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Keeping Your Pets Safe During 4th of July Fireworks Celebrations
Keeping Your Pets Safe During 4th of July Fireworks Celebrations The 4th of July is a time of celebration, marked by barbecues, parades, and fireworks. While these festivities are enjoyable for us, they can be a source of stress and danger for our pets. More pets go missing around and on the Fourth of July than any other holiday, says Arizona Humane Society. The loud noises, flashing lights, and general commotion can cause anxiety and fear in animals, leading to potential escape attempts or injury. Here are some essential tips to keep your furry friends safe and calm during Independence Day celebrations. 1. Create a Safe Space Before the fireworks begin, set up a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your pet can retreat. This could be a cozy corner of a room or a crate covered with a blanket to muffle the sounds. Make sure this space is stocked with their favorite toys, bedding, and some treats. 2. Keep Them Indoors Even if your pet is used to being outside, it's best to keep them indoors during fireworks. The unfamiliar noises and bright flashes can startle them, increasing the risk of them running away or getting injured. Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are securely closed to prevent any accidental escapes. 3. Use Calming Techniques There are various ways to help calm your pet during fireworks. Some pets respond well to background noise, such as playing soft music or turning on the television. You might also consider using pheromone diffusers or calming collars, which release natural scents that can help reduce anxiety. 4. Stay With Them If possible, stay home with your pets during the fireworks. Your presence can provide reassurance and comfort. Try to remain calm and composed, as pets can pick up on your emotions. Engage them with toys or activities to distract them from the noise outside. 5. Consult Your Veterinarian If your pet has a severe fear of fireworks, consult your veterinarian. They can provide advice on anxiety-reducing techniques and may prescribe medication if necessary. Never give your pet any medication without consulting a professional. 6. Ensure Proper Identification In case your pet does escape, it's crucial to have proper identification. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID tag. Consider having them microchipped as an added precaution. This can significantly increase the chances of your pet being returned to you if they get lost. 7. Keep Hazardous Items Out of Reach Fireworks, sparklers, and other celebratory items can be dangerous if ingested by pets. Ensure that these items are stored out of reach and properly disposed of after use. 8. Plan Ahead Preparation is key. Start acclimating your pet to the sounds of fireworks well in advance by playing recordings at a low volume and gradually increasing it. This can help them become desensitized to the noise over time. Additionally, plan your day so that your pet has had plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before the evening’s festivities begin, which can help them feel more relaxed. Conclusion By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your pet stays safe and calm during the 4th of July celebrations. Remember, a little preparation and attention can go a long way in preventing stress and keeping your furry friend happy. Have a happy and safe Independence Day!
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Protect Your Furry Friend and Your Wallet: Discover the Benefits of Pet Insurance
Protect Your Furry Friend and Your Wallet: Discover the Benefits of Pet Insurance Why Every Pet Parent Should Consider Investing in Pet Insurance for a Lifetime of Peace of Mind By 4Knines Founders, Jim & Maggie Hey there, fellow pet parent! We all know how much our furry companions mean to us and how they become a cherished part of our families. They bring us so much joy and happiness. But just like us, pets can also face health issues and accidents. And when those unexpected veterinary expenses come knocking, they can really put a strain on our finances, forcing us to make tough decisions. We know first-hand what it is like to have an injured pup and hearing from the vet surgery is going to be $4,000 - $5,000. Our dobie Ana tore both her ACLs in her knees when she was only 3 years old. Two different surgeries! Both of which were over $4,000 to repair. It would have been difficult to come up with that kind of money out of the blue, but we would have done whatever we needed to get her back on her feet. Thankfully, we had good pet insurance. Having that coverage made all the difference in providing her with the best care possible without the financial stress that comes from surprise bills like that. We know first-hand what it is like to have an injured pup and hearing from the vet surgery is going to be $4,000 - $5,000. Our dobie Ana tore both her ACLs in her knees when she was only 3 years old. Two different surgeries! Both of which were over $4,000 to repair. It would have been difficult to come up with that kind of money out of the blue, but we would have done whatever we needed to get her back on her feet. Thankfully, we had good pet insurance. Having that coverage made all the difference in providing her with the best care possible without the financial stress that comes from surprise bills like that. Pet insurance is basically health insurance for your furry friend. It offers financial protection by covering a portion of your pet's medical expenses. Pet insurance is such a smart move for any pet owner, giving you peace of mind and long-term cost savings. For us, it has been invaluable protection for our dogs that unfortunately, we have needed to use multiple times. 1. Comprehensive Coverage for Veterinary Costs One of the main reasons to consider getting pet insurance is the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive coverage for veterinary costs. Our pets, just like us, can face various health issues throughout their lives. They might have accidents, develop illnesses, or even have genetic conditions. And let's face it, medical treatments and surgeries can be quite expensive. Pet insurance ensures that your furry best friend receives the best care without draining your bank account. Depending on the policy you choose, it can cover a wide range of services, including consultations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and even rehabilitation therapies. With veterinary costs on the rise, having insurance can truly make a world of difference when it comes to providing your pet with the treatment they need and deserve. 2. Financial Protection from Unexpected Expenses Life loves throwing surprises at us, and unfortunately, some of them can lead to unexpected veterinary expenses. Whether it's a sudden illness or an accident, these unforeseen circumstances can catch us off guard, both emotionally and financially. But when you have pet insurance, you're protected from the financial strain associated with these unexpected bills. With pet insurance, you pay a regular premium that is usually a small amount compared to the potential costs of veterinary treatments. In return, the insurance provider helps cover the expenses related to your pet's healthcare. This financial cushion allows you to focus on your pet's well-being rather than worrying about how to afford their medical needs. With the right pet insurance plan, you can navigate these challenging times with confidence, knowing that your beloved companion will receive the necessary care without putting a strain on your wallet. 3. Peace of Mind in the Face of Uncertainty Our pets bring us immeasurable joy, love, and companionship, but sometimes their health can be unpredictable. No matter how careful we are, accidents can happen, and illnesses can strike without warning. In these moments of uncertainty, having pet insurance can bring invaluable peace of mind. Knowing that you have a safety net in place allows you to make decisions based on your pet's best interests rather than financial constraints. Instead of worrying about the cost of a procedure or treatment, you can focus on what truly matters: ensuring your pet's health and well-being. With pet insurance, you can explore all available options for your pet's care, including consultations with specialists, advanced diagnostics, or surgeries that may have been financially challenging otherwise. 4. Long-Term Cost Savings While pet insurance provides immediate financial assistance during unexpected situations, it also offers long-term cost savings that are worth considering. By investing in pet insurance early on, you can secure coverage for your pet at a younger age when they are less likely to have pre-existing conditions. This can result in lower premiums and broader coverage, giving you access to a wider range of services without worrying about exclusions. Moreover, pet insurance encourages proactive and preventative healthcare. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and early detection of potential health issues can help prevent costly treatments in the future. Many pet insurance policies include coverage for routine wellness care, such as vaccinations, annual exams, dental cleanings, and preventive medications. By staying ahead of potential health problems through preventive care, you can save money in the long run by avoiding more expensive treatments or surgeries down the line. Conclusion Pet insurance is more than just a safety net; it's an investment in your pet's health and well-being. By providing comprehensive coverage, financial protection from unexpected expenses, peace of mind, and long-term cost savings, pet insurance offers incredible benefits for any pet owner. As pet parents, it's our responsibility to ensure that our furry friends receive the best possible care when they need it most. Pet insurance gives us the means to make informed decisions based on their needs rather than financial constraints. So, whether you're thinking of adding a furry member to your family or you already have one, take a moment to explore the different pet insurance options available. As with health insurance for people, the best time to get pet insurance is well before you need it while your dog is in good health and has not developed injuries or issues which may be considered preexisting conditions. By taking this proactive step, you can enjoy precious moments with your beloved companion while having the peace of mind that you're prepared for any situation that may arise. Your furry friend's health and happiness deserve the best, and pet insurance can help you provide just that. Not sure where to start? We've done our research and found The Swiftest to be a great resource for comparing and selecting the best pet insurance plan for you and your furry friend. Check them out and find the perfect coverage that fits your needs. Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, we may receive a commission. Rest assured, the inclusion of affiliate links does not influence our editorial content and recommendations. We only recommend products that we have thoroughly researched and believe can provide value to our readers. The commissions earned help support the maintenance of this website and allow us to continue providing helpful information for our audience. Thank you for your support.
