Kids & Pets - Living Happy & Safe Together

Being involved in rescue for many years, it is astounding and sad when I see perfect and happy puppies/adult dogs surrendered because of one bad choice the pet made one day - they bit or nipped at a child. Although it's human nature to rid oneself of a "bad" thing in the home where you should feel most secure and safe, however, I question whether this is a fair determination to actually surrendering a pet solely on the grounds of one "nip".

I have personally heard every reason and excuse why a pet has landed itself in a shelter or rescue program and one, in particular, that really upsets me is when the owner reports that their dog has either became aggressive or has actually "nipped" their child and now has labeled that dog as a "biter". Certainly it is understandable that any parent should and want to protect their child(ren) from harm but the key underlying question is: why did that pet do that in the first place? Although some people may find that one "nip" is enough to surrender a pet, I always wonder if the pet is really getting a fair "shake" when a parent was actually not in the room to witness such an attack. I further speculate whether at any time, prior to the child being attacked, whether the owner spent any time with that pet to acclimate it with young children to begin with? So, the real question is -Is the child the actual victim or is the pet?

Now, it may be possible that some personality traits in certain breeds may have them susceptible of being "nippy"; however, I am a firm believer it's the way you care and handle your pet, especially right from the start. A responsible owner will not only provide a lot of love, but proper, continuous and positive training to ensure the pet respect all humans, big and small. Same goes for raising and teaching children that are around pets.

There is no question that when you mix young children and pets together, BOTH need to learn respect of one another. An animal is an animal and although not as intelligent as a human, a pet does know when to defend itself. Young children, specifically, can have a tendency to pull ears, tails, and even hit pets. A parent should never allow or easily dismiss this behavior. Because young children do not know what's right from wrong or consequences of their behavior until later in life, to a pet that may be tormented by such a child, is usually why and when a pet may "nip". Basically, it's a dog's way of saying "leave me alone - I don't want to be bothered". Because a dog can not voice their feelings, they will act out their feelings and it’s up to the owner to know and see the signs or signals of a pet feeling uncomfortable or threatened to avoid such conflicts or harm.

Since some owners do not see it this way and immediately want the pet out of the home, in reality, this is not the pet's fault all the time, but actually the owner's (or previous owner should you have just adopted a dog and have no history on it at all). Although many reliable shelters and rescues will disclose to adopting pet owners whether a dog has the ability and patience to live with a child, sometimes it's not. It's up to the current owner to frequently provide positive training sessions with their dog. Same goes for when a pet shows signs of aggressiveness toward other humans when people are around the pet's owner. Dogs may become jealous and/or territorial and when signs of this happen, it is highly suggested to consult with a trainer or behaviorist. Unfortunately, some owners who do not like this behavior may in fact, be reinforcing it unknowingly. Pets should be of sound mind when children are present or at the very least, supervised very closely.

Here are some behavioral tests and further suggestions to helping pets and children coincide together in a safe and happy manner, especially for expecting parents:

• If you have a pet that has been living with you first, start taking steps to have that pet get familiar with having things that a young child will do eventually. This includes putting your hands in the dog's food or water, on occasion, when the dog is eating to see if there is any food aggression issues. Same applies to when a dog has toys and treats near him/her.


• Teach your dog to play "nice". Do not reinforce any aggressive or playing behavior with the dog and his/her toys.


• While your dog is eating, pet your dog on the head, backside and pull gentle on the dog's tail or ears to see if there is any reaction to this. If the dog continues to eat without any issues, this is a good sign of being tolerant to you being in its space. Any growling or negative behavior should be consulted with a licensed trainer.


• Put your face near the pet like if you are giving kisses. Children have a tendency to do this unknowingly. Any signs of showing teeth or growling should be consulted with a licensed trainer.


• Do not reinforce that the dog "runs the house". When a dog feels superior over its owners and requires all your free attention, you may find it extremely difficult to have both baby and pet in the home since the baby will then require all your attention when it arrives. A dog should know when enough is enough. Make sure your pet knows your tone of commands and that you are the master of his/her domain.


