Did you know? 20 fun K-9 Fun Facts

Some Fun Facts..... 1. It takes 63 days for puppies to be born from the time of mating. 2. Puppies are born both deaf and blind.Their eyes begin to open between 10 and 14 days.They begin to hear soon after but it takes a while longer before they have complete sight and hearing. 3. Puppies begin getting their puppy teeth when they are about three weeks old.They're very sharp! 4. Puppies begin getting their adult teeth between four and seven months.They're very likely to chew on things during this period. 5. Dogs are thought to have descended from wolves in southeast Asia at least 14,000 years ago. 6. Some of the oldest breeds of dogs are the Afghan Hound, the Chow Chow, the Lhasa Apso, the Pekingese, the Shar Pei, the Shih Tzu, the Tibetan Terrier, the Saluki, the Basenji, the Akita Inu, the Shiba Inu, the Samoyed, the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute. 7. Most dogs have a double coat of hair -- an undercoat that provides insulation and an outer coat of guard hair. 8. There are no completely hypoallergenic dogs.All dogs have at least some hair that can attract dander and allergens.Some dogs and breeds attract less than others. 9. There are currently 74.8 million pet dogs in the United States.Some 44.8 million U.S. households own a dog. 10. Seventy-eight (78) percent of the owned dogs in the United States are spayed or neutered. 11. According to the AKC the most popular names for dogs are Lady and Bear. 12. The American Kennel Club recognizes 161 dog breeds in the United States.The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), recognizes over 400 breeds throughout the world. 13. The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed of dog. At a minimum, males should be 31 inches tall at the shoulder and 120 pounds.Females should be 28 inches tall at the shoulder and 90 pounds. 14. The heaviest dog is usually considered to be the Mastiff or the Saint Bernard.A healthy Mastiff or Saint Bernard -- not an overweight dog -- will typically weigh 180-200 pounds. 15. Larger breed dogs can be harder to handle because some do not even fit through an average dog door. 16. The world's fastest dog is probably the Greyhound.They can reach speeds of 45 miles per hour.However, Whippet fans claim that their dogs are faster over short distances, able to zig and zag better.Saluki afficionados claim that their dogs are better open-field hunters.All three breeds are extremely fast. 17. Contrary to popular belief, the Poodle did not originate in France.It was originally a German breed used for hunting, water retrieving and even herding.You can see the breed's similarity to other curly-coated herding breeds such as the Puli.Poodle coats will curl and even cord if allowed to grow out. 18. At one time the Collie was considered a vicious breed of dog, perhaps because the Scots who kept the dogs were considered a vicious people.It wasn't until Queen Victoria became a fan of the breed in the 19th century that Collies became popular with the public. 19. The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed of dog in the United States since 1990.The Lab is also the most popular dog breed in Great Britain. 20. Sighthounds, or gazehounds, are hounds that hunt by sighting their prey.They include the Afghan Hound, the Borzoi, the Greyhound, the Irish Wolfhound, the Italian Greyhound, the Salukia, the Scottish Deerhound and the Whippet.

Weds night Classes Jan 16

No class tonight due to the weather, they is a concern about ice and slushy roads. Class on Sat 9:30-10:30 am! See you then! Woof Shannon

Did Caesar Millan have to hang the husky?

