Are You Considering Spaying or Neutering Your Pet?

I would like to start off by explaining the difference between spaying and spading. Often time people will say, “I’m going to get my dog spaded”. A spade is a tool designed primarily for the purpose of digging or removing earth. The correct word is Spaying.

A female dog is spayed, and a male dog neutered (castrated). This is the only way to be sure your dog doesn't produce unwanted puppies. In most cases, it is considered safe to alter dogs as early as eight weeks of age.

Spaying involves the removal of both the uterus and the ovaries. Castration refers to the removal of a male dog's testicles. The term neutering is a general term to describe either spaying or castration.

Some questions that you may have:

Question: Isn’t it unnatural to deprive my pet of a sex life?
Answer: No. Dogs and cats have sex strictly to satisfy hormone-induced instincts, not for pleasure.

Question: What is actually done in a spay or neuter procedure?
Answer: A spay surgery (also called an ovariohysterectomy) is performed on females. While performed routinely, an ovariohysterectomy is a major surgery in which the reproductive tract including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are removed. Blood work may be performed to make sure the pet is healthy enough for anesthesia and surgery.

Neutering refers to the castration of a male animal. It is a surgical procedure in which both testicles are removed. Neutering requires considerably less time and equipment than a spay surgery. In both cases, the animal is given general anesthesia so that it cannot feel anything.

Advantages of Spaying or Neutering:

1. Altered pets are less likely to make inappropriate sexual approaches toward people or objects.

2. They are less likely to roam and are less likely to be aggressive. This helps to prevent pets from becoming lost or stolen, being hit by cars, or contracting a contagious disease through fighting with other animals.

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Orphaned Fawns Survive With Love Of Gentle German Shepherd

When it comes to helping furry friends in need, this Shepherd has it covered. Sarge takes any opportunity to comfort an orphaned animal in need, and absolutely shines in the role!

Sarge’s fur mom, Cheryl, helps to rehabilitate local wildlife in her area that find themselves in desperate situations. She welcomes them into her home to give them the safety and comfort they need to enter the wild again, and Sarge is by her side each step of the way.

To read more on this story, click here: Orphaned Fawns Survive With Love Of Gentle German Shepherd

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How Did the Netherlands Manage to Become the First Country to have no Stray Dogs?

The World Health Organisation estimates there are around 200 million stray dogs worldwide. Impressively, the Netherlands is not contributing to this statistic. It has become the first country in the world without any stray dogs! 

Dutch people love their pets. Puppies are whisked around the city in bike baskets, most cafes and restaurants are dog-friendly, and small pets can ride on public transport for a reduced price. Once, I even looked after a dog that had different flavoured meals for each night of the week (unreal, I know…). But all this dog-loving evidently pays off!

To read more on this story, click here: How Did the Netherlands Manage to Become the First Country to have no Stray Dogs?

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A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Pets

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Traveling with a pet, especially for the first time, is a daunting and stressful task — for both you as well as your furry companion. (That’s why we typically suggest only traveling with your pet when necessary.)

Of course, some animals don’t mind the jet-set life and make great travel buddies. Just like humans, each pet is a unique individual that adapts to the world differently. Whether it’s your pet’s first flight or they’re a seasoned, four-legged world traveler, these tips will help guarantee you and your furry friend have a seamless journey.

To read more on this story, click here: A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Pets

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Are Your Pets Protected From Fire/Carbon Monoxide When You Are Away From Home?

I recently heard a story of where a family and their pets died from carbon monoxide poisoning, which has prompted me to write this story.

As you go about your daily life, have you ever thought what would happened if a fire broke out in your home or apartment while you were away? And your beloved pet is home alone. While I am sure most of you reading this have protection for your family and pets…there are some that don’t.

Not everyone can afford or choose to have the paid emergency system linked to the fire department. However, you can install the wireless smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Did you know that some fire departments will come to you home and install them for free? You can call your local fire department to see if they offer this free service.

