Pilots N Paws

Laura Moss posted an article on the website, www.mnn.com, about the Pilots N Paws program. This is a program where pilots volunteer their time and resources to rescue animals so they can be located in a forever home.

Photo courtesy of Pilots N Paws


Pilots N Paws, is an S.C. based nonprofit organization and is the brainstorm of animal lover Debi Boies and pilot Jon Wehrenberg. It was started in 2008 when they rescued a Doberman pinscher from a Florida shelter. Today, this organization consists of 3,000 pilots and over 12,000 volunteers taking time to rescue, organize transportation and find foster homes for cats, dogs and other animals. Their efforts have resulted in over 12,000 animals finding forever homes.

Kathleen Quinn, executive director of Pilots N Paws, states there is no shortage of animals that need a home or of people willing to give them a home. The largest problem is getting them from one destination to the other. The transporting of the animals is the basis for the Pilots N Paws program.

The organization has flown a menagerie of animals from snakes to donkeys. The organization mostly flies dogs that come from shelters or that are facing retirement. Dogs used in the military are not guaranteed a plane ride home when their tour of duty comes to an end. In the year 2010, they enlisted the assistance of NAVY SEALs in Afghanistan to fly an injured Steppe eagle to a sanctuary in New York. Many of the dogs they rescue become service animals.

After a rescuer has made a post on the Pilots N Paws forum, volunteer pilots will receive an e-mail from the Pilots N Paws forum about an animal that needs to be rescued if the location falls within his flying radius. This is no easy task, pilots are often limited to 250 miles for one leg, and not all transports can be direct flights. In some cases, a volunteer will drive a leg of the trip and another pilot will complete the rescue.

　

　

　

　

　

Protection for Our Pets

An article entitled, “Bitterant Placed in Antifreeze to Protect Pets” written by RJ appeared on the site:  www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/ars/article/Bitterant-placed-in-antifreeze-to-protect-pets and I felt it was worth passing along.  All antifreeze and engine coolant manufactured for sale in the United States for the purchase by consumers will contain a bitter flavoring agent to deter pets from wanting to lap it up.   

He states that the Consumer Specialty Products Association (CSPA) along with the Humane Society Legislative Fund has passed laws in seventeen sates to require the addition of denatonium benzoate.    Phil Klein, executive vice president, legislative and public affairs for CSPA says that all 50 states where antifreeze and engine coolant are manufactured are placing the bitterant in their products.  

I know that animals are curious and will eat about anything, but I didn’t realize that over 10,000 animals are being poisoned each year from ingesting ethylene glycol.  The reason animals will lick the antifreeze is because it smells and tastes sweet.  It only takes one teaspoon of antifreeze or engine coolant to kill an average-sized cat. 

Manufactures can place all the warning labels they want on their products, but it animals owners don’t take the necessary precautions and act responsible poisonings will continue to happen.  Owning pets is an investment in time, money and requires responsible actions on the owner’s part.  Our pets cannot read nor can they detect that just because something smells and tastes good it isn’t good for their health and well being. 

Dogs rely on their sense of smell to sniff out wild birds for their human hunting companion and are even being trained to sniff out 100 year old bones.  A dog’s sense of smell if so keenly developed that being able to locate a sweet smelling poison such as antifreeze doesn’t surprise me.   Keep all poisons up high enough that your dog cannot jump up and knock it down.  If you happen to spill some on the garage floor clean it immediately.  Sand or cat litter works very well to absorb all the liquid and then it can be easily swept up and thrown away.   

Keeping our pets safe and happy is a priority at www.caninecratestore.com ; I invite you to visit our store and find the crate that is perfect for your pet.

Heard of Black Friday? How About Black Fur-day?

FREE KIBBLE is a website where people can donate food to the dogs and cats in animal shelters. Today, there was an article about "Black Fur Day" and I wanted to share it with my friends. You can read the entire article HERE.

Quote from the article, "Black :Fur Day" Special Draw Lines at Animal Shelters": "The Humane Society of Central Texas reduced rates by half during their inaugural Black Friday promotion, attracting line of people on a typically slow day of the year. Another shelter, operated by the Animal Welfare League in Chicago Ridge, offered a second cat for free in addition to discounts on normal adoption fees. In Montana, Great Falls animal Shelter provided free adoptions when a donor agreed to cover all of the costs, such as vaccinations and licensing. Similar deal could be found in cities throughout the country, with some shelters reporting record numbers of adoptions for a single day." Posted Dec 13, 2012 by August Dombrow


What a wonderful way to help our pet who have no place to go. Remember to use caution if you are considering pet adoption to be sure that you are fully aware of all the responsibility that goes along with having an animal as part of your family.  They are very cute and lovable when they are small, but keep in mind that they will mature and lose some of the cuteness. Sometimes, the little tricks they pull when they are young become a source of irritation later on.  Be sure that you have pet proofed your home and that you have included your entire family, including other pets, with the process of adoption. If you have another pet that the new one will be living with, take it with you to the animal shelter and introduce them. It is best to find out if they will get along right from the get-go.

