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It’s Back-to-School Time: 10 Tips to Help Your Dog Adjust By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day.” - John Grogan, Author It’s August, which means in some areas of the country it’s already back-to-school time, while in other states, the leisurely summer days are quickly counting down as the traditional school-time month of September is right around the corner. No matter when your children go back to school, it’s a time of change and can be stressful for your family dog. According to Rover.com, “While some dogs handle these changes fine, for others it can be scary or frustrating to see the world they’d gotten used to in the summer months suddenly change.” So, what can we do to help our dogs transition more easily to the new fall schedule? 1. Start the new routine now, including early to bed, early to rise, breakfast with the kids, and a walk with your dog to and from the school or bus stop. Practice paves the way! And don’t forget praise as your dog adjusts to the new routine. 2. Do you drive your student to school? Let the dog come along! 3. Install video cameras to keep an eye on your dog when no one is home (some even have treat dispensers!) 4. Play music or leave the TV on low for background noise to keep your dog company. (My Huskies loved the weather station–a mix of voices and music!) There is even a subscription DOGTV channel with 24/7 programming designed to help pass the time and ease canine anxiety. 5. Hire a dog walker or have a trusted family member or friend come and let your dog out for some exercise and a little playtime while everyone is at work and school. 6. Enroll your dog in school! There are classes available for agility, dance, and even tricks! Or, how about having them meet some new canine friends by attending doggy daycare, or a visit to a nearby dog park for some fun socializing with other dogs. 7. When your children come home from school and have a snack, let your dog join in and have a special treat with them so it becomes a favorite part of your dog’s day. 8. Dogs make wonderful study partners! While your child is doing homework or studying, let the family dog be nearby for belly rubs and petting (does wonders for both dog and child). 9. Are your children away at college? Let them FaceTime with your dog! Afterwards, to help chase away any blues, leash up your dog and go out for a nice walk together, and maybe even stop off at a dog-friendly café for a treat. 10. If your dog seems really sad, it might be a good time to think about getting him/her a fur buddy (if your dog is open to it) by fostering or adopting a dog from a local rescue. We can’t keep change from happening, but we can be creative in finding ways to keep the family dogs occupied and happy while the children are in or away at school. Then, when the kids are back home and greet their waiting dogs, the reunion will be such a happy one! Did You Know? 4Knines carries not only car seat covers, but also covers for the doors, truck seats, and even cargo liners? What a great way to protect your vehicle when bringing your dog along to bring/pick up the kids from school! Walking with your dog to meet your kids at the bus stop or school? 4Knines also has dog seat belts, durable slip lead dog leashes, and no pull/no choke design harnesses with quick release buckles, and reflective straps (all the better to see them in the dark and stormy weather!) 4Knines is a USA-based company and, as always, all their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! They also donate to multiple animal advocacy groups, as well as groups that help veterans with service dogs. Check out all the great items for your dog’s needs HERE. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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August 2023 Charity Spotlight Service Dogs of Distinction Service Dogs of Distinction was founded in 2015 by two dog trainers who wanted to use their passion for service dogs to make a difference in the lives of veterans suffering from PTSD. Nearly 20% of all veterans suffer from PTSD, and there is an estimated shortage of over 200,000 service dogs. Service Dogs of Distinction recognized that some service dog providers were taking advantage by charging veterans enormous sums of money for inadequately trained dogs. In contrast, Service Dogs of Distinction provides all services at no cost to qualifying veterans. Service Dogs of Distinction utilizes dogs from shelters and from individuals who are looking to rehome young dogs with the desired demeanor and characteristics. Their goal is to understand the unique needs of each veteran and to find and train a dog that will best meet his/her needs. Dogs-in-training live with a professional trainer as a family member and part of an existing pack. The dogs are never isolated or disconnected from the social structure of the household. Before dogs are paired with a new client, the trainer spends a few months teaching the dogs important lessons about boundaries and socialization. When dogs-in-training are introduced to new veteran clients, this is where the magic happens! The Service Dogs of Distinction team likes to say they “let the dog do the picking!” Once a pair is matched, they complete 12-15 months of weekly training together. In essence, the veteran is trained to train the dog because this approach creates a solid service team that will continue to do well together, even after graduation. During training, they will pass the Canine Good Citizen Test and the Public Access Test. The remainder of their training consists of exposure to many different public scenarios and honing the three specific behaviors the dog will need to mediate his veteran’s disability. Service Dogs of Distinction serves the areas of Arkansas, southern Missouri, and eastern Oklahoma. They are a hands-on organization that stays focused on their clients’ needs. In addition to serving veterans, Service Dogs of Distinction offers reasonably priced training services to civilians who need a well-trained dog or service animal. The cost of training a service dog is approximately $20,000. 4Knines is proud to shine a light on the work of Service Dogs of Distinction, and we hope you will consider joining us in supporting their work by making a tax deductible donation.
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Tips For Keeping Your Dog Hydrated By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “A well-hydrated pet is a healthy pet. Make water their best friend.” - Author Unknown Whew! The hot weather is here in the northeast, and July is National Pet Hydration Month, as declared by PetSafe. The purpose of this awareness is to drive home the importance of keeping our pets well hydrated all year round, and especially during the hot summer months. “Keeping pets hydrated is a simple habit that can be an after-thought for many of us. Our pets need 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight. Most pets don’t get enough water, especially during extreme temperatures,” states Robin Rhea of PetSafe. Translated, that means if you have a 98-pound dog, s/he will require about 98 ounces of water a day, while a small 10-lb dog will need approximately 10 ounces of water per day. Ways to Keep Your Dog Hydrated: Have fresh water available for your pet at all times at home and in a take-along bottle for car rides and walks. Be sure dish is clean. (Please, during the hot weather, only walk your dogs in the during early morning or in the evening, and watch out for hot blacktop! And NEVER leave a dog in a parked car on a warm or hot day!) With vet’s approval, give pet moisture-filled foods, such as moist dog food. You can also add in a little bit of water, organic plain yogurt, summer fruits, such as pureed watermelon (remove the seeds), organic berries, and pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) to your dog’s food. Let your dog chomp on cool cucumbers! Cukes are 95% water and are a great way to add a little hydration to your dog’s diet. (Read my FiveSibes article HERE for more info). For the picky water drinkers, you can add some bite-sized cucumbers pieces, crushed ice, a splash of unsweetened coconut milk, or low-sodium organic bone broth to naturally flavor up the water in your dog’s dish. *Some dogs on certain medications, such as bromides, need to be careful of salt intake. Again, always check with your vet before giving it to your dog. Whip up some healthy, delicious doggy smoothies in a blender using dog-friendly organic ingredients such as plain (unsweetened) yogurt, a little virgin coconut oil, fresh kale or spinach, strawberries or blueberries, water, and ice. Pour into their bowl or freeze for a cool treat. Stuff and freeze a classic Kong® toy with creamy organic peanut butter (be sure the ONLY ingredient is just peanuts) for a longer lasting cool tasty treat. Make some home-made frozen treats. Fill a large ring mold (or individual popsicle molds) with fresh water, add in a few treats like blueberries, homemade bite-sized dog cookies, bits of cucumbers, etc., and freeze. Then put the frozen ring out for a fun, long-lasting hydrating summer treat! 💡 A good tip to keep in mind is to always check with your vet before giving anything new to your dog. 💡 When you cut up any foods, fruits, or vegetables, always be sure it’s bite-sized that is appropriate for your dog. Watch Out for Signs of Dehydration According to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Jerry Klein, who has expertise in veterinary emergency and critical care, the following are among symptoms of canine dehydration: Loss of skin elasticity Loss of appetite Vomiting (with or without diarrhea) Reduced energy levels and lethargy Panting Sunken, dry-looking eyes Dry nose Dry, sticky gums Thick saliva If your dog shows any signs listed above, go immediately to the veterinarian. Golden Rule: Just Keep Them Cool! Using common sense and keep your dogs hydrated and cool during the warm and hot weather days is critical to their health. If you feel hot, just think about how your dog is feeling, and they cannot sweat. So always keep their water dishes filled with cool, fresh water, get those hoses busy filling up kiddie pools, turn on your sprinklers and or oscillating sprinkler fans, and seek out shady spots when outdoors. In the hottest parts of the day, just keep them inside with fresh water and the air conditioner running! Dogs cannot say they are hot, but there are signs. So be vigilant, be caring, and be observant, so both you and your furry best friend can enjoy the summer days safely. Do You Have a 4Knines Stainless Steel Dog Dish? In addition to waterproof vehicle seat and cargo liners, 4Knines has an amazing large capacity stainless steel dog dish available in several cool colors. This dish holds 64 ounces/8 cups of food or water! The bowls are made of non-toxic, rust-resistant, 18/8 food-grade, double-walled stainless steel that is easy to clean and built to last a lifetime. Great for food and water. The non-slip bottom ring keeps the bowl from sliding and flipping, allowing your dog to eat or drink while minimizing spills. Keep your floor clean and scratch-free. As always, 4Knines is committed to giving back to the animal community. They donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups. Shop HERE for their dishes and all of their products. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Keeping Your Grass Green With Dogs By Dorothy Wills-Raftery It’s that nice time of year when we spend a lot of time outdoors doing garden work and preening our lawns into lush green carpets. And what dog doesn’t love to roll around on the cool grass, or even swipe a few nibbles of the green blades? As you’re romping with your dog, you spy yellow or dead spots on the lawn from where your dog has been doing its business. Wait, are we talking about pee spots? Yes, we are! Are these urine spots normal? Yes! Urine spots on the lawn are completely natural, notes PDSA, the UK’s Vet Charity For Pets in Need. “Because dogs naturally have nitrogen in their pee from the normal breakdown of proteins, when it hits the grass it can ‘burn’ the area they pee on. A common misconception is that the grass is damaged because of the pH (acidity) of the urine, but this is not true. On the bright side, the grass surrounding this will get extra nutrients from your dog’s pee so will probably start to look greener!” Why does a dog’s urine ruin the grass? “As the water in their pee evaporates, what’s left behind is a high concentration of nitrogen,” states the American Kennel Club (AKC.org). “If left untreated, the grass will appear brown at the center and green at the edges where the nitrogen is less concentrated, which leaves those nasty yellow marks.” What are some ways to prevent these burn spots on grass? A great way to alleviate this problem is to give your dogs their own specific area as a “doggy bathroom,” and train them with positive reinforcement to learn that is where they can go to do their business. This is exactly what we did for our five Siberian Huskies, three females and two males. Some people may say it is easier to train a female dog, but it is actually just as easy to help train a male dog by understanding their needs. A tree, pole, or even a faux hydrant in the yard are all things that will appeal to a male dog to pee on. When they go, male or female, use positive reinforcement to drive home how happy you are they are going potty in their designated outdoor bathroom area. The use of pee pads can help puppies learn where to go when outside, just the same as indoors. For our Huskies when they were puppies, we would open our back door and say, “Potty off the deck,” the command they were taught, along with extending an arm pointing off our deck to their bathroom area of the yard. It didn’t take very long before they knew exactly where to go, and they ran back eager for their reward “prize” of a treat. Not everyone’s dogs free roam in the yard, but basically the same method of training can be used for leash walking. Simply walk the dog to the specific area you want to use as their bathroom area. Again, once they “go,” positive praise (and treats) will let them know they hit their mark! Either method, training your dog where they should and can go, keeps them off the lawn area you want to keep green. By being consistent and positive, they quickly learn exactly where their place is to go. Can what dogs eat or drink make a difference? According to Nandini Maharaj on AKC.org, in addition to your dog’s drinking water being good for their overall health, “The increased water consumption may have the added benefit of reducing damage to your grass,” as well as a more natural and less processed type of dog food, which “can reduce the amount of nitrogen in their urine.” In addition to keeping fresh, clean water available for your dogs at all times, to help aid in increasing your dog’s water consumption, you can a little bit of organic fruits to your dog’s diet, such as watermelon, blueberries, cantaloupe, and apple slices. Before changing or adding anything to your dog’s diet, always consult with your veterinarian. What about urine neutralizing supplements for your dog? You may have heard of products or supplements out on the market that claim to help neutralize a dog’s pee so it does not burn or ruin grass. However, an important message from Maharaj and AKC.org, is to “Exercise caution when using enzyme supplements that claim to prevent grass burns. These products can change the acidity or alkalinity of your dog’s pee, potentially affecting their health.” So once again, always check with your vet before giving any new product to your