PUPPY WORLD: April 2022

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Your Guide to Fantastic Fur

The post Your Guide to Fantastic Fur by Wendy Newell 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.

Your dog’s coat type tells you how much to brush, comb or bathe it. Her lifestyle — couch potato or a canine athlete — dictates the rest. No matter your dog’s fur type, we’ve got tips that help with all dogs. We gathered up some professional groomers and got them to spill their secrets to help make your dog the envy of the dog park.

Brushing/Combing

There are a variety of different coat types: short, medium or long, also single or double coat, and the coat can be wiry, curly, rough, silky, smooth, corded or hairless. And don’t think a hairless breed makes grooming easier, as it often requires more baths. Getting the right grooming tools and knowing the right way to use them on your dog’s coat type is key. Here are some tips that can get you brushing in the right direction.

Catherine Juarez, owner of Bubbles & Barks dog grooming salon in Passaic, New Jersey, says that fur-type dogs (like German Shepherd Dogs, Labs and Huskies) “will need a curry brush, undercoat rake, slicker brush and comb.” While hair types (Poodles, Yorkies, Shih Tzu, etc.) will need “a slicker brush or pin brush, and a comb.”
Don’t just brush or comb your dog’s top hair. Groomer Kimberly Rines, owner of The Grooming Shack in Duluth, Minnesota, says, “Comb your dog in layers, so you are getting all the way to the skin.”
When brushing or combing, “watch out for friction zones — underarms, groin, behind the ears and under the collar — as skin tends to be more sensitive and knots are more common,” advises Stephanie Zikmann, founder of The Holistic Grooming Academy in Scotland, United Kingdom.
Always dry and brush your dog out after getting wet from a bath, swimming or the weather,” says Brandie Gitzendanner, owner of The Paw Spa Elite in Oklahoma City and Mustang, Oklahoma. “Allowing your dog to air dry without combing and drying can lead to matting.”
“Comb!” says Elly Linam, owner of Elly Scissorhands Dog Grooming LLC in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. “After you brush your dog’s coat, make sure to comb it to catch any small mats that are hiding. Greyhound-style combs work great for this.”

Need more help? There is an easy-to-understand video on YouTube in which Andis Grooming Educator Diane Betelak walks you through it, titled Proper Brushing and Combing Techniques and created by professional grooming company Andis.

Bathing

How often you bathe your dog depends on her coat and on her lifestyle. Typically, a dog can be washed about once a month, but keep a close eye on her coat’s oil or dryness so you don’t offset her coat’s natural balance. Dogs with oily skin and hairless breeds need to be bathed more often. Beyond the basics, here are some bathing secrets from groomers.

“Use an exfoliating mitt! “says Stephanie Z. “This helps to lather up shampoo and clean a dirty coat efficiently. It is also a great way to carefully shampoo and rinse a dog’s face without getting any soapy residue in the eyes”
“Keep rinsing!” advises Stephanie Wilson of Wüf Pet Spa in Cincinnati, Ohio. “If you think you rinsed out all the shampoo and conditioner, rinse more. It’s crazy how easy it is to leave product in the coat.”
“Use conditioner,” Catherine says. “Conditioner helps to replenish the oils that have been stripped out by shampoo.”
“Drying the coat takes a few steps,” explains Liana Carver, a groomer at Roch & Gertrude Pet Spa in Pasadena, California. “First towel to soak up dripping water. A second towel is to dry the coat as much as possible. Comb out to make sure there are no tangles before moving to the dryer. If your pup is OK with it, comb while using the dryer.”

Looking for more advice? Check out Tips and Techniques for Bathing Your Dog by Dogster’s sister publication Whole Dog Journal at whole-dog-journal.com.

Shh! Other groomer secrets

It’s not all shampoo and brushing. Here are some other simple secrets you may not be in the know about.

“Don’t leave collars and harnesses on 24/7,” says Stephanie W. “If you need to, rolled leather collars or silk are less likely to cause friction matting.”
Brandie reminds us to grab the cornstarch. “It is good for loosening mats that aren’t too tight. Just sprinkle and work it into the matted area and then brush out.”
And dry completely! “Many pet parents will towel dry their dogs and let their dogs air dry,” says Nadia Lee, owner of 4 Legged Tribe in Lomita, California. “Damp plus wet coat will lead to a ‘wet dog smell,’ and pet owners will not be able to execute a salon styled ‘blow out’ look.”

Single- and double-coated tips

A dog with a double coat has two coats: an outer coat and an inner coat. Elly explains, “A double-coated dog’s coats act as insulation in both hot and cold weather. It keeps them cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.”

The outer coat is longer than the inner coat, doesn’t shed as much as the inner coat, and it’s the coat you see that shows the dog’s color. The inner coat is close to the skin and soft, which you feel by parting your dog’s fur. Many popular dog breeds have double coats: Labs, German Shepherd Dogs, Border Collies and Golden Retrievers. Brush up on these expert tips for dogs with single and double coats.

A double-coated dog with fur should never be clipped, says Liana. “Doing so can ruin the guard coat — outer layer coat. You risk it growing back patchy, change in texture or it may not grow back at all.”
Brandie tells us that the second coat does tend to release in cycles. “This undercoat should be blown out with a force dryer or brushed out to prevent an impacted coat. Impacted coats can hold in moisture that sits on the skin causing irritation, hot spots and infection.”
Single coated dogs do not have undercoat. “This coat tends to mat easier and requires more brushing to maintain proper coat health,” says Stephanie W. Popular dog breeds with single coats are Dachshunds, Greyhounds, Poodles and Chihuahuas.

Hair vs. fur

When it comes to dog hair versus dog fur, what is the difference? Our groomers solve this mystery for us.

“Dog hair is like human hair,” Elly explains. “It keeps growing and must be cut. Dog fur does not continually grow and will shed out at the end of its growth cycle.”

Kimberly adds, “Dogs with hair don’t shed like a pup with fur. They require regular grooming to manage the length and health of the coat, while dogs with fur tend to shed more and have periods of time when they ‘blow’ their coat. This means all the dead fur from the season comes out and, depending on the breed, it can be quite a bit!”

Owner + groomer = fab healthy fur

Grooming is an essential part of dogs’ overall health. “Throughout my years of experience talking to pet parents, they all want the same thing for their dogs. They want to be able to help better their dogs’ lives,” says Nadia. “Groomers are here to help achieve this goal with pet parents.”

