Protecting Your Dog

Great Info from Dr. Jon:

"It's important to keep comprehensive records for your dog, just as you do for other family members. Medical and licensing records as well as adoption documents and breeding papers belong in these files. Key information about your dog should also be included in an emergency kit with other essential family papers. If there is a natural disaster, if your pet is missing or if something should happen to you, your dog's records are invaluable. You might also need to provide this information to pet sitters, boarding kennels or a new veterinarian. If you will be traveling with your dog, plan on taking his records along with you, especially if you will be traveling to a foreign country. Many countries have strict policies that require an extensive history of your pet's background and health.What should you have in your dog's information kit?

1. IN a folder: You should keep a copy of your dog's purchase papers or adoption contract, breeding contract, bill of sale, vaccine and parasite control records, veterinary insurance record, veterinary receipts, rabies tag information and dog license. Include photos from various angles that clearly show coat type and coloring, close-ups of the face and any exceptional physical characteristics. In the past few years, shelters in disaster areas have begun posting lost and found pet pictures on the Internet.

2. ON your dog. If disaster strikes and a dog is separated from his owner, it's surprising how difficult it can be to reunite them. Your dog should have a collar tag that states the dog's name, your name, your phone number and your city of residence. Your address also is recommended.

3. Microchip. Have a microchip implanted in your dog for added protection. Use the brand that is most widely used in your area. If your dog loses his collar, this is a good way to ensure that you can still be reunited with your pet."

Your Favorite Dog Food

I'm a little confused on what to feed my dog, Brooklyn. I've visited pet supply stores (not Petco or Petsmart) but local stores. I've talked to many, many people. Some say only raw which is expensive if you buy the frozen patties. I was then told by someone else don't get the frozen patties because of bacteria that grows rampant. The best is the air dried raw mine came from New Zealand. I'd love any comments on what you're feeding your dog.

Puppy Potty Training

Teaching your healthy puppy to "not" potty in the house may be easier than you think.

Factors to consider when training:

1. Sanitation

Clean of all interior surfaces where your dog has had an "accident". Use an enzymatic cleaner made specifically for use with dogs. Your usual cleaner will not work, but here are many products on the market.

2. Record pup's food & water intake.

Tracking your dog's food and water intake along with his elimination will help you predict his behavior better.

3. Keep a record of puppy's potty schedule and puppy's behavior before he goes potty

If you watch your dog carefully, you may notice that he exhibits certain behaviors before going to the bathroom. Immediately take your dog to the appropriate area when you see the signs.

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4. Reinforce Appropriate Behavior.

When you pup goes potty in the area that you have designated for him, reward, reward, reward. Lots of love and maybe a training treat.

Do not scold or reprimand for unacceptable behavior. That can cause the existing problem behavior to become worse. I remember when the school of thought was: "Rub your dog's nose in the poop or pee" NEVER do that.

Happy Training!

Fire Cuased by Whirlpool Refigerator results in Woman's Death

This is what one newspaper article said about my Mom's (Louise Palmer Korieba)death. The refrigerator that Fire Marshal Barry Overman refers to is a Roper Refrigerator manufactured by Whirlpool.

Reported by: Patrick Terpstra Dec.18,2007
An 87-year-old Elizabeth City woman died Tuesday morning after her home caught fire, despite a frantic attempt by neighbors to save her.
Motre Reid, who lives next to the home on Tuscarora Avenue, noticed smoke pouring out of the house around 9:00 a.m.
"I tried to get in and find her, but I couldn't," he said. "I had to come back out because the smoke overpowered me."
His step-daughter, Kiara Riddick, tried to go in, but the smoke overpowered her, as well.
The two of them waited for the firefighters to arrive, but it was too late.
"It's just a tragedy that we lost her," said Riddick. "The neighborhood will not be the same without her."
Elizabeth City,NC Fire Marshal Barry Overman said the fire started in the refrigerator. It was a minor fire, but was accompanied with a lethal dose of smoke.



