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Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Holiday Reminders
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
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
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Pack Walk Nov 2011
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!
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!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Sometimes They Train Us
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!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Home 4 the Holidays
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!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Halloween Hounds
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.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Fox 5 News Interview
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!
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