The Doggie Den Welcomes Nicole Bonin

The Doggie Den is excited to welcome Nicole Bonin to our grooming team.  She joins Shawna Rubin who has built a loyal, enthusiastic grooming clientele at The Doggie Den.  Nicole graduated from the MA School of Pet Grooming in Medford, MA in 2005.  Then she moved to North Carolina where she worked in two different shops as an all-breed groomer.  Now she has returned to MA. to work at The Doggie Den.  Customers say her clipping and scissoring is the best.  Welcome Nicole.

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The Fabulous PET ROCK FESTIVAL at Quinsigamond Community College

Come to this years PET ROCK, and get your personalized, signed copy of FOUR SEASONS DOG CARE BY SUSAN LADUE!  Sunday Sept. 9th, noon to 4pm at the Information Tent located just as you enter the festival.

Or get your copy online and Susan will sign it at PET ROCK or at any weekday at THE DOGGIE DEN.  

BOOK DESCRIPTION:  As each season gives way to the next, your dog's needs change, and if you don't pay attention to the right things, life can get complicated. For example, fall is a time when people change the antifreeze in their vehicles, so you need to look out for polluted puddles from which your dog might drink. Similarly, spring brings allergies and itchy skin, but you can avoid expensive vet visits by putting your dog on an antihistamine.

"Four Seasons Dog Care" is a compact compilation of what you should think about, do, and watch out for as the seasons change. Enjoy it as an informative cover-to-cover read, or use it as a handy reference manual. It will help you and your dog make smooth transitions from each season to the next, so you can enjoy the opportunities that the changing weather brings.

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Four Seasons Dog Care

Come to PET ROCK FESTIVAL, Sunday, Sept 9th, noon to 4 pm and Susan will sign your copy of Four Seasons Dog Care.  It's at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester.  Susan'll be at the Information Tent just as you enter the festival. 

DESCRIPTION: As each season gives way to the next, your needs change and so do your dog's! And if you don't pay attention to the right things, your faithful companion can complicate your life when you least need it. For example, fall is a time when people change the antifreeze in their vehicles, so you need to look out for polluted puddles from which your dog might drink. Similarly, spring brings allergies and itchy skin, but you can avoid expensive vet visits by putting your dog on an antihistamine. "Four Seasons Dog Care" is a compact compilation of what you should think about, do, and watch out for as the seasons change. Enjoy it as an informative cover-to-cover read, or use it as a handy reference manual. It will help you and your dog make smooth transitions from each season to the next, so you can enjoy the opportunities that the changing weather brings.

Or buy your copy on amazon.com now and bring it to Pet Rock for Susan to sign.  Click here for more information about Pet Rock.

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Steven May on Summer Heat

Hot Enough for You and Your Dog?

By Steven May of the Daily Growl for Pet News and Views
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the first six months of 2012 was the hottest on record across the United States, a full 4.5 degrees hotter than the long-term average.  June alone saw 170 U.S. cities tie or break record-high temperatures. Scientists anticipate continual hot temperatures throughout the remainder of summer and beyond so keeping our dogs safe in the heat is of the utmost importance.

Steven May and his dog

To get an idea of what life is like for your dog take off your shoes and take a little walk down a hot sidewalk. Although dogs have pads on their feet, sizzling hot sidewalks, which reach much higher temperatures than the air, can burn their pads. This is just one of the dangers facing our dogs when the thermometer rises but by taking a few, common-sense preventative measures, you can help keep your canine companion cool, comfortable and safe through the “dog days” of summer.
Provide a shaded and well-ventilated area for outdoor exercise
Just as a cold winter shouldn’t eliminate your dog’s exercise needs, neither should a hot summer.  If your backyard is the primary spot for exercise, consider a mister or even running a sprinkler during exercise time. Choose a dog park that has ample shade or adjust your dog’s exercise schedule to take place after the sun goes down and the temperature begins to drop. Unlike humans a dog’s sweat glands, which help regulate temperature, are only found on their noses and pads of their feet.  So it’s essential that we don’t expose our dogs to temperatures that they are not equipped to handle. And while this goes without saying; water-water-water.
Brushing for Ventilation
Mid and long-haired dogs have the added burden of wearing a coat during the summer. While a visit to the groomer can take care of some of the excess fur it’s also important to brush our dogs at least five times a week. This provides extra ventilation for their skin.  And don’t shave your dog. 
Summer is more than just heat
The summer months also bring an assortment of new plant growth, some of which can be detrimental to our dogs. Of particular concern are foxtails, most typically found in weedy areas which sprout in the spring and turn brown in the summer when the temperature heats up. Foxtails can attach themselves to our dog’s feet, inside their nose and even ear canals. Foxtails can cause extreme discomfort so it’s important to check your dog daily for any intruders.
An Ocean of Lotion
There are many pet-specific sunblocks on the market which should be used in much the same manner as we use them. Don’t think that you’re sunblock will be right for your pet. Many contain chemicals that can be harmful to a dog if ingested. Apply the sunblock frequently to sensitive areas such as the nose, tips of the ears and any area that has little or no hair coverage such as the groin and the belly.  And dress your dog in a T-shirt for extra sun block protection.
Your Car  is a Furnace
On an 85-degree day it only takes about 10 minutes for a car’s interior to climb over 100 degrees with cracking a window doing little to help. Once a dog’s internal temperature reaches 109 degrees heatstroke, and possibly death, is the result. Never leave your dog in an unattended vehicle on a hot day. Ever.
We all know how good it feels to down that ice cold beverage or take a shower or swim on a hot day. And it’s no different for our dogs. As owners it’s our responsibility to not just watch for the symptoms of overheating, such as excessive panting and drooling, staggering and extreme weakness, but to avoid putting our dogs in situations where the heat could potentially hurt them.
About the Author
For 35 years, Steven May has provided his expert pet advice to both the veterinary industry and the general public. The former editor of Vetz Magazine, May now heads the pet website The Daily Growl and has over 113,000 followers on his daily pet advice  Facebook page.

