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It is important for all dog collars to be comfortable and fit correctly. Traditional dog collars are available in a variety of materials, and are usually buckle-type collars, with a buckle similar to a belt buckle, or the quick-release type. Style must be secondary after safety and convenience when it comes to the collar you place on your dog.
There is a far greater chance that your lost dog will be returned if it is wearing a dog collar with a pet ID tag. A properly fitted dog collar is used for control, identification, fashion, identification tags and medical information. A common alternative to a dog collar is a dog harness, best used to sport tags with smaller breeds or in car travel. It’s important that a telephone number and address be on the ID tag and not the dog’s name. Having the pet’s name on the ID tag can give wrongdoers an advantage with your dog. Collars should not be so tight as to restrict breathing or cause coughing. It is important to check the collar size frequently on growing puppies.
A dog collar should be comfortable with enough room to fit two fingers between your pet’s body and the collar. Use a non metal tape measure to measure your dog’s neck and add on two to three inches. If the collar is too loose, your dog can slip out of it and escape in a dangerous environment. Loose collars can snag on objects and subject your dog to the tragedy of accidental hanging, which happens to far too many dogs every year. Break-away collars look similar to buckle collars, but have a safety mechanism installed that allows the dog to break free of the collar if excessive force is applied. These collars are useful in situations where a non-quick-release collar could get snagged and cause injury or death. A collar should never be worn when your dog is in its crate.
Use a training slip collar (also called a choke chain, slip chain, or choke collar) to teach your dog to respond quickly to your commands and walk with you. The ring which connects to the leash goes over the back of the dog’s neck, not under. When the leash is attached to the dead ring the collar does not constrict around the dog’s neck. When the leash is attached to the live ring the chain slips (adjusts) tighter when pulled and slips looser when tension is released. Master the proper use of this type collar with the snap tug release action: a quick gentle jerk with an immediate release. The dog learns by the sound of the action, not the force of tug-a-war. Proper use of this training device does not involve choking (strangling) the dog. Never leave this type of choke training collar on the dog when unattended. When the training to walk on the leash session is over, this collar should be removed.
The martingale dog collar is recommended for sight hounds because their heads are smaller than their necks and they can often slip out of standard collars. The martingale collar has 2 loops. The smaller loop is the control loop—it tightens gently when pulled to prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar. Similar to a prong collar, the martingale collar has limited constriction on the dog’s neck, and applies even pressure. It can be used for any breed of dog if desired. The martingale no-slip feature has made it a safety choice at many kennels and animal shelters.
The prong collar, or pinch collar as it is sometimes called, is a series of blunted open-end chain links turned towards the dog’s body. When the collar is tightened, it pinches the naturally loose skin around the dog’s neck. The design of the prong collar makes it have a limited circumference, unlike slip collars, which do not have a limit on constriction around the dog’s neck. Any pressure from the collar to the dog’s neck is spread out over a larger area. The prong collar should be placed high on the dog’s neck, just behind the ears. Some dogs can learn to free themselves from these collars by shaking their head to make the links pop out, so a second dog collar, usually a flat buckle dog collar, in addition to the prong collar is recommended. A plastic version of the prong collar has been termed a “good dog collar” and is considered self-correcting since it requires little strength on your part.
Article Source Information: Author Article Website
From the author: The website is dedicated to the dogs we have loved so deeply, and who have given us so much love in return. Purebreds and mixed breeds, but mostly rescues in need of a home. We educated them, but each one has had something to teach us in exchange.
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Featured Product: Labrador Retriever Oval Sticker
Who wouldn’t be tempted to cuddle a well-groomed and clean Labrador Retriever? They are every dog owners pride. But every dog owner should always remember that grooming and cleaning is not merely to make your Labrador Retriever look good. Grooming and cleaning is important in maintaining the general health condition of your dog.
Bathing is one of the many responsibilities of a dog owner. However, bathing your dog too often is not good for his skin. The frequency of the bath depends on your dog’s breed and his type of activities. As for the Labrador Retriever, give him a bath when he is really dirty especially if he has stayed out and worked a lot. You can also use your nose to tell if your dog needs a bath. Bathing him too often than needed will strip the skin’s natural protective oil resulting to dry, itchy skin and will irritate the skin further when scratched.
If the weather is good and warm, you can bath your dog outside. Make sure to choose a place that will not turn into mud when it gets wet. If you think that bathing outside seems unappealing to your dog, wash him inside and try to use warm water. But before the bath begins, prepare everything- shampoo or conditioner, towel, comb and even dog treats or toys. Remember to use a shampoo specially formulated to work on problems such as fleas and ticks, dry itchy skin, doggy odor, abnormal shedding and others.
Start bathing your dog from the head and work towards the tail. Wash his face with wash cloth. Avoid pouring lots of water in his face to prevent it from getting inside the ears. You may also want to place cotton balls inside his ears to make sure water cannot enter. Water in the ears is not good for dogs and can cause health problems such as ear infection.