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Hot Weather Car Safety for Dogs: Just Leave Them Home
Hot Weather Car Safety for Dogs: Just Leave Them Home By Dorothy Wills-Raftery It seems like a logical thing: it’s a warm (not even hot) day out and you want to take your dog along for a ride in the car while you do a few errands or grab a quick bite to eat. You park in a shady spot, crack your windows, and/or leave the car locked with the air conditioning on, because you think you will be keeping your dog comfortable, and you plan on being inside for “just a minute.” However, there are unforeseen or unexpected delays that can happen—and have happened—and during it all, your dog is literally roasting in the vehicle. Let’s run through some scenarios: 1. While you are in the store or restaurant (even a fast food one), it is more crowded than you thought; the check-out line is long, or the cash register isn’t working. Any number of unforeseen things can occur. Now, your “quick minute” becomes 15, 20, or even 30 minutes. 2. You think your dog is fine because you parked in the shade and left the air conditioner running, but your car’s air conditioner malfunctions, or stops working. Now your car, within a few minutes, can become a hot box. 3. You get into a fender-bender in the parking lot or on the way home. Your car can’t run, meaning the a/c cannot work. You have to exchange driver info and wait for the police to arrive, which depending on their emergencies may take time. Once they do arrive, you need to wait for the report and/or ticket to be written up. Meanwhile, your car is sitting there, in the heat. Even in the shade, it does not protect your dog. Not only is your dog stressed from the accident, but now in harm’s way from the quickly rising temperature in the car. Leaving your dog in the car on a warm or hot day can be downright dangerous and even fatal. Depending on the day and temperature, a dog can experience overheating, heatstroke, seizures, suffocation, brain damage, and even death in just a short amount of time. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “The temperature inside your vehicle can rise almost 20º F in just 10 minutes, and almost 30º F in 20 minutes. The longer you wait, the higher it goes. At one hour, your vehicle's inside temperature can be more than 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature. Even on a 70-degree day, that's 110 degrees inside your vehicle!” States the AVMA, “Your vehicle can quickly reach a temperature that puts your pet at risk of serious illness and even death, even on a day that doesn't seem hot to you. And cracking the windows makes no difference.” Leaving a dog in a hot car, states PETA: “It’s like being baked alive. Heatstroke can happen in just minutes, even with the car’s windows partially rolled down. And opening a window slightly won’t help—parking in the shade or leaving water in the vehicle won’t prevent your dog from overheating, either.” Is it Illegal to Leave a Dog Unattended in a Parked Car? According to a 2023 Animal Legal & Historical Center at Michigan State University citation, “The answer to this question, of course, depends on in the state in which you live. Actually, 31 states have laws that either prohibit leaving an animal in confined vehicle under dangerous conditions or provide civil immunity (protection from being sued) for a person who rescues a distressed animal from a vehicle.” What Can I Do to Help Rescue a Dog From a Hot Vehicle? According to The Humane Society of the United States: Take down the car's make, model, and license plate number. If there are businesses nearby, notify their managers or security guards and ask them to make an announcement to find the car's owner. Many people are unaware of the danger of leaving pets in hot cars and will quickly return to their vehicle once they are alerted to the situation. If the owner can't be found, call the non-emergency number of the local police or animal control, and wait by the car for them to arrive. In several states, Good Samaritans can legally remove animals from cars under certain circumstances, so be sure to know the laws in your area and follow any steps required. “States with such laws typically allow rescue of the animal from the vehicle,” also states the Animal Legal & Historical Center at Michigan State University. “This may involve forcibly entering the motor vehicle to remove the trapped animal. Some states limit their ‘rescue’ laws to law enforcement, firefighters, animal control, first responders, or authorized humane officers. Recently, about 14 states have enacted laws that allow any person to rescue a distressed animal.” For more important tips on what to do when rescuing a dog from a hot car, and first aid, please visit the Human Society’s printable flyer. It’s important for not only adults, but also children to understand the dangers of a pet being left in a hot car. The national non-profit animal welfare organization RedRover® kids’ magazine, Kind News, has a FREE downloadable elementary-level Teaching Guide and PowerPoint presentation on, “The Dangers of Dogs in Hot Cars.” This guide covers the topic of how dangerous it is for dogs to be in a parked car on a warm day even with windows cracked while “applying concepts in physics, biology, and mathematics to a real-life problem that occurs in virtually every community.” Bottom line: During the warm and hot months, please leave your dog home, where it is safe and cool. Both of you will be happy you did. 4Knines, a pet-focused business is celebrating 10 years of making durable dog products and giving back to the animal community. (Visit HERE to see a list of their charitable donations.) If you would like to nominate your favorite animal advocacy group or rescue for their Giving Back Program, simply fill out the form HERE and someone from the 4Knines team will reach out to you. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Senior Dogs Are Golden Treasures
Senior Dogs Are Golden Treasures By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “Every white hair is one day of experience in being the very best friend you’ve ever had.” - Jaymi Heimbuch Whether you have shared your life with your furry best friend since it was a pup, or you welcomed one into your home at an older age, a senior dog is truly a golden gift. When our dogs age, not only may their muzzles sprout gray hairs, but their activity levels and diets may change, as well as their physical and mental health. Thankfully, along with your veterinarian’s guidance, there is so much we can do to help senior dogs live the best, healthiest, and longest life possible. Games for Senior Dogs Research shows games are a great way to give your dog mental stimulation, which helps promote or maintain cognitive function. Some fun things to do include something as simple as The Shell Game (a/k/a Cup Game), an excellent “nosework” activity where you hide a favorite treat under one of three cups, move the cups around, and let your dog sniff out the treat. Puzzles are also a great and fun brain game. You simply hide treats in the various cubbies and watch as your dog happily paws and sniffs his way through the puzzle to reveal the treats. Aids for Older Dogs Sometimes as our dogs age, they need some extra assistance. Whether it is a lift harness to help take weight off of arthritic legs or adding throw rugs or toenail grippers to help prevent them from sliding on floors, to the use of a wheelchair or a doggy stroller, there are many helpful aids today to ensure your senior dog can still get around and enjoy daily activities. Why Adopt a Senior Dog? Oh, my, for so many reasons! For starters, why not give a dog a loving home where they can live out their remaining days feeling loved, happy, and safe? Sadly, though, senior dogs are not the first dogs folks come into adopt. According to The Grey Muzzle Organization, “When senior dogs enter shelters, their future is uncertain. The adoption rate for senior dogs (7 years or older) is lower than that of all other ages combined: Just over 50% find new homes.” Benefits of Adopting an Older Dog Dogs are so devoted and give us their all—trust, love, companionship—they deserve nothing less in return. Some