dog. Your dog has peed on the grass. Here are a few helpful tips: To help the lawn recover, many lawncare professionals will recommend watering down the pee area with lots and lots of hose water. Key is to be sure the urine spot is completely diluted, so don’t be afraid to flood it with the hose! According to the Yard & Garden Guru, baking soda can be used to help neutralize the pee spot. “A gallon of water and two tablespoons of baking soda are required for this procedure. Pour the sodium bicarbonate mixture over the spot where the animal has urinated. Since the ammonia and nitrogen in dog urine are neutralized by baking soda, the grass won’t turn brown and leave a damaged area. The added benefit of baking soda is that it is safe for animals.” Keep up with continued lawn care. “Maintain your grass,” states the AKC.org. “Reseed the dead patches and switch to a dog-friendly fertilizer that contains less nitrogen. Water your lawn regularly, ensuring the water penetrates deeply into the soil.” Also, the type of grass you plant can make a difference. Notes the Yard & Garden Guru, “Choose your type of grass carefully as ryegrass, and tall fescue grass grow slightly urine resistant.” Already have a ruined patch of grass? Dig it up and plant new grass. Is your yard stinky? To help get rid of dog potty odors, obviously always clean up after your dog. There are natural or “green” eco-friendly odor eliminators you can hook up to your hose and spray across the lawn (even plants, the deck, and patio) to help get rid of the odor. Some have citronella or oils in them, so be sure the ingredients do not adversely affect your dog (or trigger a dog with seizures). Naturally, wait until the application is dried before allowing your dogs back outside. Not sure if it a product is safe around your dog? Check with your vet. Did You Know…? 4Knines has stylish gray dog poop bag holders and extra-large 100% recycled poop bags? Click HERE to check out all their products. 4Knines is committed to giving back to the animal community. They donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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July 2023 Charity Spotlight The Puppy Mama Rescue The Puppy Mamma Rescue is an Arizona nonprofit organization that rescues and fosters pregnant dogs and puppies. They provide nurturing, compassion and care to puppies and their mammas until they find their fur-ever homes. Pregnant dogs typically come to The Puppy Mamma Rescue from county shelters. Some of these vulnerable dogs have never been in a home before and are terrified of everything; some have been abused and/or have serious health issues. Foster families care for the pregnant dogs, providing plenty of TLC in a safe environment where they feel safe, calm, and pampered until their puppies arrive. The Puppy Mamma Rescue also rescues at-risk puppy litters to ensure spay and neuter practices are followed to prevent future abandoned puppy litters. Mamma dogs and puppy litters do not leave The Puppy Mamma Rescue’s safekeeping until they are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. The Puppy Mamma Rescue Facebook page features some great videos and stories about the puppies and mammas who are available for adoption. There are also some fabulous 5-star reviews from families who have adopted mammas and puppies from The Puppy Mamma. "It’s been 2 weeks with “Maggie” (Jelly was her original name) we absolutely love her. She is full of spunk but has such a sweet side. Still working in potty training but she does great with our hybrid crate training. So glad she joined our family. We call her our little sour patch pup!" "Darla is an absolutely adorable dog. I truly believe keeping them with the mama made a well adjusted puppy. I highly recommend! They are outstanding!" "We saw Honey on the website & fell in love with her. Contacted the rescue & they were very informative. We set up a date & time & knew she was for us. We have had her 9 weeks & love her so much, her name is now Mia." As an all-volunteer organization, The Puppy Mamma Rescue relies solely on the kindness and generosity of animal lovers who open their hearts and their homes. We hope you will consider helping The Puppy Mamma Rescue continue to care for pregnant canines and orphaned puppies who desperately need help. There are lots of ways to help! 4Knines is happy to shine a light on animal advocacy groups each month in our 4Knines Monthly Spotlight articles. Since Day One, 4Knines has given back to the animal community with product donations and cash contributions, and we are proud to support the ongoing efforts of The Puppy Mamma Rescue.
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The Importance of Socializing Your Dog By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “Socializing your dog through puppyhood and adolescence is one of the best ways to ensure that they become a friendly and confident adult.” - Animal Humane Society With the nicer weather upon us, more folks are outdoors having adventures with their dogs. But, have you socialized your dog with other dogs, as well as people and children, before co-mingling? We hear about socializing our dogs a lot these days, but just how important is it to do? “The first thing when talking about socializing your dog is to understand what that really means,” indicates Nicole Forto, pro and camp trainer for Dog Works Training Company: Alaska Dog Works, who also has a solid presence on Instagram under @n.akdogtrainer. “Socializing your dog or puppy is more about getting them used to and being around different environments, sounds, people, dogs on leashes, dogs off leashes, and then playing with other dogs.” What if my dog doesn’t want to socialize? Some dogs are naturals at getting along with other dogs, while others are resistant or not open to socialization at all. Says Forto, “Dogs that aren’t friendly or do not want dog friends, should still go out for walks, and be praised when they observe/ignore/or act neutral when they observe other dogs around.” Forto says dogs that do not get out with others can create unwanted behaviors. “Isolation leads to worse behavior as they never get the chance to build up both a habit or routine when they come across other things outside of their home. Dogs are habitual in nature, so if their routine is only life in your home, they will only know how to behave and act in the home setting.” According to the Animal Humane Society, “The greatest window of learning in a dog’s life starts around three weeks of age and closes between 16 and 20 weeks. This period allows puppies to be exposed to a wide variety of sights, sounds, smells, and sensations without becoming fearful. Puppies who miss out on these experiences may never learn to be comfortable around unfamiliar things, paving the way for anxiety, fear, and aggression later on in life.” Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs, and personal dogs all excel with socialization training. Forto trains dogs in a myriad of ways including assisting in the pre-training of Service Dogs, behavior modification, and board-and-train, with clients who come in from not just areas in Alaska, but also from across the country as well. For Service and Therapy Dogs, Forto states, “All dogs in our programs go through three levels of the American Kennel Club Obedience skills.” She says they start with Canine Good Citizen (CGC), then Community Canine Citizen (CCC), and finishes up with Urban Canine Good Citizen (UCGC). The Board-and-Train program (which she says they refer to as “camp”) is “When a dog comes and stays with us 14-30 days, depending on the program selection.” The dog is “trained daily, socialized, and any behavioral issues worked on.” The dogs then return home “with the tools and knowledge built for them and transferred to their home setting with a go-home class. It’s fun and similar to sending your kid to summer camp. There’s teaching, activities, making friends, etc.” Socialization is not just for puppies; adult and senior dogs, and rescue dogs all benefit, too. Besides the importance of starting to socialize a puppy, it’s just as important for adult and senior dogs, as well as dogs any age adopted from rescues. Explains Forto, “It’s highly important for any dog, any age, and any background to go through socialization practice. Socialization helps dogs to build trust with their owners in high stress environments. It challenges their obedience and focus…builds their confidence and widens their world to more than just being home,” says Forto. Hindy Pearson, a fellow dog trainer who has also trained dogs all over the world, is a huge advocate of dogs in their golden years. She also offers health and wellness advice for senior dogs, and runs the Senior Dog Care Facebook group and the Grey Paws and All website. Pearson, like Forto, wholeheartedly believes in socialization, even for older dogs. “I can’t emphasize enough the importance of socializing a dog, and that goes for seniors as well,” says Pearson. “We need to do our best to teach them how to live calmly and happily in our world.” Start off training socialization slow and simple. When one starts out socializing their dog, there are some key things to keep in mind. Says Pearson, “We don’t often know the background of a rescue dog, and spending time in a shelter can cause anxiety. Make sure you slowly introduce him/her to people, places, and things so he has time to adapt to his new environment.” Forto also emphasizes the importance of starting out slow and easy. “When you begin socializing your dog, it starts as simple as your dog on leash in your front yard just observing the things that pass him/her on the street or sidewalk.” The key, she says, is, “For us as the owner/handler to mark the praise-worthy behaviors, such as sitting and seeing.” She cites an example: “Let’s say a person is walking their dog. Your dog looks at you, you praise. That’s the start of them learning that just because they see exciting things, we are the best thing. You gradually build them up to different locations.” What about socializing at dog parks? Many people go to dog parks to let their dogs engage in play. But before you take your dog to a reputable park, be sure your dog can socialize. Prior to heading out with your dogs, Forto offers some insight on introductions for play time. “Start by walking your dogs on leash together and do this until both demonstrate less excitement towards the other, then let one off leash at a time and praise when they approach and walk away. And, get excited with them when they express a play bow, then encourage healthy play with the second dog off leash.” Preventing aggression and positive reinforcement is key in socializing dogs. According to the Animal Humane Society, “There's no need to show the dog who’s boss or try to dominate him. Confrontational approaches, like pinning your dog down or scruffing him, frequently backfire and create the aggression dog owners seek to avoid. Focus on rewarding correct behavior and preventing undesirable behavior to teach your puppy human rules and build a trusting relationship.” Did You Know…? 4Knines has some great products for your outings with your dogs? From vehicle seat covers to seat belts, harnesses, slip lead dog leashes, and even blankets, they have them all! PLUS, they donate a portion to canine non-profits each month! Check it out HERE! Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Lost and Found Dogs: Resources to Help By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “Not all stray dogs are homeless.” - LostDogsOfAmerica.org With the arrival of nicer weather, lots of folks are planning vacations and even staycations with their dogs, while others may leave their dogs home with a trusted family member or friend or possibly board them out. But while you are making plans, have you given thought to what happens if your dog gets loose from where they are staying and suddenly becomes lost? Or, you come across a dog that is lost? In either case, what do you do? What are the first steps to get a report and poster out? How wide of a net should you go cast with notices of a lost or found dog? The good news is there are professional answers to these questions, and reliable resources to help. In getting the word out, social media is a huge asset in helping share reports of a lost or found dog. Because dogs can travel, or be taken, great distances, it is key to share notices and fliers not just locally, but across the country. There have been wonderful stories of dogs reunited with their families from hundreds of miles away, and sometimes even months to years later. A reunion between a lost pet and family is always a joyous occasion to celebrate. What happens when a dog becomes lost? Obviously, it is a very confusing and scary time for a dog as they are no longer with their family or in their familiar surroundings. According to Lost Dog of America, they go into “survival mode, a natural response that dogs can exhibit when they are lost or separated from their owners. It is characterized by a range of behaviors that help dogs adapt to their new environment and increase their chances of survival until they can be reunited with their owners.” How to begin a Lost Dog search? A great place to start is with assistance from Lost Dogs of America, that is an extensive informational site that also includes a network of Facebook pages across America that now includes all 50 states and the District of DC. They are a FREE service. How to post your lost or found notice (dog, cat, or other pet)? First stop, lists LostDogsOfAmerica.org, is to file a report using this link (https://petfbi.org/) and PetFBI will work with you to take your report and automatically create a FREE flyer and “your listing will be posted to the appropriate state page.” To find a Lost Dogs Facebook page in your state, visit: https://lostdogsofamerica.org/. Be sure to have a current photo of your dog and description, as well as microchip number and as much info to the location where the dog was last located. Also important is to list any markings, special needs, and/or medications the dog may be on. What are the first things to do when a dog goes missing? According to Lost Dogs of America, there are five things to do: Immediately put out food, water, dog’s bed, and an article of your clothing at the scene where your dog went missing in case the dog returns (and yes, it is possible). Make flyers and signs (similar to Garage & Yard Sale signs). Have dog’s photo and a contact number (that will be public) on the sign. Check your phone often! Go door-to-door in the neighborhood where you dog was last with posters to see if anyone has seen him/her. Contact local animal shelters and rescues, animal control office, police, and vet clinics to report your dog missing. It’s also important to contact the microchip company and your own vet to let them both know the dog is missing. Instruct everyone who is helping search for your dog to NOT chase or call your dog. They should lay down, avert eye contact, and gently toss out treats to lure the dog in while calling you on the phone. Post your dog on HelpingLostPets.com. It is a no-cost data base run by the non-profit Pet FBI. Through their online form, they will take you through the steps to create a Lost or Found flyer. What to do if you’ve found a dog? States Lost Dogs of America: Check for a license and ID tag. Ask around the neighborhood to see if anyone recognizes the dog. Have the dog scanned for a microchip. Bring the found dog to a veterinarian or shelter office for scanning. Report the found dog to all authorities. These include local police (non-emergency line), town/city animal control office. Bring