How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!
 
Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.
 
The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

• Better blood circulation
• Shinier and healthier coat
• Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

• Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
• The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
• Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
• Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
• If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com
  

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!
 
Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.
 
The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

• Better blood circulation
• Shinier and healthier coat
• Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

• Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
• The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
• Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
• Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
• If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com
  

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!
 
Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.
 
The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

• Better blood circulation
• Shinier and healthier coat
• Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

• Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
• The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
• Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
• Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
• If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com
  

The High Costs of Pet Care

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Solutions for Combating Pet Care Inflation

Many Americans own one or more pets. But caring for a pet, of any size, is not cheap. In just a moment, I'll share a number of tips for fighting back against the high costs often associated with caring for your pet.

The best savings tip here is, if you genuinely don't love animals a great deal, don't get one as a pet! Dogs are high maintenance and expensive to take proper care of, as are many other animals.

If you are an animal person, consider that many breeds of dogs do make excellent home guardians. If not as an actual line of defense against a home invasion, certainly as an early warning system that could buy you precious seconds to collect your wits and position yourself defensively.

Of course, as most pet owners realize (possibly with a bit of resentment), veterinarians really do have a NICE business going for themselves – and at higher and higher prices.

Inflation is hitting pets, and their owners, too

"Prices have gone up much quicker in the last 10 years than in the past 30 years, and it's hitting consumers in the face," says René Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

1. Routine doctor and surgical visits for dogs jumped 47%, cats 74% from a decade ago, according to the American Pet Products Association.
2. Rising liability for vets has translated into more X-rays, more blood work and other tests, just to cover their bases – in other words, more cost for standard routine care, according to Carlson.
3. Owners are opting for more advanced care such as ophthalmology, MRIs, CAT scans, and cancer treatment like chemo and radiation.
4. Insurance claims costing more than $1,000 at Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI) soared 64% from four years earlier.
5. Petplan insurance claims the average annual payout per pet for cancer therapy rose 14% last year.
6. Even increased tuition and student loans for veterinarian school are padding the rising costs, according to a special report in Time magazine.

Fortunately, you have many options to fight back and protect your buying power.

Saving Money on Pets with Special Coupons

For basic pet supplies, food, and even grooming, you can look for pet-related coupons online.

Start by searching "pet coupons." To get more specific add the name brand (e.g., Purina) or the name of the store (e.g., Petco) to your search and the latest deals should pop up.

Grooming your pet is important and using a professional groomer can help maintain your pet's health and well-being; however, frequent visits can add up quickly. To cut costs, you should brush your pet regularly, have your dog get a short cut to minimize trips to the groomer, and learn how to properly trim your pet's nails safely on your own.

Save on Veterinary Care

Even with the quickly rising costs, it's important not to cut corners with your pet's health. You don't want them to develop diseases or infections that become even more costly to take care of later. As with your own health, prevention and staying healthy saves a ton of money in the long-term.

1. Shop around and find a good vet at a reasonable cost.
2. Comparison shop among reliable pet pharmacies on the Internet. Be certain to look through any company's website carefully before you order. Your neighborhood pharmacy may have what you're looking for, but make sure to double check with your vet first.
3. For very expensive procedures such as surgeries, get a second opinion. The second visit will cost extra, but it may be worth the investment.
4. Negotiate the prices with your vet. Asking won't hurt and you may be pleasantly surprised.
5. Consumer Reports suggests checking prices for shots and spay/neuter services at a humane society or SPCA. Sometimes they even offer free or low-cost services to low-income and senior-citizen pet owners.
6. For minor problems, or when problems first appear, searching for answers on pet websites like JustAnswer.com or AskMyVet.net or TerrificPets.com could set your mind at ease and save you from an extra trip to the vet. You could also try calling your vet and speak to a vet technician to get a clearer indication if an emergency trip is necessary or not.

Are There Medical Benefits to Pets?

If you've ever seen how dogs and other animals are received during visits to many nursing home communities, it's easy to accept the growing body of medical research which strongly suggests that pets can have a positive medical influence on their owners.

Prior research shows that having a pet helps lower high blood pressure, prevent heart disease, and combat depression. Elderly Medicare patients who live with pets had fewer medical visits than similar patients without.

A new study from the American Psychology Association, now shows that pets "serve as important sources of social and emotional support for 'everyday people,'" as reported in Science Daily.

Lead researcher Allen R. McConnell comments, "Specifically, pet owners had greater self-esteem, were more physically fit, tended to be less lonely, were more conscientious, were more extraverted, tended to be less fearful and tended to be less preoccupied than non-owners."