We should all be aware of the additional budgeting that will need to take place in order to properly take care of the new addition to our family. Include in your budget food, treats and toys, kitty litter, etc., veterinarian visits for well-ness checks, as well a home or crate.  They need to have a place that is their own where they can claim their territory and feel safe and secure.

Happy Holidays from Canine Crate Store!

"The Blessing of the Animals"

 

Today, October 4,  is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi and has been set aside for “The Blessing of Animals”.  Many people will be lining up at their church with their favorite pet by their side to have it blessed by the priest.  What a wonderful feeling it is to have your furry friend blessed with good health.  There are many animals in this world of ours that do not have good health, a nice warm place to nestle down for the night or a companion who loves them and sees that they are well fed.   

Since we cannot provide for every animal the love, protection and security they deserve; we can do our best to see that the special ones we have chosen to care for are safe and secure.  Today and everyday take good care of your pet and see that he is protected from the outside forces of nature. There are many good and effective ways to keep your pet safe.  The larger pets requiring outdoor containment systems give the owner options from various sized kennels, tracking collars, to electric fence systems.  Smaller pets which are kept inside need a crate designed to accommodate their particular built.  You want to be sure that he can stand up and turn around in it with ease.   

For such an occasion as “The Blessing of Animals” where many pets will be brought together, please have the little ones in an appropriate carrier. A lightweight carrier is a necessity while standing in line and will provide the safety and security your pet deserves.  They offer protection from the weather at the same time providing plenty of ventilation and allow your pet freedom of movement without being traumatized by the other animals.  Pet Carriers can be very stylish and if made of durable quilted nylon material they will last a long time.  Look for a carrier that has top and side entry doors which make for easy loading and unloading of your pet. 

Make today a special day for your pet and give him extra love.  They deserve and have earned the right to special attention for the unconditional love and devotion they give us every day. Keep your furry friend in a kennel or crate that is clean and properly suited to his needs.  It is my prayer that your devoted companions have good health throughout the coming year. 

Crates are Great Training Tools for Your Dog

We know that our dogs have been found to improve the immune system and reduce blood pressure as well as other health benefits. Canines have been trained to assist the blind, help with the rescue of trapped individuals, sniff out drugs; and work with the law enforcement to curb crime. Another idea has been presented and that is to increase your child’s language skills by reading to the family pet.

A dog crate can be a great tool in training your dog to be patient. What better way to teach your dog to sit in one place for a short period of time than in his kennel with a small child sitting near by reading him a story. Learning to read without being embarrassed about how you pronounce a word or if you miss a page makes learning exciting and fun for a child. It promotes self esteem and makes the child feel important and that he is in control. It also gives parents a break, they know where the dog is and they can hear where the child is. Putting this into practice everyday; teaches the dog patience, builds your child’s self-esteem and thus benefits the whole family.

Studies have shown that using dogs as reading partners for children will increase their language studies and improve their report card. I quote, “Dogs not only help children learn to read, they help children learn to love reading” says Michael Amini coauthor with his wife, Linda, of the children’s book, Shellie, the Magical dog (www.shellietremagicaldog.com). “And that’s true for children with and without learning disabilities.”

PAWSitive Readers, a Minnesota pilot program to help children to read found that dogs helped 10 out of 14 grade-school children to increase their reading skills by one grade level. Across the coast at the University of California a study of children who read to their family dog improved their reading skills by an average of 12 percent.

Crate or kennel time can be fun for the dog and a Win-win situation for the entire family. Your dog will learn to have patience and discipline while your child steps into a world where schoolwork becomes fun. Most children like to play teacher and what better way than to have a loving companion who enjoys the sound of a calm voice telling them a story.

Dogs are excellent listeners since they are unconditional in their love and nonjudgmental; but best of all they will not laugh if and when we make a mistake. If you let it become a ritual to have the dog go to his kennel for reading time; there will be no need to shut the door as he will look forward to the one on one time.

GREEN PUG RECYCLES! and Changes Lightbulb, Carpools...

