Avoiding Danger in Your Yard

Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2007

Tanner and Xena Share the Float

While I Act as Lifeguard

Today's post is another of my soapbox rantings: dog safety. Our yards can be a mecca for many dangers to our pets. Here are a few you might take particular notice of:

1. Know your plant names and which are toxic. Check out my post at Organic Journey Online, Dogs and Plants: What is Safe for Them?
2. Keep your fence in good repair to avoid escapes and injury.
3. Clear out heavy underbrush to diminish the chances of snakes or rodents making homes there.
4. Remove thorny vines, plants and bushes.
5. Be aware of wildlife and your dog's risk. For instance, Oliver, my Papillon, is a likely target of the Barn Owl that lives in a nearby wooded area. My veterinarian has suggested I do not use our Invisible Fence for him, but always take him outside on a leash or with close supervision. Likewise, the local bear population is quite active right now, so Tanner and Xena, my Retrievers, must be supervised when outside after dark.
6. Water and its inherent danger can come in many forms.  Check out my post on water safety and also learn more about how to teach your pup to swim at Swimming Isn't Just for Lab Lovers. If you live on a waterway or have a swimming pool or spa, be sure your dog knows how to swim if he has access to it. Teach him how to get out safely, practicing from different locations to assure he knows how to reach the exit point. This is especially important for smaller dogs that can only exit at very shallow areas. Be aware, too, that natural waterways carry other dangers such as snakes, gators and shells that can cut feet. Maintaining a clear water line will help minimize critters, but you must also be sure to teach your dog to swim with supervision only. Even with my pool being right outside the back door, Tanner knows he must wait permission to swim. He plays on the pool deck for several hours a day, but is well aware that he must follow my rules. This may save his life one day.
7. Know your dog's ability to open gates. If you have one, be sure it is secure. Likewise, if you have a fence, can Fido jump it? Think about whether a bit of encouragement on the other side might give him more energy to make the big leap? They can surprise you sometimes. I probably don't even have to mention that they can also dig under your fence. Dogs have been known to dig under and get stuck. Keep your eyes open for trouble spots.

I know all of you out there have had some sort of crisis in your yard. We all have. Tanner came in one day with a puncture wound; we never figured out how he got it. I suppose a freshly trimmed bush branch could have been the culprit. We'll never know. We found nothing like a sharp pipe or other similar-shaped sharp object anywhere in the yard.

Take a few minutes one day and tour your yard. Look for anything that might injure your dog or catch him. Having a family yard clean up day will be fun for you and the dog, and will help to reduce the chances of vermin in the underbrush.

Finally, I cannot stress supervision enough. Even the cleanest back yard in the county can hide danger you may not be aware of: a new ant hill, a snake hole, a misdirected snapping turtle. I have found each of these in one of our yards over the years. Mother birds nesting nearby can also wreak havoc on a pet playing nearby. Keep your eyes out LIKE A HAWK, AND for hawks. Keep your dogs safe!

One last note: If I've struck a chord here, check out my earlier post on Dog Proofing Your House.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Should You Get a Dog?

Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

(c) photo copyright Toni Boyko 2008

Oliver's First Days
 at Home with Us

The holidays are coming and many a child is already pressing Mom and Dad to get them a puppy. Puppies, and their resultant dogs, are a big responsibility--much more than any child can comprehend. They have no clue how many thousands of dogs end up in humane societies and pounds across the country, just a few short months after the holidays.

Taking on a dog is akin to adopting a child and should be contemplated with the same concern, research, dedication to quality, and vigor that a couple should decide on the time to start a family.

Children will often beg with many enticing reasons why it is time to bring a puppy into the home. Some of the most common that my kids used are:

1. My kids promised to walk the dog every day. 
2. They assured me they would feed them every morning and every night without fail.
3. My children agreed to attend training classes, along with me, to learn how to properly raise our furry friend.
4. They understood, up-front, that crate training was expected, and no puppies would be sleeping in their beds for a very long time.
5. My kids promised not to give the puppy food from the dinner table, no matter how much the dog seemed to want it.
6. They agreed to follow the rules that I established, based on "best practices" for raising a happy, healthy, well-adjusted dog.
7. My children helped me recruit a few of their more trustworthy friends to act as puppy sitters when we were gone for more than a few hours.
8. They agreed to help keep the yard clean of doggie droppings.
9. They offered to bathe the dog when needed.
10. They assured to me they would be involved in socializing the puppy.