Did Cesar Millan Have to Hang the Husky? By Marc Bekoff, Ph.D. on April 21, 2012 - 6:24am Because of what I do, I'm always getting emails about the latest information on animal cognition and animal emotions and also on animal abuse. I usually receive reports or videos of abuse in research laboratories, zoos, circuses, and rodeos or on factory farms but from time to time people ask me questions about dog training. Last year I received a video showing Cesar Millan (aka the "dog whisperer") hanging a husky who was ill-behaved. This treatment of a sentient being named Shadow sickened me and I soon discovered that many others also were horrified by this so-called "training" session. (For further discussion please see Mark Derr's Pack of Lies.) When I speak with dog trainers I mention this video and by and large most people agree that putting a noose around a dog's neck and yanking them off the ground and suspending them in air is unnecessarily cruel and abusive and that they would be really upset if this were done to their dog. So too would I. However, recently I was told by a few people that it was just fine to string up a dog who needed to be disciplined. I then asked them if they would do this to a child or another human being and they emphatically said "No, of course not." Well, then, why allow it to be done to a dog? It's also useful to ask if they would let someone do it to them before they did it or allowed it to be done to their or another dog? If not, why not? This is what a dog expert wrote to me about the stringing up of Shadow. "First, it looks to me like, Millan provokes and prolongs the attacks in order to string the dog up in such a way that he puts pressure on the carotid artery. Second, when he pins it with his hand, he definitely seems to put pressure on the carotid artery as well. If these observations are true, it's no wonder the dog is subdued. Makes me wonder whether that knuckle pinch also is aimed at the carotid?" If you have the courage to watch the video, you'll see that Shadow wasn't "merely" lifted off the ground. Indeed, Shadow was put in his place and this degree of trauma likely will have a long term effect as does any other abuse to which an individual is exposed, intentional (as in this case) or unintentional. We know that dogs and other animals suffer from long-term depression and PTSD after being traumatized and training techniques that cause trauma shouldn't be sanctioned and should be strongly opposed. I'm writing about Shadow because there simply has to be limits as to what is permissible when trying to get dogs to behave in acceptable ways. Stringing up dogs or other animals goes well beyond what I would accept and if I saw someone doing this, I'd call the police immediately. I imagine most people would do the same. If one thinks a dog deserves this sort of treatment then it would be useful to know why this is so and discuss how non-abusive techniques can be used instead of those that harm and intimidate. Many people who work with domestic and wild animals are using and continually developing training techniques based on positive reinforcement (see also) and so too should everyone who works with our best friends. Training must factor in the capacity for an individual to suffer and experience deep and enduring pain. As Mark Derr notes, "Properly treating aggression, phobias, anxiety and fears from the start can literally save time and money. Mr. Millan’s quick fix might make for good television and might even produce lasting results in some cases. But it flies in the face of what professional animal behaviorists — either trained and certified veterinarians or ethologists — have learned about normal and abnormal behavior in dogs." Quick-fix training techniques based on severe intimidation and various forms of psychological and physical abuse need to be removed from training protocols and our objections to these methods need to be louder than mere whispers behind closed doors. Shadow's saga, his very sad story, forces us to think about who we are, who they (other animals) are, and how we must treat them. Dogs expect us to treat them with dignity and respect, and when they become challenging and try our patience, we must never ever forget that they are sentient beings who thoroughly depend on our goodwill. It's a dirty double-cross to intentionally abuse them and commit them to a life of fear. It's a betrayal of their trust that we will always have their best interests in mind. It also demeans us. The hearts of our companion animals, like our own hearts, are fragile, so we must be gentle with them. Let's openly and graciously thank them for who they are, for their unfiltered love, and embrace their lessons in passion, compassion, empathy, devotion, respect, spirituality, and love. Surely, we will never have any regrets by doing so, and much pure joy will come our way as we clear the path for deep and rich reciprocal relationships based on immutable trust with our companions and all other beings. Elliot Katz, founder of In Defense of Animals, suggests we drop the word "training" and start using the word "teaching." Training often becomes synonymous with "breaking." Training should not mean breaking their fragile hearts.

