Daniel Stevens, who is he?

For people who have not been aware of him, Daniel Stevens is the hugely respected author who developed the tremendously successful dog training series entitled “Secrets to Dog Training” (formerly Sit, Stay, Fetch) Daniel Stevens works as a professional dog trainer who has years of knowledge working with all kinds of different dogs in various situations.

Daniel’s information has become very popular among dog owners because it very carefully and completely guides you all the way through each dilemma you could experience with your dog and describes how to have an understanding of your dog.

Daniel Stevens’ book does not just teach you how to train a dog, additionally, it addresses many other areas such as dog care, dog ownership, dog health problems, and innovative commands and tricks. The most frequent and most annoying dog difficulties in particular biting, barking, jumping up, digging, aggression, anxiety as well as basic disobedience are all covered in depth.

This unique manual actually does much more than just teach you how to train your dog – what’s more, it informs you of what you ought to be accomplishing as a dog owner.

“Secrets to Dog Training” is separated into 9 chapters. At first common facets of training dogs and some tips to totally understand dogs is dealt with. As the book progresses it turns to more involved dealing with essential dog commands, dog whispering, dog illnesses, plus it lastly concludes with a segment targeted on teaching your dog enhanced commands and tricks.

One of the things which I really like most about “StDT” is that the book is very well organized. It is extremely effortless to refer to and covers the greatest concerns in great depth.

The part concentrated on handling behavior problems is a good deal more in depth and focused than I’ve observed in many other training books. Case studies have also been documented for all 15 of the most well-known dog complaints.

“StDT” is not only a book. Daniel Stevens carries a crew of qualified support team who are superb with any constant challenges or fears you might have. I cannot bring to mind another animal training system that offers such in depth and on going help support.

“StDT” is continually developing as a program, as soon as fresh tips and instruction programs are added you are informed and kept updated with all the most recent training tactics.

Daniel has established an exceptional course in his book. As if that is not sufficient, when you purchase the program he gives you Complimentary Copies of the following books:

* 180 Gourmet Dog Food Recipes – Straightforward, fast, nutritious and cheap recipes your dog will adore * Top 20 Consultations – Immediate access to the 20 most frequently asked questions about training your dog * Secrets to Becoming the Alpha Dog – Learn why you’ve got to be the leader of the pack…not your dog * Dog Grooming Made Easy – learn how the pros groom dogs * All the House Training Methods and Tricks – How to easily and quickly house train your dog * A Quick Guide to Dog Aggression – Be able to fix your dogs aggression issues

These bonuses seriously top off what we have to say is the best quality, most comprehensive dog training guidebook available. Daniel Stevens leaves no stone unturned in offering you extremely high quality content presented in an easily understood and effective means.

Should I Get a Dog?

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They have enjoyed this status for a very long time, probably from the time 10,000 to 15,000 years ago when Stone Age cave dwellers lived and hunted with dogs.

If you think you want a dog, you’re following a well-established tradition.

Why You Might Want a Dog

There are a number of reasons that people think they might want a dog for a pet. The most universal is the desire for the companionship of an animal who will be a loyal friend for many years. Others think it would be nice to have a watchdog to guard the house, and some people are interested in participating in dog shows, agility trials or other organized activities.

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s important to determine if you can care for him properly. Dogs need several things from a pet parent:

Time

Commitment

Attention

For your dog to stay healthy, he will need to be fed correctly, exercised sufficiently, groomed regularly and taken to the vet for regular checkups and shots. If you want your dog to be well-mannered and a pleasure to be around, you will have to make sure he is thoroughly socialized and trained, which requires spending many hours with him. Dogs also need set schedules so they know when they’ll be fed and when they’ll be let out.

If you’re a very busy person who works long hours and travels a lot, dog ownership may not be for you.

Things to Consider Before You Buy a Dog

Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but before you even begin to think about what kind of dog you might want, you need to ask yourself some serious questions about how well your lifestyle will suit any dog.

Many people fall in love with a cute puppy at a pet store and bring it home only to face a brutal truth. That cute puppy will have to be taken out to relieve himself first thing in the morning. Every single morning. Even weekend mornings. Even if it’s raining or snowing or 100 degrees in the shade. And he’ll have to go out more than once a day, sometimes several times more than once, especially when he’s young.

