Bark Busters

We all know what joy having a canine companion can bring, no matter where we call home. However, for those who live in multi-unit dwellings, a misbehaved dog whose barking and bad manners disturbs others can easily cause ill-will among the most rational of tenants.  

Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, offers tips for dog-owners who share living space in apartments, condos, townhomes and the like.

• Before moving into your new residence, thoroughly check the unit and complex surroundings for potential dog hazards to ensure your dog's safety.
• Socializing your dog is essential in a busy, high-traffic environment. As soon as you move in, introduce yourself and your dog to your immediate neighbors. This lets your dog become familiar with the people—and dogs—he may encounter every day. Get to know other canine-owning neighbors so you can care for each anothers dogs in the event of delays in getting home.
• Be respectful of others. Before getting on an elevator, ask if everyone is comfortable with your dog riding along. If there is already another dog inside, wait for the next one or take the stairs.  A small confined area can become a threatening environment for the dogs.
• Always position yourself between your dog and passersby in hallways and other public areas.
• Take extra care when walking on staircases. Small dogs may fall between the stairs or through the railings. In addition, you could trip on your dog as you both maneuver the steps. Train your dog to walk slowly by your side when on stairs, and to wait to give other residents the right of way.
• Consider taking an obedience class or having one-on-one training with your dog—you'll both learn a lot and be better neighbors. In addition, making your dog think expends as much energy as physical activity. Provide 10 15 minutes of training daily on basics such as sit, stay, come, and walking on leash. Doing this twice a day is even better.
• If the weather is bad, practice obedience with your dog in the building's hallways and lobbies (if safe), as well as at home.
• Keep your dog busy when indoors by providing high-quality, treat-rewarding toys such as a Kong or Buster Cube. Switch out his toys every few days so he has new and fun things to hold his interest.
• Don't let your dog become a nuisance barker. If he barks when you are at home, learn ways to manage his noisy behavior to help you and your neighbors enjoy a quieter living environment. If he barks when you are away from home, consult with a qualified dog behavioral therapist to learn how to stop the barking and keep the peace.
• Consider crate-training your dog. Because dogs are descended from den-dwelling animals, a crate or pet carrier makes a natural shelter. Provide soft bedding and keep the crate in an area of your home where he feels most comfortable. Crating your dog when you're not home ensures a safe environment for him, minimizes chances of his barking, and helps prevent him from causing damage. Avoid leaving your dog unattended or locked on an apartment balcony.
• Get training that will help you understand your dog. Knowing your dog's unique temperament and tendencies will help you to better control how he behaves. A well-behaved dog is less likely to upset people and other pets in public places, will be more welcome at gatherings, and will enjoy a better relationship with everyone he meets. Plus, his good manners will reflect positively on you, his responsible owner.

Altamonte Springs, DeBary, Lake Mary,  Longwood, Oviedo, Sanford, Winter Springs

When traveling to visit family and friends for the holidays, more and more pet owners are taking Fido and Bowser along too. Whether you travel by car, truck, plane or train, help ensure a safe and pleasant journey by taking these safety precautions.
 
General Travel Tips

•    No matter what your mode of travel, the single best safe practice you can employ to keep your dog safe during the journey is to keep him restrained.

•    Affix current identification to your dog. Even better, have him microchipped, which provides a permanent form of I.D. to help ensure he is returned to you if he becomes lost.

•    Carry a recent photograph of your dog to make it easier for others to help you look for him if he gets lost during the trip.

•    If your dog is prone to anxiety or motion sickness, consult with your veterinarian about using pet tranquilizers for your dog appropriate for the particular type of travel you will take.

•    Feed your pet his usual meal one to two hours before travel. (If your dog is prone to motion sickness, feed him two to four hours before travel.) Do not give him food or water during travel as it may spill, forcing him to lie in a mess during the trip. Dogs can go 8 to 12 hours without food or water.

Cars and Trucks

•    No matter how long or short the journey, your dog should be restrained. An unrestrained dog is dangerous to himself and others. He can become a flying projectile that can injure you, your passengers or himself.

•    Secure your dog in the back seat (dogs riding in the front seat can be seriously hurt if the airbags deploy) with a pet travel safety harness or car seat, or in a pet carrier fastened to a seatbelt. If you drive an SUV, install a pet barrier to keep the dog in the back area of the vehicle as well as securing him in his harness and attaching it to the hooks in the floor.

