Danger: Don't feed your dog anything made in China!!

Jerky treat mystery: Nearly 600 pets dead; still no source, FDA says

courtesy the Mawaka family

Toby, a 6-year-old Boston terrier, died in 2012 after his owners say he was sickened by chicken jerky pet treats made in China.

Nearly 600 pets have died and more than 3,600 have been sickened in an ongoing, mysterious outbreak of illnesses tied to jerky treats made in China, federal animal health officials said Tuesday.
Most of the cases have been in dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes — although 10 cats have been sickened, too — after eating chicken, duck and sweet potato jerky treats. The pace of the reported illnesses appears to have slowed, but federal Food and Drug Administration officials are now seeking extra help from veterinarians and pet owners in solving the ongoing puzzle.
“To date, testing for contaminants in jerky treats has not revealed a cause for the illnesses,” Martine Hartogensis, a deputy director for the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, said in the new report. “Despite these warnings, we have continued to receive reports of illnesses in both cats and dogs.”
The new numbers are up from some 500 deaths and 3,200 illnesses tallied in January, but the rate of reports has fallen sharply since then, mostly because two of the largest sellers of pet jerky treats announced recalls tied to the presence of unapproved antibiotic residue detected in the products.
Fast facts on the jerky treat investigation
FDA officials don’t think that antibiotic residue is the big problem that has stumped the agency since 2007, when pet owners started reporting their animals were suffering gastrointestinal and kidney problems after eating the popular jerky treats.

Video: A new safety alert has been issued for pet owners to avoid popular pet jerky treats that could sicken or even kill your animals. TODAY’s Jeff Rossen reports.

Instead, it’s likely that the recall of Nestle Purina PetCare Co.’s Waggin Train and Canyon Creek Ranch treats, plus Del Monte Corp.’s Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Jerky and Chicken Grillers home-style dog treats simply resulted in fewer treats being available. Three other smaller retailers also recalled the treats because of the problem.
In fact, FDA officials remain as uncertain as ever about the source of the problem that has led to reports of illnesses and warnings about the possibility of Fanconi syndrome and other kidney problems in animals that ate jerky treats.
“We still are extensively testing treats for a number of things,” Hartogensis told NBC News. “We do seem to be getting some leads, but we still have a little bit of a ways to go.”
Kendal Harr, a veterinary clinical pathologist who has been tracking the problem, says that the specific compound responsible for the illnesses continues to elude experts.
"I think that what it tells us is that the intoxicant is something that we're not used to dealing with as a toxin in North America," she said.
Now, in an open letter to US veterinarians, FDA officials are asking the vets to track and send detailed information about any animals sickened by jerky treats, including results of blood and urine tests. In addition, the agency is asking vets to send urine samples from suspect pets for analysis.
“This testing will allow FDA to get a better idea of how many of the suspected cases involve Fanconi syndrome, whether or not the pets display symptoms of kidney or urinary disease,” the report said.
About 60 percent of reports cite gastrointestinal illness in the animals, and about 30 percent flag kidney or urinary troubles, the report said. About 135 cases of Fanconi syndrome, a specific kind of kidney disease, have been reported.
At the same time that they’re seeking help from vets, FDA officials are putting out a fact sheet for owners that can be posted at veterinary hospitals, pet supply stores and other sites.
The agency has repeatedly cautioned that the treats are not necessary for a balanced diet, but the warnings stop short of a recall, Hartogensis said. The agency is still validating tests to detect the same kind of antibiotic residue that New York officials found earlier this year.
“If we do find an adulterated product, we will recall them,” Hartogensis said. “In terms of doing a blanket recall, at this point we don’t have enough evidence to do a blanket recall within the authority that we have.”
Because there's no formal recall, it's not possible to list affected brands, although a previous FDA analysis indicated that three of the top-selling brands of jerky treats sold in the U.S. were mentioned in connection with pet illnesses.
That doesn't sit well with pet owners like Robin Pierre of Pine Bush, N.Y., who contends that Waggin' Train chicken jerky treats were responsible for the sudden death in 2011 of her previously healthy 2-year-old pug, Bella, who developed kidney failure. She has long called for FDA to crack down on treat makers — and manufacturers.
"I am disgusted that our government continues to protect corporate American and China," she told NBC News. "They need to start protecting the American consumer so that this does not happen again. As soon as a product is in doubt, a warning label should be placed at the point of sale so that consumers can make an educated choice."
If a pet does become ill after eating the treats, FDA is asking owners to provide detailed information — up to and including results of a necropsy to test an animal’s tissues after death.
In the meantime, officials are trying to reach pet owners who might still have treats on hand to make sure they know about the potential problems.
“Right now, the focus for us is to make the public aware that these cases are still coming in,” she said.
Pet owners can report problems with jerky treats at the FDA's consumer safety portal. 
JoNel Aleccia is a senior health reporter with NBC News. Reach her on Twitter at @JoNel_Aleccia or send her an email.

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The Basics of Dog Daycare from the ASPCA

Daycare for Dogs : An Article from the ASPCA

Dog daycare providers can help you meet your dog’s needs for attention, activity and supervision. They provide a great antidote for bored, lonely or high-energy dogs with busy guardians who work away from home all day and don’t want to leave their dogs alone. Daycare isn’t for everybody—or every dog—but if yours enjoys playing and socializing with other dogs and the cost is appropriate for your budget, it can be a great option for your home-alone pal.
Daycare for dogs works similarly to daycare for children. You drop off your dog in the morning, and she gets to play, socialize, snack and nap while you’re off working. Then you pick her up at the end of the workday. Instead of your dog greeting you workday with loads of pent-up energy, she’ll be pleasantly tired and ready to relax with you all evening.
Most daycares offer half-day or full-day options and everything from daily and weekly to occasional care. Dog daycare is offered at facilities that are specifically designed as daycares as well as at traditional boarding kennels. Most are open 12 hours a day (from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. ), Monday through Friday. Some businesses also offer training, grooming services, dog pickup and delivery, and even transport to veterinary appointments.
Benefits
You could think of most dogs today as “unemployed.” Dogs have been traditionally bred for jobs—typically in hunting, livestock herding, protection or guarding. But their main job today is Couch Potato! Unfortunately, boredom and excess energy are two common reasons for behavior problems in pet dogs.
The main benefits daycares can provide are:

• Relief from boredom
• Relief from loneliness and the anxiety that loneliness can cause in dogs (including separation anxiety)
• Socialization with people
• Much-needed exercise and socialization with other dogs
• Prevention of destructive behavior in the house when unsupervised
• Relief from guilt for pet parents who feel badly about leaving their dogs home alone all day

Is Daycare Right for Your Dog?
Good candidates for daycare are healthy, spayed or neutered and well-socialized dogs who really enjoy other dogs and seek interaction with them at every opportunity. Young dogs often adjust to the daycare environment better than older ones. If your dog is a regular at dog parks, and she plays a lot and enjoys herself there, then daycares are probably ideal for her.
However, some dogs do better sleeping at home alone than spending the day in the company of other dogs. If your dog has ever bitten another dog; is regularly aggressive toward other dogs (snarling, growling or snapping); is fearful, tense or anxious; or tends to avoid or just tolerate other dogs, then daycare is probably not right for her. Hiring a dog walker, asking friends or neighbors to visit your dog in the middle of the day, coming home at lunch, or taking your dog to a boarding kennel may be better options for you.
Other unsuitable candidates for daycare include:

• Unvaccinated puppies
• Females in heat and unneutered males
• Undersocialized dogs who haven’t had sufficient pleasant experiences with a wide variety of other dogs
• Bullies who tend to pick on other dogs
• “Dog dorks” who lack good social skills and whose intensity and energy often seem to annoy or scare other dogs
• “Fun police” dogs (often herding breeds) who run around trying to control the movements of other dogs and interfere with their playing

If you decide your dog is a good candidate and has been evaluated and accepted into a daycare, it’s a good idea for you to stay and observe for a bit the first day and on occasion after that. Also, after the first couple of visits, pay attention to whether your dog seems happy and pleasantly tired afterward or stressed and overwhelmed. Another good way to decide whether she’s enjoying daycare is to observe her closely the next time you drop her off. Does she show any signs of stress or avoidance as you approach the daycare? Is she reluctant to enter? Or does she approach and enter the building looking happy and relaxed or excited?
Please see Canine Body Language for illustrations of dogs that will help you to accurately interpret your dog’s body language and understand what she’s feeling. This interpretation is not as intuitive as some people think—we often forget that dogs are a different species than us! They can express the same feelings we do, but in very different ways.
What to Look For
Staff
Knowledgeable personnel are crucial to a safe, professional and enjoyable daycare business. Ask whether your daycare’s employees have received professional training from seminars or videos by experts with academic credentials in the field of animal behavior, such as those with a doctoral or master’s degree in animal behavior, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAABs) or, at minimum, Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDTs). Your daycare’s employees must understand basic canine communication, including body postures and signals. If employees are unable to accurately interpret dogs’ body language and social communication, then they won’t know what’s going on among the dogs. Lack of such awareness is risky and could be downright dangerous. It could lead to chronic stress for dogs who are scared or overwhelmed but forced to continue to interact with other dogs because the staff don’t recognize their discomfort. And it could lead to serious fights breaking out because employees don’t see tensions rising among the dogs and, therefore, don’t intervene to calm things down. Having daycare employees who don’t understand dog communication would be like trying to run a business with staff who speak a different language than your customers!
You also want to look for employees who are well trained in dog handling and behavior management and who closely monitor dog activity at all times. Ask about the daycare’s relationships with local Certified Professional Dog Trainers. Did the daycare consult with a reputable professional trainer or behaviorist to develop their playgroup guidelines or staff training programs? Ask for details about the facility’s dog handling and training methods to confirm that you’re comfortable with them. You might ask several “what if” questions like: What would you do if my dog barks too much? What would you do if another dog keeps bothering my dog? What would you do if my dog growls at another dog?
A rule-of-thumb for adequate staffing is to have, at minimum, one employee per 10 to15 dogs.
Unfortunately, however, there are no national standards for daycares. The American Boarding Kennel Association offers online, self-study educational materials. They “certify” pet care technicians (CPCT) and kennel operators (CKO), but this doesn’t guarantee that certified individuals understand dog handling and behavior management.
The Facility

• The daycare should be compliant with Occupation Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and regulations, and it should have emergency training and plans. (OSHA is the government agency that oversees safety & health legislation in the workplace.)
• The daycare’s play area should ideally provide 75 to 100 square feet per dog. For example, if there are 25 dogs, the play area should be about 2500 square feet.
• The daycare should be clean, sanitary and organized. It’s advisable to visit it more than once. The first time, you may come at a good or bad time. It should be cleaned daily—or twice daily if the facility also offers boarding. There shouldn’t be any lingering odors, and dog waste should be removed immediately. It should be free of debris and clutter. Ventilation is a critical disease prevention measure.

Enriched Environment
The dogs should have plenty of toys (if toys are allowed), as well as equipment to play with or on or under. They should be given access to safe, comfortable napping spots. Staff should interact regularly with the dogs and walk them outdoors routinely to maintain house training.
Health Policies

• Ask about the daycare’s vaccination policies. Policies and veterinary recommendations are changing across the country, and the facility may have its own. Ensure that the daycare will abide by your veterinarian’s vaccination protocol. Most veterinarians recommend puppies have at least two rounds of their vaccination series before going into daycare. Most veterinarians also recommend that dogs who go to kennels, daycares or dog parks get vaccinated for bordetella, the most common cause of tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) in dogs, at least one week in advance. (Some veterinarians recommend yearly bordetella vaccinations; others recommend biannual vaccinations. Consult with your veterinarian to find out what’s right for your dog.)
• Ask about the daycare’s flea-prevention plan. Canine clients should be required to be reasonably flea-free.
• Ask if employees are trained in animal First Aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Also ask what the daycare’s protocol is in the event of emergency illness or injury. Does someone on staff know how to administer first aid? Will your dog be taken to a veterinarian or emergency hospital if necessary?