In Between Professional Grooming

My pup enjoys wiggling around in a well dug-up dirt patch, which means he is always filthy. His BFF and groomer is Elaine Moyers, who splits her time between Louise’s Dog and Cat Grooming in La Habra, California, and her studio in Yucaipa, California. She shares some simple tips of what I can be doing in between visits.

Brush and comb your pup thoroughly.
A bath, dry shampoo or even a wipe down with a wet towel as needed if dirty, as well as conditioning coat spray can help keep your pup smelling good.
Check and clean ears using ear cleaner, pet wipes or a cotton ball with alcohol. Only clean what you can see. If there are sores/redness, excess debris or a bad smell, check in with your vet.
Use plain water on a cloth or paper towel to clean debris from around the eyes.
File down pointed nails in between clipping with a nail file or Dremel.
Use positive reinforcement. Anything you can do to help get your pup comfortable with being touched, the less stressful her professional grooming day will be.

**Firm Slicker Brush**, $9. **Pin Brush**, $9. **Flexible Rake Comb**, $10. All available at andis.com

**WashBar Original Soap for Dogs** by *WashBar Natural Pet Care*; $12.99. us.washbar.com

**Premier Spray** — Coat moisturizing and condition pet spray by *Eqyss*; Starts at $15.49. eqyss.com

**The In-Between Bath Bundle** by *Rowan*; $50. rowanfordogs.com

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Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Meet Davvy Jones

The post Meet Davvy Jones 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.

The NHL’s Seattle Kraken has welcomed its first-ever team pup to the ice — a 4-month-old Husky mix named Davy Jones.

Davy started out as a homeless pup in Texas, then found his way to Dog Gone Seattle, a foster-based rescue organization in the Seattle area. He was adopted by Chris Scarbrough, lead developer of the Climate Pledge Arena (Kraken’s home arena) in Seattle and the Seattle Kraken app.

When looking for a team pup, Kraken had been set on adopting from a rescue or shelter. “We knew whichever pup was chosen would need to be good with people and especially children,” Chris says.

As the official team dog, Davy will be a community ambassador, appearing at events with the public and at some of the team’s home matches. Davy is also going to be trained as a licensed therapy dog, with the help of Canidae, the official Pet Food Nutrition Sponsor of Davy Jones and the Seattle Kraken, as well as the team dogs of five other NHL teams. Once he finishes training, the team hopes to use Davy at events that would benefit from a therapy dog, like hospital visits.

For now, Davy enjoys playing with his new teammates and stealing the show on the ice at home games. After his official debut, he’s already made quite a few friends both on the team and in the stands.

“He seems to love the attention,” Chris says. Unsurprisingly, he also loves watching hockey. “He actually follows the puck!”

When not on the job, Davy spends the day playing with the Scarbrough’s other dog, Doug.

The team hopes that, above all else, Davy brings people a moment of happiness. “When he’s old enough, he’ll be trained as a therapy dog, where he can bring a sense of calmness and warmth to someone who needs it,” Chris says. “He definitely has the ability to do it.”

Follow Davy’s adventures on Twitter @DavyJonesDoggo.

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Friday, April 22, 2022

Doberman Pinscher

The post Doberman Pinscher 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.

Quick Facts

Weight: 66 – 88 pounds (29.94 – 39.92 kg)
Height: 24 – 28 inches (60.96 – 71.12 cm)

The Look of a Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers have a lean, powerful and distinguished frame. They have a poised, alert, ready-to-movie stance and a lively, intelligent expression. Dobermans have a deep, broad chest, a strong neck and a medium-sized, square and muscular body. Their heads are wedge-shaped with alert, dark eyes and ears that are either cropped or pointing up. They have docked tails (usually) and straight limbs. Dobermans can come in black, black & tan, bluish gray, fawn, red and white. Overall, they have a courageous, determined and proud look.

Traits

Bold and assertive
Protective
Tough and fearless
Intense
Easily trained
Devoted pal

Ideal Human Companion

Singles
Active, sporty types
Experienced dog handlers
A-type personalities

What They Are Like to Live With

In spite of their fearsome reputation, Doberman Pinschers are loving, affectionate intelligent dogs. They are also known to be conscientious and sensitive, crafty and attentive, which would explain their success as police and military dogs.

More than anything, these are people-oriented dogs, craving attention, positive reinforcement and quality time with the family. When properly trained and socialized, they can be sweet and easygoing with children.

Highly intelligent, Dobermans have a range of skills that include search & rescue, agility, and therapy work. When given a task and lots of mental stimulation, Doberman Pinschers will stay obedient and happy.

Dobermans, while loving to their families, can be very protective and suspicious of strangers. If they think their handler is being threatened, they will do anything to keep them out of harm’s way.

Things You Should Know

Don’t be afraid of your Doberman. They need a firm owner, and everyone in the house should know how to discipline them (in a very positive way, of course). They can get pushy if they have their way for too long. If you’re not prepared to work with your Doberman, you might try a more manageable breed.

Dobermans will be fine in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and attention. They are probably not the best pets to have around small children.

A healthy Doberman can live as long as 12 years. Common health problems include heart disease, hip dysplasia and bloat. Protect them from cold weather climates—their short coats make them sensitive to the chill.

Doberman Pinscher History

Doberman Pinschers (pinscher means “biter” in German) were developed in the 19th century by a German tax collector named Louis Doberman. He bred these fearsome dogs to protect him on his daily rounds. Taking advantage of his part-time job at an animal shelter, he used a mix of dogs—probably Rottweilers, Black and Tan Terriers and German Pinschers—to create the classic Doberman. In 1921, the Doberman Pinscher Club of America was founded, helping to promote the breed in the U.S.

Read more about Doberman Pinschers on Dogster.com:

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Thursday, April 21, 2022

Poop Problems

The post Poop Problems by Mary Schwager 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.

With the utmost certainty, I assure you if the neighbors in our condo building ever listened to the conversations in our home, they were horrified and moved on. That’s because most of the time, my partner and I talk about dog poop.

Our Labradors, Daisy and Jackson, have pooping issues. It makes city living in our backyard-less Boston neighborhood a challenge. When one of us returns from a stroll with the dogs, the post-walk interrogation and bickering begins: “Did Daisy eat poop? Why didn’t you watch her more closely? Did Jackson poop? You know he hates pooping in that park!”

