Tennis Balls

TENNIS BALLS

I have heard that tennis balls are bad for your dogs teeth so I asked my dog's vet, and he said basically what I have read. The fussy outer layer of tennis balls can lead to wear of your dogs teeth. Also if your dog chews the tennis ball into pieces and swallows these small bits of ball it could cause an obstruction. Their are many safer dog designed balls at any pet store.  If your like me, you most likely will continue to use tennis balls throw them away when cracked so the dog doesn't eat any pieces. If your dog is more interested in chewing the fuss then playing catch take the balls away unless you are monitoring the situation.

Dogs can’t lie but they can manipulate

Dogs can’t lie but they can manipulate

I watched my dogs interact and if one dog had a toy or bone the other dog wants, plans need to be implemented. The dog chewing happily on the bone knowing full well the other dog is waiting for the chance to nab it. Suddenly the dog without, runs to the window starts barking and carrying on. The dog reluctantly leaves the bone to see what all the commotions, is about. The dog that didn’t have the bone originally rushes back and grabs the bone. Mission accomplished!  Dogs often take advantage of opportunity when the owners away they will play. Going on couches or beds when they know they aren’t allowed. Counter surfing when you leave the kitchen. Going in the bathroom’s waste basket, and retrieving an empty toilet paper roll if the bathroom door is left open. The list goes on but really this is just a behaviour strategy to get what they want.  Lies no but maneuvers developed to reach goals, definitely.

 

                         Not suppose to bite the ball just push it with her nose she has other ideas

AMBER DOG COLLARS FOR FLEAS AND TICKS

   Amber actually is a fossil, but this yellowish orange stone seems to have properties that can repel Fleas and Ticks on our pets. It is a safe holistic method being used on our pets, instead of using chemicals. The Amber works two ways, the first way is Amber has an aroma that bothers fleas and ticks. Also Amber is know for its electrostatic properties. So friction occurs when the pets fur rubs against the Amber collar, which generates a shock to a tick that jumps on your dog.

Check out these website on Amber pet collars
www.amberstonepets.com
www.sparkofamber.com

KNOW THY DOG'S NEXT SCHEDULED CLASS

COME MEET CASSIE OUR CPR DOG

 JOIN OUR NEXT CANINE FIRST AID CLASS SATURDAY MARCH  8th, 15th, and 22nd

                                                        from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

This nine hour course will teach you how to deal with many Emergency and First Aid situations.
 as well as general care. 
                                                          

Contact Julia Moffat
613-697-7966 or email me at knowthydog@yahoo.ca

RESTRAINT

RESTRAINT

No animal likes to be restrained, but in order to care for your dog properly you will need    to know a few restraining techniques.

Often we need to restrain our dogs for their own good. We need to be able to groom them, trim there nails, clean their ears, express anal glands, brush their teeth, give them medication: the list goes on forever.

 

Your dog’s veterinarian needs to be able to examine your dog and someone needs to hold him so your Vet can accurately determine your dog’s health.

A stressed dog can be unpredictable and an injured dog even more distressed and difficult to control. A dog in pain may bite, even his owner, unintentionally. So you need to know how to restrain your dog for everyone’s best interest.

I will go over a few methods of restraint. Remember, less restraint is always better. Stay calm but be firm. Heavy restraint can cause your dog to struggle, escalating his fear and further stressing the situation.

 NECKHOLD                                                              

The neck hold is the most common and reassuring restraint. This restraint stops the dog from turning its head around and biting. This is a great hold for cutting nails if nail trimming is a two person job. Cradle your dog’s head and wrap your arm around his neck. Using the other arm give your dog support under his chest.

Petting and talking softly always helps the dog to remain calm and to distract the dog from the task at hand.