These sound like vital assets for self-reliance and preparedness. Not to mention, owning a pet, even a small one like a fish, can help the young people in your life learn responsibility, discipline, and prepare for life events (in a somewhat controlled environment) such as illness, birth and death.

Is Pet Insurance Worth the Cost?

A recent Consumer Reports compared nine different pet insurance policies on the lifetime vet bills for a 10-year-old beagle. It found that insurance coverage would not work out financially for routine visits over the time frame used.

However, if you factored in severe or costly services such as chronic arthritis or the removal of a benign tumor, a few of the policies had a positive payout.

Here's the bottom line, if you tend to get emotionally attached to pets, and you could see yourself springing for a $20,000 kidney transplant out of your own pocket if the situation arose, then it may well make sense to insulate yourself now by getting a pet insurance policy.

Pet insurance isn't cheap, but it may also make sense if it will give you peace of mind. And it may be a better investment if you have a pet known to develop certain medical conditions. For instance, certain breeds of dogs develop hip problems easily.

Consumer Reports offers these suggestions if you decide to buy insurance coverage for your pet:

1. Review a sample policy and get familiar with the terms and conditions, limitations, pre-existing condition exclusions, and what you're responsible for regarding deductible and co-pays.
2. Wellness care riders aren't generally worth the added cost.
3. Choose the highest deductible for a catastrophic type plan.
4. What many pet owners do if they choose not to purchase insurance... create an emergency savings fund for their pets.

Save Money on Food Costs and Still Feed Your Pet Well

Reducing your pet's ongoing food bill can save a small fortune over time. But you want to be careful not to cut the wrong corners and affect your pet's nutrition and health.

Feeding your cat or dog poor quality food could result in diabetes, cancer and kidney problems (much like with their owners).

Some proponents to pet nutrition believe buying meat in bulk from the local store and preparing it for their dog or cat can be healthier and cheaper than feeding canned food or dry food. You can search online for many methods to prepare homemade food for your cat or dog.

For other pets such as rabbits, birds, and others, consider buying bulk food from a feed store, online, or big box store such as Wal-Mart.

Cutting Boarding Costs...

If you have travel plans and need to leave your pet behind, boarding can add a large expense to your travel plans. Here are some ideas to cut boarding costs:

1. Ask a friend or neighbor to care for your pet.
2. Hire someone like a sitter or dog walker to drop in on your pet and care of it.
3. Look for special promotions on petching.com or coupaw.com. Their deals change frequently so finding the deal you need, when you need it, may not be easy but worth a shot.
4. Finally, if you need to board your pet, negotiate a better deal or practice your bartering skills. Just by asking, it might work out in your favor.

Yours in Freedom,

Lee Bellinger, Publisher
Independent Living

P.S. – In today's economy, owning a pet is becoming more of an extravagance than many folks can or should indulge in. I'm a dog lover, but I can certainly think it's wise to think long and hard before becoming a pet owner – from a financial standpoint.

Source: https://www.independentlivingnews.com/2012/04/17/cutting-pet-care-costs-wo-eliminating-your-pets/

© 2012 Lee Bellinger's Executive Bulletin, a free supplemental email newsletter to Independent Living.

---

Also, see: How to Afford Veterinary Care Without Mortgaging the Kids

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!

Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.

The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

Better blood circulation
Shinier and healthier coat
Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com

Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for Pet Owners

Here's a great New Year's article that I thought I would pass on... Happy New Year! –Kim

Top Ten Resolutions for Your Pet

Get organized. Check. Get a better job. Check. Lose weight. Check that one twice. This New Year isn't unlike any other – you've probably made resolutions that you'll struggle to keep after the first week. petMD.com suggests making a real difference in 2012 by forging a pact with your pet. These resolutions will help keep your pet happy, healthy and safe throughout the year. And well, what's more important than that?

