Hershey and Coco the Long-Haired Miniature Dachshunds
Here are my two dachshunds when they were puppies. Hershey and Coco (the one sleeping). They are both long-haired miniature dachshunds. The other photo is Hershey now at the age of 15. He has a ramp to walk up onto the sofa and he likes to have the blanket wrapped around him. Submitted by JJ. @ weinerdoggy.com
How Do I Know if My Dog Likes Daycare?
You’ve finally signed up for doggy daycare. You go to work with a smile because you know Fido is in good hands at his new “school.” All day long you look forward to picking up your furry companion who, you imagine, will be jumping for joy to see you and can’t wait to tell you all about the amazing time he had playing with his fellow doggy pals. But how do you really know if your pet likes daycare? This article will discuss how you can pinpoint if your dog likes his daycare center.
Key Considerations of What Doggy Daycare Offers to Suit Your Dog
Avoiding the Anxiety of Separation
If your dog is afraid to be left alone at home or in a car, he may have trouble adjusting to the anxiety of being placed in a new environment. Dogs with separation anxiety show stress when left alone, such as pacing or vocalizing. Some dogs may even destroy things while they’re separated from their owners. If your dog shows these signs when you leave him alone at home, he might not yet be ready for daycare.
Socialization with Other Dogs & People
Dogs who enjoy socialization often interact well with other dogs and people when placed in an unfamiliar situation. They’ll greet others politely and may even initiate play or companionship with another dog or person in the facility. Some dogs may prefer one human over another, but most will demonstrate that they enjoy being around other people and pets.
Keeping Your Dog Physically Fit
This is a big one for many people. Dogs love to run around and play all day long, but if you don’t take them out on walks or runs, they will quickly get fat and lazy. If your dog is getting exercise at home, then chances are your dog will be perfectly fine at daycare. The key here is consistency. If you take him outside only to play once per week, for instance, you might want to rethink using daycare until he has more time to adjust to his new surroundings.
Healthy Interaction with a New Environment
Another common concern is whether or not your dog will get along with other dogs in their new environment. That is another area where consistency helps because it gives your pup time to get used to other dogs before being placed in a group situation. It also allows the staff to observe how well your pup reacts with other dogs in a controlled setting before placing them in a larger group setting like overnight boarding or a doggy daycare.
Learning Proper Etiquette from Other Dogs
If your dog is social and has a good temperament, he will probably do well at doggy daycare. The dogs in the facility will teach him how to behave around other dogs and learn what constitutes rough play and what doesn’t. If your dog tends to be aggressive or overly protective of his food or toys, he might not be a good fit for daycare.
Getting Their Nervous Energy Out
If your dog is nervous or anxious at home, daycare can help him get that nervous energy out. The distraction of new people and new dogs will take his mind off whatever it is that has him worried at home and will allow him to relax more when he gets home after daycare. Daycare also gives your dog a chance to work on his social skills. He or she can interact with other dogs and humans in a controlled environment where everyone knows what their role is, and there’s no chance of any harm arising from interactions between dogs or humans in the facility (as long as it’s well-run).
Being Mentally Stimulated So They Sleep Better at Night
One of the best ways to find out if your dog likes doggy daycare is to see if they sleep better at night. That is because dogs sleep better at night when they are mentally stimulated during the day. It helps them relax and prevents them from getting bored and anxious. A more relaxed dog will sleep better at night, which can signify that they enjoy their time at daycare. If your dog sleeps through the night without waking up, this is a good sign that they enjoy their time at daycare, and you should continue taking them there regularly. It would help if you also noted whether or not your dog’s behavior has changed since starting daycare.
For some people with dogs, there is a lot of stress that can go along with taking time off from work. It can be stressful for the owner and the dog that must stay home alone. If a dog becomes anxious when its owner leaves, what happens when the dog’s owner goes away? That is where daycare facilities come in handy. A daycare facility will allow you to leave your dog there while you are at work, and they can become more socialized with other dogs and have beneficial human interaction.