                                                         

STRING MUZZLE

When examining a dog that is aggressive or disoriented a string muzzle may be necessary. A long shoe lace will do. Simply loop the shoe lace or rope into a loop. Loop the muzzle of your dog. You can wrap around the muzzle again then tie in a bow behind his head. Use a bow not a knot for easier release. Some dogs can get so stressed being muzzled that there gums may turn bluish or purple: if so, then remove the muzzle immediately. Never muzzle a dog whose breathing is restricted.

 

LEG HOLD

The leg hold starts off by laying your dog on either of his sides. Kneel on the ground facing the back side of your dog. Leaning over the spine take hold of both the front and back legs that are closest to the ground. Use your arm to lie across the dog’s neck. This hold prevents your dog from being able to get up.

 

 

PILLOW HOLD

 

Another method of restraint for shorter procedures is the pillow hold. This is a gentler form of restraint. The pillow hold keeps the dog from turning around to bite while being examined.  

 

Jenna Stregowski, RVT - About.com Dogs WHAT IS A BACK YARD BREEDER?

 Being a responsible pet owner starts by being informed

The term "backyard breeder" is often used to describe dog breeders with little experience or knowledge. Typically, they breed dogs without taking the time to make good genetic matches, or to have dogs registered through the appropriate kennel club/breed club. Though the backyard breeder is not considered to be as unethical at those who run puppy mills, one can consider a backyard breeder the opposite of a responsible dog breeder.
Some backyard breeders are just looking to make a profit off of so-called purebred dogs that they own. They let them breed together without knowledge of their family histories (health and behavioral, in particular). They pay little or no attention to genetic health issues in both the parents and the puppies. They often charge less money for the puppies than a responsible breeder, but still more money than they should (no one should pay for puppies that were bred carelessly). These dogs may seem less expensive, but in the long run you may end up paying more for these dogs when health issues develop. In many cases, these breeders will not take back the puppies if something goes wrong. Never trust a breeder who won't guarantee the puppies.
There are other cases where someone has dogs that were accidentally bred and a litter of puppies was the result. Or, a family decided to breed its dogs "just one time" or "just for fun." These methods are not recommended, as the result could be unhealthy and/or unwanted puppies (and there are way too many homeless pets out there already). These people are not usually aware of the fact that their actions are unethical. However, if they try to charge money for the puppies, it is unethical. Be aware: even if you get a free puppy from this situation, you may or may not end up with an unhealthy dog down the road. In these situations, it is best to ask the dog owners to spay and neuter their dogs (they need to stop breeding the dogs). If you don't mind getting a puppy with unknown genetic history, go to your local shelter or rescue group. You can find a cute puppy that had already been checked by a vet.

How to Avoid Irresponsible Dog Breeders

Have you decided that you are ready to get a dog? If you are determined to get a purebred puppy, then you will probably want to start looking for a dog breeder. If "papers" (registration) or parentage are not important to you, then you should consider adoption instead. Seek out a breed-specific rescue group or even your local animal shelter. If you care about dogs, one of the worst things you can do is purchase a dog from an irresponsible breeder. Perhaps the only thing worse is purchasing a puppy from a pet store. Supporting a business that puts profit over the welfare of its animals is not something a dog lover would do.
When you find a dog breeder, it is essential that you check references. Talk to other families that have purchased dogs from that breeder. Check that the breeder is affiliated with the local and national breed clubs and a national kennel club (such as the AKC). Most importantly, make sure you visit the breeding facility and meet the puppies' parents (mother at least).