may find themselves homeless for many reasons, including the passing of their human or their human can no longer take care of them due their own illness or having to enter a nursing care facility. These dogs have spent their whole lives with their human best friend and suddenly find themselves lost and afraid, sometimes winding up in shelters or being euthanized simply because they have nowhere to go. To be able to step in and let that dog live out his/her golden years wrapped in love is such a gift, not only for the dog, but for the gift of joy it will fill your heart. Things to Keep in Mind When Adopting an Older Dog As with adding any dog to your family, when you decide to welcome a senior dog into your family and home, there are some important factors to consider and know BEFOREHAND. Do you have the time to care for an older dog? Are you prepared to take care of the dog if s/he has or develops a health issue, such as cognitive dysfunction, arthritis, cancer, seizures, blindness, renal issues, anxiety, etc. Can you financially afford the care of a senior dog? This includes vet visit costs, medications, supplements, specific foods, items such as dog diapers, lift harness, crate/bed, and car seat liners, and special treatments such as cold laser therapy, acupuncture, water therapy, etc. Will a senior dog fit in with your lifestyle? Keep in mind if you have an older dog, but have a busy, chaotic lifestyle that includes loudness, busyness, very young children, etc., that can cause an older displaced dog to have anxieties, can you adapt it to be suited for a senior dog? And the flip is, if this is your lifestyle, would an older dog actually fit in and keep up with your pace? Or, if you yourself are a senior, are you able to care for a senior dog? Go for walks, bend over to feed, groom, clean up after? It’s also very important to not have unrealistic expectations when you first bring home your senior dog. Patience, love, reassurance, and creating a routine are keys to success. “It’s possible your new old dog will come bounding in, jump on the couch, and settle in like he’s lived there all his life…but don’t be disappointed if that doesn’t happen,” notes Hindy Pearson, a dog trainer providing senior dog care support and author of Grey Paws and All: Helping You Care for Your Senior Dog website. “Your dog has just been uprooted from where he was living and brought into what he may see as a strange and scary environment. Give him time to adapt, and if you need help, contact a certified dog trainer that specializes in working with older dogs.” Did you know that calculating your dog’s age is not just times seven? Check out the new calculator published in the Smithsonian Magazine HERE. A great item for senior dog care includes having a protective car seat and/or bed cover to help protect from possible “accidents.” Check out the line of waterproof and washable covers from 4Knines HERE. 4Knines is also committed to giving back to the animal community and they donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups. Resources for Senior Dog Caregivers: 🐾 The Grey Muzzle Organization – A national organization dedicated specifically to advancing lifesaving efforts on behalf of senior dogs. They provide funding and resources to animal shelters and rescues groups across then nation. 🐾 Grey Matters Blog – A blog with expert articles on senior dog care, wellness, alternative treatments, end-of-life care, events, and webinars. 🐾FiveSibes™ The Sibe Vibe – “Caring for a Senior Dog” – a two-part award-winning show about caring for dogs in their senior years. Listen to Part I and Part II. 🐾 Grey Paws and All – a website dedicated to senior dog car with Hindy Pearson. It features helpful articles on training, health, and pet loss. She also conducts Zoom sessions to help senior dog caregivers across the globe. 🐾 Grey Paws and All Podcasts – A podcast where experts talk about health and wellness of senior dog care. 🐾 Senior Dog Care Club Group on Facebook – This group shares tips, advice, and offers support for those sharing their life a senior dog. Note: You will need to request to join this group. 🐾 Caring for a Senior Dog – an online resource for parents of older dogs. 🐾 Navigating Your Dear Old Dog’s Golden Years: Dr. Buzby’s Ultimate Guide –Dr. Julie Buzby, a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience caring for older dogs, shares her advice on helping senior dogs live the happiest, healthiest life possible. 🐾 Animal Town Sanctuary – A non-profit rescue organization specializing in senior and special needs dogs. The sanctuary is a permanent home with round-the clock care for the rescue dogs with a staff that is experienced in holistic cancer treatments, reverse osmosis water, specialized diets, natural foods, canine supplements, aroma and music therapy, and end-of-life care. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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The Importance of Pet First Aid & CPR
The Importance of Pet First Aid & CPR By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” ~Benjamin Franklin Your dog (or cat) has just been injured. Do you know what to do until you can get your beloved pet the vet or animal hospital? What happens if it is after hours, and the nearest emergency hospital is miles away? When an accident or injury happens, time is of the essence. With April being Pet First Aid Month, this is a good time to enroll in a Pet First Aid and CPR Course and update your pet’s First Aid Kit. Why Get Trained in Pet CPR and First Aid? So often we have pet emergencies after-hours or on the weekend. And what if the animal ER hospital is not nearby? “In an emergency, every second counts! The idea for being trained in First Aid and CPR is to empower both pet parents and anyone in charge of caring for pets to be able to know what to do in case of an emergency, and not feel helpless,” states Tom Rinelli, owner and instructor at Paws N Claws 911 First Aid and Care Training. Based in New York, his program has trained students across the country as well as in Canada, Germany, and New Zealand. Rinelli, a seasoned 25+ year veteran of pre-hospital emergency medical services and a dog owner, has applied his specialized background to help Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts earn a Pet Care Merit Badge, as well as teaching lifesaving skills and techniques of Pet CPR and First Aid to pet parents, caregivers, pet care professionals, rescue volunteers, and first responders, including members of the United States Coast Guard. Who Should be Trained in Pet CPR and First Aid? “Pretty much anyone who either has a pet or is charged with the care them of, be it a groomer, pet sitter, a walker… really anyone who comes across a pet in their daily life should know how to do this,” states Rinelli. To listen to Tom Rinelli talk about “Pet Safety, CPR and First Aid,” tune in to this previously recorded episode of FiveSibes The Sibe Vibe on Dog Works Radio. According to the American Red Cross Training Services, there are 6 keys things to remember when it comes to First Aid for your dog or cat: 1. Is Your Dog Breathing and Is There a Heartbeat? “If you do not see your pet’s chest moving and cannot find a heartbeat, begin CPR with chest compressions,” states the American Red Cross. 2. Give Your Dog Chest Compressions How? Instructs the American Red Cross, “Place your hands on your pet as follows: For cats, small dogs, and deep chested dogs, place the heel of one of your hands directly over the pet’s heart and place your other hand directly over the first hand. For deep chested dogs, place the heel of one hand over the widest part of the chest and place your other hand directly over the first hand. For barrel chested dogs, place the dog on its back, place one hand over the widest part of the sternum, and place your other hand directly over the first hand. Then, lock your elbows and make sure your shoulders are directly above your hands.” When in position, “push hard and push fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, compressing 1/3 to 1/2 the width of your pet’s chest. Make sure the chest comes back fully (recoils) before compressing again.” The American Red Cross Training Services recommends performing “30 chest compressions.” 