Back in the Pack

Consider Adopting before Buying!!

2012-01-23T07:31:00.001-08:00

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.

New Years and our Pets!

2011-12-29T04:46:00.001-08:00

As the new year creeps upon us, we gather our family together and celebrate another blessed and successful year with resolutions on how to better the oncoming. While we are celebrating let's not forget our dear pets who unbeknownst take part in the festivities. This time time of year can be very frightening to pets of all species. The onslaught of crowds or lack there of can cause anxiety and loud noises, such as fireworks or gun fire can be very unsettling. This time of year is heavily saturated with lost or missing pets as well, resulting from fear and darting out an open door. Here is a small list of pointers to ensure your pet is safe and secure during the New Year festivities:

Make sure your pet has his ID collar with appropriate contact information. This will help ensure a safe return of your pet if found. Also, consider microchipping your pet. We now have the ability to "track" our pets whereabouts and this can be very helpful in finding your lost pet.

Have up to date photos of your pets. You may need these to update an online pet search profile or print posters.

In the home, ensure your pet has a "safe haven". With many guests in the home your pet may become anxious, give them a quiet area where they can rest and detox from the commotion.

Keep an eye on your alcoholic beverages. Dogs can become very thirsty when they are in an anxious state and are liable to lap up anything. Alcohol has proven hazardous to pets at higher amounts.

We can't all avoid the fireworks or gunfire, but we can try to lessen the noise. Secure a spot for your pet away from windows where he can avoid the 12 am celebration. Turn on music to soothe them or distract from the loud erratic noise.

Lastly, if a quiet room is not available, then let's face the loud demons with a positive attitude. Get the really good "Kryptonite" out. Once the fireworks or commotion has begun give him his favorite treat, play a game with him for distraction, start training, or allow them to retreat to their favorite place. We want to associate the noise with positivity to avoid any further anxiety or problem behaviors.

These tips will help to keep your pet safe during the new year roll around. Our pets are our family, celebrate and enjoy them, just don't forget to protect them;) Happy New Year from Back in the Pack!!!

DJF

Happy Holidays from Back in the Pack

2011-12-13T19:05:00.000-08:00

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Holiday Reminders

2011-12-08T04:56:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again! Last year BItP put out a similar blog reminding readers of a few things to be aware of during the holidays. So here we go again, take a chance and re-read "Family, Fun and Festivities with the Furries," and read on for a few more key tips to ensure a safe and happy holiday season with your pups.

As the years go by our pups seem to be the youngest members of our families. We tend to overlook that with toddlers running around or tending to guests. Your pups are sure to get themselves in trouble, whether with boredom, lack of exercise, or appetite.

The Christmas Tree: If you are one of the millions who take in a live tree this year, remember that tree water can be toxic if added chemicals are put in the water. Many add aspirin to the water to keep the tree vibrant, and while some vets may advise Aspirin in small amounts, larger amounts can be hazardous. Keep the tree holder covered or a watchful eye on the water.

Ornaments and decor: Many use glass ornaments to decorate. Try using plastic this year. While they can still be digested they are less likely to cause internal injury than glass and will not break and shatter when stepped on. Tinsel and metallic mixed garland can be another problem and can cause gastric blockage if ingested in both children and pets. So be aware of your placement if you decide to use it.
Use plastic for decorative plants this year. I enjoy a lovely poinsettia and a doorway mistletoe just as much as anyone, but take note that the leaves and stem of the poinsettia are very toxic. The berries of the mistletoe are toxic as well. Go plastic!

Moving on to food:
Oh the joy of Aunt Martha's fruit cake! Remember to check gifts for digestibles. The nose knows!!! You may return home with your presents destroyed and a rush to the emergency care vet not knowing exactly what your pet may have ingested.

We also cook a little more during this time of year. Remember some foods are not safe for out pets. Chocolates should be inaccessible, and foods with heavy garlic and onion should not be left for counter surfers. Both are toxic to pets in larger quantities. Keep those garbage cans locked away or lids shut as well, there seems to be a bit more trash diving during this season.