Questions to Ask The Dog Breeder

• What type of care is required for this specific breed? Does the breed have specific needs I should be aware of? The breeder should be able to give you detailed answers that confirm what you have learned from your own research on the breed.
• How long have you been breeding dogs? How long have you bred this specific dog breed? It should be several years, and the breeder will have ideally worked with a mentor in the beginning (someone else who had worked with the breed for a long time).
• Do you sell your dogs online or to pet stores? If the answer is "yes," walk away.
• Can I visit the facility where you breed your dogs? If the answer is "no," walk away.
• Can I meet the litter of puppies and their mother (and father if possible)? If the answer is "no," walk away.
• What is the health and behavior history of this line (parents, grandparents, etc)? The breeder should be able to tell you about the dogs going back a couple of generations.
• What genetic issues do you test the adult dogs for before breeding? What tests do the puppies get before you sell them? Research the breed and find out what tests (OFA, CERT, etc.) are recommended by the national breed club. If this breeder has not tested the dogs, you should look for another breeder.
• What happens if my dog is diagnosed with a hereditary disease? The answer should be that the breeder will take back the dog, and/or refund all or part of the fee you paid for the dog, and/or work with you to have the dog treated (if you want to keep the dog).
• What happens if I can no longer keep my dog? The breeder should tell you that you can return the dog if at any time in the dog's lifetime you determine you cannot keep it.

When talking to or meeting with a dog breeder, you must look at the facts, but also go with your gut. If something does not feel right, ask questions. If you have any doubts that the breeder is responsible, your best bet is to walk away. Start from square one, looking only for a responsible dog breeder.

Getting a New Dog

• Are You Ready to Get a Dog?
• How to Choose the Right Dog
• Where to Get Your New Dog

Related Articles

• How To Choose A Reputable Dog Breeder
• About Dogs - FAQ - Can you help me find a dog breeder?
• About Dogs - FAQ - How do I know if a dog breeder is a good breeder?
• About.com Dogs - How To Tell If Your Dog Breeder Is A Responsible One
• Responsible Dog Ownership - Be a Responsible Dog Owner

Quitting smoking is commendable but please, read link !

READING LINK BELOW COULD SAVE YOUR DOGS LIFE

http://www.dogheirs.com/elleng/posts/5158-dog-owner-warns-that-e-cigarettes-are-a-serious-danger-to-dogs-after-his-puppy-dies

PLEASE SUPPORT TESSA and Check out the Auction

Auction Link - http://gsncr2014.eflea.ca/

 

Come join the Greyhound Supporters online! Over 35 fabulous items to bid on including vintage greyhound decor, customized digital art, toys, books, and much more!

 

Auction Opens and Bidding Starts: Saturday February 15, 2014 @ 7:00 AM EST

Auction Closes: Sunday February 23, 2014 @ 9:00 PM EST

 

The Greyhound Supporters took in a lovely brindle foster by the name of Tessa in September 2013. This auction has been set up to help the Greyhound Supporters offset costs related to Tessa’s toe amputation and recovery vet bills. We were very fortunate that the Cedarview Animal Hospital was generous and discounted Tessa’s care, however the final cost was still over $2000.00. With your help, we will be able to offset the cost of the surgery, medication and ongoing vet support required to ensure that Tessa’s new life in retirement begins on the “right foot”. (Full details regarding Tessa`s condition and treatment are available at the above auction link on the “Welcome” page).

 

Join the FB events page for auction  information and updates!

https://www.facebook.com/events/307715739376319/

Auction Information

Winning bidders will be contacted at the end of the auction to make arrangements for payment and shipping or pickup of their items. Shipping charges may apply, please contact begin.mel@gsncr.ca to confirm final total before making payment.

Payment Types Accepted:PayPal - This auction accepts payments via PayPal. If you are a high bidder when the auction closes, a payment by PayPal button will appear in the "My Items" section. Pay for your winning items by credit card via PayPal, the safe and easy way to pay online. A PayPal account is not required.

Cash – if picking up item.

Cheque – if paying by cheque, please make it out to the “Greyhound Supporters of the NCR”.

Shipping:All applicable shipping, customs, and brokerage fees are the sole responsibility of the winning bidder. A shipping cost will be provided and added to your total after the auction has ended.

Please note, due to import/export restrictions any items containing canine treats are only available to Canadian bidders.

Shipping is limited to within North America.

Please contact us prior to making a payment so that we may provide you with any shipping charges.

 

Pick-up:All items are available for pick-up within Ottawa, Ontario (unless otherwise stated in item description).