•    If you must transport your dog in the bed of a pickup, use a crate or carrier secured to the truck bed to prevent him from being thrown into traffic at a sudden stop.


•    Do not allow your dog to ride with his head out the window. Road debris and other flying objects can injure his eyes.

•    Before you set out on your j ourney and after arriving at your destination, give your dog plenty of exercise. This will help him be more relaxed and able to acclimate to his new surroundings.

•    When stopping for a break and before you open the car door, attach a leash to your dog's collar so he can't escape. Even the most obedient pet can become disoriented when traveling. Always use a leash to walk your dog.

•    On a long car ride, stop every four hours or so to allow your dog to relieve himself (be sure to clean up after him), stretch his legs, refresh himself with a small drink of water, and help him understand that he's going to another environment.

•    Watch for temperature extremes. Your car is like an oven under the blazing sun and a freezer in the bitter cold.

Airline or Train Travel

•    Whether he will go in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold, your dog will need to travel in an airline (or train) -approved carrier. Check the airline (or train line) website for requirements.

•    If your pet will travel as cargo, check for restrictions on any health/immunization and other requirements.

•    Use direct flights to avoid mix-ups during transfers or the possibility of delays in getting your pet off the plane. Ask the airline if you can watch your pet being loaded and unloaded into the cargo hold.


A happy, well-socialized dog that knows you will always be there to keep him safe and secure will enjoy traveling to new places with you.

Mike Shamp is a Master Dog Behavioral Therapist and Trainer with Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company. Bark Busters trainers, who have trained more than 500,000 dogs worldwide, are renowned authorities in correcting dog behavior with all-natural, dog-friendly methods. Bark Busters training is the only service of its kind that offers guaranteed lifetime support. For more information, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com.

© Copyright 2009 Bark Busters USA All Rights Reserved

Altamonte Springs, Casselberry, DeBary, Longwood, Oviedo, Sanford, Winter Springs

In planning for this season's holiday festivities, it is important to keep your pets in mind. While most of us welcome the sights, sounds and smells of the season, holidays can also be chaotic—especially for dogs. Holiday festivities can interrupt a dog's routine and present a potentially unsafe situation. But by following a few common-sense tips, the holidays can be cheery for everyone—including the family dog.

Holiday foods can be harmful
• Many holiday foods are harmful or even toxic to canines. These include fatty or spicy foods, bread dough, fresh herbs, alcoholic beverages, and sweets of all kinds—especially those with chocolate or xylitol, an artificial sweetener.
• Particularly dangerous are cooked poultry bones. Cooked bones easily splinter, and the bone shards can cause choking or get stuck in your dog's gums. Instead, give "dog bones" specifically designed for dogs to chew. Ask your veterinarian for suggestions.
• Discourage your dog from foraging in the garbage—secure lids on all trash cans.
• It's natural that you'd want to share holiday treats with your dog. While a little taste of turkey or sweet potatoes can make your dog happy, don't overdo it—too much of a good thing can make him sick.

Decorations are not playthings
• Keep your pet away from holiday plants, many of which are poisonous, such as holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and amaryllis (a type of lily). Also be sure all potpourri is our of your pet's reach.
• Snow globes can contain antifreeze, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Keep any antifreeze products away from your happy, tail-wagging dog. If there is an antifreeze spill, send your dog out of the room while you clean up the liquid. Dilute the spot with water and floor cleaner to ensure your dog does not lick the area later.
• Keep electrical wires and batteries out of your pet's reach. Chewing or biting anything electrical can cause him shock or burns.
• Don't leave lighted candles unattended.  A lit candle knocked over by a swinging tail can burn your pet or cause a fire.

Christmas trees can be hazardous
• Anchor the tree to the ceiling or wall to prevent it from tipping over.
• Hang non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree.
• Avoid putting tinsel on your tree. If ingested, tinsel can twist in your dog's intestines and be deadly.
• Don't let your dog drink the Christmas tree water. The water may contain preservative chemicals, which can trigger severe indigestion in dogs. Stagnant plain water can breed bacteria and cause nausea or diarrhea to the pet which imbibes.
• Regularly sweep up fallen pine needles, as they can puncture holes in a dog's intestines if ingested.