1. Pet-proof your home – As you may already know, pets get into anything and everything! Keep poisons and other dangerous items in secure places, preferably in a locked cabinet or in a room that is out of the animal's reach.
2. Get your pet ID'd – Whether it is an ID tag or a microchip or GPS tracking device, identifying your pet and your contact information will help your chances of having your pet returned should it become lost – especially in the case of lost dogs and cats. Just remember to keep the contact information current!
3. Socialize your pet – Don't worry; you don't have to create a Facebook profile for them. But like children, your pet can become destructive and unmanageable when she is not given enough attention or is not allowed to socialize with other animals of her kind. Obedience training is just what your pet needs to learn some manners. And remember, it's never too late to train an animal.
4. Groom your pet – There is nothing worse than a stinky pet. Stay on top of her grooming routine – bathe her, brush her coat, and clip her nails. All these things will make her the envy of your block. And if you haven't noticed yet, your pet is usually happier when she is clean and pretty.
5. Have your pet spayed or neutered – Of course we all know spaying (and neutering) helps decrease the population of strays, but did you know many veterinarians believe it can benefit the animal's health too? Among the health benefits: a decrease in testicular cancer, prostate problems, urine marking and inter-dog (or inter-cat) aggression for males, and a decrease in mammary cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer for females.
6. Use preventives – Why worry about heartworms, fleas and other pesky parasites? Preventives are your pet's best line of defense against parasites and the deadly dog diseases and cat diseases they cause. Also, consult your veterinarian. Year-round use may be needed in warmer regions.
7. Create a maintenance checklist – Maintenance is perhaps the most dreaded of all pet resolutions. Perhaps it's the awful smells or all the cleaning involved. Whatever the reason, developing proper maintenance habits (e.g., emptying the litter box, cleaning the cage, changing the newspaper clippings) will create a clean and pleasant environment for your pet. Also, poor sanitation can lead to behavior and health issues.
8. Customize your pet's diet – Diets should be suited to the animal's age and size. When kept at her ideal body weight, your pet can live a longer, healthier life. She is also at a lower risk of heart disease, joint problems, and various other conditions associated with poor health.
9. Exercise with your pet more – Need an exercise partner? Look no further. Some dogs are satisfied with a walk around the neighborhood once a day, while others require additional exercise time. Take her to a park, to the beach or to your backyard, just make sure you have fun, too! Oh, and don't forget about your other pet(s). Just because she isn't a dog, doesn't mean she doesn't need exercise. (We're looking at you, Kitty!)
10. Don't postpone the annual checkup – Not only will waiting until your pet is ill lead to unnecessary suffering, complications may arise and this will make the animal's course of treatment more expensive. Keep your vet bills in check and visit the white-coated professional regularly.

View slideshow: "Top 10 New Year's Resolutions"

---

About petMD: petMD.com is a leading online resource focused solely on the health and well-being of pets. The site maintains the world's largest pet health library, written and approved by a network of trusted veterinarians.

Source: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petmd-suggests-top-10-new-years-resolutions-for-pet-owners-136374503.html

Static Dog

Here's a really cute video that I thought I would pass on... –Kim

Static Dog

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!

Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.

The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

Better blood circulation
Shinier and healthier coat
Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com

Ear Infections

Here's an informative article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim

Ear Anatomy 101
by Dr. Andrew Jones

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons that pet owners visit their veterinarian. Typically, I would see an increased number of ear infections in the spring.

Now is a good time to review ear anatomy, what causes ear infections, and exact steps you can use to prevent and treat them at home.

The ear consists of the outer portion (the pinna), the 2 sections of the ear canal (the vertical ear canal and horizontal ear canal), the ear drum and the inner ear.

Most ear infections involve the outer ear, meaning the vertical and horizontal ear canals.

SIGNS

Your pet keeps shaking his head and scratching at his ears. Often you will see a foul-smelling black, yellow or brown discharge. The ears may be very red and tender.

CAUSES

Ear mites are infectious parasites primarily found in young cats. They are spread through direct contact from cat to cat. Ear infections are most typical in dogs. Most ear infections are caused by an underlying allergy. Some are caused by water in the ear after bathing or swimming. Dogs with large floppy ears, such as Basset Hounds, are prone to infections as their ear canals have poor air circulation, trapping moisture and allowing bacteria and yeast to grow.

The basis for PREVENTING ear infections is learning how to clean your pet's ears properly.

How to Clean Your Pet's Ears Properly

You will need an ear cleanser, cotton balls, and may need someone to help gently restrain your pet by holding their head while you clean his/her ears.

Apply cleanser to the ear as shown or by soaking a cotton ball and placing it in the ear. Attempt to fill each ear canal until it is overflowing or apply approximately 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of Ear Cleanser. This can be a veterinary cleanser, or a mixture of vinegar and water.

Massage the cleanser into the ear canal by gently massaging the base of the ear where the cartilage turns. Massage for about a minute to dislodge the attached wax. If necessary, occlude the canal with a small amount of cotton during this process to protect against drenching, should your pet shake his/her head. For maximum benefit, allow cleanser to remain in the ear canal for at least 5 minutes before attempting to manually clean.

