The post Dog Monthly and Daily Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
Celebrate your dog every day and every way but especially on these fun dog national holidays. Don’t see a dog holiday here? Just email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will add it to the list!
The post Dog Monthly and Daily Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
The post Dug Up at Dogster: 2022 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
Bring in the new year 2022 with these fun dog events and dog holidays. Don’t see your dog event on the list? Email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will include your dog event.
Join the Kennel Club of Palm Springs New Year Classic – the largest dog show West of the Mississippi. Event held at the Empire Polo Grounds venue. The show is all outside, except for the vendor building. Breed and Group specialties on January 6th and 7th. All-breed show and designated specialties on January 8th and all-breed show on January 9th. Details at kennelclubpalmsprings.org.
Held at Pier 36 in New York, NY. Stream live the 9th Annual Masters Agility Championship Preliminaries from 8 am to 4pm on Saturday, January 22nd. See the live telecast of the the 9th Annual Masters Agility Championships Finals on FS1 or on the FOX NOW app or FOX Sports app from 8 pm to 10:30pm. More at westminsterkennelclub.org.
Judging at Pier 36 and Finals at Madison Square Garden. Tickets, details and Covid protocals at westminsterkennelclub.org. For live-streaming and television times, click here.
Meet adoptable pets, reps from local pet rescue organizations, pet experts and enjoy shopping for top pet products. Social #superpetexpo. More info at superpetexpo.com/edison
January 29, 2022: 5th Annual Phoenix Doggie Street Festival
Takes place at Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix, AZ 85012. West’s largest adopt-a-thon and pet celebration with music, eats, vet tips, dog products and services, speakers, contest and more. All at doggiestreetfestival.org.
The post Dug Up at Dogster: 2022 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
The post All Hail Jaqweenie! by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
Jaqweenie caught my eye after seeing his popular TikTok video, which showed his world being “rocked” by a cut on his foot. His human, Jean Mosher, says, “He was shaking, panting and licking his paw.”
Thinking it was pretty serious, Jean rushed him to the vet but it turned out to be just a tiny cut. “Even though Jaqweenie was totally OK, I want to remind people that when in doubt, it’s really important to bring your dog to the vet. Excessive vocalizations, constant localized grooming, differences in sleeping, drinking and/or eating, altered breathing (panting), changes to the eyes (squinting or changes to the pupils), difficulty resting, withdrawing or seeking affection and aggressive behaviors are all signs that your dog is in pain. Be an advocate for your dog!”
Jean and husband Kirby Culbertson adopted Jaqweenie from local rescue Saving Grace in 2018, and he will be about 4 years old this December. “Jaqweenie was pretty fearful when we first got him,” she says, “and was even afraid to go on walks around the neighborhood. He’s really come out of his shell and is quite an adventurous fellow now.”
Jaqweenie’s tiny lower jaw is crooked so one of his lower canines was poking a hole in the roof of his mouth. “Two vets said that it was fine like that, but common sense told me something was wrong,” Jean says. “I took him to a doggie dentist who determined that the tooth was wearing away the bone on the roof of his mouth and would eventually pierce his sinus cavity. We had that tooth pulled and he’s doing much better. I share this story because it’s important to remember that vets can be wrong and that you have to be an advocate for your pet.”
Jaqweenie’s favorite thing to do is eat. Jean says, “He also enjoys having his picture taken (because he knows he’ll get treats for posing), hanging out at the dog park with his friends, playing with tiny tennis balls, biting people’s fingers, chasing squirrels, rock climbing trips and outings, especially to the hardware store”
Jaqweenie’s social media accounts are first and foremost intended to make people happy. “I can’t tell you how often I hear about someone having a bad day and how seeing Jaqweenie’s picture is uplifting,” says Jean. “Sometimes just knowing that Jaqweenie is out there living his best life makes people happy, even if their lives aren’t going well.”
She hopes people see Jaqweenie’s account and consider not just adopting but possibly adopting a pet that may be a little different. Following @ TunaMeltsMyHeart over the years gave Jean the confidence to adopt Jaqweenie, knowing that he could have a great life in spite of his deformity. “Adopting and fostering are things that regular people like me can do that can literally save lives.”
The post All Hail Jaqweenie! by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
The post New World Record for Longest Ears by Jackie Brown 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.
A 3-year-old dog named Lou recently broke the Guinness World Record for Longest Ears on a Living Dog.