Thoroughly wet your dog with water using a pitcher or a spray nozzle. If you are using spray nozzle, make sure that the spray is not too strong. Avoid spraying directly into your dog’s face or genital. Apply dog shampoo and work from the head to the tail. Remember to read and understand the product labels carefully. While shampooing, pay particular attention to parts like rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin.
After shampoo, rinse your dog thoroughly to prevent shampoo residue that may possibly cause skin irritations. Dry your dog’s coat using towel. But be careful not to rub because coats of some breeds tangle easily.
Some dog owners think that bathing a dog is so difficult, but with the right knowledge and technique, bathing a dog is not a challenge anymore.
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When buying dog clothes I suppose the first important consideration would definitely be the size of your dog. Most dog clothes manufacturers actually provide dog apparel in a wide range of sizes to accommodate all dog sizes. Others even offer custom made clothes to ensure a right fit. You need to ensure that your dog is comfortable and that the clothes serve their purpose.
If you own small toy dogs, clothes wouldn’t be much of a problem. However, if you do own big dogs like German shepherds and the like you need to select apparel that is suited for the activities these large dogs may engage in.
You have to bear in mind that these dogs are more active and they require clothing that they will be comfortable in when they move about. If you will be buying clothes for working dogs, it is important to consider the type of work they are engaged in. Usually apparel for large dogs are more practical and basic in design compared to the flashy designs of cute and small dogs.
Choose material like nylon or cotton that will not trap heat onto your dog’s body and instead allow the dog’s coat to breathe. Clothes made of polyester are not advisable. You do not want your dog to overheat at this can be uncomfortable and dangerous.
It is essential that you get your dog used to wearing apparel for quite often some of them may feel uncomfortable in it. They just need to get used to the idea.
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Featured Product: Pit Bull Life ~ Oval Sticker
FORMER Atlanta Falcons star quarterback Michael Vick has filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11. His career derailed by convictions on federal charges related to running a dog-fighting ring, Vick is broke. The bankruptcy filing says that his assets are between $10 million and $50 million, and his debts are in the same range. He’s now serving a 23-month sentence in Leavenworth.
Meanwhile, the 49 pit bulls seized from Vick’s Bad Newz Kennel in Surry County are living the high life. Many experts said that the former fighting dogs should be euthanized, but, instead, a judge ordered each dog individually evaluated. As a result, only one was deemed too vicious to help; another had to be put down because it was sick.
In fact, the disbursal of the Bad Newz Kennel has been Good Newz for the dogs and researchers, who are studying the pits to find out just if and how these gladiators can be rehabilitated.
Of the 47 surviving dogs, 22 are at an animal sanctuary in Utah, and 25 went to foster homes. One is now a gentle therapy dog, another is in training for “flying disc” competitions, and others have happily adapted to family life, reports The Washington Post.
So far, so good. Pit bulls are not an easy breed and it takes careful, responsible, intelligent handling to keep their aggression in check. This, sadly, was the opposite of the Vick approach. Let’s hope he learns as much at Leavenworth as the pit bulls learned in their new lives.
“She’s out of her element,” Richland County senior deputy dog warden Arden Stannard said.
The mother was one of 86 dogs removed June 13 from the 1455 Washington North Road residence in Washington Township. Only 22 could be saved. The others had to be euthanized for health problems or birth defects caused by inbreeding.
Many of the remaining dogs are available for adoption or will be soon, though some need a little extra care.
“The best thing for these dogs is for someone to help socialize them,” Stannard said of a need for volunteers. “The more people, the better ... that way they’re friendly with everybody.”
Estimated at 14 years old, the mother dog had another litter while at the shelter.
“She had five; one didn’t make it,” kennel attendant Lorie Miller said. “She is the best mother. She takes care of them.”
When she weans her latest brood, the mother will need a good home.
“It’s so sad. She’s so old,” Miller said. “That’s all she knows, is being a mama.”
Her new puppies will be available for adoption when they’re 8 weeks old.
Miller had to shave two dogs because their fur was so matted. They warily walked on grass in a pen Tuesday morning. Stannard said they aren’t used to being outside.
Miller next brought out seven puppies, just weeks old. The 14-year-old mother nursed them until shelter employees found their real mom.
The puppies huddled together before branching out to explore the clover. One adventurous pup checked out a photographer’s equipment.
Their mother seemed at ease as she leaned against Miller, seeking affection. She has made quite a turnaround in her two weeks at the dog shelter, Stannard said.
“She didn’t want nobody close to her,” he said. “She was going to get put down as soon as the pups were weaned.”
A vastly improved temperament has reversed that thought. Like the older mother, the second mom will be available for adoption when her puppies are weaned.
Sue Shoemaker was the dogs’ previous owner. Health Commissioner Stan Saalman asked the board to consider emergency condemnation of her property, saying it was unfit for human habitation.
Probate Judge Phil Mayer said Adult Protective Services is investigating. Mayer said that group becomes involved when it’s suspected an older adult is being abused or neglected.
Columbus attorney Rebecca Hockenberry, representing Shoemaker, said Shoemaker would try to renovate the residence within 120 days.
