Bringing Home Your New Puppy

So you want to bring home a puppy? Puppies can be a fun and enjoyable experience.  They are cute and cuddly, and it pains us all to see them grow up. Of course, many of us think this because the puppy isn't ours. HA! That cute and cuddly pup is also a little ball of destruction if you are NOT on your toes. Many do not realize the challenge of a puppy.  The exposure in the first 4 months of a puppy's life will mold and impact its entire life. Training and socializing are key to a happy, well-rounded, and stable pup.

Choosing the right puppy is the first step.  When you chose your pup, whether it's from a breeder or a rescue, take note of the activity and energy level.  At 8 weeks, pups are developing the beginning of their personalities, whether it be active, laid back, mischievous, or reserved.  You also need to know your breed traits as well.  Even in a mixed breed pup, the traits are in there, just watered down a bit. Base your selection on your family's activity level.  If you are a runner and very active, then an active pup is fine for you.  If you are a reserved and laid back family, you may not want to choose the most active, wild, and playful pup of the litter. He will require more exercise as he matures or your furniture and carpet may be a victim to his boredom.

Once you have decided on a pup, introduce him to his new family and household.  Decide where the pup will spend the majority of his puppyhood.  Will you crate train him or allow free roam in a designated area?  Many crate-train their puppy to assist with housebreaking.  Decide where the crate will be located, or if you will have multiple crates in the house.  I am a firm believer of a pack, so I tend to keep a crate near the bedrooms so the pup can bond with the family even during rest times.  Keeping a crate in a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle is wise as well.  Everyone needs a cave to withdraw to and have some privacy.  The pup will need to learn how to be on his own, to avoid separation anxiety, and this cave crate will provide that.  Make sure everyone is "okay" with the puppy.  He will need a lot of socializing with all family members, dogs and cats alike, if you want him to be well rounded.

Housebreaking and early training starts immediately. Puppies will eliminate frequently in the early stages. The more water they have, the more they will urinate. Regulate food and water intake on a schedule to help predict and train the puppy when to go.  Puppy pads are helpful in the colder seasons and then gradually moving the pads to outdoors to assist in housebreaking the pup. Training can start right away. Teaching the puppy his name and sit are the first and easiest. Start with that then work on impulse control, recalls, and other basic obedience.

Toys, Toys, toys and more toys, will help to save your furniture, shoes, and/important documents. Buy toys of different textures, but stay away from toys that resemble your important items.  No need to get him use to those fabrics or textures now. Puppies go thru a teething stage just as humans do, and will need so something to chew on to lessen the soreness of their gums.  Soft rubber toys and teething rings that you can freeze are always a good call.

Take the puppy everywhere you can. Get him use to different people of all ages, dogs of all breeds and sizes, cats, squirrels, locations, and noises.  One of the biggest problems BiTP works with is leash reactivity associated with other dogs or small animals, and anxiety based fear problems associated with loud noises or fast moving objects. Socializing is a huge must as a puppy, and key to stability as an adult.  You MUST expose them to as much as possible in these first months!

While there is a lot to remember and a lot of work to do with your puppy, they are still fun and the most enjoyable learning experience you can have.  Take lots of pictures because they grow up fast.  We offer a puppy obedience package, and will gladly be there to help introduce your pup to its new home, and guide you every step of the way if you need.  Feel free to contact us with questions and concerns with your new pup.  Enjoy him, they are pure happiness!

DJF

Dominance......A Thing of the Past?

Everyone knows of Cesar Millan and his charismatic dog-training show "The Dog Whisperer".  His training methods are not unknown to the dog-training world.  They have been practiced for decades and have been both successful and detrimental to owners and their pups.  Alpha Rolls, Submission, Negative Reinforcement, and Dominance are slowly becoming an undesirable method amongst trainers, veterinarians, and dog enthusiasts.

