Let's Take a Hike With Your Dog!

Champ says: Take a hike, people!

Take Along some Treats

Now, now, we didn’t mean that in a nasty way. Don’t go! Not yet, at least. See, today is National Take a Hike Day! Yes, we know it might be a little chilly in some parts of the country, but if you bundle up well and keep moving, you’ll be toasty in no time. This is your encouraging reminder to get out of the house for at least one more good hike before winter weather really sets in.

And who better to take along for the trek than your dogs?

Hiking is a great way for humans to improve their health, reduce stress, and simply help you have fun while enjoying the great outdoors. Now, unlike the photo above, your hike doesn’t have to involve whole mountains! There are likely plenty of parks and local trails just a few minutes walk or drive away from where you’re sitting right now. Of course, if you’re up for something more ambitious–like clambering up one of Colorado’s many 14er peaks–then go for it!

Hiking with your dogs is also an excellent way to help them get in some great exercise while exploring Nature. They’ll thank you for the fun, for sure! But there are a few things to take into consideration before you strike out on the trail.

What are the trail leash laws? Some hikes require dogs to remain on leash the whole time, while others allow them off-leash so long as they’re under voice command. Respect other hikers (and possibly other dogs) on the trail and keep your pups from disturbing them along the way.

Depending on the length of the hike, you should plan on bringing plenty of water for both yourself and your dogs. Sometimes you can get lucky and hike along a flowing creek or river they can drink from, but consider still bringing along an extra bottle and perhaps a collapsible dog bowl in case the flow has dried up.

Lastly, even though it’s no longer technically tick season thanks to the chillier weather, it’s still a good idea to check over your dog once you get back to the car. Look for ticks still, but also check their fur and paws for scrapes or cuts they might’ve gained while sprinting around.

All right! Enough of us talking. Go grab your hiking stick, a leash, and a few snacks and head on out while the day is still warm and bright.

Pros & Cons of Sedation for Your Dog !

You're packed, you have the health certificate and you are ready to take that much needed vacation with your pet. You just have one more thing to decide: should you sedate your pet for the trip or not?

If you were going to be stuck in a dark, cool cargo area near a roaring airplane engine, you would want to be sedated. So it would be natural to assume your pet would prefer this as well. Unfortunately what you and your pet prefer may not be what is safe or even necessary.

Advantages

Sedatives have been used for years to calm pets and reduce nervousness, usually in association with thunderstorms or fireworks. Sedatives have also been used to reduce fear that may develop during air travel. Sedatives are commonly used to calm extremely fearful pets, those prone to severe separation anxiety and overactive pets. In these situations, sedatives reduce the potential for self-injury.

Disadvantages

For most pets, sedatives are not recommended. Even nervous pets, once they are in a carrier in a quiet dark place, typically calm down and most even go to sleep. The primary disadvantage of sedating pets for air travel is that there is no one to check on them nor offer medical care if problems arise. As with any drug, sedatives have side effects. The most profound and potentially life threatening problem associated with sedation is the effect on blood pressure. Most sedatives lower the blood pressure which can make your pet groggy and cold. Cargo cabins are not heated and, in cold weather, are quite cool. This cool environment, accompanied by lower blood pressure and a colder body temperature, can result in hypothermia. If left untreated, hypothermia and low blood pressure can be fatal. Another concern is that the effect of high altitude on the action of sedatives is unknown. What is known is that sedative use has been implicated as a contributing factor to many pet air travel deaths.

Overall, sedation for traveling pets is NOT recommended. Even for those pets that may benefit from sedation, the owner must be thoroughly aware of all the complications, side effects and risks of using a sedative. You and your pet would probably be safer and have a much more pleasant vacation if sedatives were not included.

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9 Benefits of Pumpkin for Pets - Pumpkin for Dogs and Cats

Pumpkin is very popular in human recipes but what about dogs and cats? Pumpkin can be great for dogs and cats as well and has several health benefits.