Picky Poopers

For Jackson, the wind, barometric pressure and temperature need to be just right for him to poop. He also requires the perfect bush. Once he finds this treasured shrub, he backs his rear end right into it and defecates. Sometimes his deposits fall onto different branches, adorning them like Christmas tree ornaments. When I pick it up with a baggie, I can’t jiggle the limbs or poop falls on my arm.

Why are some dogs such picky poopers?

Author Mary Schwager’s dog, Jackson, prefers doing his business on bushes, while Daisy enjoys eating poop. ©Mary Schwager and Peter Morea

“Aren’t we all a little particular about where we, well, go to the bathroom? Dogs are no different,” says board-certified veterinary behaviorist Lisa Radosta from Florida Veterinary Behavior Service.

Canines have different reasons for being choosy. “Some dogs were taught by their human parents, sometimes inadvertently, to eliminate in one area or on one surface,” Dr. Radosta says. “If a dog lives in a house with a yard and always eliminates on grass, it may be a challenge to get that dog to eliminate on concrete or rock.”

Dr. Radosta suspects that Jackson is fearful when he’s outside. “Dogs who are scared are constantly hypervigilant, scanning the environment,” she says. “It is tough to be vulnerable and settle down for a good poop when you →
are always looking for the monsters behind the next house. He may back up to the bush because that seems safer.”

Interestingly, before we adopted Jackson, he was a stray in a rural area and likely had to be watchful to stay alive.

For some pups, being choosy may be a turf battle. “Dogs can use urine and feces to mark territory,” says board-certified applied animal behaviorist Megan Maxwell, PhD. “You might see a dog looking for an elevated spot to poop or one where the wind is likely to carry the scent.”

Poop Eating

While Jackson’s pooping is mysterious, Daisy suffers from a seasonal grossness disorder. In the winter, she gobbles down poopsicles, frozen dog waste irresponsible owners leave behind. Excrement eating — coprophagia — is downright horrifying to humans, but experts say it’s common.

“This is normal dog behavior,” Dr. Radosta says. “Mother dogs eat their pup’s feces to keep the den clean. Dogs may learn to eat feces through normal exploration. Dogs can certainly lack proper nutrition or have underlying systemic disease, which can also contribute.”

Dr. Radosta adds that feces containing undigested food may smell appetizing to dogs. My guess is Daisy, who eats nearly anything, likely thinks, “Oh, the aroma! I need to devour this quickly before my mom flips out!”

Does this look normal?

Cori Johnson definitely can’t participate in those social media games where people are asked to post the third photo in their phone because chances are hers is a pile of doggie doo.

The former nurse volunteers for an animal rescue and uses her medical skills to field fosters’ concerns. Cori’s phone is filled with poop pics and texts that say, “Does this look normal to you?”

“Some dogs come right out of shelters,” Cori says. “They haven’t always had the best nutrition or care. The pictures are revealing.”

Board-certified veterinary nutritionist Lindsey Bullen with VetScoop.com says her inbox is also flooded with feces photos, and she’s thrilled. “Poop is a window to the inner soul. It tells us a lot about the body.”

So, what is normal? “We want stool to be formed and have that log appearance,” Dr. Bullen says. “When you pick it up, it shouldn’t fall apart. It shouldn’t smear, but it shouldn’t be dried out.”

If a pup’s poop changes appearance, is stinkier than usual or turns a different color, that could signal a problem. If a dog goes more or less often, take note.

“You’re the expert when it comes to your pet,” Dr. Bullen explains. “You know what their poop used to look like. You know what it used to smell like. You know how easy or hard it was to pick up. Any changes could warrant investigation.”

Fecal Matters

Anything out of the norm is worth seeking medical advice.

“It is never wrong to call your vet. I want to emphasize the importance of finding a vet pet parents feel comfortable with to talk about poop or send pictures,” Dr. Bullen says.

Veterinarians can run tests to find the cause of a pooping problem. But don’t wait for a predicament; regular exams, fecal tests and heartworm prevention with a de-wormer are crucial to keeping dogs healthy.

Solving Problems: Behavior Challenges

What are solutions for dogs who dine on doo and peculiar poopers? If pooches with coprophagia have no underlying medical issues, scoop up backyard poop immediately, so there’s nothing to eat. And work on training.

“Teach the dog a leave-it cue,” Dr. Radosta says. “When you see your dog moving toward the poop, ask her to ‘Leave it,’ and when she comes back to you, reward her with a tasty treat every single time.”

Dr. Maxwell also suggests positive reinforcement for picky poopers like Jackson. “You could walk him in more open spaces, so he gradually gets used to relieving himself on grass,” she says. “Bring treats, and as soon as he finishes pooping on a flat surface, praise merrily and provide a treat.”

Veterinarians, behaviorists, and certified trainers are excellent resources for pet parents concerned — or even bickering — about their dog’s pooping habits.

If a pup’s poop changes appearance, is stinkier than usual or turns a different color, that could signal a problem. If a dog goes more or less often, take note, too.

Fecal Fluctuations

Poop problems can be caused by quite a variety of things, which is why dog lovers have to become poop police.

Causes include:

stress
stomach bugs
allergies
diet

It may be a sign of:

pancreatitis
parasites
poisoning
vitamin deficiencies
gastrointestinal disease
cancer

If a dog is straining or pooping less frequently, it might be:

constipation
blockage

Cleaning up poop is so much easier with today’s poop products. Here are just a few:

Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator $15.49; chewy.com

The Original Poop Bags: USDA Biobased Peanuts Leash Rolls and Peanuts Dispenser $4.99/60 bags and $4.99/ dispenser; poopbags.com. *part of the company’s You Buy, We Donate program, helping pet shelters, dog parks and animals in need.

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Monday, April 18, 2022

Eating for Good Skin & Coat

The post Eating for Good Skin & Coat 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.

Sure, your loving dog may sport a huge heart in terms of sweetness, but his skin reigns supreme size wise. The skin represents up to one-fourth of his total body weight — a fact that may drive home a greater need to pay attention to what you’re putting into your canine pal’s food bowl.

“Nutrition plays an important role in the health of the skin and other organs,” says Dr. Joseph Bartges, a professor of veterinary medicine and nutrition at the University of Georgia in Athens. “Often a sign of inadequate or improper nutrition is a change in the quality of the coat and skin. You may notice that it is now dry or flaky or oily or see bald spots because hair is not growing back.”