With a cotton ball over your fingertip, wipe the accessible portion of the ear and ear canal clean (so the debris sticks to the cotton), as shown.

Let your pet shake out any excess cleanser.

Repeat the above steps in the other ear.

Don't insert cotton swabs into the ears! They should only be used in the visible portion of the ear and ear canal.

Treating Ear Infections

When your pet has an ear infection, you need to be doing more than just cleaning it.

STEP 1 - Cleaning

CLEAN THEM. White vinegar (acetic acid) is very effective at removing debris from the ears and killing the yeast and bacteria responsible for ear infections. *If your dog or cat has red, open wounds, do not use this, as it will be painful. You need to use a soothing topical first (i.e., olive oil and Vitamin E).

Dilute the vinegar with water 50:50. Pick up a syringe from your local pharmacy and put 5 ml of the vinegar solution per 20 lbs of body weight into the affected ear. (Your cat would get 2.5 ml or 1/2 tsp). Grab the ear where it attaches to the head (at the ear base), gently squeeze your thumb and forefinger together, rubbing the solution deep into the ear canals. Wipe the inside of the ear well with cotton balls to remove debris coming from the ear canal. Continue to do this daily for 5-7 days. For dogs with recurring infections, this can be done weekly.

HEALING OILS. This is especially helpful if your pet's ears are inflamed and difficult to touch. You can use a mixture of 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil combined with 1 capsule of Vitamin E oil and insert that into your pets ear. Let it soak for 5 minutes, then rub the base of the ear well and wipe out excess debris with a cotton ball.

BURROW'S SOLUTION. This is one that I discuss for use in Hot Spots, but it can also be used for ear infections and ear cleaning. It is a solution of aluminum acetate in water. It is used as an astringent wet dressing to relieve inflammatory conditions of the skin, such as swelling, allergies and bruises. Burrow's solution has antibacterial effects, and will inhibit the growth of bacteria commonly found in ear infections. Apply 5-6 drops in both ears, cleaning twice daily.

STEP 2 - Treating the Infection

LESSEN THE INFLAMMATION. Most ear infections produce red, inflamed ears, so it is important to decrease the inflammation. ALOE or CALENDULA essential oil can be applied topically in the ears twice daily to decrease inflammation.

HERBAL INFUSION. Another oil infusion consists of: OREGON GRAPE, MARSHMALLOW AND GARLIC. Soak the dried herbs overnight in olive oil – this can also be mixed with Vitamin E.

TREAT THE INFECTION. GARLIC, SAGE and THYME have antibacterial and antifungal properties. One treatment is to soak garlic cloves overnight with Calendula oil. Remove the garlic and instill the calendula-garlic mixture twice daily.

HOMEOPATHIC: SILICA. Useful for dogs with recurrent ear infections. Most have excessive debris. The typical dose is 30C twice daily.

Common organisms causing the infections include yeast (suspect this if the debris is brown and has a sweet odor). Yeast often responds well to vinegar.

Less commonly, there is a bacteria called Pseudomonas. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a specific species of bacteria that is resistant to almost every possible antibiotic. This is often found as a cause of chronic, recurring ear infections.

Silvadene/silver sulfadiazine

This is as a wound cream, but it also has activity against Pseudomonas. The cream can be prepared in water for an easier ear administration.

Tris-EDTA

EDTA is a binder of metals that are important to the bacterial cell wall. It is sold in veterinary clinics as TrizEDTA, a 4 ounce container to which 112 ml of distilled water is added. The method of usage is to place the TrizEDTA in the ear. In practice I would combine it with injectable Baytril, and I found it to be effective for Pseudomonas.

STEP 3 - Preventing the Infection From Coming Back

Most recurring ear infections have an underlying cause.

ALLERGY DIET. For dogs that get recurring ear infections, it is important to try a less allergenic diet. It should include a completely different protein with minimal added ingredients. For example, one commercial diet is made of fish and sweet potato.

BIOFLAVONOIDS. These are the wonderful groups of structures found in the pigment of fruits and vegetables. Quercetin has been effective for people with allergies and may be effective in dogs. The dose is 25 mg per 10 lbs of body weight daily.

FATTY ACIDS. These are a must for any allergy that triggers recurring ear infections: flax oil for dogs (1 tsp per cup of dog food) and fish oil for cats (1 capsule per 10 lbs). I advise therapeutic doses of EFA's at 1000 mg per 10 lbs, daily.

VITAMIN C. This may help your pet, and is worth a try. It suppresses the product released from cells in the body that causes itching (histamine), and is an antioxidant. Start with a low dose of 100 mg twice daily per 10 lbs of body weight.

