Send Your Dog Back To School

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Back to school is looking a little bit different this year for everyone, even our dogs. But, it’s still the perfect time for your dog to brush up on core subjects like basic household manners and obedience skills, and an opportunity to think about artistic electives for dogs like dancing and acting, and even extracurricular sports. In response to COVID-19, many canine organizations are offering the opportunity for you and your dog to earn titles in a variety of dog sports from Agility to Tricks to Rally online! Videos meeting the organization’s requirements are uploaded and submitted to be evaluated by judges, and titles are awarded just like they would be at a dog show! Ready to get studying? 

Photo: PhotoTalk/Getty Images

Private tutoring 

Does your dog need to brush up on basic manners? Back to school is the perfect time to teach new skills and to develop fun training routines. If you and your dog have worked with trainers in the past, chances are they are offering online classes or private instruction. If you and your dog haven’t worked with a trainer in the past, now is a great time to start. Look for a positive reinforcement-based trainer in your local area. In response to the pandemic most trainers are working virtually with dogs and handlers. Remote training is a great way to polish up basic manners around the house like sit, down, not rushing doors, potty training and more. These skills can be worked on by meeting with a trainer via video sessions. 

Photo: Chalabala/Getty Images

5 extra-curricular activities for your dog

Do More With Your Dog – Trick Dog Titles 

Do More With Your Dog is the oldest certifying trick dog organization and offers trick titles Novice through Champion, which can be earned via video submission. Tricks are an incredibly versatile sport that really any dog of any age and size can compete in. DMWYD Titles are reviewed and approved by Certified Trick Dog Instructors (CTDI). After titles are earned complimentary title certificates and ribbons are mailed to dogs. After earning trick titles, your dog can also earn Stunt Dog titles from DMWYD. Learn more at http://www.domorewithyourdog.com/

USDAA @ HOME- Agility & Rally

Since April 2020, USDAA@Home has created a program that allows Agility and Rally competitors to earn Qualifying runs towards titles via video submission. Through this program, competitors can compete in either USDAA Agility and WCRL (World Cynosport Rally Limited) Rally. Once you register for an upcoming virtual event, the course will be sent to you and you have two weeks to set it up and video you and your dog completing the assigned course. You then score the course yourself and submit it back to USDAA@Home to be professionally evaluated by USDAA for agility and WCRL for Rally. Multiple levels of Rally (Levels 1, 2, 3) are offered via the virtual program and for Agility multiple games including jumpers, gamblers, and standard, relay, and snooker.  Learn more at https://www.usdaa.com/athome/

CANINE FREESTYLE

May I have this dance? Canine Freestyle or Musical Freestyle as it is sometimes called is an interactive creative sport where handlers design a “dancing” routine to perform with a dog. Pick a song that you like and Freestyle brings tricks and obedience skills like heeling together to choreography allowing dogs and handlers “dance” together. The World Canine Freestyle Organization provides opportunities to put together routines, video and compete with your dog in several  categories  from the comfort and safety of home! Learn more at https://www.worldcaninefreestyle.org

AKC – AGILITY AND RALLY and TRICKS

To meet the needs of our current world, the American Kennel Club has expanded its programming in new ways to allow dogs (purebred and mixed breeds) and guardians to compete in sports from the safety of home. Currently, AKC has two pilot programs running through December 31st, 2020 where dogs can earn titles from home in both Agility and Rally.

ACT (Agility Course Test) Title can be earned from home. All instructions including the course maps are on the AKC website. Note: for this you do need full-sized agility equipment and the space needs to meet some specific requirements making this a little harder for some people if you don’t have equipment at home, or a socially distanced agility field/barn rental available to you. Learn more at https://www.akc.org/sports/agility/act-program/act-virtual-program/

Rally Obedience is a fun high-energy, obedience-based sport. As part of its pilot program, AKC is currently offering the opportunity for competitors to compete and earn titles at both the Novice and (most recently expanded to include) the Intermediate level as well. Rally is an ideal sport for having fun with your dog and practicing obedience related skills. There is no size requirement for the Rally courses, allowing flexibility to set up courses in smaller backyards. 

The AKC’s trick dog program allows dogs to earn titles from Novice through the Elite Performer level where dog and handler teams perform a skit incorporating a number of advanced tricks. Trick titles can be earned via video submission, which are reviewed by AKC recognized CGC Evaluators.  

Canine Parkour

Parkour, sometimes referred to as “Urban Agility,” is a sport that encourages you and your dog to engage with the world around you. Unlike traditional agility there is no need for equipment — you can train from anywhere. Like the human equivalent, your dog will be performing skills with “obstacles” you find in the world — everything from tree trunks to park benches. With Canine Parkour, dogs will climb/jump onto objects, put their front or rear paws onto objects, go-between objects, go under, around natural and man-made obstacles you locate while out walking with your dog. Safety is key. Dogs should be fitted with a harness that allows the handler to safely “spot” the dog getting on and off of objects and titles are earned by sending in video that meet specific criteria. There are two main Parkour titling organizations that offer titles that can be earned from home, which are The International Dog Parkour Association and All Dogs Parkour.  

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Miniature Dachshund

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Quick Facts

• Weight: up to 11 pounds
• Height: 5 – 7 inches

The Look of a Miniature Dachshund

The Dachshund “look” is hard to miss: low, long and short with a body that somehow stays solid and balanced in spite of its squat frame. Its convex head is erect and alert with ears that hang low and a pair of friendly oval eyes. The base of the neck slopes down to a protruding chest and a tighter abdomen, and the tail follows the line of the back. Miniature Dachshunds come in three varieties— smooth, longhaired and wire-haired—and colors can vary from solids of red, tan or yellow or combinations of chocolate, black and gray (among others).