What kind of fruit weighs between 1 and 1,000 pounds, has a centuries-long world history, and is more useful today than ever? The magnificent pumpkin, of course!

Pumpkin is very popular in human recipes but you probably haven't thought about giving it to your pets. This vibrant fall ingredient can be great for dogs and cats and has a number of health benefits.

This versatile food has been important to mankind for centuries. According to the University of Illinois Extension Program, it's a crop that's worth over 140 million dollars annually in the United States alone. They should know; Illinois produces 90 to 95% of the pumpkins grown in the US.

Pumpkins have significant health benefits for people and pets so don't discount this amazing food as just a fall tradition. Canned or plain cooked pumpkin as well as pumpkin seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential to the health of our pets.

Here are some of the health benefits of pumpkin for dogs and cats:

1. Combating dehydration: Pumpkin flesh is around 90% water, so a little pumpkin topping on a meal can combat dehydration resulting from moisture-deficient processed dry dog and cat foods. An additional benefit is improved digestion from increasing the gastric "juices" essential to proper gastrointestinal health.

2. Helping with Constipation: Fiber from pumpkin works in pets the same way it does in humans and can actually treat some gastrointestinal issues. A tablespoon or two of pumpkin can resolve symptoms in a few days if the gut is just a bit "out of order." Some cats may experience decreased colon activity as they age, resulting in constipation. The added fiber from pumpkin increases the bulk of the stool and the colon muscles react by moving things along.

3. Reducing Hairballs: By increasing the volume of waste in the intestine, pumpkin can help your cat digest and eliminate fur swallowed during grooming. This can reduce or even prevent the formation of "hairballs" that are eventually regurgitated.

4. Resolving Diarrhea: Yes, it works both ways! Pumpkin can soothe constipation but diarrhea can also be remedied with the addition of pumpkin to a dog or cat's diet. It is particularly effective if the upset is the result of colitis caused by a rapid food change or the ingestion of a new food. All it takes is a teaspoon for small dog or cat and a tablespoon or two for a medium or large dog of canned pumpkin in the animal's food.

5. Boosting Weight Loss: With 3 grams of fiber per cup, pumpkin can augment weight loss in dogs and cats. The fiber fills the tummy so your pet feels "fuller" sooner, meaning Pookie eats fewer calories overall.

6. Supplementing Nutrition: One of the biggest benefits of pumpkin to pets and humans is its wealth of nutrition. Pumpkins contain carbohydrates, potassium, vitamin C, Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, selenium, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, copper, and protein. You do not want to overload your pet's system with these nutrients and trace minerals, however. This is not a case of a little bit being good and a lot being better.

7. Adding Antioxidants: Pumpkin contain antioxidants which help moisturize skin, helping your pet maintain a healthy and shiny coat.

8. Providing Essential Fatty Acids: In addition to antioxidants, pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids with similar benefits. Pets may consume the seeds raw (if they are fresh) or enjoy the roasted version which store better. Lightly coat the seeds with cooking oil and roast in a 375-degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes for a daily treat your pet will love. Only offer a few seeds at a time to your pet (the fiber can cause a softening of the stool). Store the seeds in an airtight container or freeze them. Don't forget to roast some extras for yourself! If your pet is small you can grind up the seeds to ensure they are easier to digest and don't get caught in the intestine.

9. Controlling Parasites: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a possible anthelmintic that eliminates tape and roundworms. Additionally the seeds may inhibit the formation of kidney and bladder stones, and some studies have shown anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds may be ground up and added to food, but again, be conservative.

Don't grab that jack-o-lantern just yet though! Carved pumpkins are NOT something you want to feed your pets because mold begins rapidly growing inside them once the skin is broken.

