Category: Pets

Many of us have challenging relationships with food – why can’t we crave carrots instead of chocolate when we are stressed?! Dogs aren’t immune to this, though they aren’t likely to dive into a pint of ice cream after a bad breakup or getting let go from a job. Instead, they may stop eating entirely. Thankfully, we have some experts to weigh in on issues revolving a new lack of interest in food.

Christine Caplan, a certified veterinary technician with AKC Pet Insurance, based in Portland, Oregon, says there are five main factors that may cause dogs to not eat:

• Medical conditions – Your vet will help you with a treatment plan to ensure your dog eats following a health issue, and sometimes an appetite stimulant is necessary.
• Surgery – It may take many days before your dog’s appetite returns to normal.
• Medications – Many medications can cause inappetence, and this is very common when opioids are taken.
• Aging – Most seniors lose their appetite due to illnesses or dulling senses. At the beginning of the day, many seniors just aren’t hungry.
• Stress – Any change or move can cause stress and GI upset.

Keep in mind, too, frequency is key here. “If the dog misses one meal I wouldn’t be too worried, but if the problem persists past that, a good medical exam and lab work is certainly recommended,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, 2019 Veterinary Hero Award Nominee and founder and CEO of Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets, based in Wendell, North Carolina.

Lori Head, St. Joseph, Missouri-based head of US operations for Tonisity, maker of DoggyRade, echoes that sentiment, adding that although, “A loss of appetite in dogs doesn’t necessarily indicate serious issues, prompt veterinary attention is important and advised, especially a refusal to eat in dogs that usually eat well.” She lists dental disease, recent vaccinations and being in unfamiliar surroundings as other potential causes for dogs to stop eating.

Reasons your dog may stop eating can range from being a picky Poodle to a sickly Schnauzer. So, what is the solution for different reasons?

Dog doesn’t eat due to medical issues

“If your dog’s loss of appetite is caused by illness, your vet may recommend a prescription diet to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, while underlying issues are being addressed and identified,” says Lori.

Your dog may give you some clues if she is not eating because she isn’t feeling well. “Sometimes they realize a particular flavor (or protein) does not agree with them,” Dr. Morgan says and adds that a sick dog will usually have the following signs:

• lethargy
• making a lot of stomach noise
• lip-licking
• burping
• vomiting
• drooling
• diarrhea

If a dog doesn’t feel well, Christine advises switching to a bland diet for a few days.

Dr. Morgan advises on possible physical issues or ailments that can prevent or deter a dog from eating:

• A foreign body obstruction, a mass in the stomach or bowel, or cancer of the stomach or bowel.
• Kidney failure and cancer are associated with lack of appetite. Sometimes dogs may not like a particular food or the smell is off (rancid food).
• Dogs may have an upset stomach from something they ate or a food sensitivity or intolerance.
• Pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease and colitis can all cause dogs to walk away from food.
• If inappetence is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, a veterinary exam is warranted, particularly if there is blood or mucus in the vomit or stool.

Dog doesn’t eat due to nonmedical issues

“If it’s medical, the pet owner needs to defer to their vet,” Christine says. “But if it’s behavioral, it’s important to explore different types of food, from toppers to a fresh food diet. You can also try feeding on a lick mat or a food mat versus a bowl.

Once a medical issue has been ruled out, Lori suggests things you can do when your dog won’t eat:

• Cut back on treats
• Feed your pet on a regular schedule
• Make mealtime fun time, such as playing with a toy that dispenses food, or rewarding your dog with food for doing a trick.
• Take your dog for walk before mealtime.
• Change your dog’s feeding situation; try feeding her alone if you have other animals.
• Also try different bowls or plates at different heights to see what your dog prefers.

You may opt for an assist from a pro, and there’s nothing wrong with that. “Working with a certified trainer or behaviorist is best if your dog is boycotting and you’ve ruled out medical issues,” Christine advises. “If stress is the reason, a trainer can help determine why this is happening and how to resolve this issue.”

Never let your dog starve it out

Whatever the reason for inappetence, we’ve all heard the “The dog will eat when she’s hungry” attitude, but that isn’t advised. In fact, Dr. Morgan calls this a “Horrible solution. A pet should never be starved. Waiting them out for 24 hours is fine. For puppies, no more than 12 hours.”

