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How You and Your Dog Can Have the Best Possible TravelsBy Nick Burton

8/16/2019

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How You and Your Dog Can Have the Best Possible Travels

Traveling is one of life’s great adventures. The only thing to make it better: Bringing your pup along for the trip! Of course, when you’re headed out on a journey together, you want to make sure you both stay safe. Here are some tips to make that dream a possibility.

Best Destinations

While there are an infinite number of wonderful places to visit, not all of them are suitable for dogs. Thankfully, there are still many destinations to choose from, no matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for. Love the desert and hikes through sand dunes? Well, Albuquerque may be an excellent choice, with plenty of dog parks and fair weather all year. Feel like romping through the forest or enjoying the sun by a beautiful lake? If so, Tahoe in California is gorgeous in any season, and the state is noted for its love of animals. Whatever you’re seeking, a quick search online will let you know what spots are dog-friendly before booking.

Find Accommodation

Staying in a hotel or private vacation rental with a pet has never been easier. In fact, even websites like Booking.com allow you to filter options to be certain that you and Spot will be welcome. Of course, to make prep even simpler, you could use websites that specialize in pets, such as BringFido.com. This way, you can read reviews from other owners to know how well their furballs were treated and ensure you find the best environment for your pooch.

Going by Car

A road trip can be just what you need to put stress aside and truly enjoy your vacation. Yet, without preparation, Spot may be unsafe, and you might end up with a ticket. So, if you’re going out of state, you must research road laws relating to pets and have the right supplies, such as high-quality harnesses or car restraints. While crates can keep your pup safe, if your dog gets car sick or is very young, they may not be the best option. To help them stay secure, consider getting a booster seat for your dog. This way, if they’re small or young, they’ll be able to look out the window while you have peace of mind for their safety.

Have Fun Together

During your vacation, you have the perfect opportunity to try new things with Spot that you just don’t get to do at home. For instance, if you’re a fan of Major League Baseball, you could take them to a game thanks to the sport’s Pups in the Park night. Or, should you want something more active and beach-y, you could take your furball doggy surfing. Yes, it can be as fun as it sounds, and gives you an opportunity to do something together while soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean. As with picking a location, there are activities for all kinds of interests and pup personalities to try during your travels together.

Stay Active for a Happy Pup

No matter where you are, your dog is going to need exercise. Not only will this keep them better behaved, but they’ll have an outlet to release any pent-up energy in their new surroundings. Thankfully, there are likely to be dog parks or a route you can take for long walks in the morning. However, you need to ensure Spot stays safe in an unfamiliar area with potentially different weather. Given that, always have a water bowl to keep them hydrated, and if you’re somewhere sunny, use dog-friendly sunscreen to protect their skin. As they may also be extra excited, keep a watchful eye on them to stop them from eating something harmful, or bothering other dogs. After all, this is meant to be a fun, not stressful, time.

Bringing your pet along for a trip can be an extraordinary journey. However, if you’re unprepared, both you and your dog can suffer a bad experience. All it takes is a bit of planning, and you both can safely enjoy yourselves.

Image courtesy of Pixabay

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Dollar-Stretching Ideas for Owners with Senior Dogs Image Courtesy of Wolves Den Ranch The German Shepherd Dog is Izzy.   Author- Nick Burton 

3/12/2019

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Dollar-Stretching Ideas for Owners
with Senior Dogs

​ As time goes by, our dogs seem to not just grow older but also wiser and more endearing. Naturally, you want to keep your pooch in his prime, although that can sometimes be challenging, both in terms of deciding what is best for your dog and fitting it into your budget. Here are some ideas for stretching your dollars so you and Fido can savor those senior years.

Supportive Equipment

It’s not unusual for older dogs to experience a loss of mobility due to waning strength and joint deterioration. While your vet might be able to lend a hand with prescriptions, there are also several devices that can help support your senior pooch. An orthopedic bed can keep your dog comfortable at rest, or if your aging dog struggles to regulate body temperature, a heated bedmight be your best bet. Elevated bowls can mean eating in a more comfortable posture, and there are lifting harnesses for helping your dog navigate steps. Whatever your canine companion requires, you can shop online and save money by using offers such as Walmart coupons, which can help keep everything you need within your budget.

Watching his Weight

Being overweight can contribute to mobility issues in older dogs. In fact, Modern Dog Magazine describes weight loss as Fido’s best defense against arthritis. With that in mind, give your dog a careful once-over. If you aren’t sure, one rule of thumb is to feel your dog’s rib area, and if the rib cage has disappeared under a layer of fat, chances are your pooch is overweight.

You should select a dog food designed specifically for seniors, as there are choices with joint support and lower amounts of fat. Follow the feeding guidelines the manufacturer recommends. If your dog is still on the heavy side, adjust his amount of food or activity level. Stretch your dog food budget by buying from stores like Chewy, who offers a discount when you sign up for automatic shipments and a wide array of senior dog foods to meet your dog’s needs.

