Fit 'N' Furry

Ticks - Nasty Little Vampires

2009-01-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

If you have ever taken your dog out for a walk in an open field, chances are you have encountered a tick. Although dogs are more likely to pick up ticks in the summer months, the little buggers are still out there during the wintertime as well. Unless you live in an area where it snows in the winter you need to be on the lookout year round. I took my dog out for a hike just the other day and although I was careful to keep him on the trail he still managed to pick up 4 ticks. The best way to prevent ticks from biting your pooch is to keep them on a regular course of Advantage or Frontline, and if you have a dog who is constantly out in tick territory you should also think about getting them a tick collar.

When you get home from your hike you should give your dog a good going over. Ticks tend to head for the warmer areas on you dog, like behind the ears or under the tail. They aren't to picky though, and they will latch on wherever they can. If you do find a tick already burrowed in your dog, you should remove it immediately. If you put a little rubbing alcohol on the tick it should start to release or even back out altogether. After applying the alcohol use some tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the head as possible. You want to make sure not to squeeze; just gently wiggle the tick to encourage it to let go, taking care not to break off the head and leave it burrowed in the dog. Once removed simply flush the tick down the toilet, wash your hands, and apply a little anti-bacterial ointment to the tick site. If you think you may not have gotten the entire tick out of the dog you should watch the area very carefully to make sure an infection does not begin. If the area does become agitated you should take the dog to the Vet. Happy hiking!

What is K-9 Cough / Kennel Cough?

2008-10-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

Everyone has heard of K-9 Cough or Kennel Cough, and some of us have first hand experience with it. It is equivalent to a human catching a cough or common cold that is going around. If your dog comes down with K-9 Cough he will start coughing, but his general health will remain the same he won't loose his appetite, have a temperature, or feel lethargic. His incessant coughing will be annoying to both you and him, but life threatening cases of this infection are extremely rare, and dogs will often recover on their own in 7-21 days without any type of treatment. It is a good idea to take your dog to the vet for treatment just to be safe, and the veterinarian will prescribe cough suppressants or antibiotics.

K-9 Cough is transmitted by a virus expelled from an infected dog. This virus can be airborne, or anywhere that an infected dog has been; say in a common water dish at the dog park. Just like humans have a higher chance of catching a cold in an enclosed and heavily populated environment like an airplane, elevator, or an office, dogs have a higher chance of catching a K-9 Cough in an enclosed area that is not well ventilated. Many dogs can be carriers without exhibiting symptoms themselves and a dog may carry the virus for several days after they have fully recovered. Just like in humans some dogs are especially susceptible to the virus whereas others seems to have a higher level of immunity to it.

A dog may catch K-9 Cough from a Champion show dog at a show, from the dog down the street, or from the Vet's office. Because it is often refereed to as Kennel Cough people associate K-9 Cough with a kennel. Though dogs can catch K-9 Cough in a kennel, it is often not the source of the infection. No matter how well ventilated, spacious, and hygienic the kennel is, there is still a possibility a dog may develop K-9 Cough.

In many cases the cough will simply run its course and the dog will recover. In some cases it will persist and a veterinarian will prescribe an antibiotic to assist the dogs immune system. The best method of prevention is to vaccinate the dog twice a year with the Bordetella Vaccine. This will HELP prevent K-9 cough. The Bordetella vaccine acts much like the Flu vaccine in humans. It will minimize the risk of infection but will not completely prevent it. Also, you should be aware that once your dog has received this vaccine he may carry the symptoms and either pass the illness or contract it himself simply by being vaccinated.

Really the bottom line is that your dog could pick up this common doggy cold anywhere, and although it's no fun it's not a big deal.

Is Dumpster Diving your dogs new hobby?

2008-10-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

Who Me?I don’t know about your dog but mine has taken a liking to going through the trash, just to make sure I haven’t thrown something tasty away. He never does it while I am home, but if I leave him for a few minuets and don’t make sure to put the trash out I am certain to walk in on a MESS. I do my best to remember to put the trash out so that it won’t be a temptation, however I don’t want to know he is waiting for his moment either. So, I learned a trick! I set up a little trap, first I got a bunch of empty soda cans and a cookie sheet, then I balanced the sheet on top of the trash can with the cans on the sheet. I made sure there were some very tempting and smelly items in the trash and then I stepped out for a little walk. I didn’t go far, I just waited until I heard the clatter, so I made sure to get back in case he had the chance to get something juicy out of the trash. When I returned the cans were all over the floor and my dog was as far away from the trash can as he could be. I think I made my point! He is very careful about approaching the trash can now and generally cuts it a wide berth. The best part is that he is convinced the trash can made the noise, not me so I know he will think twice about dumpster diving whether I am there or not.

Toxic foods for your dog!

2008-10-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

These foods your dog could find in any kitchen.

Tomatoes

This fruit contains tomatine which dogs cannot process; tomatine in tomatoes and solonine in potatoes are cholinesterase inhibitors – meaning they inhibit the breakdown of a neurotransmitter in nerves causing excessive stimulation.