That’s just the start. Here are some other things to seriously consider before plunging into dog ownership:

Allergies

A bad allergic reaction to dogs in a member of your family can result in your having to find a new home for the dog–a sad experience for everyone. Some individuals are severely allergic and can’t even live in a house where a dog has lived. Others are much less bothered and can make adjustments so that they can live comfortably with a pet. An allergy may be to the dog’s saliva, hair or dander. Not all dogs cause the same allergic reaction. Certain breeds are known to be less allergenic because they shed very little or not at all. These include the Chinese crested, which has no hair, and breeds, which can range in size, such as a Basenji, Bichon Frise, and a Standard Poodle.

What Do You Want in a Dog?

Is your main concern to have a house pet who will be a good companion? Do you want an athletic dog who can go with you when you run? Will you take your dog on camping trips and will he have to be big enough to carry his own food? Do you want a dog that can be a credible watchdog and guardian? Do you want to show the dog? Do you want to participate in agility, obedience or field trials? You will want to study the different breeds and then talk to breeders and members of local dog clubs to find out what characteristics will best fit your expectations.

Can Your Children Adjust?

Children love puppies, but both children and puppies need supervision. Kids can play too rough with a puppy, and a young child will not understand that the puppy is tired and needs to rest. A puppy who is hurt or tired of playing is likely to growl and snap, and sometimes bite, to get the child to leave him alone. An older dog can be a serious threat if he is not used to children. There is one rule NEVER to be broken: Babies and toddlers should never be left unsupervised with a dog, no matter how much you trust the dog.

Can Your Other Pets Adjust?

If you already have pets, you will need to consider how the dog will adjust to them and they to him. If you have cats that have never been around a dog, you may have a long period of adjustment or the combination may not work at all. Puppies will usually learn to live with cats if care is taken that the initial meeting is not too traumatic. If you are considering an older dog, try to find out how he has previously reacted to other pets.

How Much Space Do You Have for a Dog?

This is an important consideration. A large, active dog, such as a retriever or German shepherd can run and play in a large, fenced-in yard. Often, though, the dog doesn’t do much playing if you aren’t available to be with him, and he will simply lounge around on the grass just as he would if he were inside on his dog bed. Large dogs can be happy even in an apartment if they get a long walk or two every day.

Housing

Unless you live in the country and spend a great deal of time outside with your dog, he will not be happy as a strictly outdoor dog. Outside should be for playing and exercising. A dog should never be left outdoors in hot weather without shade and water or in cold weather without well-insulated shelter. If your dog spends much time outside, he will need a fenced-in yard or a large kennel.

Can You Afford a Dog?

Your dog will have to be fed and groomed and provided with toys and treats. You may want to take him to obedience classes. If you travel occasionally on business or you’re going on trips and can’t take your dog, you will need to arrange to board him or to hire a dog sitter who will take care of him in your home.

Veterinary Care

Your dog will need regular veterinary checkups, which will include vaccinations, worming and flea and tick prevention. A medical emergency can cost several hundred dollars. As your dog ages, he may develop chronic health conditions that require regular visits to the vet. Veterinary charges vary from city to city. If you have not owned a pet before, you might want to call to see what the rates are in your area.

Grooming

If you don’t have time to groom your dog, don’t have the facilities to give him a bath conveniently, or if he requires special grooming, you will need to pay for a professional groomer. You will also need brushes and combs for maintenance.

Licensing

Dogs are required to be licensed. Fees are set by the county or the city and vary widely. To find out about licensing, call your county animal control office. Your vet and the local animal shelter will also know where you should go to purchase a license.

Exercise and Companionship – Do You Have Time?

Some dogs need only a short walk once or twice a day, while others are built to run all day. Be honest when you consider what level of regular exercise will be comfortable for you. If you have a heavy work schedule, taking the dog for a walk in the evening may be a burden rather than a pleasure. An active dog who only gets real exercise on weekends and holidays is likely to be unhappy, not to mention bored and destructive. In addition to exercise, your dog needs time with you. If you have a full work schedule and a busy social life, your dog is likely to be lonely, bored and destructive.

Size and Energy Level of the Dog

Before you even think about getting a young, highly energetic dog, such as a golden retriever, you need to ask yourself if you are strong enough to control and exercise a dog that will want to run and play and that could easily knock you down by accident. Don’t buy a puppy that will turn into a 150-pound athlete if your energy level is more attuned to a stroll with a toy poodle.

Is Your Lifestyle Stable?

One common reason that dogs are given up to animal shelters is that the owner has had to move, and the new living quarters don’t allow pets. Or the owner has married, and the new spouse doesn’t like dogs. Are you likely to move frequently? Is your family life stable? Does your job require you to travel often or for long periods of time?

