Dog News

Could Valentine’s Day Kill Your Dog?

Jasmine Klein — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:30:43 +0000

Many holidays cause a spike in poison-related cases for animals, and Valentine's Day is no exception. A holiday that's known for chocolate, flowers and cocktails can cause a myriad of poisoning possibilities. The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association is providing tips on how to prevent unwanted consequences with your favorite Valentine's Day treats.

Every rose has its thorn, so says the song – but thorns on roses or other flowers can be dangerous for dogs or other pets. Biting, stepping on or swallowing stems with thorns increases risk for a puncture, which can result in serious infections internally or externally.

Many people receive chocolate on Valentine's Day, but chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic, but dark, milk, semi-sweet and baker's chocolates all can cause adverse reactions. Darker chocolates contain caffeine-like stimulants that cause gastrointestinal, neurologic, and cardiac functions that can cause vomiting/diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and elevated heart rate. High fat in lighter chocolates can cause life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas, so make sure to keep the chocolate where pets can't reach it.

Cocktails also pose a threat to pets. Because of their smaller size, even a small amount of alcohol stolen from a low-sitting glass or lapped off the floor after a spill can cause dramatic problems like vomiting/diarrhea, lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, and even coma.

In addition, be sure to blow out any unattended candles when you leave the room and put away wrapping paper and bows from gifts after opening. Valentine's Day can be fun for everyone with just a little forethought. If you think your pet has been poisoned, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 800.213.6680.

Half Of UK Dogs Will Receive Christmas Dinner

Jasmine Klein — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:00:40 +0000

Christmas is a time the whole family is together, a time to enjoy and cherish the memories made and it seems Britain’s dog owners are taking this message to heart as a new survey reveals.

The UK’s lucky canines can expect to enjoy the festive season as much as their owners as an incredible 49% of owners will be preparing them their very own special doggie dinner on the big day.

According to the recent survey carried out on behalf of Direct Line Pet Insurance, of the 1,021 dog owners questioned, almost half (49%) are planning to make a special Christmas meal for their dogs and with 46% planning a special family walk with their dog, it will soon be walked off!

Adam Whiteley, head of pet insurance at Direct Line, offered this advice to dog owners: “Dog owners going to the trouble of cooking a special Christmas dinner for their best furry friend are clearly doing so out of love and festive spirit. It’s worth remembering that there are a few things dogs shouldn’t eat at all, even on special occasions, as doing so can make them very ill or even cause death in extreme cases. Chocolate, raisins, onions, and added salt should all be avoided, as should sharp or small bones. It’s a good idea to make sure that all food items and treats are stored well out of reach of pets, during the holidays and all year round.”

According to the survey, 89% of Britain’s dogs can expect a delivery from Santa left under the tree for them to spend the holidays enjoying.

40% Britain’s dogs will have an average of £10 on presents spent this year with a lucky 9% having gifts worth more than £100 awaiting them.

Toys are the most favoured present of choice, but pampering with collars, leads and clothes also top the list of most desired presents.

However, with 26% of Britain’s dogs enjoying chewing presents, it might be advisable to make sure Santa’s little four legged helpers have someone keeping an eye out for them.

K9 Magazine editor Ryan O’Meara offered this thoughts on the findings,“The fact that nearly half of all dog owners are preparing to fully include their canine pals in the Christmas festivities is indicative of just how much the relationship between pets and their owners has changed in modern times. Dogs are now considered fully fledged members of the family and this research highlights just how seriously owners take that relationship. Dogs bring us so much joy every day, it’s nice to hear that owners take great delight in including them at this special time.”

Donald Trump Out, Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan In

Jasmine Klein — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:53:43 +0000

After entrepreneur Donald Trump pulled out of moderating a GOP debate, a "giant ego-shaped hole" was left in the Republican primaries, according to The Colbert Report's Stephen Colbert in a televised December 14 statement — and Nat Geo WILD is springing into action like a lion on a wildebeest.

Nat Geo WILD and Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan have agreed to host the next "Serious, Classy Republican" debate with Colbert as the moderator — and officially invite the candidates to participate! The network has started recruiting pint-sized animal-loving participants from around the country to attend the debate, per Colbert's goal of getting kids involved.

