Does your dog have Separation Anxiety?

To determine whether your dog has separation anxiety, first consider if there are other causes for the problem behaviors like house soiling, destruction and vocalization.

House soiling: Other reasons dogs may eliminate when left alone include medical causes of housesoiling, inadequate house-training techniques, marking and prolonged periods without access to the appropriate areas to eliminate. If any of these are possible diagnoses, then house soiling should occur some of the time the owner is present not only when the pet is left alone.

Destruction: When dogs are destructive, alternate explanations such as young, energetic dogs with limited exercise or play and external stimuli that could arouse the dog should be explored. Dogs may be destructive at windows and doors during territorial displays. These types of problems will also be seen when the owner is present. Destruction may be a component in noise phobias such as thunderstorm phobias. External activities or territorial displays and not separation anxiety may also motivate barking dogs.

Animals that get into trash may be exhibiting food-seeking behavior. Animals that attempt to escape may have barrier frustrations concurrently with separation anxiety and may be fine if not confined. Geriatric dogs may be experiencing changes in cognition and should show other signs of cognitive decline such as wandering, loss of house training, disturbances in sleep cycles. If none of these apply, then a diagnosis of separation related anxiety is appropriate.

Treatment
To ensure success, there must be a change in the interaction between the owner and the pet in all phases of their relationship. It begins with how the owner behaves when they leave and when they return. The owner should keep the act of departure as low key as possible. Upon return it is important to keep the homecoming low key and not encourage overly excited greeting behavior. The recommendation is to ignore the dog for 15-30 minutes prior to departure and upon return. This is done on all departures, both planned and routine ones and by all family members.

Many of these dogs are extremely attached to their owners and follow them everywhere. Another key component to treatment is "independence" training. The owner should train the dog to remain calm and content at a distance from them and gradually to be in another room away from them. I suggest incorporating a dog's place in a designated area of the house where the dog is trained to down/stay and remain in this area while the owner leaves the room and gradually increases the time the dog can stay in another room away from them.

Most importantly, it is necessary to implement a structured program of complete consistency that allows the family to establish a "leadership" role. This helps to minimize confusion for the dog and reduces anxiety.

Finally, owners should make a point to spend quality time with their pets in activities such as games, walks/runs and training sessions. These activities help by stimulating their mental alertness, reducing frustration and releasing pent up energy.

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day - May 8th

With the number of earthquakes taking place around the world, there is no better reminder for us to get prepared. Here in California, we know that we should have an emergency kit prepared that includes water, first aid supplies, critical medications, food, and whatever else will help you and your family survive a natural disaster for at least a few days until help can arrive. But the awareness is greater here, as earthquakes are relatively common. The big ones we've seen around the globe recently are making headlines, not just because of their magnitude, but also because of the great numbers of people and animals affected.

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day takes place this month on May 8. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Citizen Corps declared this day as a means to raise awareness about the importance of planning for pets' safety before disaster strikes.

Remember, preparation is the best way to protect you and your pets. But, in the face of a disaster, be patient and consistent and stay calm and assertive!

Emergency Planning Basics

Hurricane Katrina, Mississippi River floods, Mount St. Helens, Oakland Earthquake, September 11, Los Angeles wildfires... When one talks about disaster preparedness, the mind goes immediately to the drama and (often) overwhelming catastrophe of community-wide events that overwhelm emergency services. We seldom stop to realize the other end of the scale occurs more often, and provides opportunities to lay a foundation of emergency preparedness. This is both easily put in place and personally manageable to make a difference not only to our own human preparedness but the successful survival of our beloved animals. Read the following tips to get prepared -- when emergencies happen that put our animals at risk, you will be one step ahead!

For more on Emergency Planning Tips go to http://www.cesarsway.com/tips/Emergency-Planning-Basics?utm_source=mobilestorm&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MayNL_1

Source: Cesar's Way Achieving Balance Between People and Dogs; May 2, 2010

Support We Are The Cure - K9 Intel

Support We Are The Cure - K9 Intel

Let's work for a cure to fight canine cancer!

While I support a number of organizations dedicated to eliminating cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service, I'm just as passionate about efforts to do the same for our four-legged family members.