Each of the female Black-and-Tan Coonhound’s ears measures an impressive 34 centimeters/13.38 inches long. Lou’s owner, Paige Olsen, who is a veterinary technician, told Guinness that Lou attracts a lot of attention from strangers, and that everyone always wants to touch her ears.
The record for the Longest Ears on a Dog Ever is held by a Bloodhound named Tigger, whose ears measured 34.9 centimeters right ear and 34.2 left ear.
The post New World Record for Longest Ears by Jackie Brown 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.
The post Saving Guadalajara’s Street Dogs by Alan De Herrera 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.
Each year, millions of Americans travel to Mexico in search of warm and beautiful beaches, colorful little towns, shopping and, of course, delicious traditional Mexican cuisine. One of the best food destinations is Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara, located in the tequila-rich state of Jalisco. But traversing through the city and surrounding rural towns reveals another group of hungry food seekers — Guadalajara’s street dogs.
The National Institute of Statistics and Geography states that nearly 70% of Mexican households own pets. It’s common to see owners walking the streets, shopping and eating out with their furry companions. Veterinary care has risen exponentially in recent years with dogs becoming more like family members, living indoors and receiving preventive healthcare.
Courtesy Alan de Herrera
Regardless, more dogs are ending up on the streets. The pandemic has exacerbated the problem as more people have found themselves jobless and downsizing during tough economic times. In some cases, the dogs are the first to go.
Meet Lawrence Smith, an American ex-pat who’s been saving street dogs in Guadalajara for over 20 years. “At first I started taking those off the street that were abused and abandoned,” Lawrence says. “They were scared. Soon I had 75 dogs in my house and had to find a bigger place.”
Six years ago he officially founded his 501(c)(3) nonprofit Saint Vincent’s Home, a no-kill shelter for stray dogs located on the outskirts of the city. Here, he works tirelessly to save as many as he can. “We have nearly 300 dogs currently, with very little resources to care for all of them,” he says. Food and veterinary costs are his biggest expense. “We spay or neuter every dog we bring in, and each one gets a full medical examination,” Lawrence says. While he receives some local support along with donations from his Facebook followers in the United States, his limited retirement income is needed to cover most of these costs. “It’s overwhelming, but we always seem to find a way to squeeze one more in,” he says. “These dogs deserve a second chance.”
Lawrence Smith at Saint Vincent’s Home
I can personally vouch for Mexican dogs. My wife adopted a Border Collie mix named Capitán from Mexico City. We have fun teaching him English! But sometimes when he hears Spanish or smells tacos, his ears perk up and his mood changes. Perhaps it’s true what they say … you can take the dog out of Mexico but not the Mexico out of the dog.
So next time you travel south of the border, consider a trip to vibrant Guadalajara. And while you are there, stop by Saint Vincent’s Home. You might just fall in love.
The post Saving Guadalajara’s Street Dogs by Alan De Herrera 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.
The post German Shepherd Dog 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 German Shepherd Dog who’s looking to learn more or thinking about getting a GSD? Learn the facts about this dog breed here.
German Shepherd Dog Facts
What is the typical size of a German Shepherd dog? Photography by Polryaz / Shutterstock.
Weight: 60 – 85 pounds (27.22 – 38.56 kg)
Height: 23 – 25 inches (58.42 – 63.50 cm)
German Shepherd Dogs (or GSD, as they’re sometimes known!) have a noble, proportioned and commanding look. A typical GSD’s body — slightly longer than tall — is sturdy but lean. He has a slightly convex forehead, long muzzle, pointed ears and almond-shaped eyes that are set (as opposed to protruding) with an amiable expression. The neck slopes down to muscular shoulders and legs. The back legs are solid and the tail bushy. Normally black and tan, sable or just black, they also come in blue and white. They come in three versions: shorthaired (sometimes called rough-coated), medium-haired and longhaired.
German Shepherd Dog Breed Traits:
German Shepherd Dogs tend to be protective. Photography by jody/shutterstock.
Handsome and well-built
Intelligent and eager
Loyal
Hard-working
Strong-willed and fearless
Obedient and protective
Handy
Who Gets Along With German Shepherd Dogs?
Energetic people
Active families
Disciplinarians
A-Type Personalities
What Are German Shepherd Dogs Like to Live With?
German Shepherd Dogs are fierce but friendly. Photography by Grigorita Ko / Shutterstock.
