transferred to the wrong airplane and never make it back to the owner.

To minimize the chances of your dog not making its way back to you, the best thing you can do is ensure proper identification. Have a permanent ID securely attached to your pet that has your phone number, home address, and any contact information about the place you are traveling to. Microchips and tattoos are also options that can be taken. They may seem extreme but when it comes to your dog and the possibility of him getting lost during air travel, it’s definitely worth it, wouldn’t you agree?

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Dogs that are more at risk of developing separation anxiety are those rescued from shelters, were living on the streets, or were locked inside a crate or kennel most of their lives. And because this behavior only occurs when the dog is left alone, there’s really nothing you can do to stop him from destroying your home or irritating the neighbors every time you leave the house. However, you can teach your dog not to be scared or panic during your absence.

Here are 6 easy tactics that can help reduce your dog’s separation anxiety:

1. Do not make the act of leaving the house a big deal and do not feel guilty about it. Ignore your dog for about ten minutes before you leave the house, and then another ten minutes upon returning home. This eliminates the excitement of you going away and coming back.
2. Some dogs feel comfortable being confined to a small space such as a crate or a small gated area of the house, while others feel comfortable safely out in the backyard. If your dog starts to feel agitated when crated, take him out and do not try to force him because it can only make matters worse.
3. In some cases, confining your dog to a small area where he has viewing access to the outside world is enough to make him feel comfortable and eliminate separation anxiety. You can place his crate or bed in front of a sliding glass door or a clear window.

 
Save time and money by ordering dog supplies from Amazon Dog Supplies

4. Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety because of boredom. Find a job that your dog can do. Teach him how to play “Find it” – a game that he can play by himself. To play this game, you must hide his favorite bones or stuffed treats where he can find them. To keep him busy, use three or five bones or treats (depending on how long you’ll be gone).
5. Another way to fight boredom is to provide your dog with plenty of toys. Rotate the toys so he will not get tired of playing with them. Playing, chewing, chasing, and hunting for his toys or treats has the power to cause your dog utilize his natural canine instincts while keeping him occupied for hours.
6. Leave the television on or play a soft, relaxing music. Researches have shown that soft, classical music relaxes dogs. Pick something that you also listen to when you are at home, so that your pet doesn’t associate the music with your absence.

 
By being aware of your dog’s separation anxiety and applying these practical tips, you should be able to reduce, and eventually eliminate, the separation anxiety your dog experiences when you leave the house.

Want to learn more? Order Don’t Leave Me! Step-by-Step Help for Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety by clicking the button shown on the right. Or see the details of the book by clicking the image on the right.

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In honor of her activities and in honor of the spcaLA’s 135th birthday, spcaLA is sponsoring an auction to ”Win a date with Betty White” on its eBay page.

Here is the announcement on the spcaLA web site:

Even though she is about to turn 91 in January, I have no doubt that an evening with Betty White will be fascinating, vibrant, and lots of fun. The bidding starts today, December 3 2012, and will close on December 10, 2012. See the eBay Betty White auction page for details.

Betty White is a life-long animal lover – hear her describe it in her own words:

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The post Date Betty White – Save the Animals appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

The answer is… possibly, as long as the dogs get along well.

First though, you must leash train each dog individually. Walking two dogs with two leashes can quickly become a tangled mess, not to mention a trip hazard for the owner trying to walk down the sidewalk. When each dog is walking reliably on a loose leash on their own, they can then be trained to walk together.

Walking two dogs can be accomplished in more than one way. You can continue using separate leashes,which allows the dogs more freedom to sniff and move about. Or, you can train them on a coupler, which is two short leads that snap to each collar, with a ring in the middle that attaches the two leads to one leash.

Using a coupler is generally easier for the owner, but some dogs dislike couplers because being connected restricts each dog’s movement. Owners must also ensure that the smallest of the pair doesn’t just get dragged along if the larger dog decides to investigate something along the way.

There are a variety of Dog Leash Couplers available for purchase. Be sure to choose one with the appropriate strength and flexibility for the dogs that you are walking.

Introduce a coupler slowly, with initial walks going no more than a few feet. As the dogs become used to the feel of being connected, gradually lengthen your walks.

The same is true when using two leashes (instead of a coupler). Start by walking your dogs for a short distance to make sure they remember their leash manners and understand that the rules still apply to them as a pair. Assuming you have taught some basic commands, such as “sit” and “wait”, work on these with the dogs together before stepping out on a walk.

You may find some interesting developments upon walking two dogs at the same time. The “you must be talking to that other dog” syndrome is common. Even the most obedient dog commonly suffers from this malady.

Then there is the competitive nature that surfaces, causing normally mannered dogs to suddenly start pulling as both dogs strive to reach that interesting smell first. The correct training response is the same as it is for one dog, to stop dead in your tracks as soon as the leash goes taught.

Remember too that this can be a physical challenge – two dogs make up quite a force and not every dog walker can handle this situation without landing face down on the ground! If you don’t have the strength to control two dogs bent on a purpose, it might be safer to stick to one at a time.

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The post How To Walk 2 Dogs At The Same Time appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

Does this sound like you and your dog?  He is a sweet dog, eager to please, and enjoys being around you and your whole family. Perhaps you have had him since he was a puppy.

But lately, you notice that he’s become destructive around the house whenever he’s left alone, even for just a few hours. You come home and the house looks like it was hit by a tornado – papers scattered everywhere, the trash can was knocked down, and your clothes were chewed into shreds.