Safety Policies

• Toys and objects in the play yard   Toys and other objects a dog may value can be problematic for resource guarders (dogs who are aggressively possessive of things). If the daycare’s intake evaluation screens for resource guarding and doesn’t accept dogs who are possessive of things they value, having toys and objects around during play is probably fine.
• Floors and fencing   The floors should have wall-to-wall, washable rubber mats. The dogs should not have direct access to doors that lead to unfenced outdoor areas. All fencing should be in good repair and high enough to keep dogs safely contained. Fencing barriers should be used when adding new dogs to the main play room to prevent new additions from being mobbed when they first enter.
• Collars   Some facilities remove all collars (flat, choke, prong, martingale, etc.), while others just remove choke chains and prong collars. This is done to eliminate the danger of dogs accidentally choking each other or getting a paw or jaw stuck in a collar. Both have been known to happen.
• Behavior assessments   Many daycares conduct an initial behavior assessment to determine how a dog behaves around other dogs and people. An assessment may give staff a rough idea of a dog’s behavioral tendencies—but it’s important to acknowledge that a single, on-the-spot behavior test can’t definitively determine a dog’s temperament or personality. An assessment should not be used to label your dog or to identify her personality traits. Traits are characteristics and behaviors that are consistent over time and in various contexts, so a short one-time test can’t accurately identify them.
• Comprehensive intake interview with dog guardians   A thorough interview with you is more important than your dog’s on –site assessment, since it covers your dog’s behavioral history. Known behaviors that have occurred over time in a dog’s history provide more solid information about her temperament than an artificial one-time test can. The facility operator should thoroughly question you about your dog’s behavior in various situations, including aggressive and fearful behavior. Paperwork should elicit solid information as well—not just ask cutesy questions about your dog’s favorite color of blanket. Whether she likes pink or blue is not so important if she’s been in three serious fights at the dog park!
• Breed bans   Some facilities ban certain breeds, while others evaluate dogs based on their individual merits. The latter is preferable.
• Dog introductions   Introductions should be done slowly, one at a time, starting with the most congenial dog. Ideally, your dog should first be introduced to one older, socially experienced, gentle female. Several more one-on-one introductions with other dogs should follow. Then more dogs can be added to the group until there’s a small group of about 7 to 10 dogs milling around. Finally, your dog can be taken into the main play room with all the daycare dogs.
• Reproductive status   Many daycares require that all dog clients be spayed or neutered. If that’s not the case at your daycare, verify that employees understand that intact males are more likely to behave aggressively toward each other, and even well-behaved intact males may provoke aggression from other males simply because of their hormones. (Other males can detect an intact male dog’s high level of testosterone, which may excite or upset them.)

Playgroup Guidelines
The structure of your dog’s playgroup is important to her enjoyment and her safety. The safest number of dogs per group is 6 to 10, and it’s important to have dogs of similar size in any group. When there is a 50% or greater difference in size between dogs, the risk of “predatory drift” is higher. (Predatory drift refers to a situation in which a larger dog suddenly perceives a much smaller dog as prey.)
In addition to being structured according to the number and size of dogs, the most successful playgroups are also organized by play styles. This takes some time and skilled observation. For example, German shepherds can be vocal and do a lot of flank-grabbing and hip checking. Their style could be stressful for a shy Lab mix who prefers to lie on the ground and chew on her playmate, or to a spritely Weimaraner who’s bouncy but doesn’t enjoy much bodily contact. Similarly, some bully breeds, such as American pit bull terriers and American Staffordshire terriers, and many Labradors and boxers naturally do a lot of body slamming and wrestling during play, whereas herding breeds, such as border collies, Australian shepherds and Australian cattle dogs, do a lot of chasing and nipping. It’s best to keep these styles separate and allow dogs who share similar play tendencies to play with one another. Some facilities do color coding of their dogs according to personality, history, size and play style. This kind of organization can be very helpful and indicates a high degree of thoughtfulness and thoroughness on the part of the daycare.
How long your daycare allows play sessions to run will depend on the dogs involved, but all dogs in daycare need naps and quiet times between play sessions. Find out how often dogs get time on their own to rest and where dogs are kept when separated for play breaks.
Watch some play groups at the daycare that you’re considering for your dog. Look for appropriate play, such as reciprocity and role changes in wrestling, chasing, mounting, etc. For example, sometimes a dog is chasing, and at other times she’s being chased. Sometimes a dog is on top while wrestling, and sometimes she’s on the bottom. Chances of play becoming tense and tipping over into aggression are higher when the play becomes consistently one-sided, with only one dog always pursuing or on top. Other signs of good play are relaxed, curvy-looking bodies, bouncy movements, play bows (when a dog puts her elbows on the ground and her hind end in the air), rest breaks (often around water stations), brief pauses during play and game changes (first wrestling, then chasing, then playing tug with a toy, etc.), and open-mouthed jaw wrestling.
Signs during play that trouble might be ahead are constant barking, bullying and ganging up, body slamming by just one dog (not reciprocal), stiff bodies and deliberate movements, a dog who tries to disengage and wants to rest but her play partner doesn’t let her, clashing play styles, avoidance, increasing speed and intensity, and any signs of stress or fear. Signs of fear include a tucked tail, yawning, ears down or back, rapid panting, crouching or cowering, and piloerection (raised hackles). Signs that require immediate intervention by staff include stalking, hard, long stares, and repeated scuffles that last more than five seconds.
What to Avoid

• Overcrowding   A good rule of thumb for the optimal size of a dog daycare facility is 100 square feet per large dog, and 50 to 60 square feet per small or medium dog. It’s well documented in psychological research that overcrowding leads to aggression in most animal species, including human beings.
• Limited access   Avoid any daycare that prohibits dog guardians from visiting their dog at any time, with or without advance notice. Also avoid daycares that do not allow you to tour the entire facility and observe playgroups before signing your dog up.
• Unwillingness to meet your dog’s needs   A conscientious daycare will accept and honor your request that your dog receive a special diet or medication that you provide.
• Poor customer service   Loving dogs is not enough. Staff should also be courteous and friendly to human clients!
• Dogs left unattended   Dogs should never be left unattended. If a second person is not available at all times for back-up, the daycare should have arrangements for another employee to arrive quickly if an emergency requires the regular attendant to leave.

