Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!
October is the American Humane Association's Adopt-A-Dog Month and The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
If you are looking for unconditional love, an exercise buddy, a best friend, a sport partner, a walking companion or simply a happy face to greet you at the front door after a hard day at work, then adopt a dog! Your local shelter is the perfect place to find dogs of every type, size, age and personality -- all waiting for a loving home. Even pure-bred dogs and cats. Or, if you are looking for a particular breed that you don’t see at your local shelter, find a breed-specific rescue group on the internet. They need adopters too.
Niki Tudge, founder of The DogSmith national dog training and pet care franchise, says “animals from shelters make excellent pets, but they may have some easily fixed behaviors so choosing the right dog and finding the right training is important.” In fact, a recent study conducted by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy found that a majority of dogs are surrendered to shelters for behavior problems that are easily corrected or the dog didn’t fit into the lifestyle of the owner. The study can be seen at The ASPCA's web site (http://www.aspca.org).
Tudge said, “By adopting a shelter animal, not only do you end up with a well behaved, wonderful family member but the training you go through with your dog will be fun and helps establish a fantastic bond between you and your pet. We have special programs for dogs adopted from shelters and we offer free puppy classes. All of our training is very easy, even the youngest family members can control the family dog.”
According to The ASPCA, people bringing a companion animal into their lives need to review thoroughly their lifestyle and their level of commitment to the animal's care. The ASPCA advises people to ask themselves the following five questions before adopting a dog:

1. Am I ready to make a long-term commitment? Adopting a pet means being responsible for its health and happiness for the rest of his or her life, this could be up to 15 years for dogs.
2. Is the animal right for my household? A strong, active pet may be too much for a young child or elderly person to handle. Small pets may be too delicate for rough play with children. Always make sure that everyone in the household agrees to the adoption.
3. Who will be the primary caretaker for the animal? One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the pet's needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.
4. Can I afford the animal? The cost of a pet is more than just the purchase price or adoption fee; remember to include the cost of food, pet supplies, veterinarian bills and training.
5. Am I ready to commit to making this dog a good canine citizen? A well-trained dog is a pleasure and is welcome in public parks, on walks, and as a visitor. Research shows that people who take the time to train their dogs are more likely to keep them longer than people who don’t.
If you are looking to add a dog to your family then consider adopting from a shelter or rescue group! For more information on The DogSmith’s free puppy classes, their Canine Rescue Resource Program or if you’d like help choosing a dog appropriate to your lifestyle visit www.DogSmith/rwilliams.com.



About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!
October is the American Humane Association's Adopt-A-Dog Month and The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
If you are looking for unconditional love, an exercise buddy, a best friend, a sport partner, a walking companion or simply a happy face to greet you at the front door after a hard day at work, then adopt a dog! Your local shelter is the perfect place to find dogs of every type, size, age and personality -- all waiting for a loving home. Even pure-bred dogs and cats. Or, if you are looking for a particular breed that you don’t see at your local shelter, find a breed-specific rescue group on the internet. They need adopters too.
Niki Tudge, founder of The DogSmith national dog training and pet care franchise, says “animals from shelters make excellent pets, but they may have some easily fixed behaviors so choosing the right dog and finding the right training is important.” In fact, a recent study conducted by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy found that a majority of dogs are surrendered to shelters for behavior problems that are easily corrected or the dog didn’t fit into the lifestyle of the owner. The study can be seen at The ASPCA's web site (http://www.aspca.org).
Tudge said, “By adopting a shelter animal, not only do you end up with a well behaved, wonderful family member but the training you go through with your dog will be fun and helps establish a fantastic bond between you and your pet. We have special programs for dogs adopted from shelters and we offer free puppy classes. All of our training is very easy, even the youngest family members can control the family dog.”
According to The ASPCA, people bringing a companion animal into their lives need to review thoroughly their lifestyle and their level of commitment to the animal's care. The ASPCA advises people to ask themselves the following five questions before adopting a dog:

1. Am I ready to make a long-term commitment? Adopting a pet means being responsible for its health and happiness for the rest of his or her life, this could be up to 15 years for dogs.
2. Is the animal right for my household? A strong, active pet may be too much for a young child or elderly person to handle. Small pets may be too delicate for rough play with children. Always make sure that everyone in the household agrees to the adoption.
3. Who will be the primary caretaker for the animal? One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the pet's needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.
4. Can I afford the animal? The cost of a pet is more than just the purchase price or adoption fee; remember to include the cost of food, pet supplies, veterinarian bills and training.
5. Am I ready to commit to making this dog a good canine citizen? A well-trained dog is a pleasure and is welcome in public parks, on walks, and as a visitor. Research shows that people who take the time to train their dogs are more likely to keep them longer than people who don’t.
If you are looking to add a dog to your family then consider adopting from a shelter or rescue group! For more information on The DogSmith’s free puppy classes, their Canine Rescue Resource Program or if you’d like help choosing a dog appropriate to your lifestyle visit www.DogSmith/rwilliams.com.



About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Pig Ear Recal, March 8th 2011

Jones Natural Chews Co of Rockford, IL is recalling 2705 boxes of Pig Ears because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Jones Natural Chews Pig Ears were distributed in CT, IA, IL, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NJ, NM, NY, PA,VA, WA, and WI. They were shipped to distributors and retailers between September 15, 2010 and November 2, 2010 where they were available for purchase.