Keeping on the Go

Senior dogs often aren’t as spry as their younger counterparts, but that doesn’t mean they need to become couch potatoes. Animal Wellness Magazine explains that older dogs can benefit from participating in age-appropriate sports such as modified agility competition and obedience training. You can even do things to help keep your dog’s mind sharp. In spite of the common expression, you really can teach an old dog new tricks, such as fetching particular toys, high-five, or even picking up his toys when he’s finished playing. To keep things interesting, consider subscribing to BarkBox. They will send your pooch goodies each month at a discounted price, and you can save even more by checking out their current deals.

Get a Second Dog

Our dogs often benefit from having a buddy to pal around with, especially if your lifestyle doesn’t lend itself to providing your dog with much of a social life. Some experts note that not so long ago, dogs led much more interactive lives than they do now, and having a second dog can often be a boon. Some older dogs don’t like change, but if your pooch is normally pretty sociable, it could be a terrific lift to his spirits and help him stay more active at the same time.

Adding a dog can be a more affordable option by adopting through a shelter or rescue. The pets are normally much less expensive than those through pet shops and breeders, and they come with their vaccines, grooming, and vetting up-to-date. Those organizations will often agree to a meet-and-greet as well so you can see if your dog and the new friend get along. You can explore dogs available for adoption through websites such as PetFinder, and if you create an account, they have special offersavailable to members.

Senior dogs are sweet, rewarding companions. To keep your aging friend going strong during those golden years, find ways to support his health and happiness. You don’t need to spend a fortune, and you can both enjoy the benefits.

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Responsibility during winter with dogs

12/31/2017

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how cold is too cold? Here is a chart. Now have a plan for your furry loved one.
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The importance of doing it right.

12/30/2017

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http://www.campuschroniclenews.com/an-argument-for-ethical-dog-breeders/
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The Undeniable Connection Between Dogs and Mental Wellbeing

9/26/2017

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 The Undeniable Connection Between Dogs and Mental Wellbeing

People the world over are facing a perplexing predicament. As Antioch University documents, mental health issues are on the rise across the board. The confounding aspect of this problem is that while these mental health issues rise, resources to correct mental health problems are increasingly rare. Therapy and medications must be considered as aides to our mental health struggles, but for some these may be too expensive or impractical for other reasons. One step that most can take to help aid their mental health, however, is to get a dog.




How Widespread is the Problem?

The National Alliance on Mental Illness makes it clear just how widespread mental health disorders have become. It’s estimated that 1 in every 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness each year. The same rate applies to youth aged 13-18. It’s clear, mental health is under siege, and the consequences of untreated mental health are massive.

Severe depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses often carry the cost of lost jobs and careers gone unfulfilled. The total of lost earnings due to mental health are approximately $193.2 billion. Mental Health America also reveals some alarming statistics about the state of mental health in America.

It’s estimated that 56% of adults in America have not received treatment for a mental illness. Making this issue worse is the statistic that only 1 in 1,000 professionals specialize in treating mental disorders. Most concerning is the rise in mental health disorders among the youth. In 2011, 8.5% of youth were found to have depression. That rate was 11.1% only three years later. All of these stats aren’t meant to scare. They’re only meant to make it clear how important finding cures or aides for our mental wellbeing are.

If You’re Suffering, Consider a Dog

Dogs provide their owners so many things. They are constant companions that add joy to otherwise boring exercise and often compel us to socialize with other dog owners. But dogs’ greatest asset to humans may be their ability to help those suffering from mental health disorders.

The British Journal of Health Psychology lets us know how dogs can benefit our physical health. Dogs have been shown to help prevent us from becoming sick, provide early warnings for major health problems, and make us more likely to recover. But many physical ailments arise from chronic mental deficits, so dogs’ boosts to our mental wellbeing are as notable as these physical perks.

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy found that for those suffering from serious mental illness, owning a pet makes them more likely to socialize. The American Psychological Association’s PsycNet explains how pets help those in recovery from mental illness, as well as addiction. They help their owners provide empathy to others. Pets can help these people re-establish social connections and activities that may have been lost due to initial sobriety or mental suffering. And, they serve as companions while providing a sense of responsibility and self-efficacy for their owners.

Each of these benefits are critical to those who are prone to anxiety, depression, addiction, or other disorders related to mental health. The elderly, too – who may be prone to depression due to the degradation of their bodies and minds – should engage in interaction with dogs. Even if they cannot handle the responsibility of ownership, it’s been proven that interaction with pets improve cognitive function and symptoms of depression.