Related: The Dogster Guide To Small Dog Breeds

Traits

• Small, long and short
• Tenacious and high-spirited
• Bold and clever
• Lovable
• Loyal

Ideal Human Companion

• Singles
• City dwellers
• Families with older children

What They Are Like to Live With

Dachshunds may look cute and cuddly, but they are tirelessly energetic, clever and curious—some might even say “intense.” Always up for a walk or a game in the park, they can easily get bored when left to their own devices for too long. Sometimes, that can involve chewing things.

Though very loyal to their owners, Miniature Dachshunds can take time to warm up to other people. This is not always bad: Their (sometimes) relentless barking at the sign of strangers makes them an extremely handy-albeit tiny-guard dog.

Dachshunds, true to their hunting lineage, love the outdoors. With a decent-sized yard to run around, they will frolic: chasing small animals, fervently barking and possibly digging a few holes. They will also be happy in an apartment (they are among the most popular city dogs), but require lots of play, interaction and regular walks to stay in physical and mental shape.

Miniature Dachshund dog breed. Photography © gyro | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Things You Should Know

Dachshunds are proud and bold. With proper attention, positive reinforcement and training, they will surprise you with a lovable and dependable temperament. They thrive with single people or families with older children. Very young children could lack the necessary patience and maturity required with Dachshunds.

Miniature dachshunds are prone to back problems, due to their relatively long spine and short rib cage. If allowed to jump down from a bed or couch, they can easily slip a disk. For this reason, it is also important to hold them properly, supporting their full frame.

Also, be sure to ration their food appropriately: Dachshunds can gain weight quickly, causing more back problems and other issues.

A healthy Miniature Dachshund can live as long as 16 years, providing years of fun and companionship.

Miniature Dachshund History

A breed dating back to at least the Middle Ages, Dachshunds-coming from the German dach, which means “badger,” and hund, which means “dog” – were used widely in 17th century Germany as hunting dogs. Their short, sleek frames and an incredible sense of smell allowed them to hunt above ground, below ground and track animals for days at a time. Various sizes were developed over the years-i.e., smaller Dachshunds for hunting foxes and larger Dachshunds for hunting boar-and in 1895 the Dachshund Club of America began to promote the breed in the U.S. Dachshunds can be found in three sizes: Normal, Miniature and Toy.

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Dog Eye Discharge — What’s Normal and What’s Not

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Have you ever wondered if your dog’s eye boogers are normal or not? A dog’s eyes can leak and tear for many reasons, some of which are normal and some of which are not. Tear stains are unsightly, but more importantly, dog eye discharge might indicate a problem that requires vet attention.

According to Beth Kimmitt, DVM, resident of ophthalmology at Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in West Lafayette, Indiana, a dog’s eye is always producing tears, and these tears typically drain at the corners of the eye. “Technically, a normal eye should not have any ocular discharge, but a small amount of clear discharge may be OK,” she tells us. Clear dog eye discharge might look brown and slightly crusty when it dries.

That said, some dog eye discharge is not normal. Read on to find out what’s normal and what needs a vet exam when it comes to dog eye discharge:

Sometimes, dog eye discharge requires a vet visit. Photography by fotoedu/Thinkstock.

This type of dog eye discharge means it’s time to visit the vet.

If your dog has colored green eye discharge, yellow eye discharge or another colored eye discharge, schedule a vet appointment immediately. Other signs of problematic dog eye discharge include squinting, a red-looking eye, or if your dog is rubbing or pawing at his eye. If you think something is wrong with your dog’s eye, don’t wait too long to make that vet appointment — his eyesight could be at risk.

Abnormal eye leakage might signal a dog eye infection or other issues.

“The presence of ocular discharge is a non-specific sign,” Dr. Kimmitt says. “This means that it can be caused by a variety of ocular disorders. Common causes of dog eye discharge include ulcers, entropion, keratoconjunctivitis sicca and conjunctivitis (allergic or bacterial).” A corneal ulcer is damage to the cornea, which is the clear membrane that covers the iris and pupil.

Entropion is a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (called dry eye) is dryness of the conjunctiva, which is membrane that covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis (sometimes called pink eye) is inflammation of the eye. A vet exam and tests can pinpoint the cause of your dog’s abnormal eye discharge.

Certain breeds are prone to dog eye discharge.

Brachycephalic dog breeds like Pugs and Boxers might have slightly more eye leakage than other breeds due to the combination of a short nose and large, round eyes. In these breeds, some dog eye discharge might be normal, especially if it’s clear, but abnormal dog eye boogers deserve a vet visit.

Poodles and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to blocked tear ducts, too. Usually, these ducts drain the tears from your dog’s eyes out through the nose and back of the throat. With the tear ducts blocked, there’s nowhere for the tears to drain, so they spill over the eye rims and run down the face.

If you see brown tear stains, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.

“Dogs with white hair coats (like Maltese, Poodles, etc.) might show the discharge easier than other colors,” Dr. Kimmitt says. You can help minimize dog tear stains by wiping the under-eye area frequently and keeping it as dry as possible. You can also try one of the whitening products sold specifically to help with tear stains.

It’s important to keep your dog’s eye area clean.

“A soft, wet cloth can be used to gently wipe away the discharge,” Dr. Kimmitt advises. You can also use a veterinary eye cleaning product to combat dog eye discharge — just make sure it doesn’t contain any alcohol.

Thumbnail: Photography by Tanantornanutra/Thinkstock.

Originally published in 2017. 

Read Next: Can You Use Human OTC Eye Drops as Eye Drops for Dogs?

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Everything You Need to Know About the Miniature American Shepherd

The post Everything You Need to Know About the Miniature American Shepherd by dogedit appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Proud parent of a Miniature American Shepherd (sometimes referred to as a Miniature Australian Shepherd — but more on that later), or thinking about getting a Miniature American Shepherd? Learn the facts about this breed here:

Quick Facts on the Miniature American Shepherd

Miniature American Shepherd. Photography by Kayla Bertagnolli, as captured at the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

According to the AKC, the weight can be from 20 – 40 pounds. Males are slightly taller in shoulder height at 14 – 18 inches, with females at 13-17 inches.