The advantage of having a smoke/carbon monoxide detector is that maybe a neighbor,or someone passing by will hear it when it goes off, and can get help to your home or apartment.

There are all types of smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, in several price ranges. May I suggest the Pet Emergency Stickers for your doors in the event of an emergency at your home or apartment while you are away, this will notify emergency responders of any pets that you have inside. This will prompt them to look for your pet and know what type of animal they are looking for.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says, Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death.

Remember to change the batteries in your alarms!

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Ways to Thwart an Off-Leash Dog Rushing You and Your Dog

There are countless reasons your dog may not like being rushed by an off-leash dog when he’s on-leash. And senior dogs, those recovering from injuries, and shy pups or fearful dogs may find the attention of off-leash dogs upsetting or overwhelming. Even friendly dogs may not appreciate interacting with another dog in such a socially unequal situation. Leashes can cause a lot of issues.

When you encounter an off-leash dog, keep these things in mind:

Know that it is always okay to protect your dog: Most urban and suburban environments have leash laws, and if your dog is on a leash you are right in keeping your dog safe. You are also completely within your rights to report off-leash dogs to your local authorities.
Evaluate the situation to see if the owner is nearby: If he is, tell him to call his dog. Many people will respond by telling you that their dog is “friendly,” but regardless of their dog’s behavior, if their dog is not under their control and is upsetting you or your dog, it is a problem.

Remember, you can choose whether to let that dog meet your dog.

So, how can you stop a dog that’s charging you? There are several different strategies:

1. Give the loose dog something better to do

Dogs who seem happy and bubbly are often easily stopped by asking them to “sit.” If the dog complies, you can toss a handful of treats to him and make your escape while he’s vacuuming them up. Even if he doesn’t listen, toss a handful of treats towards his face (with the intent to startle, not hurt). When he stops to see what hit him, he’ll realize that there’s food on the ground and devote his attention to eating instead of rushing your dog.

This method has worked really well for a few overly exuberant dogs. It doesn’t stop them from approaching in the future, but it’s the kindest way to give your dog space without the potential fallout that more forceful methods may cause.

2. If that doesn't work, try to startle the loose dog

Step in between your dog and the oncoming dog and use a body block. Square your shoulders and hips, and hold your hand out like a cop stopping traffic while saying “no,” “stop,” or “stay” in a firm, low voice. Alternatively, you could carry an umbrella and open it in the direction of the rushing dog, which will both startle him and provide a physical and visual barrier.

3. Use a spray product if he comes close

Spray Shield is a citronella product manufactured by Premier/PetSafe. It is aversive to most dogs without actually harming them, and can be sprayed directly at an oncoming dog. Some people have also reported success using compressed air in the same way. Spray Shield has the added benefit of working to stop some dog fights, so if things do get out of hand you have a safer way to break up a fight than trying to forcibly remove one of the combatants.

4. Don’t use pepper spray

Not only can pain make some dogs more aggressive, but if the wind gusts the wrong way the spray could end up getting into your or your dog’s face and eyes, leaving you incapacitated with an unknown dog rushing you. Not a good situation to be in! Running away is also generally not advised, as it will just encourage most dogs to chase you. Picking your dog up is usually not a good idea, although in some situations you may decide it’s a calculated risk you’re willing to take. Doing so may put you at greater risk and can intensify the off-leash dog’s interest in your pup.

5. But if you must pick up your dog ...

While cases of truly aggressive dogs intent on bodily harm are rare, they do happen. If your small dog is rushed by an aggressive off-leash dog, you may be able to pick him up and toss him somewhere safer, such as in a nearby garbage can, inside a fenced yard, in the bed of a truck, or on the roof of a car. You can also take advantage of some of these safety options. If you have a bigger dog or if no other options are available, you may need to assess whether your dog would be safer if you dropped the leash so that he can try to get away from the other dog or defend himself.

6. Protect yourself

If the loose dog redirects on you (which is rare, but does happen), protect your head and neck. Spray Shield will stop all but the most aggressive dogs, and generally these dogs are only stopped by physically separating them from their victim.