• Get at eye level with your pet; laying on the floor, crawling on the floor, etc... See if your pet has any change of behavior such as a higher energy level, trying to knock you over, etc... Remember, your baby will be crawling on the floors that your pet walks about so get your pet accustomed to this.


• Make sure your pet knows how to take food out of your hands "gently". Unknowing toodlers and young children have a habit of walking around with their treats in their hand and handing them over to a pet. A dog with no manners or aggresive with food, may nip a child while trying to take the food out of the baby's hand.

If you feel uncomfortable with doing any of the "tests" suggested above, you may be at a level that you do not trust your pet. Just remember that a properly trained dog that is happy, content, well socialized and adjusted will certainly be accepting of a baby; it just up to you to then teach the child to respect and be nice to the pet.

Just consult with a licensed dog trainer to assist you with behavioral testing should any issues arise so a modification training plan can be given to ensure that your "four legged baby" starts to acclimate itself with a little two legged baby running around as well.

Dog Safety Tips

When owning a dog, they will become your best friend. Through thick and thin, they are always there for you; giving you unconditional love no matter what. However, as their owner, it's up to you to keep them from injuring themselves, digesting harmful things and just keeping them out of reach of things that can potentially be fatal to them. Here is a list of things to keep your pet safe all year round:

Aluminum Foil
When ingested, aluminum foil can cut a dog's intestines, causing internal bleeding, and in some cases, even death.

Anti-Freeze
If ingested, anti-freeze (ethylene glycol) is often lethal, even in very small quantities. Because many pets like its sweet taste, there are an enormous number of animal fatalities each year from animals licking or drinking anti-freeze. Poisoning from anti-freeze is considered a serious medical emergency which must be treated by a qualified veterinarian IMMEDIATELY.

Bloat
Bloat (gastric torsion & stomach distension) is a serious life-threatening emergency which must be treated by a qualified veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Bloat is relatively common among large and deep-chested breeds, such as Basset Hounds, Boxers, Dobermans, German Shepherds and Great Danes. Many experts believe that a feeding a large meal within 2 hours of exercise or severe stress may trigger this emergency. Eating quickly, changes in diet, and gas-producing foods may also contribute to this serious condition. Symptoms of bloat include: unsuccessful retching, pacing, panting, drooling, an enlarged stomach/torso, and/or signs of distress.

Chocolate
Chocolate contains an element which is toxic to dogs, called Theobromine. Even an ounce or two of chocolate can be lethal to a small dog (10 lbs. or less) or young puppies. Larger quantities of chocolate can poison or even kill a medium or large dog. Dark and unsweetened baking chocolates are especially dangerous because of the amount of cocoa that is in them. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include: vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, hyperactivity and seizures. During many holidays such as Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter and Halloween, chocolate is often accessible to curious dogs, and in some cases, people unwittingly poison their dogs by offering them chocolate as a treat. Should you suspect that your pet has eaten chocolate, please contact your local veterinarian IMMEDIATELY.

Corn Cobs
Many dogs have suffered and, in some cases, died after eating corn-on-the-cob, when the corn's cob caused partial or complete intestinal obstruction. Never allow your dog access to corn cobs.

Electrocution
Christmas tree lights and electrical cords can be fatal if chewed on by a pet. Whenever possible, keep electrical cords out of reach from pets, especially puppies who are always curious and willing to chew on anything.

Fireworks
Never unnecessarily expose your pet to firecracker noises or fireworks displays, as they can cause companion animals tremendous fear, and in many cases, long-term phobias. Make sure to keep dogs indoors, and keep walks (on a leash) very brief during times when firecrakers are often used.

Grapes, Raisins & Macadamia Nuts
These healthy tasting treats to us humans can be potentially poisonous to pets, especially in young or small breeds. If you would like to share a healthy and safe treat with your pet, stick with apples, bananas, carrots or celery. If you suspect your pet eating any grapes, raisins or nuts, please contact your local veterinarian IMMEDIATELY.

Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion
A dog's normal internal body temperature is between 100.5 degrees F and 103 degrees F. Leaving a dog in a parked car in the summer (even with the window a few inches open), can cause heatstroke within minutes. Heat exhaustion is usually caused by over-exercising a dog during hot weather. Both heatstroke and heat exhaustion can result in brain damage, heart failure or even death in a short period of time. To cool off an overheated dog, wet the dog's body and paws with cool water, then fan. If the dog experiences heatstroke or heat exhaustion, he should receive veterinary attention immediately.

Hypothermia
When a dog's internal thermometer drops below 96 degrees F from being exposed to cold temperature for long periods, there is a serious risk to the dog's safety. Small and short-haired dogs should wear sweaters or coats when taken for walks during cold winter weather. A good rule of thumb is if you walk outside without a coat or sweater and are immediately cold, your dog will be too. Therefore, help maintain your pet's internal temperature with some kind of outter protection. If you seen signs of your dog being cold, such as shivering, bring the dog indoors immediately.

Ice-Melting Chemicals and Salt
Ice-melting chemicals and salt placed across sidewalks and roads can cause severe burning to your dog's footpads. Whenever possible, avoid walking your dog through these substances, and wash off his footpads when you return home. There are also products available such as Musher's Secret which can be applied to your dog's footpads prior to going outside or having your dog wear dog boots to avoid their paw pads being exposed to such chemicals.

Plastic Food Wrap
Plastic food wrap can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Some dogs will eat the plastic wrapping when there are food remnants left coating its surface.

Poisonous Plants

Dogs can become extremely ill or even die from eating indoor and outdoor plants. Keep all indoor and unknown plant types away from your pet at all times. You may also spray plants with Bitter Apple that may help deter your pet from eating it.

Pools & Spas

To contrary belief that all dogs can swim - this is not necessarily true. Dogs (and puppies) that fall into pools & spas may accidently drown, especially if there is no steps close enough for that pet to get out safely. It is highly recommended, specially during boating adventures, that a pet near any body of water wears a life vest and be supervised at all times.

Tinsel and Other Christmas Tree Ornaments
When ingested by a dog, tinsel may cause obstruction of the intestines, and the broken pieces of ornaments with sharp edges can even cut the intestines. Symptoms may include: decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, listlessless and weight loss. Treatment usually requires surgery.

Collars
Remove your dog's training collars whenever left unsupervised or crated. Never tie your dog by attaching a leash or tether to your dog's training collar. Always use a flat buckle collar when tying your dog, and then only when supervised. Never leave your dog tied unsupervised in front of stores, restaurants or supermarkets, as they can be harrassed, poisoned or stolen.

Don't Make Your Pet a Front Seat Driver

We all seen and heard it; the media exposing Britney Spears about a year ago, allowing her infant to sit on her lap while driving through the streets of Los Angeles. As there is no doubt that her choice to do this was poor and very unsafe for her child, but it is illegal. So the question is to anyone that allows their pet to do the same; have you ever considered how you are potentially putting your pet also at risk when you allow your dog to be on your lap (or not secured somehow) while you are behind the wheel as well? In some states it's also illegal to have your pet on the driver's seat but although you may not be caught doing so, the consequences could be fatal should you ever be involved in a car accident.

Airbags deploys within approximately 15 to 30 milliseconds (pretty much at a blink of an eye) and is strictly designed to keep you from injuring yourself or putting you through the windshield of that car. At the force of deployment, a small puppy or dog that is in this area will be easily and majorily injured. This includes passengers holding a puppy in the front seat of a car.

When driving, whether you are the driver or passenger, it is highly recommended that you secure your pet, as you would do yourself. In today's market, many products are now designed to keep you pet safe while enjoying the opportunity of taking a drive with you. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Dog Car Seat - These are designed to not only keep your pet secure, but elevated, so your pet can enjoy looking out the window while minimizing motion sickness. They easily secure to your seat with the use of your car's seat belts. A built in safety strap is always included so you can then attach it to your dog's harness. Note: Never attach the safety strap to a dog's collar. Should you ever be involved in a car accident, the pulling force should come from the dog's chest area (strongest part), rather than the neck which can potentially break (especially on very small breeds and young puppies). Car seats are usually made for puppies or small breeds up to 30 lbs.


