The Reasons Behind a Panting Dog

By Alex De La Cruz

Have you ever ask your self the question, “why do dogs pant?” Or did you ever wonder the reason behind it? Well, humans don’t pant so why should you bother yourself regarding a panting dog? Actually if you have that curiosity you have already ask that question but you just did not bother to find nature’s explanation. If you are stricken by intense heat what do you do? Maybe you will fan yourself, enjoy a cool smoothie, plunge into the pool or any sort of refreshments. As for the dogs they can’t do those things. They just pant and that is the reason behind a panting dog. Read more

Dog Parks: Pros and Cons

By Paul Owens

Dog Parks. What a great idea! Imagine being able to take your buddy to a big, open field and letting him or her safely play and run around with dozens of other dogs. What a great way to provide exercise, especially for those rambunctious, high-energy teenagers that often become destructive and “self-employed” at home when they have nothing else to do. How many of us have come home to torn sofa cushions, shredded plants, neighbors complaining about incessant barking, etc.? Read more

New Year’s Resolutions – A Healthier Dog

By Laura Garber, CPDT

With the holidays behind us, we’ve all packed on a few extra pounds, even our beloved canine family members. So, as you determine your own New Year’s resolutions, make sure that you consider making some healthy resolutions for him as well. Fortunately some of our everyday tricks make for a great workout and, given the cold and inclement weather outside, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s plenty you can do inside! Read more

Is It Okay To Leave Your Dog Outside?

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) suggests that pets all pets should stay indoors with their family.  However, don’t mistaken this to mean your dog should never be allowed to go outside.  The HSUS recommends that your dog spend time outside when supervised and under control.

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Implementing Pet Safety In Your Backyard

When your dog is left in your backyard, you can never take too high of a safety measure when protecting your dog from possible harm and / or injury. It’s better to be safe than sorry when leaving your dog in your backyard.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends you take the following safety precautions:

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Hazardous Plants To Dogs

Were you aware that dogs eat certain types of plants, it can make your dog feel sick or can be even fatal?  Here are a list of some plants that can be hazardous to your dog:

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Getting Your Dog Café-Ready

I share my life with a German Shepherd Dog named Trista. From the very start of our life together, I trained her to hold a good down-stay. For those first weeks and months, we actively practiced everywhere: at home, on park benches, in sidewalk cafés. The first stages required frequent food reinforcement, or reward, to keep her attentive and working. As she became more consistent, I spaced out the food rewards, relying more on verbal encouragement. And with more time, she accomplished fairly long stretches with no attention from me at all.

Developing this behavior in your dog just takes careful, thorough practice with gradual progression. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial that will help you get your dog café-ready:

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Before Visiting The Park

If you’re a dog owner fortunate enough to live near a dog park, you know they are fun places for your dog to play with other dogs. Summer is a great time to visit a dog park for fresh air, healthy exercise, and socialization for both dogs and people.

Dr. Sheila McCullough, formerly a veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana, says that before visiting a dog park, owners should recognize risks associated with interactions with other dogs and take precautions to minimize these risks.

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