Miniature American Shepherds are a hardy and rustic breed — a little longer than tall. They have slightly rounded heads, medium-length muzzles and almond-shaped eyes. Their ears are triangular and set high, their chests are deep and their tails are straight. They have a medium-length, weather-resistant coat that’s slightly wavy, creating a little bit of a mane. Like their larger cousins, the Australian Shepherds, Miniature American Shepherds can be found in black, blue merle, red merle, solid-red or red with white and/or tan markings. Overall, Miniature American Shepherds have a rugged but cuddly look.

Miniature American Shepherd Traits:

• High energy
• Playful
• Trainable
• Dependable
• Protective
• Intelligent

Who gets along With Mini American Shepherds?

• Active singles
• Outdoorsy types
• Families with older children
• City dwellers

What Miniature American Shepherds Are Like to Live With

If you’re an apartment dweller who loves boisterous Australian Shepherds, take a look at Miniature American Shepherds, which deliver all of the Aussie’s energetic, dependable playfulness in a much smaller package. With his intelligence, high energy and protectiveness, this is still a breed that must be well socialized and trained.

When it comes to their love of play, Miniature American Shepherds never really outgrow the puppy stage. They are good with older children — the more active, the better. Always monitor them with smaller children and teach the children how to respectfully act toward the dog.

They are eager to work: Give them a job and they’ll finish it with loads of energy to spare.

Miniature American Shepherds have excellent guarding instincts and a strong sense of loyalty to their families. They will definitely cause a ruckus if anything suspicious happens around the house.

Things You Should Know About the Miniature American Shepherd

Left alone indoors for too long, Miniature American Shepherds can go a little batty. They need a lot of exercise. Take them out for a long run as often as possible — the activity and mental stimulation will result in a very content Miniature American Shepherd.

Do Miniature American Shepherds shed? The breed does shed and needs a weekly brushing.

A healthy Miniature American Shepherd can live as long as 13 years. Common health issues include hip dysplasia and cataracts. Some may be born deaf, so test puppies early.

The History Behind the Miniature American Shepherd (and the Breed’s Connection to the Australian Shepherd)

The modern Australian Shepherd has no real connection to Australia. Originating in the Basque region (between Spain and France) as a working dog and sheepherder, the breed drew the name “Australian Shepherd” because many of the Basque shepherds came from Australia. North American breeders developed Miniature American Shepherds from a group of small Australian Shepherds. Their intention was to create a more compact version of the dog without sacrificing its dependable character and keen instincts. They succeeded with flying colors with this dog, which is still sometimes (incorrectly) known as the Mini Aussie, Mini Australian Shepherd and Mini Aussie Dog.

Why Isn’t the Miniature American Shepherd Known as the Miniature Australian Shepherd?

The American breed club of the Mini Aussie sought recognition of the breed at the AKC. The name had to be changed to Miniature American Shepherd and the breed standard slightly revised, particularly regarding size, so there was no confusion with the Australian Shepherd breed standard. It was and can still be a highly debated issue, with some breeders continuing to use the name Miniature Australian Shepherd.

Thumbnail: Photography by Kayla Bertagnolli, as captured at the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. 

If you like the Miniature American Shepherd, you might also like:

• Australian Shepherd
• Border Collie

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Kids + Animals = Kindness and Compassion

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Teachers aren’t always aware when a student in class is homeless
or living in an orphanage. And that child, as you can imagine, may feel embarrassed to share his or her story with classmates for fear of being ostracized.

What helps that child feel more comfortable? A rescue dog sharing his story first.

“(The kids) can relate to the journey of the rescue pet,” says Jayne Vitale, director of education and youth programs at North Shore Animal League America, whose program uses the natural affinity between kids and pets to teach social emotional learning skills. “Look across the classroom; we are all mixed breeds,” she says of the lessons she directs in 4,000 schools and libraries nationwide, using rescue dogs as a model of resilience and hope.
Jayne runs the New York-based shelter’s Mutt-i-grees program, a curriculum developed by Yale University for pre-K to high school aged-kids. Many children, especially those with autism, can identify feelings in dogs better than in people.

Programs like Mutt-i-grees exist around the country and emphasize the reciprocal relationship between kids and dogs. Through learning how to be responsible and considerate toward a pet, kids can strengthen their own ability to connect with others and be an ambassador for kind animal — and human — behavior.

Photo: Marakit_Atinat | Getty Images

Giving and getting help

Every child can get involved in some way, as long as it’s age appropriate.
That’s the premise behind Lisa Wiehebrink’s books, Love Me Gently and Gray Whiskers, written about her rescue dog, Cooper, which she eventually used as the framework for her nonprofit Tails That Teach.

“The way kids treat animals is oftentimes how they will treat people,” says Lisa, who started the program in 2017 and partners with hundreds of schools and shelters nationwide.

Lisa’s books, which are part of a larger kit with a little stuffed Cooper dog, are used for schools’ anti-bullying and kindness weeks, as a gift to families who adopt shelter dogs and community outreach programs.

Related: Kids Reading to Shelter Dogs Help Both Gain Confidence

They teach young kids why we always keep a dog’s collar on, not to poke a sleeping dog and to let a dog eat uninterrupted.

“The underlying theme is kindness to all,” she says. “If we can get these kids at these young ages to be kind and compassionate and responsible, as they get older, they will become compassionate and responsible adults.”

In 2018, Lisa founded National Rescue Dog Day on May 20, which has helped to take the stigma off shelter dogs, mainly by inviting people, and kids, to share photos of their rescues on social media (so far there are 45,000 hashtags dedicated to the day).