What goes in the bowl

“The food you select has everything to do with your dog’s skin and coat quality,” says Dr. Jean Hofve, a holistic veterinarian and author from Jamestown, Colorado. “Dogs need quality proteins that come from real meats, not meat by-products, as well as antioxidants that are also good for the skin because they are anti-inflammatory.”

There are many commercial dog diets available, and selecting quality ones to feed your dog can be daunting. Keep in mind that to satisfy recommendations set by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, quality commercial dog food meets these five standards:

Complete: It contains all required nutrients.
Balanced: All the nutrients are in proper proportions.
Palatable: It features a welcome taste that your dog will eat in sufficient amounts to keep his body at a healthy condition.
Digestible: All the ingredients can be absorbed into your dog’s body for use.
Safe: The ingredients are free from nutrient deficiencies, excesses or imbalances; are free from toxins; and are free from microbial contamination or spoilage.

“In general, a dog with naturally healthy skin can be expected to continue to do just fine on any nutritionally complete diet without any type of supplementation,” says Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian in Salida, Colorado, who consults on diet and nutrition for pets as a veterinary expert with JustAnswer.com. “A dog with a skin disease, however, may require supplements to optimize his skin health.”

Definitely consult your veterinarian to help select the appropriate supplements your dog may need based on his age, health condition and breed.

Our experts offer these tips to help your dog sport a healthy coat:

✤ Learn the doggie alphabet diet. Bolster your dog’s skin and overall health by making sure his chow or supplements contain adequate amounts of a pair of omega-3 fatty acids chemically known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Nutritious sources of these omega-3 fatty acids include eggs, salmon, fish oils, flaxseeds and chia seeds.

✤ Dish up omega-6 fatty acids in your dog’s food. Dogs need omega-6 fatty acids to keep skin hydrated and serve as a protective barrier, but they are not able to produce them on their own. Dogs lacking enough omega-6 fatty acids in their diet can be at risk for a variety of skin issues as well as a weakened immune system. Healthy sources of omega-6 fatty acids can be found in chicken as well as sunflower, soybean and canola oils.

✤ Don’t feed into hype on the internet. Certain oils may score popularity points, but they might not be the best choice for your dog.

Regarding the use of coconut oil as a supplement for your dog, Dr. Myers says, “Although it is popular, there is no scientific evidence to back up any health benefit claims for dogs.” She cautions that feeding your dog excessive amounts of coconut oil can trigger diarrhea and pack on extra pounds.

✤ Top your dog’s dry food on occasion with skin-fortifying yummies. They include blueberries (loaded with antioxidants); carrots for a tasty vitamin A boost; sardines in water for a lip-drooling source of omega-3 fatty acids; and green beans, packed with fiber, calcium and vitamins A, B, C and K.

Good nutrition

By being proactive in watching for any changes in your dog’s weight, skin quality or appetite, you can play a vital role in his overall health and possibly address conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism or kidney disease in their early stages.

And, by selecting quality ingredients, you may help your dog avoid reactions to food allergies and their accompanying signs, such as persistent scratching, skin bumps, bald spots or a dull-looking coat as well as chronic vomiting or diarrhea.

“Nutrition is hard!” Dr. Myers says. “It is a complicated subject, so you definitely need professional guidance from your veterinarian to avoid wasting money on supplements that your dog may not need or that may actually do more harm than good.”

Skin & Coat Diets

Concerned about your dog’s skin and coat? They make diets specifically targeting them today. Here are a few that are available.

Purina ONE +Plus, Skin & Coat Formula; $46.26/16.5-lb bag. petcarerx.com
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Coat; $38.99/11-lb bag. chewy.com
Dogswell Skin & Coat Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe; $39.99/12-lb bag. chewy.com

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Friday, April 15, 2022

Herbal Shampoo & Hot-Spot Treatments

The post Herbal Shampoo & Hot-Spot Treatments 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.

Dogs get skin issues, just like we do, depending on the weather, allergens in the air and grass, or various bug bites. Signs of discomfort can be persistent scratching or itching, biting or licking their paws, or picking at a particularly irritated or infected spot, called a hot spot.

Wouldn’t it be convenient to whip up your own customized batch of calming shampoo or rinse in less than 30 minutes, depending on your dog’s ailments?

It may sound intimidating, but making a shampoo or rinse at home is doable for beginning DIYers. And more good news: Most of the ingredients may already be in your pantry.

If you want a completely toxin-free wash, steer clear of ingredient lists with a base of dish soap or baby soap, says Rita Hogan, a clinical canine herbalist based in Olympia, Washington. Those soaps are typically petroleum based and can strip your dog’s coat of natural oils.

Rita says to look for ingredient lists that have apple cider vinegar (which adjusts the pH level for dogs), baking soda, castile soap, aloe vera gel and glycerin.

Adding herbs to your water base (as if you were steeping tea), although not necessary, allows you to customize the shampoo for your dog’s skin.

Helpful herbs for skin issues

Most dried herbs can be found on Amazon and/or your health food store. Rita recommends the following:

Chickweed for itching
Plantain or calendula for general troubled skin
Marshmallow root for dry skin
Neem leaf for fleas
Chamomile for dandruff, dry skin or sensitivity
Rosemary for cool skin and circulation issues or alopecia.

Basic Rinse

Here, Rita walks us through how to make one of her basic rinses.

Ingredients and supplies:

1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel
8 ounces of water (option to add
2 tablespoons of dried herbs)
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
2 ounces of unscented castile soap,
such as Dr. Bronner’s
1 teaspoon of jojoba oil. Other oils to consider using are hemp, neem or an herbal-infused oil like calendula
Shampoo bottle or pint-sized mason jar bowl for mixing, a funnel and a spoon

Directions:

If using herbs, mix the 2 tablespoons of dried herbs in 8 ounces of almost boiling water and steep covered for 20 to 30 minutes. Let cool, but keep covered while doing so.
Combine herbal infusion with the castile soap, jojoba oil (or other oil of choice), apple cider vinegar and aloe vera gel. Mix well.
Pour into a half-pint or pint-sized jar or shampoo bottle.
Bath time! Store in the refrigerator for one to three weeks, and shake well before using.

