Category: Pets

You love your puppy. Spending time with him is so much fun. But you must work outside the home. After all, you want to provide the best life you can for him and the cost of food, treats, vet bills, training and grooming can add up. So, you wonder: How long can your puppy be left alone?

It comes down to his age, socialization, training and exercise needs

Number of hours a puppy can be left alone for bathroom needs

A puppy needs to potty often and can hold his bladder only so long. So when determining how long your precious puppy can be left alone, take into consideration his need to go to the bathroom. Puppies can “hold it” for the following periods of time:

• Under 10 weeks old, a puppy can hold it for one hour
• 10 to 12 weeks old, a puppy can hold it for two hours
• 3 months old, a puppy can hold it for three hours
• 4 months old, a puppy can hold it for four hours
• 5 months old, a puppy can hold it for five hours
• 6 months old, a puppy can hold it for six hours
• Over 6 months old, a puppy can hold it for six to eight hours

This chart is a guideline. You never want your puppy to be uncomfortable or have an avoidable accident. My advice: Err on the side of caution and arrange for someone to take your puppy — even at 5 months old — out to potty every 4 hours. And before you leave the house, make sure that he’s gone out.

How long a puppy can be left alone socialization wise

In addition to his bathroom needs, your puppy still requires time to bond with you. Feed him, play with him, train him and socialize him; he will understand that great things happen when you’re around.

Puppies under 14 weeks old are in a sensitive, crucial socialization period. They benefit from a lot of appropriate exposure to what they’ll face in everyday life. This includes people, animals, noises, smells and sights. Being isolated can damage a puppy’s development.

Puppy socialization guidelines

Puppies should be slowly exposed to different stimuli every day and throughout the day. After your puppy has had a sufficient number of vaccines, take him on walks, visits with friends and to dog-friendly stores.

Dogs are social creatures. And being alone too long can lead to behavior problems because a puppy can become distressed.

Get help instead of leaving a puppy alone for 8 hours

If you can’t meet the above potty schedule, enlist the help of others, such as a reliable friend or family member to potty your pup as well as play with, feed and exercise him. Or hire a reliable pet sitter or dog walker to perform these tasks. Puppies sleep most of the day — up to 20 hours. Of course, no one is a substitute for your care.

How to leave a puppy alone in a safe area

Puppies want to investigate the world. This can be very dangerous if the area isn’t puppy-proofed.

Train your puppy to be in an appropriately-sized crate. Alternatively, leave your puppy in an exercise pen, complete with a play area, a sleeping area with a bed and a potty pad. Or you can leave your pup in a safe room that’s been puppy-proofed.

When determining how long your puppy can be left alone, consider his age because he needs to potty on a regular schedule. But also take into account his need for socialization, training, exercise and companionship too. After all, dogs are social creatures. And you want to spend as much time as you can watching him bloom into the best version of himself.

Getting a new dog comes with many considerations — one of which is whether he or she comes with “papers.”

But what do registration papers really mean?

AKC registration papers

Brandi H. Munden, vice president of PR and Communications for the American Kennel Club, says the AKC is a registry body, responsible for tracking the lineage of dogs representing 200 different breeds.

Registering a dog through the AKC includes a one-time registration fee for the lifetime of the dog, says Brandi. Registration is confirmed once the AKC Registration Certificate is issued in the names of the recorded owners and identifying the dog as the offspring of a known sire and dam, and of a recognized breed.

More specifically, the AKC Registration Certificate records you as the official owner on record for the dog and includes the dog’s registered name, registration number, the dog breed, the name of the dog’s sire and dam, the sex, whelp date, the breeder and owner’s name.

“AKC registration means that breeders dealing in AKC-registered or AKC-registrable dogs must open their kennels to AKC inspectors, who review care and conditions to make sure the dogs are bred in a safe and comfortable environment,” Brandi says.

She says when you get a dog represented as AKC-registrable from an AKC-registered litter, you follow this simple two–step process:

1. Request an AKC Dog Registration Application
2. Submit your application with required fees

AKC will process your registration and you will receive an AKC Registration Certificate. But you can also go through the process online at akc.org.

Can I register my dog with AKC?

To register your dog, he or she must be an AKC-recognized breed and be the offspring of an AKC-registered litter — or from an acceptable domestic or foreign registry with documented lineage, says Brandi.

That means mixed breeds — even those with purebred parents of different breeds like Oodles — cannot get registered. And there are purebreds who are not recognized, as well.

“Mixed breed dogs are not eligible for traditional AKC registration, but as we always say, ‘If it barks, it’s AKC!’” says Brandi. “Our Canine Partners program is available for any dog who is spayed or neutered and allows them to participate in the AKC fun and tradition such as our companion and performance sports like agility, obedience, rally and Fast CAT.”

Brandi says for pet parents who have a purebred dog not eligible for AKC registration and want to participate in breed-specific sports, the AKC has a Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program.

“PAL dogs must be at least six months of age and spayed or neutered,” Brandi says. “Both programs welcome all dogs to our AKC family — because all dogs belong here.”

What should I ask the dog breeder about registration?

Ask whether the litter is already AKC-registered and whether they have a litter number.

“Be wary of excuses such as ‘AKC didn’t send the papers yet,’” Brandi says. “Your dog’s AKC Registration Application should be readily available to you when you pick up your dog. Buyers should also request a signed Bill of Sale from the seller.”

As you’re researching breeders, you might also come across terms like “limited registration” and “full registration.” Brandi says limited registration means that the dog is registered with the AKC, but any future puppies that dog may produce are not eligible for registration.

“This type of registration protects a breeder’s breeding program,” she says. “However, dogs with limited registration can participate in many AKC events including obedience, rally, agility, tracking, field trials, hunting tests, herding, lure coursing, Earthdog, Fast CAT, CAT, scent work, Junior Showmanship, Trick Dog and CGC.”