ANTIOXIDANTS. Vitamin E may help: the dose is 100 IU per 10 lbs of body weight, once daily.

ANTIHISTAMINES. Benadryl is the most commonly used antihistamine. It is given at a dose of 1 mg per pound of body weight, 2-3 times a day. Cats respond well to Chlortripolon at 2 mg, 2-3 times a day. It is best to consult your veterinarian before using these medications. It often takes 14 days of using these to see if they are helping.

Some ear infections simply cannot be controlled with the above steps (although MOST can). In those advanced cases surgery may be your only option. BUT if you are diligent in cleaning, and attempt to prevent the infection in the first place, you can AVOID surgery.

Source: http://www.theonlinevet.com/members/latest_articles/earinfections.php (requires membership)
Copyright © 2011 Four Paws Online Ltd

---

Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM has been a practicing Veterinarian for almost 20 years. He is a strong advocate of Natural Pet Health Care, and knows that the most important way to heal our pets and prevent disease is through proper nutrition. He developed Ultimate Canine to give our dogs that extra advantage – something that will provide them with everything they need to develop stronger immune systems to fight disease, heal sore or stiff joints, and help them live longer, happier lives. Dr. Andrew Jones' main focus is on alternative, non-traditional remedies for pets. His interest in alternative pet medicine culminated in the writing of his book, Veterinary Secrets Revealed.

New Year's Resolutions for You and Your Dog

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

10 Suggestions for Keeping a Dog Healthy and Happy, and Strengthening the Bond

Janet Wendy Spiegel
December 28, 2010

Every year, between holiday festivities and Jan. 1, about 100 million Americans make resolutions for the new year. To help you make resolutions you can keep, here is a list of things you can do to build your relationship with your pet.

1. Walk your dog every day for at least 20 minutes (about one mile). It'll get you in shape, leave your dog a bit tired after structured, focused exercise, and build your pooch-person bond.
2. Take a nature hike once a month with your pup.
3. Clip your dog's claws every few months.
4. Brush your dog's teeth to avoid deep plaque build-up and costly vet bills.
5. Consider training your dog as a therapy dog.
6. Bake your own dog treats.
   
7. Make sure your dog's license is current.
8. Keep your pet's vaccinations current. (But, keep them to a minimum; don't overdo them!)
9. Buy your dog a sweater – or knit one!
10. Spend a lazy weekend day watching a movie and cuddling with your pup in bed.
    

Happy New Year!

Source: http://encino.patch.com/articles/new-years-resolutions-for-you-and-your-dog
Copyright © 2010 Patch

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Winter

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim

Cold Weather Hazards that Threaten Your Pet
Dec 10, 2010

As temperatures continue to plummet, pet owners must ensure the safety and well-being of their animals.

Shelter, food and water: Cats should be kept inside at all times, year-round, to protect from the many life-threatening dangers always present outside. Dogs should also live inside. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, you are required by law to provide proper shelter. Outdoor dogs also need bedding and additional fat in their diets during the winter to help build up natural insulation. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water in a secure, non-tip dish at all times. Check the water bowl frequently to make sure that it hasn't frozen.

Keep them safe: Snow and ice increase an animal's chances of becoming disoriented and lost if roaming the streets. Bad weather conditions make it extra difficult for cars to stop, increasing the animal's chance of getting hit. Keeping pets indoors and walking your dog on a leash will prevent such tragedies.

Beware of ice, salt, and snow: Jagged ice and sidewalk salt can injure or irritate a dog's foot pads. After returning home from a walk, check the foot pads and wipe off any salt or ice with a damp towel. Also, dry your dog thoroughly whenever it comes in from the snow. Consider using doggy boots for little feet.

Danger of frostbite: Even though dogs and cats have a fur coat, most cannot endure severe cold for more than 10 to 15 minutes. A companion animal left outdoors can get frostbite and even freeze to death. Signs of frostbite include skin that is pale and cool to the touch, with decreased sensation in the affected area. If you suspect frostbite, gently warm the area with warm, not hot, water and then take the animal to a veterinarian. After thawing, there may be pain or redness on the frostbitten area. Once an area has been frozen it can become cold and frostbitten again more easily. Consider a doggy coat for your smaller canine friend.

Keep away from anti-freeze: Animals are attracted to this substance by its sweet taste. It can be fatal if ingested, so keep all anti-freeze bottles out of your pet's reach. Also be sure to clean up any spills in your garage or driveway immediately. If your cat or dog should swallow anti-freeze – or any poison – contact your veterinarian immediately.

