Showing posts with label dog news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog news. Show all posts

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Dog Food Recall - FDA Health Alert


January 14, 2010 - FDA Health Alert for Merrick Beef Filet Squares Dog Treats Packaged and Distributed by Merrick Pet Care
Products may be contaminated with Salmonella

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares for dogs distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of “Best By 111911” because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The attention to dog health care is on the rise. As we look at our own health and fitness the trend is towards prevention and staying healthy with exercise and diet rather than seeking treatment after the damage has been done.

You are what you eat is true for dogs too. Not all premium commercial dog food marketed as organic are in fact what the packaging lets us imagine. It up to dog owners to do our due diligence in researching what the food we choose to feed our dogs is made up of.

Do You Really Know What’s In Your Pets Food?

A healthy diet for your dog should include protein and carbohydrates. Its important to know where those components come from type of ingredient to the way it is processed.

Watch this video Do You Really Know What’s In Your Pets Food for more information.

How would you feel physically if you ate the same exact thing every day without access to any whole vegetables, fruits or meat?

A healthy diet for your dog can include these foods: chicken, beef, fish, eggs, broccoli, peas, carrots and squash.  Don’t be afraid to give your dog some “real” food along with a kibble diet. Adding these unprocessed foods to your dog’s healthy dog food diet provides antioxidants and are all great thing for canine immune systems. There are certain whole foods that are not suitable for your dog but adding a little meat or vegetables to your dog’s diet will enhance the nutrition many fold compared to only feeding dry kibble.

Fitness and nutrition bring more wag to you and the dog. Go out and have some fun at a dog friendly event, and eat whole foods. You and your dog. Wag.

©Jt Clough and K9 Coach, Inc. 2010 www.SitK9Sit.com   DogTrainingofSanDiego.com

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Thursday, January 7, 2010

Training Companions: Running with Dogs

Studies show that training with a companion, training partner, buddy... whatever you want to call it increases your chances of sticking with an exercise program more than two fold.  So why not pick a training companion you know you can count on?  Your dog is always ready to go, on your schedule and happy to be your best supporter every single day.

That being said there are a few considerations to take into account when choosing your dog as your running partner.

As with you, make sure that your dog is healthy and physically able to run with you.  A check at the vet is recommended.  Holistic veterinarians are always on the side of health versus medication and exercise is an area they know well.

Puppies and dogs less than a year old are still forming bones and ligaments so make sure to refrain from a full training regime.  Don’t confuse that statement with get no exercise for your young dog.  This can also turn out to be bad for development and behavioral problems.  Just don’t plan on making the puppy a running partner until after reaching a year old.

There are dogs better built for running than others.  The list is long and many times the combined traits of a mixed breed dog are ideal for running.  A few breeds that are most excellent as running partners are:

Labrador Retriever
Australian Shepherd
Portuguese Water Dog
Weimaraner
Vizsla
German Short Haired Pointer
Golden Retriever
Standard Poodle
Labradoodles
German Shepherd Dog
Belgian Malinois
Rhodesian Ridgeback

You can find many more breeds and information about dogs that make great running partners at www.DogBreedInfo.com

Acclimation is key to gaining fitness and avoiding injury.  Make sure to start your dog off like you would start yourself in a new program.  Start with shorter runs and gradually increase your distance.

More is not always better, especially in the beginning.  Long time runners coming back to the game sometimes go with the 1 mile, 2 mile, 10 mile program.  If your dog is new to running “muscle memory” is simply not there.  Do the gradual build up and you’ll have a running partner in time that will always be willing to go the distance and be completely healthy doing it.

Trails are a better option to run long term for you and the dog.  Pavement can be very jarring and the joints and ligaments do much better with the give of trials and soft surfaces.  Check your dog’s paws frequently especially early on in a new training program for cuts, scrapes, or cracks and make sure to keep the nails trimmed.  Dog boots are a great option if you are acclimating your dog to new terrain.

Use common sense regarding time of day you take your dog running.  During warm weather the morning or late evening is best.  Cold weather on the other hand may require that you let the day warm up a bit before hitting the daily running route.  For those dogs that don’t have a lot of extra fur or aren’t acclimated to the cold, providing a dog coat has become a very stylish option to keep your dog warm.
Upscale Dog Supplies

Hydration is a huge factor for you and your dog.  To feel good hydration is a must.  Dogs sweat differently than we do, with moisture leaving their bodies through their nose, tongue and paw pads. Ignoring the signs of dehydration early on is easy since the physical signs of sweating are absent.  Make sure to bring water for you and the dog.

No matter how much you train or exercise if your nutrition is bad you still are dealing with health issues.  Make sure to feed your dog a holistic balanced dog food.  The type of food and the amount are as important as a consistent exercise program.