Studies have shown there are significant differences between domesticated dogs and wolves. The idea of "dominance" in a pack is much different than the way that we as humans have come to understand it. Leadership is a must, but fear based submission or forced submission are frowned upon. It has been shown that dogs work well as we do in a family environment, mother/father raise responsible adults, then the children leave and do the same.   It is not necessarily one man to rule with an iron fist. The dogs are provided with food and nurturing by their adults and learn to socialize with siblings and other young members of their pack (family).  It's a team building experience.  Though they do challenge respect as most human children do, they are not fighting for a top "alpha" spot.
My training techniques follow this same methodology. Owners need to understand the behavior of their dogs.  They need to ask themselves the questions, "What is it they need to satisfy them? What are they missing in their lives that causes these bad behaviors? What triggers these behaviors and how might we have contributed to it?"  Once we figure out the cues, the background, and the circumstances involved, we can make a plan specifically designed for your family (pack).  Most clients have dogs that are acting on their own because they are fending for themselves.  They are not provided with a stable family (pack) that fulfills its needs as a dog or breed.  Back in the Pack can help make you a family again!

A Perfect Goodbye

The circle of life can be a trying realization to us as our beloved pet ages. Once he stops eating or drinking, barely notices your presences, or fails to acknowledge his favorite treats or toys, it may be time to start considering letting him go. Many vets will make house calls for euthanasia, which can make the passing more comfortable for both owner and pet. Many of us hate the idea of losing our beloved on a cold metal table, and would prefer to have it in their pet's favorite bed or sleeping area.  There are always the details to consider once the time has come. Cremation or burial. My 
preferred choice is cremation. I would recommend private cremation which will help ensure you are left with your pet's remains only. Regardless of all the financial or administrative tasks that need to be dealt with in your pet's passing, the most difficult to deal with will be the emotional toll. 



There are many ways to help grieve your loss:

Create a scrapbook:
Anytime you feel you miss him, enjoy the memories in pictures reminding you of all the wonderful past times you shared. Eventually, only happy memories will remain, and your memories will become a comfort.

Plant a tree:

Each spring as it flourishes your memory of him continues to flourish, as no pet could ever be replaced. Your tree will become a spot for reflection. The time you spend tending and pruning your tree will ease your grief, and help fill that void of no longer caring for your companion.

Write a letter to your pet. Get all of your feelings out on paper, express what it feels like to lose him and to live on without him. Don't hold back. Anger, guilt, denial, and depression are common signs of grief, and no one can read these confessions but you.


Send a newspaper article or blog about your beloved. Share the memories with your loved ones and your support system. You may even find old pictures or stories long forgotten.

Ask for space and time to heal. Those who are not directly related may not feel the loss as you, many deal with loss differently. You will have loved ones urging you to move on or forward. Take your time.  

Pay it forward. You may be left with a basket of toys or products. Donate them to a local shelter or rescue, and aid another needy pup.

These are just ideas I have found to help those who are grieving the loss of their pet. It never gets easier as we age. We notice how precious life is, and how our pets are with us for such a short period of our human lives. It will be an emotional time for the owner, and any remaining pets in the family. Try to keep routines, feelings, walks and playtime as consistent as you can to avoid any major behavior problems with your remaining pets. They will grieve in their own way too. Allow them to do so. Once you are ready, and you will know, pursue a new family pet. Take your time, chose a pet that matches your lifestyle. It will be hard, but it will be worth it.

DJF

Hot Weather Tips for Your Pets

(Courtesy of the ASPCA) (ASPCA) -- We all love spending the long, sunny days of summer outdoors with our furry companions, but being over-eager in hot weather can spell danger, ASPCA experts warn.   "Most people love to spend the warmer days enjoying the outdoors with friends and family, but it is important to remember that some activities can be dangerous for our pets," said Dr. Camille DeClementi, Senior Toxicologist at the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. "By following a few simple rules, it is easy to keep your pet safe while still having fun in the sun." Take these simple precautions, provided by ASPCA experts, to help prevent your pet from overheating. And if you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, get help from your veterinarian immediately. 