Keep in mind that there is very little tomatine is in ripe fruit. The highest concentration is found in flowers and the lowest found in ripe fruits. Symptoms include lethargy, breathing difficulties, drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, paralysis, seizures and/or death.

Raisins/Grapes

Raisins and grapes are foods that dogs simply cannot process (exact cause unknown) and can result in kidney failure. One single serving can be fatal to a dog’s system. However, not every dog or cat is susceptible and some dogs can tolerate large quantities of grapes or raisins without any clinical signs. Additionally the amount of grapes or raisins that may cause renal failure is not exactly known, so any amount could potentially be dangerous. Given the unknowns of raisins and grapes it is best to err on the safe side and avoid giving these foods to your dog.

Garlic/Onions

While onions are stronger, both garlic and onions contain thiosulphate which can severely damage red blood cells and cause anemia, difficulty breathing and lethargy.

Avocados

Avocados contain persin which is destructive to the heart and lung as well as other tissues in animals – the exact way is unknown. Additionally the high fat in avocados can upset a dog’s stomach and cause vomiting and possibly pancreatitis . Symptoms are subtle but include breathing difficulties and a bloated abdomen.

Pits

Most fruit pits including apple seeds, cherry pits, peach pits, avocado pits, plum pits and all pits of that ilk contain cyanide which is poisonous. The accumulation of small amounts of cyanide or a large ingestion will lead to death.

Caffeine

Caffeine, which can be found in coffee grounds or tea bags, is a natural stimulant and thus stimulates the heart as well as the nervous system. Caffeine in dogs can result in vomiting, agitation, heart palpitations and possibly death. Further symptoms are similar to those associated with chocolate.

ENTER to WIN!

2008-09-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend don't forget to come out and join Fit'N'Furry at the Santa Rosa Home Show and Family Expo at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. If you stop by Fit'N'Furry's booth we will give you a Bark Buck, plus you can enter yourself in the drawing to WIN the GRAND PRIZE. To find out more about the prizes go to www.fitnfurrynews.com, you can even add yourself to the drawing from this site and we have some FREE training tips for you! We will see you at the Expo.

Are the Dogs REALLY Playing?

Have you even been at a dog park watching you pooch play, then things start to get a little more serious? All the other owners say, "Their just playing, let them have fun." However, it is not always a good idea to let the dogs continue playing when they get too excited. There is such a thing as good and bad play, just because the dogs are playing does not mean it is appropriate behavior. We all need to remember that play is shaping our dogs behavior, and certain behaviors can develop into problems over time, both with dogs and humans.

There are some characteristics of Good Play, both dogs should be willing participants, that is one dog should not be pushing another into activity. There should always be a loose body language throughout the play session, and no one should be getting hurt or yelping in pain. If the play is to hard and fast many times things will escalate and the play can turn into a fight very quickly. Pay close attention to whether your dog is actually having fun or engaging his prey drive. Many times all that is needed is a brief distraction or interruption from you to change the tone of the play time.

Plenty of Doggie Goodies to WIN!

2008-09-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

WIN the GRAND PRIZE!
To find out more about the prizes we're offering go to www.fitnfurrynews.com enter your e-mail to add yourself to the drawing. This weekend come join Fit’N'Furry at the Santa Rosa Home Show and Family Expo at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. If you stop by Fit’N'Furry’s booth we will give you a Bark Buck, plus you can enter yourself in the drawing. We will see you at the Expo.
Do you know when your pet is in pain?
Don't you wish your pet could talk to you sometimes, just to tell you what is going on with them. It can be so hard to know what your animal is feeling or if there is even something wrong. The primary factor in being able to determine whether an animal is in pain is knowing it's normal behavior. Pet owners know right away when their animal is acting differently and then they begin to ask themselves questions about what may be causing it. Cats tend to be great at disguising their pain and will often hide or become less interactive rather that show obvious signs of pain. Dogs on the other hand may let you know immediately or just become very quiet. Signs of pain may include, decrease in appetite, decreased activity, decreased interaction with the family or other pets, sleeping more, avoiding obstacles such as stairs. Sometimes these signs may be misinterpreted as the animals 'getting older'. It can be easy to overlook something because it does not seem serious, so we must remember to pay special attention to our animals when their normal behavior changes in any way.

WIN the GRAND PRIZE!

2008-09-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Fit’N'Furry was at the Marin Civic Center last weekend for the Bay Area Pet Fair and Adoptathon we met many of you and your furry friends. There was a tremendous turnout and many prizes were WON!

This coming weekend, September 19, 20, 21 Fit’N'Furry will be at the
FALL HOME SHOW AND FAMILY EXPO collecting names for our drawing.

You don’t need to be present to be included in the drawing, and it is so simple to sign up. Just follow the link to www.fitnfurrynews.com to find out what you could win and enter your e-mail. Don’t forget to watch the FREE Training Tip we have for you!

