Now, here is a dog breed topic after my own heart – the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.  As you would know if you are a regular reader of HealthierDogs.com or the HealthyHappyDogs.com newsletter, one of my dogs is a Staffie.

It always astounds me when I hear about people being afraid of these dogs.  That criminal, unscrupulous, people use them in dog fighting, I suppose, doesn't surprise me.  My Jet always hated other dogs outside of our home (she's getting a little mellower now in her old age – but just a little!) – and she would take on a dog of ANY size.

But as a family dog – a child's dog – she is perfect.  I have never, ever, seen her lose her cool with my son who could, if the mood took him, tease her quite mercilessly -unacceptable, I know, but he really loves her to bits and is nice to her the majority of the time.  Anyway, Jet took it all.  She was as hyperactive as they come, but she is always happy and loves nothing better than to play games with her family (other dog and humans alike).

In fact, a Staffie breeder recommended Staffies to me as being a superb children's dog before I got Jet.  And if Jet's temperament is anything to go by, I would agree with this one hundred percent.

Anyway, I'm getting away from myself!

Here is an article written by a Staffie breeder about the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed, and all sorts of other interesting information:

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier – the Facts

Does the mention of bull terrier brings shiver down your spine? This is an unfair justification of the breed but one cannot be blamed, however, for indeed the history of the bull terrier is factually cruel, bloody and violent. However, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, although a descendant of the viscous bull-fighting breed, is none but a loving, docile and well-loved companion of people all over the world.

Who wouldn’t be aware of the notorious bloody history of the bull terrier? In England, during the 18th century, a game called bull-fighting is a well-loved past time and it is in this game that vicious dogs are used to attack and kill different large creatures such as bull, bears and other dogs. This trend caused the breeding of several bull-fighting dogs such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.

To create a dog that is a fighter inside the pit and a loving friend outside of it, is the main purpose for the development of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the regions of Staffordshire England. The breed brilliantly possessed a fearless, biddable, intelligent, loyal and loving disposition that it became popular in the bull fighting circuit. When the animal welfare law was approved in England, the bull fighting became illegal and was ultimately put to an end.

Now being popular as a companion dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier became popular as a household pet and was enjoyed by many people in England. In May 25, 1935 it became officially part of the UK Kennel Club and, at the same time, was introduced to the US. It never became as popular in the US and it was only in 1976 that it was officially registered by the US kennel clubs.

This breed is also known as Staffie, Stafford, Staffros or Staff and is next of kin to the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. Outwardly, this breed definitely looks intimidating but it is actually a loving and docile dog that loves to hang out with people especially children. When it comes to family love and loyalty, the Staff comes second to none.

The Staffie is hailed as a great all purpose dog because of its unfailing intelligence, trainability, gentleness and eagerness to abide. Because of these traits, although it was once a fighting dog, it is an undesirable guard or attack-dog. In a 1996 Southampton University study, the Staffie is one of the top ten breeds that are most suitable for families especially children.

This creature is a natural athlete because of its medium-sized, muscular and agile body. It possesses great strength, stamina and agility that plenty of activities and exercise are needed. This dog, however, is suitable for apartment living so long as it is taken outdoors for a daily walk.

Generally, the Staffordshire bull terrier stands 14 to 16 inches in height and weighs 24 to 32 pounds. Its coat is short, smooth and body-hugging and it gives the breed a polished and sinewy look. The breed may come in colors of black, red, fawn, blue, white, brindle or any combination of these solid colors with white.

About the Author:

Familiarize yourself with the great all-purpose family dog ever, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Discover helpful information on Staffordshire Bull Terriers and get expert insights from author and breeder Michael Houston.

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by Melissa Simmonds

Everybody wants a well trained dog. Let me ask you, are you willing to dedicate several blocks of your time everyday to specifically teach your dog obedience tricks? Do you have a vast reservoir of patience you can draw from when your puppies decide to leave you for every moving thing they see around them? Can researching the net for tips and acquiring dog training DVDs be a priority so you can continuously have education materials on hand for your dog? If so, great! You are the best person to teach your pet. If not, then in home dog training with a professional is the next best thing to get for your dog.