Puppy or Older Dog?

Most people automatically think about puppies when they think about getting a dog. While puppies are cute and fun, there are benefits in getting an older dog. It’s much easier to housetrain an older dog. Puppies don’t physically have the capacity for holding their urine for long period of time and must be taken out frequently. You will not have to wait for an older dog to grow up to see what size he will be or what kind of temperament he will have, and if you get your dog from an animal shelter or a rescue organization, you will probably be saving his life.

The First Steps

If after having read all this, you still want a dog, congratulations! You’re probably eager to take the first step, and you want to dash out to the pet store, or the breeder, or the shelter, or the rescue organization, but don’t rush out and pick up a dog just yet. It’s important that you take the time to read as much as you can about selecting, introducing and keeping a dog. Browse through the other articles on our web site. Check books out of the public library or visit a bookstore.

Consider what kind of dog you want. Do you want a purebred dog or a mix? Do you want a male or a female? Do you want a puppy or an older dog? Talk to other dog owners that you know. Where did they get their dogs and what was their experience? Where do you want to look for the perfect choice?

Once you decide to get a dog, choose an occasion to bring him home when you and your family will have time to give him plenty of attention; bringing him home at the start of a long weekend or a vacation, when you will have more time to spend at home with him, will definitely make the transition to his new home easier for him as well as his new family. Prepare for his arrival. You’ll need to know what to expect and how to care for him when he first comes into your life.

If you have carefully chosen your new canine friend and properly prepared for him, bringing him home can be one of the most joyful experiences of your life. He will become part of your family and will love you without reservation. Return his love, and he will really be your best friend.

shared by Bullie Pups R Us

When it comes to choosing the right kind of healthy dog food you may find that it is more difficult than you first thought. Certainly most of the dog foods that you find available in your local pet or grocery store contain large amounts of preservatives as well as being over processed. Therefore in order to help you find the most healthiest dog food for your beloved pet we provide you with some tips below.

Firstly you need to understand what your dog’s diet should be made up of. It is important that you provide your dog with ample amounts of protein (40%), fiber (30%) and starch (30%). Therefore look only for those dog foods which contain these amounts of ingredients within their formula. Also when looking at the label ensure that the first ingredient that is listed is some form of protein (pork, chicken etc) and is not made up from meat by products. You will often find that some of the cheaper dog foods will least a meat ingredient first but then just below will provide details of by products and fillers that have also been used to make the food that they produce. Be wary as this means that you will not be provided with sufficient amounts of meat (protein) which your dog requires to remain fit and healthy.

Secondly look at what preservatives the dog food manufacturers are producing. Certainly they are essential as they help to keep the food from going and so remaining edible. However they do not need to be ones which are made from artificial substances as these could actually cause serious health issues for your dog in later life. Instead look for those foods which use Vitamins E and C within them as they are not only great for preserving food but are also much better for your dog as well.

If you can afford to then choose only premium brand foods such as Eukanuba, Iams or Hill’s as these contain the most healthiest of all ingredients that you are likely to find in dog food today. Plus they also provide a wide range of foods that are suitable for dogs of all ages and when they reach certain stages in their lives.

However if you really want to ensure that your dog only eats healthy dog food then you could consider making your own. Today if you were to carry out a search online you will find that there are plenty of sites now offering a vast array of healthy dog food recipes and meal plans that you could try out and see which your dog prefers.

If you work more than 6 hours a day and own a dog, you need a dog walker!

Urban life can be hard for dogs. Many of us keep pets in cramped city apartments and work long hours, resulting in a dogs life which is a far cry from that of a rural or suburban dog who usually has an outside yard to roam during the day — or if they’re really lucky, acres of open land in which to frolic.

Yet there is no reason why a city dog cannot enjoy a fantastic quality of life. Living in the city has its disadvantages but also brings with it levels of stimulation — sights, sounds and smells — which suburban or rural dogs never get to experience. City dogs are also also blessed with far more social opportunities, whether they be with other dogs on the street or with a pack of their buddies at the local dog park or dog run.

But many owners work long hours and enjoy active social lives, meaning long periods in which their pets are alone. For a dog, this means hours of inactivity — especially in a small apartment or studio which has little space to play or run.

For this reason, most urban dog owners hire a dog walker. Having someone take your dog out for exercise and relief at least once a day makes all the difference. It breaks up those long solitary hours and gives your dog a chance to get out into the fresh air, stretch their legs and burn off some of the calories they have ingested for breakfast. For many dogs, their daytime dog walker is their daytime buddy.

