Our dogs become like extended family…and many of us refer to our dogs as our “kids”. Our kids’ safety and health are a top priority. And just like we can use GPS tracking for humans, so too can we use it for our beloved canines.
But where do you begin? Whether you are a new pet owner or have had Fido for many years, a GPS tracker may be a good option for your situation. For pups who like to go on walks (without their owners) or cats who love to wander, a pet GPS is a great option to give pet parents peace of mind.
Our friends at reviews.com are huge animal lovers, so their team was excited to tackle the task of finding out which trackers were the best. They sought out models that had top of the line technology, a long battery life and accurate tracking. And, of course, ease-of-use and an intuitive app. Check out all your options here and drop us a line and let us know what you think.
All dogs love to chew. It helps relieve stress and releases pleasurable endorphins into the body. Some breeds have a worse reputation for chewing than others, notably Jack Russell Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, Golden Retrievers and Labradors. Destructive chewing could be part of your dog’s DNA or genetics, but what training techniques can you implement to prevent this unwanted behavior in the future?
When It’s Alright to Chew
Photo by Ryan Walton on Unsplash
Puppies explore the world through their mouths. And when they begin teething, chewing can really help to alleviate the symptoms. This can go on for six months, so it’s best to comfort them and provide something cold they can put in their mouths to soothe the pain. Ice cubes work well or putting a favorite rubber toy in the freezer. Start training your puppy on what’s acceptable and not acceptable to chew, focus on encouragement and rewards for chewing their own toys.
As they get older, their desire to chew will continue but it’s important you channel it in the right way and recognize any behavioral triggers. Dogs will rarely chew to annoy you, but by understanding any possible causes of destructive chewing you can put appropriate measures in place and tailor training methods accordingly.
Why Do Dogs Chew?
Older dogs may chew because they are bored or want attention.
They might chew to relieve nervousness or reduce any feelings of fear.
Separation anxiety is another cause of destructive chewing. Your dog might become stressed anytime they’re left alone.Medical reasons. Chewing can be a result of an unbalanced diet, too little calcium or gastrointestinal issues.
Preventing Destructive Chewing
Whatever the reason for destructive chewing, there are strategies you can put in place to help. First, it’s important to “dog-proof” your house. Tidy things away that you don’t want your dog to pick up and consider leaving your dog in a crate or utility room when you’re out of the house.
Photo by Anita Peeples on Unsplash
Everyone knows a tired dog is a happy dog. By providing enough physical exercise and mental stimulation, you can help release any excess energy and avoid issues with boredom. Hiding treats, indoor play and plenty of interaction will all tire your dog out.
Training your dog to chew their own toys is essential. This review of which toys work best to stop unwanted chewing could help. There is a variety to choose from and it helps to rotate them to maintain your dog’s interest. Kongs, Nylabones and Dental Sticks are all worth consideration. You can also discourage any destructive chewing on specific items by spraying them with unpleasant scents. To help prevent your dog from becoming “Chewzilla” consider some of these tips on how to prevent your dog from destroying woodwork.
Separation Anxiety
If you think your dog is experiencing separation anxiety, start introducing training techniques early to encourage independence and calmness. Establishing yourself as the leader and getting your dog to respond to commands will all help increase their confidence. It’s important to remember to avoid scolding or yelling at your dog if they do destroy something. Unless its immediate discipline, they won’t know why they are being shouted at.
By taking these preventative measures, understanding your dog’s behavior and encouraging appropriate chewing through positive training and reinforcement, you should get the results you want and avoid any destructive chewing in the future.
Want to talk to a professional about further training for your beloved Fido? Mark “Dogman” Castillero has trained over 10,000 dogs in his 40-year career. He and his team at Pro-Train Innovative are ready to help.
Specially-Trained emotional support animals can make all the difference in the life of a disabled person.
For individuals who are living with a disability, having a pet can be a huge help. Some are specially-trained emotional support animals, while others are simply loving pets that provide comfort and company to those who need it most. Some pets can be trained to complete physical tasks that are too difficult for their human companions, such as opening doors or carrying shopping baskets.