Homeschooling your pet presents great benefits for the owner and dog alike. More than anything, it frees you to use your time elsewhere without losing essential training opportunities your dog needs. Having the sessions done at home will let you see your dog as much as you like. You will be updated on his lessons and enjoy seeing your pet’s development happening right before your eyes. And if you are around often, your pet will be familiar enough with you so your special bond will not be broken.

If you are decided on this course of action, the alpha and omega of the success of your dog training will be finding the right trainer. The way to find a reliable trainer is from recommendations of family and friends. These are people whose opinions you trust and who want the best for you. Definitely as in home dog training continues to grow in popularity; you will have people within you and your family’s circles who know an equipped and highly capable expert.

Determine if you want individual classes or group classes with your dog. While one-on-one training gets your dog the undivided attention and priority of his teacher- enrolling in a group class is a good alternative. The latter sessions will teach your dogs important socialization skills and healthy interplay of his own kind. Preferably, find a group whose owners you know takes excellent care of their pets. Infection, sicknesses, parasites, and such are transferrable conditions that need to be avoided at all costs.

Every dog needs even the most basic of training. Because he deserves the best, reserve an appointment and schedule a plan with that professional trainer as soon as possible. In home dog training may cost money, but the value of a well trained and happy dog far exceeds its value.

Better yet, find the best resource for training your dog in your home yourself – and here it is! – Click here.

Tags: basic dog training, dog training, dog training dvd, dog training dvds, dog training tips, in home dog training, obedience training, professional dog training, teach dog tricks, train your dog, train your pet, well trained dog

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by Melissa Simmonds

Dogs can cost an owner a pretty penny to be trained in a proper dog school. The rent for the use of their establishment, specialty trade tools, certified trainers and prestige some academies peg on their services makes up most of the added expense. Fortunately, there is another alternative to having a professionally trained dog sans the often times exorbitant fee – a dog training DVD.

With dog training DVDs you don’t have to worry about rates and additional fees. You buy the DVD and Voila! your very own professional trainer right in your living room. The only cost you have to worry about is the product itself—and maybe a higher laundry bill from all the hands-on training you will be doing.

There are so many instructional DVDs out in the market today, choose the title that would best service your doggie training needs. Determine what you want to teach your pet. Videos that educate the owner how to effectively train canine basic obedience commands should be a priority to the freshman dog. When successfully completed, you can then carry on to the next level of training.

The best way to buy these DVDs is through surfing the internet. Research on some of the better animal trainers in the country and check if he has some resources that are available in Amazon or his own website. You want the most effective teaching and inside information you can get your hands on, find the expert who can give it to you. Many of these “professionals" are expert self-promoters so verify their claims by searching feedback on blogs and sites.

Specialty dog websites are reliable and helpful sources of these products. Their endorsement usually ensures that you are getting your money’s worth by purchasing the DVD. Of course, they have a percentage for sales generated, but they will not risk some dollars earned on bad or mediocre training videos. Take advantage of special offers and promotional discounts these sites offer for the products that you need.

Dog training is one of the best gifts you can ever give to your pets. Obedient and trained dog are more confident and happier animals. Besides that, imagine how much more you can do together. You and your dog will enjoy open communication and mutual trust that will result in a fruitful and satisfying relationship. Professional animal training needn’t be expensive and inconvenient – with dog training DVDs, a much improved version of your fury friend is just a click away.

Tags: dog obedience, dog obedience training, dog training, dog training dvd, dog training dvds, dog training video, dog training videos, obedience training, puppy training, puppy training dvd, puppy training video, video dog training

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by Melissa Simmonds

Anyone who has ever brought home a puppy knows that the best days are yet to come. Sure puppies are among the most adorable creatures ever. But watching them learn and discover the world is what makes them so precious to us.

In their growing up and learning years, it is important that you instill them with correct practices and proper behavior early on. House training a puppy is simultaneously frustrating and fun. Regardless, you have to be there and teach them. Here are some puppy training tips that will help make your job a lot easier.

It’s so easy to spoil the puppy fur balls. Let them get away with the mischievous little tricks that are just so cute. What harm could it do right? Wrong. You have to set yourself as their master early on. Don’t let them get away with bad behavior at any time. You can play with them but be firm and authoritative when the need arises. Once they submit to your leadership, training them will be much simpler.