While no single method will work in every case, the more tools you have in your toolbox, the better able you’ll be to protect your dog. Remember that it is always okay to stand up for your dog.

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Mom-To-Be Captures the Emotional Moment Her Dog Realizes She’s Pregnant: ‘So Amazing and Beautiful’

This TikToker shared the beautiful moment his dog realized his wife was pregnant, and it’s so moving!

Ryan (@maxpotentialdogtraining) is a dog trainer, dog lover, and dad who shares sweet videos of his family on TikTok. When Ryan’s wife Stephanie was pregnant, he shared an incredibly heartwarming video of the moment his dog, Nova, realized Stephanie was expecting.

The emotional video begins with Stephanie sitting on a couch with one dog curled up beside her and her other dog, Nova, standing on her lap. Ryan films as Nova presses her head into Stephanie’s forehead. Stephanie smiles as Nova stares at her.

To read more on this story, click here: Mom-To-Be Captures the Emotional Moment Her Dog Realizes She’s Pregnant: ‘So Amazing and Beautiful’

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Be Careful! That Cute Puppy that You See in the Store or Online...May be Coming from a Puppy Mill!

So you've decided to get a puppy? If you are thinking about getting one from a pet store or on-line, please be careful. That cute puppy most likely came from a puppy mill.

Definition of a puppy mill:

A puppy mill, sometimes known as a puppy farm, is a commercial dog breeding facility that is operated with an emphasis upon profits above animal welfare and is often in substandard conditions regarding the well-being of dogs in their care. Similar types of operations exist for other animals most commonly kept as pets or used as feed for other animals. The term can be applied to operations involving other animals commercially bred for profit, e.g. "kitty mills." There are an estimated 4,000 puppy mills in the U.S. that produce more than half a million puppies a year. Commercial kennels may be licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture which may inspect the kennels routinely.

Please take a look at the video below:



Ready to take the pledge? Click on the button below to take the pledge!

Please share, and remember "Adoption is an Option!"

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10 Of The Most Popular Pets In The US That Aren't Cats Or Dogs

It makes sense to assume that dogs and cats are the most common pets in the United States; after all, they make up a significant number of our favorite animal accounts on Instagram, attracting thousands of followers each day and taking over social media feeds.

While it would seem that something equally as soft and cuddly would come in as third runner-up, the next most popular pet in the US isn’t quite what you’d expect. Below are the most popular pets in America besides cats and dogs.

To read more on this story, click here: 10 Of The Most Popular Pets In The US That Aren't Cats Or Dogs

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Does Your Dog Have Arthritis? – Do You Know the Symptoms?

Can dogs have arthritis?…yes they can. They can develop it just as we humans do.

When I noticed my shih-tzu, Domino starting to limp, I took him to the Vet. He diagnosed him with arthritis and prescribed medication, and also suggested that I get him an orthopedic bed specially made for dogs with arthritis. The bed did not look like a bed at all…it looked more like a piece of foam. When I put him on it, he immediately jumped off. Later that day I saw him checking it out, sniffing and put a paw up on it.

I placed it next to his bed upstairs and left it there. He continued to sleep in his regular bed.  I awakened one morning to find him asleep in the new bed.

Domino had two beds, one downstairs and one upstairs…he was spoiled. I put it next to the bed upstairs.  I started to notice when I was downstairs he would go upstairs. This was unusual because he always stayed downstairs with me. I could not figure out what was so interesting upstairs all of sudden to him. Not thinking about the bed, I decided to go see what he was doing. I would find him sitting or lying down on the bed.

I don’t know if these beds really work since I had no way of asking him if it felt better. I just assumed that it was comfortable for him. I finally moved it downstairs and he continued to sleep on it.

Have you noticed your dog having any of the following symptoms?