Is registering your purebred dog a good idea?

Brandi says it has its benefits.

“You become a part of the AKC family when you register your dog,” she says. “From competing at the highest levels of AKC competition to enjoying your dog’s companionship — registering with AKC means you’re becoming part of something great. Once you register, you can access packages, which include helpful resources for all your dog’s life stages.”

Of course, there’s more to getting a new dog than his or her breeding status. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a dog you and your family connect with and then figure out the right activities for your new pet. There are many activity options available through the AKC and elsewhere no matter what kind of dog you have — mixed breed or purebred.

Through a variety of circumstances, there may come a time when your dog has trouble controlling his bladder or bowels. Fortunately, many companies offer dog diapers specifically made in a range of styles and sizes to accommodate all breeds and types of dogs.

As the name implies, a dog diaper is a piece of absorbent material that wraps around a dog’s bottom and between his or her legs to absorb and retain urine and feces. A dog diaper also features a hole to accommodate the dog’s tail.

What’s the purpose of a dog diaper?

Some of the reasons a dog might need a diaper include medical conditions, injuries, age and, for female dogs, being in heat. If your dog is showing signs of incontinence, schedule an appointment with your vet. In some cases, your vet can treat the underlying condition causing the issue, and your dog will need diapers only temporarily.

How to make dog diapers stay on

As you might expect, a dog diaper works best when it is properly fitted to your dog. Manufacturers provide guides for the products they offer based on a dog’s weight and size, with the measurement of the narrowest part of your dog’s waist typically determining which size you should buy. Some manufacturers also recommend that you measure from that point on your dog’s back (the narrowest part of his waist) to the base of his tail (on the top side of his back) as well as the narrowest part of his waist of your dog’s waist on his belly to the underside of the base of his tail.

Disposable vs. reusable dog diapers

Once you know which size to purchase for your dog, how do you decide between disposable diapers or reusable ones? Weston Dudley of Paw Inspired Pet Hygiene Products listed some of the factors that can help you choose which type of dog diaper is best for your dog:

• Environmental impact: Though washable diapers can be reused, disposable diapers are often made of paper pulp from sustainable and renewable sources.
• Length of your pet’s condition: As mentioned earlier, is your dog’s need for diapers temporary or long-term?
• Hygiene: Because a disposable diaper is replaced with a brand new one, some consider the disposable type more hygienic.
• Cleaning: Are you willing to wash reusable dog diapers regularly?
• Security: In general, most washable diapers feature fasteners that are harder for a dog to escape.
• Performance: Depending on your dog’s ailment, you may prefer the ability of disposable diapers to absorb more.
• Price: While they may cost more up front, over the long-term reusable diapers tend to be less expensive.

Some options for disposable dog diapers include the Ultra Protection Disposable Dog Diapers from Paw Inspired, Wee-Wee Disposable Diapers from Four Paws, Disposable Dog Diapers from Hartz and Disposable Male Wraps and Female Diapers by Vet’s Best.

For reusable dog diapers, check out Premium Dog Diapers by Barkertime, Premium Male & Female Dog Diapers by Pet Parents, PoochPants by PoochPad and Washable Dog Diapers by Paw Inspired. Many independent seamstresses also sell washable dog diapers on websites such as Etsy.

A final word about dog diapers: Help your pet stay comfortable — and avoid leakage messes — by changing the diaper frequently. Your dog will thank you!

You’re thinking about getting a dog. But, at the same time, you’re wondering whether you’re ready. There are many things to consider when deciding whether it’s the right time to get a canine best friend.

Be honest with yourself. Determining whether you’re ready for the commitment of a dog requires looking at your life and answering the following questions.

Questions to consider when deciding if you’re ready for a dog:

1. Do you have time for a dog? A dog requires a substantial time commitment. Your pup will need to be exercised, fed, trained, groomed and socialized. And you’ll need to spend some down-time bonding with him. This will be a minimum of two hours a day, not including the time spent socializing with your dog.
2. Do you have the patience for a dog? In addition to time, dogs require a lot of patience. After all, they’re living beings with feelings. And each has his own needs and wants. Can you remain calm with your dog if he pees on the carpet or destroys one of your shoes? Can you keep a positive attitude even if there seem to setbacks in training? Can you suppress annoyance at little irritations and not raise your voice at your dog?
3. Can you afford a dog? It’s expensive to properly care for a dog. The average cost to properly caring for a dog can run from $50 to $100 or more a month. This does not include any big medical expenses. A canine companion requires:

• Healthy, quality food and treats
• Veterinary care
• Equipment like a collar, harness and leash
• Identification tags
• Microchip
• A crate
• A bed
• Dishes
• Toys
• Chews
• Puppy gates
• Cleaning equipment and solutions
• Poop bags
• Grooming
• A fence or other safe containment
• Training
• Daycare (possibly)
• Boarding (possibly)
• Pet sitter (possibly)

4. Have your resident family members and roommates agreed to having a dog? Everyone who you’re living with should agree to having the dog and caring for the dog. After all, a dog is a family member who needs care from and to be safe with everyone.
5. Have you researched the type of dog appropriate for you? Seeing an adorable dog in a television commercial or in a movie isn’t a reason to get that type of canine. Research the breeds and mixes that you’re considering.

Some dogs have higher grooming requirements or exercise needs than others do. You should be able to meet your new dog’s needs not just love his appearance. Match how active you are, how social you are, how much space you have and if there are children in the household with the dog that best fits those needs.