Learn to Read you Dog

Featured Articles Fall 2012 for Happy Valley Animals We know dogs communicate with barks, whines, and other sounds. However, dogs use non-verbal communication more often, and a common form is “calming signals.” These signals help dogs maintain a healthy social connection to one another, diffuse stress or aggression, and avoid conflict. Dogs and puppies also use calming signals to communicate with people, including when they feel threatened or want to calm you down. For example, when you find a housebreaking accident and get upset, even though your puppy may not understand what he’s done wrong, he’ll “act guilty.” He’s not really guilty—using calming signals to show he intends no harm. Try to lesson the stress of the the moment. The common calming signals follow. Licking This signal is used often. The quick little lick on the nose is easier to see if you watch the dog from the front. It’s best seen if you can sit in peace and observe. Once you’ve learned to see the lick, you’ll also be able to see it while walking the dog. Sometimes it´s very quick—the tip of the tongue barely visible. But other dogs see, understand, and respond to it. Any signal is always returned with another. Most dogs turn away or show a turning of the head. The dog may turn its head slightly, turn the head completely to the side, or turn themelves completely around, their back and tail facing whoever the dog is calming. These are some signals you see most of the time in dogs. Play Bow This is a very common and well-known calming signal: going down with front legs in a bowing position. It can be an invitation to play if the dog is moving legs from side to side in a playful manner. Just as often, the dog is standing still while bowing and is using the signal to calm someone down. These signals often have double meanings and may be used in many different ways. Often the invitation to play is a calming signal in itself, because the dog is making a potentially dangerous situation less tense through diversion. Sniffing the Ground This is a frequently used signal; in groups of puppies you’ll see it a lot. You’ll see it when you and your dog are out walking and someone is approaching;, in places with a lot going on; in noisy places; or when the dog sees an unknown, intimidating object. Sniffing may be anything from moving the nose swiftly down toward the ground and back up again to sticking the nose to the ground and sniffing persistently for several minutes. Walking Slowly High speed will be seen as threatening to many dogs, and they might want to go in to try and stop the one who is running. This is partly a hunting behavior and is triggered by the sight of a running human or dog. If the one running is coming straight at the dog, it involves a threat and a defense mechanism sets in. Freezing This is what we call it when the dog is statue still while standing, sitting or laying down and remaining in that position. Sometimes they will divert their eyes to avoid eye contact as well. Sitting Down/Lifting One Paw Not seen as often, are dogs lifting their paw as a calming signal, but on a few occasions, it’s clearly been used to calm another dog. Sneezing You’ll see a dog sneeze persistently when nervous, super -excited, or encountering a stressful situation. Not as common. Sitting Down And even stronger signal is to sit down with the back turned towards someone. This also has a very calming effect. It’s often seen when one dog wants to calm another who is approaching too quickly. Dogs may also sit down with their backs turned against the owner when he or she sounds too strict or angry. Meet on a Curve Dogs should naturally meet each other on a curve, or approaching on the side, rather than meeting head on. It’s important to allow your dog to meet on a curve, on or off your leash. This allows for the greeting to be polite. HOW YOU CAN USE CALMING SIGNALS Another ideal time to use calming signals is when you are meeting a dog you don’t know. If a dog acts fearfully towards you, or is showing signs of stress, you can settle the dog by offering the same calming signals that dogs use for each other. First, slow down. Turning your head away and averting your gaze is an easy first signal to make. If the dog is still stressed, you can turn your entire body to the side, or even turn your back on the dog. If you act like you’re ignoring the dog, you’ll be showing calming signals, and the dog with be more likely to approach you. There is also the “walk through,” which is simply walking between two facing dogs or people. When two people or dogs face each other, it is perceived by another dog to be aggressive.. To maintain peace, the third dog will walk through. It’s often thought when dogs react with a walk through with humans, it’s based on jealousy of humans showing affection. What’s actually happening is that when humans face each other, say in a hug, it’s perceived to be possible aggression, and the dog feels a walk though is warranted.

West Nile Virus and Your Pet.... The Facts...

With West Nile virus spreading across the U.S., many pet owners have shared concern about their pet’s risk of infection. Most West Nile virus infections have been identified in wild birds and horses. Although the virus can infect dogs and cats, the risk of illness is very low. West Nile virus is an arthropod-borne virus that causes encephalitis (swelling of the brain). The virus is transmitted by blood-feeding insects such as mosquitoes. West Nile virus is a rare disease that spreads through mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on birds that are carrying the virus. Infected mosquitoes may then transmit the virus to humans and other animals. The virus cannot be transmitted directly between animals or from animals to people. At risk The risk West Nile virus poses to pets is very small. Elderly and young dogs, and those with compromised immune systems could be at higher risk. Pets have been exposed, but they have not fallen ill in great numbers. Cases of infection causing disease in pets are very rare and likely only in immunocompromised animals. Cats may become ill with the virus, but dogs seem to be relatively resistant to developing clinical illness as a result of exposure to West Nile. Symptoms Symptoms of the virus in infected dogs are similar to signs exhibited by horses and include depression, decreased appetite, difficulty walking, tremors, abnormal head posture, circling and convulsions. It is very important to contact your veterinarian if your pet shows any of these signs. There is currently no vaccine available for dogs and cats. The best way to prevent your pet from contracting the virus is to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Prevention Keep pets indoors during early morning and evening hours to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and possible exposure. Prevent your pet from coming into contact with dead birds or squirrels that may have been infected with the virus. Only use mosquito repellent that is approved for use in pets to prevent bites. Check the label to determine if the product is safe for pets, or ask your veterinarian for a recommendation. Many insect repellents that are designed for human use contain a chemical that can cause serious illness in pets. In the event that pesticides are sprayed in your area, make sure to keep pets indoors during spraying.