Conclusion

Lassie, Old Yeller, and Air Bud are all inspirational stories. Stories – true and fictional – of dogs’ inspiration and loyalty to humans make for great entertainment. But the more truthful, serious fact about dogs is that they can, in many cases, be the difference between life and death. Mental illness often brings with it irrevocable consequences including suicide, and loneliness and mental illness go hand-in-hand. Dogs, whether you choose to own or merely interact with them, can be the source of companionship and love that so many with mental disorders yearn for and need.

documents
https://www.antioch.edu/auonline/2017/03/03/mental-health-issues-america-rise-2/



increasingly rare
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/mental-illness-is-on-the-rise-but-access-to-care-keeps-dwindling_us_58ee9a13e4b0da2ff85de60a



makes it clear
https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers



alarming statistics
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/issues/state-mental-health-america



lets us know 
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1348/135910706X103284/full



found 
https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1865818



explains
http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-18738-017



Pets can help
http://www.drugrehab.org/adopting-companion-animal-recovery-addiction/



proven
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1479-8301.2010.00329.x/full





documents
https://www.antioch.edu/auonline/2017/03/03/mental-health-issues-america-rise-2/



increasingly rare
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/mental-illness-is-on-the-rise-but-access-to-care-keeps-dwindling_us_58ee9a13e4b0da2ff85de60a



makes it clear
https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers



alarming statistics
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/issues/state-mental-health-america



lets us know 
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1348/135910706X103284/full



found 
https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1865818



explains
http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-18738-017



Pets can help
http://www.drugrehab.org/adopting-companion-animal-recovery-addiction/



proven
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1479-8301.2010.00329.x/full



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Here are Some Home Buying Tips for Dog Owners

8/31/2017

2 Comments

 
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Here are Some Home Buying Tips for Dog Owners







Your dog is more than a pet. She’s a member of your family. So of course you want to consider her well-being when looking for your new home. But what do you need to account for during this all-important process? This post will cover the facts to keep in mind when searching a dog friendly residence.

Check the Rules

Some communities do everything possible to encourage responsible pet ownership. Others try hard to discourage animal lovers from moving in. Many could care less either way, so long as you keep your pooch out of your neighbor's flower beds. It’s important to know which is the case before settling on your new place to live. Here are some problems you might run into:

● Rules that restrict the number or kinds of pets you can own. These may take the form of private covenants or public laws. Whichever is the case, you should check with the city/country offices or homeowners association to ensure your furry friend is welcome in your prospective new dwelling.
● Regulations such as leash laws, vaccination requirements, and dog owner fees. The purpose of these restrictions is to ensure both animal welfare and public safety. The penalties for disregarding them can include hefty fines or even confiscation of your pet. So take the time to educate yourself on these matters before deciding where to relocate.
● The attitude of your potential neighbors towards dog ownership. There are many ways an animal hater can make trouble for new faces. So go out and meet the locals, preferably while walking your dog. Reconsider the move if they seem hostile or hesitant towards your four-legged friend.

Check the Layout

Some homes are more pet-friendly than others. Here’s how to match your prospective residence to your dog’s needs:

● Most dogs love carpet - sometimes a little too much. Purging your new rugs of the flowery fragrance that comes from a puppy potty break is challenging at best, impossible at worst. This is true no matter how many anti-stain and anti-odor features the carpet is supposed to have. Many dog owners prefer flooring materials like laminate and tile are to carpeting. Perhaps you should too.
● All dogs love the outdoors. Make sure the home’s fenced-in yard is large enough for your animal, even if she spends most of her time indoors. You should also ensure the existing fencing is up to the job of reigning in your pet. Dogs are clever and tenacious when it comes to escaping the confines of safety. You must safeguard them from making a potentially fatal mistake.

Helping your Dog Adjust to a New Home

Relocating can confuse or frighten your pet. She may have a hard time understanding why you’ve uprooted them from familiar surroundings. Here are some ways you can help her adjust to your new home:

● Provide your dog with familiar objects like a favorite bed or chew toy. Your pet will recognize the smells of home and associate them with her new location.
● Show your pooch a little extra love during the first few weeks after the move. Give her extra treats, walk her more often, and do everything you can to help her identify the new home with praise and rewards.
● Maintain familiar routines. Keeping your schedule as close as possible to patterns in your old home can reassure pets that everything is okay.

And Now Some Tips for Selling Your Current Home

Selling your existing home before you move is wise. Otherwise you may find yourself saddled with two mortgages or rent payments. Here are some tips for making sure your current residence sells in a timely fashion:

● First appearances are everything. Make sure your home’s exterior is as welcoming as possible.
● Fill dark corners with light and empty spaces with furnishings. Buyers want to picture themselves enjoying life in the home. It’s hard for them to do so when the place seems empty or foreboding.
● Freshen the air. Pet owners often accustom themselves to odors that may assault the noses of new arrivals. So make an extra effort to clean up pet stains and keep everything smelling as pleasant as possible. Never try to cover malodors with sprays or other products, however. This will only alert the buyer that you’re trying to hide something.

Keeping these tips in mind will help every member of your family to feel at home in your new residence. Good luck and happy pet owning!


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Puppy and dog vaccines and what they mean

7/5/2017

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German Shepherd puppies available April 2017

2/28/2017

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WDR Azaria Vom Godinghoffer of Summerland

2/28/2017

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Congrats to Azaria for her First place finish in the Royal Cannin National Dog Show in Orlando Florida

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Wolves den ranch opportunity is knocking

2/28/2017

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