Honk car's horn: In cold weather, cats allowed outdoors may crawl beneath cars and climb up inside the engine compartment seeking warmth and shelter. This can lead to injuries or death when the engines are started. To prevent such an occurrence, keep your cat indoors at all times. To protect stray cats, knock on your car's hood or sound your horn before starting the car in cold weather.

Keep them groomed: Animals tend to shed hair less during the cold months, but still require regular brushing. Cats generally do not need a bath – they clean themselves. Dogs should be bathed only if needed and not more than once a month. When bathing any animal, be sure to use a shampoo that is specifically safe for a cat or dog and follow label directions completely.

Holiday hazards: Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias are all poisonous to pets. Make sure your holiday tree is steady so it can't be knocked over. Protect your cat or dog from drinking stagnant Christmas tree water, eating candy, chocolate or potentially injurious ornaments, tinsel and trimming, or nibbling on the cords from decorations. Keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don't slip out the door as your visitors come and go. Do not give a cat or dog as a gift. Give a gift certificate for a pet adoption from a shelter and allow the recipient to select an animal that is appropriate for their lifestyle. Make sure your pet has a variety of toys or make your own.

Source: http://couriernews.suntimes.com/news/2767099-417/dog-animal-cat-cats-cold.html
© Copyright 2010 Sun-Times Media, LLC

---

Also, see:

• Top Ten Winter Pet Safety Tips
• Winter Tips for Pet Safety
• Winter Weather Pet Safety Tips
• Protection for Small Dogs at Golly Gear
• Warm & Pretty Dog Clothing and Fashions
• Heated Pet Beds/Supplies at GregRobert
• Heated Pet Beds/Supplies at Pet Street Mall

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!

Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.

The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

Better blood circulation
Shinier and healthier coat
Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com

9 Tips for a Chic, Pet-friendly Home

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Your Home can be Beautiful and Pet-friendly with these Pointers from Design Experts
By Leanne Potts

A lot of stylish people are letting their houses go to the dogs and the cats and the birds – without sacrificing style or comfort. Instead of banishing their furry friends to the yard, many pet owners are decorating and remodeling their living spaces with their pets' needs in mind, turning pet-friendly decorating into a full-blown trend.

"You can have a beautiful house and a pet, too," says Julia Szabo, pet columnist for the New York Post and author of Animal House Style: Designing a Home to Share with Your Pets.

"The key is choosing the right materials and accommodating your animals' needs." Julia, who shares her digs with a dozen rescued dogs and cats, says an animal-friendly house is more comfortable for humans, too. "If a house doesn't work with dogs, it won't work with children or guests, either."

DO vacuum regularly.

Even if you match your chaise to your Siamese so perfectly the hairballs are barely visible, vacuum kitty's hair off the furniture at least twice a week. You may need to vacuum daily when your pet is shedding.

Pet hair has an odor, and it contains an oil that will attract dirt to the fabric on which it sits. She suggests you invest in a Dyson DC14 Animal, an upright vacuum named for its miraculous ability to suck up animal hair. It costs around $550, but Julia says you'll wonder how you ever lived without it when you see the horrifying amounts of dirt and hair the Dyson picks up from your floors and furniture.

DO bathe and groom your pet often.

Keeping your dog or cat clean will help your house stay cleaner, longer. Trimmed nails won't scratch floors or upholstery. Regularly brushing and bathing removes loose hair before it ends up on your floor, your bed, your throw pillows, your curtains. Furniture and rugs will last longer if they don't need to be washed as often. Think of it this way: It's easier to clean your dog than your upholstery, and it's usually more fun.

DO use stain-resistant fabrics.

Forget silk, chintz or the pet-hair magnet known as velvet. Discover the joys of Crypton, a nearly indestructible, synthetic fabric that's resistant to stains, smells, bacteria and muddy paws.

William Wegman, the artist known for his Weimaraner photos, has designed a line of Crypton fabrics aimed at pet-obsessed style mavens that includes sturdy suedes and twills with names like Polka Dog and Material Dog. It's available in upholstery shops, from many furniture manufacturers and interior designers; you can find it online at www.cryptonfabric.com.

Leather is a good choice, easy to clean and durable. Most grades of leather will suffer only scratches from Fido or Fluffy's claws, but hey, the scratches add patina. If you see a sad irony in buying a sofa made from an animal for your animal, try pleather. It's cruelty-free, relatively inexpensive and has a timeless appeal.

