Barkstrom – Your Pet’s Concierge share tips to prevent common weather-related pet injuries.

Winter can be harsh on pets - especially small animals and smooth-coated breeds. Pets need special attention during the winter months.

Lesions on legs from stepping in snow holes, cuts on paws from walking on ice and illnesses from ingesting toxic chemicals are all typical winter-related pet-injuries. These are injuries that can be avoided if pet owners and caregivers are conscientious.

When possible, Barkstrom urges pet owners and pet-care providers to consider the following preventive measures for maximum health and safety for their pets this winter:

• Keep all young, old and short-haired pets inside. These types of pets are more vulnerable to cold weather and should not be left outside for long and without supervision.

• Provide shelter for any pets that are left outside. Add straw for additional insulation from the cold and provide a snug, warm bed that does not sit directly on the ground.

• Leave extra food and water in plastic bowls for any pets that are left outside.

• Learn the signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect you pet is suffering from either of these conditions.

• Clip the long hair on the bottom of your dog’s feet before the snow and ice fall. This will prevent the build up of ice balls which can be painful and difficult to remove.

• Trim your pet’s nails regularly during the winter. Pets may have a difficult time trying to maintain solid footing in icy conditions with long nails.

• Find a warm place for your pets to sleep. All pets, including small caged pets need to be kept warm and away from drafts.

• Place pet-safe wipes by the door. Ice-melting chemicals and salt can irritate and burn the pads of your pet’s paws. Thoroughly wipe off your pet’s paws when he comes inside.

• Use antifreeze and other household chemicals that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is extremely poisonous to pets.

• Get in the habit of banging on the hood of your car before starting the engine. Cats and wildlife seek warmth and climb into the engine during cold months.

• If winter travel will keep you away from your home and pets, book the services of a professional pet sitter in advance to ensure your pets are safe and comfortable.

For more information about Barkstrom – Your Pet’s Concierge, visit www.barkstrom.com or call 615.491.4605. To learn more about PSI visit www.petsit.com and BIC visit www.psi-ins.com.

The Amazon

Using punishment and other negative techniques, such as physically restraining your puppy or even just ignoring it for long periods of time, can result in your puppy suppressing it’s natural behaviors and becoming fearful, frustrated, and confused.  Your pup may even develop a feeling of depression and helplessness, where it gives up on ever getting anything correct, and this can eventually lead to unpredictably aggressive behavior!  This is obviously not what you want for your pup!

Find a trainer to help you with Positive Training Techniques.  This will ensure a happy healthy relationship between you and your pup!

Happy Training!

www.barkstrom.com

Pampered Pooch!

Creating the ideal puppy retreat of tranquility – combined with periods of entertainment to nourish your pup’s mind, exercise to keep your puppy fit, and good food to fill your puppy’s belly – really is a bonus. Get it right and your puppy will be happy……and so will you!!

Here are a few tips on having a Happy dog and a Happy you!

1. Think Dog!

a. Sometimes it’s tempting to pamper your puppy to the max, but as long as you consider your puppy’s needs in relation to what he is – a dog – all will be well. Your puppy won’t be any more content with a diamond collar than a nylon one: what IS important to him is that it fits properly and he can forget he’s wearing it. Just as the most expensive dog bed in world will be uninviting if it’s placed in a draft or next to a radiator that gets too hot!

b. It’s the little things you must consider to make sure your puppy feels your home is the best place your puppy can be.

2. Reality Check

a. Of course you can spoil your puppy, but make sure it’s on the right way. For example, you might imagine he would love to share your curry, washed down with a swig of beer and followed by dessert of chocolate cake. Being inherently greedy, most pups would scoff all this with relish – and ask for more. But this type of food is not good for him: in fact, chocolate can be fatal to dogs, young or old! At the very least. Such a spicy, boozy meal will cause flatulence, make your puppy feel bad, and upset your puppy’s stomach!

b. What your puppy will enjoy just as much, if not MORE because there are no unpleasant side effects, is five minutes playing with your puppy in the yard or even a 10 minute walk!

3. Room Service?

a. Puppies do NOT feel guilty, because they are unable to assimilate such a feeling. What they do display is FEAR, which many owners mistake for guilt. Similarly, many owners mistake pleading eyes at dinner for hunger, when in fact all your puppy is doing is TRAINING YOU in the art of room service!

b. Attributing human emotions and requirements (known as anthropomorphism) to a puppy is to everyone’s disadvantage. Treat your puppy like the dog it is, for everyone’s benefit.

A Happy Dog is a Happy Owner!