  #1 Visit the Vet  A visit to the veterinarian for a spring or early summer check-up is a must. Make sure your pets get tested for heartworm if they aren't on year-round preventive medication. Do parasites bug your animal companions? Ask your doctor to recommend a safe flea and tick control program.

#2 Made in the Shade  Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot outdoors. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, be careful to notover-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot. 

#3  Know the Warning Signs  Symptoms of  overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. They can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible. 

#4  No Parking!  Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle. "On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time-even with the windows open-which could lead to fatal heat stroke," says Dr. Louise Murray, Vice President of ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. Also, leaving pets unattended in cars in extreme weather is illegal in several states. 

#5  Make a Safe Splash  Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool-not all dogs are good swimmers. Introduce your pets to water gradually and make sure they wear flotation devices when on boats. Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from his fur, and try to keep your dog from drinking pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals that could cause stomach upset. 

#6  Screen Test  "During warmer months, the ASPCA sees an increase in injured animals as a result of High-Rise Syndrome, which occurs when pets-mostly cats-fall out of windows or doors and are seriously or fatally injured," says Dr. Murray. "Pet owners need to know that this is completely preventable if they take simple precautions." Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured. 

#7  Summer Style  Giving your dog a lightweight summer haircut helps prevent overheating. Shave down to a one-inch length, never to the skin, so your dog still has some protection from the sun. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. As far as skin care, be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals. 

#8  Street Smarts  When the temperature is very high, don't let your dog linger on hot asphalt. Being so close the ground, your pooch's body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum. 

 #9 Avoid Chemicals  Commonly used flea and tick products, rodenticides (mouse and rat baits), and lawn and garden insecticides can be harmful to cats and dogs if ingested, so keep them out of reach. When walking your dog, steer clear of areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. Keep citronella candles, oil products and insect coils out of pets' reach as well. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect your animal has ingested a poisonous substance. 

#10  Party Animals  Taking Fido to a backyard barbeque or party? Remember that the food and drink offered to guests may be poisonous to pets. Keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as they can cause intoxication, depression and comas. Similarly, remember that the snacks enjoyed by your human friends should not be a treat for your pet; any change of diet, even for one meal, may give your dog or cat severe digestive ailments. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and products with the sweetener xylitol.

Meeting And Greeting

Proper Greeting For Dogs

​When introducing dogs for the first time it’s important to remain calm and be patient.  One mistake that is often made when introducing two dogs is rushing the process. As humans, we often encounter people that may “rub” us the wrong way and we don’t instantly bond with; it’s the same with dogs, we can’t expect them to be best buddies in a matter of minutes. Making sure that the two meet on neutral ground is important and should help the dogs remain calm and without territorial behaviors. If you know that your dog has a favorite toy or gets grouchy sharing, don’t bring the toy for the initial meeting, as this could ignite a fight. ​Making new friends for your pup can be a fun
and rewarding experience. Dogs can play a role in encouraging friendships and meeting new people. They get people out of the house for exercise and motivate owners to become more involved in rescues and shelters. If a first time introduction doesn’t go as smoothly as you’d like, don’t fret, try again in the future. As an example, when my two

Face-to-Face Greetings can quickly lead to fights between
unknown dogs.