3. Next Steps Give Rescue Breaths Says the American Red Cross, “Gently close the pet’s mouth and extend the pet’s neck to open the airway. Cover your pet’s nose with your mouth and exhale until you see the pet’s chest rise. Give a second rescue breath.” 4. Continue with CPR “Continue giving CPR with a cycle of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until your dog or cat begins breathing again on its own,” instructs the American Red Cross. 5. Recheck for Breathing and a Heartbeat Their recommendation is to, “Briefly check for breathing and a heartbeat every two minutes.” 6. Go Get Help The American Red Cross states to “Continue CPR until you reach a veterinary hospital.” Did You Know There is a FREE American Red Cross Pet First Aid App? Visit the App Store of Google Play to Download. You can also Text "GETPET" to 90999. Do You Have a First Aid Kit for Your Dog? It’s good to have two First Aid Kits, one for home and one for the car. Items to pack in the kit include: stethoscope, antiseptic, antibiotic cream, antihistamine (unopened), gauze, bandages, scissors, tick remover tool, ear and eye ointments, instant ice packs, First Aid instructions, pet thermometer, alcohol pads, latex gloves, portable water & food bowl, pet's medical & vaccine record, photo ID. If your dog has Epilepsy,* also be sure to include rescue anti-seizure medications, natural stress relief product, appropriately sized instant ice packs, honey or corn syrup for post-seizure, fresh unopened container of protein dog food/treat, and your dog’s journal with important info on the dates, times, length of seizures, etc. Check with your veterinarian for a complete list of items to be included in your particular pet’s First Aid Kit. *For more information on caring for a dog with Canine Epilepsy, visit the FiveSibes FREE #LiveGibStrong Online K-9 Epilepsy Resource Library. Transporting an Ill or Injured Dog It is always good to have a plan in place on how you would transport your dog to a veterinarian or ER animal hospital. Maybe your dog was having a seizure or has been injured. If your dog is little, it can easily be carried. For larger dogs, an extending car ramp or bed sheet can be used as a makeshift stretcher for your dog. Also helpful when transporting an injured or sick pet, is to have a sturdy and waterproof vehicle seat cover. Be sure to check out the 4Knines seat covers for one that will fit your car or truck. Happy Anniversary, 4Knines! In honor of this being 4Knines 10th Anniversary, they are offering the code TEN-YEARS for 15% off sitewide. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Is Your Yard Dog-Ready for the Spring?
Is Your Yard Dog-Ready for the Spring? By Dorothy Wills-Raftery Spring has sprung in the northern hemisphere, and we’ve all been anxiously waiting for the longer warmer days so we can get back to some outdoor living. But, before your dogs head out into your yard that has been under a long winter of snow and ice, be sure to do a yard check first. Here are 10 tips to ensure your yard is ready for your dog’s warm weather play. 1. Mending Fences The snow is gone, and pups are anxious to get out and have zoomies in the new grass. Before letting your dogs out for a springtime romp, do a perimeter check to be sure there are no breaks or holes in the fencing, and that any gates to the yard are secure. Now is the time to mend all fences and secure gates. Until this is done, be sure your dog is in a good harness and on a leash as you police the yard. Did You Know? 4Knines has a harness with a handle that serves a dual purpose. The no-pull, no-choke design with reflective straps can secure them in the car and work as an everyday harness. 4Knines also has a six-foot heavy-duty slip lead dog leash that comes in three colors. And, as always, 4Knines donates to multiple animal advocacy groups, as well as groups that help veterans with service dogs. 2. Down on All Paws A good tip is to hunker down to your dog’s level and check out all the places s/he can go to avoid injury, escape, or illness. You can discover escape holes, broken lattice under decks, new beehives, gas cans, antifreeze containers, chlorine, bug repellants, leftover winter debris in yard, etc. This is also the time of year folks set up their barbeque grills and put out citronella candles and yard torches. To keep your dog from getting burned, be sure they cannot access any of these whether walking around, or when they jump up. 3. Please, No Flower Power While flowers, trees, and plants make for a beautiful yard, there are plenty that can be toxic to your dog (and many to cats and horses, too), and a few may surprise you. Some common yard plants that are toxic include: aloe, apple, azalea, black walnut, burning bush, chrysanthemum, daffodil, daisy, foxglove, hyacinth, iris, lavender, geraniums, orange, parsley, tulips, yews, and many more. Check the ASPCA’s Plants Toxic to Dogs List (and they also have a list of non-toxic plants for reference). 4. Just Say No to Cocoa Mulch I wrote about this little culprit over a decade ago, and while it smells like chocolate, there is nothing sweet about it if ingested by dogs. According to the National Control Poison Center, “Cocoa bean mulch contains theobromine and caffeine, just like chocolate. These chemicals are poisonous to dogs. Dogs who swallow cocoa bean mulch could have vomiting, diarrhea, a very fast heart rate, tremors, and seizures. Death is uncommon, but has happened. It's impossible to tell how much cocoa bean mulch might be poisonous.” Bottom line: just don’t use it. 5. Don’t Bug My Dog Spring is also the time for bugs and pest control. We know that not only can toxins be ingested by dogs, but they also absorb it in through their paws, and because they are always sniffing, they can inhale odors. Before calling in a company, or treating the yard yourself, always ask and read what ingredients are used. According to the National Pesticide Information Center, “Pet owners can minimize the chance of their pet having a problem by following label directions, selecting lower toxicity pesticides, and minimizing the amount of exposure their pet has to the pesticide during and after the application.” Many companies today use natural pet- and eco-friendly ingredients, so ask the questions and do a search online for a company that best serves your needs. 6. Keep Pools Swimmingly Safe Be sure if you have a pool, that there are steps and/or a way out should your dog fall or climb in. If your dog goes swimming in your family pool, it’s a great idea to teach them how to exit. Here is a good training video from Bark Busters below: Also, be sure any containers of pool chemicals are kept safely locked away, out of your dog’s reach. Looking for a safe alternative? Fill up some kiddie pools with clean cool water for them to splash in—they can easily get in and out by themselves, and no chemicals! 7. Working Up A Thirst Periodically throughout the day, check that your dog’s water dish/bowl is clean and filled with fresh, cool water. What kind of dog dish should you use? Stainless steel is the most recommended. Check out the Stainless Steel Dog Bowl with Non-Slip / No-Spill Design by 4Knines. 8. Keep it Au Natural ‘Tis the season for fleas and ticks. To help reduce your dog’s chances of being bugged by these nasty and disease-bearing critters, there are flea and tick repellants. Some of the chemical types can cause seizures in some dogs, but there are now some really good natural ones. Check with your vet for what would be best for your dog. 9. Help Me Get Home In the event your dog somehow manages to escape your yard, be sure their microchip and ID tags re up-to-date. This includes having all your current info listed with both your microchip company and your vet’s office. 10. ICE is Nice! ICE – or “In Case of Emergency” is the acronym to put before your emergency contact listed in your cell phone. If you should find yourself in an emergency situation, or you can’t make a call yourself, your contacts can be scrolled through to easily locate your emergency person. How to list it? Simple: ICE and the name, such as ICE Mom or ICE Vet. Happy Anniversary, 4Knines! To celebrate, they are holding a Giveaway! Your possible prizes consist of choosing any spilt cover, a plush blanket, a bowl, or a leash! You can enter here: https://4knines.com/pages/10-year-anniversary-giveaway What a great way to celebrate a decade of bringing wonderful dog products to their customers! Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Going Back to Work? 8 Ways to Help Prepare Your Dogs
