Post-It Notes. The Microwave Oven. Pacemakers. X-ray Machines. What do all these products or technologies have in common? They were all invented by complete accident. Sometimes, the most meaningful and impactful products are just that, happy accidents.

That’s why when we heard about this weird, ultra-durable “dog toy”, we had to investigate.

Mark Smith is the owner of a small family business that makes parts for the agricultural industry. Smith’s company is dog-friendly and one day during a meeting, the office dogs got a bit bored.

We’ll let Mark tell you about what happened in his own words. Watch below!

What makes the AgriChew™ so irresistible and durable?

Three letters: TPU.

TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane. It’s an ultra-strong, non-toxic, FDA approved, pet-safe material used for many high performance and high stress products. In fact, its most often used by medical device companies. As far as we can tell though, no one has yet made a dog toy out of it, and that’s a shame.

How does it wear over time?

Obviously, no toy is indestructible. If it was, no dog would want to play with it. Not to mention, it would wreck their teeth!

The perfect dog toy is one that wears down slowly over time. 

Take a look below at some of our tests of the AgriChew. The first example below is from our one of our team member’s dog Ike. The AgriChew has become Ike’s favorite toy by far and after several months of play and chewing, you can see the results below. This little guy is a young Chihuahua mix who enjoys relaxing with a toy and methodically tearing into it. He prefers to focus on one spot and try to get his chompers as far into it as possible.

By far, our heaviest chewer to test the AgriChew was a 100 lb. German Shepherd. As you can see, the toy below was also very “well-loved.”

Instead of large pieces chunking off (dangerous) the AgriChew slowly wears down over time. The coarse surface then becomes even more attractive to dogs.

Just like any toy in iHeartDog’s Project Play™ program, every toy you buy will provide a donated toy for a shelter dog. To-date, Project Play™ has funded over 100,000 donated toys for animal shelters across the country.

You can learn more about the AgriChew here.

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Is your pooch looking to expand his social circle? Maybe find a furry friend who enjoys tennis balls and long walks on the beach? Or perhaps you are unable to have a dog of your own and are searching for some canine companionship?

If you love dogs and live in Australia, Dogshare.com may be the perfect social site for you. The goal is to meet local dog lovers like yourself and discover how you can help one another.

Here’s how it works: dog people simply join DogShare and create a free profile. Once approved, members are encouraged to begin interacting with fellow canine enthusiasts in their area. They discuss their routines, build trust and eventually make plans to meet-up.

“Dogshare exists solely to introduce dog-owners to other dog-lovers in their neighbourhood,” the website reads. “And in so doing provide the dogs of Australia (and their humans) with extra enrichment, affection, exercise, companionship (day or night) and perhaps even weekend and holiday stay-overs – all completely free of charge.”

While most members are dog parents, pup ownership is not a requirement. Some people opt to “borrow” a dog from time to time. No money changes hands, these folks simply want to experience all the physical and emotional benefits part-time pup ownership provides.

The dogs get extra exercise and affection while their humans are away, and pup-less dog owners get to bask in all the fun, exercise and unconditional love of having a pet. The Dogshare website had this to say about the new service:

“We found that there are so many people out there who genuinely love dogs and have experience caring for them, but are unable to commit to owning one for a variety of reasons, but with so much love to give, we really wanted to offer these people the opportunity to care for a dog, at least some of the time.”

If you live in a major Australian city like Sydney or Perth, visit Dogshare.com to learn more!

 

 

 

via Whisker Therapy

When Lizzie the dog first arrived at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa she was suffering with itchy skin, oozing sores, and painful infections in both ears. Her lovely tan and white coat was patchy with hair loss.

Thanks to the ARL team and a pup-loving couple named Conner and Alison, Lizzie’s life has been completely transformed!

Just a few short weeks after she was abandoned at the shelter, she served as “ring-bearer” during Conner’s proposal and became their new forever fur-kid!

According to the ARL Facebook page, the couple had been discussing adopting a new dog. Conner contacted the shelter to see if they could help him find the perfect rescue pup and plan the perfect proposal for Alison.

The staff recommended sweet Lizzie as a match for the fun-loving young couple and their pooch. Conner instantly knew she was perfect!

When the big day arrived, Conner brought Alison to the shelter to “look at dogs.” As soon as she spotted Lizzie, Alison felt a connection and asked to meet her. As she rubbed the pup’s newly healthy coat, Alison discovered the engagement ring on a paw print ribbon around Lizzie’s neck.

She immediately said yes to becoming Conner’s wife and Lizzie’s fur-mama!

A few days later, Alison shared the following photo with her new friends at the ARL, writing:

“Thank you all for helping make it the most perfect day! Lizzie is the sweetest pup and the perfect fit for our family!”

Congratulations Conner, Alison and Lizzie! We wish you all the love and happiness in the world!

 

via Whisker Therapy

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It is amazing how many people teach their puppies and dogs the exact opposite of what they think they are working toward!

We think in human terms.