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Dr. Jon on Chosing the Right Breed for Your Living Space

Here's Dr. Jon's take on what you should think about when choosing a new dog.  See his website at:
http://www.petplace.com.

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs need a huge house with a big yard. The size of your home is certainly a factor when choosing a dog that's a good fit for your lifestyle, but having cozy quarters doesn't mean that you need to remain dog-free. Today I want to discuss the real issue of your home's size as it relates to your choice in dogs, and to offer a couple of breed recommendations.

Some dogs aren't a good fit for apartments for several reasons. Their sheer size alone might be a factor; many apartment complexes do not allow dogs over 35 pounds. Dogs who require a lot of activity, such as collies, will likely be frustrated and feel anxious without room to run around. Still other dogs are very intelligent and easily get bored if they are not given enough mental stimulation... and boredom leads to destructive behavior! And other dogs are a no-go because they are very vocal or protective, barking loudly at the slightest noise or movement from neighbors. Giving your dog a safe and responsible home includes one where they will be enjoyed and respected, not constantly scolded or crated for being loud.

Some dogs, though, are an amazing fit for these smaller living spaces. They are the perfect low-key companions for apartment dwellers. Check out these three breeds who can live quite happily and comfortably in an apartment:

Pug - This small breed is a very popular choice for smaller living spaces. Their short fur makes grooming easy, although you must be sure to keep an eye on shedding. At about a foot in height and 20 pounds, they need minimal space and are typically thrilled to cuddle on the couch with you. Pugs also don't need much exercise - in fact, their short faces can make breathing difficult if they exercise too strenuously, so be sure to keep an eye on them if accessing your apartment requires going up and down lots of stairs.

Greyhound - Although the greyhound is a relatively large dog - weighing an average of 65 pounds and standing at 2.5 feet tall -they are relatively low-maintenance. Their soft, short fur is very simple to groom and these big cuddlebugs are frequently called “couch potatoes” for their low-key personalities. They do require regular exercise, however, and must have access to a securely fenced area for running at least a few times a week. If your landlord does not permit dogs over 35 pounds, consider checking out other sighthounds such as whippets or Italian greyhounds; these gentle, quiet, and loving dogs are a wonderful addition to any apartment.

Miniature Schnauzer - The miniature Schnauzer is a loving, faithful dog who thrives on human interaction. The smallest of the Schnauzer family, this miniature breed weighs only about 15 pounds. Unlike the standard and giant Schnauzer, these miniatures don't mind spending time alone. Their reputation as a child-loving dog makes them a good option for a family.

There are many more breeds that are great for living in apartments. You can learn more about apartment-friendly breeds at this link. Once you know what kind of puppy will do well in your home, don't forget to read up about everything you need to know about choosing and getting a puppy right here. And finally, when you're ready to find your new companion, check out this link to find a new pet near you.


There are many adorable dogs out there, but don't be swayed by a cute face. A pet is for life so carefully consider their needs from puppyhood to maturity.

Until next time,

Dr. Jon

   
P.S. - What if you're on the other end of the spectrum and have a lot of room? Maybe you are interested in discovering which dogs will be best for your children or senior family members. You can find the perfect dog to fit your lifestyle by reading all about different breeds right here at this link.

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Canine Reiki Treatments from Mary Oquendo

Mary Oquendo is the owner of Pawsitively Pretty Mobile Grooming Salon in Danbury, CT and has been in the pet industry for the past 10 years.  She is one of only three Certified Master Pet Tech Instructors. In addition, she is a Certified Canine Specialist. She is a feature writer on a trade blog. She teaches pet first aid on a national level and is a featured speaker at educational trade conferences. Mary also trains people to become pet first aid instructors and offers professional consultation to pet professionals. 

Mary is a Reiki Master trained in the Usui System of Natural Healing. She works with animals in their home in the Danbury, CT area. She also offers Attunement classes. Check her website for upcoming dates.

What is Reiki?
Reiki is an ancient healing system in which the practitioner channels the Universal Life Force energy that surrounds us into the pet in need. Mary uses a gentle hands on the body or just above in the pets physical aura. She also offers long distance Reiki, which is used in hospitals and shelters.