The programs aren’t designed as a one-time lesson; they’re meant to stick with the kids long term and supply them with enough confidence as they grow that they’ll continue to encourage others in their communities to help.

Best Friend Animal Society’s Junior Ambassador Program lets kids share their love of animals.

Empowering kids to spread the empathy message

In southern Utah, Best Friends Animal Society launched a junior ambassador’s program in 2019 to give kids an avenue to share their love of animals.

“This is a great way for them to take what they learned home to their own communities,” says Jess Carter, acting manager to the visitor and welcome center.

Related: Take a Look Inside the Best Friends Internship Program

Eight to 13-year-olds can visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, a refuge to nearly 1,600 homeless animals, volunteer their time to help care for and play with the animals, and learn what it takes to save these animals’ lives.

At the end of the tour, kids take an oath to promote animal welfare by finding new ways to get involved in their own communities, and they receive a junior ambassador’s badge.

“It is important to empower kids and let them know they can make a difference in the lives of animals,” Jess says. “They will be the ones fighting for the animals in the future.” 

#PawsPawsForThisCause

Bring these programs to your child’s school. They can be incorporated into the school’s existing curriculum. For more information or to download resources, visit education.muttigrees.org and tailsthatteach.org.

Familiarize your kids with the local shelter. The stigma against adoption dissipates as kids interact with rescue pets, become emotionally attached to them and empathize with their life stories.

Assign your kids age-appropriate pet responsibilities at home. Giving your kids a sense of what it feels like to have another living creature rely on them teaches commitment and builds self-confidence.

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Is Your Dog Scared of Thunder? 6 Tips for Soothing Him

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Is your dog scared of thunder? Why do certain dogs become fearful of loud noises such as thunder and fireworks, but others remain unruffled? Nobody’s completely sure. In some cases, puppyhood trauma (such as being tied up outside for long intervals) may have something to do with it. Some owners claim that specific breed temperaments may play a role, and in other cases, sensitive hearing or separation anxiety may contribute. What’s certain is that for some canines, a minor case of nerves can escalate into a full-blown phobia — an excessively panicked, irrational, chronic fear response.

What Are Dogs Scared Of? How to Help Dogs Overcome Their Fears

Is your dog scared of thunder? Photography ©hidako | Thinkstock.

Dealing with a dog scared of thunder — my personal story

My dog Grant is scared of thunder. Like many dogs who struggle with unexplained fear of thunder, Grant seems unusually sensitive to any storm-related occurrence, such as changes in barometric pressure. Once the rumbles begin, his anxiety rapidly escalates into overwhelming terror. So, for us, it’s especially unfortunate that summer’s humid conditions can produce some of the biggest storms of the year.

A dog scared of thunder can result in hiding, urinating, excessive panting, drooling, trembling, whining, eye-rolling and/or frantic efforts to escape. If you’re Grant, they include all of the above … and some of his escape efforts have led to painful injury. The cruel irony is that if we, as owners, fawn over Grant or try to over-comfort him, we’re essentially reinforcing his panic behavior. A dog often interprets this pronounced reassurance as confirmation that the event taking place truly is worthy of panic.

Check out Whole Dog Journal’s tips for soothing a dog who is afraid of thunder >>

There’s no guarantee that you can ever fully resolve your dog’s fear of thunder. Is your dog scared of thunder? There are ways that you can manage it effectively. Here are six strategies — from a Thundershirt for dogs to increasing exercise — that have worked especially well for us:

1. Watch your own behavior during a thunderstorm

If you remember nothing else, remember this: Constant petting or consoling is often interpreted by pets as a reward for the fearful response — or reinforcement that the fearful response is warranted. Conversely, punishment will only increase a panicked pet’s anxiety level. Our solution? Projecting a calm, cool vibe and giving Grant attention in the form of playing, grooming, or other activities he normally enjoys.

Manufacturers of the Thundershirt claim an 80% success rate when it comes to calming fearful canines. Photography by Marybeth Bittel.

2. Use the Thundershirt to lessen your dog’s fear of thunder

Not to state this too strongly, but the Thundershirt is a miracle. This snug garment (available online or at most pet-supply stores) attaches around Grant’s body with Velcro and produces a “swaddling” effect that calms down his panicked panting. It often begins working within minutes, and on a few occasions Grant has actually drifted off to sleep (yes!). Complementary therapies we sometimes use include Rescue Remedy, which is based on calming Bach flower essences, and Ark Naturals Happy Traveler, a botanically based chew that can produce a calming effect. You can also try calming essential oils or pheromones, such as the canine-calming pheromone DAP. This can be found in Comfort Zone products.

3. Switch environments when it starts to thunder

Changing your pet’s location can be surprisingly effective, because it may help reduce the storm’s volume level or make your pet less aware of it. Grant, for instance, likes to hang out on the bathroom rug with the overhead fan droning away whenever it storms outside. This creates a “white noise” that blocks out the sounds that disturb him.

Allowing your pet access to the basement, or a room without windows, may have a similar effect. Some pups find that a closet or the area under the bed feels especially safe and secure. If your pet heads for his crate, try covering it with a blanket to increase feelings of security. However, keep the crate door open so your pet won’t feel confined (which can dramatically increase anxiety).

4. Increase exercise before a thunderstorm starts

When thunderstorms are predicted, we try to take Grant for a few extra walks before the clouds roll in. This helps to tire him both mentally and physically. Many vets claim that it can also boost natural serotonin levels, which then act as a natural calming aid.

5. Use counterconditioning during a thunderstorm

This fancy behavioral term simply means we help Grant to associate something negative (the thunderstorm) with something positive. For example, we keep Grant’s all-time favorite toy hidden away and bring it out to play when he begins to feel nervous about an approaching storm. We’ll sometimes feed him an extra-special treat during these times, as well, such as a small piece of bacon or cheese. This diverts his focus, and enjoying the treat/toy during the storm has gradually helped to recondition his response.