But with the profession of dog walking becoming more and more popular, there are increasing numbers of dog walkers to choose from in cities. Dog walking and pet sitting services are springing up everywhere and in most cities dog owners are spoiled for choice. Yet all dog walking services are not the same — there are differences in quality and type of services provided. Here are some tips for choosing the right dog walker for you:

• Make sure you know exactly what you want before you start looking

  It’s important to be clear about the kind of service you want. A large, established dog walking service is likely to provide peace of mind and more security, but if they’re too big you may find their services a little too impersonal — some guarantee the same walker every day, but some don’t. If you want your walker and your dog to build a friendly, trusting relationship, it’s worth asking about this. A good dog walking service will assign a regular dog walker to your dog and inform you of any changes in staffing well ahead of time. The downside is that they may be slightly less flexible with scheduling.

  On the other hand, a local independent dog walker who works alone is almost guaranteed to build a close relationship with your dog and you are likely to build a friendly relationship with them yourself, which brings familiarity and peace of mind. The disadvantage is that lone walkers rarely have anyone to provide a back up should they become sick or take a vacation.

• Establish an ideal schedule, then be prepared to compromise

  Let’s face it, the vast majority of dog owners would prefer their dog to be walked around the middle of the day, which generally means between 11am and 3pm in the dog walking business. This means that midday time slots are in great demand and it’s unlikely that you’ll find someone who can promise your ideal schedule. Be prepared to compromise with a leeway of around an hour either side of your ideal. Additionally, even when you settle on a time you should be aware that dog walking is a profession the nature of which means it is almost impossible to stick to a schedule 100% accurately every day. Walkers often have to travel between dogs and can be held up by a million and one different situations. Don’t be too disappointed if your dog walker arrives a little early or late every day — most of the time it cannot be helped. Be suspicious of any dog walking service that promises punctuality to the minute — most of the time they’re not being honest with you!

• Dog walking in packs or individually?

  This is where opinion is split firmly down the middle! It’s a common sight in urban centers like New York City to see pack walkers with up to twelve dogs at a time — but is this really what you want for your dog? The advantage to this kind of service is primarily price — pack walk rates are sometimes half the price of individual or small group walks and sometimes last longer. On the negative side, your dog will not receive anywhere near the same level of attention it would in a smaller group or alone — and often much of the walk is spent sitting tied up in large groups on the sidewalk as the dog walker takes a dog upstairs to its apartment. There is no doubt that there is a strong social aspect to such walks which many dogs enjoy, but for the most part the majority of dog owners prefer their dogs to be walked in smaller packs or alone. Many people also worry about dogs fighting in large packs and while this is rare, it does sometimes happen.

  An individual, private walk brings with it the walkers undivided attention, but you should also consider that most dogs appreciate some kind of socialization — so consider choosing a service which walks pairs or small groups of no more than three. Many dog walkers will tell you that dogs who have behavioral “issues” on the street with their owners benefit greatly from being walked with another dog, whose presence often acts to “center” the other dog and induce a good level of focus and attention. However, there is no avoiding the fact that some dogs just will not abide the company of other dogs no matter what! At the end of the day you know your own dog better than anyone and the decision is entirely yours to make.

• Conduct interviews in person

  Choosing a dog walker is an important decision to make, not least because you’re entrusting the welfare of your precious pet to a stranger but also because the service entails allowing someone access to your apartment on a daily basis. For this reason, you should always look into a number of services and insist on meeting first the business owner, then should you decide to go ahead and use the service, the walker who will be assigned to your dog. A good service will allow you to meet the walker at no cost to yourself. Never feel pressured into agreeing to a schedule over the telephone — you’ll feel much better when you know who you’re dealing with personally. All good dog walking services appreciate that you’re looking around and shopping for a service and will be happy to submit their pitch to compete with others.

  Don’t be surprised or feel offended if the business owner will not give you full contact details of the walker however — they’re not trying to put one over on you. It’s standard practice in the business to insist that the client conduct all communication (schedule changes, updates etc) through the business owner themselves. This ensures that the owner is kept “in the loop” and is always aware of what’s going on. If you do have the walkers contact details however, it is always good practice to notify the owner of all communication between you to prevent misunderstandings or confusion later.