German Shepherd Dogs are fierce but friendly, and have a calm confidence that may seem kind of aloof. When in need, however, a GSD is instantly ready to protect, play a game or perform a task — in some cases as a guard dog, police dog, herder, seeing eye dog or other service dog. With a strong work ethic and an eager intelligence, they crave challenges.
Not to be left alone in the house too long, German Shepherd Dogs crave interaction and involvement. They are fiercely protective of their homes and families — sometimes known to “herd” children — and they get along with other pets. Standoffish and detached with strangers or those outside the family unit, they have been known to “over-guard” or bark protectively.
German Shepherd Dogs have great instincts and fertile minds. Lots of activity and exercise will make them happy, but tracking, obedience and agility games — or any task-oriented activity — will make them even happier. A bored or neglected German Shepherd Dog may resort to chewing furniture, digging up flowers and other mischief.
Things You Should Know About German Shepherd Dogs
The benefits of a GSD — loyalty, protectiveness and eagerness, to name a few — come from careful obedience training and authority. Everyone in the household must to show “authority” and earn the dog’s respect with a firm but loving touch. They do not respond to negativity or anger. Once achieved, this respect may need to be earned again and again.
German Shepherd Dogs don’t need to be bathed very often, but they tend to shed in great quantities. Brush them daily, outside if possible. Like any large dog, they can handle apartment living quite well but need daily walks and, if possible, vigorous exercise to stay sharp.
Some common health problems include hip and elbow dysplasia, skin allergies and pancreas deficiencies, They normally live up to 12 years.
German Shepherd Dog History
German Shepherd Dogs are actually a pretty new breed. Photography by Runa Kazakova / Shutterstock.
The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively new breed, almost entirely developed in the 20th century. Attempting to create a standard herding dog for his country, German breeder Capt. Max von Stephanitz invented the Deutsche Schäferhunde in 1899 from a mix of early shepherd dogs having various coat lengths, textures, body types and colors. Stephanitz’s aim was to develop a standard sheep-herding dog with the solid intelligence and work ethic to assist farm workers and laborers as well as police and soldiers. Standardized in Germany in 1901, the German Shepherd Dog came to America in 1907 and flourished with the help of organizations like the German Shepherd Dog Club of America.
Thumbnail: Photography by smikeymikey1 / Shutterstock.
The post German Shepherd Dog 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.
The post Dog Walking Habits by State by Jackie Brown 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.
Virtual veterinary service OneVet recently surveyed over 2,100 U.S. dog owners and learned that although the national average amount of dog walks is 7.17 times a week, trends in dog walking habits vary from state to state.
The top five states for most and least walks per week are:
Most Walks per Week
Alabama 10.45
New York 10.14
Colorado 9.08
Florida 8.98
Illinois 8.90
Fewest Walks per Week
Oklahoma 3.67
Vermont 4.25
Ohio 4.71
Minnesota 4.75
Texas 4.78
The post Dog Walking Habits by State by Jackie Brown 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.
The post Pet Rescue Music Radio by Phillip Mlynar 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.
If you’ve found yourself hankering for some canine-centric radio broadcasting, check out Pet Rescue Music Radio.
Headquartered in Florida, a key part of the 24-hour, nonprofit station’s goal is to help put a stop to pet euthanasia by the end of this decade — an effort inspired by John F. Kennedy’s successful campaign to land a person on the moon before the 1960s were over.
When it comes to regular formatting, every hour the station releases Pet Welfare Capsules full of newsworthy safety tips, shelters can submit candidates for the Pet Of The Day spot to help secure forever homes, and Gerard Elliot hosts the engaging Pet Cafe segment during weekday afternoons (sometimes with a little help from his two rescues, Dax and Dixie). Oh, and you can also send in song dedications to be played on your own pooch’s birthday or adoption anniversary.
The post Pet Rescue Music Radio by Phillip Mlynar 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.
The post Holiday Foliage Safety Facts by Arden Moore 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.
Green and red are definitely the go-to colors during the holidays. But which holiday plants are safe to mingle with your dog? (For other pets, check ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.) Dr. Lee assesses these popular holiday decorations:
Poinsettias: Dr. Lee says, “They are not poisonous to dogs. The milky sap when you break open a leaf may cause a little bit of irritation if ingested, but it is not going to be a big deal.”
Mistletoe: “It can potentially be poisonous, but rarely results in any heart arrhythmias. If ingested, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Fortunately, mistletoe is usually hanging up high and out of reach of dogs. In my 25 years of practice, I’ve never seen a dog poisoned from it.”