The best pet-safe sources are fresh or canned pumpkin cooked with no additional spices added. Do not get canned pumpkin designed for use in pie as this frequently contains spices and other ingredients. Opt for pure, plain pumpkin. Plan on freezing cooked pumpkin and fresh seeds; they last about a week when refrigerated. Some pet shops will carry pumpkin specially prepared for pets with sweet potato or other fruits added for flavor and nutritional benefits.

For treat recipes that contain pumpkin for dogs, go to:

Pumpkin Cookie Dog Treat Recipe

Healthy Treats - Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits & Pumpkin Dog Treats

Best Halloween Dog Treat Recipes

If you need specific recommendations for pumpkin for your pet, please discuss the issue with your veterinarian.

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Top 10 Peeves Dogs Have With Humans

Hi  Just like kids, dogs can do things that really annoy their pet parents. I can think of quite a few examples…sniffing crotches, jumping up on people, that sort of thing. Some dogs beg for food which annoys most of us, although some people don't seem to mind as much as others.  And then of course there's the barking and barking and barking. Yep, life with dogs isn't always fun and games. But let's think about the other side for a second: what do you think humans do that might annoy dogs? We recently received this very funny list of the top things about humans that annoy dogs. One of our readers asked us to share it with you and I think you will enjoy it.  Do you agree with this list? What do you think is the most annoying thing humans do to “bug” dogs?. I'll be curious to find out what you think!  forget

We recently received this very funny top ten list. One of our readers asked us to share it with you. We think you will enjoy this.

Top 10 Peeves Dogs Have With Humans

1. Blaming your farts on me..... not funny... not funny at all !!!

2. Yelling at me for barking. I'M A FRIGGIN' DOG

3. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway?

4. Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose. Stop it!

5. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew your stuff up when you're not home.

6. The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw. You fooled a dog! Whoooo oooooooo what a proud moment for the top of the food chain.

7. Taking me to the vet for "the big snip", then acting surprised when I freak out every time we go back!

8. Getting upset when I sniff the crotches of your guests. Sorry, but I haven't quite mastered that handshake thing yet.

9. Dog sweaters. Hello ??? Haven't you noticed the fur?

10. How you act disgusted when I lick myself. Look, we both know the truth. You're just jealous.

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Today is World Rabies Day!

Champ as a Puppy!

Be Aware! Today is World Rabies Day! Rabies. Few words can make a pet owner shudder more. Rabies is a nasty viral disease that gets transmitted either through the saliva or nervous system tissues from one mammal to another. It is an incredibly deadly disease with a 99.9% fatality rate across the world! Once clinical symptoms actually appear, the death is inevitable. That’s pretty serious, to say the least, especially considering that rabies can easily be transmitted through small bites or scratches from infected animals. Now, immediate post-exposure treatment can stop rabies before it progresses to the point of no return, and there are ways to take preventative action against rabies. If your pet is ever in the vicinity of skunks, raccoons, foxes, bats, coyotes, various rodents and other wild animals, they’re at risk of contracting rabies. That’s why World Rabies Day has been established to inform people of the danger rabies presents plus give them the resources needed to protect themselves and their pets against the ravages of such a disease. What’s the best way to protect your pet against the threat of rabies? Vaccination is the primary method, even if your pet spends most or all of its time indoors. Make sure your pet’s rabies shots are up-to-date at all times. If they’ve been bitten or scratched by another animal, be sure to take them in to the vet for a booster shot as well. When out in the wilds, if you keep your pet under control on a leash, this can reduce the possibility of them running off and being exposed to another animal attack. Plus having your dog spayed or neutered is also a big help to reducing rabies–mainly because overpopulation leads to more stray dogs, which can easily become recipients and vectors of the disease. How can you tell if an animal (or another pet) has rabies? The signs aren’t usually too visible, unfortunately. Affected animals may stagger or walk oddly, may be overly aggressive or overly friendly, and foam at the mouth. None of these are definitive symptoms either way, though. If you even simply suspect an animal of having rabies, be sure to keep your own pets and family members as far away from it as possible and contact local animal authorities to have them contain the animal. In the end, awareness and prevention are the two greatest tools you have to fight the rabies threat. Visit the Global Alliance for Rabies Control for further info and find ways you can support their efforts to promote human and animal health!