Going Back to Work? 8 Ways to Help Prepare Your Dogs By Dorothy Wills-Raftery Are you looking at returning to the workforce? Maybe you were out on maternity/paternity leave, or you were working from home for the past few years, or maybe you are just entering the work world outside of your home for the first time. Whatever your reason, if you have dogs, you are probably having some trepidations about leaving them and concerned about how they will get along in your absence. Will they miss you? Will they be sad? Will they be destructive? Can you get someone to walk them? Should you crate or gate them? While part of you may be looking forward to “getting back out there,” there is also a huge concern of how it may affect your dogs who once had all of your attention on a daily basis. As with most things, dogs are smart and catch on quick. And contrary to the old adage, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” we actually can. But it is all in how it is done. To help dogs adjust, it takes—in a word—preparation. Here’s a few tips to help prepare you and your dog adjust to a new schedule that includes you not being home full-time: 1. All Aboard—Getting Everyone on the New Schedule If you know what your new hours will be, do some test runs. If you need to change up their potty breaks, breakfast and dinner times, start doing so. If you work near your residence, maybe you can zip home during your lunch break, and what a terrific way to check on your dog and still take him/her out. If you work too far to visit at noon, see if you can have a family member/friend/neighbor/dog walker come by for the mid-afternoon break and potty run. By initiating the new schedule earlier than needed, it will give you and your dog time to adjust so when you start work, they will be used to the new format. 2. What About Medications? Having a Siberian Husky diagnosed with epilepsy, medication schedules were very important for me to set up and adhere to. If your dog requires specifically timed medications, and they are different than what your new work schedule will be, begin over a period of time adjusting their administration times so it works for their dosage instructions and your new schedule. Sudden medication changes can possibly adversely affect a dog, so be sure to back up/extend the time gradually over a few days to a week so it is not a sudden change for your dog. 3. To Crate or Not to Crate That is always a big question. Naturally, if your dogs are crate trained, then everything will be status quo. If this is something new…try it out. Get them a nice crate pad or dog blanket, too. If your dog has anxiety when crated, then close off an area for them (baby gates are great for this) and make it their safe area that includes a nice bed, a few of their favorite toys, and always fresh water. If your dog is fine with the run of the house, then that’s cool, too. You can treat them to a nice new comfy blanket for their favorite spot, whether it be on the sofa, bed, or floor! 4. Peek-a-Boo, I See You! A great peace of mind for a dog parent who is looking at now working outside of the home is to install a video camera, whether separate or through your home’s alarm system. There are also some that are two-way, meaning you can not only see your dog in your home, but also talk to them through the video/alarm system app. (There’s one where you can even dispense treats!) Some dogs, however, may get overexcited at hearing their person’s voice, and that could be confusing or upsetting. We all know our own dogs, so use your best judgement. If your dog does get overexcited, it may be best to just silently peep in on them. 5. Visit the Vet A good idea is to have your veterinarian check out your dog before such a big change is initiated. It’s good to be sure there are no underlying health issues that could be exacerbated by them being left home. Also, if your dog has anxiety issues, they may suggest natural calming supplements, pheromone spray or diffuser, and/or prescription medications to help keep your dog stress-free and calm. 6. Busy Toys Make Happy Dogs Whether you crate or have your dog free roam, having busy toys available can chase away boredom and stimulate their mind. Puzzle toys with hidden treats and chew toys (a great tip is to fill a rubber one that you can pack with treats or fill it with natural no-salt added creamy peanut butter and freeze it before giving it to them. This will happily keep them occupied for a while). *Caution: Never leave your dog alone with toys or chew bones that could pose a choking hazard. 7. Safety Stickers If you do not have these already, now is a great time to get some Pet Safety Stickers to put on the windows and doors to your residence where your pets stay. These stickers can alert emergency personnel arriving at your home that there are dogs and/or cats inside your home, along with a place for a contact phone number. The ASPCA offers a FREE Pet Safety Pack that includes the decals, as well as an Animal Poison Control Center magnet. To obtain the free kit, simply visit the site and complete their request form. 8. Who’s a Good Doggy?! When you do return home, no matter how tired you may feel, remember your dog has been waiting all day for you. And as much as you missed them, they missed you even more! Please take a few minutes to give your dog praise and hugs—positive reinforcement for being such a good dog! Grab their leashes, and take them out on a nice walk, or let them out in the yard and engage them in some fun play. Something as simple as tossing a ball and playing Fetch can make them look forward to your return even more each day! Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Road Trippin’ With Your Dog
Road Trippin’ With Your Dog By Dorothy Wills-Raftery Now that the holidays have passed, are you looking for something to do with your furry best friend until the longer lighter days of spring and summer come? How about some road trippin’ adventures? Any time of the year is a good time for a drive, and I think dogs love car rides even more than us humans! But before you load up your dogs, here’s some tips to make that trip a successful one: 1. Are Your Dogs Travel Ready? First up, be sure your dogs are healthy and fit to travel. Also be sure your dogs’ vaccines, microchips, and tags are all up to date. A call to your vet and/or having a vet checkup is advised before heading out and hitting the road. 2. Where to? Is it Dog-Friendly? Pre-trip planning includes reviewing the location you want to visit. While there, where is it you’d like to go? Whether you are planning on hitting the hiking trails, visiting eateries, going shopping, or just hiding out in a zen B&B or hotel/motel room, always do your research and be sure the places welcome dogs. A few great online sites to check out for dog-friendly travel destinations are: BringFido ➜ Big Dog Travel Vlog ➜ DogsLuvUsAndWeLuvThem ➜ Doggone Destinations ➜ Go Pet-Friendly ➜ Year of the Monkey Pet Travel Guide ➜ 3. Safety Check: Is Your Vehicle Dog-Ready to Go? After giving your vehicle a pre-trip inspection, also be sure it is dog ready. Do you have a travel bed? A safety crate and/or seat belt harness? How about a car seat cover? If your dog is new to car travel, do a practice run to be sure there are no issues, such as anxiety or car sickness, and if so, address it with your vet beforehand. Another great idea is to create Pet ID Cards that include their photo, address, your cell phone number, vet contact info, and any distinguishing marks, special needs, and medications and keep the ID Cards in the glovebox along with your car papers. 4. Put a Pin in That Map! When you are ready to go, check your map for routes along the way to your destination to see where the nearest top-rated veterinarian and ER facilities, as well as dog-friendly hotels/motels, restaurants, and rest stops so they can stretch their legs and have potty breaks. 