the dog with you if you cannot leave it safely at home. Create a Found flyer. Post them around the neighborhood and at animal service businesses. Post the found dog to PetFBI.org, NextDoor, newspapers (note: be careful with this one. Do not give away too many details. Let the burden of proof be on the caller to be sure it is indeed the dog’s legit owner and not a scam). List on any Lost and Found Facebook groups. What contact number should you use on flyers and posters? In this day and age, and for safety sake, it’s nice to have another option other than listing your own telephone number in order to weed out any calls that are unrelated to your lost pet. Did you know that Google Voice can provide a FREE internet telephone service that will supply you with a phone number to use? According to Lost Dogs of America, “Google Voice will redirect the calls to your existing phone so you’ll still get sightings and leads as soon as they come in. You will also get an email when you miss a call.” To set this up, you will need a Google account or Email first, then go to the Google Voice website to sign up. Set up Email Alerts when a dog fitting yours is located. How? Visit here: https://lostdogsofamerica.org/set-up-email-alerts-from-shelter-software-systems-to-help-locate-your-missing-pet/ Be sure to check out the website for a large library of more tips including tracking info, other steps to take, info on microchips, helpful articles, and much more. It truly is a one-stop shop to help with lost and found dogs. Tune in to The Sibe Vibe’s “Help Me! I’m Lost!” Podcast This 2-part series, hosted by The Sibe Vibe aired on Dog Works Radio, features Kathy Pobloskie, is the co-founder of Lost Dogs of America, an umbrella organization for other Lost Dogs State Facebook pages. She is also the director and co-founder of Lost Dogs of Wisconsin, an all-volunteer 501c.3 organization committed to reuniting owners with their lost dogs. The other featured guest is Barb McDonald, a Siberian Husky owner for more than 40 years, Husky rescue adopter and volunteer, a Lost Dogs of Wisconsin volunteer, and one of the admins to the Lost/Found Husky Dogs group page on Facebook. The information in this two-part series is packed with helpful information: Part 1: Part 2: So, if you’ve lost a dog, or should see a stray one, we hope the information and tips listed here will help bring a happily ever after to both dog and family. 4Knines is a pet-focused business. They believe it is important to give back to the animal community. Over the past 10 years of doing business, “Every purchase made has helped dogs all across the country.” They showcase efforts of animal advocacy groups through donations they make to a different canine charity each month. In addition, 4Knines donates all like-new returned items to organizations that help dogs in need. Check out their line of fantastic products HERE! Did You Know…? 4Knines hosts a monthly Photo Contest! Take a photo of your dog using one of their products, upload it HERE, and you could win a $50 4Knines gift card and be featured on their social media! Enter Photo Contest Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Protect Your Furry Friend and Your Wallet: Discover the Benefits of Pet Insurance Why Every Pet Parent Should Consider Investing in Pet Insurance for a Lifetime of Peace of Mind By 4Knines Founders, Jim & Maggie Hey there, fellow pet parent! We all know how much our furry companions mean to us and how they become a cherished part of our families. They bring us so much joy and happiness. But just like us, pets can also face health issues and accidents. And when those unexpected veterinary expenses come knocking, they can really put a strain on our finances, forcing us to make tough decisions. We know first-hand what it is like to have an injured pup and hearing from the vet surgery is going to be $4,000 - $5,000. Our dobie Ana tore both her ACLs in her knees when she was only 3 years old. Two different surgeries! Both of which were over $4,000 to repair. It would have been difficult to come up with that kind of money out of the blue, but we would have done whatever we needed to get her back on her feet. Thankfully, we had good pet insurance. Having that coverage made all the difference in providing her with the best care possible without the financial stress that comes from surprise bills like that. We know first-hand what it is like to have an injured pup and hearing from the vet surgery is going to be $4,000 - $5,000. Our dobie Ana tore both her ACLs in her knees when she was only 3 years old. Two different surgeries! Both of which were over $4,000 to repair. It would have been difficult to come up with that kind of money out of the blue, but we would have done whatever we needed to get her back on her feet. Thankfully, we had good pet insurance. Having that coverage made all the difference in providing her with the best care possible without the financial stress that comes from surprise bills like that. Pet insurance is basically health insurance for your furry friend. It offers financial protection by covering a portion of your pet's medical expenses. Pet insurance is such a smart move for any pet owner, giving you peace of mind and long-term cost savings. For us, it has been invaluable protection for our dogs that unfortunately, we have needed to use multiple times. 1. Comprehensive Coverage for Veterinary Costs One of the main reasons to consider getting pet insurance is the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive coverage for veterinary costs. Our pets, just like us, can face various health issues throughout their lives. They might have accidents, develop illnesses, or even have genetic conditions. And let's face it, medical treatments and surgeries can be quite expensive. Pet insurance ensures that your furry best friend receives the best care without draining your bank account. Depending on the policy you choose, it can cover a wide range of services, including consultations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and even rehabilitation therapies. With veterinary costs on the rise, having insurance can truly make a world of difference when it comes to providing your pet with the treatment they need and deserve. 2. Financial Protection from Unexpected Expenses Life loves throwing surprises at us, and unfortunately, some of them can lead to unexpected veterinary expenses. Whether it's a sudden illness or an accident, these unforeseen circumstances can catch us off guard, both emotionally and financially. But when you have pet insurance, you're protected from the financial strain associated with these unexpected bills. With pet insurance, you pay a regular premium that is usually a small amount compared to the potential costs of veterinary treatments. In return, the insurance provider helps cover the expenses related to your pet's healthcare. This financial cushion allows you to focus on your pet's well-being rather than worrying about how to afford their medical needs. With the right pet insurance plan, you can navigate these challenging times with confidence, knowing that your beloved companion will receive the necessary care without putting a strain on your wallet. 3. Peace of Mind in the Face of Uncertainty Our pets bring us immeasurable joy, love, and companionship, but sometimes their health can be unpredictable. No matter how careful we are, accidents can happen, and illnesses can strike without warning. In these moments of uncertainty, having pet insurance can bring invaluable peace of mind. Knowing that you have a safety net in place allows you to make decisions based on your pet's best interests rather than financial constraints. Instead of worrying about the cost of a procedure or treatment, you can focus on what truly matters: ensuring your pet's health and well-being. With pet insurance, you can explore all available options for your pet's care, including consultations with specialists, advanced diagnostics, or surgeries that may have been financially challenging otherwise. 