Dogs and people can have similarities with food, including skipping a meal for no real reason. But having these tools at the ready can help you determine if it is a truly an issue and if so, what to do. Whatever you do, keep the Ben & Jerry’s to yourself.

Elizabeth Anderson Lopez is an award-winning writer based in California. She and her husband have three rescue Bull Terriers. Dexter will eat his kibble and anything else (including paper); Tosh likes carrots but no other veggies; and Maybelene won’t eat unless there is a fresh or freeze-dried topper added. Contact Elizabeth at fromconcepttocontent.com.

If your dog needs insulin, he or she most likely has Type 1 diabetes. Managing a diabetic dog comes with a steep learning curve that includes monitoring their blood sugar and giving them life-saving insulin. In almost all cases, once your dog needs insulin, he requires it every day for life. This can feel overwhelming for many dog parents.

With the right knowledge, a little practice and a good veterinarian, you can manage your dog’s diabetes like a pro! Your veterinarian may recommend changes to diet, exercise and environment, but insulin is critical for diabetic dogs. Feeling confident with insulin — including how and when to give it — as well as what type of insulin you may use, is the first place to start.

Why does your dog need insulin and how does it work?

Insulin is a hormone produced by your dog’s pancreas. This hormone helps regulate the glucose in the bloodstream. Without insulin, the sugar in your dog’s blood builds up to a dangerously high level. This can result in life-threatening electrolyte imbalances and one very sick dog.

Dogs that are diabetic usually suffer from Type 1 diabetes. This means that the cells in their pancreas that make insulin have stopped working. Type 1 diabetes can be caused by many factors, including:

• chronic pancreatitis
• some autoimmune disorders
• obesity
• Cushing disease

Unfortunately, Type 1 diabetes in dogs cannot be healed and how to treat it requires daily insulin for life.

How do I get started with insulin for my dog?

The most labor-intensive time in your dog’s journey with diabetes is in the beginning. Your dog may be recovering from a recent crisis of high blood sugar, and determining your dog’s ideal insulin type and dose requires a period of trial and error.

Here are the steps to follow to get your dog’s blood sugar properly regulated.

1. Learn to give insulin to your dog. Your veterinarian will send you home with a bottle of insulin and special insulin syringes to give the insulin. Insulin needles are very small and the insulin is injected right under the dog’s skin. Use the area between your dog’s shoulder blades to give these injections. Pick up the skin to create a tent. Place the needle into your dog by pushing through the tented area of skin. Push the syringe’s plunger to inject the insulin. This might feel scary at first. With a little practice, and once you realize the needles are quite small and are rarely uncomfortable for your pup, administering injections feels much easier.
2. Check your dog’s blood glucose. You may be asked to bring your dog in for blood glucose checks, or you may be sent home with a blood glucose monitor. The ability to check your dog’s blood glucose levels at home with a monitor like the Alphatrak will save you money and visits to the veterinary hospital.

In the beginning, your veterinarian may need to perform a blood glucose curve that requires blood glucose values every two hours. This gives your veterinarian information about your dog’s blood glucose throughout the day and in relation to insulin administration. This can be done in a clinic or at home. The advantages of performing these curves at home include a more comfortable day for your dog and a more accurate reading, as stress caused by a veterinary visit can change blood glucose levels.

1. Learn when to give insulin to your dog. Most insulin types need to be given every 12 hours and are often timed with breakfast and dinner. Insulin should only be given if your dog has eaten their meal first. If your dog wakes up and decides not to eat, that dose of insulin should be skipped. You can also use your at-home blood glucose monitor to decide if it’s appropriate to give your dog’s next dose of insulin. If the glucose values are already normal or low, consider skipping this dose. When in doubt, give your veterinarian a call for further instruction.
2. Keep a dog health journal. This is useful for all parties involved in caring for your dog. Here are the important data points to keep track of during the initial management of your dog’s diabetes.
   1. Weight. Checking this weekly or every other week can be helpful. This can be done at your veterinarian’s office or using a home scale or baby scale if your dog is small enough.
   2. Appetite. Recording your dog’s appetite can be helpful information for your veterinarian. This only needs to be done in the initial stages of managing your dog’s blood sugar.
   3. Thirst/Urination. Increased blood sugar causes your dog to drink and urinate more than usual. When your pup returns to normal drinking and urinating habits, their blood sugar is most likely becoming more regulated.
   4. Blood glucose. If you are monitoring your dog’s blood glucose at home, write it down with the time and date.
   5. Insulin and food administration. Record when and how much insulin you are giving your dog. Keeping track of your dog’s eating habits, including snacks, is also important.