We don’t take time to consider how dogs learn, and how terribly inconsistent we are as humans.

Honestly, if we saw these things through our dog’s eyes, I think we would be much better trainers and owners.

You May Actually Be Teaching Your Dog to NEVER Come When Called

So let’s talk about some of the things we do to our dogs when we call them to come!

This way, you will have a better understanding of why your dog may not be coming to you when he is called.

We Call Them, and Lock Them in Their Crate Before We Leave

What would you think about a word that happens right before your favorite person locks you up, and then leaves?

You see, dogs don’t know English, or German, or any human words of communication.

Dogs build associations with human words.

They often build emotions AND associations with certain words.

If “cookie” means I will always be giving you a tasty treat, but “come” means I have to go to work and you have to go in your crate… how would you feel about the word?

Even if sometimes the word is rewarded and you get praised when you go to your person, how do you know what the word means from one time to the next?

And, again, dogs are not people.

They don’t think like people.

So if they think “coming” means you will crate them and leave; they may very well think that total avoidance of you, and that word, may equal you staying home and them getting to continue to play outside!

If you are going to crate him, use a different command after you already have him… and his attention.

Or just go to him and lead him to his crate.

We Call Them For a Bath

Ever gone into your bathroom with a towel and some dog shampoo and called your dog to come visit you?

Chances are he will do this ONCE before he figures out that he doesn’t want to “come” to you; especially in that room.

Baths are kind of scary to dogs.

The sound of the water in the tub can be loud, many people use water that is too hot (remember dogs have a higher temperature than us, and fur!), and slipping on the floor of the tub can be frightening.

This is another time that you need to go to him, put him on a leash, then take him into the bathroom.

Adding a command only conditions him that something scary is about to happen.

We Call Them to Trim Their Nails

This is just like the bath.

There are a lot of things we do to our dogs that they have no desire to have done.

We trim their nails.

We clean their ears.

We medicate them or put drops in their eyes.

None of these are “good” things, or cause them to have happy feelings, so don’t use the most important command that your dog will ever hear, “COME”, when you do these things!

We Call Them When They Are in Trouble

This is another one of my favorites because it illustrates how different dogs are from people.

Unfortunately, we call each other, and our kids when they are in trouble, too, but we can reason.

When my mother was livid with me and shouted, “MINETTE LYN GET IN HERE”, I knew I had two choices: take my knocks early or pretend I didn’t hear her and make her angrier.

Ignoring her wasn’t going to make the problem go away (as children, I think we all wish that it would!).

Ignoring her made my punishment worse.

Also, how I acted and reacted could make my punishment worse or better.

If I got an attitude, it would be worse.

If I was sincerely sorry, it could be better.

But your dog doesn’t have these reasoning skills.

He hears your “mad voice” and tries to avoid you at all costs.

You yell “BUDDY COME” because he has eaten your Michael Kors purse, but in his mind, there is no way he is coming to you while you are angry.

He will do his best to avoid you because he doesn’t realize that by doing so he is making you angrier.

He simply thinks he can run around and avoid you until you are back to your normal self.

But his not listening makes you even more livid (it is like getting an attitude with your mom).

Eventually, once you have caught and punished him a few times he may learn to show some placating and submissive behaviors (the dogs that smile, or look “ashamed”), but this is just because they have been harshly punished in the past and are feeding off of your energy.

Please don’t call your dog when he is in trouble!

You are teaching him to avoid the command, and YOU, when you are angry.

We Call Them Away From Having a Good Time

Ever take your dog off leash at the dog park and then try to call him when it is time to leave?

Take him to the park, or even the backyard, and try to call him while he is playing?

It may work, once, but when he learns that “come” means you are taking him away from his favorite pastime, he is much less likely to comply!

“Come”, then, essentially becomes the opposite of what you want!

The “come” command should be the most fun thing your dog does… not something that equals leaving fun behind.

The other problem is that the dog owner usually isn’t out there playing with their dog and calling them to “come” to play with them.

I wrote an article many years ago about training my dog at the dog park, and I swear I have never had more negative comments on any article I have ever written, and I have written a lot of articles in the past eight years!

But, I wanted my dog to pay attention to me; I wanted her to learn to play with me at the dog park.

She didn’t get into trouble for paying attention to the other dogs or playing (although she has never been much of a player), she learned that the fun came from hanging out with me!

So I would frequently call her and throw her ball.

I would call her and let her play tug.

I would call her and feed her.

But 90% of the time or greater, “come” meant something good.

Only occasionally would I call her to leave and, if that was the case, a good game came first.

Most often, if I wanted to leave and end the session, I would wait until she was near me and I would simply hook her up on a leash.

It was also a lot easier once I provided her with the exercise she needed and then left when she was tired; that creates less conflict.

But so many people take their dogs to the dog park, let them off leash, and then just ignore them.

They will read a book or play on social media.

No wonder so many dogs are killing each other at dog parks. Lately, the owners are nowhere near to stop a problem before it becomes an aggressive event.