"Together we can make a difference!" Please donate today!
http://www.wearethecure.org/friends/k9intel

Aggression, Fear & Anxiety

Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety and other forms of stress - from mild whining when left alone to full blown panic attacks. Some dogs are fearful of loud noises, storms or strangers, or have an aversion to people of a certain age, race, or gender. Other dogs show signs of aggression toward other dogs or even toward humans.

If your dog is showing even the mildest signs of a behavioral problem, don’t put off working with the dog now to prevent larger issues down the road. It will not get better with time! How effectively you deal with the issue at the initial onset will determine whether it becomes a controlled situation, or one the escalates over time.

Whether planned or not, your dog begins learning from the moment you meet. Every experience will shape the dog’s behavior about you and the environment your dog inhabits: your neighborhood, the veterinarian’s office, riding in your car, being home alone or with the family, and having visitors come over. How you expose your dog to new situations and how you handle those situations will have an influence on your dog’s behavior. Structuring your dog’s experiences to teach the dog what you want the dog to understand will make life better for both of you.

A dog’s confidence is enhanced by providing it with structured training and socialization activities. This gives the dog an understanding that success is always possible, making them resistant against related behavioral habits.

If you are considering a professional trainer to help you address your dog’s behavioral challenges, visit IACP for a list of qualified trainers in your area - http://www.canineprofessionals.com/


For professional training in the San Francisco Bay Area visit our website at http://www.k9intel.com/, K9 Intel is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.

Help Stop the "Return" of Blameless Pets to Shelters

Sadly, a lot of new or expectant parents today are giving their first “babies” -- their pets -- back to animal shelters. And if you think those pets will all find new, loving homes, think again. An estimated three to five million shelter animals are euthanized every year!

Worst of all, in some cases, the pet has done nothing wrong. In others, the pet’s accidental “wrongdoing” could have been prevented. The truth is most families with new babies can live safely and happily with their pets.

You can help the American Humane Society stop this tragic trend by donating to the Human-Animal Bond Division! This division’s many critical programs include a vital initiative to educate parents on maintaining households that are safe for babies and pets alike! Help address one of the root causes of unnecessary pet “returns,” as well as other important human-animal bond issues! Donate at http://www.americanhumane.org/donate/

**If you or someone you know is considering relinquishing a pet to a shelter, seek training from a professional dog trainer in your area. Find a reputable professional through the International Association of Canine Professionals at http://www.canineprofessionals.com/

Does Nutrition Influence Your Dogs Behavior?

Good nutrition helps bring down stress levels of the dog and also helps them develop calmer and more balanced behavior.

Just like us, your dog's diet & level of exercise will have a direct impact on their overall health & wellness - physical, mental & emotional. Along with training and exercise, always include your dogs nutritional diet as a factor in enhancing his/her behavior.

Proteins are good for boosting their energy and muscle regeneration. Studies show that aggressive behavior may be influenced by the lack of quality protein in the diet. Check the nutrition facts and look for food high in protein.

Stressed out dogs have difficulty digesting their food which may lead to a complication in the digestive system such as diarrhea. Try food that contains probiotics since it helps ease the digestive tract and contains the essential nutrients your pet needs.

There are many books and resources to learn more diet tips for your pet. One of my favorites is the "Holistic Dog Book" by Dr. Michael W. Fox. This a great resource for bringing a natural & healthy approach to your dog's care.

These are the National Geographic BEST pictures of the year.

These are the National Geographic BEST pictures of the year.


Truly amazing photographs so eloquently depicting the beauty of nature.

Whether it is the rainforest, Africa's Serengeti, the ocean, or an inner city animal shelter, we have connections with the animal world that are fascinating, evolving, and critical to our survival.

Benefits of adopting an older dog

Lucy & Ethel
Currently available at Muttville

While volunteering at a recent adoption event for Muttville, a Senior Dog Rescue located in S.F., I can't tell you how many people said they wanted a dog, but didn't have the time or energy to take on the responsibility of bringing a new PUPPY into the family. I heard over and over "I never thought of adopting a senior dog!"