Types of insulin and syringes

Several types of insulin can be used for your dog, and your veterinarian may start with one type and move to another. These vary in cost and in duration of action. They also have different syringe types that they are compatible with.

Insulin syringes are either U-100 or U-40. The U-100 syringes are compatible with insulin that has 100 units per milliliter of insulin. The U-40 syringes are compatible with insulin that has 40 units per milliliter of insulin. Mixing up the syringes could cause your dog to get too little or too much insulin.

Below are common insulins used in dogs and their associated syringe types:

1. Vetsulin. This is compatible with U-40 needles and needs to be given once to twice daily depending on the dog. However, this brand of insulin usually comes in a dosing pen that is easy to use. Be sure to hold the pen under the skin during administration for 5 to 7 seconds to ensure all the insulin is dispensed.
2. ProZinc (PZI). This is also compatible with U-40 needles and requires twice daily dosing.
3. Lantus (glargine). This long-acting insulin is compatible with U-100 needles and is given twice daily.
4. Humulin N (NPH). This insulin is a common choice and is compatible with U-100 needles.

Ultimately the type of insulin you settle with will depend on your veterinarian’s preference, what is available, cost and how your dog responds.

Dangerous side effects of insulin in dogs

The most dangerous effect of insulin is low blood sugar. When your dog is given insulin, their cells are more able to utilize the body’s glucose. If levels of sugar in the blood become too low, your dog gets sick and could die if not treated. If your dog skips a meal, do not give him or her their insulin dose.

Always properly mix insulin before administration. Symptoms of low blood sugar include:

• seizures
• lethargy
• trembling
• fainting
• vomiting

If you suspect your dog has low blood sugar, give corn syrup (ask your vet about how much to give) and seek emergency veterinary care.

Managing Type 1 diabetes may feel intimidating at first. You and your pup will soon be in a rhythm with a new confidence in your daily routine. Surround yourself with a support team that includes a veterinarian you like and trust, pet sitters or a neighbor who can help give your dog’s insulin if you are gone and an online community of other dog parents that are also caring for a diabetic dog. You are your dog’s best medical advocate, and your furry friend is so lucky to have your love and support.

Many of us have challenging relationships with food – why can’t we crave carrots instead of chocolate when we are stressed?! Dogs aren’t immune to this, though they aren’t likely to dive into a pint of ice cream after a bad breakup or getting let go from a job. Instead, they may stop eating entirely. Thankfully, we have some experts to weigh in on issues revolving a new lack of interest in food.

Christine Caplan, a certified veterinary technician with AKC Pet Insurance, based in Portland, Oregon, says there are five main factors that may cause dogs to not eat:

• Medical conditions – Your vet will help you with a treatment plan to ensure your dog eats following a health issue, and sometimes an appetite stimulant is necessary.
• Surgery – It may take many days before your dog’s appetite returns to normal.
• Medications – Many medications can cause inappetence, and this is very common when opioids are taken.
• Aging – Most seniors lose their appetite due to illnesses or dulling senses. At the beginning of the day, many seniors just aren’t hungry.
• Stress – Any change or move can cause stress and GI upset.

Keep in mind, too, frequency is key here. “If the dog misses one meal I wouldn’t be too worried, but if the problem persists past that, a good medical exam and lab work is certainly recommended,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, 2019 Veterinary Hero Award Nominee and founder and CEO of Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets, based in Wendell, North Carolina.

Lori Head, St. Joseph, Missouri-based head of US operations for Tonisity, maker of DoggyRade, echoes that sentiment, adding that although, “A loss of appetite in dogs doesn’t necessarily indicate serious issues, prompt veterinary attention is important and advised, especially a refusal to eat in dogs that usually eat well.” She lists dental disease, recent vaccinations and being in unfamiliar surroundings as other potential causes for dogs to stop eating.