Benefits of Reiki
*Deep relaxation. It reduces stress and tension.
*Renews strength and vitality.
*Improves body functions.
*Strengthens the immune system.
*Relieves the effects of chemotherapy.
*Speeds healing of wounds, fractures, and surgerical procedures.
*Relieves aches and pains.
*Removes energy blocks.
*Eases their transition to the Rainbow Bridge.

Reiki is a valuable component of an overall balanced health maintenance program that includes traditional veterinary care. Mary encourages an open dialogue between you and your veterinarian regarding her offerings. She emphasizes that her services supplement veterinary care but do not replace it.

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Excellent Hot Weather Advice from the ASPCA

 I'm reposting this from http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/hot-weather-tips.aspx

 Hot Weather Tips

We all love spending the long, sunny days of summer outdoors with our furry companions, but being overeager in hot weather can spell danger, ASPCA experts warn.
"Most people love to spend the warmer days enjoying the outdoors with friends and family, but it is important to remember that some activities can be dangerous for our pets," said Dr. Camille DeClementi, Senior Toxicologist at the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. "By following a few simple rules, it is easy to keep your pet safe while still having fun in the sun."
Take these simple precautions, provided by ASPCA experts, to help prevent your pet from overheating. And if you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, get help from your veterinarian immediately.

Visit the Vet 
A visit to the veterinarian for a spring or early summer check-up is a must. Make sure your pets get tested for heartworm if they aren't on year-round preventive medication. Do parasites bug your animal companions? Ask your doctor to recommend a safe flea and tick control program.

Made in the Shade
Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot outdoors. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, be careful to not over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.

Know the Warning Signs 
Symptoms of  overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. They can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

No Parking!
Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle. "On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time-even with the windows open-which could lead to fatal heat stroke," says Dr. Louise Murray, Vice President of ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. Also, leaving pets unattended in cars in extreme weather is illegal in several states.

Make a Safe Splash
Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool-not all dogs are good swimmers. Introduce your pets to water gradually and make sure they wear flotation devices when on boats. Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from his fur, and try to keep your dog from drinking pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals that could cause stomach upset.

Screen Test 
"During warmer months, the ASPCA sees an increase in injured animals as a result of High-Rise Syndrome, which occurs when pets-mostly cats-fall out of windows or doors and are seriously or fatally injured," says Dr. Murray. "Pet owners need to know that this is completely preventable if they take simple precautions." Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.

Summer Style
Feel free to trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog: The layers of dogs' coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. And be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals.

Street Smarts 
When the temperature is very high, don't let your dog linger on hot asphalt. Being so close the ground, your pooch's body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum.

Avoid Chemicals 
Commonly used flea and tick products, rodenticides (mouse and rat baits), and lawn and garden insecticides can be harmful to cats and dogs if ingested, so keep them out of reach. When walking your dog, steer clear of areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. Keep citronella candles, oil products and insect coils out of pets' reach as well. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect your animal has ingested a poisonous substance.

Party Animals
Taking Fido to a backyard barbeque or party? Remember that the food and drink offered to guests may be poisonous to pets. Keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as they can cause intoxication, depression and comas. Similarly, remember that the snacks enjoyed by your human friends should not be a treat for your pet; any change of diet, even for one meal, may give your dog or cat severe digestive ailments. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and products with the sweetener xylitol.

Fireworks Aren't Very Pet-riotic
Please leave pets at home when you head out to Fourth of July celebrations, and never use fireworks around pets. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma to curious pets, and even unused fireworks can be hazardous. Many types of fireworks contain potentially toxic substances such as potassium nitrate, copper, chlorates, arsenic and other heavy metals.

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Don't Shave Your Dog!

Excellent advice from the ASPCA:  Click here for ASPCA blog.

Nearly everywhere in America, this summer is a scorcher, and we know that as a responsible pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your best four-legged friends cool. So when you look at your Pomeranian, Golden Retriever or long-haired cat wearing a thick, fluffy coat, you might feel tempted to break out your grooming tools and give him a serious hair cut. But hold those clippers! 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. Your dog’s coat prevents your pup from getting sunburn and helps protect her from skin cancer.

So what can you do? “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.

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.

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.

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 Amazon.com has a huge selection of dog equipment at discount prices.
 Click here to shop for dog equipment on Amazon.com

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Dr. Jon on Pet Food Recalls

Dr. Jon's website: https://www.petplace.com

Today I want to talk about a very important topic: pet food recalls. As you may realize, sometimes items must be recalled from the market for safety reasons. Everything from jars of baby food to furniture has been recalled as a way to keep customers safe. When it's food that's being recalled, it's usually because it has been tainted by something that can make us sick. And just as our food can be contaminated with salmonella or E. coli bacteria, it's important to understand that your pet's food can become tainted, too.  To read more click on Dr. Jon's website and search pet food recalls.

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4th of July Tips from the ASPCA

Fourth of July Safety Tips

For many people, nothing beats lounging in the backyard on the Fourth of July with good friends and family—including the four-legged members of the household. While it may seem like a great idea to reward Rover with scraps from the grill and bring him along to watch fireworks, in reality some festive foods and products can be potentially hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center offers the following tips:

• Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets. If ingested, the animal could become very intoxicated and weak, severely depressed or could go into a coma. Death from respiratory failure is also a possibility in severe cases.  To read more, check out the ASPCA Website.
  