Said David Lyle, chief executive officer of the National Geographic Channels US, "If Colbert wants animals in the buff, we'll get them. If he wants kids in the audience, we'll start before bedtime. Bring on the candidates for the greatest battle in the history of the universe. It will be red in tooth and claw."

Millan, a People's Choice Award winner for Favorite Animal Show, said, "PAC(k) leaders unite! The candidates need someone to moderate with "Tsssst!" power. This is going to be WILD."

In officially challenging the candidates to participate, Millan plans to head to the Iowa Caucus on January 3 — before his new season of Dog Whisperer premieres Saturday, January 7 — to see problem candidate behaviors he can start rehabbing. "Pooches are easy, people are hard, and political candidates … that's a whole different animal," he said.

Don’t Buy Pet Store Puppies Urges Charity

Jasmine Klein — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 09:22:31 +0000

With the festive season upon us, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), as part of its national "No Pet Store Puppies" campaign, is urging consumers to help fight puppy farm cruelty by refusing to shop at pet stores and on websites that sell puppies.

The Christmas period is one of the busiest times of year for pet stores as many families hope to give the gift of a new puppy, but many consumers are unaware they are supporting the inhumane puppy mill industry by shopping for anything at pet stores that sell puppies.

"The image of an adorable puppy with a red bow is a familiar icon of the holiday season," said Laurie Beacham, senior director of ASPCA Strategy & Campaigns. "Unfortunately, chances are that the puppy in your local pet store came from a puppy mill, and shopping for anything at those stores this holiday season only serves to perpetuate animal suffering."

Consumers who purchase a puppy from a pet store or website run the risk of taking home an unhealthy puppy in addition to the risk of unknowingly supporting a cruel industry. Operators of puppy mills breed dogs in unsanitary, overcrowded conditions where profit is given priority over the well-being of the dogs. The ASPCA believes that consumer action is a critical element in the fight against puppy mills. Convincing consumers not to shop for anything—including puppies and supplies—at stores that sell puppies is the most effective way to stop the demand for puppy mill dogs. The ASPCA ultimately seeks to convince pet stores to limit their business to pet supplies and encourages them to partner with their local shelters to offer adoptable pets in their stores.

As part of the No Pet Store Puppies campaign, 40 outdoor billboards will be unveiled in the Los Angeles, Calif., area to raise awareness about the connection between pet stores and puppy mills and encourage shoppers to give a new life to a homeless dog or cat by adopting from their local animal shelter or rescue organization. Approximately five to seven million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year, and millions are destroyed simply because there is no one to adopt them. Billboards in other locations were posted earlier in the year.

Beacham added, "Many people think they are 'rescuing' the cute puppy playing in their local pet store window by purchasing it, but they are actually opening up that cage for another puppy mill puppy. Instead, why not give a lovable shelter dog a special gift of a loving home this season? That makes for a win-win holiday for all."

To learn more about the ASPCA's No Pet Store Puppies campaign, please visit www.NoPetStorePuppies.com.

If you are interested in helping to fight puppy farming in the UK, visit: Puppy Love Campaigns

Cesar Millan To Be Given Award

Jasmine Klein — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:31:35 +0000

North Shore Animal League America will hold its annual DogCatemy Rescue Awards Dinner on Thursday, December 8th at 6:00 pm at the NASDAQ MarketSite in Times Square, New York City. Highlighting the life-saving efforts of the Animal League, this annual event will begin with the Closing Bell Ceremony, followed by a celebrity Red Carpet cocktail hour and a program that will spotlight NSALA's guests of honour: Cesar Millan, World Renowned Dog Expert, and David Wicks, Vice President of The NASDAQ OMX Group.

Animal lover and nationally respected co-host of FOX News Channel's FOX and Friends, Brian Kilmeade, will lead the program as Master of Ceremonies. The evening is themed around the rapidly expanding Mutt-i-grees® Curriculum, where beginning at a very young age students are learning about social and emotional skills, and strategies to promote shelter pets, otherwise known as Mutt-i-grees®.

The Animal League will bestow the inaugural "Cesar Millan Award for Excellence in Mutt-i-grees Education" to Cesar Millan, internationally renowned dog rehabilitation expert and star of Nat Geo WILD's 'The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan'. The award recognizes the impact Cesar Millan is having in the humane field and honours him for his many contributions, including the founding of the Millan Foundation. This Foundation funds the Mutt-i-grees Curriculum, a collaboration between North Shore Animal League America and Yale University's School of the 21st Century, promoting the development of calm, confident and caring children who can make a difference in the lives of people and animals.