Toys That Can Kill Your Dog

Last night at agility class, a vet, who is a fellow agility student was telling us about a case she had this week. The dog ate a child's teddy bear and was very sick. When she opened the dog up to remove what she thought was an intestinal obstruction she found a huge gelatin type mess inside and the dogs intestines were black and the tissue dead. The dog will die no surgery can fix him up there was no living intestine left from stomach to colon. This was not an obstruction. .... so she called the manufacturer of the Teddy Bear on a quest to find out what the gel was and what killed the dog. Turns out the stuffing in children's toys contains ingredients for flame retardants and mite control! It is designed to become a gel. It is highly toxic. Now you would think a child's toy would be safe because it is for children, but they don't expect a child to eat the stuffing of the toys... huummmm that seems a bit scary too. But we all know dogs demolish stuffed toys. So do not give or buy your dog any children's stuffed animals... some people get them at goodwill etc. The vet will be posting a warning and story and I will send any other facts as needed and as I learn more. Maybe some children's toys do not have this ingredient, but better to be safe then sorry. So meanwhile, make sure all your dog toys are for dogs. Please pass this on... it is a horrible death she described and one that can be avoided. From the  Beauceron Club UK

POSTPONED DATE TBA Animal Communication Workshop led by Dawn Allen

Leading the Way is Proud to host Animal Communication Workshop led by Dawn Allen held on POSTPONDED! DATE. TBA. from  11:30-5:30 refreshments provided Space is limited, and filling fast! Register today at leadingthewaydogtraining@yahoo.com  Cost is $90 pre register/At the door $100 check, cash or credit card  Learn to understand your animal friends on a deep emotional level.  Discover new ways to enjoy and love your animals.  This seminar will help you realize your natural ability to communicate telepathically with all creatures.  You will learn how to better understand animal companions, gaining insight into their behavior, health, and happiness. The seminar includes specific exercises and meditations geared towards opening your senses and your heart.  Participants bring photographs of their animals; and they are our teachers (along with live animals on-site). I highly recommend attending this workshop.  Even if you are not confident with your telepathic propensity, you will gain closeness and understanding with your animals.  Participants often report enthusiastic greetings from their animals when they return home after attending the workshop.  The animals love the fact that you try to understand them!

Pet Care Workshop Sunday June 10th 1:00-2:30!

Pet Care Seminar JUNE10  1:00-2:30pm, light refreshments served. Come one... Come all... Its Pet Safety & Medical information class.... Its a First Aid, Medical advice, emergency care, oh my gosh care and I'm not sure what to do care.... Along with Is this a real emergency? how to give pills, drops, creams and more.... With time for you Q&A! This jam packed seminar is ideal for all owners (NO DOGS PLEASE) during this 1.5 session a variety of topics will be covered. Please feel welcome to bring friends and family. Please no children unless they can sit and enjoy the workshop. This Pet Care Seminar is taught by Kristen Neal; Kristin is a veterinary technician with experience and training in small and large animal wellness and small animal surgery. She is currently working as an anesthesia tech in the community spay/neuter clinic at Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society in Springfield, MA. Her veterinary passions are humane work and anything else that improves our pets' quality of life. Her personal loves are riding and training horses, teaching people, the great outdoors, and of course, training, playing with, and loving dogs! Held At Leading the Way, 18 Chestnut St Florence, Ma 01062 cost: just $5.00

Update on the Pet Food Recall... Please share with friends

Major Brand Pet Foods Recalled Due To Salmonella On May 4, 2012, Diamond Pet Foods expanded a pet food recall due to possible salmonella contamination.  More than a dozen people in several states may have been infected due to contact with contaminated pet food.   Affected foods include specific lots of dry dog and cat food branded as: Diamond Pet Food Kirkland Signature (Costco brand) Natural Balance Wellness (WelPet LLC) Canidae Apex Pet Foods Solid Gold Health Products For Pets, Inc. These foods were widely distributed in the U.S. and Canada. You can check your pet food to see if it has been recalled.  Affected bags of food have best-before dates between December 9, 2012, and April 7, 2013.   Recalled foods include: ·  Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul ·  Country Value ·  Diamond ·  Diamond Naturals ·  Premium Edge ·  Professional ·  4Health ·  Taste of the Wild ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Lamb ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Chicken ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Mature Dog Chicken ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Dog Formulated with Chicken &    Vegetables ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula ·  Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Cat Formula ·  Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Formula for Dogs ·  Wellness Complete Health® Super5Mix® Large Breed Puppy ·  Canidae Dog, All Life Stages ·  Canidae Dog, Chicken Meal & Rice ·  Canidae Dog, Lamb Meal & Rice ·  Canidae Dog, Platinum ·  Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog ·  Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog ·  Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog ·  Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog ·  Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Large Breed Bites ·  Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Small Breed Bites ·   WolfCub Large Breed Puppy Food ·  Solid Gold WolfKing Large Breed Adult Dog Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans.  Symptoms may include decreased appetite, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain.  Pets and people who carry the disease can infect others, so if you or your pet are experiencing symptoms and you have purchased and used the affected dog food, take all due precaution and see a doctor and/or veterinarian.  You can prevent spread of the disease by washing your hands thoroughly and following physician instructions. If you have purchased one of the recalled pet foods, you should immediately stop feeding it to your animals, and contact the place you purchased the pet food from - refunds may be available.  For complete information, visit the Diamond Pet Foods recall page, the Costco pet product recall pages, the Natural Balance recall page, the Wellness recall page, the Canidae recall page, the Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, Inc. recall page, or the FDA's recall page, which has information on multiple brands in the Animal Health section.  The CDC also has information on documented salmonella contamination.