© 2012 ASPCA. All Rights Reserved.

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Confusion About Flea and Tick Preventives

In the spring of 2009, the EPA announced that it would increase its scrutiny of spot-on flea and tick medications for all pets. The closer look included all of the popular brands including Advantix, Frontline Plus, and Bio-Spot. They took this step because the number of complaints about pets becoming sick from these applications had increased considerably, and there have even been reports of serious illness leading to death.

Ever since, people have wondered whether to stop using these products. Since the announcement 3 years ago, additional research has yielded some answers:

1. Cats are more susceptible to becoming ill from spot-on flea and tick treatments than other pets.

2. The vast majority of reported illness has to do with misuse of the products. That is, people did not follow the directions on the packaging. For example, repeated application over a given 30 day period is dangerous.

3. Products intended for dogs must never be used on cats, for they can cause death.

4. A veterinarian must always be consulted before using spot-on flea and tick treatments on very young, very old, sick, or pregnant pets. These groups are more vulnerable to problems than mature, healthy, non-pregnant pets.

5. When dogs and cats are treated according to the package labeling, there are significantly fewer problems.

6. When dogs and cats became ill even though the product was applied according to labeling, the effects were relatively mild. They included skin irritation and stomach upset and usually resolved in 24-48 hours.

The ASPCA Poison Control Center says the basic message is that people should continue using spot-on flea and tick medications and follow the directions on the packaging. If your pet is in any of the above-mentioned risk groups, do not use the treatments until you have checked with your veterinarian.

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Reblog: Finding a Pet Friendly Nanny for Your Kids

5 Rules for Finding a Pet Friendly Nanny

When parents begin their nanny search one of the things they should take into consideration is if they have or plan to have a family pet. Whether it is due to allergies or a fear that they’ll have to care for the family pet, for some nannies working in a home with a pet is simply out of the question.
If you’re considering hiring a nanny and have a family pet, you’ll want to be sure to find a nanny that’s comfortable around animals and willing to provide any necessary pet care. To attract a pet friendly nanny, follow these five rules:  To read more check out the Find a Nanny website.


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Here's What Dr. Has To Say about High-Tech Dog Toys

The toy aisle in your local pet supply store is probably filled with high-tech goodies that might leave you wondering what's best for your dog. Some of these products are really complex with lights, noisemakers, and even computerized programs. Are they worth it? Which is the right choice for your pet? A lot of clients will ask me what I think and I'm happy to share my experience.To read more go to Dr. Jon's website: http://www.petplace.com/dog-health.aspx and search for "high tech toys."


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Summer Time!

It's summer and time for lots of outdoor family fun with your dog. Beach cookouts, little league games, leisurely yard work, or just lying in the hammock... there are lots of activities where your dog can joyfully join you.  

Dogs can tolerate reasonable amounts of heat, but when it gets above 80 degrees there are a few things to remember.

ALWAYS carry water, even if you're just going out to the yard.  There are lots of portable dog drinking bottles available at pet stores, or just make sure there's cool water available in a dish in the shade. Check the dish each time you go out with your pup.

NEVER leave you dog alone in the car.  Ever.  Not even with the windows cracked.  Dogs can only release heat through panting, and then  in limited amounts.  They can release some heat through the pads of their paws, but they don't sweat.  The interior of your car will quickly heat up to 100 degrees and more, and your dog will suffer heat stroke, which can kill in a matter of minutes.  If you can't leave the ac on for your dog, she or he is better off at home, enjoying your favorite chair while you're busy!

When BOATING, make sure your pup has a life jacket designed for a dog his or her size.  Even dogs that swim well, like spaniels, labs and goldens, need life jackets in case they're confused when they fall in the water.  Doesn't matter if you're taking a rowboat or a cabin cruiser... suit up the pup!

At the BEACH, keep your dog leashed under the umbrella unless you're taking him to the water to play.  Put ice cubes in a container at home before you leave, place them in a cooler, and offer the  container to pup as the ice melts.  S/he will need to cool down his or her core temperature several times during your beach day.  A dip in the surf helps, as does a cold drink.

WALK your dog in the early morning and evening when it's coolest.  Don't exercise him or her at all if the temperature in the sun is above 80 degrees.  For potty needs, a quick trip outside on a leash will do until the sun goes down.

When HIKING in very warm weather, try to limit your dog's amount of off-leash time.  Some dogs will run until they're seriously overheated and then have trouble cooling off.  If there's a safe body of water on the trail, encourage pup to have a plunge and a drink.

PUPSICLES: A cheap and easy way to cool your dog down.

Fill an ice tray with low sodium beef or chicken stock and freeze. Put the cubes in a container in a cooler, and feed them to her one at a time.

Some dogs (especially the larger breeds) will crunch them right up, while others will lick them.  Either way, the dog cools down.  Pup will also need plain water in addition to his treat.

Dogs love sugary drinks but it's best not to use them for pupsicles.  Sugar's even worse for dogs than it is for us!

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Tick Season

                                                                 Eeww, gross

It's April and the weather is slowly warming. In fact, it never stayed very cold for an extended period of time this winter, so you dog owners know what that means. Here come the ticks, and this year there'll be an army of them.