For more dog running tips and canine cross training programs subscribe to Dog Blog Web Fitness Training below.
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©Jt Clough and K9 Coach, Inc. 2010   www.SitK9Sit.com   www.GoTrainYourDog.com

Friday, December 18, 2009

Mixed Breed Dog? How To Find Out What Breeds Make Up Your Dog


Mixed breed dogs are cool. Shelter dogs and rescues dogs are a combination of more than one breed or many breeds, though pure breed shelter dogs are on the rise as well. Many times we wonder what breeds our dog is made up of out of love and out of curiosity.

As dog owners we tend to adore our dogs and the question comes up. “I wonder what kind of dog you are?” Curiosity is known for killing the cat but when it comes to knowing what breed your dog is the answers can help with many aspects of your dog’s life.

Dog breeds come with a variety of traits and knowing what those are can aid in training, especially if you have a dog that is showing signs of behavior problems. Diet and exercise needs are different according to breed and knowing the facts can aid in a prolonged dog life. Dog health and fitness varies and can be breed specific. Knowing the breed facts is a huge advantage in your relationship with the happiest friend and confident most people have.

In the recent past it’s been an extensive vet lab procedure to find this information out, but as our technology continues to evolve in the pet care industry, there is now a DNA Identification test available at a very low cost, sent right to your home. You don’t have to load the dog up and find yourself in for way more than you bargained for at an expensive doggie doctor appointment.

If you’ve been wondering the breeds your beloved dog is made up of order your own DNA Breed Identification Test Kit. The Canine DNA testing is easy and safe for your pet, and can be done at home. Simply swab the cheek of your dog with the enclosed foam collection device. Then just send the Dog DNA test ID card, along with the customer information card in the enclosed prepaid envelope to BioPet Vet Lab.

Makes a great holiday gift for dog lovers with a mixed breed dog or for those who just want to know more about their beloved family member, the dog!

Click to order your DNA Identification Test Kit

Online Dog Heath & Fitness

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©Jt Clough and K9 Coach, Inc. 2009 www.SitK9Sit.com www.GoTrainYourDog.com

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Dog Food: The Good, The Bad, and The Easy


How do you think your body would do if you ate the same exact food for every single meal of your entire life? Probably miss out on a few things on the nutritional end as well as get a bit bored and look for something else to chew on, right?

Dogs don't get that choice and usually don't complain but it can show up in their long term health. The old adage "you are what you eat" applies here as well.

Not all dog food is the same. Kibble is a great staple given its a quality dog food but adding some regular real food can improve your dogs health over the long term. After all the current worlds oldest dog’s owners attribute his long life to giving him a bit of real food every day!

Read Dog Food: You Are What You Eat for some easy tips on how to improve your dog’s diet with some very simple additions that you already have in the kitchen.

©Jt Clough and K9 Coach 2009

For more exercise, health, nutrition and training programs: Go Train Your Dog

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Great Dog Bowls

Friday, October 30, 2009

Halloween Dog Safety - Things You CAN Do With Your Dog


Dog events are becoming more readily available and Halloween is a great time to go out and have some fun with your dog. Check out the San Diego Dog Friendly Events Calendar for things you can do with your dog on this very fun holiday.

There are safety factors for you and the dog on this holiday but don't let it keep you from all the fun you can have. Click on the link to find out safety issues you may not know about your dog and Halloween, and check out the things you CAN do with your dog!
Halloween Dog Safety

The night before Halloween is a great time to carve a pumpkin. Download these free pumpkin carving stencils of your favorite dog breed!

Pumpkin Carving Stencils - Dog Designs

Now go have some fun with your dog....


Wishing you could participate in all the fun dog activities but your dog's a little out of control...
No problem....

San Diego Dog Training Camps - Exclusive camps for your dog to get fit, get trained, and be the dog to go have some fun.

San Diego Dog Private Lessons - Private coaching for you and your dog, learn dog behavior, how to get your dog to do what you want, how to get fit and have fun with your dog.

Online Dog Training Programs - This is for anyone with a dog, dog training with a private trainer in the comfort of your own computer hours, dog activities, fitness programs and more.

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Thursday, October 29, 2009

Dog Separation Anxiety? Or is it Us?


Severe cases of dog separation anxiety honestly are not that common. Take it from a professional dog trainer who gets called for “dog problems” every day. Not to say it doesn’t happen but many times this behavior is mind and is being perpetuated without us even realizing why. And the good news is you can change some simple habits and have life be better for you and the dog.

Read this article:
Separation Anxiety: Is it You or The Dog?

In many cases the truth of the matter is as people we don’t understand how dogs think and learn. With a little diligence, research and possibly the help of a professional trainer the concept of pictures becomes very clear to everyone.