• Reluctance to jump, run or climb stairs
• Seeming to have stiff or sore joints
• Favoring a limb
• Difficulty sitting or standing
• Sleeping more than usual
• A personality change that involves resisting touch
• Weight gain
• Decreased activity or less interest in play
• Barking or whimpering when touched
• Seeming less alert

What Is Arthritis?
Canine arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is characterized by pain and inflammation in a dog’s joints. Arthritis is caused by the breaking down of smooth cartilage that covers and protects the bones that form a joint. Once the bones are exposed, painful wear and tear can occur.

Treatment for canine arthritis begins with prevention, as keeping a dog at a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise is important for long-term health.



If you notice any of the above symptoms in your dog, please take them to your Vet for a checkup!

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Heat Stroke in Dogs

 

Heat stroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or elevated body temperature. Generally speaking, if a pet's body temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it is considered abnormal or hyperthermic. Body temperatures above 106°F (41°F) without previous signs of illness are most commonly associated with exposure to excessive external or environmental heat and are often referred to as heat stroke. The critical temperature where multiple organ failure and impending death occurs is around 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C).

How do I know if my pet has heat stroke? 

Dogs suffering from heatstroke can have elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, abnormal gum color, bruising in the gums, may appear lethargic or disoriented, and can have seizures.

To read more on this story, click here: Heat Stroke in Dogs

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Puppies 101: How to Care for a Puppy

Bringing a new puppy into your home will change your life forever. Puppies are definitely a lot of work, but they also bring plenty of joy to your world. Whether you are ​getting your first puppy or just need a refresher course, here's what you'll need to know to get your puppy on the right track to adulthood.

Choosing the Right Puppy

If the time is right for getting a puppy, you will now have to choose the best match. Perhaps your future companion will find you. A puppy can come into your life by chance and you can feel an instant connection and know it is the right one, but it doesn't always happen like that. Often, you must take on the important task of going out and finding the right kind of puppy for you.

To read more on this story, click here: Puppies 101: How to Care for a Puppy

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Artist Turns Nuts, Bolts, and Scrap Metal Into Life-Size Animal Sculptures

While most of us dispose of old car parts and unused cutlery at the dump, Aloha, Oregon-based artist Brian Mock turns scrap metal into fantastic outdoor sculptures. He collects use and discarded materials—such as screws, nuts, and bolts—and assembles them into human and animal forms.

Mock has been exploring a number of artistic practices from an early age, but discovered his love of upcycling art in the 1990s. He taught himself how to weld, allowing him to visualize his artistic ideas as metal sculptures. Today, he’s creating an entire zoo of metallic animals—including dogs, cats, and larger-than-life lions—all from 100% reclaimed materials. Mock chooses each piece of scrap metal carefully to fit the forms of his subjects—dog tails are depicted as flexible metal chains, and floppy ears are crafted from large sheets of curved steel.

To read more on this story, click here: Artist Turns Nuts, Bolts, and Scrap Metal Into Life-Size Animal Sculptures

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Meet Winnie, The Cocker Spaniel That Looks Like A Real-Life Disney Character

Adorable puppies are programmed to win people’s hearts at first glance but in this specific case of unbelievable cuteness, it is nearly impossible to resist going “awwww.” Meet an unreasonably cute doe-eyed cocker spaniel from the UK called Winnie. She has been flooding social media and news feeds around the globe for the past week, and we are not even mad about it. Who would mind a little bit of pup-therapy to brighten up their day?

To read more on this story, click here: Meet Winnie, The Cocker Spaniel That Looks Like A Real-Life Disney Character

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5 Training Commands to Save Your Dog’s Life

Imagine how you would feel if your dog ran into a busy street, ignoring your calls because he or she didn’t understand what you were trying to communicate?

Obedience training needs to be about safety, rather than tricks. Here are 5 must-know obedience commands that you should start practicing now.

To read more on this story, click here: 5 Training Commands to Save Your Dog’s Life

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Tips To Help Stop Your Dog From Sitting Down On Walks

Some dogs just love walking on a leash and getting some exercise and fresh air.