Walking dogs together is a great way for them to socialize in
a controlled environment.

rescues met for the first time, my “gets along with everyone” girl was growling and snapping at the other one.  We ended up taking them outside and walking them together as a pack, while maintaining a safe distance. After a the first night of monitoring their interactions we realized that Millie, our lovable girl wasn’t being aggressive, but was teaching Wonder how to play and interact with another dog. Wonder had spent the last 4 months of his life in a crate at an animal hospital and lacked social interaction with other dogs. When he met Millie, he played like a puppy, biting her ear, and tugging at her. Millie corrected his play by teaching him bite inhibition. They are now best friends and love to play keep away by chasing each other around the house. ​While this is just one example of an introduction, it’s important to know the temperament of each dog. While I knew that Millie was a happy-go- lucky kind of girl who is vocal, not aggressive, Wonder seemed like an eager, crazy wild thing that didn’t understand or respect the social norms when meeting other dogs. Humans often shake hands with a person when they meet for the first time, for dogs this translates into sniffing. It may seem and look silly, but nose to tail is the proper meet and greet. Both should remain on leashes, under the control of their owner. This should take place on neutral territory, if possible, with each dog having an eye on their owner for commands or cues. You never want to put a dog in a situation where they may fail (i.e. a tight space where they can’t escape from the other dog).  After the initial sniff and greet, I highly recommend going for a walk. If the dogs looked relaxed after a while, ears back, looking around, rather than staring down other dog, you can try to walk the two side by side, while both leashed and you in control.  Slow increments of exposure go a long way in developing trust with the new dog, and in the owner. Another thing to remember is that when you’re walking with your pup and you see a loose dog, or an owner that wants their dog to play with yours, feel free to say “no”, or say “we’re in training right now”.  As a dog owner it is your responsibility to speak up for you dog, to tell the other (sometimes insistent) owner to back off and not engage in dog play. I know that I’ve been in some sticky situations with my pups, and telling someone else that your dog doesn’t play well with others may feel embarrassing or shameful, but in the end you are making the right decision by protecting and speaking up for you dog, who may not be ready to face the world. -K Paige

4th of July and your Pup

The fourth is upon us!  We are approaching our country's 236th birthday of independence!  This is a time of celebration, food, family, and fun.  However, when you factor in the stress, excitement, and high anxiety of friend and family barbecues along with the sight and noise of fireworks, you may find yourself with a problematic pup.  Fireworks and pets just don't mix in a normal environment.  If your dog is not desensitized to loud noises, as a therapy or working dog might be for example, then it is probably best to leave him home during the festivities.

Prevention and Desensitizing:
Dogs are typically not use to the sound and disruption of fireworks. It can cause anxiety levels to skyrocket and segway into further behavior problems.  This stress can cause stomach issues, timidness, helplessness, separation anxiety, or fear-aggression.  If you have noticed your dog is sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights, try desensitizing them to this prior to the fourth. Start with playing a recording of fireworks at a low volume. Do normal fun activities with your dog, during the playback. Gradually raise the volume while treating, training and playtime. If you notice the dog withdrawing, reduce the volume until he is comfortable and begin again.

Food and Family:
I'm sure some of your guests are NOT dog people. All they know of dogs is fun and treats, or licks and rubs. Keep your pup safe from ingesting dangerous food or inedible products (ie. wooden skewers, bones, plastic ware, poisonous food).  Remember, it's not only chocolate that is harmful to dogs (i.e. onions, garlic, avocado, grapes, etc.)  It's like Christmas to your pup, with all the food around, and unmonitored plates. Before you know it your food has spontaneously disappeared, and you may be off to the emergency vet.  Be mindful of your barbecue.  You don't want to be tending to burns as well.

Flight from Fear:

This time of year has one of the highest rates of lost pets. Make sure you have your dog tagged and/or microchipped and secured in a quiet safe place. Fear of the noise may cause your dog to flee or hide. If they are loose, they could potentially run into a high traffic area or get lost by running too far from home.  Want an easy prevention?  Keep your dog at home in a safe quiet room, with the TV or radio on to provide a comfortable noise-distraction, and avoid the festivities all together.

The tips above are brief and summarized. Each dog possesses a different personality and will not theoretically react the same way. Please consult with us about your dog, and situation and we will assist you to ensure a safe and happy Fourth!

Back in the Pack
www.backinthepack.com

You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!