Whatever your needs are, there’s sure to be a pet for you. It’s important to make sure your pet’s needs are met as well, however, by giving him lots of attention and care. This begins the moment you bring him home, meaning you’ll need a good plan for keeping him happy and healthy. Bonding time is especially important for support animals in order to keep a connection that will last a lifetime.
Here are a few of the best tips on how you and your support animal can take care of one another. Guest blogger Ashley Taylor of disabledparents.org shares some great information here.
Maverick and his owner, who is deaf, have bonded well! Another Pro-Train Success Story.
Form the Bond
As soon as you bring your pet home, the bonding should begin. Clear your schedule as much as possible so you can play with your new pet and let him assimilate to his new home. Allow him to explore his surroundings and, if possible, only have immediate family there when he arrives. Keep things calm and conversational, and let him meet everyone at his own pace. This will set the tone for your relationship and will give him a sense of trust, which is imperative when it comes to support animals.
Stay Social
Pets can help you stay social and active, which is important for many individuals who are living with a disability. You might visit a local dog park for a walk after dinner, or join local events that include pets. Emotional support animals can be extremely beneficial when it comes to loneliness, but it’s helpful to get out and spend time with other people as well. Talk to your doctor about which exercises are best for your needs and which ones you should stay away from so that you and your pet will stay safe, especially during colder months or when the weather is inclement.
Just like a baby or toddler needs extra attention, so too do our pets upon arriving at our home. Make sure its safe your new Fur Baby.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Many animals will explore their new home eagerly, so it’s important to make sure each area is safe and free of trip-hazards, toxic plants or foods such as chocolate, and exposed wires or cords that might look like fun chew toys. Take a look at the outside of your home as well, especially if your pet will be spending a lot of time there. The yard should ideally be fenced in to keep him safe, and should be free of any rocks or small items that could damage his paws. For more tips on how to get started, click here.
Traveling with Your Dog
Traveling long distance can be challenging. There is a lot of prep work involved and it’s important for you to research which mode of transportation is the best suited for you and your animal. Did you know that train travel is fast becoming the most rewarding way to travel with your pet? Give this great thought for your next long distance trip! It may be the best decision, other than proper training, that you make!
Pro-Train has trained thousands of service and assistance dogs.
Proper Training
All new pets, like children, need a bit of guidance so they can understand the rules. Even those that have been specially trained as emotional support animals may need to learn how things will work in your home. Go over basic commands to ensure he knows how to sit, heel, and stay, and make sure your family members understand the rules as well. Keeping everyone on the same page will ensure that your pet doesn’t become confused.
If you need help with service dog training, Pro-Train is a top pick for people with disabilities. Founder and owner Mark Castillero has a phenomenal staff who he has mentored and trained. Whatever the disability, your dog will be trained with your specific needs to your specific situation. Lifetime guaranteed.
Having a pet can make a world of difference for an individual with a disability, but it’s necessary to choose the right animal for your needs. Whether you’re a dog person or someone who loves cats, making sure you are compatible with your pet is essential. After that, it’s just a matter of loving and being loved.
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There is no dog too skittish, too aggressive, or too old.
Pro-Train certified dog trainers specialize in all aspects of dog training,dog obedience, and Private Dog Training including:
Dog Training
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There are no bad dogs, just dogs who need Pro-Train!
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What Areas Do We Service In Escondido?
We’re proud to be North County ‘s premier dog training school and service all areas in the city of La Jolla including: Alpine, Bonita, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Bostonia, Boulevard, Camp Pendleton, Campo, Cardiff, Cardiff by the Sea, Carlsbad, North County, Coronado, Crest, Del Mar, Descanso, Dulzura, North County, Rancho Bernardo, San Diego, Fallbrook, Guatay, Imperial Beach, Jacumba, Jamul, Julian, San Diego, La Mesa, Lakeside, Lemon Grove, Leucadia, Lincoln Acres, Mount Laguna, National City, Nestor, Ocean Beach, North County, Olivenhain, Pacific Beach, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Paradise Hills, Pauma Valley, Pine Valley, Potrero, Poway, Rainbow, Ramona, Ranchita, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa FE, North County (County Seat), North County State University, San Luis Rey, Rancho Bernardo, San Ysidro, Santa Ysabel, Santee, Solana Beach, Spring Valley, Tecate, North County, Valley Center, Vista, and Warner Springs.