Take Your Dog or Pet To Work

Dogs have been going to work with their masters since the beginning of time.  The sheep herder, the farmer and the dairyman have been pictured with a dog by their side.  It is not surprise that we are reverting back to ancient times and making it possible to have our canine companion along side us in the workplace.  “A 2006 survey from The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA) reports that nearly one in five American companies allows pets in the workplace. (Melissa Hincha-Ownby”) The following ten companies have a policy in place where their employees are allowed to bring their pet to work: (see http://www.freekibble.com/)

1. Ben & Jerry's 
2. Google 
3. Cliff Bar
4. Replacements, Ltd.
5. FrameSniper
6. P & G Pet Care
7. Autodesk
8. Build-A-Bear Workshop
9. Klutz
10. Wonderlane 

Why they have done this is simple.  It increases that almighty bottom line!  Employees are always wanting more benefits and having their pet at work is a plus that allows them to be happier in the workplace.  Employers have recognized and known for a long time that a happy employee is more productive and has a lower absenteeism rate.  Dogs in the workplace tend to increase morale and improve relationships between co-workers creating more trust.  What better way to begin a conversation than to pet your dog behind the ears and let others notice his happily wagging tail.  Not many people can resist the loving nature and the natural antics of a dog without making a comment.  The wet touch of a bulldogs nose on your fellow employees arm is also a conversation startle.

A study conducted by Central Michigan University revealed that dogs in the workplace can lead to more trust between co-workers and likewise that leads to more collaboration among team members.  

Heather's Canine Cooler® Dog Bed

Here's my Black Lab, Heather, enjoying a nice day on her Canine Cooler® Dog Bed.  Granted, it is on top of a picnic table on our patio, but hey, she began enjoying the extra sun it received during the winter, and now she enjoys the shade now that it is warming up.  I love these beds.  Whether you have a pet with arthritis, or other similar conditions, an aging pet, or just a happy healthy dog like Heather, I recommend one of these beds.  They are easy to use, use no electricity, are non-toxic, and will keep your pet cool during the warmer months to come.

Zinger Aluminum Dog Crates

When purchasing a crate for your dog, you want one that will last and that will hold up under rough and tumble circumstances. Zinger Deluxe Aluminum Dog Crates are lightweight and offer the strength of steel at one third the weight. These crates are built sturdy and will not crack or bend when exposed to the elements or stress. Zinger crates have been built to last a lifetime.

Whether you need a crate to accommodate a small dog or an extra large dog, we have a crate that will fulfill your need. Zinger crates come in small (Deluxe 3000), medium (Deluxe 400) or large (Deluxe 5000). They weight from 29 pounds to 49 pounds and can easily be handled by one person with little effort. A tough finish has been put on the crates as has been purposely manufactured this way so it will not rub off onto the coat of your dog.

One feature of this crate that I really like is the lockable slam latch. The doors are flush mounted and for added security can be keyed so they can be locked if you need to leave the area. This safety feature prevents someone from unlocking the crate and letting your dog loose or picking him up and walking off with him. The unique design of these crates allow for plenty of ventilation so there is no worry about him suffocating while enclosed.

When traveling with your dog by air you can rest assured that he will be safe and have plenty of space for air flow by installing “Airline Rails” to the crate. Because they are constructed of strong aluminum they will not bust or break during rough handling or the shifting of cargo loads during flight. Zinger crates have a modular design that allows them to be placed side by side or stacked one atop another. This feature is great when you have several animals to care for. They work well in dog shelters, kennels and zoo’s where many animals are kept in a designated area.

Have a stubborn dog that can escape from just about any crate?  No need to worry.  The Zinger Professional Dog Crates are even stronger.  With a reinforced door and more extras than the Deluxe model, they are designed for the craftiest of dogs. 

In the few months that I have carried Zinger products, they have become my top seller.  That alone speaks for itself.  Yes, they cost more, but they are definitely worth it!

Dog Crate Training Starts When You Get Your Pet

Our hearts are touched by a small, soft, cuddly ball of fur, and we want to take him home. When we hold a small puppy, our emotions run high and we don’t stop to think about all the work and expense that is involved in taking the proper care of him into adulthood. For some unknown reason; we cannot see beyond the cute antics and the love that we feel for him when we press him up to our cheek. We have the mental picture in our mind that he will be easy to train and will walk beside us on leash without any effort on our part. Boy, are we in for a surprise!

It takes lots of effort on our part to obtain a well-behaved pet. Crate training needs to begin immediately, and it doesn’t matter if it is a puppy or an adult dog that you have chosen. Dog crate training starts the moment you pick him up and head home with him. Purchase the crate in advance and have it ready for immediate use.

Crate training is a place for you to confine your dog that will keep you in control and limit his boundaries to keep him out of trouble. Your pet needs to know his limits and boundaries from day one. You don’t want to wait to potty train him after he has decided that the living room rug will do just fine.

Dog crates are NOT places to put your dog to keep him locked up until you decided that you would like to once again enjoy some companionship. Dog crates are to be used to allow your pet his own private space and to keep you in control. We want our canine friend to be a companion and to enjoy spending time with him inside the house. They are most helpful in potty training your pet. Limiting their freedom in the house is one way to break bad habits. If he begs for food at the table, place him in the crate away from the dining area prior to your meal and release him after the dishes have been cleared from the table – this way there will be no food to smell and he will have nothing to beg for.