Help your dog feel safe and relaxed
• Most dogs get very excited when guests arrive. To help your dog be calmer, exercise him prior to the festivities. After 30 minutes of walking or playtime, your dog will more likely be relaxed or want to nap.
• As a general rule, don't allow the family dog to greet unfamiliar guests since unusual activities and commotion can cause him extra stress.
• Give your dog a break from the hubbub by putting him in his crate or in a quiet room with his doggie bed. Allow him to rejoin the festivities after guests have arrived.
• Pets stressed by unfamiliar events typically pant more, so keep your dog's water bowl filled with fresh water.

Pets like presents too!
• Help your dog stay busy and out of the holiday trimmings by giving him fun, safe gifts.
• The Buster Cube™ and Kong™ are virtually indestructible puzzle toys that reward your dog with treats and keep him well entertained.

Please don't give a pet as a surprise gift!
A cute puppy might seem like the perfect gift choice, but many of these holiday presents end up at animal shelters. Owning a dog takes a genuine commitment of time and responsibility, and adoptive owners must be ready to participate in training and other activities. If someone you know seriously wants a dog, consider giving a leash and collar, or a dog training certificate from Bark Busters along with a note saying a dog of the recipient's choice comes with it. This helps ensure the lucky person gets just the right pet to bring into the family.

Following these simple tips will help make the festivities safe and happy for your whole family, including your canine companions.

Keep your dog safe on the most dangerous holiday of the year for dogs with guidelines from Bark Busters.


Altamonte Springs, Casselberry, DeBary, Longwood, Oviedo, Sanford, Winter Springs, Forida

Throughout our network of 250 franchises nationwide, we hear about more dogs dying or straying during Halloween than any other holiday. Halloween is intended to scare and startle us—making it a spooky holiday for dogs, too. By being more sensitive to dogs' fear-driven ‘fight or flight' instincts, we can help keep our furry friends safe this Halloween.

Halloween brings a fun time for most of us, but for some of our much-loved four-legged family members, Halloween can be a nightmare.  Dog owners may not be able to control external surroundings, but they can care for their dog's safety and well being by observing the following tips:

1. Bring your dog indoors. Even if you have a fenced yard, bring your dog inside where he cannot be harmed or overwhelmed by little ghouls and goblins. If he is an outside-dog, bring him in a few times before the big night to get him comfortable with being indoors. Remember, it is a natural instinct for dogs to protect the family from strangers, and on Halloween there will be plenty of strangers. 

2. Keep your dog restrained. If your dog is timid or scared, or if he tends to love people a little too much, put him in a separate room away from the front door. This will limit his excitement, aggression or chance of running outside and getting lost or injured.

3. Reassure your dog. If your dog seems to feel unsettled by Halloween activities, just act as normally as possible. By over-reassuring your dog or giving him extra attention, you inadvertently can communicate to him that there must be something to worry about.

4. Have your dog get used to costumes. Your dog may regard his family members as strangers once they don their Halloween costumes. Before the kids put them on, allow your dog to scent the costumes. Keep masks off while your dog is around.

5. Check your dog's ID Tag. Be sure identification tags are secure on your dog's collar—just in case.

6. Keep candy away from your dog. Many candies—especially those containing chocolate or xylitol, an artificial sweetener—are toxic to dogs. Problems can range from a mild upset tummy to vomiting and diarrhea, or even death. For your dog's safety, be sure to keep all sweets and their wrappers well away from him.

7. Protect your dog from candles and pumpkins. Agitated or excited dogs (and their swinging tails) can easily knock over a lit candle or pumpkin. Keep such items out of your dog's reach, or consider using a battery-powered candle that does not burn.

8. Think twice about dressing your dog in a costume. While some dogs do enjoy being dressed up, many don't. Experiment first to see if your dog likes being in a costume. If he shows any resistance, don't do it. Tie a fun bandana around his neck and he'll be happier and safer.

Altamonte Springs, Casselberry, DeBary, Longwood, Oviedo, Sanford, Winter Springs, Florida—October, 2009

October is the American Humane Society's Adopt-a-Dog Month.

Guidelines to better manage the adoption of a shelter dog.  Shelter dogs come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and it is important to know how to help a dog make the transition from a shelter to a new home.

Dogs need order and leadership. They seek pack structure, which you must provide. Your dog needs to know that you are the boss and that you have a set of house rules. This makes the transition from the shelter to your home easier, faster and more rewarding.