6. Try desensitization if your dog is scared of thunder

We practice this during the off-season for thunderstorms, usually over the winter. To begin, simply play a CD or iPod mix of storm sounds at an extremely soft level. While your dog remains relaxed at this level, say a simple cue word like “chill” and provide a yummy treat every 15 seconds or so. Then, gradually extend the time your pet needs to remain relaxed before earning the treat.

Once your pup can remain relaxed on command, increase the volume a single notch and repeat the process. If at any time your pet shows pronounced fear or panic, go back to the previous volume level, say the cue word, and reward for staying calm. When an actual storm takes place, continue using this same cue/reward system.

Grant exhibits a fairly intense fear response when it comes to thunderstorms. The good news is we’ve managed to help him cope without resorting to the use of pharmaceuticals. If none of these approaches work for you, have a candid conversation with your vet. In extreme cases, there are medications that can help keep your pup comfortable. But take a cue from Grant — a little dedication and ingenuity from you may be all that’s necessary to help your canine cope successfully!

Thumbnail: Photography © garybis | iStock / Getty Images Plus. 

This piece was originally published on August 10, 2015.

Read more stories about dogs with anxieties and phobias on Dogster.com:

• 6 Things to Remember When You Have a Fearful Dog
• Help! My Dog is Scared of Everything

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Meet the Service Dog Helping the Mystic Aquarium Save Seals

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Heather Bring applied for a service canine full of hope the dog would help change her life. “I became disabled and, when that happened, it was really hard. I didn’t know where my life was going to go,” Heather says.

The Rhode Island woman battles two debilitating health problems: Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), which weakens the connective tissue in her body. And Pseudotumor cerebri, a condition that causes increased pressure on her brain, causing headaches and vision problems.

Heather needed a service dog to help her bend over and pick things up. Not being able to do that anymore was heartbreaking. Before Heather suffered health problems, one of her favorite things to do was walk the beach and pick up plastic trash, so it didn’t harm marine mammals. When she could no longer do that, she worried animals would become entangled in garbage and suffer.

Then one day, three years after Heather applied, she finally got good news: a beautiful Golden Retriever mix named Marea was waiting to meet her. The two instantly connected. Heather knew Marea was the perfect fit.

“She’s pretty incredible,” Heather says. “It’s hard to put that in words.”

But what Heather didn’t know is Marea was not only about to change her life, but she would also help save the lives of other animals, too. Once Marea got acclimated, Heather brought her to the beach, and Marea soon learned how to help Heather resume her conservation efforts. Marea picks garbage off the shore and brings it to Heather, who bags it and carries it off the beach. “It’s awesome,” she says. “I feel like she loves it.”

Photo: Sarah Callan

Not only does this dynamic duo help keep beaches debris-free, Heather and Marea are also volunteer first responders for Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program. Marea is the first canine ever to hold the position.

When the aquarium’s hotline gets a report of an animal that may need help, Heather and Marea race out to assess the situation. One of their goals is to keep people and pets away from marine mammals on the beach.

“I call it seal sitting,” Heather says. “We’ll sit out with a seal on a beach and stay far enough away, so he is not bothered. People will come up to us, instead of the seal. It gives us a way to educate people to stay away from the seal. We also talk about how they can help animals by picking up trash.”

Photo: KenCanning | Getty Image

In the meantime, Heather monitors the seal to see if the animal is entangled in plastic or appears to need help. “Sometimes seals are just sunning themselves and not stranded,” she says.

Heather also teaches kids, besides being illegal, why it’s crucial people don’t bother seals. “I open Marea’s mouth and say a seal’s teeth are bigger than this!”

The pair are still out on East Coast beaches helping to change the world. Heather is so grateful she has the best partner she could have ever asked for.

“She is an extension of myself,” she says. “After everything I’ve had to endure, having her by my side is giving me more power and confidence to get out there and do what we need to do to help the environment and help other animals.”

Top photograph: Heather Bring

Read Next: 10 Types of Service Dogs and What They Do

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12 Healthy Feeding Tips

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What’s your dog worth to you? Forget trying to come up with a dollar amount. What your dog does every day to make you smile, feel good and be motivated to play is doggone priceless, right?

Our dogs especially stepped up their game for us as we shelter in place and practice social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. So, now is the ideal time to return the favor by investing in your four-legged ally by picking the right foods and treats. Just keep in mind that what a pup needs nutritionally is far different than for a dog in his prime or one sporting a gray muzzle.

Dogster reached out to top pet-care experts for some feeding tips. Some of their responses just may surprise you.

Photo: Digital Vision | Getty Images

Tasty perks for puppies

Introduce probiotics early on: “Probiotics are a really good addition when bringing home a puppy,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, a pet-food cookbook author, who operates a holistic pet health care practice in Woodstown, New Jersey. “Excitement, fear, diet changes, water changes and travel can all contribute to digestive upset and loose stools. Probiotics can help the transition.”

Size and breed does matter: “Giant breed puppies have different dietary requirements than teacup-sized puppies,” says Dr. Kathryn Primm, owner of Applebrook Animal Hospital in Ooltewah, Tennessee. “Please consult your veterinarian, who can make the best dietary recommendations for your puppy that are based on genetics and lifestyle.”

Related: Schedules and Guides for Feeding Puppies

Dr. Jean Hofve, a holistic veterinarian and author from Jamestown, Colorado, advises to feed your fast-growing pup three to four measured meals a day to keep his digestive system operating at its optimal best. “A puppy’s stomach can’t hold enough food to provide optimal nutrition in one or two big meals, so divide the food amount into three or four mini-meals a day.”