The idea behind using a crate to potty train your dog is to completely eliminate any bathroom accident in the home. A small puppy can squat and go in less than five seconds, so if you cannot have your eye on him at all times, let him rest in his crate. This is assuming that you have been watchful and taken him outside to his bathroom area at regular intervals. Small puppies as well as adult dogs will associate leaving the crate with being allowed to go outside to the bathroom area and will hold their urge to urinate until in the designated area. It will take some time on your part to learn effective crate training techniques, but for the enjoyment you will experience later on it will be well worth the effort. Your goal is to have a pet that you can leave in the house without worrying about an accidental urination on expensive furniture or carpet. Proper crate training your dog will give you many hours of pleasure and enjoyment free from the stress of wondering, “What will he do next?” You will be able to leave him and go about your daily chores or outside activities without the worry.

Wireless Dog Fences in a Wireless World

With WIFI, we send messages across the world with a single push of a button.  It's not surprising that there are wireless methods to train our dogs.  In fact, wireless dog fences have been around for quite some time.  They have been and will continue to be a topic of debate, but no matter what side of the fence you fall on, there is no doubt that they are effective.

Nowadays, electric and wireless dog fences are more advanced than ever and feature some excellent safety features.  The PetSafe® Wireless Fence was the first and still the most trustworthy of all of the wireless pet fences available today.  Others are making a move and starting to incorporate the latest technology. The Perimeter WiFi Wireless Fence is one of those that is making a move by not only being wireless, but WIFI.

A wireless dog fence is preferable to having an expensive fence that he learns to burrow under. If you have a dog that likes to dig a wireless fence is definitely the way to go!  In locations where high fences are looked upon as unfriendly or where they are not allowed the wireless containment system is a great option. If you live in a condo, dogs may be permitted, but putting up your own fence may not be an option. The use of a wireless fence poses no threat to other animals or to children. It is only effective when the battery collar is worn by your dog.

Maintenance consists of making sure that the transmitter is plugged into the power supply and that the battery in the collar is charged when in use. The battery will run low if used over long periods of time; therefore, it is wise to have an extra one handy at all times. This containment system is much simpler and less costly than a fence that needs to be painted every few years.

Introducing your dog to the wireless fence does require some effort on your part. Your pet needs to learn what is expected of him and what the consequences are for disobeying. A detailed instruction manual will come with your kit. Take the time to read it first and learn how to use it before placing the collar on your pet. With a small animal or one that has very little neck hair, the shock will need to be of very little intensity. With any pet, you will want to start out on the lowest setting and then adjust to a higher setting, if needed. Walking your dog around the boundary line with the collar on but no battery and telling him “back,” “stop,” or some other command to let him know you do not want him to proceed any further needs to be done several times before actual use. You need to make it very clear to your dog what is expected of him.

Approved Airline Dog Crates and Carriers

There are many airline approved dog crates and carriers available today.  Choosing one that suits your needs and your pet can be challenging.  Some of the things I like to consider when looking to travel are the size of the pet and any special needs he or she may have.

Having a small pet has it’s advantages in that you can choose an airline approved carrier bag that can be checked as a carry-on and have your pet with you for the entire flying experience. The carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you with the exact size dependent upon which airline you choose to fly with. Before your flight check with the particular airline you will be using to obtain the exact size and type of crate that is allowed. Nothing is worse than not doing your homework and arriving at the check-in only to be told your carrier is too large and you will need to purchase a smaller one to allow your pet to travel on-board.

Functional airline approved pet carriers are available for the small dog and have breathable mesh or netting for the safety of your small pet. These still need to be able to fit under the passenger seat in front of you. After take-off, you may want to let him have a small drink of water or a toy to chew on, but remember that most airlines do not allow your pet outside the carrier during the flight. These small considerations can be instrumental in keeping your pet quiet and content during the flight.

When you are transporting a larger pet; it will be necessary to check it in with the baggage area. There are many larger airline approved dog crates available designed especially for this purpose. I cannot stress enough, however, to check first with the airline you will be using to obtain the dimensions and style of carrier allowed as this does vary some from one airline to another. Even though your pet will be in the baggage department, the baggage compartment is pressurized and kept at a comfortable temperature.  They usually do very well with the flight and are safely taken to an animal holding facility located close to where you will be arriving, for your immediate pick-up after landing.

The carriers and crates designed for air travel all have the safety and comfort of your animal as their main concern. No matter how well they have been designed, it is up to you to make sure your pet can stand, turn around and lie down free from sharp edges or objects. Before boarding; a trip to a place where he can relieve himself is of utmost importance. Nothing is more uncomfortable than trying to hold back bodily functions for an extended period of time.