Below are tips to help ensure a smooth transition for your new furry friend.
If You Have Not Already Done So…

1. Hold a family meeting to create rules about caring for the dog. Will he be allowed on the couch, the bed, and in all rooms of the house? Where will he sleep and eat? Who will walk him and clean up after him? As a family, you must all be consistent with your decisions or you will confuse the dog, usually resulting in the dog making his own rules and causing unnecessary tension.

2. Have the necessary items your dog will need from the start: ID tags, a collar and a 6 foot leash, food and water bowls, food, dog toys, a crate and bedding, and basic grooming tools.

3. Bring your new dog home when you can be there for a few days so you can get to know each other and establish rules.

4. Just before you bring your dog into the home, take him for a walk to tire him out a little. Walks are not only good exercise, but they also serve as a training tool and an opportunity to establish the lines of communication that better educate him.
 
Establish Ground Rules in the First Days

At first, limit your dog to one room or area. Allow him time to become familiar with the smells and sounds of his new home. Try to limit your time away from home those first days; your spending time with him will help him to become more comfortable in his new, unfamiliar home.

Keep your dog on leash for the first few weeks so you can immediately teach him what behaviors are and are not acceptable by showing and guiding him through the appropriate exercises. For safety's sake, NEVER leave a leash on your dog when he is unsupervised.

Your rescue dog should NOT be left alone in the house with your existing pets until you have carefully monitored and controlled their interactions for a period of time.

Expect housetraining accidents. Your dog is in a new territory and is establishing a new routine, so accidents probably will happen. Review housetraining information available from the shelter, your veterinarian or your local Bark Busters trainer. The key is to be consistent and maintain a routine.

Dogs instinctively like to den, and a crate makes the ideal place for your dog to sleep and get away from household hubbub. While a crate also makes housetraining and training in general easier, limit the amount of time the dog is crated. The crate should be roomy enough to allow your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. An alternative to a crate is to confine him in a dog-proofed part of your home, such as a laundry or mud room. You can use a baby gate or dog gate to block off the area from the rest of the house.

Most rescue dogs have been given basic vaccinations and many have already been spayed or neutered. It is important that your dog is examined by a veterinarian within a week after adoption for a health check and any needed vaccinations. While there, arrange for the spay/neuter surgery if needed.

For the first few days, limit guest visits to allow your dog to get comfortable with his new family. When you do have guests, ask their help in training your dog by instructing them not to pay attention to him until he has calmed down. One way to communicate this request is to post a sign on your front door informing visitors that you have a new dog in training.

A Trained Dog Makes for a Happy Human-Canine Bond

Get guidance for training your dog. A well-trained dog is a happier dog and a joy to have around. Your animal shelter may have performed a behavioral evaluation on your dog to help the adopter understand what, if any, potential behavioral issues the dog may have. Knowing this information ahead of time may be helpful when you begin training with your new dog.

Dogs need consistent pack structure. If they don't have a consistent set of rules to follow, then they try to become the leader, which can create numerous behavioral problems. Thus, you—and all humans in your home—need to be consistent. Practice obedience training, set rules and apply them calmly and consistently, and praise your dog's good behavior. He will be much more comfortable in a pack with structure and will bond more quickly to you.

It is amazing how quickly dogs learn what is acceptable and what is not. Dogs have a language of their own, and once we understand it, we can communicate better what we expect of them.

Hats off to you for bringing home a rescue dog! Your patience and training will help to create a bond that will reward you both for years to come. With the right balance of discipline, understanding and affection, your rescue dog will become a loyal, grateful and loving companion.

About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, over 500,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With approximately 250 franchised offices in 40 states and more than 400 offices in 10 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers guaranteed lifetime support. SPCA International selected Bark Busters dog behavioral training services as the "Best of the Best" in its category. No other training company or dog trainer has received such a distinction. To fetch a trainer in your area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.

Prepare Your Dog for the Back to School Schedule Change

When kids go back to school, the stress can be huge on the family, including the dog. This abrupt change in routine can seriously affect our furry friends, who are creatures of habit. But with a little understanding and preparation before the first day of class, families can avoid many of the back-to-school behavior problems their dogs might display.

Separation Anxiety
With everyone gone to work or school during the day, dogs left alone can become stressed, often resulting in destructive behaviors and endless barking. These tips can help reduce the potential anxiety of separation.

•    Pay less attention to him: While your dog may be the center of attention when the kids are home all day, you need to change this scenario before they return to school so that he can adjust more quickly to the quiet time. About a week before school starts, pay increasingly less attention to your dog each day.