To train effectively you must open communications that your dog will understand and obey. More often than not it’s not the dog’s stubbornness that makes him not follow you, it’s his confusion on what you really mean. Use the same word or phrase every time. If you use “Sit!” don’t use “Down, boy!” anymore. Be repetitive in your obedience training.
Puppies understand the language of praise. If you want him to distinctly remember a certain behavior, praise him enthusiastically during the actual act. He will associate the favorable sensation of being commended with that particular act. He will strive to gain more praise and repeat it.

On the other hand, discipline the dog by admonishing him sharply for wrong conduct. You can use spray guns to squirt water to rebuke him but never hit him. Sometimes owners unknowingly over compensate and hit their puppies. This will result in fearful and aggressive dogs that will not be good around people.

Socialization is especially effective when practiced regularly until the puppy is about 3 months of age. He will grow up to be a friendly and well rounded dog, able to interact with humans and canines alike. Take him to places where there are a lot of people. Let him play with other dogs you know are clean and healthy. Let him get accustomed to strange objects to dogs like vacuum cleaners, cars, other animals. When he ages, he is less likely to be intimidated and fearful of things and people.

With these puppy training tips, expect a confident and well-adjusted dog in a few years. It is an enjoyable and rewarding past time to house train a puppy as long as you do it right.

For more tips on house training a puppy and other puppy training tips, click here.

Tags: dog training dvd, dog training dvds, dog training video, house training a puppy, puppy obedience, puppy preschool, puppy socialization, puppy training, puppy training dvd, puppy training tips, puppy training video, train a puppy, train your puppy, training a puppy

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When a pet owner goes out of town, they are often left with a tough choice regarding the care of the furry members of their family. They can call a friend to check on Spike or Fluffy every day or so, or they can call the dreaded kennel. Oh, the kennel, we know it well; you must call so many days in advance, it costs a lot of money, and, let's face it, our pets frankly do not like to be there.

Our salvation from the tyranny of the kennel is called in-home pet sitting. The difference between them and the kennel owners is simple, really; the in-home pet sitters care for our pets in their normal home surroundings. The kennel is content to let our pets sit in a cell nearly all day, by themselves; in an unfamiliar environment, frightened and (seemingly) abandoned. It's enough to make a pet owner's heart break. It's completely different when using a pet sitters. When you hire one of these services, your pets stay in the comfort of their own homes; where they feel safe, secure, and happy. A kind, caring person will come in to check on them, feed them, and play with them at least twice a day. Now, we've already gone above and beyond the kennel, but there are more benefits to in-home pet sitting services even than that!

We started out cringing in fear of the dreaded kennel, but with a quality pet sitting service, readily available in virtually every area across the nation! Trust me; when you decide to hire an in home pet sitter to care for your pets the next time you go on a trip, not only will you pets thank you, your wallet will too. Now you can take your next vacation or business trip and relax, knowing your pets are well cared for without suffering the stress of being taken to the kennel.