Some limitations are in place with regards to flying with your dog making it important for you to check all the rules and regulations for the transport of your pet detailed by the particular airline you will be using. Each airline has a few different rules and regulations so if you are unclear on any point – call the airline and check directly with them.

Be sure to choose a dog carrier or dog crate that is airline approved and follow through on learning the rules and regulations.

Precautions to Help Your Dog Get Along With Small Children

Since we cannot always keep your pets tied by our side or in a small enclosure when raising our children; we need to take a few extra precautions. Some dogs and cats are real people pets and will let your children do almost anything from pulling on their ears to taking food out of their mouth, but not without some proper dog training on your part. You need to keep in mind that even though they will allow it most of the time; they can be pushed too far and will react with a snap. Both need to learn their limits and allow private space for each.

Socialization of your pet is essential in teaching him what acceptable behavior is and what will not be tolerated. Introduce them at a young age to gentle children, and they will become more tolerate and allow children to approach them and pet them. Dogs like to play, so let your child throw and a ball and have the dog bring it back and drop it at the child’s feet. This will develop a close relationship that will help your dog to be gentle and loving towards others.

Some precautions to take with your dog and a child are:

a. A child under five years of age should not be left alone with a dog.

b. During snack time separate the dog and the child so the dog does not see little hands as a tasty tidbit.

c. Dogs like children need to have their “own” space. A child has his bedroom he can play in and not be disturbed. A crate or kennel needs to be provided for your dog so he can have a place to retreat. Your child needs to understand that this is “his” place and he is to be left alone. No poking sticks, toys, fingers into the crate or kennel.

d. Keep your pet safe and secure from neighborhood children that might accidentally or intentionally tease or torment him. A fence in yard need to have a locked gate.

e. If your dog is teased or tormented by kids through the fence; he will learn to dislike all kids and want to bark or snarl at them to scare them away. This type of teasing gives the kids a feeling of power over the dog and they want to do it more. They are at a distance and feel safe; but the end result can be that a kid gets bitten.

Some dogs by their nature do not like children because of their noisy or aggressive behaviors. If this is the case, then the children must be taught to change their behavior. Some ideas to help create a better relationship between the two are:

a. The child is taught that the dog’s crate is “His” and his alone, and the child is not allowed to play inside the crate. Placement of the crate needs to be away from the area where the children are engaged in rambunctious play.

b. Children need to be instructed not to squeeze the dog around the neck as this will only make him feel threatened. He may react to this action in an unacceptable manner.

c. When the dog is eating, teach the child to leave him alone. Tiny fingers are hard to resist.

d. Playing the game of tug-of-war should never be played with you dog when he will be around small children. He cannot distinguish the difference between when it is OK and when tugging on the child’s clothing is not an acceptable game.

e. Dominant and aggressive behavior may come into play when children run past the dog and scream, therefore, dogs should never be tethered on a chain or a leash in the open yard. Not only is this hard on our ears; it excites the dog and he will become more aggressive.

With the proper learning experiences, children and dogs do wonderfully well together and become the best of friends. When the dog considers himself to be the family guardian; the result is wonderful and the dog and the child will respect and cherish each other. Dog crates and cages are wonderful inventions that can assist in this process. There is nothing more important than to let your dog be part of the family and to place his crate where interaction can occur with the family.

Overweight Dogs Are a Big Concern

An article I read written by Dr. Donna Spector stated that over 60% of dogs in the United Sates are overweight or obese.  The health risks connected with being overweight include diabetes, arthritis, heart and lung disease, high blood pressure, a compromised immune function that can predispose to certain type of cancer.  Keeping your dog within an ideal body weight will help him to live 15% longer and with a better quality of life.  Obesity only shortens the life of your pet.

When your Vet suggests that you help your pet lose five pounds, it is usually pushed aside and is thought that five pounds is no big deal. Five pounds of extra baggage to a 12 pound dog is like 58 extra pounds on a 140 pound woman.  Five extra pounds on a pet that should weight around 25 pounds is like 28 extra pounds on a 140 pound woman.  Five extra pounds on a 70 pound animal is like 10 extra pounds on a 140 pound woman. Doesn't paint a very pretty picture, does it?

Overfeeding is the biggest cause of obesity.  Just like sweets add pounds on humans, most doggie treats are high in fats and should be given infrequently and in small doses.  An example given by Dr. Spector and I quote:  "A premium pig ear on average has about 230 calories.  If you give this pig ear as a treat to a 40 pound dog (who should be eating around 620 caolories each day), it is the same as a person (on a 1,200 calorie diet) eating 2 double cheeseburgers as a treat in addition to their normal meals.  This pig ear represents close to 40% of that dog's daily calorie requirement."