4. Long-Term Cost Savings While pet insurance provides immediate financial assistance during unexpected situations, it also offers long-term cost savings that are worth considering. By investing in pet insurance early on, you can secure coverage for your pet at a younger age when they are less likely to have pre-existing conditions. This can result in lower premiums and broader coverage, giving you access to a wider range of services without worrying about exclusions. Moreover, pet insurance encourages proactive and preventative healthcare. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and early detection of potential health issues can help prevent costly treatments in the future. Many pet insurance policies include coverage for routine wellness care, such as vaccinations, annual exams, dental cleanings, and preventive medications. By staying ahead of potential health problems through preventive care, you can save money in the long run by avoiding more expensive treatments or surgeries down the line. Conclusion Pet insurance is more than just a safety net; it's an investment in your pet's health and well-being. By providing comprehensive coverage, financial protection from unexpected expenses, peace of mind, and long-term cost savings, pet insurance offers incredible benefits for any pet owner. As pet parents, it's our responsibility to ensure that our furry friends receive the best possible care when they need it most. Pet insurance gives us the means to make informed decisions based on their needs rather than financial constraints. So, whether you're thinking of adding a furry member to your family or you already have one, take a moment to explore the different pet insurance options available. As with health insurance for people, the best time to get pet insurance is well before you need it while your dog is in good health and has not developed injuries or issues which may be considered preexisting conditions. By taking this proactive step, you can enjoy precious moments with your beloved companion while having the peace of mind that you're prepared for any situation that may arise. Your furry friend's health and happiness deserve the best, and pet insurance can help you provide just that. Not sure where to start? We've done our research and found The Swiftest to be a great resource for comparing and selecting the best pet insurance plan for you and your furry friend. Check them out and find the perfect coverage that fits your needs. Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, we may receive a commission. Rest assured, the inclusion of affiliate links does not influence our editorial content and recommendations. We only recommend products that we have thoroughly researched and believe can provide value to our readers. The commissions earned help support the maintenance of this website and allow us to continue providing helpful information for our audience. Thank you for your support.
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June 2023 Charity Spotlight The Big Mutt Network The Big Mutt Rescue (TBMR) is a Giant Breed Rescue with a mission: to rescue and rehabilitate abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs, provide them with the love, care, and medical attention they need while working tirelessly to find them forever homes. Based in Arizona and operating nationwide, TBMR strives to be a voice for the voiceless and to educate the community on the importance of responsible pet ownership. By promoting adoption, spaying and neutering, and by providing ongoing support, they are committed to reducing the number of dogs in shelters. Stephanie Campbell, a passionate animal rescuer, founded The Big Mutt Network in 2019, driven by her strong connection to large and giant breed dogs. After rescuing an emaciated English Mastiff, she fell in love with the breed, which further inspired her to foster and later adopt a pair of Great Danes. Seeing the obstacles owners and shelters faced when finding homes for these giants, Stephanie wanted to do her part to make a difference. Consequently, The Big Mutt Network was born to help provide more resources and better opportunities for these big dogs. The Big Mutt Rescue is a dedicated, nonprofit group of animal lovers who believes every dog deserves a second chance at a happy life. Their adoptable mutts live in foster homes, not a shelter. Volunteers assess all adoptable mutts’ individual needs to ensure dogs are placed in the best possible foster home as they wait for their perfect forever home. Foster families (aka Big Mutt Champions) give dogs a second chance at life while awaiting adoption. In addition to providing safe foster homes for mutts in need, TBMR assists with in-home euthanasia services for dogs belonging to elderly and homebound people. The Nolan Beckman Memorial Fund was established to honor The Big Mutt Network’s director’s late son, and through this fund, they are able to help senior citizens provide beloved pets with a peaceful, in-home end-of-life experience. The Big Mutt Rescue also partners with Roswell Correctional Center via the Uncaged Paws prison program in which inmates learn to train dogs who were rescued from high-kill shelters. Using positive reinforcement methods that result in rehabilitation, this innovative program benefits both the dog and the inmate by helping prepare them for life outside of the prison system. The Buddy Fund is a TBMR program created with the belief that all animals should have access to proper medical care. The Big Mutt Rescue collaborates with veterinarians and food banks to help homeless individuals receive medical attention for their pets along with helpful educational resources. The Big Mutt Network needs your help to continue providing care, comfort, and compassion to giant breed dogs. 4Knines is proud to support the work of The Big Mutt Network, and we hope you will consider helping this volunteer-driven nonprofit continue their mission by making a donation.
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Hot Weather Car Safety for Dogs: Just Leave Them Home By Dorothy Wills-Raftery It seems like a logical thing: it’s a warm (not even hot) day out and you want to take your dog along for a ride in the car while you do a few errands or grab a quick bite to eat. You park in a shady spot, crack your windows, and/or leave the car locked with the air conditioning on, because you think you will be keeping your dog comfortable, and you plan on being inside for “just a minute.” However, there are unforeseen or unexpected delays that can happen—and have happened—and during it all, your dog is literally roasting in the vehicle. Let’s run through some scenarios: 1. While you are in the store or restaurant (even a fast food one), it is more crowded than you thought; the check-out line is long, or the cash register isn’t working. Any number of unforeseen things can occur. Now, your “quick minute” becomes 15, 20, or even 30 minutes. 2. You think your dog is fine because you parked in the shade and left the air conditioner running, but your car’s air conditioner malfunctions, or stops working. Now your car, within a few minutes, can become a hot box. 3. You get into a fender-bender in the parking lot or on the way home. Your car can’t run, meaning the a/c cannot work. You have to exchange driver info and wait for the police to arrive, which depending on their emergencies may take time. Once they do arrive, you need to wait for the report and/or ticket to be written up. Meanwhile, your car is sitting there, in the heat. Even in the shade, it does not protect your dog. Not only is your dog stressed from the accident, but now in harm’s way from the quickly rising temperature in the car. Leaving your dog in the car on a warm or hot day can be downright dangerous and even fatal. Depending on the day and temperature, a dog can experience overheating, heatstroke, seizures, suffocation, brain damage, and even death in just a short amount of time. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “The temperature inside your vehicle can rise almost 20º F in just 10 minutes, and almost 30º F in 20 minutes. The longer you wait, the higher it goes. At one hour, your vehicle's inside temperature can be more than 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature. Even on a 70-degree day, that's 110 degrees inside your vehicle!” States the AVMA, “Your vehicle can quickly reach a temperature that puts your pet at risk of serious illness and even death, even on a day that doesn't seem hot to you. And cracking the windows makes no difference.” Leaving a dog in a hot car, states PETA: “It’s like being baked alive. Heatstroke can happen in just minutes, even with the car’s windows partially rolled down. And opening a window slightly won’t help—parking in the shade or leaving water in the vehicle won’t prevent your dog from overheating, either.” Is it Illegal to Leave a Dog Unattended in a Parked Car? According to a 2023 Animal Legal & Historical Center at Michigan State University citation, “The answer to this question, of course, depends on in the state in which you live. Actually, 31 states have laws that either prohibit leaving an animal in confined vehicle under dangerous conditions or provide civil immunity (protection from being sued) for a person who rescues a distressed animal from a vehicle.” What Can I Do to Help Rescue a Dog From a Hot Vehicle? According to The Humane Society of the United States: Take down the car's make, model, and license plate number. If there are businesses nearby, notify their managers or security guards and ask them to make an announcement to find the car's owner. Many people are unaware of the danger of leaving pets in hot cars and will quickly return to their vehicle once they are alerted to the situation. If the owner can't be found, call the non-emergency number of the local police or animal control, and wait by the car for them to arrive. In several states, Good Samaritans can legally remove animals from cars under certain circumstances, so be sure to know the laws in your area and follow any steps required. “States with such laws typically allow rescue of the animal from the vehicle,” also states the Animal Legal & Historical Center at Michigan State University. “This may involve forcibly entering the motor vehicle to remove the trapped animal. Some states limit their ‘rescue’ laws to law enforcement, firefighters, animal control, first responders, or authorized humane officers. Recently, about 14 states have enacted laws that allow any person to rescue a distressed animal.” For more important tips on what to do when rescuing a dog from a hot car, and first aid, please visit the Human Society’s printable flyer. It’s important for not only adults, but also children to understand the dangers of a pet being left in a hot car. The national non-profit animal welfare organization RedRover® kids’ magazine, Kind News, has a FREE downloadable elementary-level Teaching Guide and PowerPoint presentation on, “The Dangers of Dogs in Hot Cars.” This guide covers the topic of how dangerous it is for dogs to be in a parked car on a warm day even with windows cracked while “applying concepts in physics, biology, and mathematics to a real-life problem that occurs in virtually every community.” Bottom line: During the warm and hot months, please leave your dog home, where it is safe and cool. Both of you will be happy you did. 4Knines, a pet-focused business is celebrating 10 years of making durable dog products and giving back to the animal community. (Visit HERE to see a list of their charitable donations.) If you would like to nominate your favorite animal advocacy group or rescue for their Giving Back Program, simply fill out the form HERE and someone from the 4Knines team will reach out to you. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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Senior Dogs Are Golden Treasures By Dorothy Wills-Raftery “Every white hair is one day of experience in being the very best friend you’ve ever had.” - Jaymi Heimbuch Whether you have shared your life with your furry best friend since it was a pup, or you welcomed one into your home at an older age, a senior dog is truly a golden gift. When our dogs age, not only may their muzzles sprout gray hairs, but their activity levels and diets may change, as well as their physical and mental health. Thankfully, along with your veterinarian’s guidance, there is so much we can do to help senior dogs live the best, healthiest, and longest life possible. Games for Senior Dogs Research shows games are a great way to give your dog mental stimulation, which helps promote or maintain cognitive function. Some fun things to do include something as simple as The Shell Game (a/k/a Cup Game), an excellent “nosework” activity where you hide a favorite treat under one of three cups, move the cups around, and let your dog sniff out the treat. Puzzles are also a great and fun brain game. You simply hide treats in the various cubbies and watch as your dog happily paws and sniffs his way through the puzzle to reveal the treats. Aids for Older Dogs Sometimes as our dogs age, they need some extra assistance. Whether it is a lift harness to help take weight off of arthritic legs or adding throw rugs or toenail grippers to help prevent them from sliding on floors, to the use of a wheelchair or a doggy stroller, there are many helpful aids today to ensure your senior dog can still get around and enjoy daily activities. Why Adopt a Senior Dog? Oh, my, for so many reasons! For starters, why not give a dog a loving home where they can live out their remaining days feeling loved, happy, and safe? Sadly, though, senior dogs are not the first dogs folks come into adopt. According to The Grey Muzzle Organization, “When senior dogs enter shelters, their future is uncertain. The adoption rate for senior dogs (7 years or older) is lower than that of all other ages combined: Just over 50% find new homes.” Benefits of Adopting an Older Dog Dogs are so devoted and give us their all—trust, love, companionship—they deserve nothing less in return. Some may find themselves homeless for many reasons, including the passing of their human or their human can no longer take care of them due their own illness or having to enter a nursing care facility. These dogs have spent their whole lives with their human best friend and suddenly find themselves lost and afraid, sometimes winding up in shelters or being euthanized simply because they have nowhere to go. To be able to step in and let that dog live out his/her golden years wrapped in love is such a gift, not only for the dog, but for the gift of joy it will fill your heart. Things to Keep in Mind When Adopting an Older Dog As with adding any dog to your family, when you decide to welcome a senior dog into your family and home, there are some important factors to consider and know BEFOREHAND. Do you have the time to care for an older dog? Are you prepared to take care of the dog if s/he has or develops a health issue, such as cognitive dysfunction, arthritis, cancer, seizures, blindness, renal issues, anxiety, etc. Can you financially afford the care of a senior dog? This includes vet visit costs, medications, supplements, specific foods, items such as dog diapers, lift harness, crate/bed, and car seat liners, and special treatments such as cold laser therapy, acupuncture, water therapy, etc. Will a senior dog fit in with your lifestyle? Keep in mind if you have