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 2pk bag with header card–item upc 741956001047 lot 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 100ct box-box upc 741956001139 lot 2490, 2560, 2630, 2700, 2840, 2910, 2980

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 50 ct box-box upc 741956001504 lot 2490, 2840

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 25ct box-box upc 741956001467 lot 2700

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2700, 2840, 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 10pk printed bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2420, 2560, 2630, 2840

Blain’s Farm & Fleet Pig Ears 10 pieces bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2560

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001511 lot 2630

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2420

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 12pk bag-item upc 741956001245 lot 2910

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by Washington State Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has no product left in inventory from this batch of pig ears.

Consumers who have purchased any of these pig ears are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-481-2663.


If you are looking for a safe alternative. Look no further

Few things bring your dog more enjoyment that chewing on a tasty treat. And yet, every year, untold numbers of dogs suffer from a variety of digestive issues as a result of consuming rawhide. Not only that, but frequently rawhide is preserved with harmful chemicals.

That’s why we developed a line of chew treats made using pork products, which are much easier on your dog’s entire digestive system and are free from potentially harmful chemicals. Our pork treats are guaranteed to be not only safe, but incomparably appetizing to your sweet pup as well.

Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there’s a pork treat made just for their size. So, say “goodbye” to traditional chew products, and give your dog something he or she can really enjoy – safely!

Visit the following site for a selection of health dog and cat treats. Never involved in a recall made by a respectable holistic pet food company www.superior-dog-food.com

A Survey On The “RISK FACTORS IN THE MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHILDREN AND DOGS”

This survey does not reveal surprising results to those who work as professional dog trainers or dog behavior counselors.

The aim of the research was

* To map a child’s knowledge of dog’s communication signals
* The understand the perception of a child’s own authority in the relationship with a dog and
* To determine the frequency of individual risk activities in their mutual contact.

The research abstract detailed that ‘ The research study has revealed alarming deficiencies, especially in the knowledge of communication signals and canine body language. The awareness of signs of the two most hazardous communication signals (threat and attack) was very poor”.

RISK FACTORS IN THE MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHILDREN AND DOGS

Journal of Nursing, Social Studies and Public Health, Vol. 1, No. 1–2, 2010, pp. 102–109

Marie Chlopčíková, Adéla Mojžíšová
University of South Bohemia, College of Health and Social Studies, České Budějovice, Czech Republic

CONCLUSION
Every relationship, even that between a child and dog, should be based on mutual respect and understanding that allows not only trouble-free interaction, but also creates
a good basis for a positive approach and relationship of both partners. If the child is supposed to create and strengthen the relationship with an animal – a dog – he/she must learn to know and respect not only dog’s basic physiological needs and supervision of the dog’s health status and fitness, but also specific differences seen in the behavior and communication
(communication signals) of his/her animal companion (Fraňková 1999).

Ignorance of divergent patterns of behavior, perception of hierarchy (authority) by the animal in the human family, a variety of communication signals representing aversion
or pleasure of the animal, or just spending free time together (independent activities – walking the dog) puts both individuals into risky situations and represent primary causes
of possible conflict. The decision to let the child grow up together with a dog belongs, without a doubt, to one of the best decisions we can make. However, it is necessary to realize the
responsibility of adults in this relationship. A dog can make a child’s life richer – as a silent companion, a guardian, psychological support, and a loving and faithful friend. A
dog is worthy of our reverence and respect for all these positives. If children are taught to respect all living beings and pass this experience along, the positive consequences of our effort will enrich future generations (Hessler-Keyová 2002).

The full article can be sourced here

Thank you to Doggone Safe for bringing this important study to our attention.

Joan Orr of Doggone Safe added in her email newsletter dated March 9th 2011

Some Key Risk Factors Identified in this Study

* Children considering themselves to be the highest authority over the dog
* Children walking the dog without adult supervision
* Ignorance of dog body language signals – considered by the authors to be the main bite risk factor

The overall bite incidence in this study was 51% (of 200 children age 8-12). This is consistent with finding from our own survey of children in Be a Tree sessions that 54% (of 869 children age 5-9) has been bitten.

The results of this study provide strong support for the Doggone Safe approach of teaching children to read dog body language to help reduce the dog bite risk.

The DogSmith National Training Center will later on this year be rolling out an entire educational program around dog bite safety. This will be in partnership with Doggone Safe and Dogs & Storks. Watch out for our news releases. each locally owned and operated DogSmith Franchise will become a licensed Presenter on behalf of both these organizations

Contact Rachel Williams, Palm Beach county DogSmith for more details, www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

Thursday, March 3, 2011

The DogSmith Palm Beach County Fl offers Dog obedience training,

The DogSmith Palm Beach County Fl offers Dog obedience training, private dog training classes, dog behavior counseling, group training classes, canine board and train programs, latch key dog training, canine good citizen training, puppy star training, puppy socialization classes and a selection of pet care services, in home pet care, pet sitting, canine slumber parties, dog walking, pet waste cleanup and overnight pet sitting services. We service the following areas, Jupiter, Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Jupiter Inlet Beach Colony, Singer Island, Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, North Palm Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, Lake Park, Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, Hobe Sound, Stuart, Tequesta, and all of Palm Beach County. www.DogSmith.com