WWW.BARKSTROM.COM

When we take trips we are looking to save money in as many ways as possible, especially these days!  One expense you should think twice about is who looks after your pets.  Having a friend come by and check up on your animals is great in theory.  But in many cases your neighbor may not have proper pet care experience that a qualified professional will have, may get a little frustrated with frequent requests, no respect of your property, and laziness when it comes to exercising your pet!  There have even been cases to where the neighbor has forgotten to show up at all and gone out of town as well!  Of course there are horror stories that come along with any of this.

A few of the benefits of hiring a professional Pet Sitter

The Pet Sitter Will:

1.       Be prompt

2.       Let you know if anything is out of the ordinary

3.       Take extra security measures for your home that someone else may not think of.

4.       Quickly notice if anything is wrong with your pet

5.       Call your Vet or an Emergency Vet if needed and will have all numbers handy

6.       Have all Emergency Numbers at their fingertips

7.       Give a playtime with your dog alongside to exercising your dog.

The list could go on and on.  A pet sitter is a right choice when it comes to taking care of your companion.  Don’t skimp on this route.  Let a professional do their job! J

There are many different ways to exercise your pooch during these undesirable months.  Keep in mind to stay safe throughout these months.

A few tips on exercising you pup:

1. Play Fetch

- Inside or out this is a great way to burn off some extra steam or excess energy your dog may have.

2. Treadmill

- This may take a little while to get your dog accustomed to a treadmill but is a great way to exercise without going into harsh conditions.  This will also build a bond and give mental stimulation as well as physical exercise to tire your dog.

3. Chase

- Does your dog love to chase you or to be chased?  Running around is sure to tire your dog out.  But can you keep up?

4. Training

- Have you ever taken a training class and realized how pooped your pooch is after class?  This will happen with learning at home as well.  Do a few extra tricks a night or during the day to keep your dog on top of things and a little more tired.

One of my favorite sayings is, “A Tired Dog Is A Good Dog!”  Keep that phrase in mind when your dog gets a bit of the “Crazies” at night doing figure eights around your house.  If they are tired they are less likely to chew, destroy, and get into mischief.  So keep your dog exercised and healthy!

www.barkstrom.com

There are many things in the winter that can harm your pet.  You need to be aware of the extra precautions to take with your dog or cat.

Here are a few:

1.  Antifreeze

Antifreeze can be extremely harmful to your pet.  Dogs and cats alike are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of it.  So make sure if you spill any antifreeze on the floor to quickly clean it up because your cute four legged friend might decided to taste it!  If you suspect that your pet has come in contact with antifreeze, contact your Veterinarian Immediately!!!!!!

A safe alternative to Ethylene Glycol antifreeze is Propylene glycol.  It is a little more pricey but is worth the piece of mind!

2. Salt on the Roads

Salt used for de-icing roads are harsh on your dog’s paw pads.  This can lead to dry and cracked pads which will be very painful for your dog to walk on.  To prevent problems, wash your dog’s toes and pads with warm water after walks to remove any salt residue and dry them thoroughly.  Also, baby oil rubbed on and between your dog’s pads helps to keep the pad pliable and eliminate ice and snow build up.

3. Shivering

If you have a dog without an undercoat they may be a little chilled when you go out for your walks.  Smaller dogs in general have a difficult time keeping their body heat in anyways.  So buy your dog a Coat or a Sweater if he/she is shivering!  Evidentially their fur coat alone is not doing the job!

4. Exercise

Exercise is still very important to your pet.  Even with the winter in full blast your dog will become restless and possibly obese without the proper amount of exercise.  Dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter to pack on some extra lbs to stay warm.  So take your dog out for plenty of walks even if it is cold to keep your pet in shape!  Just make sure you are looking out for unusual signs from your dog!

When most people think of the Doberman Pinscher (normally shortened to Doberman) they think of a vicious guard dog, not a sweet lovable family dog.  This misconception of the Doberman is one reason so many are put down each year.  If properly bred and TRAINED the Doberman makes a wonderful family addition.  Keep in mind this breed is VERY intelligent so they need a “job”.  Providing training will give this dog a job to start out with, but you will need to find something else after Obedience training for this Brilliant breed.  Also making sure this breed has plenty of exercise is a must so it does not become one of those “vicious” Dobermans.  They are a very High energy dog so be ready to get some exercise in yourself.  They require a LOT of attention.

Here’s a little about their background.

The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany around 1900.  The man who wanted a medium sized guard dog and created this breed was the tax collector Louis Dobermann of Apolda, Germany.  Hence the name Doberman.  The breeds used to develop the Doberman may have included the Rottweiler, Old Shorthaired Shepherd, the Black and Tan Terrier and the German Pinscher.

Here’s an activity to do with your dog this week.

List 10 Things Your dog enjoys.  This can be anything from taking walks, favorite toy, eating breakfast or dinner, etc.

Once you have listed the 10 Things Your Dog Enjoys do this:

Have your dog say “Please”  For each one!