Well, you get the idea. Looking back, I believe we hit pay dirt consistently on 4 of the 9 items I listed, which, I suppose is not bad for children. Let's face it; they just were not mature enough to really understand that they were taking on the needs of another living creature.

What made it work for us was one thing; I knew that their commitment would wane along with the enthusiasm of having a puppy. I was prepared to take on the responsibility myself, but thought it would be a good lesson to get them involved to each of their abilities.

All of that has come full circle now, as the 3 dogs are doted over by my now adult "kids" quite thoroughly. It's a proud day for me when one bathes the dogs, another walks them, and still another feeds them. They request that I bring the dogs along to airport pickups, and enjoy the enthusiastic greetings they get each time we re-enter the house.

Me? I enjoy watching how seemlessly the dogs and the kids fall into family life as if nothing ever changed; no one went off to college or moved away to take on a law practice. We are all a family--committed, caring and looking out for one another.

That is what you must look at when you consider bringing a pet into your home. Are you ready for complete commitment? If not, please wait. The dog deserves a home where her needs are met regularly: exercise, discipline and affection, in that order. It is critical that you be dedicated to these, and that you enjoy them.

Yeah, I know. I sound like Cesar Millan. We're on the same page. Consider your decision carefully, with more thought to the dog's needs than to your own. If you do it this way, you will be much more successful.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

ASK THE VET: Adapting to the Loss of a Family Member

Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

Find me on Facebook

Follow me on Twitter

Piwacket Misses Roger

Dear Dr. Jacki:

My father just passed away after a long battle with Alzheimers. He enjoyed his Siamese cat, Piwacket, very much. The kitty has been sleeping on his pillow. I know she is missing him, although she still has "mom" there to comfort her. Do you have any general suggestions for helping pets ease the confusion of missing a family member?

Thanks,

Carrie B.

********************************************

Dear Carrie B:

First of all, I am sorry for your loss.  It is so difficult to lose a family member. 

I think the best thing that we can do to ease our pet’s discomfort is to continue to provide love and attention.  It is great that ‘mom’ is still available to offer these things. It may also help to keep an article of clothing, like a t-shirt, for kitty to lay on. 

 It would be best to keep kitty's routine the same, if possible.  Feeding, exercising, play time schedules should be kept the same as before, if possible.  This gives our pets some stability in a difficult time. 

If kitty was acting sick-not eating, drinking excessive amounts of water, not playing….please call your veterinarian to have an exam. 

Take care,

Dr. Jacki

Dr. Jacki, D.V.M.

ASK THE VET on All Things Dog Blog

LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com 

For more information on Dr. Jacki and her practice, you may find her at  4 Paws House Calls. A personal appointment will likely provide more specific information on your dog and your specific questions.

Dr. Jacki's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian. 

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Training Your Dog for Holiday Visitors: Lesson 2

Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008

Holiday Treats for Your Pups

Holiday mealtime can sometimes be challenging, if your dogs want their part of the action going on around that great smell. Mmmm....turkey!

I have a couple of tips that have worked well for me:

(1) Before a party or holiday meal, I make sure to prepare a batch of what I call "BUSY BONES". These are filled bones, usually cooked beef bones. You can find them in the pet supply stores with fillings like peanut butter and beef flavored filling. After your dog digs out that first filling, simply pop the bone into your dishwasher to sterilize it. Afterwards, you can refill it many times with whatever you choose that will delight our pup.

My dogs' favorite filling is canned, organic dog food. After I pack the core of the bone, I place it in a container and freeze it. This makes the bone more challenging and time consuming to eat, which will keep your pup busy while dinnertime is going on.

