PETS All About
Tips for successful dog training
(Metro)
After providing a safe home, veterinary care and nutritious food, the best thing a pet owner can do for a dog is provide adequate behavioral training. Some of the issues that result in pet surrenders can be traced to behaviors that might have been quashed had the dog undergone thorough obedience training.
All dogs can benefit from learning basic commands, and the RSPCA says successful training is a rewarding part of dog ownership. There are many things one might want to teach a pet and a variety of strategies to pursue that training. These tips can help anyone successfully train their dog, leading to a an even stronger relationship between owner and pet.
• Elect a dog trainer. If a dog resides with many people in the household, select one person who will be the primary trainer to establish the ground rules of the training sessions. If multiple people bring various styles to the dog training, that could result in inconsistencies that confuse the animal. Once the training sessions have proven successful, the trainer can
share what he or she is doing with others in the home and they can mimic the same commands and gestures.
• Use positive reinforcement. According to Small Door Veterinary, almost all vets agree that positive reinforcement training is the most effective method of training a companion animal. This type of training rewards good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. The American Kennel Club says training is more successful when owners identify what the dog finds rewarding. Some dogs are very food-motivated, while others might be willing to work for play sessions or just verbal praise.
• Consistency is best. Always use the same word and intonation when asking a dog to do something. Everyone in the home also needs to be on the same page with rules, which means that if one person says “no” to the dog on the furniture and another says “yes,” the dog will end up confused.
• Patience is key. Although dogs can read human body language and gestures, they do not actually comprehend all language, says the
AKC. It can be some time before a dog understands all training requests.
• Start small and build up. Teach a dog commands incrementally and reward each step of the learning process. For example, reward the “stay” command even if the puppy only stays for a second or two. Later on, build up to longer durations of staying still.
• Praise small things. It is easy to get caught up in the end goal of training, but experts note little victories are equally important. Praising the pet when he or she does something right, even if it is a small thing, will keep the motivation going.
• Finish positively. End all training sessions with something the dog knows so that the session will end on a high note.
If training does not come easily after many weeks of going it alone, pet owners may want to seek the help of a professional dog trainer. Professionals also can be helpful for those pet owners who want to break dogs out of unsavory behaviors, such as leash aggression or excessive barking.
How breed affects dogs’ trainability
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Every dog lover has a different set of criteria for what they look for in a dog. Some make size a priority, preferring a pooch who is small enough to be a constant companion. Others seek a dog that has shorter fur for less grooming upkeep. Still, some people prefer a breed that is known for flashy looks that will turn heads on neighborhood walks.
Trainability is another consideration when researching potential pet companions. Many veterinarians attest that positive reinforcement training is one of the tools to keep a dog happy, healthy and well-behaved. Training also can offset behavioral issues that may make spending time in and out of a home with a dog less enjoyable, thus reducing the chances the pet may be surrendered to a shelter. The American Kennel Club says that each dog breed has a distinct personality, instinctive drive and genetic heritage. These factors can affect trainability.
HIGHLY TRAINABLE DOG BREEDS
According to renowned dog researcher Dr. Stanley Coren, certain breeds are more trainable than others.
• German shepherd: There is a good reason this breed is regularly used for police and military work. The German shepherd is a workhorse and wants to please.
• Border collie: This breed can learn very fast and will be eager to learn more.
• Poodle: Although that curly coat may lead a person to believe this breed is more fluff than brains, quite the opposite is true. Poodles are keen to work and willing to please.
• Collie: Collies are known for their unwavering devotion and loyalty, not to mention trainability.
• Golden retriever and Labrador retriever: Some of the most popular family dogs around, these retrievers tend to be gentle, friendly, trainable, and eager to please.
• Rottweiler: This imposing pup is a natural protector that wants a job to do. That makes the Rottie highly trainable. Some dogs, such as hounds, beagles, huskies, and Akitas, are among the most challenging to train, according to experts. Such dogs’ focus may be on sensing prey or doing other things they find fun, and not on a handler. But people should not grow discouraged if they have their hearts set on less-receptive-to-training breeds.
WHAT ABOUT MIXED BREED DOGS?
What can you expect if you have an Akita mixed with a golden retriever? Perhaps aloofness will mix with friendly exuberance and result in a mild-mannered pup. It often is challenging to determine the heritage of a mixed-breed dog with the hopes of gauging its willingness to be trained. “Mutts” tend to have more muted traits. However, if two highly trainable, active breeds comprise the DNA of a mixed-breed dog, that intense desire to work may be a negative in the home environment. Much like other factors regarding mixed-breed dogs, an owner won’t know what he or she is getting until spending time with the dog over time.
Trainability is a factor people consider when picking a dog. Certain breeds may adapt to training more readily than others, but most dogs will learn the skills necessary to live peacefully with their human companions.