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ASPCA: Don't Shave Your Long-Haired Dog!

Three Reasons You Shouldn’t Shave Your Pet

Thursday, July 11, 2013 - 12:00pm

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It’s hot out there! And if your Golden Retriever or long-haired kitty seems to suffer when the mercury rises, you might feel some temptation to break out your grooming tools and give your pets a full shave-down. We get where you’re coming from.
But wait! Put down those clippers! According to experts, you’ll be doing your pet a disservice. Here’s why:

1. While you or I would hate to sport a fur coat in 100-degree weather, your pets’ fur coats are actually providing them with heat relief.

“A dog’s coat is kind of like insulation for your house,” explains Dr. Louise Murray, Senior Vice President of ASPCA Bergh Memorial Hospital. “Insulation stops your home from getting too cold in winter, but it also keeps it from overheating in summer—and your dog’s coat does the same thing.”
Dogs’ coats have several layers, and these layers are essential to your dog’s comfort in the heat. Robbing your dog of this natural cooling system can lead to discomfort and overheating. And keeping your dog cool isn’t the only reason to leave his coat intact, Dr. Murray warns.

2. Your dog’s coat prevents your pup from getting sunburn and helps protect her from skin cancer.

To protect your pet from sunburn and skin cancer, save longer walks for evenings, and consider applying pet-specific sun block to thinly covered areas like the bridge of your dog’s nose, the tips of his ears and his belly, Dr. Murray suggests, noting that pets with thin coats, as well as those with white or light-colored coats, are especially at risk for sun damage.

3. There are better ways to manage your pets’ coats to keep them cool: trimming and brushing.

“It’s OK to trim your long-haired dog’s long hair, such as any hair that hangs down on his legs,” Dr. Murray says. Just never attempt to clip mats off your pet’s coat with scissors, Dr. Murray adds. And if you’ve got a long-haired kitty, leave her coat intact. Instead, brush her a little more frequently during the hot summer months.
Of course, pet parents should remember to keep pets inside with plenty of water during hot days—hydration is key! For more important information on summer pet care, visit our Hot-Weather Tips. Stay cool out there!

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Repost: Robin Bennet on Off-Leash Play - She's the Guru!

Pet Owners: Learn to Keep Your Dog Safe!

by Dog Guru Robin on July 3, 2013

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Dogs that have appropriate outlets for their energy are usually happier, healthier, better socialized, and better mannered dogs.  Dog parks have become a popular way for owners to exercise their pets.  However, for some dogs, dog parks are not all fun and games.  Here are some of The Dog Gurus’ tips for owners who want to make sure their dogs don’t get hurt, seriously injured, or even killed in an off-leash dog park where there are usually no knowledgable or trained pet professionals supervising the play.
Is it right for your dog?   The average age of the dog that enjoys a good romp with a group of other dogs is 6 months to 3 years of age.  Puppies from 3-6 months can definitely benefit, but they can also be more easily traumatized if not put in the right group.  If your dog chooses to avoid other dogs, then an off-leash play setting may not be the best outlet for your dog.  Dogs that enjoy off-leash dog play usually actively seek out the attention of other dogs.  Remember, it’s not about the dog, it’s about the environment.  If your dog doesn’t enjoy off-leash dog play, that doesn’t make him a bad dog. It merely means he’s a dog that would rather participate in some other activity.
What is socialization?  Many people take their dog to off-leash play sessions so they can socialize their dog.  This is a great idea, but remember that socialization is not just about exposure to any and all things in the world.  Socialization means positive interactions are created to help a dog grow, play, and learn. It should not be a random encounter with just any dog or person available.  A bad experience, especially for a puppy under 5 months of age, can have lifelong implications.
Controlling your dog.  Off-leash dog play should not be a free for all.  Dogs do best if they have been taught some basic skills.  You should be able to get your dog’s attention and call him to you even if he’s off leash playing with another dog.  This will give you a good measure of control when he begins to get too rowdy.
Dog play…the good, the bad, and the ugly.  Not all dogs play nicely.  Some dogs play well, but only with certain playmates. Just as with children, you must choose your dog’s playmates wisely.  Educate yourself to learn the difference between play styles and make the best match for your dog.  Remember to separate dogs by size and by play style.  Small dogs should never be placed with very large dogs—even if they play well together.  Small dogs can create a predatory behavior in some larger dogs, which can become deadly very quickly.
Play styles vary.  Some dogs love to chase one another; others love to wrestle and play bite; others like to play gently using their paws like kittens; still others like to body-slam one another.  Put your dog with dogs that have similar play styles.  If your dog is gentle, she will not enjoy playing with a dog who body-slams her.  Both play styles are appropriate, they just aren’t appropriate together.
Too much arousal can lead to aggression.  Dogs need rest periods and breaks even when they are playing.  Teach your dog to come to you periodically and don’t allow the dogs to become overly rowdy in their play.  It looks like fun, but can seep into aggression very quickly.   If the dogs don’t slow themselves down occasionally during play, you need to do it for them by calling them to you and giving them a short 30-second break.  Don’t allow play to go uninterrupted for more than 2-3 minutes at a time.
Introducing dogs to each other.  Always introduce your dog one on one and go at the dog’s pace.  Allow the sniffing to occur since it is a necessarily part of the greeting ritual.  Don’t force a dog to greet another dog if either dog is showing avoidance.  When you show up at a playgroup, have the other dogs move away from the gate before you enter. If owners aren’t there to move their dogs away, just wait until the dogs get bored and go away on their own.  Then bring your dog in when things are more settled.  Watch for any signs of stiffness or nervousness.
Supervision is the key, but you have to know what you are looking for.  Happy dogs have loose, curved bodies. They play with exaggerated, repetitive, lateral movements.  Their bodies remain fluid and loose during play.  They play taking turns (one dog pins another, then they switch roles). They also take periodic breaks.  Nervous or tense dogs are still and rigid.  They play with precise movements that are quick and tight.  They don’t take turns (one dog always seems to pin the other and keep him pinned too long).  Look for common signs of stress to see if any dog is becoming overwhelmed.
Recognizing stress signals.  Here are some common stress signals in dogs.  If your dog starts to show combinations of these at one time, he’s probably becoming overwhelmed.  Lip licking is an easy-to-recognize signal that occurs when a dog flicks his tongue in and out of his mouth.  Yawning is not usually a sign of contentment as much as it is a sign of nervousness.  Half-moon eye is when you see the whites of the dog’s eye around the outer edge of the eye.  If your dog is repeatedly clawing and/or jumping on you in a panic-stricken sort of way, he’s asking for help.  Don’t make him “just deal with things.”  You need to assess the environment to see why the dog is so frightened.
Be your dog’s advocate.  Don’t be afraid to remove your dog from a group if the play seems inappropriate.  Ask questions and ensure those supervising the dogs have experience.  Not all play is good for all dogs and it’s up to you to make sure your dog is having a good time and learning good behaviors.
Committed to keeping your own dog safe? Take the Pet Owner’s Off-Leash Play Safety Pledge. It’s free!  Help spread the word on how to keep dogs safe!