•    Start early: A few weeks before your children return to school, get your dog used to being alone. Begin by separating him from the kids and the rest of the family. For example, if you frequently take your dog with you to run errands, leave him at home.

•    Practice leaving the house: Go through the motions of leaving the house, go out the door, but then come right back in again. The dog will cease associating the routine of your leaving the house with your departure. This will help him to be more relaxed when you actually leave.

•    When you leave: As the last person leaves the house for the day, don't confuse your dog by saying in a sweet voice, "It's okay, Buster—we'll be home soon. Be a good boy." If he is feeling concerned that you're leaving, your happy, high-pitched voice can make him think it's okay to feel anxious. Dogs are pack animals and so they expect their leaders to be strong when they leave the pack. Therefore, ignore your dog for about 10 minutes before you leave.

Boredom
Dogs sleep a lot during the day, but when they wake up, they want something to do. It doesn't take much to entertain a dog, even when you're not at home.

•    Toys: Dogs love toys, but they can quickly get bored with or destroy them. Buy high-quality, virtually indestructible puzzle toys that your dog will always enjoy, such as those that hold treats like the Buster Cube™ and KONG™. Every few days, rotate what toys are available to him. This gives your dog something new and fun to hold his interest.

•    Scatter food: Dogs are natural foragers who enjoy looking for food on the ground—and will literally spend hours doing so. Scatter a variety of foods—such as bits of raw vegetables, dog kibble, and other foods that won't attract wasps—around the yard when you leave. Try hiding a few treats so your dog spends extra time looking for them. And always provide lots of fresh, clean water to keep your dog well hydrated.

Shelter
Dogs need to have their own "home," a place where they feel secure and comfortable. If your dog doesn't already have a place of his own, create one for him.

•    Crate: Most dogs love the safety of a crate. Because they are descended from animals that live in dens, a crate is a natural shelter for a dog because it has the same characteristics of a den. If your dog hasn't been crate trained, don't start training him the day the kids leave for school. That's too late and can actually add to his stress. When your dog has become accustomed to his new crate, do not leave him there for extended periods of time. If you plan to be away longer than 10 hours for a dog and 6 hours for a puppy, ask a friend to come by to let your dog out to toilet during that time.

•    Laundry room: If your dog will be inside all day and you are concerned about him toileting in the house, enclose him in a small room (which inhibits the tendency to toilet) and has an easy-clean floor of vinyl or tile (in case he has an accident). Place a soft bed and toys in the room for him too.

•    Doghouse: If your dog will be kept outside while you are gone, be sure he has shelter in which to get out of the weather. Dogs are more relaxed when they are covered and in familiar surroundings. Place the doghouse next to the house so that he feels like it is an extension of the larger "den," and provide a blanket or other comfy bedding.

Unusual Behavior
When dogs are stressed, they can begin to exhibit unusual behaviors, such as jumping up or even biting. It is not uncommon for children to come home from school and be greeted by the dog in an unnecessarily rough manner, even knocking a child to the floor. After being left alone all day, the dog has pent-up energy—and when he sees the kids, his excitement might cause him to overreact.

•    Train the kids: Parents need to train their children to avoid going right to the dog's area as soon as they get home. Kids should ignore the pet for five minutes or so to allow him to settle down. With young children, it is always best to have a parent present to reduce the chance of a problem. Once your dog learns the routine, he will relax.

•    Train your dog: It is amazing how quickly dogs learn what is acceptable and what is not. Dogs have a language of their own and once we understand it, we can easily control them by "speaking their language." Bark Busters specializes in using dogs' natural, instinctive communication methods as the way to train them. It's simple, and it works.

For more information on the World's Largest Dog Training Company, go to www.BarkBusters.com

Independence Day celebrations are great fun for people, but the loud noises and flashes from fireworks can be traumatic for dogs. The explosions, excited voices, and visual stimulation can create confusion and fear. To avoid this, we humans must intervene.

Animal shelters report that the July 4th holiday brings record numbers of runaway dogs to their doors. Many of these dogs have been frightened by fireworks. By being aware and thinking ahead, we can keep our dogs safe and comfortable during the revelry.

Here are some tips for dogs owners to prepare for Independence Day:

* If you are going to a fireworks display, leave your dog at home where he will be the most safe and comfortable.