Holly: “Holly is pointy and spiky, making it not very attractive to dogs or cats. It can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea if eaten, but it is not a plant dogs want to eat.”
Christmas cactus: “I have one in my house. It is a very soft succulent that is very beautiful. At best, it may cause vomiting and diarrhea if eaten by a dog, but it is not poisonous.”
Christmas tree: “Evergreens are prickly, so pets rarely try to eat or chew them. As for the water in a bowl at the bottom of a real tree, it is not a big deal. Just keep your Christmas tree well-hydrated and block your dog from drinking out of it by placing aluminum foil over the bowl to cover it.”
Pine needles: Can puncture or irritate your dog’s stomach if swallowed, so prevent your dog from nosing around the tree and lower temptation by not placing any wrapped food gifts under the tree for your dog to smell and try to eat.
However, more dangerous is the tinsel hanging on the tree. Dr. Lee strongly encourages you to decorate sans this shimmering decoration. “No tinsel should be on trees in dog and cat households because of the risk of them swallowing this linear foreign body.”
The post Holiday Foliage Safety Facts by Arden Moore 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.
The post DIY Holiday Fundraising by Lauren Katims 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.
This holiday season, I wanted to do something meaningful for my dogs. Sure, they seem to always love their presents, but how many Hanukkah sweaters are really appropriate for California weather? With a creative idea and a wide social media outreach, you can make a significant impact on the lives of our furry friends — many who don’t have a family to give them unnecessary sweaters. First, choose a charity or shelter to support and confirm your plans, making sure the organization is on board. Then it’s time to get the creative juices flowing. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Set up a pet photo shoot
Hire a professional photographer to host a photo shoot and donate a portion of the proceeds to your charity of choice. Adam Goldberg of AGoldPhoto Pet Photography says he and his wife, Mary, raised about $270,000 traveling around the country, taking portraits of dogs and partnering with local animal shelters.
Choose a location that’s dog friendly and free of charge, says Adam, who typically shoots in breweries. Disclose details about other dogs who will be in the shooting vicinity, so people can plan ahead for anxious pups.
“Book early,” advises Adam, so the prints will be ready by the holidays. “September or October is your sweet spot.”
And although it might be tempting to include Santa, make sure the dogs are comfortable around strangers, especially if Santa isn’t experienced with handling animals, Adam says.
Raise money and awareness for your cause through an apparel campaign. Bonfire, an online apparel fundraiser platform, provides design templates, custom design assistance, retail price suggestions and other tips for launching a seamless animal rescue campaign. The company even prints and ships the T-shirts to all your supporters and navigates the proceeds to your charity.
“You can get a campaign going as fast as in 5 minutes,” says David Adley, Bonfire director of outbound sales.
The more specific and timely your campaign, the more it will emotionally resonate with your audience, says David. For example, Old Friends Dog Sanctuary created a presidential campaign for one of its adoptable dogs, Mildred, during the 2016 election.
“It was a very topical event … and they created a great story around it and a cute, fun design,” David says.
Host a Secret Santa event
Organizing a Secret Santa event for the foster dogs in your community or for the adoptable dogs at a local shelter can help offset some costs for foster parents, while giving kids a fun and actionable way to raise money.
Most shelters will already have a wish list, says Tricia McAuley, fundraising coordinator for New Hope Dog Rescue in central Canada, which hosts a Secret Santa event for its foster dogs on its website.
Often, the most needed items aren’t toys.
“It’s a lot of fun picking out toys and food, but sometimes some of the biggest needs are invisible ones,” says Tricia, of the high costs to cover medical needs that need to be treated before a dog goes up for adoption. Other popular gifts are laundry detergent for fosterers caring for puppies and special diet dog food.
Creating a virtual Secret Santa group on Facebook can widen your outreach by sharing pictures, wish lists and encouraging people to participate if they aren’t local.
Help offset the cost for foster caretakers by organizing or participating in a Secret Santa event.
After writing this month’s column, I learned that some of the most powerful fundraisers can be started solo. I also learned how I could make an impact without being affiliated with a larger rescue group or shelter. Let us know your DIY holiday fundraising ideas or events you’ve done by emailing us at dogstermag@belvoir.com.
#PawsForThisCause
What else can YOU do?
Pick a rescue or other dog organization in your area and volunteer.
Spread awareness of the organization and its needs.
Volunteer your skill set. See how the organization needs help and if it’s something you can do.