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The beauty of adopting is the options you have. Sometimes a puppy is the right choice, but there are plenty of adult dogs who are potty trained and looking for loving homes.
Adopting a dog from a local shelter can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. We encourage you to be prepared for all that your new fur baby will need upon coming home. Check out this list of the Top 10 items to secure after bringing your new family member home.
Ten Things to Buy After Adopting a Dog
There are more than ten, but these items will get you going initially. You can add on as you both get used to each other.
Dog food
Food and drinking bowls
Dog Bed
Dog collar, ID tags, and leash
Combs, brushes, shampoos, sponges, nail clippers and other grooming tools
Poop scoops and bags
Exercise Pen
Dog toys
Dog chews and treats
First-aid kit
Dog Food
Dogs need nutritious food and though meat does form a large part of their diet, they need to get nutrients from non-meat foods too. Grains, veggies, and fruits give them the necessary minerals, vitamins, and fiber, and good dog foods should contain those too. The needs of different dogs are different.
Adopting a shelter dog is truly a life-changing experience, for you and the canine. Enter this relationship wisely.
Food and Drinking Bowls
Food and water bowls are important. You can see how furiously they wag their tail when they smell food or hear cans being opened. Getting the right food and water bowl for your pet ensures that it eats at the right pace without any postural and joint problems.
Dog Beds
Since dogs spend a large part of their time sleeping, it’s essential that dog beds are comfortable, durable and relaxing. Your pets should be able to stretch or curl up whenever they feel like it. The size and shape of the beds also matter as they determine the comfort level.
Can’t adopt? Your local shelter is always looking for donations and volunteers.
Dog Collar, ID tags, and Leash
By nature, dogs are playful- when you walk your dog, you need to keep it on a leash so that it doesn’t take off at top speed whenever something catches its fancy. Dog collars help to keep your pet safe and ID tags ensure that lost dogs are returned to the owner.
Dog Grooming Tools
All dogs need to be groomed so that their coats remain healthy and allergies are kept at bay. Nails need to be trimmed, coats need to be brushed to prevent tangles and excessive shedding of hair. Do remember that different breeds have different grooming needs and thus different dog grooming tools.
Poop Scoops and Bags
If you own a dog then you need to arm yourself with poop scoops and bags to get rid of dog poop hygienically. It makes the act of cleaning up during walks or playtime, simpler and less smelly. It may not be fun but it’s a clean way out of a sticky situation.
Exercise Pen
Dogs need to exercise and be free to move about. An exercise pen allows them to stretch their legs if they so want and at the same time remain confined so that you can keep an eye on them. As the pens are extremely portable, they suit pet owners very well.
Dog Toys
If you want to see your pet stay energetic, you need to get them dog toys that stimulate them into activity. They have fun, stay entertained and are kept happy and busy through the day. After all, it can’t be fun to be confined to a pen or the house throughout the day, every day.
Dog Chews and Treats
Dogs love to chew and if they are teething, the chewing is more aggressive. Dog chews and treats help keep their teeth clean, their breath fresh and jaws, strong. The right chews and treats retard the formation of plaque and keep dogs satisfied and content.
First-Aid-Kit
If you own a pet, then you should be prepared for accidents and injuries. That’s why having a first-aid-kit is a no-brainer. Apart from first-aid pet supplies such as absorbent pads, gauze, thermometer, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, swabs and more, you need to have the phone number of your vet and emergency clinics. The kits come pre-assembled but you can make your own by choosing what you want.
In conclusion, adopting a dog is only half the story- the other half is making it feel at home in its new environment. That can happen only when you ensure that your pet has all it needs to keep it happy and comfortable.