- Janet Jackson

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It’s summer! Keep your pet safe and happy when you hit the road By Boyd Harrell, DVM For many of us summer is travel season; a time when the entire family finally has some precious time together for rest, relaxation and recreation. Of course, if you are a pet owner and lover like me, your pet is likely to be traveling with you. So don’t let poor planning for your pet’s travel turn your vacation into a disaster. Here are some pet travel basics to follow and pitfalls to avoid: Top 5 Pet Travel Concerns
1. Anxiety: Dogs can be scaredy cats on the road Some dogs get all excited at the prospect of a car ride. They jump eagerly into the car and watch happily out the window. Others have travel anxiety. These dogs must be dragged into the vehicle and they pant, tremble and stay crouched down for the entire trip. Different feeding times, a strange bed, long car rides, lots of commotion and unfamiliar faces can all be stressors for your pet. These can have a wide range of side effects — from having an accident in the vehicle to getting aggressive. If your pet gets stressed on the road, consider a safe and natural supplement to enhance his mood and keep him calm. 2. Dehydration: Quench his thirst to avoid medical issues Dehydration in pets is common during warm weather, travel or any time your pet doesn’t have access to water for an extended period of time. Signs of dehydration range from excessive panting and dry mouth to loss of elasticity in the skin, sunken eyes and exhaustion. Dehydration can occur quickly as a lot of moisture is lost when pets pant from either anxiety or summer heat. Plenty of fresh cool water is essential to maintain proper hydration and organ function and avoid possible heat stroke. Pack water in a sealable container — and don’t forget the bowl. 3. Pet odors: Never pleasant on a trip If you have had problems with pet odors in your vehicle, you know that getting rid of the odor can difficult. Traveling in the close confines of an automobile exaggerates odors from pets. Dogs often find unpleasant things to roll in at parks and rest stops and a soiled crate quickly diminishes the air quality. And it’s not just the odor. Pet feces and urine can pose a real health danger to you and your family. Be sure to pack environmentally friendly deodorizers and cleaners to keep your pet and your family safe, clean and fresh. 4. Digestive upset: Calm his topsy-turvy tummy Travel or motion sickness is caused by movement in different directions, particularly when the animal is sitting or standing still in a moving vehicle. It can also happen when there is a loss of visual contact with the outside horizon or due to pressure changes through elevation changes. These events may cause changes in the balance center of the inner ear, leading to fatigue, nausea, dizziness and even vomiting. Your pet is experiencing enough changes during travel season, so try not to alter his normal diet. And include healthy snacks to keep him energized and happy. 5. Emergencies: Be prepared for the unexpected Medical problems and injuries can be even more difficult to deal with when you are on the road. Be sure to have a pet first aid kit, medical records, your veterinarian’s number and a pet poison control phone number with you at all times. Next, be sure every family member knows where these things are and that they are readily accessible. Small efforts in organizing and preparation can pay large dividends for both you and your pet during your next travel. Plan ahead for pet-friendly locations and if one of your destinations does not allow pets be sure to have scouted out a nearby boarding facility you are comfortable with and make reservations well in advance. Now that you are ready, get out and have fun!	Protect your pet on the road Even under the most unsettling conditions, you can calm your anxious pet with a dose of "Mellow Out" Pet Relaxant. For a beautiful, healthy-looking, shiny coat and a long-lasting clean fragrance, Oxyfresh Pet Shampoo is a choice that can’t be beat. Safely and effectively remove even the worst odors from your vehicle and pet’s coat with versatile Pet Deodorizer. This nutritious snack combines delicious beef jerky with nutraceuticals to offer ultimate nutritional support for your pet. At Oxyfresh, we stand behind the superior quality of our health and wellness products with a 30-day guarantee. Boyd Harrell, DVM Dr. Harrell is a former multi-veterinary practice owner, an international speaker and a pet health advisor for Oxyfresh. He is formally trained in life, leadership, health and business coaching and holds advanced certifications in “The Model of Human Behavior,” which is the model of how people interact and what does and does not motivate them. Even under the most unsettling conditions, you can calm your anxious pet with a dose of "Mellow Out" Pet Relaxant. For a beautiful, healthy-looking, shiny coat and a long-lasting clean fragrance, Oxyfresh Pet Shampoo is a choice that can’t be beat. Safely and effectively remove even the worst odors from your vehicle and pet’s coat with versatile Pet Deodorizer. This nutritious snack combines delicious beef jerky with nutraceuticals to offer ultimate nutritional support for your pet.
Use versatile Pet Deodorizer wherever it's needed in your pet's environment to neutralize odors. Non-toxic and safe enough to use directly on your pet!

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Should you be using Advantage flea control, Frontline flea and tick control, and other well known chemical flea control agents to get rid of fleas in your dog?

I have maintained for several years that the clear answer is NO. 

The problem of how to get rid of fleas is an ever present one for most pet owners, but in most cases, there are many steps you can take to prevent fleas, and even to get rid of them if they do occur, without needing to resort to these chemicals poisons.

I have just come across a great, informative article on the dangers of these chemical flea treatments – it was an article that appeared in The Whole Dog Journal back in 2002 (just before I started reading that publication, in fact).  You can read the article here – http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf

It says what I have been saying all along, but backs it up with scientific evidence, laboratory studies, information on how these products work, what EXACTLY they contain, and what health problems they do actually cause.

 I couldn't possibly do justice to the information in the article here, which is why I've given you the link where you can read the entire article at your leisure. 

But suffice to say:

1.  While products such as Frontline flea and tick, and Advantage flea control may be effective in getting rid of fleas, there is a cost – a cost to your dog's health.