6. Are you willing to learn about everything you’ll need to care for your dog? To properly care for your canine companion, learn as much as you can. This includes being informed about canine body language, nutrition, grooming, training (including housetraining) and exercise needs. Dog health, nutrition, training and grooming information changes all the time, so you need to stay informed.
7. Are you ready to deal with dog hair, dog poop and the less pleasant parts of having a dog? There are many fun aspects of having a dog. Taking him out to meet your friends, playing with him and just being amused by his funny antics are great.

Cleaning up hair from your clothes, vacuuming and scooping poop aren’t enjoyable. But they’re part of the canine care package when you live with a dog.

8. Are your living conditions right for a dog? You need to determine whether you’re permitted to have a dog at your residence.

Some leases don’t allow dogs at all. Others may not allow dogs over a certain size or certain breeds. You also need to determine whether your town, city or state prohibits certain breeds.

Depending on the breed or mix you get, you may also need a large living space and even a fenced yard. Yorkshire Terriers or Shih Tzus don’t require much space or activity, but a Border Collie will need more room and exercise.

9. Do you have plans for your new dog’s care? This includes who will take care of him when you can’t during the day or on vacations.

Before acquiring your new canine best friend, it’s best to have the proper people lined up who you’ll need for his care. Do your research in choosing the best caregivers. This includes:

• Friends or family who are willing and able to care for your dog
• Veterinarians
• Pet sitters
• Daycares
• Dog trainers
• Boarding facilities
• Groomers

Getting a new dog is so exciting. But you want to be sure that the dog is  right for you and that you can meet his needs. The research you do and effort you make beforehand will be worthwhile.

Even if this isn’t the right time for a dog to be in your life, you’ll have made a sound decision. And, if it’s really meant to be, you’ll know what’s required to properly care for a dog in the future.

Are you looking for products to help with your dog’s dry skin? When our skin is dry, we reach for lotion. But, how do you soothe dry skin in dogs? Can you put human lotion on your dog? No, you can’t use human lotions as they may contain ingredients harmful or reactive to dogs, plus dogs may ingest the human lotions when they lick them. And they will lick them! Thankfully, there are a few companies that make sprays, shampoos and other leave-ins that can help relieve your dog’s itchy skin.

Shampoos for dogs with dry skin

Often, the shampoo we use on our dogs — along with how often we bathe them — can really affect their skin and coat. Earthbath has an Oatmeal & Aloe shampoo and conditioner that are designed especially for dry skin relief, according to Yvonne Roth, Earthbath head of marketing. Colloidal oatmeal binds to skin forming a protective barrier that holds in moisture to act as a skin protectant, she explains. Colloidal oatmeal and soothing aloe vera can help relieve dry skin along with a number of bothersome skin conditions, such as canine atopic dermatitis, Yvonne adds.

Swedencare also has an oatmeal and aloe-based shampoo. Lyxvara Aloe & Oatmeal shampoo contains emollients to restore natural skin moisture and is hypoallergenic. It is also a soap-free formulation and can be used as often as necessary and will not strip the coat.

Vetericyn’s FoamCare Medicated Pet Shampoo is also good for dogs with dry skin. It’s paraben-free, plant-based and formulated to help dogs retain essential skin oils. Vetericyn has formulas for dogs with regular and thick coats.

Leave-in treatment for a dog’s dry skin

Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Hot Spot products treat your dog’s dry skin and hot spots. These products provide quick relief from scratching, licking and chewing and jumpstart the healing process, explains Geoff Hamby, Vetericyn director of marketing. They also help relieve skin allergy symptoms.

What causes dry skin on dogs?

“Food allergies and sensitivities can have many symptoms but often manifest as itchy skin,” says Dr. Angie Krause, the owner of Boulder Holistic Vet in Colorado. Environmental allergens can cause these same skin symptoms. Dogs with food allergies commonly have environmental allergies as well, she explains.

Other reasons for dry skin on dogs include:

• Food allergies
• Environmental allergies
• Parasites
• Skin conditions
• Stress

Supplements for dry skin on dogs

There are supplements that can help with your dog’s skin and coat. These typically contain omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil.

Some of our favorite supplements for your dog’s skin and coat:

Can I put Calamine lotion on my dog’s dry skin?

Don’t use Calamine lotion on dogs. Dogs often lick off whatever is put on them, and Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide that isn’t safe for dogs to ingest.

Veterinarians don’t recommend trying homemade dog lotion for itchy skin. Figuring out the source of the itch and the dryness is the first step before trying products to soothe your dog’s dry skin. And don’t forget that skin health starts on the inside, so changing your dog’s meat source, which is often the source of skin allergies, or trying a supplement for skin and coat, can help. Combat your dog’s dry skin with supplements and hair products to keep your pup itch free.

Dogs are adorable – from their soft fur to their crazy battles with toys. What is not so adorable is when that fur covers your couch and those toys take over your family room. We’re here to help with the 2023 roundup of the 12 must-have pet cleaning items for dog owners to keep your home from looking like a fur-nado struck.

Before we dig in, remember: don’t let these tasks overwhelm you! “You don’t have to thoroughly sanitize each week, but keeping pet hair swept and vacuumed, ensuring urine is not lingering on floors or furniture, routine cleaning of surfaces, and not allowing food to crust on bowls are all good maintenance tips,” says Dr. Sandra Strong, Director of Animal Services in Orange County, North Carolina. She adds the key objective: “Maintaining a clean environment is healthy for you and your pet.”

Let’s dig into those top 12 pet cleaning products and organization ideas.

1. Carpet cleaner machines for pet owners

Let’s start with the big guns. Having your own carpet washer specifically made for people with pets is a dream for getting up pee stains, as well as general dirt. I have the HOOVER SmartWash PET Complete Automatic Carpet Cleaner and it works great. There are also steam cleaners specifically for tile and wood floors.