All items MUST be picked up by the winning bidder within 14 days of the auction closing.

For questions regarding this auction, please contact the Auction Administrator by email at begin.mel@gsncr.ca.

Many thanks for your support.

 

 

Heterochromia

Heterochromia this is a genetic condition, where the Iris of the eyes are different colours.

Unusual in most breeds, but not uncommon in Huskies, Great Danes, Dalmatians, and Australian

Shepherds. Normally inherited, heterochromia is the lack of melanine pigment in the Iris.

Vision is not affected by this condition. Heterochromia gives the dog a unique quality to their

appearance.

 

 

Arthritis one topic, we discuss in Know Thy Dog Canine First Aid Class

ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a painful disease it is the inflammation of joints. This age related disease affects 70% of dogs. Other dogs touched by Arthritis are Sport or working dogs that are extremely active causing more wear and tear on their joints. Trauma to joints is another common factor related to this disease. Some large breeds are especially prone to joint problems (Hip or Elbow Dysplasia).

There are many things we can do to help our pets manage this disease.

The first major control is keeping your dog’s weight regulated. Any extra weight causes

stress on the dog’s joints. Arthritis is a joint disease where the spacing and synovial fluid between the joints has deteriorated. This means the joint’s bones can rub against each other causing inflammation and a lot of discomfort for the sufferer. The joints become stiff and painful to move. Dog becomes less mobile and again weight can be gained because of lack of exercise.  There are many ways to help your dog cope with arthritis, one way is massage, also Infra -red massage, using heat and light to help relief pain. Hydrotherapy pools are available where your dog can exercise in a warm salt water pool relaxing and help strengthen muscle around inflamed joints with no or low impact on the joint during exercise. Tread milling your dog you then have control of the speed and distance your dog walks. Also if it’s cold outside or slippery terrain you can keep your dog safe and warm. The cold aggravates arthritis so exercising inside in the extremely cold winter days will help.

 Manufactures have developed heated dog beds or magnetic beds to help alleviate discomfort. Having lift aids to help your dog with stairs or getting up can also benefit your dog.

Drugs like Non–steroid anti-inflammatories seem to help but unfortunately have some side effects. Glucosamine combined with chrodroitin is also used to help support joint care. There are Dog Foods and treats that are geared to help with mobility. Traumeel is a holistic cream or pill which helps with inflammation.

Build muscle with ¼ teaspoon of coconut oil MCT per 10 pounds in your dog’s food. Also helps breakdown lipomas.

A new treatment that seems to be very affective is cold laser therapy. It helps heal cells increases blood flow. People are swearing by this newer method for managing arthritis.

So the best approach for helping your dog deal with Arthritis is weight control, exercise management, medications, and a warm, draft free bed. 

ONE DAY YOU MIGHT NEED THIS!

 

As dog owners we need to be proactive in maintaining our dogs health care.

 

Learn Emergency First Aid and General Care, no one knows your dog like you do! Practical hands on First Aid instruction, we will build your confidence to help you better understand and treat your dog.  Improve your relationship with your dog's Veterinarian by being a better advocate for your pet. You don't need to feel helpless. Learn AR, CPR, on our canine mannequin Cassie.  Practice choking sequences and much more.  We teach everything from recording vitals, wound care to removing ticks, and we tailor the course to your needs. A in depth reference manual is included with every course.

We come to your home and teach you on your dog, we also teach out of dog friendly facilities.

Contact Julia Moffat
 www.knowthydog.com
  613-697-7966

SHARE WORTHY

 

IF YOU ARE A DOG OWNER CHECK OUT THIS LINK ITS WORTH IT!

 

http://www.reshareworthy.com/20-facts-for-dog-lovers/

 

 

 

 

SALIVA

Saliva helps your dog swallow their food and move the food down the esophagus. Saliva also has lysozyme, an enzyme which has antibacterial qualities. When your dog licks a sore, saliva could have beneficial effects on cuts. It could work to the dogs advantage to keep the cut clean. Unfortunately many dogs just keep licking and the sore never gets the chance to dry and the dog does more damage than good to the wound site.

