Training older dogs.

What do you do when you have to train an adult dog? Many people think if you do not get a dog trained when it is a puppy, it will never be trained. Others disagree, feeling you really can train an old dog new tricks.

If you have ever had to do this, we would love to hear your method. We have done this and found we were following the same steps as we did with a puppy. Why would we do anything different?

Being sure a dog is house broken, or able to alert you to the fact it needs to go outside to potty, is a big step. Some breeds are more stubborn than others, but it can be done. You will need to have patience.

If you have an older dog that has suddenly been breaking the house rules, there may be a medical issue, and a veterinarian may need to be consulted. This may be a time when you should have pet insurance! If there is a medical issue it can get expensive.

If the dog is really resistant to outdoor training, you may have to start with a training pad. Many dogs will cooperate with these potty pads, and eventually be able to be fully trained outside.

Keep your dog well groomed and it's sleeping area clean. Always be sure it has clean water and fresh food!



All photos on this blog
are property of 
Pat Anthony.


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Traveling With Family Dogs.

Traveling with dogs can be more challenging than traveling with small children. This information may help make your travels more pleasant, for you and for Fido!

When traveling for several hours with your pet, a crate is strongly suggested for safety. Also, you will want a few chew toys, food, and water. Don’t forget the dog’s lead, blanket, and other comfort items.

If you will travel a considerable distance with your dog, for the sake of your pet, make sure all shots are up to date, and have your dog’s license and microchip information on the dog's collar. Pack any medications your dog takes. Ask your vet if the pet should be given a sedative before the trip. Be sure you have copies of all records that may be useful should your pet become ill.

Place a crate that your dog is familiar with on the back seat of your vehicle. Be sure to strap the crate to the seat. The crate should contain blankets, and some chew toys. Your pet can be allowed to go in and out of the crate when you feel it is safe. If your pet likes to roam the vehicle, closing the crate door is the better choice.

Many dogs are into the routine of being alone for several hours each day. The experience of having your company during these hours may cause your dog to be overexcited. This is one reason sedatives may be needed. Plan time for a stop about every 3 hours, allowing dogs to stretch and walk for a few minutes. Be sure to offer water at these stops, even if it was available to the pet while in your vehicle. You may want to limit feedings, as some dogs get motion sickness.

We keep a lead connected to dogs when traveling, so that in the event of an emergency, such as a fender bender, we can retrieve the dogs quickly. If your car door were to be open for a split second, a panicked dog could run into an area you are not familiar with, and the attached lead could help. Also, we carry pictures of the dogs with us, so that if something does happen, you can show people what the pooch looks like.

Keeping The Family Dog Happy.

Photo and
dog
property of T. Anthony

Keeping the family dog happy is usually fairly easy to do. One of the most important things to a dog's quality of life may be what food is offered, and the quality of drinking water given. Check with your vet to see which foods are recommended for your breed. Look on line for further information, then decide which food you will use.

Consider adding an automatic waterer for your dog. This will assure you the dog always has water, which is especially important if you are not available for several hours at a time. These are easy to clean, and easy to use.

Dogs need exercise, and so do we. Playing ball with your dog is good for you, too. Try giving 10-15 minutes each day to your dog. If the dog is home alone during the day, think about taking two 10 minute breaks with the dog before retiring for the night.

Dogs are social beings. They enjoy walking through the neighborhood, sniffing scents, barking at other dogs, and investigating new sites. Walk with them daily if you can. If you can't walk with your pet, consider hiring a teen in your area to do it for you.

Keep your dog well groomed. Not only does a dog need to be brushed, dogs need their ears cleaned, teeth brushed, nails clipped. If these are things you don't want to do, take your pet to a groomer.

Never ignore your dog's health issues. Keeping the family dog happy is easier if you bring health issues to the attention of a vet as soon as noticed. Shots should be up to date. If you have any questions about your pet’s behavior or health, make an appointment with your vet. Many vets will help you by phone if you are a regular at the office. If you don't have a vet now, you can find one in your area on the Internet.

Fleas don't need to be a part of your dog's life-ever. Speak to your vet about products available to help your dog avoid such pests. Remember, your dog can't take care of this. Your help is always needed.

There are many natural products to help with fleas and ticks. Search online before making a choice.

Exercise can energize your dog, and you. So you may not want to exercise too close to bedtime.