Sometimes, your dog will be tired, bored or just not up for the walk, so he might sit (or even lie) down and not get up.

The problem is that once your dog starts sitting down on his or her walks, it could become the new normal.

And if this does happen, you need to correct the behavior right away.

To read more on this story, click here: Tips To Help Stop Your Dog From Sitting Down On Walks

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Changchun, China: Millionaire Spent Fortune Turning Slaughterhouse Into Dog Sanctuary

We can all imagine what we’d spend our money on if we were a millionaire: cars, a nice house, etc. But one millionaire decided to be incredibly selfless, using his fortune to save the lives of thousands of dogs instead.

Wang Yan became a millionaire running a steel business in the city of Changchun, China. But all the money in the world couldn’t replace his beloved dog, who suddenly went missing years ago.

After searching everywhere for the dog, someone suggested a grim last place to check: the slaughterhouse.

The city has a large stray dog population, and many of these dogs have been captured, butchered and sold in the cruel dog meat trade.

Sadly, Wang Yan did not find his own dog in this horrible place… but what he saw there changed his life.

He knew he had to do something—and found a miraculous way to help the dogs: he bought the slaughterhouse… and converted it into a dog sanctuary!

According to Metro, he has spent a huge amount of his fortune on the project. He bought the slaughterhouse for $400,000, and funds the shelter out of his own pocket… even if it means going into debt.

“I don’t accept monetary donations, I only hope that kind-hearted people will be able to donate a few supplies to help,” Yan told Metro.

But his sacrifices have seen incredible results: as of 2015, Yan took in 2,000 dogs from the city area and helped 200 get adopted.

It’s always nice to see anyone go out of their way to help dogs, but for this man to spend so much of his own fortune to save these dogs’ lives is truly incredible. Share this inspiring story!

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Man Leaves $5 Million for the Care of His Beloved Pet

A Nashville dog named Lulu is a newly minted millionaire. Yep, you read that right.

Her owner's last will and testament has made the 8-year-old border collie one wildly pampered pooch.

"She's a good girl," Martha Burton, Lulu's now caretaker, told CNN affiliate WTVF.

Lulu has been under the watchful eye of Burton, 88, for years already. Burton says she's kept Lulu during the frequent travels of the dog's owner. "Well, he always left the dog for me to take care of," said Burton.

Lulu's owner, 83-year-old Bill Dorris, was Burton's friend and an unmarried, successful businessman. He died late last year and left $5 million for the care of his beloved pet. "I don't really know what to think about it to tell you the truth. He just really loved the dog," Burton said.

The will specifies: "This trust is to provide for all the needs of Lulu. The dog will remain in possession of Martha Burton."

According to WTVF, the estate is currently in probate and it's not yet clear how much it's worth. The will does state, however, that Burton will simply be reimbursed for reasonable monthly expenses to care for Lulu.

It's not clear what will happen to any money left in the trust when 8-year-old Lulu someday passes away.

Burton knows there's no way she could ever spend $5 million on the canine. Not even a lifetime supply of treats and toys for Lulu could make a dent in the incredible inheritance.

She said with a smile, "Well, I'd like to try."

Lulu's late owner Dorris had a piece of property along Interstate 65 that is the site of a controversial statue of Nathan Bedford Forrest. Forrest was a Confederate general and an early leader of the Ku Klux Klan.

The statue of Forrest is widely visible from I-65. According to CNN affiliate WZTV, the contentious statue has been vandalized several times over the years. Pink paint was thrown on it in 2017 and the word "monster" was painted on the figure in October of last year. Dorris never had any of it cleaned off.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has denied previous requests to block the view of the statue. The future of that statue will also be determined in probate court.

                                              Lulu and her now caretaker Martha Burton.

                                          Lulu plays watchdog outside of her Nashville home.

Statue of Confederate General and leader of the Ku Klux Klan, Nathan Bedford Forrest, on the property of the late Bill Dorris.