* If you go to a holiday event, never leave your dog in the car. A partially opened window does not supply sufficient fresh air, and it creates an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

* Always keep proper identification securely fastened to your dog's collar in case he gets out. Talk to your veterinarian about implanting a universal microchip in your pet and make sure that your veterinary clinic and animal shelter have your correct information in their database.

* Don't leave your dog outside. If you cannot bring him inside, cover his dog house with a blanket to protect him from the bursts of bright lights and loud bangs. A dog's sense of hearing is acute - about four times more sensitive than a human.

* Create a den like area in your home where your dog feels safe. A properly introduced crate or kennel can be a calming refuge.

* Some dogs become destructive when frightened. If you don't use a crate, remove any items in the room which your dog could destroy or which could harm him if you chews them.

* Keep your dog away from the front and back doors. Your dog may be under significant stress, which could result in unnecessary injury to others or cause him to dart out the door.

* Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and flashes.

* Turn on a TV or radio at normal volume to distract your dog from the loud noises and help him relax.

* If possible stay with you pet during the majority of the fireworks. A dog often reacts more intensely to loud sounds and flashes when you are not with him.

* Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog while you are away from home.

July 4th is a time for fun and celebration. By taking these precautions, you and your pets can have a safe and happy holiday experience.

On Christmas Day, the film version of the popular book “Marley & Me” will be released nationwide. The film promises to faithfully capture the sweet spirit and message of the book, its subject—Marley, a wildly out-of-control-but-lovable yellow retriever. The film will undoubtedly raise questions (and some hackles) about what the dog’s owners could have done to better understand their pet and to correct his many behavioral problems.

Labs are intelligent dogs and need to be kept busy. They are eager to please and catch on quickly to training that is communicated clearly and consistently.

That training needs to start with ground rules established and maintained from the moment the dog (or puppy) enters your home. When a dog—any dog—is guided by your strong leadership and setting of firm boundaries, both man and dog will enjoy an infinitely more rewarding relationship.

Dogs do only whatever they can get away with. It is up to the owner to educate the dog about the rules of the pack, which requires a commitment to consistent leadership from the owner. For example, remember that your fluffy 10-pound new puppy who loves to jump up on you will one day be an 85-pound adult dog whose jumping is no longer cute and, indeed, can cause harm to you or others. Don’t allow such behaviors to begin, and correct any unwanted behaviors right away.

Labs are a popular breed because they love to be with people, including children. They are typically playful and good-natured. Because Lab puppies are very bouncy and boisterous, they may not be ideal for households with very small children, the elderly or infirm. Labs are best for families with active lifestyles who can allow the dog to have regular outlets for his seemingly boundless energy.

Labs, like many breeds, are prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to behavior issues. A bored, lonely Lab with nothing interesting to do will quickly find ways to vent his pent-up energy by barking, chewing and destroying anything he encounters in your house or yard.

Labs, like many breeds, are prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to behavior issues. A bored, lonely Lab with nothing interesting to do will quickly find ways to vent his pent-up energy by barking, chewing and destroying anything he encounters in your house or yard.

Had the Grogan family who owned Marley sought training from a qualified dog behavioral therapist to help them understand and act on these human-canine fundamentals, their lives together would have been less eventful and far more peaceful.

One example of how training could have helped both family and pet is related to how Marley reacted to thunderstorms, a common fear among canines. Many dogs “learn” to cower at thunder because their owners console them when they hear a loud noise. While it is understandable that you would want to coddle your frightened pet, this does not help the dog if you are not with him when a thunderstorm (or fireworks or a noisy trash collector) comes along. If your dog is frightened by loud noises, don’t make it an “event.” Simply guide your furry friend to a place where it is safe and quiet, ideally his crate. You could also cover the crate with a blanket to soften the impact of the loud noises. The dog will quickly learn to seek shelter there whenever he feels scared. If your dog exhibits extreme fear from thunderstorms, talk to your vet about more ways to help the dog feel calmer.

The following are some tips to help you manage your active Labrador retriever or any high-energy dog:

·         Provide toys that can handle heavy chewing. Labs are generally food motivated, so use treat-giving puzzle toys to keep him mentally stimulated.

·         Get into the habit of providing daily training sessions of 15 minutes or so.  Remember, dogs tire far more quickly from mental stimulation than from physical activities.

·         Crate training is strongly recommended for Labs. Not only does a crate help with housebreaking, it also helps to create boundaries for your pet, keeping both your dog and your house safe.