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How To Break Up A Dog Fight

Dr. Sophia Yin, DVM, MS

Posted May 02, 2013 in Dog Behavior

Dr. Sophia Yin gives some sage advice on breaking up a tussle between dogs. For more from Dr. Yin, find her on Facebook or at drsophiayin.com!
If you have a dog and he goes to the dog park, lives with doggie housemates, or otherwise socializes with other dogs, chances are that at some point you may need to break up a spat. These may range from low-level altercations with no real contact to a no-bites-spared brawl. So what should you do? First, realize that regardless of the amount of noise, most fights between unfamiliar dogs at the dog park or first fights between housemates are spit and drool matches. When bites are involved during these fights, dogs generally bite and release. So in the majority of cases we do not need to worry about prying the jaws open or getting dogs to actually release.
Instead, our major concern is just getting the dogs apart and to do so without getting bitten. The number one way to avoid being bitten is to avoid trying to grab the head or neck area. Frequently while trying to grab the front end or getting in the between the dogs, the humans accidentally get bitten. Or in the heat of the moment a dog actually turns and redirects aggression to the person pulling them away.
The safest method to get the dogs apart is to grab them by the rear end and quickly pull them away.  In other cases, because of your positioning in relation to the dog or because they are moving around too quickly, you may need to shove one away by placing your foot on their rib cage and pushing. This is safer than bending over and trying to push with your hands. It may also allow you to use your hands to grasp the other dog if you don’t have someone else to help.
Other methods for separating dogs include spraying them with water, placing a board or object between them, or banging a noisy object near them. These techniques are all meant to distract them. Other surprisingly benign distractions may work too, says Melissa Morris, a dog trainer who recounts the case of her mom’s dog.  “Her shepherd, Ruby, attacked a visiting yellow lab.  Ruby grabbed the lab's neck and wouldn't let go.  My mom was yelling at Ruby.  My brother-in-law was there and punched Ruby in the head, trying to get her to let go.  All that did is hurt his hand! My mom was holding a newspaper and lightly hit Ruby on the head with it (newspaper was not rolled up).  That distracted Ruby and she let go.”
In another situation Melissa recalls, “When my neighbor's pit bull attacked the chow that was walking by their house and wouldn't let go, they tried yelling, kicking the dog, turning the hose on him, none of that worked.  But when they opened the car door and said, ‘Let's go bye bye, he let go and jumped in the car.’

These two situations highlight that creativity may win over force. Also consider using a spray deterrent such as citronella (Direct Stop or Spray Shield) or pepper spray. They can work in some cases too. Just remember—in all cases avoid actions that will cause the dog to redirect it’s aggression to you or even unintentionally lead to a bite.
What to Do Once the Dogs Are Apart
Once you have the dogs apart you should pay attention—does your dog want to keep fighting or does he immediately calm down or try to get away? The one who wants to continue fighting will require more work to modify the behavior in the future. In either case, you’ll want to understand why a fight occurred instead of just assuming it was a fluke or hoping the same type of situation won’t occur again. A majority of the dog aggression behavior cases involving bites that I treat have a history of getting into low level spats which over time developed into more dangerous fights. Many fights can be prevented simply by noticing when one dog is tense around another and calling the two dogs apart before there’s trouble and then rewarding your dog for good behavior.
To learn how to recognize signs that your dog is anxious and may be ready to get to a fight reach Chapter 1 in this free online book: Low Stress Handling and Behavior Modification of Dogs and Cats. To learn how to teach a really good "come when called," read this blog and watch this video.

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Cesar Millan on Nuisance Barking

This is a repost from Cesar Millan.

Three Keys to Stop the Barking

By Cesar Millan
It is completely natural for dogs to bark, and it’s one of their most important forms of communication after energy and body language. Dogs will bark as a warning, to protect their pack and territory. They will also bark to express excitement.
Those forms of barking are rarely a nuisance and don’t last long. That is why nuisance barking almost always has the same cause and the same solution. When a dog barks excessively, it’s telling you that it is bored and is looking for stimulation or a challenge.
Inevitably, excessive barking indicates there is a problem with the human, and not the dog; there is something not balanced in the pack, so the dog’s needs are not being met. The barking is the only way the dog has to tell you something is wrong.
A barking dog needs Exercise, Discipline, and then Affection, in that order. Exercise and Discipline will provide the physical and psychological stimulation that your dog craves. Affection — but only when your dog is in a calm, submissive state — will reinforce the behavior that you want without rewarding the behavior that you don’t.
I’m sure you’ve seen it countless times — somebody with a small, excited dog that won’t stop barking, who then picks up the dog to try to stop it. Unfortunately, this is exactly the wrong approach. The attention and affection from being picked up tells the dog, “I like what you’re doing right now.”
This is unintended positive reinforcement, and it only takes a few times to train a dog that its barking is something you want. But it doesn’t only happen in the above scenario. How many of you come home to be greeted by your dog’s excited jumping and spinning and barking? And how many of you immediately give affection in return for what you interpret as happiness?
This is one of the most difficult things for dog lovers to grasp. When a dog returns to its pack, they are not greeted with excited barking and jumping. Sometimes, there will be sniffs and tail wags, but most of the time it’s no big deal when a dog comes back to the pack. Unfortunately, we humans tend to make a big deal out of coming and going from home, and this puts your dog in the wrong state of mind.
If you greet your dog in an excited manner, then she will come to expect your return to be a time of excitement. This means that, while she’s waiting for you to come back, she will anticipate that excitement, and become frustrated and bored. Now, if you also make a big deal before you go, you’ve left your dog in an excited state as well. This is the perfect formula to create an excessive barking problem.
The solution is more simple than people think. It begins with providing your dog plenty of exercise via the walk, along with discipline by giving him jobs to do and commands to learn. But, most importantly, it requires that you do not reward unwanted behavior, particularly excitement, with affection.
Don’t worry. Your dog won’t think you’re mean if you aren’t petting her or giving out treats 24/7. Your dog wants to earn your affection. Allowing her to do that, and to see your happiness is, to your dog, the biggest reward of all.