Pet Food Recalls May 2012

Update on the Pet Food Recalls! 2012 Recalls and Safety Alerts May 07, 2012 Wellpet LLC Voluntarily Recalls One Recipe Of Dry Dog Food Due To Salmonella At Diamond Pet Foods' Facility Salmonella May 05, 2012 UPDATED: CORRECT PRODUCTION CODE INFORMATION Canidae Pet Foods Initiates Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Food Due to the Potential for Salmonella Salmonella May 05, 2012 UPDATED: CORRECT PRODUCTION CODE INFORMATION Diamond Pet Foods Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Food Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination Salmonella May 04, 2012 Apex Pet Foods Initiates Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Food Due to the Potential for Salmonella - No Pet or Human Illnesses have been Reported Associated With Apex Dog Food Salmonella May 04, 2012 Natural Balance Pet Foods Initiates Voluntary Recall of Certain Dry Pet Food Due to the Potential for Salmonella Contamination Salmonella April 30, 2012 Kaytee Recalls Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat and Hamster Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk Salmonella April 30, 2012 Diamond Pet Foods Expands Voluntary Recall to Include Diamond Puppy Formula due to Possible Salmonella Contamination Salmonella April 26, 2012 Diamond Pet Foods Expands Voluntary Recall of One Production Run of Dry Dog Food Due to a Potential Health Risk Recall is limited to one formula of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul distributed to 10 states Salmonella

Rosemary and seizures is there a connection..??

ROSEMARY EXTRACT = PET FOOD NEUROTOXIN   Does your new “natural” cat or dog food contain herbs such as rosemary extract, a neurotoxin that can cause neurological problems, seizures and anemia?   When Veterinarians reported that Premium Edge caused neurological problems in cats, testing found that one batch lacked Vitamin B1 (thiamine) but the real culprit in cat and dog foods may be rosemary extract, a natural neurotoxin. Adverse reactions, including seizures, can show up soon after ingestion but symptoms may also be delayed which complicates accurate diagnosis.   Nel Liquorman, Health Editor / © TheDogPress 03|12|10 - There is growing concern since pet food companies began adding rosemary extracts.  Very few veterinarians are aware that rosemary or other herbs present a danger.  Many vets don’t even realize that herbs have become a popular pet food ingredient.   When changes are made to existing recipes, new ingredients are simply added to the label listing.   According to Mombu.com/medicine, "ROSEMARY EXTRACT: Flavoring. PAE: illness. An ounce can cause death" (PAE indicates potential adverse affects).  We already know that rosemary extract can cause seizures in cats and small dogs, so it is possible that large dogs will also experience adverse effects depending on the ratio ingested.  Sadly, a vet may begin treatment for epilepsy without ever suspecting the real cause for seizures.  While Phenobarbital will control or reduce seizures, the animal continues to consume the ingredient and neurological damage continues.   Even though FDA considers most herbs GRAS (generally regarded as safe) Pet food companies should research any herbal extract intended for a pet food recipe. Holistic practitioners warn that herbal extracts, such as rosemary, sage, thyme, wormwood, dill, and mint, may be “mind-stimulating and “contributors to seizures” and note, they are referring to conditions brought about when these substances are ingested by susceptible humans, not by a dog or cat only a fraction of a human’s weight. When “Natural” became a marketing buzzword in pet food after the 2007 melamine disaster many cat and dog food makers capitalized on the “natural food” concept by adding herbs, including rosemary extract, to their foods. Notably, holistic practitioners refer to herbal extracts such as rosemary, sage, thyme, wormwood, dill, and mint, as mind-stimulating contributors to seizures. While a sprinkling of rosemary may be a healthy, delightful addition to spaghetti sauce, in certain forms, herbs can be anything but “healthy.” According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (1) rosemary can interact with supplements, medications, and even other herbs. Most references for herbal use carry the caveat “herbal extracts should be used under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.” There have been reports of allergic reactions due to their volatile oil content. Reactions in humans include vomiting, spasms, coma and fluid in the lungs. Obviously the effect on a smaller animal such as a dog or cat could be much greater. European researchers found that rosemary interferes with absorption of iron in the diet, resulting in anemia in humans. When pets are diagnosed with anemia, the cause is commonly diagnosed as flea bites. Few vets would relate anemia to rosemary extract in pet food so the anemic dog or cat is treated for fleas with a regime of dipping or oral flea prevention which may further affect the immune system. UMMC states that rosemary oil (extract) should never be taken orally, so it makes no sense to add it to a pet food recipe. Their experts also said “Because rosemary has not been studied in children, it is not recommended for medicinal use in those under age 18.” That caution was for occasional medicinal use but when cat or dog foods contain rosemary extract, pets are ingesting it on a daily basis for months or years! In addition to problems associated with rosemary in pet foods, there are many other questionable substances, such as soy products, newly created fiber additives (prebiotics), live bacteria (probiotics), waste products such as soybean hulls, and even dangerous levels of fluoride in many cat and dog foods. The only good pet food is one that has been carefully researched!   http://www.thedogpress.com/DogFood/Rosemary-Neurotoxin-10032_Liquorman.asp #116125   Reference Article Link:  (1) http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/rosemary-000271.htm