Tick season: that time of year when bloated little arthropod vampires get warm and hungry and feast on cattle, wildlife, humans, and DOGS. But ticks aren't just disgusting, they're also dangerous.When ticks bite wild animals such as deer or squirrels, they take in the bacteria these animals may harbor and can pass them along to their next host. Some bacteria can cause diseases in dogs (and in people) - dangerous, debilitating, and sometimes even fatal diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The problem is, it isn't easy to prevent those tiny, persistent and eerily aware critters from finding your dog. Ticks can sense trace gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the air, alerting them to the presence or approach of a warm-blooded mammal. Many ticks congregate in places where mammals tend to pass, such as in the bushes and trees along the edges of hiking trails, or even in tall grass or leaf piles in your own backyard. Ticks know where your dog is going. Creepy, right?

But don't be afraid. A two-pronged approach to tick management can keep your dog (and you) safe and, if not always completely tick-free, at least protected from the dangerous diseases ticks spread. Just follow this plan: prevention and prompt removal.

Precautions begin with keeping your dog well-groomed. Regular brushing, combing and bathing keep your dog's skin and coat strong and healthy. Ticks tend to prey on weak, dirty, sick animals with broken skin. A healthy, well-groomed dog is more attractive to us but less attractive to ticks, who prefer a dirty dog with a poor immune system for a host. To keep your dog's skin (and overall health) in even better shape, make sure s/he eats a balanced and high-quality diet, especially one containing esential fatty acids (EFA's) either in his/her food or as a supplement. EFA's help strengthen and improve skin and coat quality.

I recommend using a tick control product on your dog, though some people feel the treatments (particularly the popular spot-on variety) are too strong and potentially dangerous to your dog's health. In a later post I'll talk about natural repellents and remedies. But for the moment, let's just say that if you take your dog into woodsy areas often, a monthly spot-on product is a great choice. Ask your veterinarian about the best and safest tick prevention products, because he or she will consider your dog's health, age, size, and also the risk of ticks where you live.

Finally, keep your yard tick free. Keep woodpiles and brush piles far from the house and out of the fenced area where your dog plays. Keep your grass mowed short and trim the longer grass that grows along fences and around garden borders. If ticks don't have good, sheltered spots to hang out and await your dog's approach, they'll go somewhere more tick-friendly.

Prompt removal is essential because the longer a tick is attached to your dog, the greater the chances that it will transmit a disease. Most tick bites don't result in disease, but the chance that they could makes it important to remove the little blood suckers without delay.

Every time you go into tall grass, shrubs, or wooded areas with your dog, do a tick check as soon as you get home. Work through your dog's coat with a fine-toothed steel fleas comb or, if your dog has a short coat, just use your hands to look and feel all over for suspicious bumps and creepy-crawlies. Look carefully in the areas ticks like to frequent, such as behind or inside ears, around the rear end under the tail, or on the chest and belly where there is less hair and the skin is easy to puncture.

If your see a tick, use rubber gloves or a paper towel to protect your skin and remove it immediately. Drop in into a small cup of alcohol to kill it, then flush it down the toilet. If you think the tick has been attached for a day or more and you want to know if it might be carrying a disease, wrap it in a moist paper towel, put it in a small jar, and call your vet to see if s/he thinks you should have the tick tested.

Grasp the tick as close as possible to where its head is attached to your dog. Pull straight up, not to the side. The tick may come all the way out, or it may leave its mouth parts behind. Don't worry if it does. Pull out whatever you can, then swab the area with disinfectant and dab on some antiobiotic cream. Your dog's body will eventually push out the foreign parts, but keep an eye on the area. If it starts to look infected - red, swollen, filled with pus - give your veterinarian a call.

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Debarking Your Dog: Don't!

Every once in a while I see something about dogs online or on TV that makes me crazy. For example, I never watch America's Funniest Video's because the one time I did, they showed shots of dogs having weird accidents. It looked to me like the dogs were hurt, though not seriously. I was furious, then I saw that they do the same thing with children! There were scenes of toddlers falling down steps and, in one case, into a swimming pool. The audience thought it was hilarious. So a parent can earn thousands of dollars showing their kid having a funny accident. In several of the entries, the child was crying at the end. Guess I shouldn't be surprised that dogs were fair game.

Then the other night I saw a major network feature on debarking dogs. At first I thought it couldn't be what it sounded like. But... lest we not have a clear picture, the producers showed dog after dog having their vocal cords cut or otherwise damaged, as with a laser. Per the usual network practice of "balancing the story", we heard from those who were in favor of this practice, as well as those who were against. Didn't help, as far as I was concerned. One of the dog owners was a Sheltie breeder who had had consistent complaints from neighbors because of barking. So she debarked her dogs! I watched 20 seconds of Shelties in her back yard opening their mouths to emit a sound that resembled a sick cough. Daphne was appalled. She slunk out of the room, looking over her shoulder at me in unmistakable rebuke. I felt ashamed for humans.