Dr. Strong, specialty board certified by the American College of Animal Welfare, recommends another favorite in this category. “In my opinion, BISSEL is the No. 1 vacuum for two reasons: it has great products and it has the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which helps homeless pets and shelter animals. Its Little Green machine is awesome for spot cleaning. The Pet Hair Eraser and CrossWave are both great for pet messes.”

Need a professional job? Carpet cleaning professionals lift dirt and debris that has built up over time use pre-treatment for various tougher-than-normal stains like dog pee and muddy paws, removing not only the stains but odor and bacteria.

How often should you clean your carpet? For dog parents, three or four times a year will keep your carpet clean and free from stains. Dogster’s tip: Put some cute throw rugs on top of your wall-to-wall rug in high dog traffic areas and pop those into the washer weekly or every other week.

Examples of home carpet cleaner machines for dog owners are:

2. Hand-held vacuum for dog owners

The hand-held vacuum is helpful when you need to do a spot cleaning. Many hand-held vacuums are chargeable and cordless. They’re perfect for using in the car after a trip to the beach or dog park. Dogster pet cleaning tip: Schedule in daily hand-held vacuum cleanups at the end of the day in frequently-used areas like around the dog’s food dish.

Examples of hand-held vacuums for dog owners include:

3. Pet hair removers (lint rollers, lint shavers)

Small but powerful, a good lint roller or lint shaver can quickly get rid of pet hair and dirt on your couch, as well as any dog hair on your clothing.

Examples of pet hair removers include:

4. Pet cleaning and odor eliminators

Face it, no one wants their house to stink, especially not of pet pee. That’s where a good dog pee cleaning product and due diligence come in. “Clean all elimination accidents as soon as possible and be thorough,” says certified dog trainer Robin Bennett and certified professional animal care operator Susan Briggs, who are both pet care business advisors and founders of the blog thedoggurus.com.

Not surprisingly, people have favorites in the pet cleaning and odor eliminators category. The Dog Gurus recommend TropiClean Shampoos and Unique Pet Odor & Stain Eliminator. Dr. Strong touts Out! Advanced Stain & Odor Remover. Pet parent Bryn Gillis Hutchinson from Aliso Viejo, California, reports Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator “is awesome on the carpet.”

Always opt for a pet-friendly cleaning product with pet-safe ingredients. “When using bleach, you must keep the product away from your pet, protect your skin and open a window for fresh air and ventilation,” says Dr. Strong. “A good general rule is if a product will burn or irritate your skin, it is not good for your dog.”

The Dog Gurus caution against the DIY approach. “We have not found them to work as well as commercial pet designed solutions.”

Examples of pet cleaning and odor eliminators include:

5. Air purifier for dog owners

One of the most important things to keep clean is the thing you can’t see. Even if you don’t have asthma, an air purifier can make your environment cleaner and healthier for you. There are many on the market, including some specifically for pet owners, such as the TruSens Air Purifier and HEPA Pet Filter. If you do have a respiratory issue, consider Dr. Strong’s advice: “Pet hair, dander, dirt and human hair can all get trapped in the air duct system. Having your vents and ducts professionally vacuumed can help control airborne irritants.”

Example of air purifiers for dog lovers include:

6. Furniture covers for pet owners

Furniture covers keep furniture clean. Let your dog lay on it, then give it a wash every week, or as needed. You can buy special ones for your car, as well. For older dogs that might have incontinent issues, get a waterproof blanket to help protect upholstery.

Dogster tip for buying couch covers for dogs: Measure your couch and make sure it lines up with the size of the couch cover before purchasing.

Examples of furniture covers for pet owners include:

7. Dog dish mats/trays

Even if you have a dainty dog, there’s a good chance she doesn’t wipe her mouth after she drinks. Put down an absorbent mat under the water bowl or even a plastic tray. It’s easy to wash the mat/placemat to cut down on how often you wash the floor. It also helps prevent the water from migrating and perhaps causing someone to slip. Wipe or clean your mat or tray once every week or two depending on how messy your dog is.

Examples of dog dish mats and trays are:

8. Dog leash and harness holder

These can easily get lost among other household items if you don’t have a dedicated place for them. You can take a hat or coat stand and make it a piece of decor, or use those metal hook racks that hang from the top of a door and hide it inside your closet. Whatever you decide, you might have the same results as the Fox family in San Clemente, California. “We added a dog leash hook in the kitchen and it stopped everyone from asking, ‘Where’s the dog leash?’” says Amy Johnson Fox.

Examples of dog leash and harness holders are:

9. Corral dog treats and meds into a container

Whether it is an oversize bowl on the counter or a basket in your pantry, it is helpful to keep all your dog’s medications in one place. The same is true for treats; this way you can see at a glance what you have in stock and what is running low. Just make sure it is out of reach so your dog doesn’t help himself!

Examples of dog treats and medicine organizers include:

10. Dog toy boxes

Whether or not your dog is a rescue, all of her toys deserve a furever home, too. It’s amazing how great your house looks just from picking up all the dog toys! You can go with something neutral like a straw basket or lean in to being pet parents and get an actual toy box from the kid’s section of a store. If you don’t want your dog helping herself here, too, definitely get one with a lid.

Some helpful tips on keeping toy clutter down:

1. Pick up the dog toys at the end of the day. This keeps the dog toy clutter manageable.
2. Clean out the dog toy box at least quarterly. Get rid of the worn toys and wash any gently worn or untouched toys your dog doesn’t play with and donate them to your local dog shelter.

Examples of dog toy boxes are:

11. Welcome floor mats and rugs for dog owners

“A good door mat, paw towels by the door and daily floor cleaning can go a long way to keeping your home clean,” Dr. Strong suggests. Put mats on the interior and exterior sides of a doggie door, as well. Get large living room rugs that are stain resistant and washable.