Keeping your dog physically active and within his suggested healthy weight means having your pet's companionship longer.  You first need to admit that you and your pet have a problem.  He doesn't just feed himself.  You can control what he eats.  Take him to the Vet for a check-up regularly and formulate a weight loss plan and then stick to it.  Your Vet can help you choose the right food and the right amount of treats that will maintain an ideal body weight for your pet.  Take him for a brisk 20 minute walk or longer every day.

If you plan on traveling with your pet; he will do much better if he is not over weight.  Excess weight is hard on them where they are contained in a dog crate for the entire flight and not allowed to get up and move about.  A crate will allow them to stand and turn around, but your dog still needs to be able to walk and stretch those muscles, so plan on a good walk or some exercise before and after the flight.

The Cold Weather and Our Furry Friends

Tis the season when the air outside is cold.  Brrr... These are the times when the temperature outside causes our breath to freeze in mid-air.  Here is where our furry friends have the advantage over us; they do not have to go out and buy a heavy coat, turn up the thermostat (and watch the money fly out the window and open doors); or purchase snow tires to keep our car safe on the roads; they just grow a thick coat of fur for protection.

We turn the heat up in the house to keep us warm and when our furry friends come inside they shed some of that coat to adjust their body temperature.  Thank goodness man invented a vacuum to suck up the shedded hair.   Here we have the advantage; we just take off the heavy overcoat and hang it in the closet until we decide once again to venture outside. 

I haven't seen a dog yet that didn't like to go outside and push his nose in the snow bank or better yet roll in a snow bank.  No matter how old they get they still like to act like a child in the snow; but after play they too start to look for a nice warm place to settle down and curl up for some sleep.  Keep a close watch on your canine for signs of frostbite or injury when they play outside.  The ears, paws and tails of dogs are the first places to check for frostbite.  If frostbite has occurred, the ear tissue will appear pale or grey.  Always check you dog's paws after a walk and be sure to clean snow out of them while checking for cuts.  Remove the ice and snow deposits as he will lick this area and can become ill if the salt used to keep the sidewalk clean is toxic rather than pet-safe.  Remember not everyone has a pet and not everyone is conscious about keeping them safe.  If they are not pet lovers, it will not occur to them that there is such a product that is pet-safe and not realizing it will use the toxic snow melt.

After your dog has been outside and comes in shivering, is lethargic, and his heart beat is low and he is unresponsive; place a warm blanket over him and put him in a warm place and call your veterinarian as he is showing signs of hypothermia.  A heated dog bed is ideal to keep your pet warm during the colder months.  An insulated dog house provides a protective shelter for dogs that stay outside much of the time.  If your dog's house does not have a cover for the opening; it is a good idea to add a flap that will keep the freezing cold out.  Remember to use a blanket on the floor of the dog house to make him more comfortable.  If the blanket becomes frozen, do not leave it in the dog house.  Bring it into the house and thaw it out and warm it before replacing it in the kennel.  If it fit's in your budget, a heater or outdoor heated dog bed is a great addition to his house.

Cold temperatures are safe for most dogs; but they still need a warm place to settle into when it is time to sleep.  There are many different types of insulated dog houses on the market that have been designed to meet the needs of your furry pet.  With proper shelter most dogs can handle temperatures above 20 degrees Fahrenheit.  However, puppies and the small dogs should not be left out-of-doors in temperatures that reach below 40 degrees.  Certain short haired breeds (Chihuahuas, greyhounds, etc.) will become chilled after leaving the warmth of the home and will need to have a sweater put on for protection.  Older, arthritic dogs are inside dogs and should never be left out-of-doors for any length of time.

An active dog in the winter will burn more calories in the cold and will need about 10 percent more food to compensate.  Likewise, an inactive dog in the winter may require that you cut back on his food to keep him from gaining extra weight.  No matter what the weather, it is always a good idea to provide him with 10-15 minutes of workout twice daily to keep him fit and in good shape.  A heated dog bed is an ideal place for him to curl up on after his workout and will keep his joints warm, preventing stiffness that occurs after a workout in cold weather.  Remember to be considerate and always take good care of your pet!

Guidelines to Help You Properly use a Crate for Your Dog - A Reminder

Encouraging bad behavior by praising your dog when he barks at a stranger passing by the window or encouraging him during any bad behavior cannot be easily broken.  Owners tend to think that it is cute when they are just puppies, but when they become full grown and chase the neighbor’s child it develops into a nightmare.  Putting him into a dog crate and telling him he has been a bad dog will only make him think of the crate as punishment and that is the last thing that you want to have happen.  The crate needs to be used for his security, safety and personal space where he willingly and happily enters.