Debarking involves cutting the vocal cords, or otherwise impeding their vibration. The dog is anesthezied, then an incision is made under his/her chin. It only takes minutes. Whoopee for efficiency. And the neighbors don't complain... how nice. This practice is barbaric!! It reminds me of another century when prison guards cut peoples' Achilles tendons to prevent them from bolting. It's just one example of the lengths people will go to to avoid the work of training their faithful companions. People will use electric shocks; collars that spray stinging fluids like citronella in their eyes and mouth; prong collars with barbs that dig into the flesh of the dog's throat and damage his/her esophagus; and now surgery, rather than teach the dog how to live with humans. Sorry, but there's no excuse. It's sheer laziness, not to say the need for instant gratification. Would you use a citronella collar to stop your 3 month old daughter from crying??? Would you put barbs around the neck of a toddler who constantly pulls away from you and gets herself into trouble?

I know, dogs are not children. But they are mammels with nerve endings and they hurt. It's just that they don't always show that they're in pain. So a Rottweiler with a prong collar who's dragging his master down the street doesn't look like he's hurt. If it hurt, he would stop, right? WRONG! Lots of dogs don't make the connection between pain and bad behavior. Almost all dogs can make a connection between good behavior and rewards. So why doesn't the guy teach his Rottweiler to walk nicely by giving him lots of hugs and treats when he does well?? It's just too hard, I guess. And then there's the issue of guys and macho dog breeds, but we'll leave that for another post.

The argument was made that some people would have to put their dogs down if they didn't cut their vocal chords. One judge even ordered a dog owner to have it done or euthanize the dog. Thank heavens, that judge no longer issues such orders because someone showed him exactly what's involved, and it repelled him. He now orders people to train their animals or give them up for adoption. Anyway the argument is ridulous. If you can't or won't take the time and effort to teach your dog not to bark, then give your dog to someone who will. Get help!! (from a trained canine behaviorist). It'll cost maybe the price of a dinner for two and a movie.

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Owning a Dog Daycare

Pet owners live busy, crowded lives, which has given rise in recent years to a growing dog daycare industry. Dog lovers in search of a new career direction often dream of opening a dog daycare business. The intent of this article is to suggest what to think about if you have such a dream.

Getting Started
It's Easy and It's Not Easy

If you want to start a dog daycare business, you need to know what it's been like for those of us who've been there. This is my start-up story.

Fifteen years ago I was a Human Resources Manager in a Fortune 100 company that had recently been acquired by another Fortune 100 company. The shrinking inventory of high tech hardware and service companies showed signs of more contraction; and I was tired of managing layoffs for my employer. I wondered how I could earn a living while having fun.

I'd always loved dogs and I wanted to start my own business. After months of networking with dog breeders, veterinarians, dog walkers, kennel owners, and dog groomers, I knew I had found the right general category; but I also knew I didn't want to follow in the footsteps of anyone I'd talked with. In every instance, their businesses involved experiences during which dogs are generally unhappy. "No, no," I kept thinking. "I want the dogs to have fun with me."

One sweet summer night, I sat on my friend Lilly's porch in affluent Newton, MA., mulling over the possibilities. "Too bad you can't make money just playing with peoples' dogs," she mused. "I can!" I thought. "I'll take care of peoples' dogs during the day. Think of the busy, well-to-do dog owners around here!" Tire their dogs out, so owners don't have to feel guilty about being too exhausted to play with a pet who's been cooped up all day. Send them home to be with their beloved people at night. Socialize them so owners can be proud of how well they behave with other dogs and with new people.

So, a business where dogs are free to play in an interesting, safe environment, under the supervision of experienced professionals. My dream come true. But there were obstacles. Wrung out from years of serious commuting, I wanted to work close to home but not in my home, the latter being a retreat where I relished the peace and quiet. My departure from corporate life had left me with a severance package, so I bought a small house in a business zone which I fitted up with attractive, dog friendly rooms that could be cleaned and disinfected, top to bottom. I researched materials and equipment on the internet, bought supplies, and sent out grand opening announcements.

Two days after sending the announcements, I had neighbors who already hated me. On opening day, the Zoning Enforcement Officer came to tell me I couldn't do business in my new location, though it was commercially zoned. I had met with him and other town officials before opening and the consensus had been that nothing in the zoning laws excluded my business. So I requested a hearing with the Zoning Board.

The night of the hearing I arrived to a throng of angry residents packing the hall outside the hearing room. Standing room only. When I tried to brief the room on the measures I'd taken for noise and nuisance control, I was shouted down. The Board told me to close up shop.

I hired a lawyer, appealed and won, a process which required a few thousand dollars not provided for in my business plan. Nevertheless, I was on my way... to other valuable lessons. I had not realized how badly behaved other peoples' dogs can be (one's own are angels, of course). I guess I assumed everyone trained their dog enough so that he or she was easy to live with. Not so! In my first couple of years, my charges stole my lunch, knocked me down, barked 'til my ears rang, played keep away when I needed to get hold of them, and pooped indoors in spite of hourly forays into a fenced yard. At the end of the day, after cleaning every room of the house by myself, I went home numb with exhaustion. 70-hour weeks were routine. I remember those years as a time of aches, pains, bills, bandaids, and bruises.