As we grow as dog owners, so does our knowledge of the pets we keep. We get comfortable, and honestly believe we know all there is to know about our furry friend and companion. Little do we know, we have often either catered to our pets' misbehaviors, caused the problem behaviors ourselves, or merely avoided a solution altogether and settled with the outcome. Here are a few common misconceptions about dog behavior I have heard in the past:

MYTH #1: Feeding Dogs People Food Encourages Begging

Actually, it isn't the food itself that causes begging behavior. In fact, many of our foods are quite healthy and nutritious for dogs. Some vets will encourage a diet of vegetables or rice to help combat obesity or improve digestion, and others will feed raw meat and vegetables to their pets. It is feeding your pet while you are eating that causes the begging behavior. If your pups are eating snacks off the dinner table or catching popcorn on movie night, why shouldn't they expect that kind of service to be continued at all times? "Demand" barking, howling, and excessive drooling can be very annoying at family dinners or when guests come over. It may even disturb that fun movie night, or wreak havoc on a formal dinner party. So we just lock our dogs up, right? Wrong. We must train them to respect our space, and eat when we say they can-- not when they think they deserve it. They should be comfortable and preoccupied when you eat, enjoying a toy, or lying peacefully in a separate room while you enjoy your dinner or snack.

MYTH #2: Dogs Eat Grass When They Need to Vomit

Yes and No. Dogs eat their vegetables, too! Dogs are scavengers; like us, they eat both meat and vegetable. In their earlier, less domesticated days, as they ate the stomach contents of their herbivore prey, dogs also ingested the grasses that the prey had eaten. This was a dietary necessity. Our domesticated dog has a deep-seeded need for these nutrients, as well. Many dogs will graze on grass when out for a walk, craving a nutrient not provided in their dry cereal. Some do it out of boredom -- just as we do with our snacks. We aren't necessarily hungry, but it's there. Why not eat it? Sometimes, however, dogs will use grass to cause regurgitation when they are gassy, or have an upset stomach. They have learned it will tickle their throats, irritate their stomach linings, and induce vomiting -- so it's not always a bad thing. Just always be aware of the grass your dogs are eating, to ensure pesticides or other harmful products have not been added. 

MYTH #3: You Can't Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

Oh, you can -- but you tell me how easy it is to teach Grandma how to use that new Playstation you got for Christmas. Dogs are like people in that sense. The older they get, the more stubborn and "set in their ways" they can become. It is still possible to teach them new behaviors, or rehabilitate behaviors they may already have, but it will take more patience, time, and stimuli to do so.  Puppies and younger dogs are active, reward-motivated, and eager to please. As dogs age, some just want to be left alone, and some have been catered to with a silver spoon. Why should they budge for treats when the butler (you!) will tend to their needs as soon as they call? The key to training an older dog is finding out what stimuli will work on it.  What makes the dog tick? What still brings a light to his/her eyes and puts pep in his step? Those are the tools you will need to train.

MYTH #4: A Wagging Tail Means a Happy, Friendly Dog

Sometimes, yes. In fact, most times, yes.  Your dog's tail is a window into his mind; it can demonstrate when a dog is excited, agitated, fearful, tense, anxious, and more. For this reason, the tail is one of the most important forms of communication from dogs to humans. Educate yourself on social cues between dopes to determine what your dog is trying to say. For example: A high, erect wagging tail may be a sign of dominance or aggression, while a low, tucked wagging tail may display fear or submission. Either of these can lead to a fight-- or a flight -- by your dog.

For more information or answers about your dog's behavior (or other common misconceptions), "like" us on Facebook, or feel free contact Back in the Pack directly at http://www.backinthepack.com.Fppy Training!HaDari FergusonnerBack in the PaOwner/Head Traick

Our Silent Heroes

This Memorial Day, while we barbecue, spend time with family, and enjoy the beach, don't forget to honor the military men, women, and military dogs who have given their life to defend our country.

War dogs have silently fought for us for decades many not returning from the field. I'd like to honor those who have fallen, as many do not realize how much their hard work and dedication has influenced our military. In 2000, Clinton passed a law to allow these dogs to be adopted. Since then military dog adoptions have gradually risen. These dogs may have behavior problems(ie. post traumatic stress disorder) or missing limbs, but in no way are less worthy of a happy retirement.

To learn more about these incredible heroes and their stories or to learn about how to adopt and/or support retired war dogs, visit USWarDogs.org or Military Working Dog Adoptions.

FYI: Pet Food Recall -Salmonella

Here’s an easy to read bulleted version of the pet food recall. It’s quite a list….


Attention All Pet Parents!

A voluntary recall has been issued for several brands of dry pet food due to the potential for Salmonella.


Taste of the Wild (Cat and Dog)
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul (Cat and Dog)
Natural Balance Vegetarian
Natural Balance Lamb & Brown Rice
Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison
Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison
Wellness Large Breed Puppy
Canidae Dog, All Life Stages
Canidae Dog, Chicken Meal & Rice
Canidae Dog, Lamb Meal & Rice
Canidae Dog, Platinum
Solid Gold WolfCub Large Breed Puppy
Solid Gold WolfKing Large Breed Adult
Country Value
Diamond
Diamond Naturals
Premium Edge
Professional
4Health
Kirkland Signature

Pet owners who are unsure if the product they have purchased is included in the recall, contact the manufacturers directly:

Diamond Pet Foods
Customer service: 1-866-918-8756 or visit www.diamondpetrecall.com

Natural Balance
Customer Service: 1-800-829-4493 or visit www.naturalbalanceinc.com

Wellness
Customer Service: 1-800-225-0904

Canidae
Customer Service: 1-800-398-1600

Solid Gold
Customer Service: 1-800-364-4863

Salmonella can be transferred from pets to humans. Symptoms include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Fever
Chills
Headache
Muscle pains
Blood in the stool

If you are experiencing these symptoms please consult a physician for medical care.

DJF

A Pup That Loves Too Much

Separation anxiety (SA) is a common behavior problem that I have experienced with my clients.  It is a widely known reason for many owners to give up on their pets, albeit re-homed or turned into shelters and rescues.  However, SA does not have to be a reason to give up on your pet, it can be treated through behavior modification and or medication.

What is Separation Anxiety?

Your dog most likely sleeps, barks occasionally at outside noises, wanders the house, or chews on his toys while you are away.  This is normal.  Others who experience separation anxiety may bark incessantly, chew on furniture or drywall, destroy personal items, or urinate and deficate in the house. This is not normal.  Some are in such a state of fear and anxiety that while in a crate, they break nails off, cause bodily injury to the themselves, or drool so terribly that when you return they are literally standing in a pool of saliva.

Causes of Separation Anxiety?
There can be several underlying reasons why a dog may have separation anxiety.  First, dogs are pack animals.  Thousands of years of evolution has developed their highly social nature and engrained them to stay with their pack.  You may have an issue with dominance, where the dog can not possibly believe that his pack has left him.  He may claw at an exit or entry way until you return trying to find a way back to his/her pack.  Another cause may be actual fear.  Something may have scared the dog previously (ie. thunderstorm, natural disaster, burglary, etc.)  The thought of being alone without the security of his pack is terrifying, so in turn he tries to escape any way possible. If a dog has been taken from his  canine pack too early and is very dependent on humans than he may wonder how he will survive without.  So in his head he has to get back to you. There are many different scenarios that can cause SA. The key is recognizing it and helping the dog gain confidence and overcoming his/her fears.

Solutions to SA?
This article in no way will give you a definitive solution to SA. Consult a behaviorist and/or a vet and determine if there is a medical condition or if it is a behavior problem.  A way to aid in their rehabilitation is to start out making your arrival and departure very unexciting.  Don't make a big deal out of coming and going.  Also, change your routine to leaving.  SA can start with something as simple as grabbing your keys or putting your coat on. Practice doing these things in small time intervals, making the departures and the returns short.  Gradually increase time intervals.

  Try giving them something to do.  Leave a toy or mental stimulation for them.  There are many products our there with food puzzles and fillable chew toys, or a simple bone might do the trick.  This will keep them occupied while you are away.  Exercising them before you go is also a good way to prevent SA.  A tired dog is a happy dog.  Feed your dog before you leave, or provide a snack.  Dogs tend do get a little more nervous when they are hungry.  You can also leave a radio or tv on. I tend to turn one on in a different room, so the dog may think someone is home with them.  There is not an overnight cure or solution to SA.  It is a process that has to be consistently worked-out.  Once you find the root cause of the anxiety and a positive solution response (however small), you will be on your way to re-associating and stabilizing your pack.

DJF
www.backinthepack.com

Pups on the Move

As I prepare to move into a new residence, I wanted to share with you the emotional roller-coaster that moving can be for your dog as well.

Moving in itself can be a stressfull project. It can also be a time of cleansing and reorganizing. We get a chance to throw out old and unused items, we find items we had thought were lost and we begin to organize our disarray. Our pups look at this situation as change. Change is terrifying for most dogs. Most dogs are not naturally use to change. They are creatures of habit, and we are about to uplift them from their comfort zone. In doing this, one can experience behavior problems. Separation anxiety, excessive panting, drooling, or drinking of water, pacing, destruction, chewing, digging, defication or urination in the home, loss of appetite and loose stool are all examples of what you may experience with change. The best way to prevent or keep these behaviors from revealing themselves is to keep routines and habits as normal as possible.

Keep exercise routines in place: daily walks or runs will help keep the energy level low and prevent anxieties from building up. Don't just substitute with backyard playtime. They need their workout too, even if you are exhausted from the move.

Feedings and bathroom breaks: If you have them on a regular feeding schedule, keep the schedule as constant as you can. Don't overfeed or offer more water. They will most likely want to drink more, but that will only encourage more bathroom breaks.

Immediately start consistent routine in your new home: Show your dog the exit and entry points in the new house.  It may have multiple entry ways, so make sure your dog knows the bathroom exits and keep it consistent.  Also, begin to set exactly where you want their things like toys, beds, food and water bowls, crates, etc..  You want to avoid moving things around too much.  Your dog needs to know where his things are and where a good place is for them to settle away from the commotion.

Training training training! Take a break from moving and spend a little time with your dog training. This will mentally exhaust them and keep them a little calmer during the process.  When you keep the bond of training going through a move, it helps offset things that may lead to separation anxiety and other unwanted behaviors.

Keep them away from the hustle and bustle: There are going to be a lot people coming and going during the actual move out/move in. Keep your dogs safe and secure and away from the commotion. Play a radio or tv so they don't hear as much of the activity, this will help to keep the anxiety at bay as well.

I hope these tips help out in any future moves you may have. These tips also will help with vacations or pet sitting. Change does not always have to be a bad thing, but it can be scary and ALOTof work. Happy Training!

dJf

Dog Parks....the treat not the exercise

Dog parks are becoming more and more popular, and as spring is approaching, it will flourish even more. They provide a place where dogs can run freely off-leash and socialize with other dogs. Although they are not for everyone, dog parks can be beneficial for both people and their pets if used correctly. Common misconceptions about dog parks can lead to dog fights or behavior problems within your pack.

MYTH #1: Dog parks are used to exercise your dog after being locked up all day.

Your dog is often excited, anxious, and ready to run after being confined during a work day. This high energy can lead to a dangerous combination of rough play and instability within a pack and ultimately lead to an altercation. Dog parks should not replace The Structured Walk. Your dog needs the guidance first, and the opportunity to calm down. Only stable, exercised, and well-behaved dogs should attend dog parks, and be allowed to roam off leash.