Two Great workshops! One weekend!

Two great workshops in one weekend!

First!----

Sat: APRIL 14, 2012 Time: 12-5pm

Leading the Way is excited to hosting a Tellington TTouch Body Workshop

With Sally Morgan Tellington TTouch Instructor, this workshop will be April 14 from 12-5pm. SPACE is limited to just 12 handlers. Audit space available Cost: Dog Handler $50. Audit (no dog) just $15

To register simply send a response to THIS email with your contact info.

Don't miss this GREAT workshop!

T-Touch....

CAN HELP SHY DOGS

GREAT FOR RECENTLY RESCUED DOGS

FOR ALL AGES AND ALL STAGES

GREAT FOR PUPPIES

WONDERFUL TO WORK OF FEARS/PHOBIAS

Tellington TTouch Bodywork uses a combination of circles, slides and lifts to increase awareness and sensation, reduce stress and relax tension held in the body.

This promotes a sense of well being that allows the body to function to it's full potential in the healing process.

While bodywork may look like massage, it is usually gentler, with a softer touch and works on the nervous system rather than the muscles. By clearing blockages cause by tension and stress, we can send messages to the brain, allowing the animals to make conscious choices in behaviour.

As the body comes into balance via touches and groundwork exercise, the mind and emotions also find their balance!

TTouch uses non-habitual movements to activate unused neurological pathways to the brain. This indeed turns uncooperative animals into willing partners. While TTouch is used to alleviate many problems, it is also just a great way to connect and bond with your pet.

Tellington TTouch is a gentle and unique method of working with both health and behavioral problems in animals.

It includes both bodywork and movement exercises that positively influence behavior, performance, co-ordination, balance and well-being, while deepening understanding and the relationship between humans and animals.

These, non-invasive touches & exercises influence habitual patterns of tension and posture by giving new information to the nervous system. As a result, animals relax and learn to make better choices.

Developed by internationally known animal expert, Linda Tellington-Jones, TTouch is based on cooperation and understanding rather than dominance. These revolutionary techniques promote optimal performance and health without fear or force

TTouch ™ - the Tellington-Touch - is a method based on circular movements of the fingers and hands all over the body. The intent of the TTouch is to activate the function of the cells and awaken cellular intelligence - a little like "turning on the electric lights of the body." The TTouch is done on the entire body, and each circular TTouch is complete within itself. Therefore it is not necessary to understand anatomy to be successful in speeding up the healing of injuries or ailments, or changing undesirable habits or behavior.

Using a combination of specific touches, lifts, and movement exercises, TTouch helps to release tension and increase body awareness. This allows the animal to be handled without provoking typical fear responses. The animal can then more easily learn new and more appropriate behaviors. By using the TTouch and a variety of other tools, like the Confidence Course, you can assist the animal in experiencing self-confidence in previously frightening situations. Even the most difficult problems are often eliminated. You can also learn how to apply the Tellington TTouch to assist with recovery from illness or injury, or just enhance the quality of your animal's life.

This gentle method is currently being used by animal owners, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, zoo personnel and shelter workers in several countries. There are many certified practitioners teaching TTouch around the world who can show you how to help you with your dog, cat or other pet.

2 WHEN WOULD ONE USE THE TELLINGTON TTOUCH?

For Improving behaviour or temperament

For an older animal that is in pain [i.e. arthritis, hip dysplasia, etc.]

For mobility problems

To Help injuries and surgery to heal more quickly

To deepen the bond between you and your pet

To improve you pet’s confidence, balance, agility or performance

If your animal is fearful of thunderstorms and loud noises

If your animal is getting near the end of it's life and you'd like to do something to alleviate the pain and help in the passing.