• Have questions prepared in advance

  Before you conduct an interview, make sure you have everything you’re going to ask written down and prepared beforehand. Ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable. Don’t be afraid to bombard the business owner or walker with requests for information regarding the nature of their service, their philosophy, their practices, their policy and their history. A good dog walking service will also ask you questions about exactly what you want, your likes and dislikes — and most of all, your dog. Make sure they ask you about your dogs nature and about health issues which may be relevant. If they take notes, that’s a good thing! A good dog walking service will keep information about your dog on file, including medical history, favorite treats, command words, things to watch out for, vets information etc. If they don’t seem interested in any of this information then it’s probably a good idea to choose another service.

  Be sure to get everything out in the open regarding prices and fees. Make certain you’re both on the same page regarding rates and frequency of payment, about any hidden or supplementary fees (many dog walking services have a surcharge for early morning, evening and weekend walks), about their range of availability (do they cover evenings or weekends?) and about their policy regarding cancellations (most services request that you give 24 hours notice to avoid being charged). The last thing you want is to spoil a good relationship with a reliable dog walking service due to a misunderstanding later which should have been cleared up at the beginning.

• Insist on seeing the walker on a trial walk

  It’s very important that your dog walker both meets the dog beforehand — and seeing them “in action” with your dog will give you great peace of mind. Not all dog walkers are the same! Some people have a natural affinity with animals and you will see this upon observing dog walker and dog together. Dogs usually have great judgment when it comes to humans and if the walker loves dogs, you’ll see it in the way your dog reacts to them. Seeing them walking together on the street is important and you should check to see that they have adequate control skills and that they hold the leash securely. If the walker grips the leash halfheartedly with three fingers and allows your dog to run around in circles, give them a miss! The safety and well being of your dog comes first and foremost. It’s also a good idea to see how they handle situations with other dogs in the street — a good walker will ask the other owner whether their dog is friendly, and allow your dog to approach cautiously should they wish to sniff each other. Additionally, make sure they pick up after your dog and don’t allow them to spray inappropriate things like cars, doors — and especially lampposts which may carry live current!

• Establish acceptable dog walking routes from the start

  It’s important that you let your walker know exactly where you do and don’t find acceptable for your dog to go. If there is a dog park or run nearby, let your walker know whether or not you’re happy with them taking your dog there during the day. Many owners prefer that their dogs are taken to a run where they can play with other dogs, but only you know whether or not your dog is suitable for this kind of socialization. Some walkers like to take a bunch of dogs to the run and spend the next hour sitting down watching them play — if you would prefer a more disciplined kind of street walk then make this clear from the start.

• Ask for references and make sure they’re insured and bonded

  Every good dog walking service can supply you with references — other owners who have used their services regularly and are happy. Get the references, and call them! You’ll feel so much better in the long run. It’s also a good idea to ask whether they’re insured and bonded and if so, to let you see their insurance certificates. Their insurance should cover both medical bills should anything happen to your dog in their care, but also liability costs should your dog ever injure someone on the street or cause an accident. Dog walkers rarely have to use their insurance but you’ll feel a lot better knowing it’s there. The fact that they have taken the trouble to get insured is also a good sign that they take the business seriously and are in it for the duration!

• If you’re worried about allowing someone access to your apartment, set up a web camera!

  This is a controversial issue with many dog walking services, but more and more home service providers are beginning to accept that home owners feel secure having a small web camera set up to make sure that nothing untoward happens while they’re at work. It’s also great to be able to see what your dog gets up to during the day! If you are going to set up a camera then it’s common decency to inform your walker first. Tell them that you have the camera so that you can watch the dog while you’re at work and try not to emphasize the part about checking up on them! Most dog walkers will be fine with this and if they are not — well, perhaps it’s time to seek out someone new.

• Relax!

  Nobody finds choosing a dog walker easy. It’s very common for first time owners to worry themselves half to death for the first few weeks wondering if their dog is OK and that everything is going well. However, if you have followed the steps above and taken the time to choose the walker you’re happiest with, you’ll find that your worry subsides after a couple of weeks and you can get down to the business of going about your day and taking for granted that your dog is in good hands. Do your best to build a friendly relationship with your dog walking service — you’ll feel so much better in the long run. Remember — if they’re dog lovers, they’re going to end up building an attachment to your dog which rivals yours. This is also worth thinking about should you ever wish to discontinue a long running relationship — make sure you give the walker a chance to say “goodbye” to your dog and don’t be surprised if they request photos and even shed a few tears on their last walk together!