House Training Your Dog or Puppy

House Training Your Dog or Puppy

You’ve brought a new dog into your home—congratulations! Now comes your first dog-training challenge: house training.

House training is not an exact science—there’s no sure-fire formula or timetable that will work for every dog. The important thing is to make it a positive experience. Here are a few tips to help you through it.

Do: Supervise your dog. Limit the dog’s run of the house to the one or two rooms where you are able to see her at all times. Dogs usually show “pre-pottying” behavior such as sniffing, circling and walking with stiff back legs; all signs that you should get her to the potty area ASAP! As the training begins to take hold, you can slowly enlarge her territory.

Don’t: Yell at a dog for a mess she made earlier. If you catch her in the act, it’s okay to startle her by clapping or making a noise (hopefully this will stop her long enough for you to whisk her outside). But a dog will not learn anything by being scolded for a past accident, even one a few minutes old. Just clean it up and soldier on.

Do: Offer big praise when she gets it right. Whether your goal is for your dog to eliminate on pee pads indoors or to do it outside, you have to really throw a party for her when she succeeds. Lavish her with praise, affection and some yummy treats!

Don’t: Rub her face in it. In addition to this action making your dog fear you, she’s incapable of making the connection that it’s the act of soiling indoors you object to—to her, you just really hate pee and poop. If she thinks that the waste itself is what you dislike, she’ll only get sneakier about hiding it from you.

Do you have any fool-proof house training tips? Share them in the comments!

P.S. Was this article helpful? Help us continue to provide pet parents with the resources they depend on by making a gift to the ASPCA today.  

Deaf Dog Awareness Week!

We often think of dogs as being creature that are inherently keen of hearing. They’re able to pick up on the tiniest noises and even hear in sound ranges beyond our own ability to detect. It’s almost like a superpower! Did you know, though, that dogs can be deaf just like humans? It’s true. Much like us, dogs can be born or become deaf through genetic defects, disease, or injury. This in no way impairs their ability to enjoy a full, long life and act just like any other dog, but it can bring about its own unique set of challenges. That’s why the last week of September is set aside as Deaf Dog Awareness Week! It’s not only a time to educate yourself on the issues surrounding deaf dogs but also to promote the adoption of deaf dogs across the country. So what should you know about deaf dogs (and potentially adopting one)? First off, know that deaf dogs don’t suffer from any lack of intelligence or physical ability. Just because they can’t hear doesn’t mean they can’t function normally. They’ll make all the same noises and have the same behaviors as a hearing dog. Deaf dogs also don’t require a “hearing companion,” i.e. a dog that can hear normally to guide them around or otherwise keep them safe. Dogs have numerous other senses they can rely on beyond hearing in order to navigate the wide and wonderful world. Deaf dogs are also fully trainable! They can pick up on sign-language commands quite well and will become visually cued to your actions–just like any other dog. The main warning of note with a deaf dog is that they should never be allowed to freely roam outside. Since they can’t hear, they aren’t always aware of cars or other dangers that might sneak up on them. If outside, they should either be supervised at all times, leashed, or contained by a fence. Have you ever wondered if your dog is deaf or not? Here are a few simple ways to test this: Call your dog in a normal voice Jangle keys or coins while standing behind your dog Whistle for your dog from across the yard Have someone ring your home’s doorbell Squeeze a squeaky toy across the room for your dog If your dog fails to respond to these various auditory signals, it might indicate partial or complete deafness. If you’d like more information on deaf dogs, be sure to visit theDeaf Dog Education Action Fund website. There you’ll find plenty of helpful resources plus see the many ways you can contribute to the fund’s efforts to support deaf dogs and their owners across the world.