Other dogs owners fill their "busy bones" with plain yogurt, peanut butter, cheese, or prepared fillings that you can buy at pet food stores. I tried the yogurt, but Tanner and Oliver were not impressed. Organic, canned food was the next healthiest choice, and they absolutely love this.

(2) Step two is to choose the place you give your dog his BUSY BONE. I send the dogs to their "bed", a cushion in our family room that each of them have to rest on. After they demonstrate a STAY, and a LEAVE IT, I give them permission to eat their bone, on their bed.

These bones can last upwards of 30-45 minutes, when frozen, solving the problem of how to keep the pup away from the buffet dinner. No worries.

If you don't have a busy bone, a treated rawhide is your next best bet for a long-term chewing snack. I get them from my veterinarian, treated with an enzyme that assures digestion. The last thing I want is a perforated stomach from a torn piece of rawhide. Check with your vet to see if they carry these; they're also good for helping to keep their teeth clean. You get a two-fer!

Let me know how you do. Comments? I'd love to hear from you.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Training your Dog for Holiday Visitors: Lesson 1

Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

(c) photo copyright 2008

Time to Practice our Greetings

This year my holiday "To Do" list has something unexpected on it--work with my dogs on their manners. It's not that they are unfriendly; quite the opposite in fact. They are too friendly sometimes, when the doorbell rings and company comes to call. Such is the way during the holidays.

I'd like to hang a sign on the door; something like:

Dear guests:

Please enter calmly. 

Make no eye contact with the dogs. 

Create no excitement.

I know. I know. That would just be plain weird. But the excitement of guests is definitely a contributing factor to the excitement my dogs display when someone arrives.

My plan was to create a Greeting Place, somewhere within view of the front door,where I would send the dogs when the doorbell rings. I tested it a few times with Tanner, who is very accomplished at the STAY command. It seemed to have potential.

The problem is quite simply that I am not there to do the training. With a family member sick, I find myself out of town. The dogs are in the hands of hubby, who definitely has his hands full. With 3 dogs and a cat, hubby is busy with walking, feeding and cleaning up after a houseful of playful animals who are happy to see him after a long day at work. Doubtful training will even make an appearance on his "To Do" list.

Nevertheless, I can share my plan with those of you who would like to work on your own dog's door manners. It is very simple, really:

1. Ring the doorbell and send your dogs to their "place", "spot", "bed" or other permanently named location for greeting.
2. I will use the commands, STAY and DOWN, to get the message across further.
3. Treat the pups after I pet them, if they stay put in their spots.
4. Release them after a short stay and practice again.
5. Repeat several times a day, and Thanksgiving could mean calmer greetings from my "happy-to-meet-you" pups.

Oh well. Maybe at Christmas time; it just was not destined to happen before Thanksgiving. I'll keep it on my To Do list. What about you?

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Service Dogs: They're Not Just for Sight Any More

Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Write to Dr. Jacki, ASK THE VET

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008
"I'm Not a Service Dog
But, I'd Like to Be"

Service dogs have come full circle. We've all seen Seeing Eye Dogs for the blind, but no longer are dogs just  able to help the sight-impaired. Today, dogs are being trained to sense minute changes in body chemistry that can predict a multitude of medical problems. 


Assistance dogs are now being used for sensing allergen presense in an environment or in foods, for highly-allergic patients. This has been particularly useful for those who are severely allergic to peanuts, a food that is processed in the same plants as so many other ingredients. People with heightened sensitivity to peanuts must be extremely vigilant about environments and foods where trace amounts of peanuts could be present.


Dogs are also being used more widely to notify their owners of changes in body chemistry that mean a seizure is imminent or medication is needed quickly. These dogs often are trained to paw or bark at their owner as a notification to take action.


Even memory-impaired patients with various forms of dementia are now receiving help from specially-trained dogs, to stay stable and safe.


Dogs have been found to have such exceptional scenting capabilties, that it is believed there may be many more uses for their  super sniffers. Trainers at specialized training facilities are working to find more uses for our talented companions.


Groups such as Angel Service Dogs help to provide the funding through donations, for service dogs to give help to those in need.