So where to start looking? There are plenty of ways to find a dog walker:

• Check online via a search engine
• Check online via local classified listings like “Craigslist”
• Ask at pet stores and vets offices for the business cards of local services
• Check notice boards in pet stores
• Ask other dog owners, or stop walkers on the street
• Ask at your local dog run or dog park
• Ask in doorman apartment buildings for the names of reputable neighborhood walkers and services

All in all, finding a suitable dog walker for your beloved is not something to be taken lightly — although nor should it be something to overly stress about. At the end of the day, just remember that whatever your opinion of your walker, the most important opinion is that of your dog! A good dog walking service will leave your dog exercised, relieved and above all safe and happy — something which you’ll be able to judge for yourself as soon as you walk through the front door.

Owning a pet is a huge responsibility. Of course, there are numerous tasks pet owners need to do in order to accommodate the needs of their pets, most especially dogs. For one, pet owners need to spend time to play with their pets. Next, tasks from bathing and even walking are also important. And, bringing pets to a pet clinic is also essential. However, there are some dogs that are afraid of the environment outside your house. Thus, there are instances when bringing them to a clinic or perhaps a simple stroll in the park can be stressful. Luckily, there are dog accessories like dog sling carriers that can be used to provide safety and protection to your dogs. Apart from that, dog sling carriers also provide other features. Below are some of the following.

Use sling carriers for any size of dog

One of the best features of making use of dog sling carriers is you can use it for any size of dogs. There are cases when you own numerous dogs with different breeds and sizes. Therefore, pet owners need to purchase numerous sizes of carriers. Luckily, sling carriers can be adjusted to cater to the size of your pet.

Secure your dog completely

Another benefit of using such carrier is you can provide complete security to your pets. Some dogs are anxious in crowded, noisy places. In addition, some dogs are also energetic and even dangerous most especially if they do not know the person. So, making use of carriers for dogs can help you ensure that your dog and other individuals are safe.

Dog sling carriers are lightweight

With the increasing demand of dog carriers, there are numerous carriers pet owners can choose from. However, most carriers are heavy and bulky. Not to mention, some carriers cannot be used in tight areas. By investing in sling carriers for dogs, you can easily bring your pet with you. In addition, carriers can also be stored easily since it is created from fabric. Hence, you can easily fold and store it.

Provides a wonderful style

Finally, with the use of dog carriers, you do not need to compromise your style since sling carriers are very stylish. As a result, any type of clothing can be complemented which can also boost your confidence as you walk with your pet

With all these wonderful benefits, pet owners can enjoy a wonderful day outdoors with their pets easily. Click here for more.

Many people love both dogs and cats. They feel that they cannot have both pets in the home since usually dogs and cats do not get along. With the right socialization dogs and cats can live together in harmony. Here are some tips to help dogs and cats get along well.

• When bringing a cat or dog into the home with an existing pet, make sure there is room to give them some space. Until the pets get used to each other they may need to be kept apart. The animals should be kept separated for three days until they meet face to face. This will allow them to get the chance to know the smells and will allow the new pet to get used to their home.
• To help familiarize the animals with their smells, pet the dog and allow the cat to smell your hand. Do the same with the dog. Also change the rooms that the animals are kept in. Allow the dog to go into the room that the cat was kept in and the cat should go where the dog was staying. This will also give them a chance to know the smells. Once the animals have become familiar with their scent, allow them to look at each other under the door. They will be able to see each other, but will not be allow to run or attack each other.
• When introducing the animals make sure they are relaxed. If the cat runs away then it is not time for the introduction. Once the cat is calm; hold it. Another family member should bring the dog in the room on a leash. Allow them to look at each other and smell each other. Allow them to look and get close as well.
• Be sure to show each animal love and affection. Animals, like humans, can become jealous, and will compete for the attention of their owner. Both pets need to be loved and shown they do not have to compete for your attention.
• Even if the dog and the cat seem to be getting along it is important to keep them separate when no one is home. This will help prevent injuries. If the dog barks or the cat tries to play too rough redirect the behavior. Do not yell at the dog but divert their attention to another activity. Yelling can lead to a negative feeling associated with the cat. If the dog is well behaved around the cat be sure to praise them for this behavior. Sound very happy when doing the praise. This will help the dog associate positive feelings with the cat.
• Cats need their space. There should be some kind of item, such as, a cat tree where the cat can go when they want to get away from the dog. The dog should not be able to reach the cat. If the dog has the cat backed into a corner this is where attacks can happen. If the cat is able to get away from the dog then it will be fine and will not attack.
• When introducing cats and dogs together it is important to have realistic expectations. If one of the pets is used to being the only one in the home it will take some time to adjust to this new addition. When first introduced, the pets will be curious about each other and this new scent they are selling. Allow them to be curious while keeping a close eye on the situation. It is going to take some time for the pets to get used to each other before they get along and may even become friends. Both of the animals need to feel safe in order for this to happen.
• When having a cat and dog in the same home it is important to be patient. The cat may feel afraid of the dog and want to hide. Allow the cat to stay in their safe place. Slowly introduce the dog into the room. It is best to take things slowly so the pets can get used to each other and feel safe around each other. This will help them get along and live in the same home with peace.