Firefighters found the woman, identified as Louise Palmer Koreiba, on a couch in a den.
They pulled her out of the house and performed CPR in the front yard, but she never regained consciousness.
Overman said that though the rescue attempt was selfless, it was a dangerous gamble.
"We tell everybody, every day, then if I were to be out somewhere and not have the big red trucks with me, I'd probably do the same thing," he said.
Koreiba had no local family, so firefighters boarded up the house, a sudden and painful reminder of the neighborhood's loss.
"I believe we could've saved her if we were there earlier," said Riddick. "We probably could've saved her eventually."
Firefighters found a smoke detector in the house, but it was so melted, it was impossible to determine whether it was working.

Mom didn't have any family in North Carolina as we are all in California. She had two grandsons, Jay and Stevie, that loved her very much. Of course there's me, her only child.We talked everyday on the phone. There are still times that I reach for the phone to call her. She had spent the entire month of August with us a few months before her death and I will treasure that time forever.

Dogs and the Fourth of July

On the Fourth of July there is an extremely high rate of dogs that go missing. That's because a lot of dogs get frightened by fireworks and run away to escape the source of their stress. While you're having a barbecue and celebrating don't forget your best friend. Please make sure your dog is wearing an Id tag or collar with name and address. Adding a microchip is even better.

Don't bring dogs out to watch fireworks displays. The explosive sounds and flashing lights could frightened your pup enough to cause him to slip out his collar and run away. And don't leave dogs outdoors unattended; even in a fenced-in yard your dog could panic and manage to find a way to escape and become lost.

We know that a dog's sense of hearing is so much more sensitive than ours, so to counteract the noise from the fireworks try some calming music. Finally, provide a cool, tiled surface, such as the kitchen for him to relax and calm down where it's cool.

Many veterinarians will prescribe medication. I'm against that, but you should check with your vet and do what you feel is best for your pooch.

Now go and have a Happy Fourth of July!

Dog Influenza

Several years ago an influenza virus mysteriously jumped from horses to canines (or so the scientific community believes) It was just announced that there is a new outbreak of "dog flu". KCBS in Los Angeles stated that there are outbreaks in 30 states, most on the east coast.

But there is good news:

The first vaccine against canine influenza virus (CIV) has been announced following the grant a conditional product license by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for use by veterinarians in the United States.
“Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection that has a significant impact on dogs housed in shelters, kennels and communal facilities,” said Cynda Crawford, D.V.M., Ph.D., University of Florida, Clinical Assistant Professor of Shelter Medicine. “The availability of a vaccine can help prevent the medical, financial and emotional costs associated with this new virus.”

Kennel Cough or Bronchitis

Vets are now calling Kennel Cough: Bronchitis.

Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers be aware of other dogs when walking a dog that is getting over Bronchitis. Don't allow contact with other dogs on your daily walks.

Clinical signs of infections occur 2-14 days after exposure, and if uncomplicated with other agents, symptoms will last around 10 days. However, after the infection has been resolved, the affected animal will continue to shed the bacteria for 6 to 14 weeks and can spread the disease to other susceptible animals during that time.

The bronchitis in dogs (kennel cough) is not contagious to humans (unless they have weakened immune systems) but is highly contagious to other dogs.

If you have any info on Kennel Cough, please stop by and leave your comments.

Dehydration Test

Dehydration Test-

OF the many illnesses that your pet can get, there is one VERY common symptom that you need to be aware of..Dehydration. In serious diseases such as Parvovirus, it is OFTEN the dehydration that is fatal. And subclinically, treating dehydration helps your dog or cat's immune system respond better to most diseases.

First you need to know HOW to decide: It is of utmost importance for your pet not to become dehydrated.

The Skin

The first test for dehydration is 'tenting' the skin. Pinch the skin between your pet's shoulder blades and see how quickly it springs back. It should go back in less than 5 seconds. If the skin tent is prolonged, then your pet is dehydrated.

The Eyes

Your pet's eyes will be sunken into their head. Specifically, the eyes recede into the eye socket. It is often seen with dehydrated cats.