Onward to outdoors!:
Okay, so it's not quite Christmas without a little snow. Ice melting products can cause damage to your pet's padded paws (say that 3 times fast! :-). There are pet safe ice melters out there, and they are a little less damaging to your walkways than salt as well.
Many of our pets have nice heavy coats, but some breeds lack this. If you have a dog with no undercoat or short fur, don't forget to bundle them up. They get cold, just like we do.

Last up, house guests and entertaining: Not everyone has pets who are used to meeting large crowds, screaming children, or rambunctious pet cousins. Don't forget proper introductions, gradual socialization, or providing a safe haven for your pet to go if he is overwhelmed.
Keep the daily routine consistent. Pets love normality. If we alter their routine you are sure to see a few mischievous behaviors this holiday. Regular walks, feedings, playtimes, and attention need to stay in our daily plan to keep these behaviors at bay.

We all want our holidays to pass with ease, fun and unforgettable memories. Why not make that a little easier and a bit less stressful this year, if that's possible. Back in the Pack wishes all a safe, happy holiday and blessed New Year to come!!!

Dari, Sean and the BiTP family

Pack Walk Nov 2011

2011-11-22T05:28:00.001-08:00

What a great time we had on the pack walk this past weekend. We had 5 dogs this time thru:
Sirius- working on leash excitability
Marco-working on socializing and leash pulling
Turbo- working on socializing and leash excitability
Lily- working on socializing with both humans and other dogs
Bear- working on socializing and leash pulling

The dogs did great, and the owners did wonderful. Sean and I spent time with each of them focusing on their particular problematic behavior discussing and demonstrating proper instruction and follow thru. It was a great day in November, unseasonably warm and the dogs were happy to be out hiking. We came across many bikers and hikers, which gave us ample opportunity to demonstrate leadership with the dogs.

Great job everyone, and looking forward to our next Pack Walk in December!

Sometimes They Train Us

2011-11-10T05:42:00.001-08:00

The picture is of a Lily, a 6 yr old Great Dane who lost her sight due to disease. She was disheartened after this until she found Madison. Maddie guides Lily everywhere, touching her side to keep her from stumbling. What a pair! And what a life lesson! We could all learn a thing or two about overcoming obstacles from this pair of pooches!

Home 4 the Holidays

2011-11-05T19:43:00.001-07:00

It's November and the holidays are upon us. Today we supported VA German Shepherd Rescue at the Home for the Holidays event in Reston Town Center. There were a multitude of vendors, shelters and rescues, trainers, and boarding facilities at the outdoor festival. My white Shepherd pack (August, Kiba, and Lily) accompanied me today.

There were so many breeds represented at the event it was even the most controversial, all on their top game as ambassadors of their breed. We had the pleasure of meeting many potential adopters for August, and welcoming in new volunteers into the rescue.

These are my favorite events. A family friendly festival, jam packed with lots of hugs and kisses. Here are a few of the photos taken at the event, more can be seen on our Facebook page Adopt today!

Halloween Hounds

2011-11-04T04:31:00.001-07:00

This year Halloween definitely went to the hounds. The doorbells were ringing of the walls, only to open the door to a pup dressed ridiculously for the holiday. It was a sight! What better way to get your kid more candy, than to have his trusty sidekick beg for more! Here are few of my favorites from this year.

Fox 5 News Interview

2011-07-27T04:14:00.000-07:00

We had a great talk with Annie Yu of Fox5 Morning news on Monday! For the full interview please visit : VGSR Interview

It was a great highlight of the beautiful shepherds we have within the rescue. You don't have to go to a breeder to get a purebred. I look forward to our next interview on Jan 16, 2012, where we will highlight some training points with our GSDs, and showcase a few more adoptable shepherds from VA German Shepherd Rescue! If you are looking for a great companion shepherd please visit VA German Shepherd Rescue!

Spring is Here and So is the Fever!

