Written and shared by Beth Friedman of Canine Companion Consulting
Why do we use leashes? Mainly, it is because they are required by law in most places and are used for safety. Often the leash is also used for control. We like to think of the leash as like a seat belt, used for safety and not for control. You hope you won’t need it but it is there to protect you and your dog if you do need it. If we teach our canine companions how to walk on a loose leash and to respond to our voice, rather than a tug on the leash, the leash becomes just a safety device. At first, some people have difficulty seeing themselves and their dog getting from where they are now, to having a loose leash and working more as a team with their dog. With some patience and training change does happen. A wonderful illustration of this concept is described in the graphic below by Lilly Chin. If we can teach a whale to pee in a cup, a sea otter to go to his crate, a rhino to smile for teeth-brushing; without force or control, then we should also be able to teach a dog to walk politely on a loose leash without force or punishment. By the way, thinking about leashes, if you like to read and would like to better understand canine behavior, The Other End of the Leash by Patricia McConnell is great book that is very informative and an easy read. Leash Reactive Dogs Leash Reactivity is one of the most common concerns we get called about. When I say leash reactivity, I am defining it as a dog that barks and lunges while on leash. There are three things you can do to prevent this, as well as help your canine companion do better on a walk. First, and most importantly, teach your dog to walk on a loose leash. This teamwork is so crucial to helping your dog not have bad feelings on a walk. Loose leash walking, to us, isn’t about control but is about working together. Second, sniffing is so important to dogs for enrichment so let them sniff and perhaps even direct the walk, at times. Third, use the right gear for walking; The tools matter. Don’t use tools that will cause pain such as a prong, shock, or choke collar as the fallout may increase the behaviors you are trying to extinguish. A leash with some length and a good harness are the ideal tools for good, loose leash walking. These three tips won’t help every dog in every situation but they will go a long way to having a peaceful walk for most dogs. If you need more assistance in this area, we have an on- demand webinar or are available to conduct private sessions to help you and your dog get on the right track
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The use of cannabis in animals, especially in pets like dogs, is a topic that requires caution and
consideration. Cannabis contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is a psychoactive compound, and it can have different effects on animals than on humans. In general, it's important to note that the ingestion of cannabis can be harmful to pets. Dogs, for example, are known to be sensitive to THC, and ingestion can lead to symptoms like lethargy, incoordination, vomiting, dilated pupils, elevated heart rate, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures. If you suspect that your pet has ingested cannabis or shows any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly. Be honest with your veterinarian about what your dog may have ingested, as it helps them provide the appropriate treatment. It is important to keep all cannabis products, including edibles, out of reach of pets. Additionally, be cautious about exposing pets to secondhand smoke as well. Research on the use of cannabis and CBD in animals is ongoing, and some pet owners may explore CBD products that are specifically formulated for pets. However, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian before giving any cannabis-related products to your pets to ensure their safety and well-being. Pet sitting isn't just a service; it's an enriching experience that connects humans with their furry companions. Whether it's a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a well-deserved vacation, pet sitting provides a loving and reliable alternative to traditional boarding facilities. 1. The Trusted Companion: Pet sitting goes beyond the basic responsibilities of feeding and walking. It's about being a trusted companion for your pets. Establishing a bond with pets is essential for their well-being and helps ease any anxiety they might feel in their owner's absence. As a pet sitter, creating a comfortable and secure environment is key to fostering this trust. 2. Tailored Care for Every Pet: One of the beauties of pet sitting is the personalized care each animal receives. Whether you're tending to a playful pup, a regal cat, or a chirpy bird, understanding each pet's unique needs and quirks is crucial. From administering medication to indulging in a favorite playtime activity, the level of attention and care provided is tailored to the individual pet. 3. Home Sweet Home: Unlike traditional boarding facilities, pet sitting often takes place in the pet's own home. This not only reduces stress for the pet but also provides added security for the homeowner. The familiar sights, smells, and routines help pets feel at ease, minimizing the disruption caused by their owner's absence. 4. The Professional Pet Sitter: Pet sitting isn't just for animal lovers; it's a profession that requires dedication, responsibility, and a genuine passion for the well-being of animals. Professional pet sitters undergo training to handle various situations, from administering first aid to recognizing signs of distress. Their commitment ensures that pet owners can relax knowing their pets are in capable hands. 5. Building Connections: Beyond the animals, pet sitting allows for the creation of meaningful connections with both pets and their owners. As a pet sitter, you become part of a larger community of people who prioritize the happiness and health of their furry family members. Sharing updates, photos, and anecdotes with pet owners helps foster a sense of trust and camaraderie. Pet sitting for us at Hug A Love is more than just a service; it's a fulfilling and rewarding adventure that bridges the gap between pet owners and their beloved companions. The joy of building trust, providing personalized care, and creating lasting connections makes our pet sitting a truly paws-itive experience for all involved. Whether you're a pet owner seeking reliable care or considering a career in pet sitting, the world of furry friendships awaits you.