In addition to service dogs and therapy dogs, there is an emerging category referred to as Facility Dogs. These pups assist in various ways with specialized therapy, guided by a handler. They can be found assisting patients with physical therapy and occupational therapy.


In reading about this new category of canine helpers, I was inspired to read about a Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix that is assisting children with their therapy in a burn unit, by playing fetch with the dog. The children are less intimidated by playing with a dog, than working with a therapist, yet the result is the same. They are using their extremities to stretch their skin, while having fun playing with the dog.


My own Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever mix, Xena, would have been thrilled to have this job. She is a sterotypical retriever, with a people loving, playful attitude--even at almost 13.


Want to learn more about service dogs? You can check out some of my sources, or try a Google search. It is truly amazing what dogs can do. I continue to learn this lesson. Even today, while my father is in the hospital, Tanner is giving me moral support when I return home for a little family time. He vigorously rubs his head on my leg, as if to say, "I know Mom, but I'm here for you." 

Sources: USA Today,  About.com: Vet Medicine, Denver Post

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Sharing Human Food with Your Dog: What is Safe and Nutritious?

Follow us on Twitter

Find us on Facebook

© photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2008

Oliver Enjoys his Carrot Snack

We all know at least one family that feeds their dog from the table--anything and everything that is left on the plates. This practice, however, may not meet your dog's unique nutritional needs, and therefore could lead to health problems.



In researching this topic, I found many different opinions. In some areas, both opinions seem to be on solid ground; you should get your veterinarian's opinion, when in doubt. For now, I'll share some of the commonly agreed upon, safe and nutritious foods that we can share with our pups--occasionally. That's the key word. Likewise, I'll toss in a few safety issues that you should know about.


It is generally agreed that low fat cuts of fully cooked meats can be shared in small nibbles--a bite or two--with your dog. Try to avoid fatty foods that may upset their digestive system, or add weight to their smaller frames. Just like with humans, being overweight can add risk to health, so consider this when sharing "snacks" with Fido.


Most vegetables, both cooked and raw, are safe for dogs. Important also is that these are low in fat and high in fiber. Most popular are broccoli, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, peas, and beans. Onions and garlic can cause anemia, and are not recommended.


Not far from my home is a training facility for Canine Companions (assistant dogs for the disabled). Because it is local, many people in my area volunteer there, or act as puppy trainers by fostering a young trainee. I have heard from these volunteers that a frequent afternoon snack that gives the pups an energy boost, is a raw carrot. These are working dogs, of course, so they burn more calories than our typical house pets, as they spend countless hours training and practicing their skills.


I have begun using an occasional carrot snack with Oliver and Tanner, much to their delight. Xena, perhaps because she was not introduced to this food at a younger age, has not had an interest. The two younger ones, however, become quite eager when they see the juice-carrot bag come out of the the refrigerator.


I am careful to choose appropriate sizes for my two pups (one 9 pounds and the other 58 pounds), and I do peel and trim off the stem area, to prevent choking. This is a big favorite at my house, as an occasional snack, and particularly good on those days when we have a lot of physical activity planned. Then I know the extra sugar that carrots contain will be metabolized easily.


Fruits certainly have their varying safety issues, according to different authorities. Of most importance, you should know that grapes and raisins can be quite toxic to your dog, when eaten in large enough portions.



Apples and watermelon appear to be the most common healthy choices, but bananas are recommended, as well. Tanner and Oliver do enjoy apples, but I am careful to peel them to avoid a choking hazard.


Raw meats and bones, while seemingly a natural part of our dogs' ancestors' diets, can have bacteria, cysts and other unhealthy dangers. Unless you work with your vet and a conscientious, reputable butcher, raw meat diets are not often approved by veterinarians. There are exceptions, of course; I would advise you to be extremely careful to check out your source.


Rice and pasta, added to your pets food, can often add bulk when stools are loose, helping to bring things back to normal.


Lowfat cheeses are enjoyed by most dogs and can be given occasionally in VERY small amounts.