I can tell you I was always within a few yards of my dog and always watching her interact.

I don’t want my dog to be killed at a dog park.

And, if there is an aggressive dog, I want a dog that has a good recall, or “COME” so that I can gather her up and leave!

Having a great recall is essential and, at some point, your dog’s life may depend on it!

via Whisker Therapy

via Whisker Therapy

Marley has led quite a sheltered life for a sheep. Orphaned as a newborn, he was adopted by Ali Vaughan and her family when he was just a month old.

The shaggy Valais Blacknose Valley sheep developed a joint infection soon after and required daily care. As he recovered in the Vaughan’s kitchen, Marley learned that indoor life suited him quite nicely.

He also bonded with the family’s black lab, Jess, and began to pick up some distinctly canine behaviors!

Marley is now 6-months-old, and although he dislikes cold weather (plus wind, rain and grass), he is learning to adjust to outdoor life as a “proper” sheep with the help of his equally wooly pal, a brown Ryeland named Bear.

“I knew we needed to get Marley a sheep companion, we want him to know he’s a sheep and to be outdoors like a sheep – after all he’s not very well house-trained,” Ali Vaughan told the Daily Mail. “We do have a barn where he should be staying where it is nice and cozy.”

He is doing his best to embrace his sheepness, but Marley still takes every opportunity to dash back inside the house. Luckily, Jess and the Vaughans visit him outside regularly!

 

H/T to BBC News

Featured Image via Facebook/Love for Animals

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On February 21, a brave German Shepherd risked his life to protect his 16-year-old master, Javier, from armed burglars. As the boy hid in an upstairs closet, Rex engaged the intruders, distracting them from his location.

The 2-year-old dog sustained a beating and multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation. As the story spread, animal lovers across the world held their breath awaiting news of the hero dog’s prognosis.

On Friday, just three days after the attack, Rex was released from Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in Renton, Washington and returned home with his adoring family.

Watch as Javier leads his savior out of the clinic and prepares him for the ride home. Even after all he’s endured, Rex still has a big puppy smile on his face!

A GoFundMe page created to cover Rex’s extensive veterinary care has raised a whopping $60,000 thanks to the dog’s many fans!

Unfortunately, the family home was burglarized a second time while they were visiting Rex in the hospital. They are currently preparing to move to escape the painful memories of the ordeal.

 

Featured Image via Facebook/Rex the Hero Dog

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These two Golden Retrievers were from the same litter and had shared a flight as puppies from Russia to Seattle, WA in order to be adopted last May – and hadn’t seen each other since. But they noticed each other across the crowded Pike Place Market and played as if not a day had passed since their separation.

Pam Corwin caught their adorable reunion on video and posted it to Facebook. In her post, she said:

“O.M.G.!!!! I witnessed the coolest thing today! I was at my booth at Pike Place Market and two couples (who didn’t know each other) were walking towards each other with identical dogs. Suddenly, the dogs ran towards each other and went totally crazy. I went over to watch because it was so adorable, and as I stood there soaking up the love, the couples figured out that the dogs are siblings and came over on the same plane to be adopted from Russia a year ago! The dogs recognized each other! They even had identifying tattoos that confirmed it. This joyful reunion went on for over a half an hour, in fact they were still at it when I left the market.”

The two couples exchanged phone numbers so they can arrange play dates for the sisters in the future. At the time of writing, this video has already been viewed more than 3 million times. These siblings are obviously thrilled to see each other after a long separation.

Has your dog ever had the opportunity to reunite with a sibling? Share your cute stories with us in the comments below!

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Odds are, you’ve heard about the benefits of turmeric for both people and pets. And while turmeric would likely benefit dogs of any age, its benefits are particularly pronounced for senior pets.

Turmeric (or Indian saffron) is the spice that gives curry it’s yellow color. Veterinary approved supplements for dogs often contain Curcumin – the active ingredient in Turmeric – because it acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Researchers and nutritionists are singing its praises as a medicinally effective herb for the mind and body of both people and pets.

There is evidence that the Curcumin in Turmeric can provide the following 6 health benefits:

1. Fights Aging by Reducing & Preventing Chronic Inflammation

Short-term inflammation actually plays a role in keeping the body healthy by fighting off foreign pathogens. Long-term inflammation, on the other hand, is associated with almost every major disease including heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, dementia and various degenerative conditions. One study showed that the power of Curcumin in reducing inflammation may even match that of many anti-inflammatory drugs – without the side effects.

In particular, dogs suffering from joint inflammation or arthritis may see great benefits from turmeric.

 

2. May Reduce Chronic Pain

Pain is caused by inflammation, so once again Curcumin’s natural anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce pain and damage caused by arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and other injuries. Several studies on humans have suggested that turmeric may be equal in effectiveness to ibuprofen, but with less side effects (note: dogs should NEVER be given ibuprofen).