Expand your pup’s protein palate: Do not limit your pup to one type of protein, such as beef or chicken, during his first year. “I recommend you rotate different proteins to avoid your puppy from developing a sensitivity to one protein,” says Dr. Elisa Katz, owner of Holistic Veterinary Center in Downers Grove, Illinois. “So, if you like one particular pet food brand, consider rotating through its various flavors, such as beef, chicken and fish.”

 Rapid fire those healthy treats: “To start a puppy off right with positive reinforcement training, you need a lot of repetition of treats in small bites,” says Maureen Patin, certified professional dog trainer and co-owner of What A Great Dog training center based in Frisco and Richardson, Texas. “You need to keep a puppy mentally stimulated, so try stuffing a Kong toy or a Toppl treat toy with moist food and freezing it. The pup has to work to get to that food, and the cold is soothing to the gums. Making the meal last 20 minutes or so is far more satisfying to a puppy than just quickly devouring food from a bowl every meal.”

Photo: ©Chalabala | Getty Images

Awesome feeding tips for adult dogs

Go organic on a budget: Organic chicken liver is a healthy “topper” for your adult dog and won’t be as pricey as organic steak. “Adding organic meats is a plus and so are vegetables, such as green beans,” Dr. Hofve says. “But be sure to give green beans to your dog steamed or puréed — not raw — to get the real nutritional value out of them.”

Photo: elenaleonova | Getty Images

Don’t forget fresh foods: “Even if you are feeding a kibble-type food, adding about 30 percent of the calories as fresh foods will greatly improve overall nutritional quality, health and longevity,” Dr. Morgan says.

Her fresh faves? Cooked eggs, sardines, steamed kale, blueberries and steamed or sautéed shiitake mushrooms.

Related: What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

Keep schooling your dog: Mealtime is of key importance to your dog. Use that time to reinforce obedience cues and maybe learn a new trick. “Dogs are like us and can succumb to ‘boredom eating,’” Dr. Primm says. “I offer my dog her measured portion calculated to what her needs are. Any other treats she gets, she works for, or at least has to find in a puzzle toy or hidden somewhere to stretch her mind.”

Choose bowls wisely: Select stainless-steel bowls for your dog’s food and water needs. “Stainless-steel bowls contain no dyes or paints and can be sterilized easily in the dishwasher,” Dr. Katz says. “I have found that stainless-steel bowls are also not likely to cause any skin irritations that some plastic or ceramic pet bowls can cause.”

Photo: Photoboyko | Getty Images

Sensational ideas for feeding senior dogs

Know the ins and outs of your dog: “A healthy weight for senior dogs is a formula of ‘in’ versus ‘out,’” Dr. Primm says. “Obesity is especially hard on our older dogs. Their joints are already experiencing age-associated wear, so if your dog is not burning calories because it is raining a lot, consider reducing his portion.”

Bring on the broth: Make friends with your local butcher and slow cook an organic bone in water. “Bone broth is magical for older dogs,” says Dr. Karen Becker, an integrative wellness veterinarian and co-founder of the Companion Animal Nutrition and Wellness Institute. “Bone broth is fantastic for older dogs who need extra fluids and may be finicky eaters or have sensitive tummies. Just make sure the broth does not contain salt or onions.” If your dog has a health issue like chronic stomach issues or pancreatitis, discuss bone broth with your veterinarian first.

Cue it up for quinoa: Denise Fleck, president of the Grey Muzzle Organization, who also shares her Atlanta, Georgia, home with a senior dog named Haiku is a big fan of including steamed quinoa in your dog’s bowl. “Quinoa contains all eight essential amino acids, so it is nearly a perfect food,” she adds.

Give your dog an O for Omega: “Senior dogs need supplements that provide joint support and brain support,” Dr. Morgan says. “Omega-3 fatty acids are great for both.”

Good omega-3 sources: fresh-cooked salmon, krill, cod or canned sardines. Or, you can add a high-quality fish oil supplement. Dr. Morgan’s selection tips: “The supplement should have no odor, be liquid instead of capsule form and not stored in plastic bottles. Store the fish oil in a cool place.”

Featured photo: David Baileys | Getty Images

Read Next Should You Try Holistic Dog Food?

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A Lesson About Abscesses

The post A Lesson About Abscesses by Dr. Ernie Ward appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

For such a petite pooch, she sure packed a powerful growl. I slowly withdrew my stethoscope and hoped the client didn’t notice my nervousness. I had only been in practice about a year and was about to get a lesson in how to approach abscesses in dogs.

Shelly, 5 pounds of menacing Yorkshire Terrier capped with a rhinestone collar and pink barrette, continued tracking me with a threatening glare. I had a primeval premonition she was about to lunge off the table and latch onto my neck, vampire style. I briskly stepped away from the exam table, nodding at her owner to indicate I was done with my exam. Shelly’s owner looked at me utterly confused.

“So, what is it? You barely looked at her! Why has my babykins been crying and licking her hip since last night? Come to Mommy, my wittle sweetums.” As her owner clutched her close, I swear Shelly smirked a killer’s smile. I hoped her owner didn’t notice my knees shaking.

In veterinary school you’re taught to organize your diagnostic approach based on a patient’s symptoms, signalment (species, breed, gender, age, etc.), and physical examination. I figured two out of three was a good start.

It was early spring 1993 in Asheville, North Carolina, and a run of sunny days was beginning to melt the memory of one of the harshest winters in history. Shelly lived on a repurposed dairy farm that was now home to more sofas than stalls, dutifully patrolling the fence line, presumably on the lookout for trespassing novice veterinarians. Shelly’s mom recounted that they had spent the past few days cleaning out an old shed, Shelly by her side as “Mommy’s wittle worker.” The Yorkie shot me a look I interpreted as “Mommy’s big bodyguard.” I believed her.