The post DIY Holiday Fundraising by Lauren Katims 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.
The post Stuff the Stockings with Care by Arden Moore 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.
If dogs could write letters to Santa Paws, they would definitely ask for tasty treats and, maybe, a dose of calmness. The upcoming holiday season coupled with this ongoing pandemic may trig- ger anxiety, stress and fear in some once-mellow dogs.
“There are some pets who adjust and adapt, but there are others who are desperately trying to find ways to cope,” says Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist who operates the Florida Veterinary Behavior Service in West Palm Beach, Florida. “Stress will get worse in these pets if we ignore it.”
By definition, stress is the general term used to describe any physical, mental or emotional toll on a dog. Fear is a normal response to a real or perceived threat, and anxiety is the anticipation of a response.
Stress, fear and anxiety can trigger medical conditions in some dogs, by weakening the immune system and causing gastrointestinal upset.
Unaddressed, some rattled dogs may:
become major yappers
start piddling in the house
wolf down food at mealtime
vault off the sofa to charge the front door when a delivery arrives
stick to you like a shadow as you move from room to room
Or do all of the above and more.
Stuff those stockings
Of course, there are traditional dog treats, made even more fun when it’s a special seasonal treat. To add other items to the stocking that aren’t so traditional but really show you care, Santa Paws (aka Dogster) delivers a rundown of some healthy stocking stuffers to relieve holiday or just regular stress in your dog:
Toys with squeakers
These toys can tap your dog’s inner hunter. Encourage and praise your dog for ripping out the stuffing and extracting that coveted prize — the squeaker.
“Let your dog take out the squeaker — it is great fun for your dog,” Dr. Radosta says. “Keep a supply of these toys and bring out new ones and toss away the destroyed ones. Your dog needs a healthy outlet like this. Otherwise, he will dig in your backyard, bark out the window and destroy your furniture.”
Available in sprays, plug-ins, collars and even in travel sizes, products like Adaptil contain synthetic calming pheromones specifically for dogs.
“Pheromones affect the dog’s brain in a different way than other smells,” Dr. Radosta says. “They are more connected to the emotional sections of the brain. People can’t detect the smell of these products, but their dogs definitely can.”
One diffuser covers 600 to 700 square feet, so don’t go overboard on the number in your home. Help calm your dog by also spraying inside your car and his crate during road trips or drives to the veterinary clinic.
If your dog loves opening wrapped gifts, don’t take it personally if he doesn’t go gaga over this stocking stuffer.
“My dog, Maverick, doesn’t get excited when he opens this gift,” Dr. Radosta says. “It’s like giving your kid vitamins for Christmas.
Cuddly stuffed toys
These stocking stuffers deliver hug-ability and comfort for those dogs who like sitting on or resting against a soft, plush toy that may look like a doggie pal.
These food puzzles are the canine equivalent of you doing a crossword puzzle. They require your dog to focus on the food mission, distracting them from perceived stressful situations.
“Food is fun for a lot of dogs,” Dr. Radosta says. “Licki mats and snuffle mats can definitely encourage them to use their noses to hunt and forage for food. They keep dogs mentally entertained.”
Try rotating each type so your dog doesn’t get too ho-hum about the same food mat or puzzle.
Calming music
Music with predictable tempos like classical genre can be calming sounds to an anxious dog. Playing music or white noise devices may help block out outside aggravating noises to your dog, such as delivery trucks or leashed dogs walking by in front of your house.
Special clothing designed to calm dogs
Thundershirts and other clothing brands were created to help reduce feelings of separation anxiety in some dogs.
“The concept is that pressure reduces stresses as it does in babies who are swaddled,” Dr. Radosta says. “Just make sure that you apply these pet shirts per the directions, so you put it on correctly.
Comfy dog beds
Figure out your dog’s napping and snuggling styles before shopping. “My dog has a little arthritis in his elbows, so I bought an orthopedic bed for him in colors that match my home’s interior — gray and blue,” Dr. Radosta says. “I paid attention to how he sleeps — flat on his side spread out — so I could buy a bed that was long enough to match how he sleeps.”
New research is showing that the benefits of catnip for cats can also help some dogs calm down. Geralynn Cada-Ragan, a certified professional dog trainer, is part of the team at Meowijuana that recently added a lineup of items for dogs called Doggijuana that contain dogginip.
“If you put dogginip in a dog’s food, mix it with peanut butter on a licki mat or in a toy, you up the attraction factor and make these items more appealing to a dog,” she says. “This is another way to distract a dog and help him get that extra amount of calm.”