For example, a dog daycare like this one in Phoenix, AZ or other cities nearby, has indoor and outdoor boarding, lounges, courtyards, spa amenities, and other facilities that make your dog’s stay safer and more comfortable. It also has playgrounds with high-quality equipment and a play pool where your dog can play and interact with other dogs.
Finding The Right Dog Daycare
If you find the need to take your furry companion to a daycare, then you should look for one that suits their needs. Unfortunately, with several dog daycare facilities operating on the market, finding the best one for your dog can be challenging.
However, some ways can help you evaluate your options to make a sound decision. For instance, you can ask for recommendations from your family, friends, vet, and other dog-care professionals. You can also check online to get a list of prospects that you can assess.
When evaluating your options, you should know whether the facility is safe, clean, and comfortable. Also, make sure to check if the staff members are accommodating and friendly and if they’re licensed and trained to handle various types of dogs. By doing all these things, you’ll be able to find the perfect daycare for your furry friend.
Tips for Identifying a Good Vet Clinic in Singapore
Owning a pet is like owning a child. You need to be responsible for its health and well-being. If you are new in Singapore and you are looking for a new vet for your pet, it is important to know how to identify a good vet clinic. There are some important factors to consider when choosing a clinic for your pet, such as the clinic’s location, the services offered, and the staff’s qualifications.
How to Identify a Good Vet Clinic in Singapore
When it comes to finding the right vet clinic for your pet in Singapore, check out some of these useful tips…
The Vet or the Clinic Should be Accredited by the Singapore Veterinary Association
The most important thing is to find a clinic that is accredited by the Singapore Veterinary Association. This means that the clinic has met the high standards set by the Association and is committed to providing quality care for your pet.
Good Location of the Clinic
Another important factor to consider is the location of the clinic. If you live in a rural area, you may want to choose a clinic that is closer to the city so that you can easily access it when your pet needs medical attention. There are also a number of clinics that offer mobile services, so you can choose one that is convenient for you.
Seek for Friends or Family Recommendations
When you are looking for a vet clinic, you should also ask around for recommendations. Ask for recommendations from your friends and family. Once you know or have some clinics in mind, you can start to research them to see which one will be the best fit for you and your pet.
Check Out Online Reviews of Vet Clinics in Singapore
To get the most accurate picture, look for reviews on multiple sites. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded idea of the clinic. Also, consider the amount of reviews that the clinic has. A clinic with only some reviews may not be as reliable as one with many.
Schedule a Consultation with the Vet Clinic Before Planning
One of the most important tips is to schedule a consultation with the clinic before making any final decisions. This will give you a chance to meet the staff and get a feel for the facility. During your consultation, be sure to ask about the clinic’s experience with treating the type of pet you have. You’ll also want to find out about their policies on things like medications and spaying/neutering. And of course, you’ll want to make sure the clinic is able to provide the type of care your pet needs.
It is important to know how to identify a good vet clinic in Singapore. A good vet clinic should be equipped with a well-trained veterinarian, and it should have an allocated space for pet treatment. Also, a good vet clinic should have the ability to perform the surgery or treatment you might need for your pet. If these facilities are found in a good vet clinic in Singapore, then you should schedule a visit with that clinic.
5 Accessories Every Dog Owner Must Have
Having a dog you love to be with is one of the best things in the world.
A dog can bring so much happiness into your life. For some dogs, the feeling of being part of a family can’t be beaten.
There are times when a dog needs to find a good home, and if you plan to take on this responsibility yourself, then there will be many things that need to be taken care of.
You will likely encounter issues deciding what accessories you will need to keep your new dog or puppy safe and comfortable. To help you out, here we go through FIVE accessories every dog owner must invest in:
1. A Comfy Bed
If your new dog is a bed hog, there’s no better way to ensure that they get their fair share of sleep than with a comfy bed of his or her own.
A comfy bed can be used as anything from a couch to a bed, but if you’re looking for something to last, a crate mat is the way to go. They’re made from vinyl and come in various sizes, so you can choose one that best fits your dog’s size. The mat also has an adhesive underside for easy installation onto your crate or under another mattress if needed.