Reasons your dog may stop eating can range from being a picky Poodle to a sickly Schnauzer. So, what is the solution for different reasons?

Dog doesn’t eat due to medical issues

“If your dog’s loss of appetite is caused by illness, your vet may recommend a prescription diet to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, while underlying issues are being addressed and identified,” says Lori.

Your dog may give you some clues if she is not eating because she isn’t feeling well. “Sometimes they realize a particular flavor (or protein) does not agree with them,” Dr. Morgan says and adds that a sick dog will usually have the following signs:

• lethargy
• making a lot of stomach noise
• lip-licking
• burping
• vomiting
• drooling
• diarrhea

If a dog doesn’t feel well, Christine advises switching to a bland diet for a few days.

Dr. Morgan advises on possible physical issues or ailments that can prevent or deter a dog from eating:

• A foreign body obstruction, a mass in the stomach or bowel, or cancer of the stomach or bowel.
• Kidney failure and cancer are associated with lack of appetite. Sometimes dogs may not like a particular food or the smell is off (rancid food).
• Dogs may have an upset stomach from something they ate or a food sensitivity or intolerance.
• Pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease and colitis can all cause dogs to walk away from food.
• If inappetence is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, a veterinary exam is warranted, particularly if there is blood or mucus in the vomit or stool.

Dog doesn’t eat due to nonmedical issues

“If it’s medical, the pet owner needs to defer to their vet,” Christine says. “But if it’s behavioral, it’s important to explore different types of food, from toppers to a fresh food diet. You can also try feeding on a lick mat or a food mat versus a bowl.

Once a medical issue has been ruled out, Lori suggests things you can do when your dog won’t eat:

• Cut back on treats
• Feed your pet on a regular schedule
• Make mealtime fun time, such as playing with a toy that dispenses food, or rewarding your dog with food for doing a trick.
• Take your dog for walk before mealtime.
• Change your dog’s feeding situation; try feeding her alone if you have other animals.
• Also try different bowls or plates at different heights to see what your dog prefers.

You may opt for an assist from a pro, and there’s nothing wrong with that. “Working with a certified trainer or behaviorist is best if your dog is boycotting and you’ve ruled out medical issues,” Christine advises. “If stress is the reason, a trainer can help determine why this is happening and how to resolve this issue.”

Never let your dog starve it out

Whatever the reason for inappetence, we’ve all heard the “The dog will eat when she’s hungry” attitude, but that isn’t advised. In fact, Dr. Morgan calls this a “Horrible solution. A pet should never be starved. Waiting them out for 24 hours is fine. For puppies, no more than 12 hours.”

Dogs and people can have similarities with food, including skipping a meal for no real reason. But having these tools at the ready can help you determine if it is a truly an issue and if so, what to do. Whatever you do, keep the Ben & Jerry’s to yourself.

Elizabeth Anderson Lopez is an award-winning writer based in California. She and her husband have three rescue Bull Terriers. Dexter will eat his kibble and anything else (including paper); Tosh likes carrots but no other veggies; and Maybelene won’t eat unless there is a fresh or freeze-dried topper added. Contact Elizabeth at fromconcepttocontent.com.

As the clock struck 2 a.m. earlier this year, Debi McNeil Tavin woke to the sound of turmoil.

Her family’s Catahoula-Aussie mix was barking furiously at something outside a window of their home. Then their 11-year-old Labrador joined in, providing backup.

“I heard our screen door close. I yelled to my husband, ‘Someone is coming into the house!’ I saw the person retreat down our stairs and run away,” Debi says. 

Terrified, they called the police. Officers in their Massachusetts neighborhood never caught the culprit, but Debi credits their dogs for foiling the potential intruder’s plan. “I’m sure it could’ve been different if they didn’t scare him away and alert us,” Debi says.

Paws prevent crime

Multiple studies and surveys of convicted criminals show having a dog may help prevent break-ins and keep your home secure. “Burglars don’t like when dogs are present,” says K. Campbell, a security and intelligence expert.

It seems like common sense — burglary 101: Don’t hit a house where a dog might bark and alarm the residents and neighbors — or risk a bite by a mad, snarling pooch. 