 

3. Promotes Cardiovascular Health

It’s believed that Curcumin acts as a blood thinner that reduces the risk of blood clots and helps rid the body of excess cholesterol. It also improves the function of the endothelium (the lining of the blood vessels) which aids in blood clotting and regulating blood pressure.

 

4. Aids in Digestion

In order for healthy digestion to take place the liver must produce bile to break down fat. If this system is impaired, liver, gallbladder and intestinal issues can arise. Curcumin has been proven to stimulate bile production. Underweight, extremely active and pregnant/nursing dogs all require more fat in their diets, so Turmeric can be especially beneficial for them.

 

5. Shows Promise with Cancer Patients

Several studies conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) have shown promising results in using Curcumin with cancer patients. The herb seems to affect cancer growth as well as development and spread at the molecular level. It has also been shown to inhibit the growth of blood vessels within tumors and contribute to the death of cancer cells.

 

6. Promotes Healthy Brain Activity in Aging Dogs

The rates of Neuro-degenerative diseases in India – where Turmeric is consumed regularly – are considered very low in comparison to western nations. This may be due, at least in part, to Curcumin, which crosses the blood-brain barrier to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage. A study by NCBI also showed it to be beneficial in clearing Amyloid plaques in the brain associated with dementia.

 

7. Promotes Healthy Joints in Senior Dogs

As many senior dog owners know, joint pain and mobility is one of the most common signs of aging. Many owners first notice their dog is slower to get up from sleeping or not greeting them at the door anymore when they come home. Because turmeric and curcumin fights pain and inflammation, it’s is one of the most popular go-to supplements for senior dogs.

How to Give Turmeric to Your Dog

While some owners simply add ground turmeric to their dog’s dish, there are a few possible problems with this method.

First, many dog do not like the taste of turmeric and it must be disguised.

Second, and more importantly, turmeric is poorly absorbed by the body, and two additional components have been found to help the absorption: the addition of a healthy fat and black pepper extract.

Since nearly all senior dogs are already given a joint care supplement such as glucosamine, for simplicity many owners find a formula that also contains turmeric, a healthy fat, and black pepper.

If supplementation with turmeric makes sense for your dog, you might consider trying the Project Paws™ Advanced Joint Care Supplement with Turmeric.  In addition to Turmeric, it contains 7 other active ingredients that support healthy joints and help improve mobility. And like any product sold from iHeartDogs.com, each purchase supports animal shelters.

As always, before starting any new medication or supplement you should consult your veterinarian. Turmeric is quite safe in healthy dogs, but may have restrictions for those with certain conditions like kidney stones or diabetes.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. 

via Whisker Therapy

You’ve heard that dementia can affect elderly people as they age, but you may not know that dogs can get it, too.

As with humans, the condition — which impairs memory, communication, focus, and more — can also develop in our canine companions as they get older.

The tricky thing is, the signs can be gradual and very subtle. With dogs, there’s the added challenge that they’re not able to tell us that something isn’t right.

The best thing for a pup parent to do, especially as their pooch enters their golden years, is to pay close attention. Never brush off a change in behavior, routine, physical appearance, or appetite, no matter how minor it seems. A call to the vet regarding your dog’s health is never a bad idea; at best they’ll say there’s nothing worry about, at worst, they’ll help you identify the problem and form a plan.

5 Subtle Signs of Dog Dementia

1. Disorientation

Disorientation is a common sign in human dementia patients, and PedMD explains that dogs experience this, too. If your pup can’t seem to “find” his way around the house or to the location of certain things — like his food bowls, which are always in the same spot — owners should definitely take notice. Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, explains in the article:

“This often happens when the dog is out in the backyard and he goes to the wrong door or the wrong side of the door to get back in. The part of the brain that is involved with orientation has been affected.”

They may also start to lose their concept of spatial awareness, finding themselves “stuck” in a corner or behind a piece of furniture without knowing how to get back out. Sometimes, dogs with dementia will stare blankly at a wall or into thin air.

Pups can also get “disoriented” in their sense of time. PetMD uses the example of a dog no longer realizing that the darkened sky or your bedtime routine are cues that it’s time to sleep.

2. Changes in Sleep-Wake Cycle

Adding to the example above, the brain of a dog with dementia may mix up her sleep-wake cycles. This means that a pup who used to sleep peacefully through the night is suddenly antsy, active, and unsettled.

“Many dogs reverse their normal schedules, so their daytime activities become their nighttime activities,” PetMD says.

Dr. Beaver suggests using a night light or white light to fabricate daylight, your dog’s new cue for sleeping, so pet parents can get some rest. Vet-prescribed medications can also help your pooch calm down in the evening.

3. Interactions

If your dog’s interactions to people or reactions to certain things drastically change, you should definitely take notice. Oftentimes, pups seem to “forget” the relationships they once had with their favorite people, and pooches who once loved children, other dogs, or mingling with strangers are suddenly turn fearful, irritable, or even aggressive. They also may become disinterested in certain things that used to excite them, like the promise of a walk, the doorbell ringing, or your entrance through the door.