2. Pee Pads
Pee pads are a great way to give your dog a sense of privacy, but they aren’t just for potty training. They can be used for other reasons, for instance if your dog is anxious about leaving the house or getting into the car. Purchase pee pads for your dog, as they have numerous benefits:
— Provide an area for your dog to relieve himself.
— Help prevent accidents by keeping dogs from urinating in places they shouldn’t be.
— Keeps floors clean by eliminating tracking dirt and debris.
— Keeps you from having to clean up after an accident on the carpet.
3. A Sturdy Leash
In the summer dogs love to play in the yard and run around the neighborhood. In the winter months, they will be more likely to stay indoors. But regardless of where you live, having a sturdy leash is essential for walking your dog in any season or weather.
A good rule of thumb is to always buy a leash that is at least two-times as long as your dog’s body length. If he/she is small and very short-legged, you may want to go with three times his/her height, or maybe even four times his/her height as an extra precaution.
4. A Convenient Flea & Tick Collar
The best way to prevent fleas and ticks from infesting your dog is by keeping them at bay. A convenient flea and tick collar is a must-have for any pet owner.
A flea and tick collar can be used as a preventive measure or as a treatment when your dog has already been exposed to these pests. Some collars treat existing infestations as well as prevent future ones from happening.
The convenience of using one of these collars is that you don’t need to do anything else apart from putting the collar on your pet’s neck once a month (more frequently if needed). The collar will then release an insecticide into the environment, killing any bugs it comes into contact with.
5. Chew Toys
Chew toys can be made of anything from rubber to antlers. They are an excellent way for your dog to chew on something that is not food but yet helps keep their minds busy. A chew toys should be big enough so that your dog can’t swallow it whole, yet small enough so that your dog can get his or her mouth around it.
You should also ensure that the toy has no small parts that a dog could possibly choke on. If you have a dog who likes to chew on bones, make sure they are tough enough so they won’t break apart while being chewed on.
By And Large
We love to get the latest and greatest in gadgets, but sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. These five accessories are the most valuable and practical for our canine companions.
How to Train Your Dog With Positive Reinforcement
What does dog training mean to you? Is it following strict discipline, giving punishments, or applying tough love? If so, then you need to stop! There are other ways to train your dog. Positive reinforcement is one of those.
It does not involve retribution or yelling. Instead, it is gentle and shows effective results. It is this kind of training that shapes the dog’s behavior and intensifies the bond with your furry friend. What better way to bond with your pup than through your pup’s training? Keep on reading to find out more in detail!
What does positive reinforcement mean?
Positive reinforcement training is an easy method of training, teaching your pup how to behave in different situations. The way it works is that the expert trainer will teach the dog the behaviors with positive encouragement and motivation whenever negative and/or aggravating behavior is displayed.
By implementing this technique, you are stimulating the behavior you want to encourage, such as walking, sitting, etc. With regular practice and time, your furry friend will act in the manner you want in the future.
How is positive reinforcement a must-have for dog training?
If you are unsure how this method of positive reinforcement could benefit your dog, then stay with us for the duration of this article to learn more.
Make understanding easy with short yet direct commands…
Of course, a dog cannot understand a whole sentence in the same way that a human can. Hence, it is vital to choose direct and short commands while providing training. Some practical and quick commands include: Sit or Stay Down, Off, Watch, Up, Come, Walk or Heel, Leave It, Drop or Give, etc.
Rewarding is important for good behavior…
One point to remember is that positive reinforcement works best when it is reproducible, predictable, and constant. Hence, rewarding the dog when there is any positive response is essential.
However, rewards should only be given within a matter of seconds. Otherwise the dog will not understand the similarity or the relation between the two. These rewards include physical touch, edible treats, verbal praise, toys, etc.
For editable treats, you can choose bully sticks. Many have questioned whether or not bully sticks are harmful or have some adverse effect on health. You should educate yourself as to what are bully sticks made of and how they might improve your dog’s digestive system.