2.  Adverse skin reactions to the application of these topical treatments, while they can be severe, are probably the least of the concerns.

3.  It is established that these chemical flea preparations can cause such diverse side effects as chronic itching, depression, lethargy, liver toxicity, lung tumors and other cancers and autoimmune disease.

4.  Dogs who already suffer from conditions involving their liver, kidneys, thyroid, adrenal gland, spleen, lung or brain, are eminently more likely to develop serious chronic illness as a result of the use of chemical flea preparations.

5.  Although animals in good health may not show any adverse signs from the use of chemical flea treatments, the toxity will inevitably build up and over time, although you may not connect certain conditions with the use of these flea treatments, the connection can be scientifically established as being a very likely cause.

6. Contrary to what your vet may tell you, and the advertising for these products would have us believe, there is no doubt that these pesticides do enter your dog's internal organs, do move into their intestinal tracts, and are eventually eliminated in your dog's urine and feces.  All of these products have neurotoxic effects on your dog.

So there you have it.  I really encourage you to go read the article – http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf. 

It's an eye opener for anyone who doubts that these chemicals are causing long term damage to our dogs.

And if you're wondering how to get rid of fleas and how to prevent them in the first place withOUT using chemicals, click here.

Tags: advantage flea control, flea treatment, frontline flea and tick, frontline flea control, getting rid of fleas, how to get rid of fleas

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Great Danes have always fascinated me, simply because they are so huge.

I found the following information from a Great Dane fancier, that I thought would be a good read for my readers, especially if you are considering a Great Dane as a pet – they make great pets, but you do need a big space to house them!

Here is Matt Warwick's article on Great Danes:

The Great Dane appears in history as far back as 36 B.C, for it is said that the image of a dog very similar in appearance to the Great Dane of today appears in Greek currency of that time. Long ago, in 407 A.D. German Gaul and parts of Italy and Spain were invaded by an Asiatic people who brought with them strong, Mastiff-like dogs. These animals were celebrated in Germany for their hunting abilities, being able to overpower bears and wild boars, and hence a selective breeding program was begun to further hone these abilities.

What resulted from a crossing with the Irish Wolfhound was the beautiful, large and agile dog we know as the Great Dane today. Because they were originally developed to hunt boar, they were given the moniker Boarhound. When these animals ceased to be used for hunting, however, the breed evolved into family companions and estate watchdogs.

The Great Dane is also known by the names Danish Gallant, Deutsche Dogge, or Danish Hound. It is commonly referred to as the Apollo of all breeds, and it is easy to see why. The Great Dane is considered one of the tallest dog breeds, alongside with the Irish Wolfhound.

In fact, the current holder for the title of tallest dog in the world is a Great Dane! This gentle giant is nothing short of majestic, for it is one of the largest working breeds, and never appears clumsy. The breed combines a noble air with robustness, and power goes hand in hand with elegance.

Its regal bearing, subtle strength and calm demeanor all paint the picture of a striking animal. The Great Dane is a formidable-looking animal, especially in the show arena. Not only that, it is just as popular as a family pet due to its placid temperament and sweet nature, rendering them outstanding family companions.

The Great Danes splendid appearance combines its great size, powerfully formed body and smooth musculature with poise, power, and grace. An ideal specimen of this breed is spirited and never faint-hearted. It is always courageous, friendly and dependable.

With its narrow head, long, muscular neck and perfectly straight front legs, the Great Dane looks up at you with a lively, intelligent expression. All Danes have short, shiny, dense coats, which come in the colors fawn, brindle, black, blue, mantle harlequin and sometimes merle. Their short coats are extremely easy to groom, so it is better to groom them daily than bathe that immense body!

The Great Dane, sweet and patient by nature, is playful and patient with children and loves everyone. It does not bark unless the circumstances call for it, and only becomes aggressive when needed, such as in a hostile environment and it is acting as a protector. This brave, loyal dog will be a steadfast companion and a worthy, wise addition to any family and home.

About the Author:

See Matt Warwick’s website and read a myriad of Great Dane information - Everthing you need to know about training, breeding and grooming a Great Dane.