The popularity of people using cannabidiol (CBD) products to ease anxiety, pain and other issues is sparking use on their pets. CBD items come in treats, soft chews, sprays, tinctures and capsules for dogs, but these products are not regulated and do vary in quality.
“We do not know what dose is right for dogs for CBD, and we certainly do not know how safe CBD is,” Dr. Radosta says. “There may be promising research on the use of CBD for epilepsy and arthritis, but its use has not been proven yet for behavior issues.”
Zylkene is an over-the-counter food supplement that contains a calming natural milk protein. It is most effective when given before a stress-inducing event, like the arrival of holiday houseguests, because it does not cause drowsiness.
Paw CBD Peanut Butter for Dogs $69.99/600mg strength. cbdmd.com
Here’s a dandy gift idea you can’t wrap and stuff in a stocking — treat your dog to a workout every day.
“Dogs need a balance of physical and mental exercise,” Geralynn says. “Take your dog for a brisk walk or a run to help them get their energy out. Or, if the weather is bad, train them by having them go up and down the stairs or back and forth on a long hallway. A tired dog is a good dog.”
Focus on building your dog’s can-do confidence and unleash positive feedback when he masters a new trick or pops into a sit without hesitation.
“Keep in mind that our dogs are experts at smelling our body chemistry,” Geralynn adds. “Your level of stress can make your dog more stressed.”
Houseguests can also trigger unwanted emotions in some dogs. Days or weeks before guests arrive, train your dog to head for a sanctuary space, a safe, private spot. It can be a spare bedroom, walk-in closet, laundry room or other space away from the hustle and bustle.
“Your dog needs and deserves a place to go that feels safe and where he will not be bothered by visitors,” Dr. Radosta says. “Condition your dog now that this is his safe, calm place by tossing in treats and putting his favorite toys in that space.”
Based on his response, strive to increase the time he spends inside this closed space.
“You are giving your dog an agreement that this is a sanctuary that he can go to and will not be bothered by visitors,” she says. “Be patient and supportive, because one of the pillars of preventive behavioral medicine is independence training.”
You and your dog need and deserve a calming holiday season — one that is full of jolly and no folly.
The post Stuff the Stockings with Care by Arden Moore 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.
The post On the Twelfth Fail of Christmas by Ellyce Rothrock 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.
My German Shepherds, Fritz and Mina, love the holidays. While they’re very intuitive and sensitive, absorbing and reflecting the extra gaiety and joy of the season, they also have been known to land on Santa’s “naughty list.” Here are some of my dogs’ Christmas capers — and some shared by friends, neighbors and family — that might sound all too familiar.
Countdown to a vet visit
When my first German Shepherd, Greta, was an 18-month-old monster — er, I mean puppy — she discovered and ate 23 days’ worth of advent chocolate from two advent calendars. No dashing through the snow on a sleigh for her that night but rather a quick dash to the vet in the pouring rain.
Holiday attire optional
My childhood dogs, Smokie and Laddie, were a canine Abbott and Costello duo. The first year my family bought matching holiday sweaters sporting a very cute snowman was also the last. The morning after their first wear we discovered the last tear. Laddie had pulled Smokie’s sweater off of him and ripped it to shreds before doing the same to his own — the proof of the guilty party was in the poop.
Tree ornaments = treats
There’s a three-panel meme familiar to Shepherd owners: Panel one shows an adorable puppy, panel two shows a scary velociraptor and panel three shows a calm, adult dog. My girl Mina was the embodiment of this when she was a terrible teenager. During her first Christmas with us, she ate all the fabric ornaments off the bottom third of the Christmas tree.
Rainbow Hanukkah
During their first Hanukkah in our neighborhood, Emily and Joshua’s bouncing baby Boxer named Chad, who is now a subdued mature adult, ate six of nine menorah candles that all happened to be different colors. It all came out OK in the end, though.
Snowman’s gotta go
Girlfriend Mary’s Doberman Pinscher hated the blowup snowman in her front yard. Haaated it. Barked and growled at it constantly. After one fateful trip to the grocery store when she was unloading bags from her car and through the front door, Charger blasted past her, tackled the snowman and flat-out killed that sucker. Salvage was not an option.