Then there's Ultrasuede, a machine-washable microfiber that feels as smooth and seductive as real suede. "I can't say enough good things about Ultrasuede," Julia Szabo says. She has covered her 1950s Heywood-Wakefield sofa and chairs in Ultrasuede and even had a couple of pet beds made of it. "It's beautiful, and it always stays cool and comfortable no matter the climate. That's important for your and your animal's comfort." Velvet is a definite no-no for a home with pets. Ultrasuede is a stylish and easy-to-maintain alternative.

DO put washable fabrics on your bed.

If your dog or cat sleeps with you there will be accidents. "Cats barf a lot," Julia Szabo says. "Deal with it." Protect your mattress from the inevitable by covering it with a thick pad. Use cotton bedsheets, preferably in a medium color or a pattern that can hide the pet hair and stains between washings. For bedspreads, duvet covers work well because you can take them off and wash them regularly. Delicate-looking matelasse coverlets are surprisingly durable; their tight quilting resists pet toenail snags and repeated washings.

DO skip wall-to-wall carpet.

Carpet absorbs odors, traps pet hair and soaks up inevitable pet-related stains like a sponge. "I try to steer pet owners away from carpet," says Chicago interior designer Nan Ruvel, who designs animal-friendly interiors for clients and lives with three cats. "It's difficult to keep clean. It's a bad idea."

If you must have carpet, she says, choose a low pile. "It's easier to clean if there's an accident." And avoid continuous loop carpet because a pet toenail can unravel it by catching a single woven loop.

DO choose hard surface floors.

Bare floors are the way to go, but bare doesn't have to be boring. Painted concrete is lovely and durable, as are terrazzo and brick. Hardwood floors are simple to mop or vacuum and add a warm glow to a room, but keep in mind that large dogs can scratch wood.

The best floor is ceramic tile, because it's easy to clean and resistant to any stain an animal can dish out. Tile is toenail-proof, it makes a room look sleek and elegant, and it gives furry animals a cool place to nap during hot weather. Porous materials like marble or other natural stones aren't as pet-proof as other hard surfaces, since acids present in pet spit-up can stain them, even if they're sealed, designer Nan Ruvel says.

DO match colors to your pet's fur.

Your pet can be a source of inspiration when choosing colors for your room. Paint a concrete floor the same shade of gray as your cat. Cover your sofa in a honey microfiber that matches your golden retriever. This isn't just an aesthetic shout-out to your pet; it's also a practical choice because the hair they leave behind won't be as visible. "Put a white floor in a house with a black Lab, you're going to have black tumbleweeds everywhere," says Nan Ruvel.

Julia Szabo tells of a New York artist who painted a room in his Manhattan digs a brilliant shade of green inspired by his Amazon parrot. "It reminds the parrot of his ancestral home in the jungle. The wall is gorgeous, and it makes the bird much happier," she says. Painting walls white is a bad idea aesthetically and practically, she says. "Let's face it; a white wall goes gray in a minute around dogs." This forces you to be more creative and daring when choosing colors, Julia says. "Pets present you with the opportunity to really work with color."

DO give your pet tidy, attractive treats and toys.

Dogs adore pig's ears and rawhide bones, but Julia Szabo says they're a bad idea. "They're hideous, they're smelly and they're as bad for your pet as they are for your floor," she says, pointing out they're coated in nitrates and leave greasy stains on floors and furniture.

It's important to give your dog something to chew on, or he might go after a chair leg. Julia suggests rubber toys like the Kong or the Super-Tuff Rhino. For cats, Szabo recommends Everyday Studio's Cat Tree (www.everydaystudio.com), a scratching post/climbing tree combo that hangs on the wall. It's a chic, geometrically shaped concoction of colored metal and cardboard that offers a stylish alternative to homely, carpet-covered scratching posts and plywood climbing trees. "It's like a work of art for your pet; it's beautiful and it's functional," she says. Another option that will allow your cat to get out his inner panther, stylishly: shelves for him to perch on. Julia sells "Tiger Branches," a set of wooden demilune shelves that attach to the wall (www.animalhousestyle.com).

DO set up an animal room near an entry.

"It's important to consider your pet's lifestyle when you establish the layout of your house," Nan Ruvel says. "If your dog goes outside, make sure he can come back in through an area that's super-impervious." She just finished a project in which she converted a breakfast room into a mudroom for a client's two dogs. "She wanted a place where she could get dirt off them before they came in the house," she says. To do this, she put porcelain tile on the walls and floor of the breakfast room, which opened onto the backyard. She replaced the table with a banquette upholstered in stain-resistant fabric and equipped with under-the-seat storage for leashes and food. Nan also installed built-in shelves on the walls where the client could keep towels used to wipe the dirt off the dogs when they came inside from the yard.