Examples of floor mats and rugs for dog owners include:

12. Dog papers filing system

When did Maybelene get her last vaccination? What year was it when Dexter got his foot surgery? We keep an accordion file folder to keep all our pets’ records in one place with a slot for each animal so we can find these answers quickly. You could also use a three-ring binder or anything, really, that gives you a dedicated place to store and retrieve medical records, receipts, etc.

Examples of dog paper filing systems are:

We hope these tips give you ideas to cut down your house work, freeing you up for more dog play!

When you bring your pet with you on vacation, it can make the logistics of travel easier. There are a number of dog-friendly hotel chains that allow you to bring your furry friend along with you when you travel.Most travel sites allow you to filter results by pet-friendly or you can use pet-specific website like  Bring Fido to search for dog friendly accommodations. Contact a hotel directly before you go to confirm any rules or regulations for the individual hotel.

Pet-friendly hotel chains

Hilton Hotels are pet friendly across its 18 brands of hotels, including Embassy Suites, Hampton and Homewood Suites. The hotels allow dogs or cats (two total) up to a combined weight of 75 lbs. and  a “bark bag” filled with toys and treats available at Canopy by Hilton. Pet parents also have access to virtual assistance through Mars Petcare online services to answer pet questions and give access to local dog parks, nearby vets, pet stores and nearby pet-friendly restaurants. “This service is tailored for on-the-go pet parents to create a more inclusive and seamless travel experience for Hilton guests and their furry friends,” says Bill Duncan, SVP, Category Leader, All Suites & Focused Service, Hilton.

Many Westin Hotels are pet-friendly, allowing two dogs, although weight limits and pet fees vary, so call to confirm before you go. At the Westin Cape Coral Resort in Florida, pets up to 45 lbs. are welcome with no additional fees. The hotel offers standard perks such as beds, dog bowls, but also recently rolled out a Pet Chauffer service for wedding guests, according to Alana Paris, spokesperson for Westin Cape Coral Resort. The service provides assistance with getting the dog ready for the wedding and transporting to the wedding.

Kimpton Hotels is notable for its pet-friendly accommodations, welcoming furry, scaly or feathery friends, no matter the size or breed for no extra cost and no limit on the number of pets. Kimpton offers some perks, including complimentary access to Wag Premium to connect pet parents with dog walkers or sitters. And dogs are also welcome to join the hotel’s nightly wine reception (at locations where available).

For more tips on traveling with your dog, read our article by dog influencer Popeye the Foodie Dog.

I’m an admitted “lurker” in Facebook groups. I’m a member of hundreds of groups, nearly all dog or pet related. They pepper my feed as I scroll during my lunch break or as I’m relaxing in front of the TV at night. In many cases, they provide an escape from other, more stressful parts of my life. But in other cases, I see life-changing personal connections happening in real time, and life-saving commentary occur even though members are in different time zones, and sometimes different countries.

As with all groups, the reason for them existing can be vastly different. The communities they help to cultivate can range from humor-filled to strictly transactional based statements of fact, and everything in between.

You can truly find anything if you look in the right spots. And if you do, you may wind up finding resources and people that will change your life and your pet’s!

Using Facebook to find your lost dog

“I turned to my husband and asked, ‘Where’s Sammie?’ and in the span of time it took for me to ask, for him to understand, and for us to realize Sammie was not in the house, we heard the car hit her,” says a friend. “From the sound of it, we didn’t expect her to get up, but she sprung to her feet and bolted.”

It was maybe 40 seconds between her question and the vehicle hitting their small dog, but the events that spiraled in the aftermath of those 40 seconds were harrowing for my friend. She and her husband live in a new-to-them New England city, and they tried to navigate the best way to find their now-missing, and most likely hurt, dog. Calls were placed with local municipal shelters that serve their region, articles of clothing with familiar scents were put near their front door and the neighborhood was canvassed on foot and by car. By nightfall, Sammie was still missing, and my friend grew increasingly anxious as the night progressed.

I learned of my friend’s plight the next day, and I quickly sent her a laundry list of resources for reuniting a lost pet with the pet’s parents. In addition to telephone numbers for shelters, animal hospitals and rescues, I provided her with at least seven lost-and-found pet Facebook groups she didn’t know existed. Frankly, until then, she didn’t have a reason to know why they existed.

She joined the listed Facebook groups, and began to fill the prompts given, which aided in memory joggers for her in her frantic state. The members also provided helpful insights about possible scams to be aware of and posting physical posters in the neighborhood. In essence, they all provided a checklist, and helped her to navigate a very stressful process when she wasn’t able to think clearly.

Less than an hour after posts were made in the Facebook groups, she received a call that her pet had been found in an area just outside the line that would cover the neighborhood Facebook group she had posted in, initially.

Following a trip to the nearby 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, Sammie was home safe with some minor abrasions and bruising.

To join a lost and found pet Facebook Group, search for one that covers your area. Two local examples are: Lost & Found Pets of Western, Massachusetts and Lost and Found Pets Mecklenburg County, NC.

Facebook groups for specific dog breeds

“I’ve been running the group for five years now. It started out a love for the breed, and I thought to myself ‘This might be fun, and maybe it will drive some additional traffic to my blog,’” says Carol Bryant, the moderator of Club Cocker: Wigglebutts Worldwide, a Cocker Spaniel breed group. Carol is also the creator of Fidose of Reality, a blog focusing on Cocker Spaniels. Finding a channel for additional blog traffic was appealing.