Embracing Automation for Time-Saving Convenience In today's fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, pet owners are increasingly turning to automated solutions to streamline their pet care routines. From automatic feeders and fountains to self-cleaning litter boxes, these innovative devices offer the promise of more time and less hassle. However, it's crucial to understand that while automation can significantly ease the burden of pet care, these devices still require maintenance to ensure the well-being of your furry friends. Even though automated feeders are a nice convenience for our busy schedules. They still need to be maintained and refilled. Regular cleaning needs to happen as the feeders can start to build up a lot of bacteria. Another importance is portion control and scheduled feeding for pets’ health. Not to mention having the feeders checked regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Automated water fountains are also great to have. Having water readily available, encourages proper hydration. The downfall is the potential health risks associated with stagnant water bowls. So, most definitely it is necessary to change the water filters and replace water regularly to maintain water quality. As a cat owner, wouldn’t it be a dream to have a self-cleaning litter box? I would say this is probably the worst part of being a cat owner, is having to clean the litter box. It is very important though to your cat’s health and well-being to have a clean litter box. Maintaining the odor is essential. Investing in a self-cleaning litter box will save the dreaded job of doing the cleanup and time-saving. Although, you should not rely on the self-cleaner 100 percent. With today’s technology, we have the opportunity to be at work or away from home and be able to check on our pets. Having a pet camera gives you peace of mind to do remote monitoring to see what your pet is up to. But very important to check camera functionality, Wi-Fi connectivity, clean lenses for clear visuals, and replace batteries. Not to mention how important it is still to have physical contact with a pet sitter if away for long periods. Our felines are independent animals but still can cause trouble and require pet sitters and owners for caretaking. There is now freedom and responsibility for automated pet doors and GPS trackers for outdoor activities. You should need to consider the safety and potential risks of having these and making sure you are doing regular monitoring and maintenance to address any malfunctions or issues. While automated pet care devices undoubtedly offer a valuable reprieve for busy pet owners, it's crucial to recognize that they are not entirely maintenance-free. Responsible ownership involves regular checks, cleanings, and upkeep of these devices to ensure they function correctly and contribute positively to your pet's well-being. By embracing automation with a commitment to maintenance, pet owners can strike a balance between time-saving convenience and attentive care for their beloved companions. It's not just humans who are gearing up for New Year's celebrations. Feline enthusiasts around the globe have designated a special day to honor our furry friends – Happy Mew Year for Cats Day! This unique celebration puts the spotlight on the delightful companionship that cats bring into our lives. So, let's dive into the festivities and explore how to make this day a purr-fectly memorable for our whiskered companions. 1. Festive Decorations for the Feline Kingdom: Transform your home into a feline paradise with cat-friendly decorations. Think catnip-filled balloons, cozy blankets, and a dazzling array of interactive toys. Create a comfortable and safe space where your cat can join the festivities or relax in solitude. 2. Catnip Extravaganza: Catnip is the life of the party for our furry friends. Arrange a catnip-themed play area with toys infused with this magical herb. Watch as your cat revels in the joy of catnip-induced playfulness. Remember to capture those adorable moments on camera for a delightful keepsake. 3. Gourmet Delights for Discerning Palates: Treat your feline royalty to a special feast. Explore gourmet cat treats and perhaps even prepare a homemade cat-friendly delicacy. Pay attention to your cat's favorite flavors and textures to ensure a gastronomic delight. Don't forget to have a few treats for yourself – after all, it's a celebration for everyone! 4. Interactive Playtime: Set aside quality playtime with your cat. Whether it's engaging in a game of chase, tossing around a feathered wand, or introducing a new puzzle toy, interactive play is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond with your feline friend. Plus, it keeps them mentally stimulated and physically active. 5. Cozy Movie Night: Create a cozy movie night setup for you and your cat. Choose cat-friendly videos or documentaries that showcase the beauty and charm of cats. Share some snuggles and treats while enjoying a relaxing evening in each other's company. 6. Reflect and Set Intentions: Take a moment to reflect on the past year with your feline companion by your side. Share your resolutions and intentions for the upcoming year, and maybe even set a few for your cat – perhaps more playtime or new toys to explore. It's a delightful way to bond and communicate with your feline friend. Happy Mew Year for Cats Day is a wonderful occasion to express gratitude for the joy and companionship our feline friends bring into our lives. Whether you're engaging in playful activities, sharing a special meal, or simply basking in each other's company, make this day a celebration of the unique bond between humans and their purr-fect companions. Cheers to a year filled with love, laughter, and endless purrs! |
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