Roast beast binge
Teddy, owned by my brother-in-law and sister-in-law, was a big, sweet pushover with a passion for grand theft food. One Christmas Eve, while guests were chatting in the dining room, she stealthily stole an entire huge roast beef from a serving platter in the kitchen, cuddled up to it underneath the coffee table and proceeded to consume it all.
Stealing Santa’s cookies
My Aunt Marlene’s terrier, Sam, was grumpy. He just was. Even after eating an entire plate of holiday cookies meant for Santa. But this furry grinch’s plan to foil Christmas failed … it still came, of course.
Potty party foul
My friend Melissa loves to tell the tale about how her pup Tampa Bay pooped on her mother’s white carpet in front of the hors d’ oeuvres. Grandma wasn’t run over by a reindeer, but she sure was bowled over by this party foul.
All gifts were for me!
You knew this one was coming. How many dogs have done this?! We all know one. My brother’s dog, Ted the Bernese Mountain Dog, just couldn’t wait for Christmas morning the year he came to live with my older sibling. Ted promptly ripped to shreds every scrap of wrapping paper adorning at least a dozen packages that had just been placed under the Christmas tree at approximately 10 p.m.
But I wanted to shepherd the sheep
Finn, another friend’s Australian Shepherd, wanted to get up close and personal to the cast of characters, human and animal, in his family’s nativity scene, and herd them all — right off the living room shelf and straight into his mouth. Sadly, not one survived, as each piece was carefully chewed beyond recognition.
Lights looked like candy
I can understand a dog’s attraction to illuminated Christmas or Hanukkah lights. They’re bright, sparkly and mesmerizing. So attractive, in fact, that they must be delicious. Enter Hank, my cousin’s Irish Setter, who was not known for his smarts. My cousin takes her sweet time decorating two trees in her house, and sometimes stuff that hasn’t found its place on the trees is left out for the next day. One Christmas, Hank must have been feeling bored and hungry, because he ate or destroyed most of a roll of unplugged white lights.
No-elf zone
I’m no fan of the Elf on the Shelf phenomenon, and neither is Jasper, a friend’s Great Dane. To Jasper, this elf is nothing more than a creepy interloper who has no place in his mom’s home. Sometime after my friend carefully strategized and arranged the elf for the first time for her kids to discover the next morning and went to bed, Jasper gingerly took the offending elf from an intricate display and beheaded him. He didn’t consume any part of it … just separated the elf’s head from its body and left both pieces outside my friend’s bedroom door to let her know in no uncertain terms what he thought of this “thing.”
Do you have a holiday fail story about your dog? Please let us know at dogstermag@belvoir.com.
The post On the Twelfth Fail of Christmas by Ellyce Rothrock 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.
The post Dug Up at Dogster: December 2021 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
You are going to want jingle all the way to these dog December 2021 dog events and holidays. December is the perfect time to take a break from the holiday chaos and spend some fun time with Fido. Don’t see your dog event on the list? Email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will include your dog event.
Check out this annual seasonal adoption program through weekly live cams from 10am to 5 pm. Info at sfspca.org/holiday-windows. Or, visit Macy’s through January 2 to see the adorable adoptable dogs and cat videos on the main floor plus in the windows. You will also see SF SPCA animal-assisted therapy animals too!
Home 4 the Holiday rescue organizations throughout Southern California and New York will be gifted bags of pet food for their orphan pets thanks to the generosity of Blue Buffalo.
Get in on the fun and inspiring annual 3-month adoption campaign that encourages people to choose pet adoption when getting a new family. More information and live pets adopted counter at animalcenter.org/home-4-the-holidays.
Join in for this evening of music and fun benefitting the AKC Canine Health foundation, advancing the health of all dogs through funding scientific research to prevent, treat and cure canine disease. Takes place at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, FL, at 7 p.m. More at information click here.
It’s back. Get out those pet costumes to show of your pet’s holiday spirits to the purrs and wags of others at this furrtastic annual event in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego. Pet Parade Starts 1pm and the Pups in the Pub Party on Island Ave continues the fun from 2 pm to 5pm.Event details and registration at gaslamp.org.
The post Dug Up at Dogster: December 2021 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Melissa L. Kauffman 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.
The post Go Green this Holiday by Arden Moore 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.
As the end-of-the-year holidays approach, you may be inspired to create lots of edible goodies from your kitchen, as your loyal dog watches intently. No need to make your dog green with envy. Why not fortify him by treating him to some healthy green foods?
Not all green-colored foods are safe for your canine chum, so that’s why Dogster reached out to two leading veterinarians to identify safe greens and dangerous ones.