Shelly had begun whimpering and licking an area on her hip the night before. Her owner tried to inspect the “hurty spot,” but Shelly “cried big tears.” When I asked if Shelly tried to bite her, she gasped. “Good lord, Dr. Ward! What kind of dog do you think she is?” I had an idea, but I kept it to myself.

Related: The Five Most Common Dog Physical Problems

I had worked with animals since I was a young boy, and I had a pretty good hunch what was going on with Shelly. The tricky part was how to prove I was right, and then not lose a limb in the process.

While it’s true that abscesses are less common in dogs than cats, I’ve found canines to be bigger crybabies when it comes to these painful skin infections. I’ve had cats appear oblivious to quarter-sized gaping wounds when dogs often “cry big tears” with pea-sized swellings. No judgment here.

What is an abscess?

In simplest terms, an abscess occurs when an organism or foreign body penetrates the skin and gets trapped underneath the skin. This is most often the result of a puncture wound, scratch, or an animal or insect bite. The immune system responds by attacking the foreign material, causing swelling and pus to accumulate within the injury capsule over a couple of days.

One of the reasons abscesses are less common in dogs than cats may be due to the fact that a cat’s tougher, more elastic skin quickly seals over puncture sites, while many canine skin injuries remain open, allowing drainage and healing. Most abscesses eventually rupture, resulting in an open wound. Some will form a hard, granulomatous mass that may persist for months to years as it is slowly resorbed.

Treating an abscess generally requires lancing it to drain the offending organisms or remove the foreign body, and a round of antibiotics. This is usually done by numbing the area and administering a sedative and pain relief. Many times, we never discover what caused the abscess.

“You think something bit my baby luv? What was it? Bear? Rattlesnake? Pack of wolves?”

I wanted to say “thorn” or “non-venomous spider,” but didn’t have the guts.

“What do you mean you can’t tell? There are bears everywhere! And I’m pretty sure I heard howling last full moon. I bet she was attacked when I wasn’t looking! I feel terrible! I’m so sorry, Mommy’s moochie-face!”

As I took Shelly from her owner to begin the procedure, I felt relieved when I didn’t have to extract a row of canines jutting from my jugular. In fact, I noticed Shelly sink into my chest, almost as if to say she trusted me. As Shelly lay in a peacefully prescribed slumber, I lanced and drained the abscess, administered an antibiotic, and cradled her in my arms while she recovered.

After about 10 minutes, Shelly began to rouse. I swear I saw waves of gratitude appear in her eyes. Believing we had made a human-animal bond breakthrough, I decided to try what I saw Shelly’s mom do: I leaned in for a kiss and whispered, “Is Mommy’s wittle moochie-face feeling better?”

Maybe I wasn’t as quick back then, or maybe Shelly was slowed down a bit by the sedative, but let’s just say when I returned her to her owner, I was sporting a fresh Band-Aid on my nose. Well-played, Shelly. Lesson learned.

Featured photo: Kerkez | Getty Images

Read Next: 6 Questions Your Dog’s Vet Should Be Asking You

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Dog Vaccinations: Are Lumps at the Site of a Shot Normal?

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Pebbles had her dog vaccinations a week ago Saturday. She received rabies, DHLPPC and Bordetella. I discovered today that Pebbles has a round lump on her right side on the muscle of her back.

I called the vet this morning and was told that lumps after vaccinations are pretty common–it should go away on its own in a week or two. She told me to watch for signs that it’s hurting/bothering her and to bring her in if that happens.

Is this the correct thing to do? Should I go ahead and take her in? Or just watch it like the vet said? – Sheena X, Texas.

Your vet may recommend vaccines for dogs based on location. (Photography by Shutterstock)

It is not uncommon for dogs to develop small lumps at the sites where they receive vaccines. In my experience, the rabies vaccine is particularly likely to cause this reaction.

Vaccines, by nature, are designed to stimulate the immune system. Lumps after dog vaccinations can occur for two reasons. First, the immune system can become active at the site of the injection, causing an infiltration of immune cells that leads to a small lump. Second, a lymph node near the injection site may become activated and enlarged for a period of time after the injection. These responses do not occur in every dog, but they generally are nothing to worry about.

Related: Which Vaccines Are Most Essential for Dogs?

I have seen post-vaccination lumps on dogs persist for several months. The lump on Pebbles should not grow, cause pain or produce a discharge or foul odor. These symptoms can be signs of a more serious reaction to vaccination, such as an infection at the injection site. As well, have Pebbles checked if she seems sick or lethargic in any way. The odds are good that the lump will resolve spontaneously over time.

Of course, if you are worried about Pebbles, it never hurts to have a vet check her out.

A note to people with cats: post-vaccination lumps also occur in our feline companions. However, these lumps (especially if they occur at the site of a rabies or leukemia vaccine) are potential harbingers of serious problems in the future. If your cat develops a lump after a vaccination, always have a veterinarian evaluate the area.

Featured photograph: Shutterstock.

Read Next: What You Need to Know About the Rabies Vaccine

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When You Have To Rehome Your Dog

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What happens when you become seriously ill or have a big life change (divorce/job loss) and have to move into a pet-unfriendly location? You look to friends and family to take in your beloved pup, but no one can step up. So, who can you turn to? That’s where the nonprofit pet adoption site Adopt-a-Pet.com’s new program, Rehome, comes in.

Related: What Do You Do When a Dog Really Needs to Be Rehomed?

After extensive research, Adopt-a-Pet.com launched Rehome with the support of the Petco Foundation. Dana Puglisi, director of marketing and communications for Adopt-a-Pet.com, says, “Rehome is the groundbreaking, peer-to-peer pet adoption platform that allows pet owners who can no longer keep their beloved pets to find great new adopters for them using Adopt-a-Pet.com’s adoptable pet search engine.”

The Rehome program advertises the pet to millions of prospective pet adopters. Adoption experts then guide you through the screening of applicants, so you can choose the right adopter for your pet, then help you with finalizing the adoption contract.

