Whisker Therapy

It doesn’t matter whether they’re big, small, fluffy, young, or old—Gideon Kidd loves dogs. The nine-year-old loves their different personalities and the way they roll over on their backs for belly rubs. He even loves it when they lick his face.

Gideon has one dog at home named Walter (along with three cats and two gerbils), but his love for furry friends extends to the entire canine kingdom. All he wants to do is pet dogs, and while he’s at it, he’s spreading an important message. Regardless of the kind of day you’re having, petting a dog (or seeing a picture of a kid petting a dog) will always make you smile.

As part of Gideon’s mission to pet as many dogs as possible, he started his own website. It’s called “I’ve Pet That Dog,” and every day, he posts a picture of a new dog he’s met. He includes a short description of his new friend, and so far, he’s featured over 300 dogs. His website is a big hit, and his mom recently got the idea that he’d reach even more people if he also had a Twitter. She helped Gideon create his account, and in only a few weeks, his audience has grown tremendously. He started with a few hundred fellow dog-loving followers, but after local interviews and media features, people from all over started hearing about the kid who loves to take pictures with dogs. He’s at 52,000 followers so far, and that number grows every day.

Gideon’s idea is simple; there’s no gimmick or special ploy. He’s not fundraising or trying to become famous, all he wants to do is show people how great dogs really are. Before he pets a dog, he always stops and asks the dog’s handler for permission. If they say yes, he extends his hand toward the dog to let them smell him first. If the dog seems comfortable, then Gideon goes in for the pets. He likes talking to people about their dogs’ personalities, and he learns a lot about different breeds.

The fourth-grader pets big dogs and little dogs, and he’s always on the lookout for new dogs to meet. He told Today that he has already met all the dogs in his neighborhood, and now he and his mom drive around other places for the sole purpose of finding dogs to pet. When they see someone out walking their dog, they always pull over. Almost everyone they’ve met so far has been happy to help Gideon reach his goal of petting as many dogs as possible—and the dogs seem to like it too.

Gideon says he wants to pet one million dogs, and he’s willing to go the distance to make it happen. Gideon’s message is something everyone can relate to—when life gets rough, sometimes all you need to do is stop and pet a dog. Visit his website and follow him on Twitter for a daily dose of happiness.

h/t:  Today

Featured image via Twitter/I’ve Pet That Dog

First off: if your dog seems hurt or ill, he probably is. Canine instinct is to avoid showing signs of weakness, so take it seriously if something seems off.

With that said, there are some crafty canines who seem to put on a cough or limp in order to score extra love and attention from their humans.

The idea of dogs “faking” illnesses or injuries to gain attention is not only supported by countless pawrents, many veterinarians also back the concept. Dr. Richard Pitcairn author of Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, says it usually begins with a genuine symptom of pain or sickness. The response of the owner is what encourages the dog to continue the behavior after the issue has resolved:

“Say your dog is feeling lonely because you went back to work and just don’t have as much time for him as you used to. Before long, he develops a minor symptom – a cough – that worries you. Every time he coughs you rush over, pet him, and murmur comforting words… Pretty soon the dog gets the idea that every time he coughs he gets what he wants – your loving attention. What incentive is there for him to get well and stop coughing?”

Much like learning to sit or shake in exchange for a treat, the dog figures out that a minor symptom brings you running to his side, ready to shower him with affection. He then continues to sniffle after his cold has resolved or favor his paw after it has healed. Pretty clever, huh?

So, how can you tell if your pup has a real problem or just a flair for the dramatic? Luckily, dogs cannot mimic the majority of symptoms such as fevers, diarrhea or inflamed skin. Most faker-Fidos will limp, cough, sneeze, sniffle or itch – symptoms they can control.

If your dog is showing any signs of illness or injury, give him the benefit of the doubt and see your vet. If he or she cannot find a clear medical explanation for the symptom(s), it does not necessarily mean your pooch is faking.

Dogs suffer pulled muscles, minor ailments and general aches and pains just like we do. Since they cannot describe how they are feeling, diagnosing an exact cause can be quite difficult.

Consider how you feel when you are recouperating from a twisted ankle or a bout of the flu. Just as you experience ups and downs along the road to recovery, so does your dog.

If there has been a recent injury or illness, your pup may suffer minor relapses before the issue is fully resolved. However, if your vet cannot find any sign of the previous ailment, you may have a faker on your hands!

See if you can entrap your cunning canine into revealing his ruse. Since most fakers do so to gain your sympathies, try briefly ignoring him to see if his symptoms magically reappear.

If it turns out your dog is putting on an act, consider what his motives might be. Have there been any major life changes lately? Longer hours at the office? A new relationship pulling away your attention?

Resolving your dog’s phantom illness or injury may be as simple as providing 20 minutes of your undivided attention each day. Whether it be a walk around the block, a game of fetch, or a simple cuddle session, focusing on your dog will show him that he is still a priority in your life.

H/T to WildInsights.com

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes.

Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world.

Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, goes so far as to say dogs “see with their noses.”

But in order for the incredible sensory apparatus within the canine nose to operate at full capacity, the external skin must be moist and spongy.

Brachycephalic dog breeds like Boston Terriers are especially prone to dry, cracked noses due to the anatomy of their heads. Their noses sit high on their stubby muzzles, making it difficult to reach them with their tongues.

Luckily, protecting your Boston Terrier from the discomfort and decreased sensory input of a dry nose can be achieved in two simple steps:

1. Pinpoint the Cause(s)

• Weather: You may notice that your dog’s nose is affected by extreme heat or cold, or that sun exposure contributes to its dryness. Indoor heating in the winter can also be a culprit.
• Allergies: Boston Terriers are often prone to seasonal, contact and food allergies. You may want to avoid plastic bowls and toys and consult with your vet about your dog’s particular sensitivities.
• Dehydration: Make sure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, especially in hot, humid weather. If he or she is drinking or urinating excessively, see your vet to rule out diabetes or problems with the kidneys which can cause dehydration.
• Medical Conditions: There are several medical conditions that can contribute to a dog’s dry nose including neurological issues that cause excessive licking and autoimmune disorders. See your vet regularly and report any concerning symptoms. He or she may recommend lab work to rule out a serious problem.

2. Apply A Soothing Nose Balm

Barring any underlying medical condition, you can begin to heal your dog’s crusty nose with a soothing product like Nature’s Butter Nose Balm. Hand-mixed on a family farm in Minnesota, this cruelty-free balm is composed of a mixture of Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Avocado Oil, Coca Seed Butter and Castor Oil.

The different oils and butters absorb into the skin at varying rates, ensuring maximum, long-lasting effects. First, the lighter oils soak in for fast results. Next, the medium weight oils add a deeper layer of moisture. And finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s nose, bringing extra relief.

Wonderful product, it really does work. In 4 days it smoothed my little guys nose. So happy that there’s a product that does what it said it would. This is staying on my great product list. Thank you

Very excellent product & Dooley gives it a 4 paws up solute!! Thanks for your wonderful product!!

Love this and my dogs nose is softer and the cracks all healed!

Learn more and get yours here!

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.
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You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes.

Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world.

Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, goes so far as to say dogs “see with their noses.”

But in order for the incredible sensory apparatus within the canine nose to operate at full capacity, the external skin must be moist and spongy.

Brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldogs are especially prone to dry, cracked noses due to the anatomy of their heads. Their noses sit high on their stubby muzzles, making it difficult to reach them with their tongues.

Luckily, protecting your Frenchie from the discomfort and decreased sensory input of a dry nose can be achieved in two simple steps:

1. Pinpoint the Cause(s)

• Weather: You may notice that your dog’s nose is affected by extreme heat or cold, or that sun exposure contributes to its dryness. Indoor heating in the winter can also be a culprit.
• Allergies: French Bulldogs are often prone to seasonal, contact and food allergies. You may want to avoid plastic bowls and toys and consult with your vet about your dog’s particular sensitivities.
• Dehydration: Make sure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, especially in hot, humid weather. If he or she is drinking or urinating excessively, see your vet to rule out diabetes or problems with the kidneys which can cause dehydration.
• Medical Conditions: There are several medical conditions that can contribute to a dog’s dry nose including neurological issues that cause excessive licking and autoimmune disorders. See your vet regularly and report any concerning symptoms. He or she may recommend lab work to rule out a serious problem.

2. Apply A Soothing Nose Balm

Barring any underlying medical condition, you can begin to heal your dog’s crusty nose with a soothing product like Nature’s Butter Nose Balm. Hand-mixed on a family farm in Minnesota, this cruelty-free balm is composed of a mixture of Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Avocado Oil, Coca Seed Butter and Castor Oil.

The different oils and butters absorb into the skin at varying rates, ensuring maximum, long-lasting effects. First, the lighter oils soak in for fast results. Next, the medium weight oils add a deeper layer of moisture. And finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s nose, bringing extra relief.

Wonderful product, it really does work. In 4 days it smoothed my little guys nose. So happy that there’s a product that does what it said it would. This is staying on my great product list. Thank you

Very excellent product & Dooley gives it a 4 paws up solute!! Thanks for your wonderful product!!

Love this and my dogs nose is softer and the cracks all healed!

Learn more and get yours here!

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.

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes.

Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world.

Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, goes so far as to say dogs “see with their noses.”

But in order for the incredible sensory apparatus within the canine nose to operate at full capacity, the external skin must be moist and spongy.

Brachycephalic dog breeds like Boxers are especially prone to dry, cracked noses due to the anatomy of their heads. Their noses sit high on their stubby muzzles, making it difficult to reach them with their tongues.

Luckily, protecting your Boxer from the discomfort and decreased sensory input of a dry nose can be achieved in two simple steps:

1. Pinpoint the Cause(s)

• Weather: You may notice that your dog’s nose is affected by extreme heat or cold, or that sun exposure contributes to its dryness. Indoor heating in the winter can also be a culprit.
• Allergies: Boxers are often prone to seasonal, contact and food allergies. You may want to avoid plastic bowls and toys and consult with your vet about your dog’s particular sensitivities.
• Dehydration: Make sure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, especially in hot, humid weather. If he or she is drinking or urinating excessively, see your vet to rule out diabetes or problems with the kidneys which can cause dehydration.
• Medical Conditions: There are several medical conditions that can contribute to a dog’s dry nose including neurological issues that cause excessive licking and autoimmune disorders. See your vet regularly and report any concerning symptoms. He or she may recommend lab work to rule out a serious problem.

2. Apply A Soothing Nose Balm

Barring any underlying medical condition, you can begin to heal your dog’s crusty nose with a soothing product like Nature’s Butter Nose Balm. Hand-mixed on a family farm in Minnesota, this cruelty-free balm is composed of a mixture of Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Avocado Oil, Coca Seed Butter and Castor Oil.

The different oils and butters absorb into the skin at varying rates, ensuring maximum, long-lasting effects. First, the lighter oils soak in for fast results. Next, the medium weight oils add a deeper layer of moisture. And finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s nose, bringing extra relief.

Wonderful product, it really does work. In 4 days it smoothed my little guys nose. So happy that there’s a product that does what it said it would. This is staying on my great product list. Thank you

Very excellent product & Dooley gives it a 4 paws up solute!! Thanks for your wonderful product!!

Love this and my dogs nose is softer and the cracks all healed!

Learn more and get yours here!

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.

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes.

Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world.

Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, goes so far as to say dogs “see with their noses.”

But in order for the incredible sensory apparatus within the canine nose to operate at full capacity, the external skin must be moist and spongy.

Brachycephalic dog breeds like Pugs are especially prone to dry, cracked noses due to the anatomy of their heads. Their noses sit high on their stubby muzzles, making it difficult to reach them with their tongues.

Luckily, protecting your Pug from the discomfort and decreased sensory input of a dry nose can be achieved in two simple steps:

1. Pinpoint the Cause(s)

• Weather: You may notice that your dog’s nose is affected by extreme heat or cold, or that sun exposure contributes to its dryness. Indoor heating in the winter can also be a culprit.
• Allergies: Pugs are often prone to seasonal, contact and food allergies. You may want to avoid plastic bowls and toys and consult with your vet about your dog’s particular sensitivities.
• Dehydration: Make sure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, especially in hot, humid weather. If he or she is drinking or urinating excessively, see your vet to rule out diabetes or problems with the kidneys which can cause dehydration.
• Medical Conditions: There are several medical conditions that can contribute to a dog’s dry nose including neurological issues that cause excessive licking and autoimmune disorders. See your vet regularly and report any concerning symptoms. He or she may recommend lab work to rule out a serious problem.

2. Apply A Soothing Nose Balm

Barring any underlying medical condition, you can begin to heal your dog’s crusty nose with a soothing product like Nature’s Butter Nose Balm. Hand-mixed on a family farm in Minnesota, this cruelty-free balm is composed of a mixture of Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Avocado Oil, Coca Seed Butter and Castor Oil.

The different oils and butters absorb into the skin at varying rates, ensuring maximum, long-lasting effects. First, the lighter oils soak in for fast results. Next, the medium weight oils add a deeper layer of moisture. And finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s nose, bringing extra relief.

Wonderful product, it really does work. In 4 days it smoothed my little guys nose. So happy that there’s a product that does what it said it would. This is staying on my great product list. Thank you

Very excellent product & Dooley gives it a 4 paws up solute!! Thanks for your wonderful product!!

Love this and my dogs nose is softer and the cracks all healed!

Learn more and get yours here!

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.