America’s badlands received their ominous name when early settlers found it

impossible to safely roll a wagon through the cracked lunar landscape in the Upper Midwest. Our most famous badlands are preserved in national parks in the Dakotas – and off limits to canine hikers.

To give your dog a chance to explore these unique lands of sculpted rock,

head south from the Dakotas to the lesser-known badlands of the Nebraska

panhandle. Here in the Gala National Grasslands you will find dog-friendly

Toadstool Geologic Park where the relentless tag-team of water and wind have

carved fanciful rock formations into the stark hills.

The “toadstools” form when underlying soft clay stone erodes faster than the

hard sandstone that caps it. You can hike with your dog on a marked, mile-long

interpretive loop that leads you on an educational adventure through these

badlands. Your dog is welcome on the hard rock trail but you can also explore off

the path for close-up looks in the gullies at fossil bone fragments that lace the

rocks and 30-million year-old footprints preserved in the stone.

There are some rocks to be scaled along the route but this ramble under

banded cliffs of clay and ash is suitable for any level of canine hiker. There is only

sporadic shade and seasonal streams in this ancient riverbed so bring plenty of

water for your dog, especially in the summer months. Take a break at the end of

the hike in the small fenced yard of the reproduced sod house beside the parking

lot.

For extended canine hikes, Toadstool Park connects to the world-renowned

Hudson-Meng Bison Boneyard via a three-mile trail. This archeological site seeks to

unravel the mystery of how over 600 bison died nearly 10,000 years ago in an area

about the size of a football stadium. Human predation is the leading suspect.

Toadstool Geologic Park is located 19 miles NW of Crawford, Nebraska on US

Forest Route 904 off State highway 2/71. The trail begins at the back of the six-

unit campground.

When I watch our dog, Eby, noses his way in the garden around my homestead, I sometimes try to imagine what he is smelling. He is like a shopaholic at a rummage sale, smelling anything and everything that comes its way. And almost every dog I met knows the best way to uncover and get its favourite thing is through its nose.

From the moment they are born, dogs have a wonderful sense of smell. Even though the new born puppies can’t see, they can still detect their mother’s smell and heat and locate her easily! Their sense of smell improves as it grows and develops to such a point that some say that it’s up to a million times betters than humans.

A dog’s sense of smell is so acute because dogs have at least 25 times more olfactory receptors than humans. Its nose can even distinguish between the cheese, meat and ketchup on a cheeseburger. That is why they are considered man’s best friend, some of them are trained, working side by side with humans to recover survivors under rubbles, drugs tracking, and even landmines detection work! There are many sniffer dogs that devote their lives to serious work like tracking down escaped criminals, or missing (or drowned) persons for the police force. Dogs can effectively identify bombs, firearms and drugs by sniffing for tiny odour traces at international borders and in airports. They are loyal crime fighting partners, performing tough tasks as only our best friends can!

Dogs can detect and distinguish smell in 2 ways, by an air scent left behind by something that has just passed by or a ground scent. Puppies and grown dogs use their sense of smell to communicate between themselves. With their nose, they can read the messages that other dog have left behind. Their way of shaking hands or presenting themselves is by smelling each other.

The length of a dog’s snout can have an effect on his ability to smell. Longer-nosed dogs have more scent-reception cells. Even short-nosed dogs can smell hundreds of times better than a human.

Nose nutrition for your dog

Remember that, as a dog ages, he loses some or all of his ability to smell. It can also be a sign of immune problems if a dog’s nose is normally black, but starts losing pigment; bring him to the vet.

Make sure your dog continues to eat and drink when he’s suffering from any sort of nasal problem; remember that most of a dog’s ability to “taste” food resides in her nose, and if she can’t smell the food, she may not want to eat it. Furthermore, even a mild fever will quickly dehydrate a sick animal, and if you can’t get her to drink at home, consider a trip to the vet for fluids. Older animals may need to be tempted to eat, and some seem to find spicy foods more palatable. A wholesome diet is recommended to improve its overall nose sense and overall health. The best “nutrition” we can give to a dog’s nose is a daily dose of natural odorants, generated from nature – the perfect way to build up the reserve of sensory cells and brain connections related to smelling.