Stepping up to the (food) plate with answers are Dr. Justine Lee of Twin Cities, Minnesota, the country’s only board-certified veterinary specialist in both toxicology and emergency critical care medicine. Also offering advice is Dr. Lindsey Bullen, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who practices at the Blue Pearl Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Cary, North Carolina.
Both experts are on a mission to ensure your dog spends the holidays happily at your home — and not inside a veterinary emergency clinic.
“I definitely see more dogs coming to our ER over the holidays,” says Dr. Lee, who is also chief executive officer of VETgirl and hosts the ER Vet show each week on Pet Life Radio.
She also points out that in the top toxins of 2020 report released by the Animal Poison Control Center, human foods unsafe for dogs ranked third, only behind over-the-counter medications and human prescription medications.
Good greens
This list of dog-safe green foods gets the healthy green light because these foods are loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. You’ll find these in dog foods or you can feed a small amount as treat:
Green beans
Spinach
Kale
Celery
Broccoli
Cucumber
Seaweed
Spirulina
Another perk of dishing up is that they are low in calories and help dogs feel full and not pack on the pounds during the holidays.
Some dogs enjoy munching on raw, cleaned, green veggies making this safe list, especially green beans. If your dog takes a pass, Dr. Bullen recommends that you try steaming theses greens and allowing to cool before adding them as toppers to your dog’s meal.
If possible, purchase organically grown vegetables to ensure no pesticides or chemicals were added during the growing process.
As much as you may enjoy butter, olive oil and spices added to your greens, serve them plain to your dog to avoid any issues, like upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea.
What human green foods should never be given to dogs?
Green grapes. In fact, all hues of grapes and raisins. These sugar-packed fruits can cause acute kidney issues if ingested by dogs. Additionally, grapes can cause choking and may block a dog’s airway, causing him to stop breathing and collapse.
Here are a couple of green foods that are not toxic, but are certainly not 100% safe for dogs:
Avocados. Dr. Lee clarifies that avocados are not poisonous to dogs, but are deadly to birds and livestock due to a fungicidal called persin. Dogs seem to be more resistant to persin than birds and livestock.
“If your dog eats a whole bowl of guacamole, he might have an upset stomach,” Dr. Lee says. “The bigger danger is the pit that can get stuck in the stomach and intestines and definitely put a dog in danger.”
Dr. Bullen adds, “Avocados have wonderful nutritional properties and are sources of good fat. But my concern is the slippery pit. I err on the side of caution and do not feed avocados to my dog, Heidi.”
Raw asparagus. A dog may incur mild gastrointestinal distress if he eats a lot of these green sprigs. Another negative: Much of the nutrients are lost when you cook asparagus. And don’t forget: Anyone or any dog who eats asparagus produces urine with a pungent odor.
How much safe greens should you give your dog at the holidays or any time of the year?
“To play it totally safe, make sure it is less than 10% of the dog’s diet so it reduces the risk of any gastrointestinal distress,” Dr. Bullen says.
Dr. Lee’s parting advice: Pre-program your cellphone with the phone numbers for your local veterinary clinic, the nearest veterinary emergency hospital and the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline (888-426-4435 and aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control).
“In a pet emergency, minutes count,” she says. “Always call ahead, so that the vet team can be ready when you arrive with your dog.”
Put a little “green” in your shopping cart:
Zuke’s Superfood Blend with Great Greens; $7.49. | zukes.com or chewy.com
The post Go Green this Holiday by Arden Moore 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.
The post Festive Fido Gift Tags by Annie Butler Shirreffs 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.
Looking for a fun way to add some canine charm to your gifts this year? Try these DIY doggie-themed gift tags. They’re easy to make, and they can be as plain or elaborate as you like — just let your creativity run wild!
What you’ll need:
Plain gift tags
Decorative papers
Scissors
Glue stick
Black permanent marker (optional)
Stickers and other embellishments
Ribbon
Directions:
Use your glue stick to apply glue to the back of the tag, then press it onto a piece of decorative paper.
Once it’s glued and dried, cut out the tag.
Cut out a dog shape from the decorative paper (I found several templates online), then glue it onto the tag.
I outlined the dog shapes using a black marker to give them a little more definition.
Apply stickers and any other embellishments you like.
Attach ribbon through the hole at the top of the tag, and you’re done!
The post Festive Fido Gift Tags by Annie Butler Shirreffs 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.
Plain gift tags