Capillary Refill

Your pet's gums are the best indicator of dehydration. Lift your pet's lips to expose the gums (pink tissue above the teeth). Place your index finger on the gums and press your finger flat to the gum. This temporarily squeezes blood in that spot out of the small blood vessels (capillaries). When you lift your finger, the blood should return in less than 2 seconds. This response will be delayed in a dehydrated pet.

Gum moisture

The gums often feel dry and tacky in a dehydrated pet. When you pull your index finger away from the gums, it should feel wet, and easily slide away. In a dehydrated pet, your finger will stick to the gums.

WHAT you can do if this happens?

ON THE ROCKS:

Some dogs will readily lick ice cubes when they are dehydrated, even if they are reluctant to drink water. Float the ice in their water bowl.

SQUIRT IT IN

Pets that are more severely dehydrated will benefit from additional electrolytes. 'Pedialyte' is an oral electrolyte re-hydration supplement for children. A needle-less syringe or a turkey baster works well. Insert the tip into the center of your pet's mouth. Tilt his head back, hold his mouth closed and squirt in the fluid. A safe rule of thumb is to give 30 ml (2 tablespoons) per 10 lbs of weight every hour. Even pets that have allergies can get dehydrated- ALL of the scratching causes them to NOT drink as much. They are then MORE prone to secondary skin infections.So practice some of dehydration tests on your pet.

Thanks to Dr. Jones

Dogs Throwing Up

On Monday (June 22,2009) I went to walk my Australian Shepherd, she had been throwing up all night. She didn't have any other symptoms & was ready for a walk. I wouldn't have walked her anyway, but her owner was taking her to the vet. Thank goodness! Bella was diagnosed with Bronchitis.

What Would You Do if Your Dog Vomits

What would you do if your dog vomits?

How you handle a dog that vomits depends on the number of time that your dog vomits. If only once or twice then it's probably no big deal as long as everything else appears normal. By normal I mean that your dog is not showing signs of diarrhea, weakness, and/or is lethargic. Keep an eye on your dog for these symptoms. Don't give water or any food for a couple of hours. After that begin with small amounts.

If vomiting continues consult your vet.

http://www.TheDogWalkerCa.com

Lions in Kenya are dying horrific deaths from carbofuran pesticide poisoning, a toxic chemical used on crops. Unfortunately, once one animal has been poisoned, its carcass attracts other wildlife, poisoning animals and predators up the food chain – including the iconic and beautiful African lions. Urge Kenya to enact a ban on carbofuran pesticide and protect these majestic, wild lions »Lions are a vulnerable species that depend on a wide variety of wildlife to survive. With a diet that ranges from wildebeest and hippos to smaller animals such as hares and birds, they are at tremendous risk of poisoning from carbofuran pesticide. While the Kenyan government has stopped allowing sales of the pesticide in their country, some members of Kenya's parliament still oppose a ban of the pesticide. As home to the most iconic and celebrated wildlife on the African continent, it is important that Kenya ban this poison immediately. Please take action today http://www.care2.com/go/z/e/AFnc4/zJdB/bE8A7 Thanks to Natasha at Care2 Team

Last Minute Pet Sitting

Why do people that have been planning a vacation or even a short "get-a-way" wait until the day before they are leaving to call a pet sitter/dog walker? They're getting ready to leave one of their most precious possessions, their pet, with a complete stranger. I was called by two different clients the day before their departure within days of each other. I was so stressed out because of this last minute run for the initial consultation, getting key,etc that I decided I will no longer take last minute clients.

If someone is looking for a pet sitter/dog walker they need to do their research. Checking references can't be done last minute. Not every pet sitter/dog walker fits with every pet. There are many factor involved: is the pet sitter insured? what hours will the pet sitter be willing to go to the pet's home?etc.

I'd like to educate pet owners to have a "meet & greet" early on. One never knows what will come up. If a pet owner has a pet sitter lined up for emergencies then there is one less thing to worry about and that is, "Who will care for my pets, oh no?"

Free Training Tips

I found a pretty good site that offers free training tips for puppies and dogs. http://www.911dogwizard.com/

Comment and let me know if you find it useful.