Read more: http://www.cesarsway.com/dogbehavior/dogbarking/Three-Keys-to-Stop-the-Barking?utm_source=CMI_FB&utm_medium=Post&utm_campaign=5.29.13#ixzz2UmHHO0pa

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How Do I Know If Dog Play is Healthy?

This is a repost.  The Doggie Den thanks the author, Casey Lomonaco!

 It's Playtime! 6 Signs of Healthy Play in Dogs

How can you tell when that display of teeth means fun, not business? Here are a few training tips.

Casey Lomonaco  |  Jan 16th 2013  |   34 Contributions

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Last week, I shared some of the training tips I give to clients who are seeking appropriate playmates for their canine besties. This week, I'll talk about how to recognize signs of healthy play in dogs.
First-time pet owners are often in for a small shock the first time they see their dog actually play in the classroom. "OMG! He is growling, and that dog just bit his neck! That other dog over there is HUMPING another dog! Wait, my dog just bit the other dog in the neck, too! This is too aggressive. I'm uncomfortable."

Dog play can look like fighting to the first-time owner. Best friends play by Shutterstock

Let me get one thing straight: Dogs don't "do" Legos, video games, or Barbies. They jump, chase, bite, growl, bark, and wrestle. Many of the things that happen in play may look like aggression, and it is true that play can escalate into aggression rather quickly if left unchecked.
So how can you tell when that display of shiny teeth means fun instead of business? Here are a few signs of healthy play to look for.

1. Reciprocity and role reversal

"I scratch your back, you scratch mine" is the mantra. I like to see frequent role reversal in play with friendly dogs -- I chase you, you chase me. I tackle you, you tackle me. I bite your neck, you bite my neck.
If I consistently see one dog tackling another and the other dog is not offered the opportunity to tackle back, it is often more bullying than play, and the owner of the dog who is tapping out on the ground needs to step in.

Tag is a great game, as long as the dogs take turns being chased. Dogs play in water by Shutterstock

When it comes to chasers, you have some dogs that only like chasing and do not like being chased. This can be a problem for the playmate, who says, "Hey, I want to chase, too!" If the chase-ee is always trying to get away from the chaser, you should definitely intervene.

2. Take frequent breathers

I also like to see frequent, self-imposed breaks. "Breathers" are just that -- seconds-long pauses where each dog gathers her wits before re-engaging in play. Breathers don't have to last very long, and then the dogs will reinitiate with one another.
If dogs do not give these frequent self-imposed breaks to one another, it is a good idea to step in and make them do so before releasing them back to play; just ask for a few simple behaviors and then release your dog to join the fun. I find that humans often have to do this when two friendly dogs first meet, but that the dogs quickly learn to regulate themselves after minimal intervention.

3. Happy dogs have Jell-O bones

"Jell-O-y" is my uber-scientific technical term for the body language of happy dogs. When dogs enter the dog park with stiff tails and stiff bodies, they are asking for trouble. If one dog looks like he has a vibrating coat hanger stretched straight up through his tail, the "play" interaction will likely not be very enjoyable for anyone.
There is a looseness in the body language of happily engaged dogs: Tails are swishy, tongues are lolling, bodies are wiggly, eyes are sparkling.  Much as play is a topic worthy of its own book, so is canine body language.  My friend Carol Byrnes, owner of Diamonds in the Ruff training center in Spokane, has two great CD-Roms on canine body language, What Is my Dog Saying? and What Is My Dog Saying at the Dog Park?  The latter is a must-review if you want to learn more about the mechanisms of dog body language as it relates to canine social interactions.

Loose canine body language means the play is fun, not serious. Dog friends play ball by Shutterstock

4. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise

Every time I see a dog enter the dog park on a tight leash, eyes bulging, panting and out of control like he hasn't had adequate exercise in ages, I cringe. If your dog comes in like a freight train, it's not exactly safe for the other dogs who may be near the tracks!

5. Go with the flow

Dogs who are playing well are essentially going with the flow. You will want to see nearly constant, nearly fluid movement. Watch for changes or disruption in the flow -- maybe a higher- or lower-pitched vocalization than during the previous play.

Is this game about to turn serious?

Similarly, there is a difference between a "breather" (where dogs typically have very soft eyes and open mouths, tongues lolling out) and a visual lock-on, where the dogs stop playing and one or both will get stiff and stare. This is a signal for you to step in and quickly diffuse tension by creating space for the dogs. If the "chase-ee" has previously been running with a happy, loose tail, but you see it go between her legs and tucked firmly against her belly, step in and help her before things go wrong.

6. Smart owners make happy dogs

By far the best sign that play will go appropriately is when you carefully select your dog's playmates, teach yourself about play and body language, and know your dog well. Some dogs, as they get tired, become cranky and have less patience in play. Others take progressively more and longer breaks until they are sleeping.

Happy dogs are those who are well-matched playmates. Schnauzers with Frisbee by Shutterstock

Know your dog, know the dogs your dog is interacting with, and have a plan in place. What are potential conflict triggers for your dog? Do you have an intervention strategy planned, and if so, at what stage will you implement it?
For more tips on how to ensure you and your dog get the most enjoyment possible from your playdates, check out my article "Dog Park Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts from a Trainer." 

How does your dog play healthily at the park? At home? Let us know in the discussion below!