When it comes to those paws on the ground, size may not matter. “A large dog can pose a physical threat to burglars. Small dogs usually don’t pose a physical threat, but they make a lot of noise,” K. says. 

One recent study found that dogs may not only help thwart crime in your home, but also your community. 

“Neighborhoods where the rates of people with dogs are higher, will have lower rates of violent crime when there’s a lot of trust among those residents,” says Nicolo Pinchak, the study’s lead author and a doctoral student in sociology at The Ohio State University. 

The key to this paw patrol is that people walking their dogs are more likely to talk to their neighbors and make observations. If something seems suspicious, they may call police. 

“It’s not necessarily about your dog stopping the crime — it’s you. Walking the dog is giving you that sense of familiarity, that routine, that ability to identify problems,” Nicolo says. 

Crime fighting partners 

Some scientists believe humans and dogs have been warding off wrongdoers together for thousands of years. 

“It’s possible that one of the very early functions of dogs was to act as alarm systems,” says Erin Hecht, an assistant professor in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University. “Their ancestors, wild wolves, were likely territorial. During the domestication process, humans intentionally or unintentionally may have hijacked that existing inclination to warn off intruders who were approaching their space.” 

Dogs’ keen sense of hearing, smell and reaction to trespassers may be why cave humans kept them around — and dogs perhaps got some positive reinforcement food handouts for their behavior.

“If this process did indeed occur — which to me personally, seems likely — it would have been very early in the domestication process, which would explain why the inclination to bark at intruders is present in nearly all modern breeds,” Erin says. “In some breeds, this behavior may have been attenuated or even lost due to strong behavioral selection by humans.”

Dogs for home protection — or not

If your dog doesn’t instinctively bark, should you train them to react? Certified dog behavior consultant Barbara Davis, who is president of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), warns be careful what you wish for.

 “I can’t tell you how many people call me and say, ‘I want my dog not to bark so much when somebody knocks at the door.’ That’s an unwanted behavior that a lot of people are looking to get rid of,” Barbara says. 

But what about going beyond the bark and training your dog to attack or bite? Barbara says when people ask her, she discourages it. 

“You can’t just take a dog from the shelter or the average dog, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans or whatever it may be, and say, ‘You’re going to be a cop for my house,’ because the dog may not have a sufficiently stable temperament to do that kind of work,” Barbara says. 

Many dogs you see on television fending off bad guys are highly trained working dogs — they are not always pets. Most are bred for the job; even then, some don’t make the cut. 

“There is plenty of individual variation within breeds due to random genetic variation and variation in early life experience. Even within breeds that have historically been bred for watchdog functions, we may find individuals who just can’t be bothered to lift their head off the couch,” Erin says. 

A safe and stable dog from a reputable organization may cost thousands of dollars. Their training and handling aren’t usually DIY. 

“If you get a dog and train them to hate people and put them out in your backyard, that dog will likely bite anybody for any reason. You’re leaving yourself open to tremendous liability. Somebody’s gonna get hurt, and you’re going to be responsible for it,” Barbara says. 

Beware of your liability 

Legal experts say if your dog bites a trespasser or someone breaking into your home, the dog’s response can’t be grossly disproportionate to the threat. 

“The problem is, how does a dog know the difference between (someone with) a gun, a knife or no weapon?” says attorney Jeremy Cohen, founder of Boston Dog Lawyers.

Jeremy says if your dog injures or kills an intruder, a court may have to assess what kind of threat the person posed. “You probably need to make sure that the dog is not trained to kill or to deliver any type of lethal bite. You’re looking for the dog to take the person down, not take them out,” he says. 

People like mail carriers, delivery drivers, the pizza guy, the landlord, police officers and firefighters often have an implied invitation to be on your property. Your dog needs to know who is a threat and who is not. “The dog might not be able to differentiate, but the law certainly does,” Jeremy says. 

No matter what kind of dog you have, make sure your insurance covers them. “Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite liability,” says Janet Ruiz with the Insurance Information Institute.

But it’s crucial to be honest with your insurance agent or company. Tell them if your dog has a bite history or specialized training. If your policy doesn’t cover your dog, there is additional insurance you can buy. Without the right coverage, you could face an expensive disaster. 