While her initial goal was driving users to her site, she wound up realizing the Facebook group took on a life of its own. “What’s come out of it is this community of friends, of people helping people, of people who say kind things to one another,” Carol says. “If someone doesn’t post for a few days, people will ask ‘Where are they? Are they OK?’ It has become something that I never thought it would and has become an integral part of my digital life.”

She’s not alone, the thousands of members in her group engage daily. They share wins and joyful moments. They share health scares and medical questions. They share their crushing sadness of loss and their fond memories of dogs who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. It’s a community in every sense of the word, and many of the people who are members will likely never meet each other in real life. If they do, there are bound to be hugs and butts wiggling, a trait well-known in the Cocker Spaniel breed.

Facebook groups for pet rescue and shelter volunteers

You’ve probably heard the expression “herding cats” before. I’m sure that’s the way it must feel to oversee a gaggle of volunteers and fosters for a large municipal shelter that services two large cities. COVID-19 made managing eager volunteers and fosters even more challenging. Frequently changing safety guidelines and limited contact meant reduced numbers of people allowed in a building, if at all. The needs of the pets in shelters didn’t dwindle, even when the number of in-person volunteers did. This made virtual communication and creative ways to coordinate involvement paramount for pet rescue organizations.

Heather Cahillane was literally and figuratively herding cats in her role as volunteer and special projects coordinator at Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, throughout the pandemic. She uses a foster Facebook group to help inform engaged volunteers.

Beyond housekeeping announcements, it is also a way for fellow volunteers to learn from each other. “Not that staff don’t want to help, but sometimes it’s nice for staff to be able to feel like they can go home and decompress between shifts,” says Heather. “The Facebook group can be a nice place for when a volunteer is having an issue. It’s 8 at night, and something is going on with a foster that doesn’t rise to the level of being an emergency but the person dealing with the situation is feeling a bit nervous and decides to put something out on the group page. Suddenly, all these volunteers will share: ‘This is what I did, and this is what you can do.’ Which winds up being a great support for each other, while also providing support for the staff because the volunteers have an additional resource to connect with.”

Facebook groups for dog medical questions

I remember reading a statement from a volunteer veterinarian in a Facebook group dedicated entirely to pet parents posting medically related questions and photos. Volunteer veterinarians then shared insights about the issue, how severe the situation might be and the appropriate next steps the owner should take.

“Those, sir, are nipples,” the veterinarian calmly stated. It was in response to an exasperated post of a clearly concerned pet parent who noticed marks on their male dog’s chest and was concerned at what they could be. The vet didn’t pass judgment in their response, there’s no room for that kind of interaction in this group. They clearly and concisely shared a response and made themselves available for the next question.

While this specific exchange could have been considered funny, the pet owner was legitimately and understandably concerned. They sought answers from a place that was available to them at a time when a regular call to their veterinarian was not an option.

Obviously, not all interactions in this group end this way. There are some serious situations that arise that warrant the need for an emergency trip to a veterinarian. In an increasing number of geographic areas, access to emergency care can be hours away. Volunteer veterinarians in this group help provide information about resources and possible care as the pet parent prepares for the trek to the nearest provider.

No two dog Facebook groups are alike

There are thousands of dog-related Facebook groups. These range from breed specific, training and enrichment, athletics and activities, health and wellness, pet loss and grieving, support for people who work in the pet industry, and any other option you can imagine.

If you find yourself seeking groups after reading this, keep in mind the following points:

First, most groups post rules. Take the time to read the rules before you join, as they likely give you an idea of what types of content is allowed and if it’s the right fit for you and what you’re hoping to see. Second, engagement means you’ll see more of the content in your feed. If something in a group calls to you, like it or comment on it. Then you’ll have more of that type of content show up in your feed down the road. Lastly, have fun. If nothing else, you’ll see more photos of dogs!

If your dog quivers and paces during thunderstorms or becomes queasy on car rides to a perceived fearful place like the veterinary clinic, the remedy is not as simple as giving him an anti-anxiety medication.

Recognize that a one-pill-cures-all-anxiety medication is not currently available for dogs.

“Anxiety issues in dogs are complex, and it is not like, say, a person who may need to take insulin for diabetes,” says Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist who operates the Florida Veterinary Behavior Service in West Palm Beach and Coral Springs, Florida.

Equally helpful is to provide your veterinarian with specific facts — not opinions — and, if possible, share short videos of your dog demonstrating concerned anxious behaviors.

“Stating that your dog is crazy is not very helpful to your veterinarian in trying to make a diagnosis and identify possible solutions,” she says. “Try being specific, such as ‘My dog barks at every truck that passes by the window’ or ‘My dog runs to the bathroom to hide when a storm approaches.’”

Treatment Strategies For Anxious Dogs

In general, effectively treating behavior issues in dogs may require any or all of these strategies:

• Assessing the dog’s physical health, as the anxious actions may stem from an undiagnosed disease
• Changing the environment to reduce the identified behavior triggers
• Incorporating behavior modification methods that take time
• Prescribing medication to change the neurochemistry in the brain to minimize anxiety in a dog

Let’s take a closer look at five of the most popular dog anxiety medications.

1. Alprazolam

This is a sedative and tranquilizer. Brand names include Xanax, Niravam and Alprazolam Intensol.

“This is a quick-acting medication good for pre-dosing right before a predicable scary event, like a short Florida storm,” says Dr. Radosta.

Best use: Alprazolam works best when given 30 minutes to an hour before a known event that would cause your dog to panic or become anxious. Instances where its use is not recommended include giving to dogs who are pregnant, lactating, geriatric or dealing with serious kidney or liver disease. Consult your veterinarian.

Best way to administer: This medication is in tablet or liquid forms. It begins working quickly with effects ending within 24 hours.

Possible side effects: Some dogs on this medication may act sleepy or extra hungry or stumble a bit.