Tags: giant dog breeds, great dane, great dane breed, great dane dog, great dane dog breed, great dane facts, great dane grooming, great dane health, great danes, history of great dane, working dog breed, working dogs

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Ever had a hankering for a certain breed of dog? Not an obsession, mind you – not the sort of longing that would send you rushing to a breeder, thousand-dollar-bill in your sweaty palm – but just a gentle appreciation for the virtues of the Poodle, Pug or Pyrenean Mastiff?

Let's say you have — but you thought buying a purebred pup was a less-than-ideal use of your family's resources. If that's the case, it might be time to look up your local Dog Rescue organization! Dog Rescues are organized by breed, so prospective parents can sign up to be notified when new poodles or pugs come in.

What's the advantage of adopting a rescue dog, instead of a breeder pup? A rescue dog isn't always cheaper than the breeder's (though it usually is). The main difference is this: your money equals a new life for a dog that completely lost out on his first roll of the dice.

How do I adopt a Rescue Dog?

Dog rescue organizations are volunteer-driven, and loosely organized. Your best bet is to "Google" for the one nearest you, using the breed name. So poodle lovers can search for "Poodle Rescue" or "Poodle Rescue Florida," if they live down south.

Once you find an organization, you'll want to apply as an adoptive parent. This may involve a down payment. It also usually involves a form in which you describe your history of animal ownership, and supply references. You'll provide some information on your beliefs about dog discipline, your house and yard, and where you plan to keep your newest family member.

The dog rescue foster moms and will want to talk to you in person, too, to get a feel for your compatibility with their particular pup.

What will I pay for a Rescue Dog?

On average, you'll pay between $200 and $300. If you thought "rescue" adoption was cheap, this might seem like a lot, but the fact is it simply covers basic procedures to bring the animal back to health. Most dogs arrive at the Rescue with skin problems, tartar-coated teeth, out-of-date vaccinations, possible parasites and other issues.

How will a Rescue Dog differ from a breeder or pet store dog?

In a number of ways. Your new adoptee is likely to be:

Older. Few dogs are rescued as puppies. A few are 'adolescent.' The vast majority are middle-aged.

Cautious. Your adoptee may have a lot of fear and yes, grief, to process. If he felt like a part of his former family, he may be grieving his sudden "ejection." He may need time and patience to take an interest in food, play, or his general surroundings. If he was starved or kept isolated, he'll need time and patience to learn to socialize.

"Readable." Buying a puppy means taking a wild guess at the eventual adult. When you rescue a grown dog, you get a much better idea of his personality. It's easier to make the perfect match.

Am I the right type of owner for a Rescue Dog?

An important question! You, the owner, are the last and most crucial link in a chain. The chain's only purpose is provide a "happily-ever-after" for a dog that desperately deserves one. Can you be that happily-ever-after, even for a dog that may have some rough edges?

Ask yourself these questions:

Do I really care what color the coat is, what sex it is or how many pounds it weighs? If so, you really want a puppy from a breeder, not a rescue. Rescue dogs rarely conform to an exact type.

Am I looking to save money?

You may not save money buying a rescued dog, even though the initial cost could be $700 or $800 less than from a breeder. Rescue dogs often need more medical care because of the abuse and neglect they suffered before.

Is my life relatively stable and my household relatively quiet? All abused creatures, whether dog or human, crave and need an unusually organized household. Many people can be good parents to a rescue dog. But perhaps the best potential parent of all is an older person or couple whose children are grown, and who has time and patience to devote to the dog's mental and physical healing.

Can I provide regular medical care and regular grooming? The deepest wish in the heart of the Dog Rescue folks is each of their dogs never has to go through another minute of hunger, discomfort or pain again.

When dogs are starved, they sometimes have incontinence problems that heal only slowly. They may need more regular teeth cleaning than a continually cared-for dog. Some need a house training refresher when former owners didn't bother. Most were never clipped or groomed, even in the non-shedding breeds. Do you have the time and resources to keep your dog totally safe and comfortable?

Can I consider the need and adopt a boy rescue, or an older rescue? For reasons not entirely clear, many potential adopters go
for girl dogs. There's no logic to this: all rescue dogs are spayed or neutered, and boys are as intelligent, witty, loyal, well-behaved and loving as their female counterparts. Perhaps it's just that the rescue impulse leads us to think of "damsels in distress"!