Posted in ASK A TRAINER, TRAINING, BEHAVIOR, DOGSTER TIPS, GOOD ADVICE

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The Best Way to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

This is a repost from Dr. Jon's Newsletter:
http://www/petplace.com

Oral hygiene is essential to your dog's overall health.  Oral disease is very common in pets. In fact, the American Veterinary Dental Society reports that by the age of three, oral disease is present in up to 80 percent of dogs.  You can significantly reduce your dog's risk of getting oral disease by establishing a healthy oral-care routine early in your pet's life.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a dog's teeth should be brushed daily; however, because many dogs initially resist daily brushing, most people don't do it that often (if at all). But experts say some form of regular brushing is better than no dental care at all. Brushing at least every other day is enough to prevent the buildup of tartar on your dog's teeth.

Taking care of your dog's teeth doesn't just prevent bad breath. Poor oral hygiene can start a domino effect of health problems for your dog.  Built up bacteria becomes plaque, which eventually becomes tarter.  Periodontal disease is a direct result of bacteria that lives in tartar.  It can lead to a variety of problems including tooth loss, pain, gum disease and bad breath.  It can also contribute to liver, heart and kidney disease.

Protecting your pet from the pain and health risks that come from poor dental hygiene is very simple, and it saves you the time and expense of additional vet visits.  The best way to do this is to brush your dog's teeth regularly.  I understand this isn't always easy and it may take your dog some time to get used to this routine.  To make it easier I recommend introducing the toothpaste and toothbrush slowly and rewarding your dog for any progress he makes.

When brushing your dog's teeth, it's very important not to use human toothpaste.  It can make your dog sick and even poison him.  You want to be sure to use a pet-friendly toothpaste and a toothbrush that's sized to fit your dog's mouth.

If you're ready to get your dog into this healthy habit, check out Pet Product Advisor's Kissable Toothpaste & Toothbrush Combo. I've seen how much time and stress these products can save.  The vanilla-flavored toothpaste is delicious enough that dogs actually enjoy the taste.  The three-sided toothbrush is just the right shape for a dog's mouth because it targets the outer, top and inner parts of the teeth at the same time.  That means you can brush your dog's entire mouth in less than a minute.



This powerful combo works together to remove food and bacteria from all angles of your dog's teeth, so you can rest assured his mouth will stay clean, healthy and fresh. Check it out: www.petproductadvisor.com/doggietoothbrush

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How Smart is Your Dog?

This is a repost from Dr. Jon:

Dogs are very smart animals.  In fact, some scientists estimate that the average dog is as smart as a 3-year-old child.  That means he is smart enough to understand more than 150 words, smart enough to count to five - and smart enough to outsmart the humans! (No doubt you've already learned that lesson.)

Yes, dogs are very smart - and some breeds are thought to be smarter than others.

Psychologist Stanley Coren, a leading canine researcher and author from the University of British Columbia, studied which breeds are the smartest. He analyzed data from 208 dog obedience judges in the USA and Canada to see where each breed fell on average.  Check out the results below to see if your dog made that list:

1. Border collies
2. Poodles
3. German shepherds
4. Golden retrievers
5. Dobermans
6. Shetland sheepdogs
7. Labrador retrievers

(Of course, we can't forget that these are just averages - every individual dog is different. We've met some really intelligent “dumb” breeds, and some very silly “smart” ones!)


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Dr. Jon on Leaving Your Dog Alone (Repost)

Do you feel bad when you have to leave your dog home alone?  Many people do.  It's only natural. But life goes on and sometimes we don't have choice.

It's a busy world.  And like most of us, you've got places to go, things to do and people to see.  Whether you're off to work, school or shopping, or out for a nice dinner and a movie, chances are you spend a lot of time away from home.  And sadly much of the time, your dog cannot come along.

Dogs have very little to occupy their time while you're gone, especially if they're the only pet in he household. (We're their entertainment.)   Some dogs seem content to nap away their day while you're away.  Other dogs have a much harder time coping with the situation when they're home all alone.  These dogs can suffer from boredom, stress or separation anxiety.

So how do you know if your dog is unhappy about being left alone?

Some dogs make it quite obvious by leaving a trail of destruction behind.  You could return home to find your furniture or personal belongings chewed up, the garbage ransacked, paper or pillows chewed to shreds, or you may find that your dog has vomited, urinated or defecated in the house.  Some dogs eat everything in sight when you're away, and others become almost anorexic.  Some dogs groom themselves incessantly to calm their nerves.  Others vocalize their dissatisfaction by howling, whining and barking while you're away.  (And if you have neighbors nearby, you're sure to hear about it!)

If your dog is bored, anxious, depressed or destructive while you're away, "environmental enrichment" can help.  When you give your dog plenty of fun things to do and see, his unhappy time alone can be transformed into a very satisfying day.  Here are some suggestions:

• Hire a dog walker
• Invest in doggy day care
• Leave plenty of fun toys for your dog (like puzzle toys that you fill with treats)
• Tire him out with some active play before you go
• Try something that will really hold his interest, like the Dog Sitter DVD.

If you haven't seen the Dog Sitter DVD yet, you really must check it out.  It is amazing!  This DVD was made especially for dogs, to entertain them for hours on end while you're away.  It features lots of animals (birds, cats, squirrels, raccoons and more) outdoors in their natural environment.  Your dog will think he's outside with his new friends joining in the fun.

Dogs just love this DVD.  It really holds their interest and the stereo soundtrack even has some sounds that only your dog can hear.  And once you find out which tracks are your dog's favorites, you can even personalize his viewing adventure using the continuous loop scene selection feature.

When your dog is stuck inside all alone, the Dog Sitter DVD can bring the outside world in.  Lots of people swear by it, and I can certainly see why.  My staff and I tried it on our own dogs and they were GLUED to the TV set!