About Sally Morgan, she is:

Licensed Physical Therapist, Certified CranioSacral therapy techniques, Certified Upledger teaching assistant, Presenter CST Intro/Overview/ShareCare Instructor for Equine and Small Animals CST classes Reiki Master TTEAM/TTouch Practitioner (Equine & Companion Animal) NARHA/Centered Riding/Mass. Riding Licenses FEI level dressage trainer/instructor

**********2nd workshop----APRIL 15th!********************

Canine Massage:

Discover the benefits and bonding of canine massage. Learn different strokes, pressure pionts, etc. Canine massage benifits your dog and your partnerhip with him in so many ways. Its benifits the immune system, helps heal and prevent injuries. This jam packed class will improve your relationship with your dog. Along with Acupressure and of techniques. This relaxing class teaches both beginning and advanced techniques. Ideal for all ages of dogs! Especially beneficial to shy and older dogs.

Your dog not comfortable, we have demo dog available to learn with to take the practice home to your fur-baby!

We are excited to welcome Linda Jackson back for another great workshop!

April 15 11:30-1:30, light snacks provided. FREE! our gift to you. Limited to 20 handlers. accepting donations to for Dakin & NSPCA

Private massage sessions will also be available after the workshop for a small fee for both dogs and CHAIR massages for the humans. Just $15 for 15 glorious minutes of pure relaxation.

Linda Jackson, is a licensed acupuncturist with Master’s Degrees in both Education & Oriental Medicine. At The Centre for Acupuncture in Gt. Barrington, MA., she offers services in acupuncture, massage, herbal medicine to both people and their dogs. She also offers lifestyle coaching in exercise such as yoga & Qi Gong, meditation, breath and nutrition according to Oriental Medicine principles.

Linda has been in the holistic health field for over 30 years with an extensive background in holistic health, including Kripalu Center in Lenox, MA where she was a founding member, developer and instructor of programs in yoga, massage and health.

Linda has published, with co-author Jody Chiquoine, a popular book, "A Dog Lover’s Guide to Canine Massage". This book is a thorough workbook for dog lover’s to learn massage and stretching for their canine companions to keep them healthy and stress free. This book is a must for every dog owner and dog lover.

Emergencies happen when we least expect it, and anesthesia could be a necessary component required to treat your pet. Treatment recommendations your veterinarian makes could also include dental care involving anesthesia. You may elect to neuter or spay your pet. Anesthesia will be required. Repair of broken bones and retrieval of foreign material from your pet’s stomach will require anesthesia. There are benefits and, of course, there are risks. How can you make an informed decision without information? You can’t. So, let’s change that now.

If there is a time your pet requires anesthesia during a surgical procedure, your veterinarian will fully examine your pet. During the examination, your doctor will check your pet’s organs and vital functions to ensure overall health and wellness to accept the anesthesia and the planned surgery itself. Your doctor will report to you the outcome of the exam and help you complete all treatment recommended.

Anxious About Anesthesia by Sheilah Robertson helps educate pet owners about the facts and risks of anesthesia in the veterinary operating room. Robertson advises that blood tests before a procedure help your veterinarian “choose the right anesthetic drugs” for your pet. Dr. Robertson also explains that if your veterinarian is concerned about your pet’s heart or lungs, more tests may be needed.” Your doctor will “talk with you about whether it’s safe for your pet to undergo anesthesia.”

Delaying care or failing to treat your pet because anesthesia is involved may cause your pet some health complications or a decline in current health. Your veterinarian is concerned for your pet, too. The doctor you work with will take many steps before, during and after your pet’s surgery to ensure a positive outcome. Keeping up with your pet’s health, activity levels, knowing current lab results and accurately predicting how your pet will react to the anesthesia are all part of your veterinarian’s job.

Recovery time after your pet receives anesthesia will be important. Your veterinarian and surgical staff will monitor your pet closely. They will also require that your pet remain with them until your pet is awake and fairly alert. You will want to support your doctor’s requirement that your pet be watched vigilantly after a surgical procedure involving the use of anesthesia.

If your pet is obese, a senior or a smaller animal your veterinarian will have additional considerations. These pets are carefully evaluated before a surgery and well guarded after it. Keeping your pet healthy and well includes maintaining an appropriate weight. Pet obesity and surgery can require your pet’s vital organs to work even harder than normal. Senior pets may have an unknown health condition that becomes known during the surgery. That condition may interrupt speedy healing that would otherwise occur. Smaller animals are just that – smaller. A small pet can become colder during a procedure involving anesthesia so will need extra attention.