Obviously, a sudden change in demeanor can be dangerous if the dog becomes unpredictable. It’s also important to note that these behaviors can be caused by many other conditions besides dementia. Your dog could feel sick or be in pain for another reason, so it’s imperative to consult with your vet to pinpoint the exact cause.

In the article by PetMD, Dr. Denise Petryk, a former emergency room vet who now works with Trupanion pet insurance, uses this example:

“I’ve had patients whose dogs don’t recognize that their favorite cookies are treats for them. The owner’s first instinct is to buy other cookies. They don’t realize something else could be going on.”

4. Accidents in the House

This is another tricky symptom because it could be caused by a number of things, but when a house trained pet suddenly starts having accidents, it should always be checked out.

First off, never scold a trained pet who potties in the house, because there’s a good chance that something is wrong.

This could be a sign of dementia because pups whose cognition is affected may lose the ability to control their bodily functions. Or, they may no longer realize when to “tell” their humans when they need to “go.” Dr. Petryk says in the article,

“After we run tests and rule out a bladder infection, kidney problems, or diabetes, then there’s usually been a cognitive change. If your dog is staring out at the sliding glass door and then poops in the house anyway and it’s not because of bowel trouble, then he’s lost the understanding that he should poop outside.”

5. Lower Energy

This is yet another sign that can have multiple causes. It’s normal for a dog’s activity levels to decrease with age, but a lack of energy, especially accompanied by a lack of interest, could indicate cognitive issues.

Once-curious dogs may no longer care to sniff the grass outside, and they may prefer a nap over the play sessions that used to make their tails wag. Or, maybe they seem to completely lose focus or get disoriented, say, in the middle of a game of fetch.

“They may drop something when they’re eating and they can’t find it,” says Dr. Petryk. “If they don’t have sight or hearing issues, this can be a true indication that they are experiencing cognitive dysfunction.”

Again, some of these could be signs of arthritis, pain, or a number of other conditions, but no matter the cause, they should be evaluated by a vet.

In addition to a change in normal activity, a dog with dementia may engage in repetitive activities. Dr. Petryk explains:

“They may exhibit repetitive motion; things like head bobbing, leg shaking, or pacing in circles. This kind of action is more related to cognitive dysfunction or a degeneration of the brain. It’s less likely to be mistaken for anything else.”

Even repetitive barking, for seemingly no reason, could indicate cognitive disfunction.

How Can You Help a Dog with Dementia?

Unfortunately, dementia can’t be “cured,” but its effects can be slowed and its symptoms managed.

“You can’t stop the process but it’s possible to slow it down so they don’t go from one problem to three problems,” Dr. Beaver told PetMD.

Believe it or not, changes in diet can help support your dog’s cognitive function. Of course, dietary changes should be approved by your vet, but foods and supplements with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can help keep cells healthy, according to PetMD.

Another thing that pet parents can do is introduce “brain games” for mental stimulation. Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog’s mind active while rewarding him with treats. In fact, if he’s up any kind of activity, take some time to engage with him. If your pup is still interested in playing with friends, keep socializing him around friendly people and his canine buddies. Dr. Petryk suggests:

“If your dog doesn’t have physical restrictions, grab his leash and take him to the dog park where he can socialize with other dogs. It’s possible to slow deterioration by keeping him physically and mentally active, just like it is for us.”

If your dog is diagnosed with dementia, there are certain medications that your vet can prescribe. Of course, regular check-ups are imperative in keeping track of the progress of the condition. The more you know, the better you can help him.

When we bring a dog home, it’s a commitment for life. While it can be hard to watch our furry family members age and their health decline, loving pet parents will do anything to give them the best life possible, for as long as possible. After all, it’s the least we can do after all they’ve done for us! With a little symptom management and a lot of love, you can help a dog with dementia feel comfortable and happy.

(h/t: PetMD)

via Whisker Therapy

Like most dogs, 12-year-old Jaxon has a favorite toy. His name is “Greenie” and he is a jolly dragon the color of fresh limes.

Last month, Jaxon’s concerned mom, Kelli Brown took to Twitter in search of a replacement “Greenie” when she discovered that the beloved toy had been discontinued by its manufacturer.

 

@PetSmart PLZ HELP! This Top Paw toy has been discontinued but it’s the only toy 12 y/o Jaxon will play with. Got any laying around? We’ll buy them all up if you’ll let us! Our internet search brought us no luck. Very sad boy here!! 😢 pic.twitter.com/TplOosErsn

— Kelli Brown (@kelnkass) January 14, 2018

Brown was hoping to find just one remaining “Greenie” lingering in a discount bin at a PetSmart location somewhere. She never expected her post to garner such a huge response!

Hundreds of Twitter users offered their support by resharing Brown’s plea and recommending possible replacement toys the picky senior might like.

Go Dog makes something similar it’s on Amazon pic.twitter.com/NYaZPF5KYy

— Lt.E. Ripley (@LtERipleyAyy) January 15, 2018

Unfortunately, Jaxon’s heart belongs to “Greenie” and only “Greenie.” According to Brown, no substitute will do.