If skip a dose: Do not double dose. Just give the right amount for the scheduled next dose.

Interactions with other medications: Exercise caution if your dog is currently on such medications as antacids, blood pressure medicine, fluoxetine and tricyclic antidepressants. This is only a partial list. Your veterinarian can advise whether drug interactions are a concern for your dog.

2. Clomipramine

This is a tricyclic antidepressant. Brand names include Clomicalm, Anafranil, Tranquax and Zoiral.

“A popular brand, Clomicalm, for example, is approved for use in dogs with separation anxiety, fear anxiety and stress,” says Dr. Radosta. “As a tricyclic antidepressant, it is intended to target effects.”

Best use: This medicine has been approved to use on dogs dealing with anxiety, aggression and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Instances where its use is not recommended include giving to dogs who are pregnant, lactating, geriatric or who have heart issues, diabetes and liver disease. Consult your veterinarian.

Best way to administer: Clomipramine is usually given as a capsule or tablet, but sometimes it is given in liquid form. It is recommended to follow up with food and make sure your dog has access to fresh water while taking this medication.

Possible side effects: Some dogs may experience constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, vomiting or have a waning appetite, fatigue or have trouble urinating.

If skip a dose: You can safely wait to give the medicine at the next scheduled time. Never double a dose.

Interactions with other medications: Clomipramine should not be given if your dog is also taking a tricyclic antidepressant or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (including some flea collars). Exercise caution if your dog is also on NSAIDs, SSRIs, tramadol or trazodone. This is only a partial list. Tell your veterinarian about your dog’s diet and any drugs, supplements, vitamins, etc., so you will know if drug interactions are a concern for your dog.

3. Fluoxetine

Best known by the brand name Prozac (as well as Reconcile and Sarafem), this is an antidepressant medication.

“This medication is used for dogs facing longer-term problems or who have general anxiety where it can be hard to predict when to pre-dose for stressful situations,” says Dr. Radosta. “Dog owners need to know that the Reconcile has been recently approved as a brand.” She recommends using the brand rather than a generic. “Reconcile is not expensive,” she adds, “and your dog deserves the best.”

Best use: Fluoxetine is prescribed to help dogs with separation anxiety and other behavior issues. Instances where its use is not recommended include dogs on medication to treat seizures, puppies younger than 6 months old, pregnant or lactating females and pets with liver disease.

Best way to administer: This medicine is available in tablet, capsule and liquid forms.

Possible side effects: It is recommended to give with food to reduce the chance of a dog vomiting or having stomach aches. Some dogs may become sleepy, shake, pant and experience diarrhea.

If skip a dose: Strive to give the next dose when scheduled and do not give any extra doses.

Interactions with other medications: Discuss the possible concerns with your veterinarian if your dog is wearing a flea/tick collar or taking insulin, NSAIDs, anticoagulants, tramadol, tricyclic antidepressants or trazodone. This is only a partial list. Discuss all your dog’s medications (flea/tick, supplements, vitamins, prescriptions and OTC drugs) and diet with your veterinarian to determine whether drug interactions are a concern for your dog.

4. Gabapentin

This is an anti-seizure and pain medication. Brand names include Aclonium, Equipax, Gantin and Neurostil.

“This is a jack-of-all-trades-and-master-of-none anxiety reliever,” adds Dr. Radosta. “This is a fear-reliever with low incidents of side effects, so it should be a medicine not to be afraid of. It can really be a lifesaver. It is well-tolerated, and it works very well in cats.”

Best use: Gabapentin is often prescribed “off-label” to dogs by veterinarians and used to treat anxiety and as an “add-on” to treat pain, reports Dr. Robin Downing, founder of the Downing Center for Animal Pain Management and director of the Windsor Veterinary Clinic in Windsor, Colorado. Instances when its use is not recommended include for pregnant, lactating dogs or ones with kidney disease.

Best way to administer: This medication is available in capsule, table or liquid forms and can be given with or without food. Best time to give is right before mealtime.

Possible side effects: Gabapentin can make some dogs sleepy and wobbly when walking. But this is a short-acting drug that is out of the dog’s system within 24 hours.

If skip a dose: It is safe to wait and give the medicine at the next scheduled time. Never double a dose.

Interactions with other medications: This is a relatively safe medication, but be sure to alert your veterinarian of the other medications that your dog is taking, especially antacids, hydrocodone and morphine.

5. Trazodone

This short-acting antidepressant has become popular among veterinarians to help dogs deal with anxiety, noise phobias and stress. Brand names include Desyrel and Oleptro.

“After a veterinary publication ran a good study on trazodone, many veterinarians started prescribing it, and it has become the drug du jour,” says Dr. Radosta. “Trazodone’s intended targeted effect is to sedate your dog or make your dog sleepy — and not act like a four-legged zombie.”

Adds Dr. Downing, “Most dogs will be relaxed and calm after taking trazodone, but some can resemble a person who is a bit tipsy after drinking alcohol. So, please do not let your dog swim, run, hike, fetch, climb or do other activities that require balance and focus while on this medication.”

Be aware that while trazodone is not approved for use in companion animals by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, it is often prescribed in tablet form by veterinarians in what is called an “off-label” drug for dogs and cats.

Best use: Give as needed to help your dog deal with a stressful situation, such as veterinary visits or incoming thunderstorms. The peak effect can take up to three hours and the effects can last up to 24 hours, depending on the dog. Instances when its use is not recommended or should be used with caution include dogs with heart, kidney or liver concerns or pregnant dogs.

Best way to administer: After your dog swallows the pill, provide him food to hasten the absorption of trazodone in the body and to prevent a queasy stomach.

Possible side effects: Some dogs may experience constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, upset stomachs, dizziness or dilated pupils.