This chewable treat is usually made from beef muscle and is usually a single ingredient that can be digested easily. In addition, you can also choose blueberry, cucumber, bell pepper, banana, apple, carrot, etc., as possible treats.
Add a fun element to training…
Training can be a serious undertaking, but adding a pinch of fun does not harm anything. We advise limiting your training time-frame — a session should not exceed ten minutes. Make them listen to you, hold their attention, but make it fun also.
Keep an eye on their physical signals. If you find them distracted, not listening, or not showing any eagerness to get treats, it is better to skip that session and commence training them another time.
Unquestionably, always end the training on a positive note. The result will be that your dog will consider the training a fun time and they will understand that they will get good praise in return.
Combine positive reinforcement with clicker training…
When clicker training blends well with the positive reinforcement, then effective results are ensured. The simple theory is that when the clicker sound is familiar for the dog, it is delivered quicker than verbal signals.
As we have mentioned above, when the dog starts behaving in the way that you want, give a treat to help him or her connect the click with positive reinforcement. You can easily get training clickers at pet stores or online… and yes, they are cost-effective.
Let Your Dog Reap Benefits With Positive Reinforcement
With positive reinforcement you can train your dog without any pain or harshness. To summarize:
— Do not punish
— Overlook the unwanted demands and behaviors
— Reward the dog for the positive behavior
— Very Important: Remain consistent and patient
Always remember that a consistent and dependable environment is essential to making a young dog comfortable and happy in your home. It not only makes them feel stable, but safe and secure as well. Positive reinforcement will help make them obedient, agreeable, and responsive to your commands.
Important Factors to Consider Before Bringing Home a Dog
Are you thinking about getting a dog? If so, there are a few things you need to consider before bringing your new furry friend home. Dogs require a lot of time and attention, and they can be quite expensive to care for. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important factors to consider before bringing home a dog. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right dog for your lifestyle and needs. So if you’re ready to become a dog parent, keep reading!
Why Do You Want a Dog?
This is probably the most important question you need to ask yourself before getting a dog. Are you looking for a companion? A walking buddy? A cuddly friend? It’s important to know what you’re looking for in a dog because different breeds have different temperaments and energy levels. For example, if you live in a small apartment, you might want to consider a small breed dog that doesn’t need a lot of exercises. On the other hand, if you’re an active person who loves to hike and run, you might want a high-energy breed like a Labrador Retriever.
One of the most important things to consider before getting a dog is whether or not you have the time to care for one. Dogs need to be exercised, brushed, and trained on a regular basis. They also need to be taken out for potty breaks several times a day. If you work long hours or travel frequently, it might be best to wait until you have more time to devote to a dog.
Another important consideration is whether or not you have the financial resources to care for a dog. Dogs need food, toys, and perhaps some routine vet care. They also might require occasional grooming, which can be expensive. If you are not able to afford the upfront and ongoing costs of dog ownership, it might be best to wait until you are in a better financial position.
When you are ready to start looking for a dog, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider what size of dog would be best for your home and lifestyle. Smaller dogs may be easier to care for, but they also require more frequent potty breaks. If you live in a small space, such as an apartment, you might want to consider a smaller dog breed.
Next, think about what energy level would be best for you and your family. Some dogs need a lot of exercise, while others are content with short walks around the block. If you have young children, you might want a calmer dog who is not as likely to jump and play roughly.
Also, Grooming requirements should be considered. Some dogs need to be groomed daily, while others only require occasional brushing. Dogs with long coats may require professional grooming every few months, which can be expensive.
If you want to avoid the expenses, dry shampoo for dogs and a dog brush can make your dog look clean without taking him or her to a professional groomer every time.
Dry shampooing is not only more convenient, but also less expensive in the long run. A dog brush can help you to remove the shedding hair from your dog and keep your house clean.
Finally, consider what kind of coat type you prefer. Some dogs shed very little, while others shed quite a bit. If you are allergic to dog hair, you might want to choose a breed that sheds less. You will also need to decide how often you are willing to groom your dog. Some dogs require daily brushing, while others only need to be brushed once a week.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you are ready to start looking for your new furry friend! When choosing a dog, be sure to visit a variety of shelters and rescues to find the perfect match for you and your family. With a little patience and research, you will be sure to find the perfect dog for your home.