• Dog Car Harness - Comes complete with an adjustable web harness that attaches easily to virtually any seat belt with a universal seat belt clip. An adjustable strap keeps dogs safely contained while allowing them to sit, lie down, or stand comfortably. The harness adjusts at the neck and the chest for a more secure and comfortable fit. It’s made of strong, durable woven nylon with plastic quick-release buckles and heavy-duty hardware. Please note: This device does not work with some Saab and Volvo seat belts. Requires an adapter from Ford for use with Ford Explorers. Made for puppies to large breeds.

So the next time you are traveling with your pet, whether it's down the road or across country, secure your pet just like you do yourself to keep both of you safe. Although your pet may want to be as close to you as possible, you could be potentially saving his/her life should an accident happen.

Puppy Care Basics

Puppies are so cute and loveable, they can melt just about anyones heart. However, taking on the role of being a puppy parent can be a tough job. Remember, they are living, breathing creatures and it's your job to ensure they grow up healthy, happy and well socialized little animals.

First things first. When you purchase or adopt your puppy, make sure that puppy is over at least 7-8 weeks of age. If someone is trying to sell you a puppy 5-6 weeks of age, please reconsider the purchase of this puppy. Although this may be a hard thing to pass up, puppies gather some of the most vital and important socialization skills with their siblings and mother during this time. Also, in many states, it is illegal to sell a puppy under 7 weeks of age. Any so-called breeder selling a puppy so early in age, must be questioned as to whether they truly love their animals and well being of the puppies. For more information, please visit our other articles on Where to Find a Reputable Dog Breeder, or Buyer Beware - Where Not To Purchase a Puppy.

SLEEPY TIME

Puppies, like human infants, will have a tendency to sleep alot. They are growing creatures that require alot of sleep in order to develop properly. Crates provide a great place for puppies to nap and rest as they will soon realize it will be their "den". Just make sure to use either old blankets or towels inside a crate for a few months as accidents are prone to happen. Buying designer beds are not suggested unless they have removable covers for washing. Also, because puppies have a tendency to chew on everything during teething time, it is further suggested to use things that can be discarded without hesitation should they be ruined.

DIET & NUTRITION

Puppies require a well balanced, natural food to help their growing bodies mature. With all the different types of commerical dog foods on the market, it is up to you to research and determine how healthy you want to feed your growning puppy. Although more natural, holistic foods can tend to be a bit more expensive, it is worth every penny! Puppies that are fed a more natural diet have less chances of developing allergies and minor to major health problems when they start to mature. For more information on choosing the right food for your puppy, please visit our other article; Feeding Your Puppy "Right" From the Start.

VETERINARY CARE

When you purchase your puppy or adopt one from a local shelter or rescue, chances are that the puppy has already had a visit to a vet for their first series of shots and check up. However, request from the seller the medical history on the puppy, should one not be given. This list will include information such as the name of the veterinarian who administered the shots and what type of vaccinations where given. Also, it should be noted whether or not the puppy was fit for sale.

A common schedule of puppy vaccinations & treatments are as follows:

2 - 3 weeks old - Worming
6 - 8 weeks old - 1st DHLPP + Corona + Worming
11 - 12 weeks old - 2nd DHLPP + Corona
15 -16 weeks old - 3rd DHLPP + Corona
16+ weeks - Rabies

It's vitally important that your puppy get all the above shots to protect him or her from potentially fatal diseases. Do not skimp on any of the puppy's vaccinations. You may think that it's only one that is missed but missing one can be fatel. Distemper and Parvo are the #1 killers of puppies and therefore, critical for a puppy to be fully vaccinated according to schedule. Your choosen veterinarian will gladly explain this all to you once you make your first initial visit with him/her.

Should your puppy ever experience symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, dry hacking , restlessness and/or being lethargic, please visit your local vet immediately!

HOUSEBREAKING

There is no doubt about it - this is probably going to be one of the most trying phases of owning a puppy. Just keep consistant and stay patient! For successful tips and tricks to make housebreaking easier for you, please read our article "Puppy Housebreaking Tips".