Until next time,

Dr. Jon

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Dr. Jon on Leaving Your Dog Alone

Below are Dr. Jon's suggestions for alleviating separation anxiety.  He publishes on petplace.com. https://bay002.mail.live.com/default.aspx?id=64855#n=880813660&fid=1&mid=d0b00541-6ecb-11e2-a191-00215ad80204&fv=1

But at The Doggie Den we have an even better idea: ENROLL YOUR DOG IN DOGGY DAYCARE!  The Doggie Den

I've heard of lots of creative ways to ease your pets' stress, like leaving the TV or radio on for "company" when they are home alone. Unfortunately, that could actually be doing more harm than good. Studies have suggested that TV and radio can actually CREATE stress for our pets because of the drastic changes in programming and the random mix of musical styles.
Think about it - how scared would you be if you suddenly heard gunshots, sirens, or dogs barking?
The TV and radio certainly create "noise," but they don't necessarily create a relaxed environment.

Dog owners sometime ask me, “Does music soothe pets the same way it can relax people?" The answer is "yes" - but it depends on the music.

Studies have been done to examine the relationship between music and stress, and some of the results might surprise you. All music is not the same…and neither is the effect on animals. Classical harp music is used around the world to help alleviate stress in dogs, cats, chimpanzees and other animals. Even animal shelters are installing sound systems and using music to create a more serene environment.
In particular, studies show that dogs and cats seem to show lower levels of stress when exposed to classical music. Cats will relax in front of the speakers when classical music is playing, and many dogs will actually bark less - especially when listening to the music of Bach.

That's why I want to tell you about the Music My Pet CD.

This remarkable "Classic Cuts" CD was developed for the specific purpose of calming our pets. It uses the sounds that have been proven to calm dogs, cats and other household pets. Music My Pet was created by the same folks that brought you Disney's award-winning Baby Einstein series for kids, so this is music for pets at its very best.

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Brrrr - It's Cold Outside and Your Dog Feels It Too!

Here's what Dr. Jon has to say about keeping your dog safe and happy in the dead of winter:

The reality is that, for most of my US readers winter is here and it is not leaving anytime soon. 
So what can you do if you are stuck indoors with your dog?
Well, believe it or not this can be a GREAT opportunity to have fun with your dog and pamper them at the same time. Today I'd like to share some of my favorite suggestions to make this cold, dreary season into one that you both look forward to. Take a look:

1. Help your dog relax with a soft, warm new bed. Shopping for a bed? Here are some tips on what to look for in a bed before you shop. This is interesting because there are really important features that I hadn't thought of. Go to How to Choose a Good Dog Bed.
2. Soak up the sun by opening the shades or curtains and giving your dog a nice place to nap.
3. Don't keep them outside too long. It is extremely cold in many areas of the country. Frigid temperatures pose a real risk to dogs, especially when frostbite becomes a possibility or if they get wet. Keep them dry and limit outside time during temperature extremes. Be especially careful on windy days as wind chill can greatly increase the risk of injury. For more information go to: How Does the Wind Chill Affect Pets. You'll be surprised about what you'll learn in this article.
4. Keep things active. Dogs want and need exercise all year round. Physical activity is good for the muscles, allows your dog to expel excess energy, keeps him mentally stimulated and helps prevent boredom.  When he does come in, dry his paws with a soft cloth. This will keep your home clean and get rid of snow, ice and salt that may otherwise get tracked in. 
5. Have fun! Just because it is winter doesn't mean you can't still play games. Here are some very cute ideas. Go to: Beyond Snowballs - Winter Games to Play with Your Dog. 
6. Be safe, not lazy. When it is cold, many pet owners are tempted to let their dogs "out" on their own. Bundle up and take him out on a leash as usual. Allowing your dog to go out unsupervised is a common way for dogs to end up lost or injured. It is really common for dogs to be let out and get hit by a car when it is cold (and their owners don't want to take them out).
7. Make sure your home is safe. Keep objects your pet may chew and ingest out of their reach. Keep toxins (such as anti-freeze) safely put away. Prevent exposure to all human medications.  

Lastly, take time to spend with your dog. Brush him, comb him, curl up with a book or watch a movie with him. Remember, you are your dog's best friend.  

Until next time,
Dr. Jon


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Dr. Jon on Your Dog's Dry Winter Skin

Ever had a bad hair day? How about a bad hair season?

Believe it or not, some dogs experience discomfort and frustration every winter because of their fur and skin. The cold, dry air of winter can give your dog flaky, rough, painful skin. This in turn can lead to everything from a dull coat to scratching and even hot spots or skin lesions.

Your dog doesn't have to summer just because of the weather. Stop winter in its tracks by taking some time to prepare your dog for the season. Today I'd like to share some tips that can help alleviate these symptoms.

First things first, remember that a major factor in irritated skin is dry winter air. As soon as temperatures start dropping, a humidifier can help prevent symptoms. (As a bonus, this can also help protect the humans in the household from similar problems.

But what about times like now, when it's already in the middle of winter? Is it too late to help? Don't worry, your dog isn't doomed to suffer for the next several months. You can help him right now too! Keep these things in mind if your dog has dry, itchy skin:

Rule out health problems: Even though flaky skin and a dry coat are common during winter, they can also indicate a more serious health problem. If you notice these symptoms, the first step should be to have your vet rule out any medical issue.

Bundle up for walks: Some dog owners dress up their dogs for fun, but during the winter months your pooch will actually benefit from wearing a coat during walks. This will not only keep him warm, it will also protect him from the effects of the dry frigid air. This is especially important during windy days when wind chill significantly increases the risk of frostbite.
Groom regularly: How frequently do you brush your dog? If your answer is “not often,” it's a good idea to start grooming your dog more. Brushing your dog's fur stimulates the production of the very oils that keep your dog's skin moisturized. It also evenly distributes those oils throughout his coat, leaving it shiny and healthy. Be careful though; more grooming does not mean more bathing! Frequent baths wash away the same healthy oils that help your dog's skin stay healthy, so don't bathe your dog more than once a week unless recommended by your vet.
Rethink their diet: One of the most common causes for dry skin is something most people don't consider: their dog's diet. Poor nutrition can lead to a dull coat and dry skin. You might think your dog is eating right, but poor skin is one very big sign that their diet needs an update. Make sure that your dog is getting a diet rich in proteins, fatty acids, and other nutritional needs. Consider switching to an all-natural dog food that will provide your dog with all that they need to be healthy.
 Reprinted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter
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