To have your dog to say please it can do something simple like sit.  If you would like to make it a little more challenging have your dog do 2 or more commands.

Doing this activity will teach your dog to respect you as a Pack Leader even more.  But remember to still make this fun for your dog and it will want to please you more and more each day!

I received this in an Email and thought I would share…….

A Pet’s 10 Commandments

1.  My life is likely to last 10-15 years.  Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me.  Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please.  Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone.  Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

~ I do not know who created this but it touched my heart.

www.barkstrom.com

The German Shepherd is #3 in the ranking of the most Popular Breed registered with the AKC.  When you think about this breed you are more than likely going to think of Police dogs.  There is a good reason for that.  The German Shepherd is the world’s leading breed used with the police and military because of its dependable and hard working nature.  The German Shepherd is very intelligent and that makes training very easy, and strongly recommended if you are planning on having one as a companion.  They will need plenty of daily exercise.  If the German Shepherd is under-exercised and/or not mentally challenged, it can become restless and destructive!  This breed will do best in an active family providing a job for it.

Grooming is another concern for most people.  With their thick coat they will shed quite a bit.  Brushing is a must with this breed.  Some people prefer to get their German Shepherds shaved during the warmer months, but not a necessity.  With the longer coated German Shepherds you will have to make sure there are no tangles that turn into mats with can cause infections and possibly behavior problems.  Other grooming is the same as with any dog, keep the ears clean and free of debris, dental hygiene, & regular nail trimming.

Brief History

The German Shepherd originated in Karksruhe, Germany by Captain Max von Stephanitz and a few other breeders.  They used long, wire and short-haired local herding and farm dogs to create the German Shepherd we know today.  In 1907, the first German Shepherd was exhibited in America.  The movies Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart are what sent this breed to be one of most common breeds today!

Here’s a Poem that I thought I should share………

A Dog’s Plea
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no hear in all the the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart in me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.

Speak to me often because your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps fall upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet. I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I thirst.

Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do the bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, my friend, when I am very old, and no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently.

I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands.

A Dog’t Friend

Teaching your new puppy to sit is one of the first things a new proud owner will do with their new companion! This is an exciting time for you and your puppy! So remember to have fun!
Beginning to teach Sit to your new companion:
1. Make it FUN! The more fun you make it the faster the pup will learn.
2. Use treats! Treats are a great way to lure in the right direction and reward your pup. The treats need to be small and something your pup loves. There are so many choices out there it may be hard to choose from, so just get a small package of treats at first, ask an associate at a pet store for some help. They usually know what is most popular.
3. Work with a hungry dog! A hungry dog will want to work harder for that treat! Also, it will be more focused. So right before breakfast or dinner is a perfect time! Use a little bit of their kibble instead of treats for the reward.
4. Lure into place! Luring into place with a treat will help the puppy learn while having fun. If you push the dog in the position you are wanting you make have to do that the rest of your dog’s life. Luring will let the puppy figure it out on its own!
5. Start with Sit. Take the treat at the puppy’s nose; bring the treat up and behind its head, still very close to the nose. This way the puppy will look up and follow the treat. While following the treat the puppy will magically Sit! Immediately give the puppy the treat and say good sit! After a couple of times of doing this, begin saying Sit before you lure in the position.
6. Say it Once! Do not repeat yourself! This one is hard! Only say the command one time! This way your puppy will learn Sit and not Sit Sit Sit! You will want your puppy to listen to you the first time every time, this will happen if you continue to make it fun and only say the command one time!
7. Introduce a Hand Signal. Your puppy is more visual than it is auditory! This means they are more likely to Watch you than to Listen to you! So introduce that hand signal! You will find yourself using it more than you use the verbal command. (Commonly used: Flat Palm Facing Up)

Remember have fun! If you find yourself getting frustrated take a breath and walk away. Your puppy will feel the frustration and become frustrated as well.
Happy Training!

www.barkstrom.com

The Yorkshire Terrier is more commonly known as the “Yorkie”.  The Yorkie is the second most popular breed among Americans according to the AKC’s Breed Registry.  It’s no surprise considering their personality, size and adorable factor.

A brief about their history:

Originally they were used in the city of Yorkshire, England in the nineteenth century within the clothing mills to catch rats.  That means they were mainly owned by the working class and not royalty!  But with their silky coats they soon became companions for the European high society.

Yorkie’s are easily adaptable to their surroundings.  Today they make wonderful pets.  But if you are thinking about acquiring one be sure not to mistake the small dogs as plain lap dogs.  Treat them like you would a larger dog.  Yorkie’s need plenty of exercise and could benefit from hunting games.  Also, they are not low maintenance when it comes to grooming.  Their hair is fine and will grow long.  This also means they must be brushed out every day!  So think about if you will have the time and energy to keep up with this high maintenance breed!