Hours: Fri. 1 - 8pm; Sat. 10 - 7pm; Sun. 10 - 6 pm
Location: Grace Pavilion, Hall of Flowers, Finley Hall, Garden Building, Kraft Hall, Garrett Hall, and outdoor areas
Admission: $7.00, 12 & under free

A fun filled weekend is planned for every member of the family at two great shows all for one low admission price. At the 19th annual Family Expo fun entertainment, concerts, animals, contests, rides for the kids and lots of family exhibits. Bring a can or box of food for the Redwood Empire Food Bank and Receive $2 off your admission price. Locations: All six big exhibit halls, lots of outdoor exhibits and food vendors.

Clicker Training - From Dolphins to Dogs

2008-09-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Click to Communicate!
Unfortunately dogs don't speak English, however the clicker provides you with a clear and simple form or communication with your pooch.

This method of training was first developed to train dolphins. The trainers needed to devise a way of rewarding them for doing the desired behavior. If the dolphin jumped through a hoop and then had to swim back to the trainer for his fish reward he wasn't quite sure what he had done right. The trainers began using a high pitched whistle that the animal could hear even under the water, then they 'loaded' the whistle (feeding the dolphin whenever the whistle was blown) thus the dolphin associated the sound with the reward. When he jumped through the hoop he heard the whistle and knew that was the behavior that was wanted and that a fish was coming. This wonderful method has been used to train all types of animals but works particularly well with dogs, the only difference is instead of a whistle they use a clicker. This method is actually a conditioned response or 'operant conditioning' which is when an animal intentionally performs an action for the desired outcome, namely a treat. This actually employs the animal to act with purpose instead of just habit. Any behavior can be taught using these steps: get the behavior, mark the behavior, reward the behavior. This method can be used for basic obedience or for more advanced training.

Think about it: if you had to go to work every day and never got paid, most likely you wouldn't last long, but you get up every morning and work hard because you know that you are getting some form of compensation. So, let's not forget to pay our dogs for a job well done; come and learn the steps behind getting this method to work for you.

707.769.PETS or 707.769.7387

www.fitnfurry.com

Call Fit'N'Furry today to find out more about our Clicker Training Classes and when they start.

FitnFurry.com Doggie Boarding & Day Care Santa Rosa & Petaluma

2008-07-14T12:54:00.001-07:00

www.FitnFurry.com - dog boarding (cats too!), doggie daycare, dog grooming, and dog training. With us, your pet's day is all about furry fun playtime and comfort as a guest in our state of the art pet care facility.

14 Tips for Crate Training Your New Puppy

2008-07-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

by Peggie Arvidson-Dailey

Your new puppy is arriving and you have heard of crate-training, but are not sure how to make it work for you and your newest addition. From years of experience as a pet-owner, lover and specialist, I have learned some things about crate training that I'd like to share with you. Training your puppy is also paramount to them being integrated into a kennel or dog boarding facility and being from Santa Rosa there were many places local that worked for me.

Crate training is a wonderful part of an overall family training program if handled correctly. Your puppy will feel secure in his space if you make it a pleasurable experience from the very beginning by following these 14 tips.

1. Get a crate large enough to allow your pup space to turn around, stand up and lie down for a nap.

2. Put a soft blanket in the crate, preferably with his mother's scent on it when you bring him home.

3. Make sure to put his toys for chewing and a treat or two in the space furthest from the 'door'.

4. Put the crate in a corner of the room where he can feel out of the way, yet have access to you.

5. Let your pup wander in and out of the crate to get a feel for it, the crate makes a nice 'den' for your puppy and he will likely take to it for comfort and solace when he is tired, over-excited or worried.

6. Remove your pet's collar/s before closing the crate to avoid any choking.

7. Have a bottle of water with ice hooked to the crate if you will leave your puppy for more than an hour.

8. When it's time to be crated, tell your puppy "Crate" or "Bed" and show him to the crate. You may put a treat in there if you have been training him with treats.

9. Don't ever scare him into the crate, put him in there as a punishment or otherwise encourage a negative connotation to the crate.

10. Practice this several times a day during his first few weeks home. Leaving him in the crate for short intervals while you leave the house. He will soon realize that you come back and let him out.

11. If your dog needs something to chew, make sure you give him a toy that he cannot shred, break or otherwise harm himself with. If he is an aggressive chewer, I recommend the Galileo Bone by Nylabone.

12. When you let your puppy out of the crate, immediately take him outside to relieve himself. For very young puppies, this will likely be every 4 hours. On average a puppy needs a break in as many hours as he is months old - if your puppy is 4 months, please give him a potty break every four hours.

13. When you are leaving, or putting him in the crate, give him his command "Crate", praise him gently when he complies (but do not get effusive - you don't want him to get all riled up) and then leave without a commotion.

14. Upon returning, open the crate and let your puppy come out at his own pace. Don't make a big fuss, simply praise him gently, put on his collar and leash and take him outside.

Crate training is a valuable asset to any training program for new puppies and can help enhance your relationship with your canine pal. A happy and comfortable puppy will mature into a well-mannered and loving companion.