In two years the dogs outgrew the den I'd created in 1998. So I leased a facility in the same neighborhood and set out to grow the business. I bought lists of licensed dogs and their owners from near-by town halls and ran a regular ad the local newspaper. I published online ads and coupons. I was a guest speaker in Rotary Clubs and church groups. I had a "dogs and kids together" gig that I schlepped to elementary schools. Still the business grew slowly, while expenses skyrocketed with the new lease, additional employees and new equipment. I'd added a grooming salon in the new building, but getting profitable was an uphill battle as clientele got to know us. A year into the new building a recession hit. We went into debt to pay the bills, thinking we'd dig out in a year or so. Things did improve by 2004 so we paid down debt and expanded. For years we fought to grow back a financial "cushion", and we were getting there when the wheels fell off the world's financial cart in 2008. Business declined and we hung on, once again taking on debt.

Here’s a balance sheet for my 14 years in the dog daycare, grooming and training business:

I’m my own boss. Everything is my responsibility, including employee screw-ups and events entirely out of my control.
I get to meet interesting dog owners from all walks of life. Dog owners idealize their pets and often make inadvisable and/or unrealistic demands.
I can de-stress whenever I wish by playing with/cuddling dogs. Every day is full of pee, poop and vomit.
My work life can be shaped consistent with my skills. Revenue goes in cycles but bills are constant.  Even with the best planning, much of the time there isn’t enough money.
There are lots of supportive, understanding customers. When things go wrong customers can be unreasonable and you just  have to “”eat it.”
Customers tend to be loyal once they’ve found a place where their dog is happy. Disgruntled employees can start a similar business near-by or work for your competitors and poison the well.
My business has a positive presence in town, people know me, and I feel proud. Every town charity expects a contribution regardless of the economic environment.
Every day brings many funny, uplifting doggy shenanigans. People often don’t train their dogs so the latter can be out of control during playtime.
My employees go the extra  mile when I ask them to. Employee drama goes with the territory.
Now that there’s enough money to hire capable staff, I’ve greatly reduced the number of hours I’m actually at the shop and can do business-enhancing work like increasing the quantity and quality of our on-line presence. Dogs in groups can and will hurt you, almost always unintentionally.  There are bites, bruises, knock-downs, and even hearing loss from loud barking (wear hearing protection for the loudest parts of the day.)

Today, I can pay myself, my employees, and my bills. We break even or make a little money. I wouldn't trade my situation for anything. I left a six figure salary for "getting-by" status, and I've never looked back. If I were younger I would grow The Doggie Den to where I could franchise it. Close to retirement age, I'm happy with smaller horizons. I'd do it all over again in a New York minute.

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Natural Remedies for Kennel Cough

The usual remedy for attacks of kennel cough in dogs is a course of antibiotics.  However, there are other possibilities, particularly those recommended by veterinarians who practice homeopathy.  Below are some suggestions.

Nine Safe Remedies for Kennel Cough

1. Nosodes. A nosode is a homeopathic remedy derived from a pathological specimen. Nosodes stimulate the natural immune system to react against specific diseases. Kennel cough nosodes are particularly effective.
2. Esberitox. This is a fast-acting Echinacea that I have found very effective in reducing the virulence of bordetella infections.
3. Vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is an antiviral and E provides immune system support.
4. Oregano oil has antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
5. Astragalus is an herb used in Chinese medicine to enhance the immune system, support lung function and stimulate the regeneration of bronchial cells.
6. Raw garlic and olive leaf are natural antibacterial and antiviral agents.
7. Raw honey will ease the discomfort of coughing, and certain herbs will soothe and naturally suppress a cough, among them licorice root and marshmallow.
8. Essential oils can be used to help a pup with kennel cough breathe easier. Oils of eucalyptus, lavender and tea tree have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Chamomile has a calming effect.
9. Slippery Elm can help soothe sore and irritated throats.

As always, you should talk with your holistic veterinarian about natural remedies and the doses or applications most appropriate for your pet.

Reprinted from webmed.com


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Kennel Cough Vaccination for Dogs

It's March and we're finding a significant number of kennel cough cases in MA.  At the Doggie Den we want to make sure we're not part of the problem so we closed down for a long weekend and disinfected the facility from stem to stern. 

We require that our canine guests be vaccinated against kennel cough, but the vaccine is not 100% effective.  Some doctors claim it's unsafe as well as ineffective.  Below is one such opinion from Dr..
Patricia Jordan who practices in North Carolina.  At The Doggie Den we do not share this opinion, but we think it's worth noting.