Your dog’s sense of smell is a powerful and useful tool for the animal. Basically, its sniffing and whiffing ways are simply a part of its nature

You never know what’s going to befall your dog. If you have to take him to an expensive vet, then you’ll be glad you had the foresight to get insurance. Here are a few things you need to look at when trying to find the best dog insurance company.

Experience

First and foremost, you will want to see how long the company has been during business. As with most things, the more experienced the company is, the better. This isn’t always the case though, as bigger companies aren’t always the best choice.

License

Before you look at anything, you need to make sure that the company is licensed to do business in your state. You may want to think about the future too. If you ever plan to move and take your dog with you, the company will need to be licensed in that state as well.

Cost

Of course you’ll definitely want to take a look at the costs of getting insurance for your dog. Needless to say, cheaper plans aren’t always the way to go. Conversely, you may not necessarily need the most expensive plan on the market either. Consider your dog’s situation and your budget. Just like with other types of insurance, be prepared for premium hikes in the future too. They will especially increase as your dog gets older.

When looking at the fine details of your dog insurance policy, make sure that you pay attention to the payout limit. This is the maximum amount that the company will pay for any one claim. If you have a payout limit of $1,000 and a vet bill of $4,500, you’ll have to make up the difference.

Discounts

The best dog insurance company will offer discounts of some sort. One of the most common is for owners of multiple pets. If you cover all of them with one company, you could stand to save quite a bit of money.

Claims

When looking to get insurance for your dog, make sure that you take the claims process into account. You’ll want it to go as smoothly as possible. Some companies require you to pay the vet the entire bill, then wait for them to pay you the money back.

Others make you get the vet fill out forms as part of the claims process. Insurance companies sometimes restrict the vet that you can take your dog to. If you take him to one that’s out-of-network, you’ll have to pay a higher cost.

Wellness

You don’t only need to go to the vet when there’s something wrong. Your dog needs to see the vet at least once a year for a wellness exam anyway. Since this is highly recommended, then look for a dog insurance policy that will cover preventative care. It may not cover all areas such as dental cleanings, vaccinations, and heartworm medication.

Having insurance for your dog would certainly come in handy if something major unexpectedly popped up. If you do decide to get it, then keep these tips in mind so that you can find the best dog insurance company.

When most people think about dog muzzles, the first thing that often comes to mind is the image of a vicious, out of control dog. But that’s not the only reason dog owners train their dog to wear a muzzle. Keep reading below to discover some of the other quite common reasons for doing so.

Reasons For Using A Dog Muzzle

If there is a risk of your dog biting other people or pets, it is very important to keep him muzzled when around others. This protects animals and people from injury, and also protects you, the dog owner, from getting into trouble. If your dog attacks a person or pet, you can find yourself in serious legal trouble.

But being a vicious dog isn’t the only reason to use a dog muzzle. Your vet may insist on muzzling your dog to prevent injury to himself and others. This isn’t because he considers your dog vicious, it’s because veterinary visits are often quite stressful for dogs, and in some cases, the procedures can be painful. When a dog experiences pain, they often instinctively try to bite the source of the pain in an attempt to make it stop.

Another reason to consider training your dog to wear a muzzle is for grooming reasons. Dogs can be quite protective of their feet, and many won’t tolerate having their nails clipped. Using a muzzle can put the groomer’s mind and ease, and insures he or she will not be bitten.

When your dog is recovering from an injury or medical procedure, it’s a common practice to put a cone around his or her head. This is to prevent him from licking and biting at wounds, and to keep him from removing any stitches that may be present. However, if you’ve ever used one of these on your dog, you know how uncomfortable it makes him. Plus it makes him look silly to the other dogs.:) Instead, consider using a dog muzzle. It provides the same benefit while being more comfortable for your dog.

Are Muzzles Bad For Dogs?

In a word, no. As long as they are worn properly, your dog will be fine. Just make sure it isn’t too tight, and make sure he is able to drink water if he gets thirsty. Lastly, make sure you don’t leave it on for long periods of time, and use it only when necessary. Otherwise, you risk creating anxiety problems for your furry friend.

When used properly, a dog muzzle is an excellent tool. Training your dog to accept one is usually a simple process, and after a little trial and error, he will accept it as willingly as he does a leash.