Traveling

We are packing for a weekend camping trip to Silver Lake. When traveling with your dogs make sure you bring the necessities for your pet. Bring your own water. Changing the water can upset your dog and cause a loose stool. Make sure you pack food, toys, crates, and bags for picking up after your pet. My dogs love going camping because every morning we go for a walk to the lake for a swim. Its important to make sure your dog gets the needed exercise during vacations as well. Plenty of exercise with help them cope with the stress of being in a strange place and will help them rest while they are left alone.

Michael Vick

Michael Vick is the hot topic these days and whether he ought to be permitted to return and play in the NFL. Some are saying the abuse of dogs is a heinous crime and he should not be allowed back in the NFL. Others say anyone convicted of a felony should not be permitted to return to being a professional athlete. There is the argument that he has served his time and paid his debt to society, so he should be able to return to his job playing professional football. The bright side of this story, of the 49 dogs evaluated by animal behaviorist, only 1 was deemed too dangersous to rehabilitate. Surf the web and you can read countless stories how these dogs have found loving homes. It goes to show that specific breed laws are not what we need but responsible owner laws.

House Breaking

I get a lot of calls asking for help house breaking a puppy. First of all you must use a crate. I introduce the crate to dogs by putting treats in the kennel. Let the pup go in and out, use a kong stuffed with treats for short periods of time in the kennel and feed the pup in the kennel. The pup should view the crate in a positive way so it should not be used for punishment. Next I keep the pup on the leash with me in the house. No free time running loose in the house until the pup understands going potty is done outdoors. If your pup attempts to go in the house say "no" pick him/her up and take your pup outdoors. Take your pup outside frequently saying "take a break" when they go potty. They need to go out immediatly after naps and after they eat. Monitor their water intake. Once they go praise your pup. I also use a solution of vinegar and water to clean up any messes inside the home. If you are consistant and patient, house training your new pup should only take a few weeks.