At any rate, that adorable boy that needs a home really deserves your attention. Someone less educated might pass him by for reasons they don't fully understand.

The upshot is, a rescue dog can make the best pet you've ever had. He understands exactly what you're giving him, since he didn't have it before. Your newest family member will offer you an overabundance of loyalty for the rest of his days.

How can I help with Dog Rescues?

Dog Rescues are always looking for help. Of course, they need financial contributions, and kennel and medical supplies. They also need 'foster moms' who perform the difficult task of patiently rendering a dog adoptable, then giving it up to its final owner! So if you have skills in this area and want to help, contact the small and amazing group of volunteers that make up your local Dog Rescue.
———————————————————-
Blake Kritzberg is happily Mom to a rescue dog, and
proprietor of Poodle-oo: Fashion for the Toy Dog Breeds.
http://www.poodle-oo.com

Published by permission of IdeaMarketers.com
———————————————————-

Tags: choosing a dog, dog breeds, dog rescue, how to choose a dog, rescue dog, shelter dog

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Is your puppy having urination problems such as excessive urination, lethargy, pain while urinating, producing small amounts of urine, smelly urine, or worse, bloody urine or producing no urine at all? The urinating problem of your puppy may be caused by puppy urinary infections.

Puppy urinary infections can cause a lot of discomfort to the pet. Likewise, these conditions can cause headaches to the owners. Since puppies with infections go through so much pain, owners have all the right in the world to worry and fret. If you have a puppy and it is exhibiting the above-mentioned symptoms, you would likely panic and give the puppy treatment which you think is best to help alleviate his condition. However, before you give your puppy any treatment, remember that anything you give without prescription from a professional may only aggravate the condition of your puppy. Hence, instead of attempting to heal the puppy’s discomfort yourself, seek the help of the vet. Proper diagnosis will help determine the right treatment.

The vet will likely perform physical examination and urinalysis to determine the cause of the puppy’s urination problems. If bacteria are the culprit, the vet will likely prescribe antibiotics especially when the condition has reached its advanced stage, posing a great threat to the puppy. However, antibiotics can only suppress the growth and action of bacteria; they cannot kill bacteria outright. Hence, there is always a possibility of recurrence of infection.

To prevent the recurrence of puppy urinary infections, try changing your puppy’s diet. If he was into dry puppy food, give him wet puppy food instead. Especially avoid giving your puppy grain-based foods as these kinds of food are thought to cause imbalance in the pH level of the puppy’s urine, leading to the recurrence of puppy urinary infection. Moreover, make sure that your puppy is getting enough clean water inside its system. Increased water intake can help flush out the bacteria and toxins that may have infiltrated and accumulated in the puppy’s urinary system. However, do not just give it ANY kind of water. Tap water is a no-no for a puppy with urinary infection because it may contain harsh contaminants and bacteria that may only aggravate the puppy’s condition. Give it filtered water, instead.

Homeopathic remedies are also a good option. Aside from being affordable, homeopathic remedies have been proven to be effective in treating and preventing puppy urinary infections. This holistic mode of treatment and prevention is safe, too, so you do not have to worry about dangerous side effects and over doses. Uva ursi, cantharis, and berberis vulgaris are among the known homeopathic ingredients. Homeopathic remedies can be bought over-the-counter and in online stores at a conveniently fair price.

Homeopathic remedies are, however, quite different from home-made or do-it-yourself treatment. Do not attempt to concoct your own formula to treat puppy urinary infections. A slight mistake in the dose or mixture may create more damage than good. It is wiser to use a formula that has already been proven effective and safe.

Now that you have read the whole article, perhaps you now have an idea on how to treat puppy urinary infections. Take these pointers in mind and help your puppy achieve overall good health.

- Melissa Simmonds

Melissa Simmonds is a dog enthusiast, much like me! She tells me she has carried out an informal study on dogs and puppies and has browsed related topics on puppy urinary infections. If you are looking for more information on puppy urinary infection and general puppy health, visit the most comprehensive resource online – yes, it's HealthierDogs.com!

But meanwhile, head on over to that online store for homeopathic remedies, and check out the homeopathic puppy urinary infection prevention remedy – click here.

Tags: puppy urinary infection, puppy urinating problem, puppy urination problem, puppy UTI, UTI in puppy

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