Chocolate is a big No No for all dogs. A chemical present in chocolate is quite toxic, when ingested in large enough quantities. Keep all chocolate out of reach of your dogs.


Even cooked bones often involve a choking or splintering hazard and should be avoided for your dog's safety, unless very large and well-cooked. Be sure to remove the bone when your dog begins to EAT the bone; it should be offered only as a "chew toy".


For more detailed information, check out this chart at Drs. Foster and Smith, which includes many more foods that may be found around your home. Also, this article at the American Kennel Club site is quite informational.


Sources: Dog Age, Drs. Foster and Smith

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Health Insurance for Your Dog? What are Your Options?

Follow me on Twitter
Find me on Facebook

Take Care of Your Pup with Insurance

 Tailored to Both of Your Needs

Just like health insurance for humans, pet health insurance comes in many forms and plays an important part in giving us options for our pets' care. Without health insurance, some owners must opt for euthenasia, when serious injury or illness surprises them financially.

Unlike our health insurance, which is considered necessary, most American pet owners do not carry health insurance on their pets. Fewer than 300,000 pets are insured in the United States.

Owners should know their options and seek insurance to help with the types of care that they feel will be most taxing on their finances, as well as their decisions regarding their pets' care.

Insurance types vary, but basic offerings include coverage for accidents and illnesses (the surprises), and coverage for preventive care, vaccinations and annual checkups. The latter items are generally those that can be predicted, so evaluating the cost is easier to do. When seeking insurance for the possibility of a serious illness, accident or long term care, it is especially important to read the fine print. Know what you will get and understand what you will NOT get for your premium dollars. Understanding is key to your decision.

If you are a dog owner whose pet is all-important, and you feel you would invest heavily in his care, if he were to become extremely ill or seriously injured, you may find good value in health insurance. Europeans, for instance, use pet insurance much more widely than Americans.

There are few companies that offer insurance for major illnesses and injuries in the U.S. The primary players appear to be:

• Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) is the largest U.S. insurer, by far, and has been around for nearly 30 years. While they offer a variety of different plans and levels of coverage, they do have some conditions that are excluded, so do your homework. 
• Pet Assure is a much younger company that covers all pets, and turns none away for pre-existing conditions. Their program is technically an alternative to insurance, that offers discounts through a network of participating providers of all kinds in the pet industry. They are able to provide owners with discounts on vet bills, as well as food, boarding, grooming and training. 
• Trupanion is an injury and accident coverage offered through Petco, a major national pet supply chain. This covereage appears to have many appealing benefits such as coverage for congenital disorders, high lifetime limits and no penalties for filing claims. Be sure to read the agreement fully to assure you are receiving what you understand is the coverage. 

The greatest advantage to purchasing health insurance for your pet is the peace of mind that you will be able to afford whatever medical care is required when the unexpected happens. Along with this is the less obvious perk that owners will not have to give as much consideration to whether a doctor's visit is needed, when medical issues occur. When money is not an issue, the decision is much easier to make.

Of course, monthly premiums are a cost that cannot be avoided, but this small payment comes much easier for most of us than a sudden, large medical expense. This is where the decision is often made.

If health insurance for your dog is something you wish to pursue, I encourage you to do your homework, read all the fine print, and know your costs, coverages, and those conditions not covered. Best wishes in keeping your dog healthy.

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

ASK THE VET: Ringworm Care

Follow us on Twitter
Find us on Facebook
Write to ASK THE VET

Avoid Spreading Ringworm
Have Your Dog Checked

Dear Dr. Jacki:

I just discovered ringworm on me. Could I have gotten this from my dog? She is a Chow Chow and has very thick fur, but none is falling out. Wouldn't it be coming out in spots? Other than going to the doctor for myself, should I shave her to check her skin? Winter is coming and I worry she will be cold. I'm not sure what to do. Is there any other way to figure out if she has a ringworm? Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,

Linda C.

*************************************************************

Dear Linda:

Yes, you can get ringworm from your dog.  Some dogs/cats are silent carriers meaning they don’t show any clinical signs but they have the fungus. It is best to take her to a regular veterinarian where they can perform a test (or tests) to determine if ringworm is present. 