Drugs used during the giving of anesthesia to pets are monitored and recorded for accuracy and proper dosage. Your veterinarian will take careful note of your pet’s weight and health status before using anesthesia. Your doctor will be careful to give your pet only the amount needed and nothing more.

When your pet needs anesthesia ask your veterinarian to answer your questions before the procedure. Let your doctor know you’re concerned about your pet and want its health restored. Apprehensive pet-parents help veterinarians stay alert and tuned in during surgical procedures. Your vet will always work with you for your pet’s best health. You’re a team and you both want your pet to “win.”

The pet product you are using protects you pets from? Be sure...

Topical Confusion: Are You Really Protecting Your Pet?

Dr. Ernie Ward

Last week I had to deliver some bad news to a pet parent: her dog had heartworm disease. “Impossible!” she shrieked. “I give him his medication each month.” I reviewed the fact that we hadn’t dispensed nor written a prescription for her dog’s heartworm preventive in over two years. “I don’t buy it from you. I buy it at the store.” She had made a fatal mistake for her dog in an attempt to save a few bucks. She was buying the wrong preventive.

First of all, I didn’t fault her for trying to save money. We all need to save wherever and whenever we can these days. Where she, and millions like her, went wrong is not involving their veterinarian. This lady was administering a topical flea preventive incorrectly believing it protected against deadly heartworm disease. A big mistake that may cost her dog its life.

This spring you’ll be inundated with a plethora of products promising protection for your pets from fleas and ticks. What they’re not protecting your dogs and cats against is heartworm disease. Heartworm disease is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are most susceptible but other species, including humans, can be accidentally infected with heartworm larvae. In our area every dog and cat, even if they live indoors, needs to be protected year-round (Remember those wonderful 70-degree days back in December and January? The mosquitoes do.).

If you bought a preventive without a prescription you’re not protecting against heartworm. The drugs that prevent heartworm are prescription medications governed by the FDA as opposed to topical flea and tick preparations regulated by the EPA. This is an important distinction because heartworm meds are subject to more stringent testing and safety oversight than flea treatments. This is why the EPA has begun issuing “black box” warnings on topical flea and tick solutions; there were so many reported side effects and reactions in 2010 and 2011.

Back to the saving money part. Most vets, including me, have made great efforts to keep heartworm preventives affordable. How much do mine cost, you ask? Whatever you can buy it for from the big online pet sites. It’s been that way since 1999 (when the economy was much better). I’ve always been committed to providing affordable preventive pet healthcare. That may not always be the best business sense, but it always seems to me like the right thing to do. Whenever clients call and say they can buy preventives cheaper elsewhere, we find they haven’t asked how much ours cost. If you’re thinking of buying pet supplies online, I ask you to consider spending your money locally. Your vet employs neighbors, church members and valuable constituents of Brunswick County. If your vet’s price is less than five dollars difference, help our local economy instead of New York, Florida, or California. Unemployment in our area tops 13 percent; we’re all part of the solution.

Make sure you’re protecting your dogs and cats properly this year. And help our local economy recover. Lord knows, we need everyone’s help.

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Diamond Pet Foods Voluntarily Recall

Diamond Pet Foods Voluntarily Recalls Limited Number of
Dry Dog Food Bags Due to a Potential Health Risk
Recall is limited to one formula of Diamond Naturals distributed to 12 states; no illnesses reported

Consumer Contact: 800-442-0402
Media Contact: 816-255-1974

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 05, 2012

Diamond Pet Foods is voluntarily recalling Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice. This is being done as a precautionary measure, as the product has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. No illnesses have been reported and no other Diamond manufactured products are affected.

Individuals handling dry pet food can become infected with salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product, Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice, was distributed to customers located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia, who may have further distributed the product to other states, through pet food channels.

Product Name Bag Size Production Code & “Best Before” Code

Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice 6lb DLR0101D3XALW Best Before 04 Jan 2013

Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice 20lb DLR0101C31XAG Best Before 03 Jan 2013

Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice 40lb DLR0101C31XMF Best Before 03 Jan 2013

Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice 40lb DLR0101C31XAG Best Before 03 Jan 2013

Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice 40lb DLR0101D32XMS Best Before 04 Jan 2013

Consumers who have purchased the Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice with the specific production and “Best Before” codes should discontinue feeding the product and discard it.

At Diamond Pet Foods, the safety of our products is our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience this recall may have caused. For further information or to obtain a product refund please call us at 800-442-0402 or visit www.diamondpet.com.