"Cesar Millan has truly set himself apart as a leader and adoption advocate," said John Stevenson, President of North Shore Animal League America. He added, "His generosity and financial support, as well as his commitment and extensive involvement in the Mutt-i-grees Curriculum are raising the standard for humane education. Cesar's dedication is evident in contributing to new trends and lessons for people and pets to ensure a happy, loving life together."

The Animal League's Corporate Champion Award will be presented to David Wicks, Vice President of The NASDAQ OMX Group. The award recognizes the deep appreciation that Wicks has shown for the precious animals that can be found in shelters and his continuing efforts to identify opportunities to promote the adoption of homeless pets.

"David Wicks has wholeheartedly embraced the Mutt-i-grees Movement, both professionally and personally," said Stevenson. "He has taken every opportunity to promote the message that adoption is the best option when looking for a pet. He himself adopted a German Shepherd Mutt-i-gree from the Animal League and appropriately named the dog Freedom."

The evening will include a special presentation featuring prize-winning Public Service Announcements created by students nationwide, encouraging Americans to adopt Mutt-i-grees. The students participated in a national contest that is part of the Mutt-i-grees Curriculum. A $10,000 Grand Prize grant and three $1,500 Regional Prize grants will be presented to each winning school at the event. The winning schools are from Pennsylvania, California, Kentucky, and Texas. Funding for the contest and grant prizes was made possible through the generosity of the friends and family of Tamara Tullman, a North Shore Animal League America volunteer who adored animals and loved to teach children.

The DogCatemy Rescue Awards Dinner reflects North Shore Animal League America's belief that all shelter pets find a loving home. Since its inception in 1944, the Animal League has saved more than one million lives. The proceeds from the DogCatemy Rescue Awards Dinner will enable the Animal League to strengthen its nationwide rescue efforts, saving nearly 20,000 lives each year. To learn more about North Shore Animal League America, visit AnimalLeague.org.

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Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber Adopt Puppy

Jasmine Klein — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:48:22 +0000

Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber have adopted a puppy from an animal rescue centre in Winnipeg according to reports.

The pair, who have millions of fans, have been praised for going down the adoption route rather than buying a dog from a pet store, as some other celebrities have done.

High profile dog adoption advocates have helped raise awareness of the positive aspects of taking a dog from a rescue environment in the past and whilst it's hoped that their many fans won't jump in to getting a new dog without properly researching, the adoption gives a much needed shot in the arm to animal welfare advocates who have encouraged people to adopt before buying.

Adopt a dog, bring joy.

October 4th World Animal Day 2011

Jasmine Klein — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 07:56:08 +0000

Animal lovers are being urged to get involved in World Animal Day 2011 to show their support for animal welfare around the globe.

Launched in the UK on 4 October 2003, organisations, groups, animal shelters, places of worship, schools, clubs and individuals have participated in what was to become an annual event on this special day to celebrate the relationship between man and his animal friends.

Animal enthusiasts can learn more about how to get involved: http://www.worldanimalday.org.uk/get_involved.asp

Resources: http://worldanimalday.org.uk/resources.asp

Just one of the events being carried out for World Animal Day 2011 is The Kucinski Wildlife Foundation's Art and Photo Walk for Animals

Find out more: http://www.kwf-ecological.org.uk/WorldAnimalDay.html

Speaking about World Animal Day 2011, UK WAD Ambassador Ryan O'Meara says:

"Every day of every year animals have such a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. By dedicating a special day to honour that magical relationship, to organise events and to do whatever we can to help raise awareness about various animal welfare concerns, wherever they may be, is a wonderful way for us to commemorate our animal friends. World Animal Day is something I continue to be exceptionally proud to be associated with."

If you'd like to organise your own event or help promote World Animal Day 2011 – go here: http://www.worldanimalday.org.uk/get_involved.asp

Canine Osteoarthritis A Growing Dog Owner Problem

Jasmine Klein — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:38:31 +0000

Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that reduces a dog's mobility. A new report has suggested the problem is a growing concern for dog owners.

Arthritis in dogs is on the rise according to a study published by K9 Magazine.

The condition, which affects the mobility and joints of dogs of any age, is said to be increasing inline with the growing pet obesity problem which has seen more dogs than ever gaining weight and being above the normal healthy BMI for their age and breed.