an older dog, but have a busy, chaotic lifestyle that includes loudness, busyness, very young children, etc., that can cause an older displaced dog to have anxieties, can you adapt it to be suited for a senior dog? And the flip is, if this is your lifestyle, would an older dog actually fit in and keep up with your pace? Or, if you yourself are a senior, are you able to care for a senior dog? Go for walks, bend over to feed, groom, clean up after? It’s also very important to not have unrealistic expectations when you first bring home your senior dog. Patience, love, reassurance, and creating a routine are keys to success. “It’s possible your new old dog will come bounding in, jump on the couch, and settle in like he’s lived there all his life…but don’t be disappointed if that doesn’t happen,” notes Hindy Pearson, a dog trainer providing senior dog care support and author of Grey Paws and All: Helping You Care for Your Senior Dog website. “Your dog has just been uprooted from where he was living and brought into what he may see as a strange and scary environment. Give him time to adapt, and if you need help, contact a certified dog trainer that specializes in working with older dogs.” Did you know that calculating your dog’s age is not just times seven? Check out the new calculator published in the Smithsonian Magazine HERE. A great item for senior dog care includes having a protective car seat and/or bed cover to help protect from possible “accidents.” Check out the line of waterproof and washable covers from 4Knines HERE. 4Knines is also committed to giving back to the animal community and they donate a percentage of each sale to animal advocacy groups. Resources for Senior Dog Caregivers: 🐾 The Grey Muzzle Organization – A national organization dedicated specifically to advancing lifesaving efforts on behalf of senior dogs. They provide funding and resources to animal shelters and rescues groups across then nation. 🐾 Grey Matters Blog – A blog with expert articles on senior dog care, wellness, alternative treatments, end-of-life care, events, and webinars. 🐾FiveSibes™ The Sibe Vibe – “Caring for a Senior Dog” – a two-part award-winning show about caring for dogs in their senior years. Listen to Part I and Part II. 🐾 Grey Paws and All – a website dedicated to senior dog car with Hindy Pearson. It features helpful articles on training, health, and pet loss. She also conducts Zoom sessions to help senior dog caregivers across the globe. 🐾 Grey Paws and All Podcasts – A podcast where experts talk about health and wellness of senior dog care. 🐾 Senior Dog Care Club Group on Facebook – This group shares tips, advice, and offers support for those sharing their life a senior dog. Note: You will need to request to join this group. 🐾 Caring for a Senior Dog – an online resource for parents of older dogs. 🐾 Navigating Your Dear Old Dog’s Golden Years: Dr. Buzby’s Ultimate Guide –Dr. Julie Buzby, a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience caring for older dogs, shares her advice on helping senior dogs live the happiest, healthiest life possible. 🐾 Animal Town Sanctuary – A non-profit rescue organization specializing in senior and special needs dogs. The sanctuary is a permanent home with round-the clock care for the rescue dogs with a staff that is experienced in holistic cancer treatments, reverse osmosis water, specialized diets, natural foods, canine supplements, aroma and music therapy, and end-of-life care. Dorothy Wills-Raftery is an award-winning photojournalist and author. Her canine books include EPIC Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy; the FiveSibes™ Tales children’s books: What’s Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy and Getting Healthy With Harley; and Buddy, the Christmas Husky~Based On A True Holiday Miracle (ArcticHouse Publishing). Her internationally top blogsite is FiveSibes™ , based on her five Siberian Huskies, and includes an online encyclopedia for the Siberian Husky breed. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul & Rosie the Riveter book series, Woman’s World Magazine, AmericanPet Magazine, American Dog Media, Ruff Drafts, The Sled Dogger, and Hudson Valley Paw Print Magazine. Dorothy has been awarded the prestigious Maxwell Medallion by the Dog Writers of America Association for “Excellence” for her writing, photography, and fiction. Her book EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy received the Independent Press Award for “Excellence” in the Reference Book category and the NYC Big Book Award for “Excellence” in the Animal/Pet book category. She was named “Best Author” by Hudson Valley Magazine and all four of her books were named “Best in Print” by AmericanPet Magazine. An official International Purple Day® for (K9) Epilepsy Ambassador since 2012 and a volunteer case manager for The Wally Foundation-Canine Epilepsy, Dorothy partnered with the nonprofit Purple Day® Every Day presented by The Anita Kaufmann Foundation for her #Paws4Purple initiative, and she created the #FiveSibes #LiveGibStrong K9 Epilepsy Online Resource Library—all inspired by her epileptic Siberian Husky, Gibson, in order to help other Epi-dog families find accurate information to help their Epi-dogs. You can follow Dorothy and her FiveSibes stories on the FiveSibes™ blog and on Facebook at FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews, and on Twitter and Instagram (@FiveSibesMom).
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May 2023 Charity Spotlight Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue Meet Matty. Rescued from a Minnesota impound one day before his scheduled euthanasia, Matty is the inspiration for Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue. The mission of Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue (MHSAR) is to bring hope back to the discarded, abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs and cats, and to provide them with all they need in a loving foster family until they find their perfect forever home. To be their voice and right all wrongs. At this writing, Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue’s fosters are caring for a litter of pups who were orphaned at four weeks old after mom was bitten by a raccoon. Thanks to the efforts of MHSAR, Elsa, Batman, Huckleberry, Tarzan, Pippi, James Bond, and Mowgli are safe with fosters as they await their forever homes. Visit the Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue website to learn more about these cuties and many other dogs who are currently available for adoption. With no paid staff or permanent facility, Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue is a 100% foster-based rescue that relies solely on volunteers. Located in the Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minnesota, MHSAR rescues dogs and cats in need from local impounds, from reservations in North and South Dakota and from high-kill shelters as far away as Georgia and Texas. Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue strives to learn all they can about each animal’s likes, dislikes, temperament, and activity level while in foster care enabling them to work closely with potential adopters to ensure a good fit. All animals receive veterinary care and are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and vaccinated prior to adoption. Prospective adopters are educated about the responsibilities and costs of bringing a new pet into their homes and lives. Please consider joining 4Knines in supporting Matty's Heart & Soul Animal Rescue by making a donation or by shopping in their store. All donations and proceeds go directly into the vetting and supplies needed to care for the dogs/puppies and cats/kittens in the care of MHSAR fosters. On that note, foster families are always needed!
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