Treatment for animals consists of baths and/or oral medications. Some animals need to be shaved in order for the treatment baths or dips to come in contact with the skin. I would leave the decision to shave up to the veterinarian. Because ringworm is zoonotic, this pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

A sweater or shirt may be necessary, but it depends. If the sweater rubs on the ringworm lesion, it may spread the ringworm. This decision, too, should be made by your veterinarian.

Best wishes,


Dr. Jacki




Dr. Jacki, D.V.M.

ASK THE VET on All Things Dog Blog

LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com 

For more information on Dr. Jacki and her practice, you may find her at  4 Paws House Calls. A personal appointment will likely provide more specific information on your dog and your specific questions.

Dr. Jacki's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian. 

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Calling all Dog Park Lovers with I Phones

Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Write to ASK THE VET

© photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

Can we Borrow Your I Phone

 to find Another Dog Park?

While there may be other similar apps out there for the I Phone, this one just came to my attention via a reader's email. Thanks to "M", I'm sharing it with you. Your comments and other ideas are welcome. Punch the comment link at the bottom of the post anytime you want to let me in on a new doggie tip. You can also write to me at LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com. Here's the info on the dog park app:

Off Leash

Created by Eukanuba

Price: Free

"Your four-legged traveling companion will appreciate this new free app from Eukanuba that finds off-leash dog parks in your area. Imagine you’ve been on the road for the day. You’re in an unfamiliar place and want to give your dog a little roaming time. ‘Off Leash’ will locate the 5 nearest dog parks (from a database that is updated with new parks every 2 weeks) and give you driving directions to one of your choice. Good thing your dog can’t use your iPhone, but we hear they’re working on an app for that."

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

What Does Your License Plate Say? Dog Vanity Plates are Making a Real Statement

Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

© photo copyright 2008 Carrie Boyko

Put on Your Thinking Cap

It's game time folks. A loyal reader has suggested a fun topic, and I am off to rush hour traffic to see if I can find some good ideas. Here's the game:

Best Vanity License Plate

(Dog Themes Only, please)

Put your thinking caps on and let's have some fun. We've all seen some cute vanity license plates on cars in front of us. I get a chuckle quite often from some I see, and enjoy figuring out what some of them mean.


Have you got a good idea for a doggie vanity plate? Send it in by December 5th and you could be a prize winner. The rules are simple: (1) 8 letters or numbers maximum, (2) Keep it clean; (this is a family game), and (3) Submissions must arrive by 5:00 p.m. December 5, 2009 to LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com. In the subject line, please note Vanity Plate Submission.The judges' decisions are final; I will determine who the judges will be.


Your adorable Fifi or hunky Fido will win a photo op on my blog, along with a prize for 1st and 2nd place. I'll also share your clever license plate creation, so be sure to register it, if you plan to use it! I don't want anybody else beating you to the punch.


First place prize:  Water bottle to go (bottle and bowl attached), plus your pup's photo on the blog.


Second Place prize: Nylabone (suitably sized for your pup), plus your dog's photo on the blog.


Third Place prize: Your pup's photo on the blog.


Prizes will be awarded before year's end. What's your vanity plate idea? I did a little brain storming and came up with a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing. I know you can beat these:


LAB LVR, GR8T LABS, DOG 411, I LUV DOGS, 3 DOG PAK, DOGS R LUV, BZ DOG MOM, 3BZDOGS, LAB CAB, KENNEL, SIT STAY, TOP DOGS, DOG PK FUN, KENEL 2 GO, FIDO FUN, FIFI FUN, DOGS 4EVR, FETCH ME, LUV A MUTT. That last one is my personal favorite. "Kennel" is what my husband calls my car (he's just jealous!).


Now it's your turn. I can hardly wait!


Let the games begin!

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Top Ten Tips for Tackling Ticks (say that 3 X fast!)

Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

photo courtesy of N.I.H., copyright A.D.A.M.