2011-05-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

Our pets are just as susceptible to "Spring Fever" as humans are. We want to spend more time outside, soaking up the sun, enjoying the scenery and the warm weather. We usually take more walks or hikes, ride our bikes and go on outings. In turn your pets are spending more time outside when they accompany you. As our pets spend more time outdoors with us we increase the chances of them getting loose, lost or ill. I have noticed an increase of lost pets in the last few weeks and thought I would send out a friendly reminder to safeguard your pets. Here are a few tips to ensure your pet stays healthy and safe:

1. Lock Down!

Make sure your gate is locked in your yard. As you are doing more lawn work, coming and going from your yard is expected. Ensure your gate is locked or latched to prevent runaways.

2. Tag Your It!

Keep a collar with identification and your contact info on your dog at all times while he is outdoors. As an extra precaution have your dog microchipped and update his photo and info online. There are many different online services that will help to recover your pet if he gets lost.

3. Refresher Course

Train train train. Make sure your pet is well trained and obedient. I know it's easier to say than do, but it's very important to ensure the safety of your pet outdoors. Many dogs are under socialized. When they see another dog even on leash they react poorly. Your dog could break his or her leash or collar and escape to greet another dog or chase another furry. Recall and socialization are the most important when outside with your pet.

4. Shield Them!

Make sure to keep your vaccinations up to date as well as monthly preventatives. It's high flea and tick season with the warm weather approaching. Also I have found that many do not keep the Bordatella UTD since the dogs were primarily indoors. Dog parks are breeding grounds for this along with multiple intestinal parasites. Keep your pets healthy as they make new friends.

5. Don't Eat That!

Tis the season of barbecues! I have seen many family barbecues with off leash pets raiding garbage cans, picking up discarded scraps and licking plates. Be careful your dog does not ingest bones or trash. Keep him leashed and safely with you, or in a playpen when you can not watch him.

6. Not In My Garden!

Lawn work and gardening are in full swing. Also ensure he doesn't eat any poisonous plants while out and about. Some flowers and plants seem very appetizing to your pets. Visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ for a list of household and garden plants that are hazardous to your pet.

These are just a few ideas to keep your family happy and healthy during the Spring Fever. I look forward to seeing many of you along the trails and paths with your pets, enjoying this beautiful weather and the changing scenery. Enjoy and be safe!

Dari and Sean

Www.backinthepack.com

Family, Fun & Festivities with the Furries

2010-12-22T04:30:00.000-08:00

Family, Fun, & Festivities with the Furries

The holiday season is upon us, and your furry friend is feeling a bit anxious. As much as you are distracted by visiting guests or family, and the stress of holiday shopping, your pet will need a little more supervision and attention. Not what you wanted to hear? Here are a few tips to keep your canine anxieties at bay, and help to ensure a happy healthy pet during the season.

1. Your tree and decor. Remember it is natural for your dog to want to chew. Be careful and mindful of what holiday ornaments you use on your tree. Lights, breakable ornaments, a tree holder with a fresh oasis of water each day, candles, and poisonous plants can attract your pups. Keep a watchful eye, and place these items high and out of reach for your canine friend.

2. Training. Unwanted behaviors like barking, jumping, and stealing food are common and natural for dogs. Training is essential to keep these behaviors at an acceptable level or rid them completely. New guests in the house tend to not enforce your same rules, and will not apply discipline. Keep training fresh in your dog's mind by using each arrival of guests as a training opportunity. A trained well balanced pet is a happy pet.

3 . Avoid temptation. Let's be honest, you have a food motivated dog. If you leave the food on the counter, with no supervision, the temptation is clear. Avoid putting your dog in the position of choice. Yes, on a normal occasion, they know better, but in an anxious state, all is fair game. Block off areas of the house that may increase your pet's temptation. Crate, or baby gate your pet during times he can not be supervised. Keep guests from giving table scraps, it may even be better to remove your pet from the area all together to keep the rules in check.

4. Exercise. Snowing? Ice? Too much to do? No excuse, your pet does not understand. The winter season is the prime time for stressed under exercised pets. You wonder why they are destroying the garbage, marking the house, tearing down the ornaments or the tree. Boredom and excitability. It is essential to keep your pet well exercised and tired during this time, mentally and physically. Use mental puzzles and games to keep them occupied and entertained during festivities, but don't forget they need their walk before you shop!