5. Go Ahead and Pack That Suitcase! Be sure to pack a bag for your dog! Key items to include are a Pet First Aid kit (and any medications and supplements they need), your dog’s medical/vaccine records, dog food, treats, portable dishes, water*, favorite toys and puzzles, bed, poop bags, leash, and harness. If you use a traditional camera, don’t forget to bring it. And don’t forget your smart phone charger so it is always at the ready in case of an emergency and for some great pictures if that’s what you use for photos and videos! *Depending on where you are going, sometimes a change in water can cause GI upset. Best to bring water from home or pack bottled water. Keep in mind to keep your car on the cool side for your dog, and please, never leave your dog in a warm car, even for “just a few minutes.” Cars heat up fast and can cause a serious health issue and can be fatal for your beloved dog. For that trip, check out a great choice of seat belts, safety harnesses, crate mats & travel beds, seat covers, and dog beds, check out some great 4Knines items! Now that you and your dog are all ready for that road trip, have fun! There’s nothing more joyful than spending some quality adventure time with your dog. And, remember, your special times spent today will be your precious memories tomorrow. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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The One Pet Item You Need to Have in the New Year! Hint: It’s Not Just For Your Dog!
The One Pet Item You Need to Have in the New Year! Hint: It’s Not Just For Your Dog! Welcome 2020! With the arrival of January, many of us are taking our dogs out for excursions in the snow, or hitting the hiking trails to walk off some of that holiday cheer! In many areas snow abounds, which means wet and muddy boots, wet snow shovels, and even canisters of pet-friendly ice melt, which sometimes makes keeping the car clean and dry a difficult task! But not if you have a 4knines Cargo Liner! Having a cargo liner can not only help keep your vehicle clean, but it also gives your pets a safer, more solid footing when in the back of your car (and be sure to buckle them up for safety)! The great thing about a 4Knines cargo liner is that it is multi-functional, and not just for pet families! The liner can help keep your car clean in many different ways – all year long! Maybe you are removing your Christmas tree and need to keep all the drying needles from spreading around your SUV. And, even though it’s just January, spring is not too far off in the distance and thoughts of a blossoming garden may be dancing in your head! With a 4Knines Cargo Liner, your vehicle can be protected from dirty gardening tools, bags of mulch and fertilizer, and even new shrubs and plants. Did You Know? 4Knines is committed to giving back to the animal community. They donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups, so the cargo liner you purchase not only helps to protect your vehicle, it also helps animals in need! With having five Siberian Huskies over the years, keeping the back of our SUV could be a real challenge! From fur to drool to muddy pawprints, finding the right cargo liner was so important! We needed to have one that was not complicated and that we could leave in the vehicle. We also wanted one that did not slide around and could be easily cleaned. 4Knines has not just one, but two cargo liners to suit your vehicle needs! The 4Knines Multi-Function Split SUV Cargo Liner This multi-functional liner design is exclusive to 4Knines! The split SUV Cargo Liner makes it so convenient as it covers the cargo area and back of seats, whether your seats are up or down! “This is the only seat cover that allows you access to the middle seat belt, fold-down seats, or armrest without removing the cover. No other company has it!” proudly states 4Knines. So no need to remove the liner when adjusting the seats for various types of cargo or pets! The bottom is also slip-proof, which makes it perfect for transporting your canine companions, whether they are seat-buckled in or safely tucked in travel crates. Check out this video on the 4Knines Split Cargo Liner: 4Knines Premium Dog Cargo Liner The Premium Dog Cargo Liner is for SUVs or vans, and share many of the same great features as the 4Knines Multi-Function Split Dog Cargo Liner. Check out this video on the 4Knines Premium Dog Cargo Liner: Did You Know? 4Knines stand behind their products 100%. If your 4Knines® product does not work for your vehicle for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. No hassle. No explanation needed. Both 4Knines Cargo Liners share excellent features: They come in THREE SIZES: SMALL 42" x 78", LARGE 52" x 82", and XLARGE: 55" x 106" (including 20" bumper flap). Be sure to measure your vehicle for a proper fit. They come in THREE COLORS to match the interior of your vehicle: Black, Gray, and Tan. They are HEAVY-DUTY – The liners are colorfast and free of AZO dyes and heavy chemicals like lead, arsenic, or mercury. They are WATERPROOF & NON-SLIP - Special solid waterproof layer makes the seat bottom completely waterproofed (seams, stitching, and zippers are not watertight). THEY ARE BOTH EASY TO INSTALL - Installs in seconds with quick-release clips. Check out Jim's installation video! EASY TO CLEAN - Hose it down, wipe down with a moist towel, or toss it in the washer to keep it looking fresh and clean. Get Your Choice of 4Knines Cargo Liner Today! To read more about the 4Knines CargoLiners, including fit guide, prices, and ordering info, visit HERE today! So with the dawn of a shiny new year comes excitement for all of the upcoming seasons filled with fun projects and activities, and many adventures with your dog. With a 4Knines Cargo Liner installed, you can keep your vehicle clean while doing them all! Happy New Year! Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom). :|zpendofcontent|:
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3 Great Games to Play With Your Dog
3 Great Games to Play With Your Dog Talk to most dog owners and they’ll tell you the importance of taking Fido out for his daily walk. Yet when it comes to playtime, some owners might not rank this activity so highly. However, the first things we learn as humans are learnt through playing. That red bouncy ball that escaped you so many times at the beach was the key to developing the coordination that lets you eat food, tie your shoelaces, and even fly a jet aircraft. It’s the same for our dogs. Playing provides the foundations that let dogs perform daily activities, it allows them to use their natural behaviours, boosts fitness and improves their cognitive skills. As we humans grow up, we play less and less, but when we remember the adage about ‘all work and no play’ and go outside with a ball, we feel revived and enthusiastic. Your dog is only too happy to help you feel like this all the time! So Why Do Dogs Play? Biologist John Bradshaw says: “Play must promote survival; otherwise, evolution would select against it. A young animal that’s playing out in the open is much more obvious to a predator than one sleeping in its den. However, the benefits of play do not usually become apparent until months later, when they emerge in the form of better social integration or more sophisticated hunting techniques…the simplest explanation is that play is self-rewarding: in other words, it is fun!” When I’m working with owners that are experiencing problems with their dog, as part of their assessment, I always look at what enrichment the dog gets during the day. That’s because, in some cases, a dog that’s reactive to another may get a rush of dopamine pumping through his body. This can be highly addictive, especially if Fido isn’t experiencing any ‘highs’ for the rest of his day. So the behaviour, which may have been originally borne out of fear or frustration, can end up being rewarding for that dog and therefore repeated due to a lack of stimulation. Playing with your dog not only provides happy hormones for your pooch but it also helps focus his natural behaviours in a positive way. Playing strengthens the dog-owner bond, teaches