“We will also donate that pet’s adoption fee in full to the animal shelter or rescue who referred them into the system,” Dana says. “So, we’re not only helping to reduce the burden on local animal welfare organizations, but we’re also helping them to fundraise to save more pets.”

The program is already a success — to date, Rehome has taken in more than a quarter million pets. For more information about the Adopt-a-Pet.com’s Rehome program, go to the website rehome.adoptapet.com.

Top photograph: corners74 | Getty Images

Read Next: How to Survive a Puppy

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This Doggie Daycare Hosted a Birthday Party for Snoopy

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Snoopy celebrated his birthday on August 10 and dogs at Dogtopia Day Care Centers had an absolute blast partying. Check out photos of these adorable pups celebrating Snoopy’s big day.

All photos courtesy of Dogtopia.

Read Next: Dug Up at Dogster August 2020 Dog Events

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Basset Hound

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Ears to you! Three cheers to the Basset Hound, one of the most familiar faces in dogdom. But while we may know him as a comical-looking sad sack, the breed has an illustrious history, from the hunting fields to the advertising agencies of Madison Avenue. Here are seven fun facts about the charming Basset Hound.

1 Basset history

The Basset Hound dates back to sixth-century France, a time when many different strains of hounds were bred. Most strains had both a tall version and a short-legged one under 16 inches, which were called “basset” (“bas” in French means low set). Both the Basset and his longer-legged cousin, the Bloodhound, are believed to be descendants of the famous St. Hubert hounds. St. Hubert was a churchman, the patron saint of the hunt, who set out to develop a new strain of hound that looked similar to today’s Bloodhound. Many historians believe the Basset was the result of a mutation in the St. Hubert strain. This short-legged, dwarfed hound, with slower movement and low-set form, was to prove invaluable to hunters on foot in search of small game. Packs of Bassets were used to drive small prey, such as rabbit and hare, from dense undercover into open terrain where the hunters could move in. The sport of pack hunting with Basset Hounds continues to this day in France and England.

Photo: GlobalP | Getty Images

2 Not a “small” anything

The Basset Hound is often thought of as a small dog. Not so! The Basset is a large, short, solid and long dog. The American Kennel Club breed standard explains that the Basset is “… heavier in bone … [for its size] … than any other breed of dog … The forelegs are short, powerful, heavy in bone … the paw is massive, very heavy with tough heavy pads.” While Bassets should stand no taller than 14 inches at the shoulder, an adult male can weigh as much as 75 pounds, 65 pounds for a female.

3 Scenthound extraordinaire

The Basset Hound’s sense of smell and ability to ground-scent is second only to the Bloodhound. One of the breed’s hallmarks are the extremely long, low-set ears that, when drawn forward, fold well over the end of the nose. The breed standard describes them as “velvety in texture, hanging in loose folds with the ends curling slightly inward.” The loose, elastic skin around the Basset’s neck, along with the long, trailing ears, help trap the scent of whatever they are tracking. The looseness of the skin gives Bassets their characteristic facial wrinkles, and they are droolers as well. The standard further clarifies that while the breed’s movement is “… deliberate, it is in no sense clumsy… [and] is capable of great endurance in the field.” There are Bassets that happily do agility. The breed needs daily exercise, and there is nothing inherently lazy about them.

Photo: MirasWonderland | Getty Images

4 What is a “hound color?”

While most Basset Hounds are black, white and tan, the breed standard says that “any recognized hound color is acceptable, and the distribution of color and markings is of no importance.” That means that, as with Beagles and Foxhounds, we have red-and-white and lemon-and-white Bassets that pop up regularly, in addition to the popular tricolor pattern. The tricolors can also vary from mostly black dogs with a bit of white and tan trim, to mostly white dogs with patches of color. Occasionally we even see blue-gray Bassets, too, with speckling over the body. The philosophy is that a good, functional hound cannot be a bad color.

5 Temperament

Basset Hounds are strong, robust dogs, friendly and tolerant of children and other pets. They make wonderful family companions. Typical hounds, they are also stubborn and vocal, particularly when following a tantalizing scent. Be prepared to handle Bassets patiently and firmly.

Photo: PictureLux | The Hollywood Archive | Alamy Stock Image

6 Basset Hound popular culture

Few breeds have enjoyed the media exposure that the Basset has. Way back on February 27, 1928, Time magazine featured a Basset on its front cover to promote a story on the celebrated Westminster Kennel Club dog show at Madison Square Garden. The syndicated comic strip Fred Basset has appeared in newspapers since 1963. In the early days of television, Elvis Presley famously sang Hound Dog to a disinterested, top hat-wearing Basset named Sherlock on The Steve Allen Show on July 1, 1956. Elvis owned Bassets and was a huge fan of the breed.

In the Smokey and the Bandit movie series, a Basset named Fred was personally picked by lead actor Burt Reynolds because he refused to obey commands. On television, in The Dukes of Hazzard series, Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane had a Basset called Flash. In the TV series Columbo, the character of Lt. Columbo owned a Basset named Dog. Actor Peter Falk was reluctant at first to give his character yet another gimmick but when the two met, he said the Basset was “exactly the type of dog” that his character, in the perpetually rumpled trench coat, would own.

Bassets have also been popular in advertising campaigns. The logo for Hush Puppies brand shoes has featured a Basset for many decades, and to this day many people refer to the breed as “hush puppies.” A Basset also served as the companion to the lonely Maytag repairman in Maytag appliance ads.

7 Celebrity Basset owners

Besides Elvis, many other stars have fallen for the charms of the whimsical Basset Hound. Past and present celebrity owners of the breed include Clint Eastwood, David Arquette, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Rex Harrison, Angelina Jolie, George Clooney, Jennifer Lawrence and Shakira.

Top photograph: ananaStock | Getty Images

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