Kids sat down on the ground holding some of the older dogs that instantly melted into their arms...making it very difficult for their parents to tear them away. It was exciting to see so many interested in making a difference in the life of a senior dog. They may take a little extra time to adjust to their new home/family, so be a little patient. But, once they settle in, you will have a calm, loyal and very loving pet that shows you each and every day just how much they appreciate their new life with you.

Visit Muttville today at http://www.muttville.org/

A few benefits of adopting an older dog:

1) Older dogs don’t normally have to be housebroken. As a result, you can save on carpet cleaning supplies and time.
2) Older dogs are already developed in size and personality. So, you don’t have to worry about them getting any bigger or changing in how they treat you or your children.
3) Older dogs don’t require as much time and attention. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about what they are doing when you’re not at home. Basically, a more mature dog is normally an easy fit into your household.

http://www.examiner.com/x-677-Dogs-Examiner~y2010m3d30-Benefits-of-adopting-an-older-dog

Wonder Dog Rescue - San Francisco Bay Area Small Dog Rescue and Adoption

Wonder Dog Rescue - San Francisco Bay Area Small Dog Rescue and Adoption

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January is Walk Your Dog Month

Structured exercise is critical to both the physical and behavioral health of our pets. It is also just as important in helping you meet your own fitness goals. A recent study from the University of Missouri reveals that people who walk with dogs are more consistent in their exercise routine than those who walk with a human.

Start off your year the right way ~ for the health of you and your pet!

Tips on How to Choose the Right Dog for Your Family

Many parents want to give their child a new puppy for Christmas. Christmas is not necessarily the best time to bring a new pet into the family. Many times there is too much going on with the holiday festivities and/or travel to give you the time necessary to focus on a new pet! Getting a new dog is not a decision to take lightly as it requires research to find the right breed, and remember, it’s a commitment for the life of the dog (usually 10+ years).

There are too many homeless pets whose owners relinquished them to shelters deciding that they are “just too much trouble” or that they "just don't have enough time for them". In most cases, these people didn't think enough about the responsibilities that come with pets, or didn't do the research necessary to determine the right pet for their family.

Owners need to make a commitment to provide food, shelter, exercise, proper training, and veterinary care. Pets need to be kept safe and owners must have time to dedicate to them. Pets offer lots of love and enjoyment; requiring very little in return.


Research, Research, Research
When considering a purebred, research the breed so that you understand their natural characteristics and know what to expect. Herding dogs are high energy and many times nip at your heels in an attempt to herd whatever they come into contact with (kids, cats, bikes, etc). Hunting dogs require a great deal of exercise and enjoy having a job. Guard dog breeds (like a Dobermans or Rottweilers) are likely to be very protective and need a more educated owner and consistent obedience work. These traits will vary depending on the dog's breeding, but the underlying temperament will be true to the breed.

Match the energy level of a breed with your energy level. High energy dogs will require a lot of exercise and will find ways to release pent up energy if they do not get the level of exercise that they need on a regular basis.

Adopting a Dog from a Shelter/Rescue
Even with shelter dogs where many are mixed breeds, it’s valuable to have an understanding of breed temperaments. The dog's breed origins will give you an idea of its behavior and personality.


Should you choose a purebred dog, consider breed rescue as an option. Most breeds have national rescue organizations dedicated to finding good homes for dogs whose owners can no longer keep them. These organizations often have prospective owners complete detailed questionnaires to insure compatibility between a dog and its new home. Dogs go to rescue for a variety of reasons- some of the most common are divorce, moving, "not having enough time for the dog". There are good, well trained dogs available at shelters and rescues. The Humane Society also has purebred dogs- after you have done your research and determined what breed works for you; visit the website for your local Humane Society for a list of "available dogs" in need of a home.

Also, find a local canine professional to help you choose the right dog for your family. Many professionals offer client services to assist you with your search by visiting local shelters & rescues with you so you can find the most suitable fit. Additionally, they can provide advice to set you up for success with your new pet right from the start.

Other Tips:
Step 1
Consult a canine professional, who can provide useful advice on a breed's behavior and temperament as well as potential health problems.

Step 2
Consider your daily routine. Are you or someone else home often enough to care for a dog? If not, consider adopting a more independent pet, such as a cat.