Hot spot herbal treatment spray

Boil a ¼ teaspoon of Himalayan pink salt into 8 ounces of water.
Add 2 tablespoons of dried chickweed and plantain herbs, and let it steep for about 20 minutes.
Strain the herbs.
Put your rinse into a spray bottle and mist it on the hot spot two to three times a day.

Bentonite clay mix

If the hot spot has pus, Rita recommends using a bentonite clay mix, which has been shown to draw the pus out of the hot spot and help it heal, before using the herbal spray.

Directions:

Put a teaspoon of bentonite clay in a spray bottle with about 8 ounces of water.
Shake well and stir with a plastic or wooden spoon (no metal).
Let it sit overnight. The clay will sink to the bottom.
Mist it on the hot spot.

No time to DIY

Love the idea but not the doing? Check out these products:

Natural Dog Company Skin Soother. Starts at $14.95; naturaldogcompany.com

Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Hot Spot Spray. $23.99; vetericyn.com

Silver Honey Hot Spot & Wound Care Ointment. $26.19; absorbine.com

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Thursday, April 14, 2022

NBA Champion Kevin Love and His Dog, Vestry, Celebrate Milk-Bone’s New Treat Flavor

The post NBA Champion Kevin Love and His Dog, Vestry, Celebrate Milk-Bone’s New Treat Flavor by Jason Mailliard 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.

Dogster.com recently had the opportunity to sit down with Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers to discuss his love for his dog, Vestry, and their new partnership with Milk-Bone.

On April 4, 2022, Milk-Bone launched its newest flavor: Birthday Dog Treat. This treat is all about celebrating our four-legged family members. To help celebrate this milestone, Milk-Bone tapped NBA Champion and All-NBA player Kevin Love and his beloved Vizsla, Vestry.

Vestry came into Kevin and his fiancé Kay’s lives three years ago, and they have been celebrating her ever since, which makes the partnership with Milk-Bone the paw-fect fit. From birthdays (and half birthdays) to gotcha days and everything in between, these treats are a must-have.

“My Vizsla, Vestry, is my No.1 companion, whether she’s traveling to games alongside me or taking walks together when I am home,” Kevin says. “I love celebrating her as much as I can, even on her half birthday, which is in April. With Vestry being a big Milk-Bone fan, I’m excited to partner with the brand and help pet parents across the country celebrate their dogs on their special day.”

Kevin grew up surrounded by dogs and understands the bond that’s created between pet parent and pup. This bond with Vestry has been really special. Kevin calls her the “quintessential velcro dog” who travels with him on road trips and helps ease any anxiety while traveling. Kevin also notes that Vestry is “a once-in-a-lifetime dog; she is that special.”

Vestry is a natural pointer, runner and high jumper, and Kevin and Kay reward her athletic accomplishments with Milk-Bone Birthday Treats. “She loves these treats, and she lets us know when she is ready for more,” Kevin says.

As loyal readers of Dogster.com, you’ll agree that all dogs have a superpower. We couldn’t end the interview without asking Kevin about Vestry’s. “Her superpower is the love that she gives back to us, she really is the total package of a dog,” Kevin says.

Unmatched love deserves the best. And Kevin reciprocates that love in many ways — one of which is by spoiling her with Milk-Bone Birthday Treats!

Follow Vestry’s adventures on Instagram @vestryvizsla.

And be sure to participate in the sweepstakes and sign-up for the Birthday Club, to make dog birthdays, half birthdays or gotcha days extra special at https://www.milkbone.com/dog-birthdays/sweepstakes.

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Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Ways to Manage Mange

The post Ways to Manage Mange by Dr. Catherine Ashe 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.

We’ve all heard the term “mangy mutt.” But do you know what mange actually is and how it can affect your dog? Mange is a general term for two specific skin diseases of dogs caused by mites. These mites cause hair loss, sometimes intense itching and secondary skin infections. Only two types affect dogs — demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange.

✤ Demodectic mange, sometimes called “red mange,” is caused by the Demodex mite, a small, cigar-shaped parasite with eight legs that lives in the hair follicles. All dogs have a few of these mites living on their skin, as they are passed from mother to offspring (and are not contagious between dogs or infectious to humans). Most of the time, these commensal mites don’t cause any trouble; however, in young puppies with immature immune systems, illness can occur. It is significantly worsened if the puppy is malnourished and/or has other internal parasites such as roundworms or hookworms. Similarly, elderly dogs or dogs with compromised immune systems can develop mange.

Demodectic mange can be localized, causing focal spots of hair loss that are not itchy, or become generalized and severe, leading to complete hair loss, scabbing and secondary skin infections called pyoderma. This can be bacterial or fungal or both.

✤ Sarcoptic mange (called scabies), on the other hand, does spread rapidly between dogs and can also infect humans. Sarcoptes is a short, stubby mite with eight legs. It causes intense itching as the mite burrows into the skin. This leads to significant discomfort, scratching, skin trauma, hair loss and pyoderma (a bacterial skin infection).

Get it checked

Have your dog evaluated by your veterinarian if you notice any skin issues. Hair loss and scabbing are very common manifestations of many illnesses, including flea infestation, food allergies, atopy, and even liver disease or cancer. As a result, when having your dog checked by your veterinarian, expect a basic skin diagnostic workup initially including a skin scrape, cytology evaluation and discussion of your pet’s history and possible exposure to parasites and allergens.

Diagnosis of mange mites is generally straightforward. If you have a new puppy with hair loss or a dog with intense itching and no obvious cause, your veterinarian will perform a skin scraping as part of a dermatology workup. This involves taking a dulled scalpel blade and gently scraping along the edges of a lesion. A little blood is expected, but this is not a painful or invasive procedure. The hair and skin on the blade are then transferred to a slide and examined under a microscope. Demodex mites are generally easy to find. Sarcoptes mites, as they tend to burrow deeply, can be more challenging.

There is an “unofficial” test for sarcoptic mange called the pinnal-pedal response. If you scratch behind a dog’s ear, and they respond as if this is intensely itchy by thumping their back leg, it is considered consistent with scabies infection. Studies have actually been conducted to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of this maneuver and found it to be highly effective!

If your dog exhibits signs consistent with mange, and a skin scrape doesn’t show mites, your veterinarian will likely treat anyway, as treatment is now safe and effective.

New-and-improved treatments

Until recently, treating involved aggressive, repeated “dips” using foul-smelling chemicals like lime sulfur. Dogs were bathed in this several times to kill the mites. The invention of modern-day parasiticides, particularly those in the isoxazoline class, have made this treatment mostly obsolete. These are oral and topical medications that prevent fleas and ticks and also treat mite infestations. They are safe, effective and readily available.

If your dog has generalized demodecosis leading to bacterial or fungal skin infections, then you will also need to treat those with topical and possibly oral antibiotics and antifungals, and soothing baths, as well as fatty acid supplementation.

As always, when in doubt, check in with your veterinarian!

Signs & Symptoms

itchy skin/scratching
hair loss
scabbing/crusty skin
pyoderma (bacterial skin infection)
rash/redness

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How to Keep Your Dog From Licking Their Wounds

Although wound licking in dogs can help remove some debris it’s important to note that it can cause serious adverse reactions, especially with large wounds.

It’s important to keep an eye on your dog, and do your best to ensure they leave their wound alone during the healing process. Easier said than done — I know, but there are some tips that make it a bit easier to manage. Here’s how to keep your dog from licking their wounds.

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Own Wounds?

Before we get into how to stop your dog from licking their wounds let’s take a quick look at why they’re doing it to begin with. Understanding the why can help make the recovery process a little easier, since you’ll know what to look for and understand why your dog is so insistent when it comes to getting to that wound.

Wound licking is an instinctive response in dogs, and it’s one that’s found in many other animals. Their mouth is the only tool they have at their disposal to try to clean up wounds. They can’t go to the medicine cabinet and grab some disinfectant, so they use the only thing they’ve got — their mouth. It’s the only way they know how to help themselves heal.

Why licking? Well, saliva contains some beneficial materials that can help promote healing. It contains a protein called tissue factor (also called platelet tissue factor) that can help promote blood clotting. Dog saliva also contains Opiorphin, which has a pain reducing effect.

The belief that wound licking can have some curative effects has been around for ages, and in the past we utilized dogs to help heal some of our own wounds. The Egyptians believed that being licked by a dog, especially on an open wound, helped aid in recovery and even cure some illnesses. In ancient Greece, dogs at the shrine of Aesculapius (a hero and god of medicine) were trained to lick patients. And in Armenian culture Aralezes (dog-like creatures or spirits) descended from the sky to lick the wounds of the fallen so they could resurrect.

We don’t use those methods anymore thanks to modern medicine, but our dogs still do. And while licking minor wounds may not cause much of a problem for your dog, there are serious risks when it comes to larger, deeper wounds.

The Dangers of Wound Licking

Although some of the bacteria in dog saliva can be beneficial to healing, licking a wound can also cause adverse reactions and delay the healing process. Harmful pathogens can get inside a wound as a result of licking, and that risk is higher when dealing with a big wound.

When it comes to surgical wounds licking can break down your dog’s stitches, causing their wound to re-open. That increases their risk for infection, including secondary infections and tissue destruction.

How to Keep Your Dog From Licking Their Wounds

When it comes to keeping your for from licking their wounds you have a few different options, from the traditional E-collar to using distraction techniques. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each of these methods.

Elizabethan Collar

The Elizabethan collar is commonly referred to as the cone of shame or e-collar (not to be confused with an electric training collar) is a protective medical device that prevents animals from licking or scratching wounds. It’s a flexible plastic cone that’s attached to your dog’s collar or neck, and the cone itself acts as a barrier.

If your dog is going to be having surgery chances are your veterinarian’s office will be sending them home with an e-collar. Don’t be afraid to ask your vet any questions you have about the collar, including how often they have to wear it and whether it’s OK to remove during feeding. And remember, follow their instructions when it comes to how long it needs to stay on for to ensure a safe healing period for your dog.

E-collars come in a lot of different sizes, so if you’re purchasing one yourself it’s important to get a good fit. Make sure the cone itself is short enough to allow your dog to eat and drink (but not so short that they can access their wound with their mouth), and that the collar part can be tightened enough that your won’t be able to wiggle out of it.

Pros: The most reliable method for keeping your dog, especially a determined dog, from getting to their wound. For that reason an e-collar is the way to go when your dog is going to be left alone for any period of time.

Cons: Can be stressful for dogs to get used to, and makes navigating around the house and eating and drinking a bit challenging.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust to Wearing an E-Collar

When it comes to helping your dog adjust to wearing an e-collar I’m not going to lie — it’s not fun, and it’s something I always feel guilty about. They are restrictive, but that’s why they’re the safest option when it comes to preventing your dog from licking their wounds. If you feel guilty about your dog having to wear an e-collar remember that it’s in their best interest, and that it’s only temporary. It prevents them from inadvertently delaying the healing process by re-opening up their wound or causing infection.

Since the cone itself is wider than their head and because it restricts their peripheral vision it’s not uncommon for dogs to bump into things as they adjust to wearing it. Ensure that your dog has a wide enough path to comfortably navigate around the house. Stairs and doorways can be particularly tricky, so remember to take it slow and encourage them as they adjust to navigating around.

You’ll also need to help your dog adjust to eating or drinking. If your dog’s bowls are against a wall you’ll want to move them so your dog’s cone won’t be hitting the wall each time they go to eat or drink. Depending on the bowl you use your dog’s e-collar may rub against the edges when they try to eat. You can try using a bowl that’s more shallow, or you can try adjusting the height of it to see if that helps. If that doesn’t work you can remove their e-collar when it’s time for dinner. Just remember to put it back on when they’re done.

Dogs generally get used to wearing an e-collar after a day or two, but if your dog is really upset or nervous you may want to consider one of the other options below, such as an inflatable collar that’s a little less intrusive.

Inflatable or Soft E-collars

Inflatable E-Collar For Dogs

If you’re not a fan of traditional e-collars you can opt for a softer, inflatable option. They mimic the shape of traditional e-collars, but they’re not quite as restrictive.

Keep in mind that inflatable collars aren’t big enough to keep your dog from licking wounds that are easy to reach on their paws or legs. They might be a good option when you’re at home with your dog and can keep an eye on them, but make sure it’s going to be restrictive enough to work before leaving your dog alone with one.

Pros: Depending on how flexible your dog is, and where their wound is, inflatable options can be just as reliable as a plastic e-collar when it comes to preventing your dog from messing with it’s wound.

Cons: Although they’re more comfortable than a plastic e-collar, they’re probably not going to be able to restrict your dog from getting to an ‘easy to reach’ incision site such as one on their lower leg for most dogs.

T-Shirt

A good old t-shirt can be a good option when it comes to keeping your dog from licking it’s wounds if they have an incision on their belly or side. As with an inflatable e-collar though just how well it works depends on your dog, and whether you’re going to be around to supervise them.

I would not recommend using a t-shirt if your dog is going to be left alone while you go to work since a t-shirt is easy for them to get around. However, for evening cuddles or or walks when you’re with your dog they can be a great option that’s not quite as uncomfortable as a plastic e-collar.

The one downside to a t-shirt is that unlike an e-collar it will have to be changed every couple of days, especially if it gets wet. But if you’re going to be home with your dog as they recover and can keep an eye on them to make sure they leave the shirt alone, it can be a good, less restrictive option.

Pros: Much less restrictive than a e-collar, and good for periods of time when they’re supervised.

Cons: Not nearly as restrictive as e-collars, not recommended for use when your dog is home alone.

Distraction Techniques When You’re Around

A nice little dog life hack for preventing your dog from licking their wounds is to give them something mentally stimulating to do as they recover, such as a stuffed kong.

Kongs are especially nice for surgery recovery because unlike some treat dispensing toys they don’t require your dog to get up and move around. So if your dog is recovering from surgery you don’t have to worry about them playing too rough and possibly irritating the incision site. And if you freeze some treats inside it’ll keep your dog busy for even longer.

Pros: A really nice way to give your dog something mentally stimulating to do as they recover.

Cons: On it’s own, a toy or distraction method isn’t reliable enough to ensure they’ll leave their wounds alone. Only use under supervision.

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The post How to Keep Your Dog From Licking Their Wounds appeared first on Puppy Leaks.

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Monday, April 11, 2022

Mealtime Etiquette Helpful Hints

The post Mealtime Etiquette Helpful Hints by Victoria Stilwell 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 Chihuahua, Jasmine, has developed a strange ritual at mealtimes. She is not a morning eater and prefers to have her main meal in the late afternoon, while my other dog, Bella, would love it if she could eat all day. Jasmine eats on an ottoman next to her favorite chair because she generally feels more comfortable being elevated on a piece of furniture than eating on the ground.

This has nothing to do with her wanting to exert dominance over Bella; she just feels happier being higher up. The world can be overwhelming when you’re that small; being elevated makes her feel safe, and she can look out the window and watch the world go by from the comfort of her own chair.

During mealtimes, Jasmine will wait to eat her food until Bella has finished eating hers. I feed them both separately — Jasmine on her ottoman in the family room and Bella in the utility room just off the kitchen, because I’m a great believer that however well dogs in multi-dog households get on with each other, they should have space at mealtimes. Bella appreciates eating by herself, but Jasmine will not touch her food until Bella has finished and walked over to the ottoman.

I should also mention that Jasmine is a resource guarder. She has a tendency to guard locations, toys and food bowls, and I do think this tendency plays a part in the ritual. Waiting for Bella to walk over makes Jasmine’s food even more valuable and worth defending. On the other hand, she might not feel safe enough to eat her food until she can actually keep an eye on Bella as she eats. I tested this theory by putting Bella in another room entirely, because my utility room leads into the family room, but Jasmine would still wait for her to come back and stand near the ottoman before she touched her food.

While eating is an enjoyable social activity for people, it can cause tension between dogs.

Helpful eating hints

Dogs develop rituals around many things, including food, because rituals are comforting and predictable, particularly in multi-dog households.

All dogs need to feel safe when eating, so I encourage my clients to either stay in the room while their dogs eat or feed them in separate locations.
The same goes for feeling safe during chew time. Schedule a time and place when dogs can chew on a toy or bully stick to allow each dog to decompress and enjoy some time alone. This helps to minimize squabbles and ensures every dog feels safe doing an enriching activity.
If your dog is eating too fast, use a slow-feeding bowl or ditch the bowl and feed a few meals through interactive toys instead. You can also try hiding food in your house or backyard and send your dog off to hunt for her meal. (I do not recommend doing this if you have a multi-dog household unless all dogs can search separately). Encouraging your dog to forage for food means she gets valuable enrichment and takes in food more slowly.
Pay attention to when you feed your dog. Even though Jasmine prefers to eat once a day with a small snack in the evening, most dogs do better being fed twice a day so they do not get so hungry between meals. Feeding on a consistent schedule also helps to regulate toilet breaks and prevent accidents.
And finally, let eating dogs eat! I never stick my hand in a dog’s bowl when they are eating and do not even get close to their eating area unless I am working with puppies and dogs to prevent resource guarding issues. Possession is nine tenths of the law for most social animals, and just as you would hate it if your dog stuck his snout into your plate, the same is true for your dog if you were to put your hand in his.

While eating is an enjoyable social activity for people, it can cause tension between dogs. Take time to understand your dog’s habits and make a plan to encourage healthy eating. Food helps build bonds between dogs and people, but it can also cause issues. Even though Jasmine trusts me completely, I understand that food makes her a little tense, so I take steps to ensure she is comfortable at mealtimes by managing her environment and taking both my dogs’ different needs into account.

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Friday, April 8, 2022

Walk This Way

The post Walk This Way 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.

What if you had cancer and, while going through treatment, couldn’t walk or care for your dog? Or if you were physically unable to take a 30-minute romp with your dog? That’s why Dogster wags it up for Corinne Conover, her dog Sonny and her organization Paw It Forward NY because they step in to lend a helping paw.

Corinne and her rescue dog Sonny set out to become a therapy dog for cancer patients and those who are disabled or seniors. Unfortunately, that didn’t work out when Sonny failed his audition twice. But, of course, when one doggie door closes, another one opens, and Corinne decided they could help these same people by walking their dogs, spending quality time and caring for their dogs when they can’t.

“We pick up the dog at the owner’s home, take him for nice walks and then bring him back to the owner,” Corinne explains.

To get this service, go to pawitforwardny.com and sign up. “We get back to them within 24 hours and set up a meet-and-greet session and schedule on a weekly basis,” Corinne says. “It’s worked great every time. We give the dog an hour walk and the owner an hour if she so chooses.”

The 501(c)(3)nonprofit has been around for a little over three years, covering the following areas in Queens, New York: Forest Hills, Kew Gardens Hills, Rego Park, Flushing and Astoria. Plus, it covers Long Island City and the West Village, along with Gilda’s Club, a community organization for cancer patients in NYC .

The service is free, but people can donate to say thank you on the website, in honor of Michelle Helen Conover, Corinne’s sister who passed of leukemia when they were children.

Corinne says there is a reason the word dog is God spelled backwards. “If it wasn’t for my Sonny, we would never have been inspired to create Paw It Forward NY. He is my light and shining star. I meet so many beautiful volunteers, who are now friends, and we have much fun together. We even have a kid-friendly program with parents, kids and me going out for long walks. It’s so much fun and the kids love it.”

Corinne hopes to get even more volunteers and members in the Queens community and go global with a chapter in London and places like Texas and Chicago. Her mission, along with Sonny, is “spreading our joy in helping people and animals.” To learn more, go to pawitforwardny.com.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2022

The Canine Co-Captains of Sea Tow

The post The Canine Co-Captains of Sea Tow by Rachel Phelps 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.

It is a dark and eerie night on the water, and you’re stranded in a boat that’s having engine problems. You wonder, “Who will come to my rescue and tow me back to town?” Have no fear — the dogs of Sea Tow are here! These pups and their professionally trained human co-captains aid thousands of boaters in need each year.

Sea Tow is a membership service that provides on-water assistance up and down the Atlantic and Gulf Coast, Southern California and select inland lakes. Sea Tow has a 24/7 dispatch and can get to the boat in trouble in one hour or less and provide services such as fuel deliveries, jump starts, ungroundings, prop disentanglements and even boat repairs right on the water.

No matter what body of water you are boating on, there is a Sea Tow location with a dog co-captain close by. For example, in Massachusetts, there is a fox-red Labrador Retriever named Cooper at Sea Tow Cape and Islands. At Sea Tow in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, there is a yellow Lab named Tuna. Then at the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, location, there is a 9-month-old Golden Retriever named Skipper. These dogs are ready to help! In fact, for the boaters, these canines are more recognizable than the Sea Tow employees.

Another dog who might be part of your rescue crew is Birdie, from Sea Tow Manasquan, which covers central New Jersey’s Atlantic coastline. This 3-year-old Weimaraner takes her job seriously. While her owner and captain Tim Sanzone is tending to the needs of the boat, Birdie is always up to the task of being kind, being friendly by wagging her tail and providing a sense of comfort to the stranded boaters.

According to Captain Sanzone, the general manager of Sea Tow Manasquan, Birdie is “a fearless companion and one of the friendliest dogs I have ever had. She loves other dogs and children and never leaves my side. She is filled with energy and life and never misses the opportunity to go on a boat ride.”

When Birdie isn’t busy helping stranded boaters, she enjoys taking a swim, hanging out with her mom Stacey (Tim’s wife) and eating her favorite food, watermelon.

Every boater hopes they’ll never have to experience maritime problems and need to call for help. If the unthinkable does happen, hopefully when help arrives one of these adorable Sea Tow dogs will be on board to save the day!

Follow Birdie’s adventures on Facebook @SeaTowManasquan.

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Dug Up with Dogster: April 2022 Dog Events and Holidays

The post Dug Up with Dogster: April 2022 Dog Events and 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.

Finally, the weather is warming up and so are our April 2022 dog events and holidays. Grab your dog, his leash and some training treats and get out and have some fun with these great Spring dog events. Don’t see your dog event on the list? Email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will include your dog event.

Monthly and Daily April 2022 Holidays

Heartworm Awareness Month

Adopt a Greyhound Month

Pet First-Aid Awareness Month

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

April 8, 2022: Dog Fighting Awareness Day

April 10, 2022: Hug Your Dog Day

April 11, 2022: National Pet Day

April 21, 2022: Bulldogs are Beautiful Day

April 23, 2022: Lost Dog Awareness Day

April 27, 2022: International Guide Dog Day

ALL-MONTH-LONG April 2022 DOG EVENTS

Through July 19, 2022: Dogs of War and Peace Exhibit

Check it out at The AKC Museum of the Dog in New York, NY. Tickets and exhibit information at museumofthedog.org

April 1-3, 2022: AKC 2022 National Agility Championship

Held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL. Don’t worry if you can’t make it to Florida, you can watch it here.

April 2, 2022: 2nd Annual New Braunfels PetFest event

Takes place from 10 a.m. to 5p.m. with contests for smallest and tallest dog, owner & pet look-a-like and fastest peanut butter licker. Held at the Columbus Club in New Braunfels, TX.

April 5-6, 2022: Austin Vet Conference

For veterinary professionals, this conference features educational opportunities, hands-on labs and workshops, plus exhibitors. Held in Austin, TX. Register here.

April 9, 2022: Photos with the Easter Bunny at Your Local PetSmart

PetSmart stores across the country are offering this photo opportunity on Saturday, April 9, and pet parents can book their photo appointment here. Booking time with the Easter Bunny is just the first step (book your appointment here!) Booking time with the Easter Bunny is just the first step; getting the pawwfect photo is next. To achieve the look, PetSmart training expert Jodie Havens recommends four tricks to get the best photo moment with a pet: Dress them up for the holiday to create a photo moment you’ll always remember, such as in an Easter Bunny ears headband, a pastel-colored bowtie, an Easter chick dog hoodie or even a full bunny costume. Use a squeaker toy, hold a treat, call their name or make sounds you know they’ll respond to throughout the photo-taking process. Get them to play with you. Pair the sight of the camera with treats and give them the goodies after a few photo frames. Keep up the treats after the photo session concludes.

April 22-24, 2022: European Dog Show Paris

Takes place at the Parc des Expositions de Villepinte in Villepinte, outside of Paris, France. Check out details here.

April 23-24, 2022: AKC Meet the Breeds

AKC’s Meet the Breeds is going on the road and will appear at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, FL. Get tickets here.

Want to see what dog holidays are coming up in 2022? Check out Dogster’s dog holiday list.

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Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Dug Up with Dogster: April 2022 Dog Events and Holidays

Monthly and Daily April 2022 Holidays

Heartworm Awareness Month

Adopt a Greyhound Month

Pet First-Aid Awareness Month

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

April 8, 2022: Dog Fighting Awareness Day

April 10, 2022: Hug Your Dog Day

April 11, 2022: National Pet Day

April 21, 2022: Bulldogs are Beautiful Day

April 23, 2022: Lost Dog Awareness Day

April 27, 2022: International Guide Dog Day

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