Experts have suggested that canine osteoarthritis will continue to rise unless pet owners can gain control of their dog’s weight.

One of the key causes of arthritis in dogs is breed type and weight. It’s been claimed that as many as 1 in 4 dogs are above their natural weight.

Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, meaning there is no cure. However treatment and management of arthritis in dogs is readily available, meaning a diagnosis doesn’t have to mean the end of a dog’s ability to enjoy life, go for walks and suffer in pain.

Learn more: https://www.prbuzz.com/home-a-garden/55209-arthritis-in-dogs-concerns-owners.html

Dog Owners Turn to Vandalism in Protest at Dog Fences

Jasmine Klein — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:20:46 +0000

A report in the Toronto Star highlights the lengths some dog lovers are going to in their protest at dog fences being erected in so-called off leash dog parks:

A lawless, self-styled Liberation Front is threatening mayhem in the heart of the city. But most residents have little to fear, unless they are dog owners fretful of their pooches running amok.
An unidentified individual or group called the Doggy Liberation Front has been vandalizing fences in High Park’s off-leash areas, presumably with the intention of thwarting city efforts to restrict the animals’ range. Whatever the motivation, the DLF is barking up the wrong tree, says the park’s K9 liaison official.
In August, the city started erecting fences in the designated off-leash areas near Grenadier Restaurant that include Dog Hill and Spring Rd. The fencing restricts the ability of dogs to range more freely, but also protects the natural environment, including black oak trees vulnerable to erosion.

Read in full: http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1057784–dog-loving-vandals-target-fences-in-off-leash-areas

Syringomyelia Screening Scheme to Launch

Jasmine Klein — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:21:00 +0000

The British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club Canine Health Schemes (CHS) management committee has given the go-ahead for a new Scheme to screen dogs, particularly potential breeding stock, for chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia (CM/SM) to start in January 2012.

Chiari-like malformation (CM) is characterised by a mismatch in size between the brain (too big) and the skull (too small). This constricts the opening from the skull into the vertebral canal and alters the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As a result a fluid-filled cavity develops within the spinal cord called a syrinx, with the condition being called Syringomyelia (SM). Both conditions can cause a significant amount of pain.

These debilitating inherited conditions affect certain breeds, most prominently the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, but also the Griffon Bruxellois. CM/SM is also suspected to be inherited in a number of other small (toy) breeds including King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Affenpinschers and Maltese.

To take part in the Scheme owners will need to have their dog MRI scanned at a veterinary practice. The scans will then be reviewed by two scrutineers from a BVA-appointed panel of expert neurologists and radiologists and graded for severity for both CM and SM.

The results will be sent back to owners via the veterinary practice that performed the MRI scan. Results of Kennel Club registered dogs will be sent to the KC for publication on the KC Health Test Results Finder online and to the Animal Health Trust for inclusion in the Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) calculations.

Following consultation with breed club representatives and to achieve maximum take up of the Scheme it has been agreed that publication of results by the Kennel Club will commence once the first batch of results is available, which we expect by the end of the first quarter of 2012. In the interim, the online Health Test Results Finder will indicate that the dog has been screened and that results are available from the owner. User-friendly guidance on how to understand the results will be made available once the Scheme is launched.

The aim of the Scheme is to reduce, and hopefully eliminate, the incidence of inherited CM and SM in dogs.

Commenting, Harvey Locke, President of the British Veterinary Association, said:

“Syringomyelia is a terrible disease that causes severe pain. We are therefore delighted to announce the new Canine Health Scheme for CM/SM.

“It has taken over two years to develop the Scheme and we are confident that it will have a positive impact on the health and welfare of the afflicted breeds. The heritability of syringomyelia is sufficiently high that genetic selection against the disease should be very successful.

“We are very grateful to the team of scientists who have worked hard to make the Scheme possible and look forward to the launch in January.”

Prof Steve Dean, Chairman of the Kennel Club, added:

"We are very keen to encourage the greatest possible take up of the test by breeders of affected breeds. This is a key development in the work to tackle these debilitating conditions and we hope many breeders will use the Scheme."

The full details of how the Scheme will work will be finalised between now and the end of the year and procedure notes will be circulated to ensure that scans taken from now on will fully comply with the Scheme.