Your dog may be suffering from separation anxiety, a problem common with many puppies and dogs. Separation anxiety is a panic disorder exhibited by a dog in the absence of his owner. It is the fear of being left alone that results in unwanted, destructive behaviors.

Dogs are social creatures. As puppies it is natural for them to get dependent and attached to their mother and litter mates. This type of attachment is transferred on to you, his owner, when the puppy enters your life. This attachment results in distress whenever the dog is left alone in the house, which is the most common cause of separation anxiety.

Signs Of Separation Anxiety

Your dog is suffering from separation anxiety if he displays the following signs:

• Destructiveness
• Excessive crying, barking, howling, whining, house soiling, pacing
• Depression
• Self mutilation
• Excessive salivation
• Hyperactivity
• Scratching or chewing at walls, doors, windows, furniture, and other objects

Causes Of Separation Anxiety

There are many causes for separation anxiety in dogs. Some may have been developed with experiences they had before the dog ever became part of your family, such as loss or abandonment of previous owner.

Below are six common causes of separation anxiety in dogs:

1. A traumatic experience such as an injury, thunderstorm, or an alarm system going off that occurred while you were gone.
2. A loss or addition of a family member.
3. Premature separation from its mother and litter mates.
4. Having a new pet in the house and spending more time with that new pet and less time with him.
5. A sudden change in schedule, lifestyle, or environment.
6. Changes that occur in older dogs, both physiologically and mentally, that results from aging.

Note: Read the followup article that discusses 6 ways to address separation anxiety in dogs.

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The post Separation Anxiety Disorders In Dogs – Signs and Causes appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

Popular American actress, singer, and songwriter Miley Cyrus (A.K.A. Hannah Montana) turned 20 years old last Friday (Nov 23, 2012). Miley chose to celebrate her birthday in a very special and meaningful way – by supporting and promoting animal rescue programs in Los Angeles.

Miley, who is known for her support of animal rights and for dog rescue/adoption, chose to promote the local Los Angeles animal rescue organization Saving Spot! Rescue – a registered non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of dogs in permanent homes from high-kill shelters in the greater Los Angeles area.

Miley also chose to promote the Starkey Hearing Foundation – an organization which hopes to “bring understanding among people through hearing care by focusing on awareness, education, protection and treatment, so the world may hear.”

The ball got rolling with this tweet, about 10 days before her birthday:

For Miley Cyrus’ birthday we are hoping to raise 1,000 dollars for both @spotrescuedogs & @starkeyhearing RT to spread the word, links below

— Miley’s Bun (@Mileys_Bun) November 12, 2012

The request to donate and support these causes seemed to resonate well with her 10+ million followers on Twitter. As her birthday came to a close, Cyrus tweeted this:

Thank you to all my fans who donated to @starkeyhearing @spotrescuedogs for my birthday y’all topped it again best bday present by far!

— Miley Ray Cyrus (@MileyCyrus) November 23, 2012

Here are some pictures of Miley and her puppy shopping in Los Angeles at the Spot! Pet Boutique earlier this week.

Miley Cyrus received another special animal-related gift for her birthday. After mentioning how much she loves pigs during a recent appearance on the Ellen show,

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) sponsored a very special pig in honor of her birthday – Nora. Nora is a resident at Kindred Spirits Sanctuary in Florida, that gives refuge to many different kinds of animals who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. The card/certificate said that pig was being sponsored in hohor of Miley Cyrus “in recognition of her compassion for all animals as well as the kindness that she inspires.”

I hope that Miley will succeed in inspiring many other influential Hollywood stars to rescue dogs and support animal rights.

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The post Miley Cyrus Celebrates With Animal Rescue appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

These dog parks are like heaven to our pets. For those of you fortunate enough to have a dog park located near you, you undoubtedly understand how happy these dogs are when running around having fun with the rest of the animals. They get to roam off leash, meet and play with other friendly canines, and even make new friends.
 

It is almost as if dogs become somewhat human in terms of socialization when they get to be active at a dog park. Dogs get together in groups and form packs, like socialized “cliques” if you will, as people often do. You can even see the smile on their faces as they run from dog to dog meeting each other and forming friendships.

3 Tips For The Dog Owners

Considering how much fun taking your dog to a dog park can be, there are a few mistakes that some dog owners make when visiting these areas. People often forget to properly balance their dog’s emotional needs while visiting the park.

For more information and fun ideas, order Visiting the Dog Park: Having Fun, Staying Safe- available as a paperbook or in Kindle format.

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The post 3 Rules Every Dog Owner Should Know When Visiting The Local Dog Park appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.

We also need to be sure to take a few moments to think about how the Thanksgiving dinner will affect our dogs – assuming they are invited. All of the commotion of lots of additional people and noise – some of whom will be playful and some of whom will be annoying – can be difficult for dogs to deal with. It can make them very anxious or tense, so please keep that in mind.

More importantly, keep an eye out for your well meaning family and friends who want to share share of the delicious food with the family pets. Some foods can be extremely hazardous to dogs and other pets, so please be careful.

Here are links to 2 helpful articles on Do’s and Don’t of sharing Thanksgiving food with your dog:

15 Thanksgiving Foods You Can Feed Your Dog
10 Thanksgiving Foods Dangerous for Your Dog

 
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The post Is That Thanksgiving Food Safe For Your Dog? appeared first on Los Angeles Dogs.