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
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
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
What is Separation Anxiety?
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
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Pups on the Move
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.
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.
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
Monday, February 27, 2012
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
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.
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
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
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.
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.
Monday, January 23, 2012
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.
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.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
New Years and our Pets!
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
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
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