Step 3
Think about your family. Do you have young kids in the house? If so, be sure to choose a breed that generally gets along well with children.

Step 4
Evaluate your living environment. Is it rural or urban, an apartment or a house? A Chihuahua or Yorkshire terrier may love your one-bedroom apartment, but larger breeds need more room to roam and require more exercise.

Step 5
Supplement the information you receive from a vet or canine professional with further study about different breeds. Talking to dog owners can provide additional advice.

Step 6
Decide whether you want a purebred or a mixed-breed dog. If you plan to show or breed your dog, then choose a purebred. If not, keep in mind that mixed-breed dogs can be just as loyal and lovable.

Step 7
Decide whether you want a puppy or an adult dog. Many wonderful puppies and adult dogs have been abandoned or given up to animal shelters or breed rescue groups, and adopting a pet from one of these sources may mean saving a life.

Step 8
Ask the seller/shelter to tell you about particular habits or personality traits the dog exhibits. If it’s a shelter, ask if you can take the dog for a walk outside so you can get a better idea of its personality and energy level.

Step 9
Ask the seller about the parents of the puppies when visiting a purebred litter. Be sure that each parent belongs to an entirely different family and has been screened for common genetic or inheritable diseases.

Here are some rescue groups located in the SF Bay Area to visit if you are considering pet adoption:

http://www.wonderdogrescue.org/ (puppies available shown in photo above)
http://www.muttville.org/ (senior dog available shown in photo above)
http://www.rocketdogrescue.org/
http://www.milofoundation.org/
http://www.gratefuldogrescue.org/

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month!

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month! Make a difference and honor a dog's life by providing a loving home to one in his/her twilight years. There are great benefits to adopting a senior dog: they have a much calmer energy, require less strenuous exercise, and less often, and are most often already housebroken. They are perfect for showing younger dogs the rules ~ and prove to be invaluable tools to balance other dogs in your pack.

For more information on some amazing senior dogs currently available for adoption, please visit http://www.muttville.org/

There are some wonderful older dogs available that are in need of a loving and caring family to be a part of. Dogs like Angel, an 11 year old Shepherd mix (female), URGENTLY NEEDS FOSTER/FOREVER HOME! Angel is 45 lb., physically healthy,shepherd mix (she was a rescue dog via Second Chance Rescue).
http://www.muttville.org/

Can Pets Catch Swine Flu?

Swine flu, also known as H1N1 influenza, has been dominating the news recently. The viral strain appears set to cause the first influenza pandemic in a generation. Influenza pandemics are big deals. The pandemic of 1918-1920 caused more people to die from flu than from bullets or bombs during World War One.

Influenza viruses are known for infecting multiple species–as the name would imply, swine flu developed in pigs and then spread to people.

This may lead pet owners to wonder: can cats and dogs catch swine flu?

The answer appears to be no. DVM Newsmagazine reports that there is no evidence cats or dogs can contract, carry, spread, or suffer illness from H1N1 influenza.

Source: Dr. Eric Barchas, DVM

Traveling to Puerto Rico? Escort a Sato Dog!

Be a Sato Escort

Help to bring happy, healthy, rescued dogs to loving homes on the mainland--be a Sato transport escort! "Save A Sato" is a non-profit organization dedicated to easing the suffering of Puerto Rico's homeless and abused animals. "Sato" is slang for street dog. They are looking for people traveling to Puerto Rico that would be willing to escort a dog back to the mainland.

Sato is in need of transport escorts to accompany dogs on flights to their new homes....federal law prohibits them from sending dogs without a corresponding traveler.

If you are leaving Puerto Rico on an American Airlines flight to one of these airports please consider escorting a sato! If you are interested in donating your American Airlines Frequent Flyer miles to Save a Sato please click here.

They are currently looking for passengers flying from San Juan to -

Bradley International Airport (BDL) - Hartford, CT

Logan International Airport (BOS)- Boston, MA

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - New York, NY

Newark International Airport (EWR) - Newark, NJ

Tampa International Airport (TPA) - Tampa, FL

Hollywood International Airport (FLL) - Fort Lauderdale, FL

http://www.saveasato.org/

Choosing the Right Dog Breed | The Pet Health Zone

Choosing the right dog breed for you is as important as choosing a pet whose needs you can meet. There are a whole host of decisions that should be carefully thought out when contemplating making a pet a part of the family.