Petsitting and the Economy

It's finally hit my business, the sagging economy. I've lost two dogs that I walk daily. One client was laid off & the other is just cutting back. If you have any economic woes that you want to share then I'd love to hear them. Any suggestions for obtaining more clients? I know that things are bad for everyone but cutting back on dog walking is detrimental to dogs. They really need to walk everyday. As I've said before it's not just for exercise but for the dog's mental well being.

http://www.TheDogWalkerCa.com

Pet Sitting-Dog Walking Overnight

So many friends have asked me, " How can you sleep in another person's bed?" That's the reaction I get when I explain that I have to pet sit overnight for one of my dogs. I never thought of it until so many friends turned up their noses. The sheets are always fresh when I go for pet sitting. I have one client that even labels my towel with "Debbie's towel".

Well, I thought about it for a about 30 seconds and then I thought about all the hotels and motels that those friends, with the turned up noses, had slept in. God know what went on in some of those rooms. Now when someone says "OH, you sleep in other people's beds and with the dogs?" I just smile and think about the "dogs" that have slept in some of those hotel rooms?

http://thedogwalkerca.com/

Oversized Post Cards

http://www.TheDogWalkerCa.com

I've been really busy today walking dogs & sending out over sized post cards to pet owners.

I thought I would stop by & share an idea that might help to get pet sitters & dog walker some more clients. Dogs that are licensed are a matter of public record, so in my area I contacted Records Coordinator for Orange County, CA. Animal Care. I had to pay for the list but I received 188 pages of dog owners with about 44 names per page.(I only asked for 2 different zip codes) Huntington Beach has a population of 200,000. I'll start working the other zips as soon as I finish the ones that I have. I've only send out 300 so for but out of those I have a new recurring client 5 days a week. The new dog has already paid on the investment. Now the rest is profit !

Avoid Dog Bites

According to Dr. Yin:

Since most dog aggression is due to fear or anxiety, it's essential for Pet Sitting Professionals to recognize the signs of fear and anxiety. The more blatant signs of fear are that the dog backs away from you, cowers, or puts its tail between its legs. But dogs exhibit more subtle signs too, such as averting their gaze, yawning, licking their lips, moving in slow motion or acting sleepy when they should be wide awake. Animal care workers should also be on alert for a slight lifting of the lip or a sudden tense, frozen posture. When a dog exhibiting these warning signs is pressured it is likely to result in a bite.

Set up a safe, comfortable environment. Many dogs are afraid of unfamiliar dogs and people and are uncomfortable in new environments. As a result it's essential to make the environment as calm and comfortable as possible. Once their fear and arousal levels rise, they'll be more likely to bite as the visit progresses.

Pet Sitting and Keys

For years I've been getting only one key from my clients and I keep them locked when not in use. I finally realized there is always the possibility that I might loose a key. What a disaster that would be. So I recommend that all pet sitters have two keys. I'm sure that clients will understand when you explain that you're getting an extra key because you care about their pets.

As the old saying goes, "You can never be too careful".

http://www.TheDogWalkerCa.com

Twitter

I'm wondering if all the time I spend on Twitter is really helping my pet sitting and dog walking business. I've learned a lot about dog training and met some great people with great ideas but don't see any new clients calling.

Please comment and let me know if Twitter is helping your business.

Feed Bruner

I'm having trouble with feed burner. I'm really not sure what it is. I seem to be jumping everywhere to figure out how to Blog. Really need some help here.

Pet Sitter Woes

Nothing worse that going to a new client to do a little pet sitting & some dog walking only to find that the new key doesn't work. It's happened to me and it's frightening. I've had to break in twice. Thank goodness the clients were glad that I did. Good for me that I wasn't arrested. So, a little advise: Whether you're a pet owner that's leaving your pet with a pet sitter or you're a pet sitter taking care of those pets. TRY the key 1st while client is there with you.
http://www.thedogwalkerca.com/

Raw Meat

My research keeps leading me to the idea that dogs and cats need raw meat for a longer life. Any imput on this?