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When Humans Are Victims of Violence, Their Animals Become Victims Too

Here at the shelter we are very versed in handling pets that have been the victims of abuse and neglect. Through the years we’ve seen animals that have suffered everything from cruel abandonment to outright torture.

At this moment, we are dealing with some dogs that are victims of a different sort. They are the pets of people whose lives have been snuffed out or horribly altered by violence. A drive by shooting, a murder/suicide, a domestic altercation resulting in serious injury; all leaving innocent pets homeless in their wake. It’s rather scary. It feels as though we are a facility located in some big city where these things occur with deeply disturbing regularity.

To read more on this story, click here: When Humans Are Victims of Violence, Their Animals Become Victims Too

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Lower Urinary Tract Problems In Dogs

There are many problems that can affect a dog’s lower urinary system. Incontinence, bladder stones or crystals in the urine, bacterial infections, cancer, trauma or even obstruction of the urethra, the tube that allows urine to pass from the bladder to the outside of the body, can occur.

What Causes Lower Urinary Tract Problems in Dogs?

• Stones, crystals or debris accumulation in the bladder or urethra
• Bladder inflammation or infection
• Incontinence from excessive water drinking or weak bladder/hormonal issue
• Trauma
• Cancer
• Stress
• Spinal cord abnormalities
• Congenital abnormality
• Prostate disease

What Health Conditions Might Lead to Lower Urinary Tract Problems?
The most common lower urinary tract disease in dogs over seven years of age is incontinence related to a weak urinary sphincter muscle, allowing urine to “leak” out. Bacterial infections are also common. Endocrine diseases such as adrenal disease and diabetes mellitus can predispose dogs to bacterial infection of the lower urinary tract.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Lower Urinary Tract Problems?
Older female dogs and dogs with diabetes are especially prone to urinary tract problems. There are different types of bladder stones that have a tendency to form under different conditions-some in older dogs, some in either males or females, and some in specific breeds under certain circumstances.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has Urniary Tract Problems?
The following signs may indicate that your dog is having trouble with his urinary tract:

• Inability to urinate or only passing a small amount of urine
• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Fever
• Loss of bladder control, dribbling urine
• Increased amount and/or frequency of urination
• Straining and/or crying out in pain when trying to pass urine
• Soiling in inappropriate places
• Constant licking of urinary opening
• Strong odor to the urine
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Changes in appetite
• Weight loss
• Severe back pain
• Increased water consumption

How Are Lower Urinary Tract Problems Diagnosed?
A veterinary visit for lower urinary tract issues will start with a physical examination and usually will include examination of the kidneys and bladder, a urinalysis and possibly urine culture, blood work, radiographs or ultrasound.

How Are Lower Urinary Tract Problems Treated? 
Because canine urinary problems are so varied and potentially serious in nature, your first step is to get immediate veterinary care for your pet. Depending on your dog’s diagnosis, one of the following may be recommended:

• Antibiotics
• Medications or supplements
• Dietary changes
• Increase in water intake
• Urinary acidifiers or alkalinizers
• Intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy
• Surgery or other procedures to remove bladder stones or tumor
• Surgery to correct congenital abnormality
• Treatment of underlying condition that is contributing to urinary problem (e.g. diabetes mellitus)

 What Can Happen If a Dog’s Lower Urinary Tract Problems Go Untreated?
Untreated lower urinary problems can lead to serious medical problems in addition to causing discomfort for your pet. Bladder infections can move to the kidneys and cause life-threatening infections. Stones can cause partial or complete obstruction of the urethra, preventing a dog from urinating. This medical emergency can lead to kidney failure and/or rupture of the bladder, and can prove fatal if the obstruction is not relieved right away.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Lower Urinary Tract Problems?
Please see your veterinarian for immediate medical attention, especially if your dog is straining to urinate or crying out in pain. This could be a medical emergency!

Source: WebMD Veterinary Reference from ASPCA Virtual Pet Behaviorist

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