Fido you’re fun to be with, and it helps create and maintain a healthy body and mind. What could be better than that? There are some great ways you can bust your dog’s neurons through play, so here are three game ideas to play with your pooch: 1. Choose the Right Cup Let the dog see you hide a treat under an upturned plastic cup or clean yoghurt pot. When he moves towards it, praise your dog and say “FIND IT.” When your dog pushes the cup over, praise your dog to reinforce this action – his reward is being able to munch up the treat he’s just found! When your dog starts to do this readily, put him outside the room and hide the treat. This makes it a blind search for your dog. Bring your dog back in, place your palm near to his nose so he can smell the scent from the treat, then say “FIND IT” gesturing towards the room. 2. Tidy Up Toys Start off by placing your dog’s toy basket in the middle of the room, kneel down next to it and scatter the toys. Give your dog his retrieve cue (for example “FETCH”), praise him when he picks up the toy and then hold the basket under your dog’s jaw, say “BE TIDY.” Praise and reward your dog when he drops the toy into the basket. Then repeat… 3. Spin Left and Twist Right With a treat in your hand show it to your dog, place it close to his nose then move it in a wide circle clockwise and say “SPIN.” As the dog follows the treat, praise and reward him with the treat. To teach your dog the twist, move your hand containing the treat in a wide circle anti-clockwise and say “TWIST.” Praise and reward your dog when he gets it right. Once your dog is getting the idea, introduce a hand signal or movement to indicate left spins and right twists. Top Tip: Avoid games that encourage mouthing, biting or jumping at you. Very often rough and tumble games can lead to a dog getting over-excited or, for some, a little fearful. Instead redirect your dog’s attention onto rubberized chew toys if he starts getting over-aroused, or introduce food puzzle games as this gets your dog’s brain working, helping to calm him down. AUTHOR BIO Hanne Grice Hanne Grice is a dog trainer & behaviour specialist; published author and founder of the pet care and behaviour company Walk the Dog™ (WTD). Over the last nine years, Hanne has helped over a thousand human and furry clients, working with famous faces from the world of sport, film and entertainment. She has won a number of awards both nationally and locally for her work in the UK, and represented female entrepreneurs presenting in front of government bodies and Ministers. Hanne is the author of ‘Playing With Your Dog‘ and contributes to a number of publications sharing advice on canine behaviour. Hanne has given expert advice on the BBC Breakfast sofa, BBC Radio 5 Live, Talk Sport, Radio Dacorum and has regularly appeared on BBC Three Counties. She also runs a popular Puppy & Dog School in Hertfordshire, England, and holds educational workshops for both pet owners and pet professionals. Hanne is a member of The Association of Pet Dog Trainers, The Pet Professional Guild, The Animal Behaviour Society, The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour, The Society for the Promoting of Applied Research in Canine Science, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance and the British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers.
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Meeting Up at the Dog Park
Meeting Up at the Dog Park Whether you’ve moved to a new area, or are traveling with your dog on vacation and visiting a new town, you probably are asking yourself, where is the local dog park? Maybe you like to hike or camp with your dog, but are not sure of which are pet safe and dog-friendly trails and sites. Or, maybe you would just like to meet other doggy parents and give yourself and your dog a chance to simply socialize. The big question is—how can you find where to do this? Today, dog parks and pet-friendly parks are popping up in cities and towns all over, giving dogs who may not usually have the opportunity to get out and stretch, to have a chance to have some fun, make new doggy friends, and have a safe space to run free and just be, well, a dog! According to the American Kennel Club, there are many benefits to a dog park, including: 1. Allowing Dogs to Safely Exercise Dog parks are fenced in and offer dogs the opportunity to be off-leash and have the safe freedom to run, play, and have fun in an enclosed environment. 2. Dogs Can Safely Socialize Under the watchful eye of their guardians, dogs can play without the threat of danger, such as running away, being taken, or dodging out into a street with traffic. 3. Dog Parents Can Socialize With People of Common Interests Dog parents can share stories, tips, and be supportive of each other while bonding (and sharing some laughs) over their beloved dogs. 4. Promotes Responsible Dog Ownership A dog park gives dogs a great place to run off-leash without violating leash laws or infringing on the space and/or safety of passersby, running up to and frightening neighborhood children, running after joggers, etc. When visiting a dog park, it is important to be careful and considerate and know proper dog park etiquette, so all dogs and their humans can enjoy the playtime. This would include: Take note of the park or group rules, and respect them. Always be sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that your dog is in good health. Always keep a watch on your dog, and be ready to step in and head off any potential problems. If your dog is aggressive and cannot be controlled, don’t bring him/her to the dog park. Always bring poop bags and clean up after your dog! Bring a water dish/portable water bottle and fresh, cool water. Keep treats and food out of the dog park! The park is for play! Not all dogs like to share and when food is around, it can quickly become a hostile situation. Be friendly! Taking photos of your pet in action is always fun, just be sure to ask the other dogs’ families if it is okay to snap their pet as well. Not sure how to find a dog park, or even a dog-friendly beach, campground, or playground to go to with your dog? Check out the various iOS apps, including the 2019 Webby Honoree, BringFido! BringFido (both app and website) not only lists worldwide dog-friendly parks and beaches by state, but it also gives listings and reviews of many other dog-friendly places to visit, including hotels, restaurants, activities, events, and more! There are also some terrific blogs written by traveling pet bloggers who write about their experiences at dog parks, dog-friendly parks, and dog-friendly places. For tips about traveling with your dog, dog-friendly places to visit, and much more, here are just a few websites and blogs for traveling dog families to check out: BringFido Go Pet-Friendly Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them Year of the Monkey: Travel. Food. Pets. Lifestyle Doggone Destinations Camping With Dogs by Life With Mutts Another way to look for like-minded dog lovers and a dog meet-ups at parks and other destinations in your local area, or an area you are visiting, is by checking out MeetUp.com. Go to their “Pets” category and do a search for “dog meet-ups” or “dog parks” with a desired mile radius of your location to find dog-friendly places near you. Are you a Facebook fan? You can type in key words in the Facebook search bar, such as “dog parks,” “dog meet-ups,” or even breed-specific groups, then click on the “Groups” tab, and voila! There are tons of listings to search through right at your fingertips! As a cautionary reminder, please keep yourself and your pet safe by doing a little research first to be sure the group you located online is legit by checking out the member list to see if you can verify its authenticity from a member you may already know, or talk to a licensed and/or recognized canine group, vet, or a town official. If possible, take a drive to the dog park or meet-up place to visually check it out ahead of time. Once verified, you and your dog can enjoy a happy, healthy, and safe outing together with some new friends—canine and human! And don’t forget to get a 4Knines seat cover to protect your vehicle from