5. Accept me, accept my dog. Let's not go by this motto, this season. Some of your guests are not use to the 3 German Shepherds on your lap. It can be overwhelming for a dog to get use to all the guests in their home. Avoid forcing them to do so, and avoid forcing guests to accept them. That can lead to an uncomfortable and dangerous situation. Watch for visible signs of stress, heavy panting, licking of lips, yawning, or hiding. Give your pet a safe spot away from the commotion. I know you want everyone to love your pet, but love him first.

Remember to keep your emergency vet's number handy in case of unexpected events.
Following these tips will help to keep your season bright and manageable, at least with your dog, I can't guarantee the family! Holidays are meant to be a time of family and festivities, but don't forget to keep your pet's mental health in mind, it will make everything easier along the way.
DJF

Please enjoy the link to our holiday card:

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Back in the Pack

Too Fat Fido

2010-10-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Obesity in dogs is sadly a steadily rising health risk amongst our family pets. Studies have shown over the past 20 years obesity’s ever gaining hold on America to the point of the Presidential attention. So if we as can’t control our own diet and exercise, how can anyone expect our dogs not to suffer. Affection and attention has been replaced with treats, table scraps, and an increase in meals. A romp in the back yard is considered adequate exercise. It’s just not enough. We feed our pets too much for the amount of exercise we give them. Dogs that are overweight may experience difficulty breathing or walking or they may be unable to tolerate heat or exercise. Obesity is an important health issue because it may contribute to shorter lifespan and increased risk of arthritis, cancer, diabetes and a need for surgery.

What to Look For:

Overweight dogs have heavy fat deposits over the rib cage and no prominent “tuck-up” or waist line. In normal dogs there is a thin layer of fat. You can feel the ribs easily, although you won't see them. If your dog is overweight, you will not be able to readily feel the ribs, and the tissue over the ribs may feel smooth and wavy.

Common Causes of Obesity:

Too Much Food/Low -Calorie Diet. There are many inexpensive brands that include poor ingredients in order to lower production cost. They also deliver less nutrition, therefore your dog will consume more to receive the nutrients he needs.

Spayed/Neutered. Your pets metabolism usually drops once he has been altered. Owners continue to feed the same diet as before they were altered, therefore overfeeding.

Lack of Exercise. If the dog consumes more calories than it can burn then the result is weight gain. Conversely if you increase the exercise, with the same intake of calories the dog will lose weight, burn more calories.

Medical Conditions. Your pet may have a health condition that results in weight gain, such as diabetes, an abnormality of the pituitary gland, or hypothyroidism. Consult your veterinarian to determine if a medical condition is the cause for your dog’s weight increase.

Stress. Some dogs will pace or pant when anxious or bored. Some drink extra water some eat. If your dog is leaving his food for later, than he is probably receiving too much. Dogs tend to self regulate when possible. Considering removing the excess to avoid them coming back to eat and scavenging.

What to Do?

Take your pet to the vet to determine if your dog is obese. Lower you pet’s food intake. And get them on a normal exercise regimen or increased activity. Try swimming with your dog, or a water treadmill. If you pet is asking for more food, try adding green beans, carrots, or another low-calorie vegetable to the meal to fill them. Watch the calorie content of the kibble your pet eats. Keep Fido away from the table at meal times, and away from snacking children. Remember dogs are scavengers, an empty bowl is an opportunity to look for food, don’t mistake that for a starving dog.

Obesity is not an overnight occurrence, so it will not go away overnight. There is a lot one can do to prevent obesity in your pet. Monitoring the caloric intake, investing in a premium dog food, and regular exercise and physical activity. Stay away from fatty and high sugar treats, and table scraps, and DON'T GIVE IN TO THOSE PUPPY EYES!

Aggression in your Dog?

2010-04-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Aggression is probably the most common behavioral problem reported to me in dogs. It can be quite terrifying to most people to see their beloved pet turn into an out-of-control “mad dog”. There are many types of aggression (dominance-related, fear-related, territorial aggression, maternal aggression, etc.) and the most important thing is figuring out the root cause. Whether people or intraspecies aggression (dog-on-dog), there are steps to manage and control this in order to create a well-balanced dog.