“We’ve tried other green toys over the years, he won’t have anything to do with them,” she tweeted. “And – there was a red & yellow version of his fave toy (a dragon!) – same size, same fabric, just a different color and no dice. What a weirdo, lol.”

Heyyy! pic.twitter.com/kJtrT8LEX0

— Kelli Brown (@kelnkass) February 23, 2018

Then “The Dogfather” himself caught wind of Jaxon’s plight. Matt Nelson, a pup-loving writer for We Rate Dogs, shared Brown’s post with his 55,000 followers.

ok this shattered my heart does anybody know where one can find this toy https://t.co/CJgdPc3TA7

— The Dogfather (@matt___nelson) January 15, 2018

A PetSmart employee saw it and reshared it in a company Facebook group. Soon, employees across the country were checking their stock for one very special lime green dragon.

Earlier this week, Jaxon received the greatest care package he could ever hope for – a box containing not one, but eight “Greenies” along with a bag of treats and a handwritten card!

@matt___nelson @dog_rates @kkennynicole Remember posting Baby J’s plea for a retired PetSmart toy (Greenie) awhile back? Happy to say the power of the internet came through BIG TIME. He is so happy right now… thank you all!!! ❤️🐶 pic.twitter.com/fq6OHIuXwU

— Kelli Brown (@kelnkass) February 22, 2018

Brown reached out to Nelson to share her gratitude, attaching this heartwarming video.

@matt___nelson @dog_rates @kkennynicole ❤️😍❤️ pic.twitter.com/JNVkrQlubQ

— Kelli Brown (@kelnkass) February 23, 2018

It just goes to show, social media can be used for good! Just ask Jax and his lifetime supply of “Greenies”!

 

H/T to Metro UK

Featured Image via Twitter/Kelli Brown

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Those who rescue dogs have huge hearts, and anyone who’s active in the rescue world realizes that pups with a past may also be dealing with their fair share of trauma. This can lead to anxiety or depression.

With all that said, pups who live in loving families may also have been traumatized by something seemingly minor, like a loud noise that scared them once, or an altercation at the dog park. According to Paws Abilities:

“Too often, we get caught up in the stories we tell ourselves about our dogs’ pasts, and forget to pay attention to the animal in front of us. While trauma can have lasting consequences due to its huge impact on the way the brain develops and processes information, patient behavioral modification and an environment of safety can have equally powerful effects.”

The point is, any dog can get traumatized for any number of reasons. Sometimes, that trauma can lead to a dog becoming fearful or acting withdrawn or depressed.

Of course, there are other scenarios that may have caused your pup to become depressed. Maybe it’s a death in the family, or the arrival of a new baby or pet leaves leaves them feeling left out. Even habitual boredom can give your dog a serious case of the blues.

Here are some common signs of depression in dogs:

• Lower energy
• Becoming withdrawn
• Less interest in things they used to enjoy
• Change in eating habits
• Change in sleep habits

Often, some extra exercise, training, playtime, or cuddly one-on-one time with your pooch is enough to get them out of their rut. But what if it’s not?

Despite doing everything in their power to try to help their dog get over whatever’s getting them down, some pet parents are disheartened when they can’t seem to ease their pooch’s sadness or anxiety — no matter how much love and security they offer. Is this a sign that it’s time to ask your vet about antidepressants?

According to Vet Street, antidepressant medication has its place in treatment, but it may not be used for what you think. It’s more of a way to “take the edge off” of fearful or nervous behaviors, rather than a “happy pill” for a dog who’s down in the dumps.

The article explains a few scenarios that may warrant a prescription:

• Separation Anxiety: When dogs have separation anxiety that’s so severe they can hurt themselves, (like by clawing at the door until their paws become injured), a vet may suggest medication to calm their stress.
• Generalized and Acute Anxiety: Many behaviors can fall under these categories, and include extreme stress when meeting new friends or encountering new situations. Another example is phobias with thunderstorms or other noises, which can include household sounds like the clanking of silverware.
• Compulsive Disorders: Sometimes pets engage in impulsive behaviors, even to the point of self-harm. Obsessive licking, nibbling (often of paws), tail-chasing, and more may be calmed with the use of antidepressants.
• Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome: As dogs get older, they may develop anxiety as they become disoriented or confused while their brain ages.

When dealing with a dog who’s depressed or anxious, the first step is to determine what’s causing the stress, then to find a solution with the help of a veterinary professional. Sometimes that includes medication, but it’s not a quick fix; it’s to be used as a tool in addition to training and / or changes in environment and routine.

For more information on how to help a dog who’s dealing with trauma or depression, check out the articles below. As always, consult with your vet if you have any concerns or notice physical or behavioral changes in your dog.