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Bordetella or Kennel Cough is commonly required by boarding kennels and veterinary hospitals. These vaccinations are delivered to a staggeringly large percentage of dogs and the reason is not to protect your dog: the reason is to protect these facilities against liability.
The proprietors who push for these vaccines may be assuming more liability than they can handle and the stakes are very high. The truth is, the vaccines are not only ineffective but they are far from safe. Yet they are routinely given to combat a self limiting disease that amounts to as much danger to your dog as the common cold does to you.
What is interesting is that when you bring your dog to the vet for his Bordetella vaccination, he will have already been exposed to the natural flora: all animals are exposed to both Bordetella and Parainfluenza prior to vaccination. It makes little sense to vaccinate an animal for something he has already been exposed to.
There are at least forty agents capable of initiating Bordetella so vaccination might appear to be prudent if it weren’t for the fact that only two of these agents are contained in the intranasal vaccine. This poor percentage truly makes the Bordetella vaccine a shot in the dark. The lack of efficacy is well summarized by noted immunologist Dr. Ronald Schultz: “Kennel Cough is not a vaccinatable disease”.
Despite the lack of any real effectiveness, the Bordetella vaccine is routinely given and touted as safe, especially in the intranasal form. Make no mistake however: the dangers and misinformation surrounding this seemingly innocuous spray are just as tangible and frightening as any other vaccination. A major problem with the Bordetella vaccine is that it is part of a combination vaccine. Unbeknownst to most pet owners, the Bordetella intranasal spray also contains Parainfluenza (the vaccine for which is not surprisingly, just as ineffective as Bordetella). The problems with the Parainfluenza portion
are threefold.
First, there is a real danger of dangerous immunological overload when vaccinations are offered in combination. Second, like Bordetella, most dogs have already been exposed to Parainfluenza, making the necessity of vaccination questionable. Third, the Parainfluenza vaccine is just as ineffective as the Bordetella vaccine because the vaccine does not provide antibody against Parainfluenza where it is most needed: on the mucosal surfaces.
Other dangers associated with the Bordetella vaccine are obviously not far removed from the dangers associated with any other vaccination. Although Bordetella is a bacterial vaccine, we now know that bacterial vaccines present the same threat as Modified Live Vaccines. Modified Live Viruses from human vaccines are now known to become incorporated in the genes of the host and can shuffle, reassert, and reactivate thirty or more years after vaccination.
Bacterial genes are capable of the same activity, lurking in the genetic makeup, waiting to replicate and awaken. The intranasal Bordetella vaccine has
been known to activate a previously asymptomatic collapsing trachea and disrupt phagocytic activity which can progress to pneumonia. The toxins from the vaccine will also kill the ciliated lining of the trachea, creating a denuded area susceptible to anything coming down the windpipe. Perhaps collapsing trachea, irritable tracheas and pneumonias are all complications of Bordetella and the Bordetella vaccine.
Vaccination of any sort also elevates histamine which can promote cancer, chronic inflammation and loss of tolerance. In general, all vaccination creates immune dysregulation and is responsible for a vast array of pathology. The Bordetella vaccine can wreak havoc outside the body as well. Bordetella will shed from a vaccinated host for seven weeks while Parainfluenza will shed for a week. This means that every vaccinated dog is a walking dispenser of potentially damaging bacteria.
While the risk to other dogs is obvious, it should be of little concern to healthy dogs because Bordetella is generally a self limiting disease. What you might find surprising is that the shed bacteria is a risk to other animals…and to people. The reason we now have a feline Bordetella (and not surprisingly, a feline Bordetella vaccine), is likely thanks to the widespread use and subsequent shedding of Bordetella from vaccinated dogs to cats sharing the household. If this seems hard to imagine, consider how dogs first fell victim to Canine Influenza.

Canine Influenza was initially documented in racing greyhounds. It is worth noting that many of these dogs shared tracks with race horses: race horses who are routinely vaccinated with Equine Influenza. It is not a stretch to predict Bordetella will infect gerbils, hamsters and rabbits in the near future and it is with certainty that the vaccine manufacturers will be well rewarded with the continued fruits of their canine Bordetella vaccine.
Not surprisingly, humans are not left out of the equation. Ruth Berkelman MD (Former Assistant Surgeon General, US Public Health Service) writes: “The potential for both exposure and for adverse consequences secondary to exposure to veterinary vaccines in humans is growing. Enhanced efforts are needed to recognize and to prevent human illness associated with the use of veterinary vaccines”. Dr. Berkelman noted that pertussis an whooping cough-like complaints in children followed exposure to Bordetella bronchiseptica from the Bordetella vaccine and it is no coincidence that Bordetella bronchiseptica and whooping cough pertussis are very closely related. Interestingly, the rate of whooping cough is highest in highly vaccinated populations.
Immunocompromised humans and animals are at an elevated risk of infection from these canine vaccines. There is a recently reported case of Bordetella bronchiseptica pneumonia in a kidney and pancreas transplant patient who had to board and subsequently vaccinate her dogs at a veterinary clinic while she was hospitalized. Vaccines contain contaminating agents including mycoplasmas which are also very communicable to humans and other mammals.
In the end, vaccination for Bordetella is at best fruitless and at worst, a pathetic fraudulence at the hands of veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers. It is up to you whether or not your dog receives this vaccination and that is not overstating the obvious. Sadly, most pet owners are aware of this but choose vaccination because they feel they are at the mercy of boarding kennels, training schools and veterinarians.
Patricia Monahan Jordan is a graduate of the North Carolina College of Veterinary Medicine. She practiced conventional veterinary medicine for twenty years and founded six different veterinary facilities in North Carolina. Dr. Jordan has traced the paths of immunopathology to vaccine administration and uncovered the cycle of disease and the endless cycle of disease management that results from vaccine administration. Dr. Jordan can be reached at www.dr-jordan.com.


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