Proper Uses of a Dog Crate Are:

• A haven or SAFE place your dog wants to retreat to.  Dogs have been known to break their teeth to escape from a crate if it is being used to correct destructible behavior that is fear motivated.
• A place where he can be confined for short periods of time and still be in close proximity of family.  Placing him in a crate for 8 to 10 hours a day is not acceptable. 
• A great potty-training tool.  Dogs do not like to soil their sleeping quarters and can be easily trained to potty outside rather than in their kennel with minimal training.
• Preventive measure to keep your dog from getting into mischief.  It is a great place for him to be when you have company over for dinner.
• Safe mode of transportation.  Keeping your dog contained and away from the lap of the driver is essential to safe driving.  It also works much like an air bag does if an accident should occur.  Your pet will not become a flying missile.
• If a disaster should occur in your area, having a pet that is crate trained will keep him contained and make your chances of finding him alive later possible.
• If you have accustomed your dog to being confined in a crate when you are home and then extended the periods that you need to be away from him will ease his anxieties and fears and keep him content until your return.
• As his own personal sleeping quarters.  A crate that has a cushion, pillow or blanket containing his smell will lull him to sleep at night and allow you to obtain a peaceful sleep as well.

Choosing the right crate to fit the size and temperament of your pet is of utmost importance.  At Canine Crate Store, it is my goal to help you achieve this goal.

The Petmate Portable Pet Home Soft Crate is Back!

Some great news that I discovered last week is that the Petmate Portable Pet Home is back and better than ever.  This was always one of my favorite soft dog crates, and when all of my suppliers discontinued it, I assumed that Petmate had discontinued making it.  Well, whatever the reason, it is no more.  It is back and better than ever. 

The Portable Pet Home by Petmate still comes in 6 great sizes, ready to accommodate just about any sized pet (with the exception of very large pets).  The new colors are fabulous.  Instead of having a different color for different sizes like older models, the new variations all come in the same color combo.  It is a dark brown on the bottom and a tan or light brown on the top.  The features are tough to beat too.

Along with being made by Petmate, one of the leading manufacturers of dog crates and kennels, the Portable Pet Home is one of the toughest and most comfortable soft crates your dog can have.  It features 600 denier polyester with PVC backing for a reasonably strong soft dog crate.  I always mention it when I talk about soft crates, but please do not consider one if you have a dog that chews, is anxious, aggressive, or not trained to be in a crate.  It will only end up in pieces.  No matter how tough it is, your dog will easily be able to chew or claw his or her way out if not properly crate trained.

With the exception of the Mini, all of the new Petmate Portable Pet Homes come with ground stakes that allow them to be staked to the ground, just like a tent.  They are perfect for camping and other outdoor adventures, such as trips to the beach or park.  They also come with a comfortable pad, are water resistant, and easy to set up and take down. 

I recommend this crate for anyone who likes outdoor activities with their pets and dogs, and has a dog or pet that is comfortable in the crate.  Remember, that soft dog crates are not airline approved, and they really aren't the safest for car travel either, but they are perfect when you get to your destination.  They are also great for home use, and come with a lot of features.

Check out a Petmate Portable Pet Home at Canine Crate Store, and take a look at what they have to offer.  I believe you too will like the new colors, added strength, and great features they offer.

Keeping Our Dogs and Pets Safe for the Holidays

I just read an article written by Dr. Donna Spector telling about the hazards that arise when you feed your pet Holiday fare. So many foods are dangerous for your pet and need to be avoided. Dr. Spector warned of the following and gave an explanation of why. I have summarized them for my readers. This is yet another reason why I recommend using a dog crate during the Holiday season. It is a great place to put your pet during preparation, eating and cleaning-up of those scrumptious holiday meals. It is one of the best ways to keep him safe.

A Few Things to Keep Your Dog Away from During the Holidays:

• Chocolate – (all kinds, but dark and baking are the worst) Problems associated with consumption of this are mild stomach upset to seizures and death.
• Alcohol – Dogs tend to like sweets and eggnog is especially tempting. Don’t let them lick the glasses or bottle caps; its consumption can be lethal.
• Rich Fatty Foods – Not only are they bad for us they will cause mild stomach irritation and can lead to pancreatitis. This often requires hospitalization and can be fatal.
• Uncooked Dough – The yeast in the dough can expand and cause excess gas in the stomach which results in bloating and possible rupture of the digestive system.
• Fruits and Nuts – During the holiday season candied fruits, fruits and nuts are plentiful and left out for holiday visitors. Be careful, especially with grapes, raisins and macadamia nuts as they are prone to cause problems with your pet from digestive upset to organ failure and death.
• Sugar-Free Candies – These treats contain Zylitol, a sugar substitute, which even in small dosages are life-threatening to dogs. They cause low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.
• Wrappers, Aluminum Foil, Etc. – Keep these out of harms way. Dogs can sniff them out and swallow them. If they do not pass through the digestive system, it may require surgery.