Make a checklist:

•Have I chosen a pet that will fit into my home and lifestyle?
•Do I have the financial resources to take care of a pet?
•Do I have the time to walk, groom, train and pay attention to a pet?
Whatever you do, don’t make getting a dog an impulse decision. This dog will be part of your life for years to come so do plenty of research before making the commitment.

Choosing the Right Dog Breed The Pet Health Zone

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Do Dogs Recognize Their Kin? 2009-09-01

Dogs Can Sniff Out Family From Friends
It even happens to dogs. Out of all the dog parks in town, your dog’s littermates and mom have to pick the one he goes to. There’s Mom playing fetch, and now your dog’s little brother and sister want in on the action. Do you think your dog would even recognize his littermates and parents after years of separation?
As it turns out, many studies have zeroed in on this topic known in scientific circles as "kin recognition," the study of how animals recognize their relatives and it’s importance in the natural world. The research often focuses on amphibians, social insects and in mammals, the rodent family, and there have been few studies with regard to dogs.

For research on our furry friends, we turned to the latest issue of DOGWatch newsletter from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Katherine A. Houpt, VMD, Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorist, explains that dogs do likely recognize their family members. Studies have shown that dogs will approach a littermate in preference to a strange, unrelated dog even after months of separation. And further "if a dog’s littermates were divided and cross-fostered with other females, the dog would still recognize the littermates."

While there is a stronger draw to littermates with whom a dog was raised, dogs still prefer an unfamiliar relative over a more familiar non-relative. Dr. Houpt also suspects that, although recognition is based more on color than on visual cues, a dog may be the friendliest to the dog whose genome is most like his, for instance, that with the most similar coloring. So how do dogs show their preference? They may approach their siblings or parents faster or there may be more play or tail-wagging than with unrelated dogs.

But it’s not just dogs who they recognize, but people too. Studies also show that a dog will choose the person who raised him over a stranger, even if it’s been years since they’ve been together. What a relief! They remember us after all.

Source: DOGWatch Newsletter is a monthly publication from Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Science with news and advice on dog care. http://www.dogwatchnewsletter.com/

Support We Are The Cure - K9 Intel

Support We Are The Cure - K9 Intel

Help us raise funds to support the Canine Cancer Foundation.

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10 Best Places to Live for Pet Lovers - US News and World Report

10 Best Places to Live for Pet Lovers - US News and World Report

Well, the results are in and here are the top places to live for dog lovers. Not that I entirely agree, since San Francisco didn't make it in the top 10 due to the high cost of living. Considering the hundreds of thousands of dog lovers, beautiful parks, hiking trails, and beaches, S.F. gets my vote for #1!

Ellicott City, Md.
Rocky Point, N.Y.
Auburn, Ala.
Butte, Mont.
Yankton, S.D.
Lewiston, Idaho
Glasgow, Ky.
Aiken, S.C.
Flower Mound, Texas
Wolf Trap, Va.

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Getting Active with Your Pet

It's just as important for your dog to get daily exercise as it is for you to stay fit & healthy. 50% of the pet population is overweight or grossly obese. The reasons for pet obesity include poor diet and lack of proper exercise. Exactly the same reasons that we experience challenges with our weight. Unfortunately for our pets, they depend on us to get the exercise that they need. Their health is completely in our control.


Did you know that a piece amount of cheese for a Dachshund is the same as the average-sized women eating two hamburgers. That will sure make you think about the next morsel of food you feed your pet. Think twice bout giving your dog treats simply out of guilt for being at work to late and not spending enough time with them. It's much healthier for him/her (and you) to go for a walk or engage in play.

Fun ways to include your dog in your exercise activity: Running, roller blading , skateboarding, cycling, or throw the ball and do push-ups or sit ups while they retrieve the ball.

Celebrity trainer Gunnar Peterson discusses why he has joined the fight against pet obesity, and offers tips on how pets and their owners can get and stay fit together.
Check it out....http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=182&NAME=Getting_Active_With_Your_Pet