In June, the health board gave her 30 days. The board will meet at 7 p.m. July 21.
Mansfield News Journal
]]>When the bombs start bursting in air later this week, many a dog will get the jitters—a result of the sudden noises, bright lights, and even the scent of gunpowder, which some experts say may add to their unrest.
It’s also a day that keeps animal shelters busy, with an influx of dogs that flee their homes when the celebrating starts.
“It’s the worst day of the year,” says Jim Monsma of the Washington Animal Rescue League. “Dogs that never could jump that fence sail over it when the fireworks start.”
Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) has issued an advisory reminding everyone to keep a close eye on their animals on the 4th. It passes on the following tips:
-- Keep you pets indoors in a sheltered area at peak fireworks times, and make sure you’ve removed any items that might be harmful if chewed.
-- Having a television or radio playing at low volume can help calm an animal.
-- Check with your vet in advance if you know your animal gets distressed on the 4th.
-- Don’t leave your pet outside unattended, even if your yard is fenced.
-- Make sure your pet is wearing identification tags
-- Leave your dog home if you’re going to a fireworks display.
-- Do not leave your pet in the car, even for a few minutes.
As this Associated Press story points out, it’s best to have taken the right steps ahead of time, so you’re as prepared as you can be when the fireworks begin.
For more long term methods to help your pet get over the stress fireworks can cause, another recent Associated Press story offers some helpful tips.
Conditioning a dog to be relaxed during fireworks can take months, but it’s possible.
At Behave Canine Solutions, a company that offers dog training classes in Oregon, dogs in the Puppy Preschool program spend a day training for fireworks. The process involves integrating sound, smells and visual displays into activities such as playing or eating.
“What a dog is or isn’t exposed to, especially in the first 16 weeks, can affect their behaviors for the rest of their lives,” said Denise Mullenix, one of Behave’s trainers. The class moves puppies to different stations that play sounds of fireworks, expose them to small smoke balls and burning charcoal, and bring them near sparklers and bright flashes.
Owners can also train their dogs at home by playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume during an activity that the dog enjoys. By gradually increasing the sound, you can get to the point where the dog stops exhibiting signs of anxiety—panting, drooling, pacing—and is comfortable.
If owners don’t have months for training, some veterinarians recommend sedatives—an option most dog trainers says should be a last resort.
Some dogs can go to fireworks shows and be fine with it, but for others, and espeically first-timers, be sure to keep a close eye, and a good grip, on your pet.
If your dog starts freaking out, get the dog indoors as quickly as possible, or, if you’re away, into the car with you.
At home, or in a car, you can turn on the air conditioning or the radio to minimize the sounds. Giving the dog a treat can get his mind on something else.
Also available are products that produce pheromone-mimicking scents that can relax and comfort a dog—DAP, or Dog Appeasing Pheromone, for canines, and Feliway for cats.
Then there’s the greatest sedative of all—exercise. If you wear your dog out earlier in the day with a lengthy romp, chances are, safe at home, he might even sleep through the noise.
]]>Another 31 dogs from the mill are receiving care at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach. They won’t be ready for adoption for at least a couple of weeks, executive director Joan Radabaugh said.
The dogs being treated at Peggy Adams are still under court control and when that is lifted, they should be up for adoption, Radabaugh said.
A team of four Broward Humane Society employees had gone to Lyles, Tenn., over the weekend to help their national counterparts handle hundreds of dogs that authorities say were mistreated.
The dogs were kept in cages stacked one atop the other, said Lacey Freeman, foster care coordinator for the Broward Humane Society. The adults served one purpose—to breed puppies for sale to pet stores and over the Internet, officials said.
Many of the cages had wire floors, so the waste from the dogs on top dripped onto the dogs in the cages below, Freeman said.
The result: hundreds of dogs in need of everything from emergency medical care to basic grooming.
“Most of the dogs that are long-haired will have to be shaved,” Freeman said.
Teams from Missouri, Atlanta, Tampa and other locations across the country helped in the rescue effort, which involved more than 700 animals, including more than two dozen horses, 20 cats and 15 chickens.
Jordan Crump, spokeswoman for the Humane Society of the United States, said she has spoken with the Tennessee district attorney investigating the case and no charges had been filed as of Monday.
Attempts to contact someone at Pine Bluff Kennels were unsuccessful Monday afternoon.
The Broward team loaded its share of dogs into two trucks and returned to the Humane Society at 3 a.m. Monday.
Now that they’re in South Florida, the dogs will be bathed, checked for diseases and vaccinated.
Wachter said those that are ready will be put up for adoption starting today.
Others, including several dogs that are pregnant or have given birth within the past few days, will be sent to foster homes until they and their pups are ready for adoption.
But Wachter had some words of caution for Broward residents who want to take any of these dogs home.
“They’ve lived their whole lives in kennels, so they’re not housebroken,” Wachter said.
The larger dogs were likely kept isolated in kennels, Freeman said, so they’ve had little human contact. “They’re going to have a harder time emotionally adjusting to what it means to be with a family.”