A Few Precautions to Take for the Safety and Well-Being of Your Pet During the Holiday Season:

• Avoid feeding him from the table. Ahead of the meal, satisfy him with his own high quality natural pet food.
• Keep him away from the table by placing him in his crate while the food is being prepared, eaten and clean up is over.
• Any treats that will be made available to guests need to be out of the reach of your pet.
• If a spill occurs, quickly clean it up and keep your pet in his crate. Don’t take chances on him rushing over to lap up the spill. 

We all love our dogs and pets and want them to be safe and happy.  The responsibility is ours.  The Holidays are a lot of fun, but can be stressful too.  Keeping our pets safe is one way to reduce some of this stress.  Happy Holidays from Canine Crate Store!

Encourage Your Freind to Love His/Her Dog Crate

There is nothing cruel or inhumane about having a crate for your dog when used as his private den.  Genetically dogs are den animals and are wired to seek den-like enclosures rather than living in wide open spaces.  Left in the wild, they would seek out places under heavy brush where predators would not hunt and there made a bowl like hole in the ground to sleep and to nurture their young.  Because we have domesticated the dog, we have also provided them with a crate that resembles as closely as possible the den they would have created for themselves in the wild.

Placing a dog crate in the home and furnishing it with a blanket or a dog crate bed and/or cover instinctively allows your pet to imagine that he is in the wild and is protected from harm.  Leaving the door open and letting him wander in and out at his leisure provides him with a sense of crawling out of his den that has been hidden by the bushes. He will think of his crate as a den and will want to be inside when frightened, needing rest or just wanting to be left alone.

Just as a dog will not soil his den in the wild; he will desire to keep his crate free from soil and will wait for you to let him outside to potty.  Using a dog crate to potty train a puppy works very well for this reason.  The technique of using a crate to train your pet to wait until he is taken outside to potty reinforces his natural instinct to keep his den clean.

Proper Use of a Dog Crate Helps with These Safety Issues:

• When inside the crate he cannot chew on electric cords.
• When inside the crate you do not have to be concerned about his whereabouts
• It affords a safe place when transporting in a vehicle
• Inside the crate, he cannot chew on poisonous plants

Dog Crates provide a safe place for your pet and when used properly they are an asset.  Our pets love to play and they need plenty of exercise for bone and muscle development.  Being a social animal they also need to have lots of socialization with other dogs as well as with their human family.  It is recommended by the experts that four hours without a break is a long time for many adult dogs.  They do not recommend crating your dog for an entire day.  They need to be let out for exercise as well as socialization.  Also, after two hours they will need to stretch their legs and have a fresh bowl of water.  Remember that dog crates are not a substitute for love, affection, and proper training.   They need to want to be in their crates and most adult dogs will be content there during the night and will retreat there on their own without any encouragement.  Keep the dog crate a happy place.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Dog Carrier Bag

With it being the popular and stylish trend to take your dog everywhere you travel, it is just as important to take good care of your small dog carrier bag and make sure that it is kept clean.  Nothing is more uncomfortable than to lay down and get settled in a cozy position only to find that you are laying on crumbs.  The same holds true for your pet, he does not like to have his quarters filled with doggie bone crumbs.  Take time after each feeding of a treat and brush it out.  After all, the designers of the cute bags made them to give comfort to your pet.  The designer was thinking of us humans as well and that is the reason for the padded shoulder straps.  We don’t want to carry our pet around and find after a little while that we have a bruised shoulder.

Look for one that is durable and easily washed.  Most are  made of canvas or nylon so they will be very durable and long-lasting.  Check to be sure that  the enclosures are durable and secure so your pet cannot escape easily from it.  Another important point to make sure you give your pet plenty of time to use the bathroom whenever you are able.  Most owners know their pets well enough to give them ample time to do their duty before being placed in a dog carrier, thus eliminating a possible nightmare.

Keep in mind that your pet also needs plenty of ventilation.  He needs the open ventilation to prevent outside smells from perfumes, chemicals, etc. from becoming trapped inside.  Avoid spraying perfumes or air fresheners in close proximity of his purse, especially, if your dog is the least bit allergic to certain smells. Look for the cleaning instructions on the bag, but most are made of a durable canvas or nylon making them machine washable or very easy to wash.   When washing your small dog carrier in a washing machine be sure to use only fragrance free detergents to avoid the allergy problem.

Using a vinegar/water rinse after a through cleaning will help to remove residual odors and give the carrier a fresh clean smell.  After washing, reshape the bag or purse to it’s original form using towels or another absorbent material and then air dry.

Choose a suitable carrier bag that will provide safety and comfort for your furry friend, and also give you comfort and peace of mind.  I still highly recommend Sherpa Pet Carriers.  They are well made, most of them airline approved, and very affordable.