6 benefits of spaying and neutering
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After providing a safe home, veterinary care aEach year millions of dogs and cats are euthanized in shelters because of overpopulation. Just a few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, shelters were emptied out as pet adoptions reached all-time highs. Now that offices have reopened and people have returned to work and other activities, pets increasingly are being surrendered to shelters again, once more leading to overtaxed shelters and other facilities.
Overburdened shelters also are made worse by litters of animals born to unsterilized parents. The American Veterinary Medical Association says spaying and neutering are important tools for preventing unplanned or unwanted litters, and reducing pet overpopulation. Most experts agree there is little benefit to leaving pets’ reproductive systems intact. Even family pets can get loose and mate unintentionally. The following are six notable benefits to spaying or neutering a pet.
1. Prevent the conception and birth of unwanted animals.
2. The ASPCA says spaying prevents uterine infections and decreases the incidence of breast tumors, which are malignant or cancerous in about 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats. Spaying a pet before the first heat offers the best measure of protection.
3. Neutering male animals prevents testicular cancer if done before six months of age.
4. Neutered animals are less likely to roam and become nuisances. Female cats can go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. While in heat they will
yowl and urinate frequently. Males will be on the prowl for females and can get into fights. Spaying and neutering reduces these tendencies.
5. Neutering and spaying is a lot less costly than having and caring for a litter. It also prevents medical treatment from being needed in the event a pet gets into a fight over mating.
6. Although the surgery will reduce some undesirable behaviors, it is not a magic fix for all
behavioral problems, including bad habits.
The ASPCA says the traditional age to sterilize dogs is between six and nine months. Healthy puppies as young as eight weeks can undergo a spaying or neutering surgery. For cats, it is generally considered safe for kittens as young as eight weeks old. To avoid the start of urine spraying, neuter or spay a cat before the animal reaches five months of age.
Spaying and neutering is important for animal health and helps to reduce pet overpopulation.
FAQ about pets and microchips
(Metro)
Pet owners generally want to do all they can to safeguard the well-being of their companion animals. This includes taking steps to ensure that pets can be returned safely should they get lost while outdoors. Utilizing collars with identification information on them is one option, but that does not offer peace of mind if the collar comes loose and falls off. However, microchipping is a permanent solution that is ideal for pets.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small device that is injected under the pet’s skin. It is about the size of a grain of rice. Unlike collars or tags that can fall off or become illegible, a microchip always contains the data that has your identification. Here are some common questions about microchips and answers collected from PetLink™, HomeAgain, The Humane Society, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Does the microchip have a battery or charge?
No, a microchip is simply an electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder. It is activated when a scanner sending out radio waves is
passed over the chip, which then transmits the ID number to the scanner. The microchip is known as a transponder. You do not have to worry about replacing batteries or recharging the chip. Typically microchips last for 24 years, well past the average life span of many pets.
Is insertion of the microchip painful?
Veterinarians assert that injecting the microchip is no more painful than a typical vaccination. However, the needle to place the microchip is slightly larger. The procedure can be done during a routine office visit and does not require anesthesia. Some vets will implant the chip during a procedure for spaying or neutering so that the animal will be calm and still under anesthesia.
Who can read the chip?
Virtually all shelters and veterinarians have scanners that can read microchips. Beginning in 2004, the 134 kHz microchip was introduced with specifications developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO). This frequency is usually considered the global standard for pet microchips and the one that most scanners will read.
Where is the microchip placed?
Most dogs and cats are microchipped along the dorsal midline, which is just between the shoulder blades. Horses are injected along the left side of the neck, about an inch below the mane. Birds receive the implant in their breast muscles because they have less mass than other animals. These locations make it easier for scanners to find the chips.
Can a microchip migrate in the body?
Usually your pet’s subcutaneous tissue will bond to the chip within 24 hours, preventing it from moving. There are rare instances when a chip migrates elsewhere in the body.
How can I register my pet?
The microchip is only effective if it is programmed with the pet’s contact information. Microchip registries coordinate with the chip used. You’ll simply make an account and link the chip to your name, phone number and other identifying information. It is important to update this data as needed when you move or get a new phone number.
Microchips, when used in conjunction with collars and ID tags, offer the best protection for pets.
Tips to care for outdoor cats
(Metro)
Pet preferences vary across the world, but dogs and cats are beloved companion animals in many corners of the globe. According to the 2022 Statista Global Consumer Survey, dogs have a good lead over their feline counterparts in the United States, mainland China, the United Kingdom, and Japan. However, in Germany, cats and dogs are kept by a nearly equal number of pet owners.
Even though cats may not be as popular as dogs, they are widely found in homes. They also may be spending time outside of homes. While there are plenty of feral cats, or those that have grown up outdoors with little to no social interaction with humans, even many domesticated cats spend ample time outdoors.