MYTH #2: Dog parks are a great place to socialize your dog.

Yes and no. For those who have "doggy play dates", a dog park may be an excellent place to meet up. The dogs within the group are already familiar with each other and have established their pack role and boundaries within the group. A dog park is a larger all-fenced in area for them to play and socialize with each other after they have received their walk. If your dog has behavior issues (ie. anxiety, fear, aggression) consult with a trainer to work on socializing and know your role as the owner on how to take the leadership role with your pup within the dog park.



MYTH #3: When my dog is off-leash, it is their opportunity to run freely without structure.


Many owners do not understand pack mentality. Most dogs prefer to be followers, so they look to their owners for guidance. When they do not receive that guidance, there is confusion and they will often try to establish it on their own. Leadership is a must within your pack. Controlling your dog's behavior and actions, even when off-leash, is a must within a dog park.  This is an opportunity to train and interact in a controlled off-leash environment.  Try practicing your recall and focus tricks when you dog is distracted.  With consistent practice, this will become a powerful tool in your training.  Be sure to also supervise and control play, greetings, and other interactions to avoid altercations BEFORE they start.  Just because your dog is stable and well-trained does NOT mean that the other dogs in the park will be.

The key to a successful visit to the dog park is: Socialize your pup before entering a dog park. Take on the leadership role, keeping your dog occupied with you and under control. Do not allow bullying by your dog or to your dog. Watch your dog! This is not an opportunity to read a magazine or catch up on emails. Make sure your dog is exercised and calm before entering the dog park, don't forget the walk.

Dog parks can be fun for both owners and pets. They provide a large fenced in area to allow your dog to be off leash, but this can also be a scary idea for a dog who is unsure of himself. Know your dog, know his behavior and temperament, do not make it an experiment.

DJF

Valentines Day Safety for Your Pets

Valentines Day can be especially hazardous to our furry little friends. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe and out of harms way during this lovable holiday.

If you are a chocolate lover, a bit of caution can save your pet's life. Keep the chocolate out of Fido's reach. It is toxic and can cause comic actions if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms of ingestion are tremors, rapid heartbeat, hyperactivity, and seizures. Chocolate can also cause liver damage.

Remember some plants can also be toxic to animals. So ensure all bouquets are out of your typical counter surfers reach. You can check online for a full list of toxic plants.

Alcohol and decor can be hazardous as well. Pets love to chew on anything. They may enjoy unwrapping your surprise gifts. Keep balloons, cellophane, ribbons, and wrapping papers from their paws and claws and increase their toy box to keep them occupied.

Lastly, we all love a nice romantic candlelight dinner right? Have a watchful eye around the flames to ensure the furries don't get too close, and keep those table scraps to yourself. We don't want to risk an emergency trip to the vet during your romantic date.

Keep in mind these tips can help at any given day, there is just an increased likelihood during the holidays. Happy Valentine's Day to all and your pets.

Consider Adopting before Buying!!

Most of you know I am all in favor of rescuing, but why?

I can understand sport enthusiasts, show, formal obedience, or other drive work, but family companionship??? Why do you require a paper that guarantees your dog's bloodline if you are not participating those activities. Yes, you have a better idea of the temperament are getting based on the parents, but is that always a good thing? I have run into many people who want a German-line pure bred German Shepherd, who have never had a GSD before. They end with my number for training with behavior problems. Yes, pure breeds have behavior problems too!!

Many think rescue pups always behavior problems, but no more than the breeder pups. Rescues intake breeder pups all the time as well and depending on the family that owned them and what they were subjected too determines if I get a phone call for training. So don't be under the impression that only rescue pups, mix breeds, or un-pedigreed dogs have "issues".

I am all for reducing the pet population problem that plagues us. There are so many unwanted animals in the shelters. Please consider helping one of these by adopting before you take the breeder route. Below are a few of my foster pups thru VA German Shepherd rescue.