PLAY TIME

Having toys for your puppy is necessary. They are not only fun to play with, but it will keep your puppy occupied and relieve any anxiety or stress, plus help with the tendency to chew on things when they are going through the "teething process".

With so many dog toys on the market, choose your puppy's toys carefully. Although some companies may market their toy as "fun", they can potentially not be as safe, especially when a puppy is left unsupervised.

Here are a few suggestions on choosing the right kind of dog toy for your puppy:

• Rubber Toys - These toys are great, especially for puppies since they are more durable. However, be careful of thin latex toys. These toys can be destroyed very easily and your puppy can swallow small rubber pieces. Kong toys, specifically, are especially fun and safe because they can relatively be chewed on without being destroyed. Also, you can further mentally stimulate your puppy's interest to this toy by placing treats inside. Another great alternative is smearing peanut butter inside this toy. Most puppies (and dogs) go crazy over peanut butter (and it's safe & healthy for them to eat too!)
• Rawhides - We are not big advocates of rawhides, nor suggest them. Although this was and still is a common "treat" for dogs, rawhides can be easily broken into large pieces and swallowed; potentially choking the puppy or these pieces being lodged in the intestines. Also, rawhides that are produced and made outside of the USA, (should you still decide to offer this to you puppy), is HIGHLY NOT SUGGESTED. Unfortunatley, the process of which rawhide is produced in other countries are not monitored closely and regulated for chemicals & additives. Look at the packaging!
• Natural Chews & Bones - There is a great selection of natural chews & bones you can give to your puppy or dog that will provide hours of enjoyment. As with any type of treat or toy, close supervision is always suggested but when choosing a chew (or bone), make sure they are produced in the USA. We highly suggest Merrick Dog Chews
• Plush Toys - Plush toys are great, especially when "squeakers" are inside. The noises they produce will certainly entertain your puppy or dog, however, if your puppy is not closely supervised or will be, it is not suggested for these to be given. All "soft toys" can easily be destroyed, thus enabling your puppy to choke or to get sick, should they swallow pieces. If you choose to give your puppy (or dog) plush toys, make sure to supervise them at all times.
• Edible Nylabones & Greenies - We are not keen in giving these toys/treats to puppies nor dogs. We have heard reports of these breaking off into large pieces and when swallowed, puppies (and dogs) were having a hard time digesting these properly.
• Hurleys & Hucks - These toys are simply indestructible and loved by many! Made from Zogoflex, an extremely pliable & one-of-a-kind material that is made in the USA, these toy are guaranteed to withstand the most powerful chewers and provide hours of enjoyment.
• Balls & Frisbees - Many puppies and adult dogs love these types of toys as they can be thrown and retrieved, especially in large backyards or parks.
• Rope Toys - These toys are also great for cleaning your puppy's and dog's teeth while providing hours of enjoyment. However, once the rope starts to fray, it is suggested to throw it out immediately.

Overall, use common sense with selecting dog toys and always supervise your pet when it's playing with them. Kongs, Hurley's and Huck's are best suggested while your puppy or dog is in a crate and can not be supervised.

BE A SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Once your puppy is up to date on all it's shots, start going out as a team to public places. A well socialized puppy will mature into a more well behaved pet. It is highly suggested to start your puppy in a "Puppy Kindergarden" or Social Class. This is where your puppy will enjoy approximately an hour of supervised playtime with other puppies and learning important social skills around other dogs. You may also enjoy finding a pet or specific breed meet up group in your local area! Visit Meetup.com and enter your zip code to see all the available types of meet up groups in your area that involve pets!

TRAINING CLASSES

Enrolling your puppy in a basic obedience training class is highly suggested. This is where you will learn important tips and tricks on helping your pet be a more well mannered animal in and outside of your home. Contact your local veterinarian for a referral should you not know where to go.

PUPPY LOVE!

This is probably the easiest part of taking care of a puppy. You just can't help to snuggle, play and rub that little soft belly! However, love is not just about playing and cuddling. Making sure that your puppy gets everything he/she needs to be safe, happy and healthy is the most important things to being a parent to a pet. Show your love by being a responsible puppy parent because the love you'll get back will be incredible.