I'm hearing from all you dog lovers out there that ticks are a particularly troublesome problem this year. Unlike fleas, these gnarly little creatures cannot be as effectively annihilated with a hit of Capstar (Eek!) or other product for an infestation.


I hear your cry. Since my recent camping experience, we have found that more than a few of these little boarders came home with us. I've asked our staff vet, organic lawn care professionals, natural pest control professionals and the info gods at Google, and learned that there is no definitive, all-encompassing way to slam these parasites. Everyone seems to have a different take on the best practices.


Weeding through the options and propaganda, here's my top ten picks for you to try, if you find they're pestering your Rover too. For those of you who prefer an all-natural approach, you can read the post at the link for more ideas.


1. Avoid walking your dog through treed areas, if possible. Consider that Rover may be the key word--roving or walking under treed areas. Avoiding tick infested areas such as the woods for hiking (my bad!) is your first line of defense against these critters.


2. Groom immediately after walking through treed areas, using your fingers, seeking the ticks, while giving affection. Continue this practice daily until your pet is tick-free for about a month. Begin again anytime you walk in treed areas. 


3. Keep your dog on a tick prevention product, following instructions correctly.


4. Treat your yard regularly, especially if you have trees or find a problem with ticks on your dog.


5. If you get a problem, treat your house, also.


6. Vacuum carpet, bedding and furniture frequently until all problems abate. Also, wash pet bedding in hot water regularly.


7. Bathing makes finding ticks easier, if your dog has thick or dark fur. This can be an easier way to find and remove them.


8. Removal should be done by extraction, pulling the tick away from the pet's skin in a perpendicular motion. Remember to check between the toes also, and use tweezers for removal in these tougher areas to access.


9. Live ticks must be crushed with a blunt instrument, to assure death; these suckers have tough exteriors. If you're squeamish about crushing them, you can drop them into a small amount of alcohol, which will have the same effect.


10. If you have other pets in the home, treat them also.


Finally, if you do experience a tick infestation, seek your veterinarian's advice on any further treatment, vaccines, or tests that your pet may need. Dr. Jacki will be glad to see you, if you experience this problem. She may be found at 4PawsHouseCalls, where you will find her phone number and other helpful information.



Comments? Questions? Ideas or thoughts? Please toss me a bone: The COMMENT link is just below the post.


Sources: Dr. Jacki Bert, Drs. Foster and Smith, Bug Brigade Pest Control

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook

Welcome to the Easier Access All Things Dog Blog: What Does this Mean to You?

Find us at Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

(c) photo copyright Carrie Boyko 2009

My Pack is Celebrating the Success of

All Things Dog Blog

Hello Dog Lovers!


I am very excited to tell you that All Things Dog Blog is moving up in the world. Without you even knowing it you have just visited our new, upgraded site. What's new? What's upgraded? Good question!


Every time I am asked the name of my blog, people just look at me sideways when I babble off the long name. As of now, I have gotten through the Google gods' website and red tape and am officially a DOT COM. What does that mean to you?


Easier access!  Now, if you are not a subscriber, you simply type in ALLTHINGSDOGBLOG.COM, and you're there. If you ARE a subscriber, congratulations on your smart choice. You will never have to type my name to read my articles. My posts will come to your email box all by themselves--like magic! (HINT: Subscribing is as easy as 1, 2, 3, in the upper right side of the blog.) Either way, it's much easier and I'm thrilled to be able to offer this to you all at no charge.


One more thank you before I shut up. Your interest in the ASK THE VET column has been quite noticeable. Dr. Jacki is one busy lady. Thanks for your questions, and keep those emails coming to: LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com.


You can continue to support this free website by visiting my sponsors and clicking on ads of interest to you. Anything you purchase through my site from Amazon, Google or others will help to cover my costs of providing this website free of charge. I thank you in advance for your support and encourage you to let me know your thoughts at the COMMENT link below each and every post. Your opinions and ideas do count.


Happy tails,


Carrie Boyko
Xena, Tanner and Oliver too!

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Follow All Things Dog at Twitter

Find me at Facebook