For more information or help with private dog training and people coaching: K9 Coach
Elevated Dog Feeders


Twitter.com/GoTrainYourDog

©Jt Clough & K9 Coach 2009

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Finding a Lost Dog or Pet

Unique Dog Beds



The worst feeling imaginable by dog or pet owners would be not being able to find your beloved best friend, confidant, and loyal partner. Accidents do happen unfortunately and the number of people that can relate with something as awful as losing their dog, cat or other pet is more staggering than one would think.

People tend to go a little crazy in the initial reaction and the search for a lost dog or pet turns to chaos. It is of utmost importance that the search start immediately of course. Just try and be a somewhat organized about it and save yourself from wasted time.

Make sure your dog or pet has tags always. This will help with the search greatly as people do tend to want to help any lost dog or cat. When tags clearly identify your pet the chances of return go way up.

Pets 911 has created a really helpful website to assist with lost animals. With the help of the World Wide Web getting word out is easier than ever. The lost and found link is very easy to use and you can list a lost pet or submit a found stray.

Check out the Pets 911 website and bookmark the list lost and found area.

Keep a list of important contact numbers and emergency website information available always to refer to; In times of distress its hard to think. Have it available for yourself, your family, any one who takes care of your home, and especially anyone taking care of your pet.

Good Things To Have On Your Pet Emergency List


  • Your vets phone number and address

  • A 24 hour pet emergency vet clinic

  • Local Humane Societies

  • You Pets registered id tag/microchip numbers

  • Pet Poison Help Line (24 hour service 800-213-6680

  • Your address (for pet sitters, house sitters, etc.)



Enjoy the unconditional moments of pure acceptance your dog or pet gives you and remember you are training yourself and your pet all the time. It’s just a matter of what you are practicing and encouraging!

Wag!

©Jt Clough and K9 Coach 2009
Twitter.com/GoTrainYourDog

Friday, October 23, 2009

Shopping at Anthropology with Your Dog: Halloween Parties



Get out and have some fun with your dog in San Diego this weekend. A well trained dog is one that gets to go everywhere. Just like people, if you don't expose new experiences often it's not easy to handle. Every moment in a dogs life is a training moment.

Go shop with your dog at Antropology Carlsbad and enter your dog in the Halloween costume contest. Click on the link below for details.

Shopping at Anthropology with your dog: Halloween parties



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Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Dog Training For Urban Living: Are Tennis Balls Good For Your Dog?


Find out how one of the most inexpensive dog toys can or can't be safe for your dog. Active dogs are happy dogs... usually true of people as well. Go ahead, wag more and you can end up with a well trained dog too.

Dog Training For Urban Living: Are Tennis Balls Good For Your Dog?

San Diego Dog Friendly Events


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Monday, October 19, 2009

Tribute to Baxter the World’s Oldest Hospice Therapy Dog

Baxter was the world’s oldest therapy dog at 19 years and 6 months and brought more to life than one can even touch on describing in a simple story. He passed away on October 16, 2009 and the joy that his life brought to hospice patience in San Diego, CA will live on forever in this life and the next for so many.

Baxter showed the world the beauty of therapy dog work up until the very last days of his life. The giving of life and love will live on forever.

Read his Tribute & watch his video here: Tribute to Baxter the World's Oldest Therapy Dog

San Diego Dog Friendly Events

San Diego Exclusive Dog Training Camps


Dog Human Private Coaching


Online Dog Training Programs

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Dog for the Health of It


It now a proven fact. Dogs can help us with our health. Both mental and physical!

Dog for the health of it

Reality training and exercise programs for you and your dog could be the best thing you do for yourself this year. So go ahead, get a jump on the "New Year's Resolution" a couple of months early. Make it a habit now and life will be as you have wanted it to be this coming holiday season.

Enjoy your family, your dog, your friends, your life.

San Diego Dog Friendly Events


Dog Training Exclusive San Diego Camps


Private Dog Human Lessons


Online Dog Training Programs

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Building the Extraordinary Bond with Your Dog

Oh My Dog Supplies

Building the extraordinary bond with your dog

Unconditional love. We all want it. We all hope for it. It comes with the territory when you spend time with a dog.

Easy ways to make it even better. Plus some out of the ordinary things to do with your dog, including the Pup Crawl. Don't miss it!

Building the extraordinary bond with your dog



Exclusive San Diego Dog Training Camps

Private Dog & People Coaching
Online Dog Training Program

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Surf City Surf Dog - CA Dog Friendly Events


Surf city surf dog

As a dog trainer here in San Diego my belief is that every moment you are with your dog is a training opportunity. Just like ourselves, we are practicing the way we live our lives every moment of every day. So, take your dog and go and practice having fun.

Follow the K9 Coach October Dog Friendly Dog Activities & Events Calendar for more ideas to get out with your best friend... your dog!