·         Anticipate your dog’s possible naughty behavior. Put baby locks on cupboard doors, put away trash cans, separate your dog from a small child with food. (The dog may snatch the food not out of aggression but simply because the temptation is just too great.)

·         Use Bitter Apple spray, or other taste deterrents, on objects you don’t want your pooch to chew.

Because retrievers are so energetic, you will gain better control of your Lab if you know how to safely “de-escalate” him when he becomes overly excited. Your local Bark Busters trainer is skilled in detecting when a dog is getting out of control and can teach you how to anticipate and counteract such potential problems

In planning for this season’s holiday festivities, it is important to keep your pets in mind. While most of us welcome the sights, sounds and smells of the season, holidays can also be chaotic—especially for dogs. festivities can disrupt a dog’s routine and present potentially dangerous circumstances. But by following a few common-sense tips, the holidays can be cheery for everyone—including the family dog.

1.     Avoid Christmas tree disasters. Christmas trees are a wonderful tradition, but they can lead to problems if you have a curious canine.

a.        Prevent the tree from tipping. Anchor it to the ceiling or wall.

b.        Hang non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree.

c.       Tinsel can be deadly when eaten. It can twist in your dog’s intestines and cause serious problems, so do not put it on your tree.

d.      Don’t let your dog drink the Christmas tree water. It often contains chemicals to help the tree last longer; these chemical can cause severe indigestion in dogs.

e.       Pine needles can cause health problems. If ingested, they can puncture holes in your dog’s intestines. Regularly sweep up fallen pine needles to avoid a trip to the emergency animal clinic.

2.    Mistletoe, poinsettias and amaryllis can be toxic. Be aware of these poisonous holiday plants and keep your pets away from them.

3.       Keep snow-globe snow in the globe. Many snow globes contain antifreeze, which is extremely toxic to dogs—so it’s best to keep snow globes and all antifreeze out of the reach of a happy, tail-wagging dog. If there is an antifreeze spill of any kind, send your dog out of the room while you clean up the liquid. Dilute the spot with water and floor cleaner to make sure your dog does not lick these harmful chemicals later.

4.       sweets are not dog treats. Candy, cookies, cakes, peppermints—and especially chocolate—can trigger life-threatening illnesses in dogs. Keep all sweets away from your dog and in a place where they cannot be reached.

5.    Make no bones about it. Cooked turkey and chicken bones are not for dogs as they can easily break, causing choking or bone shards to get stuck in your dog’s gums. Stick with “dog bones” specifically designed for dogs to chew. Ask your local veterinarian for suggestions.

6.    A relaxed dog is a good dog. Most dogs are excitable when guests arrive. Exercise your dog prior to the arrival of guests. After 30 minutes of walking or playing, most dogs will be more relaxed or ready to take a nap. As a general rule, it’s best not to allow the family dog to greet unfamiliar guest because commotion and unusual circumstances can cause stress for dogs. Give your dog a break in a quiet room with a familiar doggie bed or blanket or in his “den.” Allow your canine companion to join the festivities after the initial commotion of arrival has subsided.

7.       Keep the liquids flowing! When pets are stressed by unfamiliar circumstances, they typically pant more, so keep fresh water readily available for them to drink.

8.       Beware of cold and snowy weather. While it might be convenient to put your dogs outside when guests arrive for holiday festivities, dropping temperatures and snow can be dangerous to pets. In addition, never let your pet roam freely, as icy roads can make it hard for cars to stop if your dog wanders into the street.

9.       Do not give pets as surprise gifts! A cute and cuddly puppy might seem like the perfect gift choice, but many of these holiday presents end up at animal shelters. A dog takes a real commitment of time, and adoptive owners must be ready to participate in training and managing the responsibility of their new family member. If you know someone who’s serious about wanting a dog, consider giving a leash, collar or dog training certificate from Bark Busters, along with a note saying a dog of the recipient’s choice comes with it. This will help ensure the lucky person receives the dog he or she wants to have as part of the family.

10.   Add your pet to your gift list. Help your dogs stay occupied and out of the holiday decorations by giving them their own gifts. The Buster Cube™ or a Kong™, for instance, both are nearly indestructible toys that will distract your dog for long periods of time.

‘Tis the season for all things merry—and that includes your furry friends, Following these simple tips will help make the festivities safe and happy for you and your canine companions.

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

By Janine Allen
http://www.RescueMeDog.org