• How To Help Your Dog Recover From Past Trauma
• How To Help An Emotionally Traumatized Dog Learn To Play
• Can Dogs Become Depressed?
• 5 Signs Your Dog Is Dealing With Depression

via Whisker Therapy

Carl is not a fan of the vet, and he’s making sure that his human parents know it.

As responsible owners, we know we sometimes have to do things our dogs don’t like. Brushing teeth, baths, taking pills – things that are for the best for our dogs, even if they don’t understand it. That doesn’t mean they have to take it lying down, though, and they often don’t!

After an injury to his leg, Carl’s dutiful parents took him to the vet’s office, and Carl knows exactly where they are! But whereas some dogs might cause a scene, or even try to drag their owners out of the building, Carl is being a pretty good boy! This whining is nothing compared to some other tantrums we’ve seen!

You tell, ’em, Carl: “I’m here, but I don’t have to like it.” To drive his point home, he tops it all off with the silent treatment. That’ll show ’em!

We hear you loud and clear, Carl. You good boy, you.

via Whisker Therapy

via Whisker Therapy

Every dog requires at least some grooming to maintain their health and happiness. Grooming shouldn’t be a negative experience for your dog, whether you take them to a groomer or do it yourself.

Do you know how to set your puppy up for a lifetime of grooming success? Are you aware of how your dog’s grooming should change as he ages? Do you know how to find a groomer who will be a great fit for your dog’s needs? Do you know the best ways to groom your dog at home? Here’s everything you need to know about grooming your dog from puppyhood to his senior years!

Why grooming is crucial for your dog’s health

Of course brushing your dog can reduce shedding and make your life easier by not having to clean up as much hair around your house, but grooming is very important for your dog’s overall health and well-being. Whether you bring your dog to a groomer or you take care of those needs yourself, the process of grooming a dog helps to inspect every part of your fur child to spot potential health problems before they have a chance to become worse. More than that, some health problems can actually be CAUSED by a lack of proper grooming. Some problems that can be prevented or spotted by regular grooming are:

-Eye problems – Regular grooming gives you the chance to notice any changes to your dog’s eyes. Do his eyes seem clear and bright? Great! What if they’re red, runny, white, cloudy, or have a thick discharge? That means it’s time for a trip to the vet. Lack of regular grooming, especially on dogs with furry faces, can lead to sores due to eye “goobers” sitting directly on your dog’s skin for an extended period of time. These can be extremely painful for your dog, and when the goobers are removed, the raw skin underneath is open to infection.

-Ear infections – Ears should be checked weekly to look for signs of infection. When you flip your dog’s ear back, you shouldn’t smell anything. Redness, debris, or a foul odor can be signs of an infection and should mean a trip to the vet. A bit of witch hazel on a cotton ball, or an ear cleaning wipe can be used to wipe debris out from the inside of your dog’s ears to help prevent infection. If your dog is prone to ear infections, cotton placed inside his ears before a bath or a swim can help prevent water from getting into the ear canal.

-Overgrown toenails – Some dogs that frequently run or walk on pavement may not need their nails trimmed, but most dogs will need help from you or a groomer to keep their nails short. Overgrown toenails can cause arthritis or even embed themselves in the pads of your dog’s feet. Ouch!

-Tooth and mouth problems – Brushing your dog’s teeth daily with a dog-friendly toothpaste is a crucial part of keeping them healthy. According to vets, 85% of dogs over the age of 4 have some form of gum disease, like gingivitis. Other common mouth problems include tooth loss, abscesses, and even infections that can lead to death. If your dog doesn’t let you brush his teeth, you can try dental sprays, dental chews, tooth wipes, dental treats, raw bones, and natural chews like bully sticks in order to keep your dog’s mouth healthy.

-Matted hair – Matted hair doesn’t just look bad, it can seriously harm your dog if you don’t brush him regularly. Matted hair can both cause and hide skin sores and infections. It can hide fleas, ticks, and lice. In severe cases, it can even amputate limbs! Depending on your dog’s fur type, he’ll need brushing as often as every day and may need a hair cut every 4-6 weeks in order to prevent serious matting. Ask a groomer how much brushing and what type of brush your pup’s coat type requires.

-Lumps and bumps – Wet hair is much easier to see and feel through than dry, fluffy hair. Even if your dog doesn’t get very dirty, regular baths can help spot lumps and bumps that can be indicators of serious health conditions, up to and including cancer. Be sure to use a gentle shampoo formulated for dogs in order to prevent drying out your dog’s skin.

Why and how to prepare your puppy for a lifetime of positive grooming experiences

A dog that resists grooming is far more likely to get injured during the grooming process than one that’s been introduced to all aspects of grooming from a young age. How can you set your puppy up for a lifetime of success before he even sets foot at the groomer for the first time?

-Hold his feet – It’s much easier to trim a dog’s nails if they don’t hate having their feet touched. The younger you start touching and holding your puppy’s paws – preferably while giving them tasty treats – the more likely it is your dog will tolerate nail trims without stress as they grow up.