All About Grooming Shears
Some people may not be comfortable with grooming their own dog, and that’s okay. Those owners will choose to go to a professional groomer. But for pet owners that are on a tighter budget or just want to experience that close bond with their dog, they will choose to do the grooming themselves. For those owners, it is important to have a good pair of grooming shears.
What are Grooming Shears?
Grooming shears are one of the most important tools that a groomer or a pet owner will use. A good pair of grooming shears will impact the speed and quality of the cut. Grooming shears come in many different designs, different edge types, handle types, shank types, materials, and other characteristics.
Types of Grooming Shears
Different types of grooming shears include:
Straight Shears: These shears are used to set patterns, handle shaping, and for finishing the overall cut.
Curved Shears: Curved shears are used to fine tune the shaping and provide angulations for certain areas. The larger the shear is, the more pronounced the curve is. Larger shears are better for larger dogs.
Thinning Shears: Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one of the blades and teeth on the other blade. These blades are used for more natural looks.
Edge Types
Serrated: Serrated shears have tiny grooves on one of the blades. These grooves hold hair in place and helps with overall efficiency.
Hollow Ground: Hollow ground shears have a sharper edge for smoother and more proficient cutting.
Handle Types
Opposing Grip: Opposing grip is considered the standard design.
Offset: Offset was designed to reduce hand fatigue.
Swivel Thumb: The thumb ring will move freely and follow the groomer’s hand while cutting.
Shank Types
Short: Shorter shanks allow the blades to open wider with less hand movement.
Bent: Bent shanks allow for an easier groom and won’t flatten the coat.
Materials
Carbon Steel: Carbon steel is made of an alloy of hardened steel which is made from iron and carbon. Always keep these dry and oiled.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is also an alloy of hardened steel, but it includes chromium. Chromium helps keep away rust and corrosion.
Ice: These shears are subjected to temperatures below zero in order to obtain hardness longer.
Additional Characteristic: Length
Rockwell Hardness Rating: The Rockwell Hardness Rating is a scale to measure how hard the grooming shears are. The harder the shears, the better the shears can hold an edge. However, the shears will have more brittle metal.
There’s a lot more to grooming shears than meets the eye. Most pet owners probably don’t even think of all these elements when dropping their pets off at the groomer’s. They should, as all of these elements will affect your pet’s cut.
Author Bio: Emma Anderson has been involved with dog grooming for the past 15 years and now wants to share her experience and knowledge with others.
Do You Need Culver City Pest Control?
Culver City is a glitz and glam town with a rich moviemaking history. Pests are something that Culver City doesn’t want to be associated with when someone thinks of their city. If you see any pests popping up in your home in Culver City or anywhere else in the area, get in touch with a professional.
Why Pest Control is Important for Culver City
Culver City pest control should be an investment for the city due to its reputation in film. Additionally, Culver City is known for its buzzing nightlife, and no one wants to go to a club or restaurant inhabited by pests. Residents of Culver City will want to keep their homes beautiful. Having a professional on speed dial is an excellent way to do so.
What to Look for in Pest Control
Clients who want good quality Culver City pest control should know the following points to make that happen.
— Make sure the pest control service has its stock in the latest technology in pest control.
— You may want to invest in a company that does both residential and commercial projects.
— Ask how long they have been in the business. You want the staff to be qualified and experienced.
— Check that they are licensed and insured.
— Look for services that provide free estimates
— If the pests aren’t taken care of, the service should guarantee to come back at no additional cost.
Look at Reviews
Once you’ve found a reputable pest control company that ticks all the boxes, go to their website and look them up on Google. Please read up on their reviews. See if their past clientele were happy with their services. If the reviews don’t look good, cut your losses and move on to the next company on your list. You may follow this process a few times before finding a good match. It will be worth your time to avoid throwing your money away on a less-than-stellar service. If that’s the case, you may even still have a pest problem after going through all of that.