Most veterinarians feel it is safer to keep cats indoors, where they are not exposed to disease or trauma. However, many cats are simply not happy without fresh air. In such instances, here’s how pet parents can care for cats who need some breathing room.
Leash-train the cat
The American Humane Society suggests leash-training cats that want to be outdoors. Much like having a dog on a leash prevents the pet from running off and getting lost or injured, cats who may be a little too independent for their own good can be curtailed with leashes.
Vaccinate and fix the animal
Cats that are exposed to the outdoors are more susceptible to diseases that can be harmful or even fatal. Speak with a vet about which vaccines the cat will require if he or she is going to be spending considerable time outdoors.
Also, while it is recommended for all companion animals to be spayed or neutered, it is especially important for those with access to the outdoors to prevent unwanted mating that can exacerbate overpopulation issues. Plus, animals that are fixed are less likely to roam or fight.
Create a shelter
In addition to providing free access to the home by way of a cat door, outdoor access cats may benefit from a home in the yard. This can protect the cat from weather or other animals. A pet owner can build a shelter or purchase pre-made varieties that resemble a chicken coop. It’s also best to ensure cats have access to fresh water while outside. Regularly inspect the shelter to keep it clean and in good repair.
Consider a “catio”
Some cats will be satisfied with something that lets fresh air in without having to be completely outdoors. A “catio” is an outdoor ledge or enclosure for cats that is covered by grating or mesh, according to Habitat Have. It can be attached to a window or be freestanding in an area of the yard, providing a lounging spot that is outdoors but protected.
Provide identification
Cat caregivers can microchip cats and ensure they are wearing the proper identification. If the cat cannot find its way home, there is a greater chance the animal will be found if identification is present or a chip has been installed.
Although cats are safest indoors, with some precautions, cats can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Outdoor plants toxic to household pets
(Metro)
Pets bring many positive changes to households. Pets can make homes more lively, and the companionship of animals can reduce feelings of loneliness while offering additional health benefits to pet owners.
Individuals who are preparing to adopt or purchase pets need to be mindful that they may need to make changes at home to ensure residences are safe places for pets to reside. Much in the way new parents must assess the environs for potential hazards to babies, pet owners should conduct similar inspections. These safety checks should occur both inside and in the yard if pets will be spending time outdoors. Poisonous plants are a potentially hidden hazard prospective pet owners must address before bringing a new pet home.
People generally do not give much thought to the plants they include in their homes and yards beyond the care instructions and how they can add to the aesthetic appeal. Homeowners may know if a plant likes the sun or shade, but they may not realize its potential for toxicity. That’s because adults in particular are not prone to ingesting the plants in their yard that are inedible, unlike curious pets that may sniff and nibble plants when exploring their environments. For those with dogs and
cats that will spend time outdoors, it’s best to be aware of these potentially toxic plants, courtesy of the ASPCA, Dr. Buzby’s and Garden Design.
• Autumn crocus: There are various types of crocus plants, but the one most toxic to dogs is autumn crocus. The entire plant is toxic, but the highest concentration of toxic agent is found in the bulbs.
• Sago palm: People in warm climates may enjoy the look of palm trees on their properties. Despite its tropical and relaxing appearance, the Sago palm is extremely poisonous if ingested by pets, with the seeds being the most toxic part.
• Lily: Lilies are highly toxic to cats in particular. Even grooming pollen off of their fur or drinking water out of a vase where lilies are kept may cause kidney failure.
• Tulips and hyacinth: These early bloomers are beautiful flowers, but each contains a similar alkaloid toxin that is mild to moderately toxic to pets. Again, the highest concentration is found in the bulbs, which dogs or cats may dig up while exploring.
• Aloe vera: This soothing succulent may be part of an arid climate landscape. Aloe contains saponin, a toxin with foaming properties that can harm pets if ingested and cause
severe dehydration.
• Begonia: A popular outdoor and houseplant, begonia has decorative flowers and attractive leaves. However, the plant can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, particularly the underground tubers.
• Azalea: This flowering shrub produces flowers in many colors, so it’s often present in household landscapes. It’s important to note that azaleas can be toxic to dogs and cats.
• Yew: American, Canadian and Japanese yew may be found around properties. These shrubs produce small red berries with green centers (almost looking like the reverse of a Spanish olive with pimento). Yew is toxic to cats and dogs.
• Dahlia: Dahlia produce flowers in different colors, so they are common in flower beds. However, these plants also are mildly toxic to pets.
Many toxic plants can irritate the gastrointestinal system in pets, potentially resulting in vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. Those who suspect a pet has ingested a poisonous plant should contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or their local veterinarian to learn about how to respond to possible exposure.