OPEN HOUSE AT CANINE TOUCH AND TELL

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

                                
                                               HAPPY VALENTINE'S FROM KNOW THY DOG

OVER VACCINATING OUR PETS

Please for your pets sake watch this podcast Then talk to your dog's vet!

http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/podcast-1/

   This is a titer test which costs about $30.00 you may want to tell you veterinarian, you know these test kits are available and for only $30.00 not $300.00

YAWNING

        YAWNING A FORM OF CANINE COMMUNICATION

Dogs yawn to let us know they are stressed or trying to relieve a stressful situation. Being aware of your dog’s body language, when they are anxious, yawning is one indicator to easily pick up on. Yawning helps calm your dog down. Dogs will yawn when other dogs approach that they may not be sure if there is a threat. Often my dog yawns during training and it’s usually time for me to introduce play.  Frustration is another time a big wide open yawn and a heavy breath is expelled. Watch your dog yawning and decipher the reason. Dog also do yawn like humans when they are fatigued.

 

Guinness Book of World Records

Augie the Golden Retriever holds the record of holding 5 regulation sized tennis balls in his mouth at once. This is quite a feat because I tried to get anyone of our 4 dogs to try and the results weren't to impressive.

 

OH NO NOT AGAIN SUBMISSIVE PEEING

Many puppies including some adults submissive pee, leaving dribbles of urine on the floor. Often when meeting new people, or other dogs, or when the excitement gets to be too much for them. Really submissive urination is a dog’s way of telling you that you are in charge. They are showing you that they are not the alpha. The best way to deal with submissive peeing is reacting calmly without angry. The dog already feels insecure to the new situations. Your job will be to make the dog feel secure. Training your puppy to sit and stay will build her confidence. The dog will then understand what he should do in new circumstances.  In time your dog will sit instead of peeing in new situations.  

COMMON EYE AILMENTS (CONJUNCTIVITIS)

If your dog's eye or eyes are bothering him, many of the symptoms are the same for many different conditions. The dogs may be pawing at his eyes, they may be red, itchy, watering, have a discharge. You will need to check out the eyes and try and determine what the problem is.
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the eye lid and lining around the eye. If there is a discharge, and redness, but seem eyes seem painless this is usually indicates Conjunctivitis. If the discharge is green and the eyes seem painful contact your dogs Veterinarian. 

All topical medication, whether it is ointment, cream or liquid, comes with directions.  The directions will recommend the amounts and how many times a day the medication should be applied. Your veterinarian may give you special instructions that may differ from the package: if so, always follow your veterinarian’s advice.

 

                                                     Drawing by Matthew Bourgeois

ADMINISTRATING EYE OINTMENT

If your dog’s eyes are red, itchy or swollen you can apply an eye ointment like Polysporin ophthalmic. If this condition persists you should call your veterinarian as your dog could have a scratched cornea or ulcers, both these conditions need veterinarian care.

Your veterinarian may prescribe eye ointments or drops. It may take two of you to give the eye drops. One person can hold the dog and the other person to administer the medication. Hold the dog’s head apply a few drops to either corner of the dog’s eye. Make sure the tip of the applicator doesn’t touch the eye. Bacteria could transfer to the eye medication applicator.

If using ointment a thin layer is applied across the dog’s eye. Follow label on medication.

Canine Touch and Tell

Canine Touch and Tell, has an Open House on the 15th Feb from 10-3 at 360 Croydon (Off Carling at Lincoln Fields Mall). Not only is there information on the benefits of massage for your dog, Sandy Benoit will also demonstrate her skills. There is also nail clipping, pet psychic, Know thy dog First Aid for dogs and demonstrations on the benefits of Fit Ball. She would love to see you there!