Pests come in all shapes, sizes, and may even have interesting quirks. Pests are sneaky, and they could even avoid your detection for a while. Don’t let them win. Keep Culver City beautiful by investing in its well-being and being aware of when pest control is needed. Once you find your ideal pest control company, you may even want to utilize their services regularly.
Author bio: Louis started American Rat Control Inc. because he realized there were not very many options in the pest control industry for expert rodent control and removal. During his 37+ years in rodent control & construction he developed processes and techniques to quickly identify rodent entry points on a structure and how to seal them up to last while looking good.
5 Dog Gadgets That Improve Your Dog’s Health
Want to pamper your pup with a healthy gadget? There are a lot of gadgets on the market that claim to improve your dog’s health. But which ones are worth your money? Here are five dog gadgets that are backed by “science” and will improve your pup’s health (inspired by dogaspet.com):
1. Waterbottle for you and your dog
Keeping your dog hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for their health. But if you’re constantly stopping to offer them water while on a walk, it can cut into your workout. The solution? Invest in a water bottle that has a built-in bowl for your pup to drink from. That way they can stay hydrated while you stay on track.
Asobubottle has a great water bottle/bowl combo that’s perfect for on the go. It also is the perfect gift for dog lovers.
2. A food dispenser toy
A food dispenser toy is a great way to provide your dog with mental stimulation. These toys challenge your dog to figure out how to get the food out, which helps keep their brain active and healthy. Most food dispenser toys are made of durable plastic or rubber and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Make sure to find a toy that is made of quality materials. Otherwise it might not stand up to your dog’s chewing. Kong is a popular brand that makes high-quality food dispenser toys. You can stuff the Kong with your dog’s favorite treats and then watch them have a blast trying to get the food out.
Some even have multiple compartments, which can make the challenge even more difficult for your dog. If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog entertained and engaged, a food dispenser toy is a great option.
3. An automatic ball thrower
If you have a fetch-loving dog, an automatic ball thrower can be a great way to keep your pet entertained. These devices are designed to launch balls a short distance, and many models come with adjustable settings so that you can control the distance and angle of the throw.
Some newer models even come with built-in sensors that will pause the machine if a person or animal enters the range of the device. This is a great safety feature if you have small children or other pets in your home. Fetch-loving dogs will never get bored with an automatic ball thrower. And you’ll never have to throw another ball again!
Automatic ball throwers can provide hours of fun for dogs of all ages, and they can also help to build up your pet’s muscles as they run back and forth to retrieve the ball. Whether you choose a basic model or a more advanced one, an automatic ball thrower can be a great way to keep your furry friend happy and active.
4. A water fountain for dogs
If you have a dog, then you know how important it is to keep them hydrated. Dogs require a lot of water to stay healthy, and even a small amount of dehydration can cause serious health problems. That’s where a water fountain comes in. This gadget gives your dog fresh, filtered water and can even add flavorings to make it more appealing.
Plus, the constant flow of water encourages dogs to drink more. As a result, a water fountain can be a great way to keep your dog healthy and hydrated. If you’re looking for a way to get your dog to drink more water, then a water fountain is worth considering.
5. A dog massage brush
As any pet owner knows, keeping a dog healthy and happy is a top priority. A Dog Massage Brush is a great way to help your furry friend relax and de-stress. A brush helps to promote circulation and relieve muscles, and it can also reduce shedding by up to 90%. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your dog and give them some extra attention.
Whether you’re using it during grooming time or just for a special treat, a Dog Massage Brush is a gadget that both you and your dog will love. With its many benefits, it’s no wonder that a brush is one of the most popular dog grooming tools on the market. If you’re looking for a way to make your dog feel relaxed and pampered, a Dog Massage Brush is the perfect solution.
Conclusion
There are a lot of gadgets on the market that claim to improve your dog’s health. But which ones are worth your money? The five gadgets listed above are all backed by “science” and could actually improve your pup’s health. So, if you’re looking for ways to keep your dog healthy and happy, consider investing in one, or all, of these great products.