Lets remember aggression is not breed specific. This week I have scheduled at least 6 appointments with "aggression" cases from a variety of breeds ranging from Yorkies to GSD's. I have spoken to many about Pit Bulls and GSDs since I own both. Many have told me they have heard power breeds like these can turn on you at any moment or once they have reached a certain age. This simply is not true. There is always a trigger, whether it be environmental, physical or neurological. Many factors can come into play when dealing with "aggressive behavior." Responsible owners must become fully aware of their dog's normal behaviors so they can sense a change in them. Resolving these behaviors early can save owners stress, time, and money. We can all develop a trusting relationship with our dogs.

Calm socializing can lead to healthy play!

2010-04-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

3 of the dogs in this video were once under socialized, 1 of the dogs in the video is deaf, and 1 is perfectly normal and well socialized. Can you pick them out? Socializing at an early age can lead to a well-balanced healthy and friendly dog. When under-socialized the excitement levels can rise very fast resulting in aggression, fear, anxiety and a array of other problem behaviors. Being able to regulate play in an over-excited dogs is also very important to establishing a leader-follower relationship with your pet. Socializing an adult dog or correcting problem behaviors such as dog aggression or excitement can be a long and stressful road for an owner. Many pups will go without it. Can you imagine yourself forced to be alone?

DJF

Boot Camp/Boarding with Bitp

2010-03-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

Spring break boarding and pet sitting is here. Please let us know if we can assist you during you you time away. Your dogs will feel at home, and treated just as if you were home with them. If training is needed while you are away, lets us know and at an additional charge we can work Basic Manners or behavior training while you are away!!!

Fenix is ready for her new home!

2010-03-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

We have been working with this young lady for about 3 weeks now. She has gradually come out of her shell each week, getting more and more use to strangers. The job is not yet complete, but she has made such an improvement that she has met with a few potential adopters. If you are interested in this little lady please let us know! She is a special needs girl. She partially deaf, so her hearing is limited to loud noises and high pitches. But she has adapted very well. She is great with other dogs, in fact another dog helps her a great deal to learn her role in the family. She is extremely affectionate, and a wonderful companion dog.

Pup in Crisis!!

2010-02-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day.

We were able to save a pup from euthanasia.

It was a stressful and tiresome road to get here, but we made it and she is safe and sound, and on the mend. This little gal's story started a month ago when her owner gave her up to a rescue. No time, too much work, the typical reasons. She has a fear of strangers and an obsession for light-chasing. (Side note: Please don't use laser lights on your animals.) Trust is huge within the canine world, you must trust your dogs and they must trust you to protect them, to provide for them, to give them rules. Unfortunately the foster she was with didn't quite work out. She needs a person with patience and time to help her overcome her OCD and socialize her with humans to overcome fear and anxiety. Her road led her back to a vet's office after she allegedly snapped at her foster. To make a long story short, the vet deemed her a dangerous dog, unfit for human contact and she was scheduled for euthanasia. I knew this girl had more love to give, so I fought to have her saved, and by the grace of God, we won! Here is a pic of the little lady on her way to our place, her new home with her newly adoptive family.

Winter Crazies!!

2010-02-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

This is the "Cabin Fever" time of year for most of our pups. "It's too cold", you say..."Too much ice or snow, no place to walk them", "My dogs hate the snow, and won't go outside!" Believe me I've heard it all, but the dogs don't care for them, I promise.

Each time you leave the house they wish they were going with you, and that anxiety builds and builds, until finally your shoes are eaten, they've torn the pillows on the couch, ransacked the garbage, ate your houseplants, soiled the carpets, and start taking out their frustration on each other. Even longtime canine siblings seem to be having problems with each other and you have to separate them. The excuses just don't matter to the dogs.

FYI folks. Whatever you do in the Spring and Summer do in the Fall and Winter, it's a year-round commitment. Consistency is key!! Check out some of the activities you can do in the winter with your pup. Stay tuned for more tips and pics!