those wet, muddy pawprints! Check out my 4Knines affiliate link here for a cover to fit your vehicle and your dog’s needs, and enjoy those happy tails on the trails! Dorothy Wills-Raftery Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author of EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle books (ArcticHouse Publishing), as well as the FiveSibes.com, an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed and Canine Epilepsy information, as well as her international award-winning FiveSibes blog, based on the lives of her five Siberian Huskies. Her work has also appeared in American Pet Magazine, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy is the writer and host of "The Sibe Vibe” Dog Works Radio show. Dorothy is a 9-time Dog Writers of America Association “Excellence” nominee, winning the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in 2017 and 2016 for her writing, photography, and design. Her book EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the 2018 Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and 2017 NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. Dorothy was also named “Best Author” in 2015 & 2016 by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four books named “Best in Print” by American Pet Magazine, An official International Purple Day® for Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy is the creator of the FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K-9 Epilepsy Awareness campaign and partnered with The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for #Paws4Purple Project, both inspired by her own epileptic Husky, Gibson. In addition to her Siberian Huskies, Dorothy shares her home with her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, on Google + , Twitter, and Instagram(@FiveSibesMom). :|zpendofcontent|:
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Features of a Good Dog Daycare
Features of a Good Dog Daycare Dog daycares have become popular with dog owners but, like many pet-related services, the quality of care varies. Here are some tips on how to find a good dog daycare: Ask for recommendations from other dog owners, trainers and veterinarians and visit the daycare or daycares you are considering and spend some time there. Whether the daycare is indoors, outdoors or a combination, the daycare should be spacious. The dogs should have lots of room to run and they should be able to get away from one another if they want or need to. Note the odor of the facility. It should smell fresh and be clean and not like dog waste or harsh cleaners. For playtime, dogs should be divided into groups (divided by size, activity levels and playstyles) either by having the groups in separate areas from one another or by having the groups out in separate playtimes. Check what size the groups are. More than 10 or 15 dogs per group is risky. Consider also the staff to dog ratio. Most dog professionals recommend 1 staff member per 15 dogs with adjustments made for more and less active dogs. There should be continual supervision of the dogs. Ask about the daycares’ policy on toys. Some dogs become possessive over things and many daycares avoid having toys out with the dogs for this reason. Look for a daycare where there are rest areas for the dogs and where dogs are given rest periods. There should be clean fresh water always available. If it is an indoor facility, there should be a designated area where the dogs can do their business so that they are comfortable all day and so that they do not lose their housetraining skills. Some daycares incorporate walks into the day for this purpose. If you have an older dog, check to see if there are additional times for a dog who perhaps needs to void more often. Look at the fences surrounding the outdoor area and make sure they are high and solid. I like fences which also have buried wire to avoid dogs digging their way out. Are there double gates and double doors so that dogs are secure when people are coming in and out of the facility? Meet the staff! The staff members should really care about dogs. They should employ reward-based methods to encourage good behavior from the dogs and understand that punishment is known to create aggression. They should easily recognize stress signals in dogs. Staff members should know the difference between play and aggression and when to interrupt dog interactions. Be sure to ask what training the staff have in dog behavior and care. Your dog’s daycare experience is going to be as good as the staff who make it happen. Ask how the staff break up fights and what tools they use. Walk away from any facility that tells you they allow dogs to just “sort it out”. There should always be at least one staff member with current pet first aid present. Staff should also be able to give medications to your dog if required. Ask how the daycare screens the dogs who attend the daycare (the dogs should be screened for suitability). Is there a detailed application form (there should be!)? Are there vaccination requirements (there should be)? Ask about the daycares’ policy is on emergencies. Decide if your is dog a good candidate for a daycare. Dogs who like to play with other dogs, are active and well-socialized are good candidates for daycare. Dogs who are distressed when left at home alone can be good candidates for daycare, but they also may prefer to hang out at a friend’s house or have a caregiver come to the home in the absence of the owner. Once your dog has been to a daycare, observe your dog to see if it looks like he likes it when you go again. Is he excited when he arrives and eager to meet up with the other dogs or is he showing stress signals and reluctant to approach the centre? If it’s the latter, then that daycare isn’t for him. Some businesses offer video access to their customers which can give peace of mind to an owner who wants to see first hand that their dog is having a great time. Decide how long your dog will attend daycare. Some offer hourly and half-day services. Daycares can be great for dogs but choose wisely! Jane Bowers, B.A., CABC, CPDT-KA Jane Bowers has been training dogs for over two decades. She teaches people to train their dogs in group and private training courses and has a keen interest in assisting dogs with behavioral issues. Her company is Dogs of Distinction Canine Training Inc. Jane has a monthly newspaper column on dog related topics and is a former host of a live call in TV show on animals. She is a strong advocate for force free and humane training methods for all animals. Jane has a degree in psychology and is certified as a dog trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Pet Dog Trainers and as a behaviour consultant through the International Association of Behavior Consultants and through the Association of Animal Behavior Professionals. These organizations require a minimum number of continuing education units be obtained to retain certification. She is also a professional member of "The Pet Professional Guild," an organization committed to force-free training of animals and the "Association of Professional Dog Trainers," a professional organization of individual trainers who are committed to being better trainers through education. Jane is the content creator of the online course "Assessing and Interpreting Dog Behaviour," which is a course for law enforcement personnel who meet unfamiliar dogs in the course of their duties. She is the author of "Perfect Puppy Parenting," a guide to raising a happy, confident, well-behaved dog. Jane spent 17 years working for Customs Border Services and in joint teams with US Homeland Security and the RCMP. She spent a further 8 years working as an Animal Control Officer and Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Jane lives on a small farm with dogs, sheep, donkeys, and chickens. The dogs each came from situations that prevented them from living in their original homes. The dogs range in size and age and with the dog training and behavioral work, whether it's participating in the development of an online training course, working with a client's dog or tracking a lost pet or animal. :|zpendofcontent|:
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