If you skip a dose: If that happens, do not double up on the next dose.

Interactions with other medications: Trazodone partners well with gabapentin. But drug interactions can occur if your dog is also taking diuretics, anti-hypertension drugs to control blood pressure, anti-vomiting drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Tramadol, an opioid used to manage pain. This is only a partial list. Talk to your veterinarian about whether drug interactions are a concern for your dog.

Storing Your Dog’s Medications

For all of these medications, veterinarians recommend that you store them in their original, airtight containers in a kitchen drawer or another place out of paw’s reach and always away from direct sunlight or the humidity inside a bathroom.

In the event your dog overdosed or displays any serious reaction to the medicine, promptly contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital. You can also reach out to veterinary toxicologists available 24-7 at the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline by calling 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.

“I don’t view medication as a last resort in treating emotional disorders in pets,” says Dr. Radosta. “I view it as kind and loving. How long will your pet need to be on this medication? Sometimes it is for the rest of his life or sometimes it is only for six months. Medications proven safe for use with animals that alter mood can increase the quality of life of our pets. They deserve it.”

Are you feeling frustrated or overwhelmed with your dog’s behavior? If so, you might be considering sending your dog away to a dog bootcamp program. These programs are frequently advertised as an easy-solution to training problems. Unfortunately, dog bootcamp programs aren’t all effective and some can easily lead to the mistreatment of dogs.

What is dog bootcamp?

Sometimes called a “board and train,” a dog bootcamp is a dog-training program where dogs are sent away from their homes and families to receive training from a dog trainer. Dog bootcamp programs, as the name implies, can be militaristic, which can frequently mean a heavy reliance on punitive- and aversive-training methods, which are scientifically shown to be harmful to dogs.

Dog training in the United States is an unregulated industry. This means that anyone can call him or herself a dog trainer regardless of experience. One of the big challenges to dog bootcamp programs is that you can’t witness how your dog is being treated. While at bootcamp your dog is out of your care, which can lead to mistreatment, such as dogs being trained harshly, kept too long in crates or otherwise being roughly handled.

Does my dog need dog bootcamp?

In most instances, there is no reason to send your dog away to bootcamp training, even if you are dealing with serious training issues. Generally, it is most effective for dog owners to attend group and/or individual training classes with their dogs working with an experienced dog trainer or animal behaviorist. By attending training with your dog, you are not only learning new skills, but are also learning how to be an effective handler.

Training the dog is only a small part of training; a core component of dog training is training the owner how to handle the dog. The dog’s owner needs to learn how to support and manage his dog through a wide variety of situations, which is hard to do if the dog is sent away for training.

Does dog bootcamp correct bad behaviors?

Dogs who struggle with reactivity or aggression are often targeted for board-and-train programs, and the success for these dogs is going to be mixed. Some bootcamp style programs flood or overexpose dogs to triggers coupled with aversive training methods such as shock/ecollars and prong collar corrections. This leaves some dogs quiet and shut down, but that’s just masking their underlying discomfort, which hasn’t been worked through. Reactivity and aggression are often deeply rooted in fear, so being sent away to a bootcamp can not only make the challenging behaviors worse, but can also damage a dog’s relationship with his owner.

One of the big challenges of bootcamps is that dogs do not learn in defined periods of time. Just like it might take one person only a couple of lessons to learn how to solve an algebraic equation, it could take another person months of individualized math tutoring to grasp the same concept. Just because a dog is taught something at bootcamp, doesn’t mean the training is done or that your dog will generalize that skill when he gets home. Be very wary of any board-and-train program that guarantees it will “cure” or “fix” your dog in a couple of weeks.

What do dogs learn at dog camp?

If you send your dog to bootcamp, what he will learn is going to be determined by the type of program. Most dog bootcamp or board-and-train programs will have a particular focus, such as on specific behavioral challenges like reactivity or aggression. Others have a more overall approach teaching basic manners. Other bootcamp programs focus on specialized skills for service dogs, hunting dogs or other specific specialized training. The most effective dog bootcamp programs will also have an owner training component to make sure that the dog owners are also learning the handling skills that correspond to the training their dogs have been working on.

Bootcamp or send-away-to-train models aren’t always bad. Some dog daycare and boarding facilities will have a stay-and-train option where dogs who are being boarded while their owners are on vacation can continue to work on practicing basic cues and skills, so they don’t fall behind in training. These programs may also offer “day-training” options where dogs can get individualized training support while at daycare. Dogs who can benefit most from a camp are dogs who are being trained as service dogs through established and well-respected training schools. In these instances, dogs are being trained and then matched to a handler with disabilities.

Where to find dog bootcamps

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your dog and believe the only option is to send your dog to a boot camp, there are ethical and humane trainers who run board-and-train programs. Here are some things to do before deciding on one:

1. Carefully research any trainer and program you’re considering. Search the trainer and business name for any online reviews or news articles about accusations of abuse or mistreatment.
2. Ask the trainer for references and speak with previous clients.
3. Meet with the trainer and ask questions about what your dog’s daily routines will be while in training.
4. Some bootcamps are run out of kennel facilities, while others are run out of dog trainers’ homes. Either way, get a full tour of the facility, including any other areas where your dog will be spending time.
5. Make sure you understand who will be caring for your dog and what the protocols and procedures are for accessing veterinary care if your dog is injured while in the care of the trainers.

If you’re going to send your dog to bootcamp have realistic expectations for what your dog will learn while he is away. Always check references for any trainer and facility in addition to touring it before leaving your dog in their care. Dogs aren’t robots who can have their software updated at bootcamp. Even in the best-case scenario that you send your dog to bootcamp and he learns new skills, you’ll have to also learn how to handle your dog and continue to reinforce those new behaviors once he comes home.