-Introduce him to brushing and combing – Little puppies may not have much hair yet, but it’s important for them to get used to the brush and comb you’ll be using on them for the rest of their life. Start with a few minutes at a time of brushing followed by a treat. Ideally, your puppy should learn that brushing is relaxing and bonding time, and not something to be avoided at all costs.

-Don’t stop brushing if they try to bite – Puppies experience much of the world through their mouths. If you pull your hand away when they nibble on you, they learn they can make you stop doing the thing they don’t like. It’s okay to tell your dog no, but don’t swat him with the brush – he’ll learn to associate the brush with pain, and you don’t want that!

-Handle their face – Any dog with hair on their face will need to learn to hold still while that hair is being trimmed. The younger they can learn that having their face held isn’t scary, the less likely it is that they will be injured as they grow up. Sharp scissors and clippers are not something you want near a thrashing, terrified dog! Reward your dog for letting you hold his face in varying positions and holding onto his chin hair.

-Get them used to vibrations – The sound and feeling of clippers can be scary to a dog that has never experienced them before. Long before your puppy needs his first haircut, you should use the body of an electric toothbrush or razor and hold it against your puppy’s face and body to get them used to the vibrations, again rewarding with treats as you go.

-Bring them to a groomer as soon as you can – Most groomers require your puppy has at least his first round of shots, and some vets recommend your puppy has his rabies shot before going to a groomer. Even if you think you’ll be doing most of your dog’s grooming yourself, it’s a good idea to get them used to going to a groomer when they are as young as possible. It will be much harder for them to adjust to the process the older they get. Most groomers offer cheaper puppy packages for dogs 6 months and younger in order for them to acclimate to the whole process.

How grooming should change as your dog ages

Just as with humans, dogs lose cartilage as they age, leading most older dogs to develop arthritis. Asking your dog to stand for an extended period of time to achieve the perfect haircut may be cruel if your elderly dog is in pain due to arthritis, hip dyplasia, or any other condition related to aging. Ask your groomer for recommendations for your specific dog’s needs, but some suggestions include scheduling quicker appointments that require less time in an uncomfortable kennel, doing simpler haircuts that require less standing, going longer between appointments, and not striving for a perfect haircut. You should also listen to your dog and your groomer – if your dog’s behavior during the grooming process changes, he may be indicating pain, hearing or vision loss, or other health issues that should be addressed with your vet.

How to find the best groomer for your dog

Finding the best groomer for your dog involves more than just checking online reviews. Even the best groomer in your area might not be the best fit for your dog. Asking friends and family for recommendations and checking reviews is a good place to start, but that should just be the beginning of your search, not the end.

Once you have a few candidates in mind, you should ask for price estimates. Most grooming salons will give a price range based on your dog’s breed, but some may charge based on your dog’s size or the amount of time it takes to groom your dog. You probably want to avoid the cheapest pace in town – that’s a groomer who’s either brand new or doesn’t value their time. They will be forced to rush through as many dogs as possible in order to make a living – not the best environment for your dog to be groomed in! You don’t need the most expensive groomer in town, just avoid the cheapest.

Once you’ve narrowed the list a little bit, it’s time to find out how each groomer schedules their dogs. Some salons will use “cattle call” scheduling, where all the dogs for the day are dropped off at a certain time in the morning and may be there as long as the entire day depending on when the groomer finishes. If your dog does well in a kennel, this may be a great option if you need to get your dog groomed while you work all day. If your dog hates being in a kennel, this may not be a great fit.

Other groomers use “block” scheduling, where they will schedule several dogs to come in at the same time. These places usually quote a 3-4 hour turnaround time. If your dog tolerates the kennel but hates the dryer, this may be a good fit. Most groomers use this type of scheduling, so it may be easier to make an appointment at a shop like this. Dogs are not typically dried all the way through – they get partially dried, then sit in a kennel with a dryer on it until they finish drying. This can affect the quality of the haircut.

Other groomers schedule dogs individually. This is the best option if you have a dog who hates being in a kennel – your dog typically gets started as soon as you drop him off and you pick him up as soon as he’s done. This can be a great option for getting senior dogs in and out as quickly as possible. This method requires getting dogs completely dry with the hand dryer, so it’s not a good option for dogs who are terrified of the dryer.

Top hacks for grooming your dog at home

If you’d rather groom your dog at home, that’s great too! Here are some hacks to help you out along the way.

-Use your finger to brush your dog’s teeth – If your dog hates the toothbrush, put doggy toothpaste directly on your finger or use a finger cap toothbrush.

-Groom your dog after a long walk – They’ll be too tired to fight the process.

-Brush your dog while watching TV – Keep a brush handy and brush him for 15 minutes at a time while you’re both relaxing on the sofa.

-Use a flea comb to remove eye goobers – While your dog is wet, use a flea comb to gently comb eye goobers out.

-Elevate your dog for grooming – If you put your dog on a table, counter, or washing machine during grooming, they will understand that grooming time is a time to be serious instead of a typical play time.

(H/T: WebMD Pets)

via Whisker Therapy