Paws To The Rescue!

As we have reported of the fate of dogs that are placed in high kill shelters that are being euthanized by the thousands each day across the country, it's the determination of some special non-kill rescue organizations that truly make a difference, especially to everyone involved.

For the last few weeks, I have been personally volunteering a few hours of my time to a rescue organization called "Paws To The Rescue". Based in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, Paws To The Rescue pulls animals scheduled for euthanasia out of "kill shelters" and gets these pets into a temporary, but safe, foster or boarding facility until they can find other approved "non kill" rescue organizations to take over the task of housing and finding them a great home. Once it is determined what other rescue organizations will participate, Paws To The Rescue then provides the necessary vaccinations prior to the transport, and then finds volunteer drivers so they can coordinate the transportation route to the pet's final rescue organizaton.

The start of this rescue's transport (a.k.a. freedom train) usually begins in South Carolina where Paws To The Rescue is based out of. Between the help of many volunteers who live locally through the route of where the "freedom train" is passing through, each driver only drives for approximately one hour until they meet another transportation driver at a specific meet up location and then pass the dogs along to the next driver. This continues on until the final leg of the transport is at the doors of the rescue organization who will then provide all the necessary and additional care until those dogs are adopted.

So, on a leisurely Sunday afternoon when I get notice that the "freedom train" will be passing through my area, I graciously volunteer a few hours of my time (and gas) to this well organized rescue group. Driving approximately 3-4 dogs at a time, I meet up with the prior driver, take the dogs and then drive usally an hour north of me to another meet up location where I meet another volunteer. As easily as this is, nothing is more rewarding when you are taking part in helping an animal in need, no matter if it's only an hour. Having the opportunity to meet and give some needed love and deserved attention to these sweet souls during a quiet hour drive is just priceless.

If you live in the eastern states of South Carolina to upstate New York and would like more information on becoming a "freedom train" volunteer, please visit their Shelter Home Page or contact Jen Nall directly by email to get on her freedom train call out list. Another great rescue organization looking for volunteer drivers in the same areas is "Get Shelter Pets". You can contact Rhonda Sims by email as well.

Improve Your Dog's Health - Just The Way Nature Intended

Like in the wild, animals hunt and eat fresh foods. There is no adding of artifical flavors, processed ingredients or chemical preservatives which is commonly found in many traditional dry dog foods. Moreover, dogs are not intended to eat grains either but surprisingly, they are found in many dog foods as well. This includes corn, wheat, and oats. Grains are simply not biologically appropriate for our pets. They are only used as "cheap" fillers in the production process. The ingestion of grains and other starchy foods contribute to most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases (cancer, diabetes, etc..) that pets are suffering from commonly now a days. Domestic pets should be getting their carbohydrates in a similar manner as their wild ancestors did. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide a great source of carbohydrates in a more digestible format while fresh meats (either raw or cooked) provide the approprate protein sources, as with natural vitamins and minerals that an animal only needs.

Although the thought of your dog eating fresh, uncooked meat may be repulsive to you, you can always just take the ol' fashion approach....simply making homemade cooked meals for your pet. If that is not an option, here are two suggestions on getting your pet on a natural grain-free, fresh diet (and convenient, to boot!)

• Grandma Lucy's "True" Grain-Free Diet - A nutritionally balanced blend of USDA (cookied) chicken, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This grain free recipe has no fillers. It is packed with natural human grade ingredients and freeze dried for maximum freshness. Equally add the same amount of water to the size of food measured and let sit for 10 minutes to rehydrate. Contains: USDA Chicken, Potatoes, Flax, Carrots, Celery, Apples, Blueberry, Garlic, Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Niacin, Iron, Calcium, Phosphorous, Zinc, Riboflavin, Thiamin, Potassium, Manganese, Chloride, Copper, Magnesium. Also available in Lamb.
• The Honest Kitchen - Features 5 different raw receipes that feature no grains, low carbohydrates and no fillers. It is packed with natural human grade ingredients and freeze dried for maximum freshness.

Both products are sold in our retail location in Red Bank. For further information or to request a sample, please stop in our store!