Source: http://www.hgtv.com/crafting/dog-gone-stylish/index.html
© 2010 Scripps Networks, LLC

How Well is Your Dog Groomed?

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

How to Groom Your Dog at Home

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple – your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!

Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.

The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

• Better blood circulation
• Shinier and healthier coat
• Better bonding

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:

• Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.
• The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
• Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.
• Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.
• If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.

Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start grooming your dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home, today.

Copyright © 2009 TrainPetDog.com

How Dog Show Judges Pick the Winner

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

What's the Deciding Factor at Dog Shows?

By Sharon L. Peters, Special for USA TODAY
2/2/2010

It's all so very hushed and elegant.

Perfectly groomed, perfectly behaved dogs and humans striding, gliding and prancing their way around the show ring. The audience riveted, silent.

Then someone in a beaded gown or tuxedo suddenly commands all attention. He or she issues a few requests, approaches a dog to study a turn of its ear, or does something mysterious with hands around flanks or other body parts, and in a heartbeat there's one winner and a several who are, well, not winners.

That instant decision-making by the judge after he or she has conducted a few explorations and commanded an extra trot around the ring has always bewildered me. Just what are they investigating or hoping to find? And is three seconds long enough to make that discovery?

I turned to veteran judge Desmond J. Murphy of Monroe, N.Y., a third-generation dog man who grew up among Whippets and Greyhounds and terriers at his family's breeding kennels, has been an AKC judge since 1976, and is now approved to judge 110 breeds. Murphy judged afghan hounds, Cavalier King Charles spaniels and English toy spaniels at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach a few weeks back that airs Saturday on Animal Planet and Discovery Channel.

He graciously walked me through the basics.

First: Is it as easy as it looks for a judge to eye those incredibly wonderful specimens that compete in crème de la crème competitions and then, in just minutes, do that point-and-nod action that declares winners? Not at all, he acknowledges. It's usually fairly easy to quickly sort out which are the "top six or eight" in any class, he says. But then "it's like splitting hairs." You're considering the breed standards — the qualities like carriage and color and conformation the animals are bred to achieve. "Your mind is racing overtime," he says, adding "three of the greatest experts judging a particular class might conceivably all agree on the top three," but could disagree on which comes in first, second and third. "One might give more priority to the shape of the eye," for example.

So what's the final decider? It often boils down to a particular dog's "performance on a given day," he says. The judge is watching things like extension when the dog runs, its show-ring presence and its attitude — "there's an old expression, for example, about afghans, that an afghan should act like it owns the ground it walks on" — and things like that are always running through judges' heads, as well as hard-earned knowledge of the somewhat more subtle qualities prized in each breed. And in the end, some of the very best dogs sometimes just have a bad day. "Some go to 200 shows a year. A dog can't be at its peak each and every time."

Is it true that some dogs actually seem to know it's time to show off a little? "Dogs really figure it out," he says. "The best of them know 'this is a show for which I've got to give a little extra.'"

Sometimes a judge approaches a dog and seems to make a noise to get the dog's attention. What's that about? "The way a dog looks at you" is very important, he says. Some breeds should have "a soft, melting, pleasing expression"; some should have an "extremely alert, hard-bitten expression"; and an afghan, a sight hound, should have "what's called the look of eagles — the dog is looking straight through you."

Why do judges look into dogs' mouths? "Each breed should have a kind of teeth and a type of bite," he says. Also, if there's a tooth missing, it's a fault.

And what's that hand action, where judges seem to be squaring-up the dog or patting it down? In heavily coated dogs, some things are not obvious to the eye, he says, and the judge may be checking muscle tone or confirming that the proportions — from, say, the last rib to the hip — meet the breed standard.

And then the final question. I wondered whether Murphy carries in pocket or pouch some instant-action items for the removal of unexpected doggie mung, fly-away hair or paw prints. As soon as my words fell out, I realized the ludicrousness of them.

These are animals that have been shampooed and blow-dried, combed and dabbed at for hours before greeting Murphy in the ring. The notion of their spreading around the kind of dog snorffle that smears the windows of my SUV and jeans or flinging around the oddly attracted-to-clothing wads of hair Jasper sets loose every spring is ridiculous beyond words.

"Well. I usually carry a handkerchief," he offered, politely.

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/pets/2010-02-02-pettalk03_ST_N.htm
Copyright © 2009 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc.