Author: rgoessel

No one thinks that the day will come where we lose our beloved pets, but sometimes that day comes sooner than we expected, and we are forced to cope with the loss of a pet. In this blog, we will discuss some strategies to help you manage to grieve a pet.

Express your feelings

It’s okay to cry, feel lost or sad after you lose a pet companion. Taking the time to express your feelings in a safe and understanding environment can help you to cope with your loss.

Talk to someone you trust

Not everyone will understand what you are feeling. People who have never had the companionship of a dog can struggle to identify with the strong sense of loss that comes with grieving a dog. It’s important that you talk to someone who can understand and extend empathy to you in your time of need.

Join a support group

Technology has made finding a support group easier than ever. Whether you prefer a Facebook support group or a faith-based support or something in between, you can easily find a community of supportive individuals. Try not to isolate yourself or think you are the only one who can understand your pain. A support group can help you through this tough time

Memorize your dog

Print the photos from your phone and grab a friend who loved your dog and make a book of memories. The process of memorization can help you to remember all of the good times that you shared with your dog.

Look for the good

If your dog was suffering from an illness, know that now she is no longer in pain. While it’s hard to find the good in such a tough situation it important to remember that quality of life is more important than length.

Never stop loving your dog

Even though your dog is no longer physically here, you can continue to love and care for your friend. Carry your dog in your heart and tell stories of the good time to help keep his legacy alive.

Puppies need friends, too, and they love to play! Playdates help them establish new dog friends and grow socially. No matter what breed of dog you have, when they socialize with other canines, it can make them happier animals. As a pet owner, finding ways for your puppy to make friends is essential to your pet’s health. Here are a few ideas on how you can make sure you get your puppy the social pet network he needs.

1. Dog Parks 

Dog parks are in almost every neighborhood. In these parks are dogs of every breed and size, and this can be the right place for your dog to meet a friend. It may be overwhelming for your dog the first time you visit, so limit your time at the dog park. Beware of aggressive dogs so your pet can have a positive experience.

2. A Walk in The Park 

Early morning walks in the park can be exhilarating for you and your dog.  Many other pet owners set aside time to walk their dogs in the park, and this is a perfect time to meet other dogs and dog owners. Notice the dogs your pet gravitates to and help him make friends by socializing with the other pet’s owner. Exchange information and set up a play date for your furry friend.

3. Neighborhood Websites 

Neighborhood websites are the perfect place to make friends with other pet owners. You may have the same schedules or same breed of dog, or you both may be in need of a doggie play date. Whether you have the same breed pet as your neighbor or not, this could be an opportunity for many fun doggie play dates to come.

Owning two puppies can be a joyful experience. Whether they are big or small, a Great Dane, and a poodle, they can be companions for life. Four-legged friends enjoy hanging out together, especially when you are not around. They take care of each other, cuddle together, enjoy their walks, and show their owners twice as much love. If you are considering adding two dogs to complete your family, here are a few tips to make this adventure a smooth one.

1. Prepare Your Home 

Keep in mind each dog needs its own toys, food bowls, dog pillows, leashes, and love. Be prepared to provide these individual items for each of your puppies to create a harmonious home. Once you have all of the pet supplies, you need to be sure to set up a separate area for each of your pets to enjoy their meals and sleep. A special blanket for each of your pets may be soothing and give your puppy the feeling they are extra special.

2. Transportation for Two

Your vehicle should have enough space to transport your two furry friends safely. Use crates when necessary or reserve a spot in the back where your dogs can move comfortably around your car without obstructing your view. Don’t forget to have those water bowls and leashes handy in case you and your puppies decide to go on a long hike.

3. Relax and Show Double Love

Pets are easy and just want the same unconditional love they give you. Loving two pets is not double work; it’s double fun. When you watch your two pets bonding, it will light up your life and warm your heart. You’ll look forward to coming home to their love and doggie kisses and spending cozy nights cuddled with them both. Once you have two doggies, you will wonder how you ever lived your life without them.

As the season changes and the weather gets colder, make sure you and your pet are prepared. Winter may bring about a few challenges for your pet, but nothing you can’t handle. Knowing what to do so your pet is well taken care of in these colder months is easy and could help make a life for your furry friend something he will look forward to. Here are a few tips you can follow to make sure your pet has a cozy and warm winter.

1. Limit Your Dog Grooming Appointments 

    Cancel your next grooming appointment!  The wintertime is a time to let your dog’s fur grow. We understand that dogs are more flattering when they are well-groomed, however, their fur is what will keep them insulated in this cold weather. A dog with a big fluffy coat will be able to take on the outdoors and not worry about getting cold.

 2. Booties and Sweaters 

     Invest in puppy booties and dog sweaters. They are worth their weight in gold! Pet booties are not just trendy and cute, and they are functional. Your dog’s toes won’t have to touch the ice, or cold concrete or experience any winter weather pain. Dog sweaters can give your dog an extra sense of comfort. Remember, extreme temperatures are tough on a dog’s paws, and cold weather can be a culprit. It may take a few more moments to put

 3. Short Walks 

  Early morning walks can get chilly, so shorten your walk to make sure your dog is not in the cold for too long. Your pet may get chillier a lot faster than you since more of their skin is exposed. By limiting the distance of your regular walks for those cold mornings, you can protect your dog from the harsh elements winter can bring 

Keeping your pet safe shows them just how much you love them. Your best friend trust and depend on you to keep him safe and protected. There are many ways to make sure your pet is safe. Whether on a walk or inside the comforts of their home and yard or just in a safe environment. By using some safety measures to care for your puppy, you both will feel more at ease. Here are a few safety tips you can use to keep your pet safe.

1. Safe Walks 

Not every neighborhood is dog-friendly. Choose the right park or trail or dog park where the environment is not dangerous for your dog. Save the long walks for the bright daylight hours. Pay close attention when you are walking your dog by observing other animals and people in the vicinity. Never walk your dog without a collar and always have an extra leash in case your leash breaks, and don’t forget to clean up after your pet. Having your pet chipped at the local pet store is a good idea in case they are lost or stolen.

2. Keep Your Pet Healthy

 Your puppy depends on you to make sure their shots are up to date. Follow the recommendations of your vet. Feed your puppy the right type of food and amount for their weight. Make sure your pet gets enough water and nutrition, including healthy dog treats from the local pet stores. Pets need proper nourishment, just like their owners.   

3. Pet-Proof Your Home 

Puppies love to explore. Take a close look around your home from a pet’s point of view. Clean up any areas that could be dangerous to your pet. Pesticides and hazardous chemicals should never be kept in the reach of your pet.

Follow these tips to keep your pet safe so you can enjoy years of memories with your furry friend.

It’s time for holiday festivities once again. It’s an exciting time to get together with our families and friends. If your family includes a puppy, make sure they are included in your holiday traditions, from the songs to the holiday meal to pictures and gift-giving. This can be a memorable time for all of your family and furry friends. Here are some tips on how to make sure your puppy and family have a Merry good time they will not soon forget.

1. Gifts your puppy will love 

When you’re hanging up those stocking stuffers, don’t forget to buy a stocking for your puppy. Puppies love gifts too. While everyone is opening up their presents on that beautiful Christmas morning, your puppy will be excited to open his. This is the perfect time to make sure your puppy gets their stocking and any other toys or goodies you may have for them. Don’t worry; there is no need to wrap their toys since your puppy will be ready to enjoy them.

2. A family meal for all. 

The holiday meal can be an exciting and much anticipated time for all, and perhaps everyone has worked hard to put together this special meal. Before everyone takes their place at the table, make sure your puppy has a special spot and meal preparation. Be sure only to include foods that you know your puppy can digest safely. With a special dog-friendly meal, your puppy won’t be susceptible to dangerous bones or foods that may cause illness..

3. Family and Puppy Photos 

When it’s time to take those family photos, tie that big beautiful red bow on your puppy so they can be as festive as everyone else in the picture. Be sure to groom or brush and make them feel comfortable next to the family he loves. These photos will remind you of your cherished holidays with your family and your puppy.

This is a very easy concept to teach a dog. It’s just a matter of consistency on the owner’s part.

Step #1: Give the command “go to your bed.”

If your dog actually does go to her bed, make sure to give her treats and praise. Most likely, she’ll need you to guide her. Once there, place her in a down position and give her treats and praise. Then release her. “Good girl!” Repeat that five times or so and quit.

At this point, the dog doesn’t stay on the bed for more than a second or so. You’re just encouraging her to go to her bed and giving her rewards for it. Remember to have some sort of word to release your dog from her bed such as “free!” or “ok!

Step #2: Begin increasing the distance.

Increase the difficulty very gradually so the dog is successful. At this point, you could tell your dog to go to her bed when she is about six feet away from it. Once she is successful from that distance, work from 10 feet away and then across the room.

Step #3: Increase the time.

You’ll most likely be practicing this step along with step two. Basically, you want to teach your dog that “go to your bed” means “go to your bed and stay there until I release you.”

Ideally your dog would then stay on her bed for up to a half-hour or more while you’re doing something else but you need to gradually work up to that point.

If your dog knows the command “stay” then it’s OK to use that to encourage your dog to stay. Personally, I don’t like to use “go to your bed” and “stay” because “go to your bed” implies the dog should stay.

At first, you’ll only expect your dog to remain on her bed for five seconds while you’re sitting right next to her. Give her treats and praise. Then release her with – “free!”

If you have an older dog, you may not want to leave them in a kennel when you’re away from home. Instead, you might want to look at some of your options for elderly dog care. Here’s how you can make sure your senior dog receives the level of care that it needs.

1.       Search For Care Providers That Specialize In Senior Dog Care

While some dog kennels just provide basic care, there are providers that offer more specialized services. If you find a provider that specifically offers care for elder dogs, you can assume that they’ll be able to properly care for your pet. Take the time to see if there are options like this near you. You may also want to call dog kennels and ask them about their experience with elderly dogs.

2.       Look At In-Home Care Services

Your dog may not be comfortable staying in a kennel, especially if you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time. Thankfully, there are care providers that will take care of your dog in your own home. Your dog will be able to stay in a comfortable environment while still getting care from a professional.

3.       Read Plenty Of Reviews

You should always be careful when you’re leaving your pet in someone else’s care, but you should be especially cautious if your dog is older. Take the time to read through a number of reviews so that you can see what people have to say about various local care providers. Try to find some of the best options in your area.

Focus on finding the best options for elderly dog care. Senior dogs are more prone to health problems, which means they need more from a care provider. Your pet is an important part of your life, and you should make sure your animal is properly cared for when you aren’t there.

While some dogs are content to sit on your lap and look cute, working breeds have a different agenda. These are the dogs that are bred to hunt, herd, retrieve, and detect. They were born with an urge to work, and when they’re bored they tend to be mischievous and destructive. Working dogs like Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds, Border Collies, Newfoundlands, and all the others thrive on farms and ranches where there’s never a shortage of things to do. But what about the dogs that live in the suburbs or city? Their families have 9-5 jobs; they’re not farmers or ranchers.  So what’s an average dog to do? If your active dog is getting bored of life not on the farm, try these simple jobs for working breeds that they can do almost anywhere.

1. Scent Games

Your dog doesn’t need to be a professionally trained scent detection dog to put his powerful sniffer to good use. K9 Nose Work is a dog sport based on the same training those drug-busting and ivory-finding working dogs undergo. But instead of sniffing out illegal objects, you teach your dog to recognize and detect the smell of birch, anise, and clove. There are competitions where dogs earn titles and awards, but you and your pup can enjoy the game right in your home, in the yard, or on the trail. It works your dog’s mind and body while giving him a satisfying job.

2. Find it Games

In addition to scent, dogs use all their senses to track down items and even people. Think of search and rescue dogs but without all the peril. Teaching the “find” or “go get” cue will be your first step. Once your dog understands the basis of the game, you can teach him to find and fetch all kinds of useful objects. Teach him to bring you your shoes before a walk or carry over his own leash. You can even teach him to seek out specific people and pets. Retrieving breeds love this game because it’s based on their natural instinct to find things and bring them back.

3 Trick Training

Once your dog has mastered basic obedience, it’s time to move on to trick training. It’s not one of the most useful jobs for working breed dogs, but learning and performing tricks gives a dog a purpose and sense of accomplishment. The best part is, tricks are fun for both ends of the leash. There’s no end to the list of potential tricks you can teach your dog. Start with the easy stuff, like roll over and spin. With these types of tricks, you can lead your dog into it by luring him with a treat. From there, try teaching him to open and close the kitchen cabinets, weave through your legs, or jump through a hoop. Once he has a nice repertoire of impressive tricks, put them all together to make a routine that’ll impress all your friends and family.

The easiest way to know how to keep dogs warm in the winter is to learn when it’s too cold for dogs to go outside. This means knowing what the temperature outside is with the wind chill factor AND knowing whether other serious conditions are expected.

When it’s 20˚ F outside, it’s too cold for any dog to be walking. Above 20˚ F it may still be too cold to walk if conditions are icy, very windy, or if your dog is very young, old, or has a compromised immune system. If it is safe to go out, make sure to keep walks short and keep your pup wrapped up warm with their feet protected.

Invest in a Winter Jacket or Sweater for Your Dog

Not all dogs will benefit from a sweater or jacket, but many dogs can. Hairless breeds should always wear some type of winter dog clothing in cold climates. Short-haired and small breeds should also always wear a sweater or jacket to help keep them insulated during winter.

You should also always consider getting a jacket or sweater for your elderly dog, sick dog, a young puppy, or immune-compromised dog. We’ve published some great articles that can help you find the right jacket or sweater for your pet:

· Top 10 Best Winter Dog Clothes

· Top 5 Best Dog Coats for Winter

· Top 5 Best Dog Sweaters for Winter

Protect Your Dog’s Paws

While this isn’t really a tip about how to keep dogs warm in the winter, it is a tip on keeping them safe. When winter arrives it often means chemicals being spread on sidewalks to prevent icing. These chemicals can absorb into your dog’s paws and end up being ingested if your dog licks their paws when they get home.

Even if chemicals aren’t spread to prevent icing, sharp ice pieces or objects are hidden under snow can be dangerous to your dog’s paws. You can protect your dog’s feet by purchasing hard sole booties for walking or purchasing protective paw wax to protect against chemicals. If you rely on paw wax, it’s important to clean your dog’s paws when you get back home every time you go walking.

DON’T Make Your Dog Sleep Outdoors

A dog should never be made to sleep outdoors. As social animals, dogs want to be close to their family and the isolation of being an “outside dog” is torturous to them. It is particularly important to have dogs sleep indoors during winter months to keep them protected against the cold. Even with outdoor shelter and housing, it’s possible for dogs to succumb to the cold or become ill. The best advice on how to keep dogs warm in the winter is to keep them out of the cold and weather as much as possible, meaning invite them inside. As an alternative, you can always provide your cold pet with a dog house with a heater.

Limit Outdoor Playtime

Some dogs just love to play in the snow, but you should monitor and limit outdoor playtime during the winter. Just like human children, dogs can get caught up in playing and forget to monitor their body temperature.

It’s up to you to monitor your pup and make sure that they aren’t spending too much time out in the cold. Ideally, your dog should spend just 30 minutes or less playing outdoors at a time, according to veterinarians. Of course, if temperatures are dangerously low, they shouldn’t be outdoors at all!