“Most policies provide $100,000 to $300,000 in liability coverage, but if a claim exceeds the limit, you could be in big financial trouble,” Janet says. ”The dog owner is personally responsible for all damages above that amount, including legal expenses. A single lawsuit — even if won — can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. And the greater a person’s assets, the more potentially is at risk.” 

How to keep your home safe

Experts say if you want to keep your home safe, your dog should not be your only line of defense. You also don’t want your four-legged family member harmed during a break-in. 

Use common sense — home protection 101:

• Keep your shrubs and trees trimmed so no one can sneak in unnoticed through a window or door. 
• Don’t let mail and newspapers stack up outside. 
• Keep lights on in your home. 
• Get cameras and a burglar alarm; some even play the sound of a barking dog. Go big, go loud. Thieves usually pick homes that are easy targets.

“It’s about layers. It doesn’t matter if you are doing security for the White House or corporate security,” K. says. “The more layers you have, the less inviting your property is.”

Debi says she is grateful she has dogs on duty as part of the security plan at her home. “I don’t think I’d ever feel safe without a dog in the house.” 

When it comes to snow, ice and dogs, we dog lovers have two questions: Is rock salt safe for dogs and, if not, what pet-safe ice melt can we use? After all, there is nothing worse than having our dogs — hyped up and ready to go for their walk — bounding out of the house, pulling you with them, and then slipping on the icy stairs, causing you to slip too. It’s imperative that we don’t even go down that icy, slippery slope by using a pet-safe ice melt.

Is rock salt safe for dogs?

No, rock salt is not safe for dogs. It’s not safe for humans to put that high level of salt on bare skin either. For dogs, it gets on their paws and next thing you know, they’ve scratched themselves with those salty paws or have licked them and ingested the rock salt. Dogs can get anything from skin and mouth irritation to burns. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, if dogs ingest rock salt it can cause anything from upset stomach to vomiting and diarrhea. And, if it elevates the sodium level enough, it can cause tremors and seizures.  

What is rock salt? It is just like what you use to put on your fries but not purified for human consumption.

“Typical rock salt is made with high percentages of sodium chloride,” explains Victoria Mack, the Customer Service Specialist for Natural Alternative, a safety-first lawn–and-garden product manufacturer that makes pet-safe ice melt. “It is not made uniformly, meaning you will need more product to melt the snow and ice. Together with the high percentage of salt and using more product, you are putting your pets at a higher risk of getting internal and external burns.”

Is ice melt safe for dogs?

Traditional ice melt is not safe for dogs because of the high level of ingredients used, which are typically — but not always — one of the salts: sodium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride and potassium chloride.

Victoria tells Dogster, “Ice melt can be comprised of several different raw ingredients. Traditionally, ice melt is a blend of chlorides to make a product that melts snow and ice to create safer winter walking and driving conditions. Ice melters now can also come in a chloride-free form, such as calcium magnesium acetate (C.M.A.). And, those 100% C.M.A. ice melters work completely different than traditional ice melters.”

Just like with rock salt, your dog can have the same health issues with ice melt that is not safe for pets.

“Choosing an ice melt that is not pet friendly can cause your pets to have internal and external burns, vomiting, upset stomach and the list goes on,” says Victoria. “This is because ice melters are made to heat up fast to create the melting effect on the snow and ice. Choosing a product that isn’t pet-safe can heat up to temperatures that cause issues with our furry family members.”

What is pet-safe ice melt?

Basically pet-safe or pet-friendly ice melts contain safer ingredients and/or the chlorides at lower levels. This doesn’t mean your dog can go to town eating them, as they can still cause issues like stomach upset.

Victoria says that “there are a variety of ingredients that can be used in pet-friendly ice melters, but it is how it’s made and the percentages of the ingredients that make the true difference.”  

She explains that her company’s Natural Alternative Ice melt is a four-way blend of powerful ice melting chlorides, but it’s blended with percentages that are pet friendly. The shape of the granules also helps it cover more square footage, so you use less product overall when compared to traditional ice melters.

Her company also has a 100% C.M.A product for a chloride-free option. This product is not a blend. “It is a C.M.A. pellet treated with a bio-based activator for faster melting and lower freezing temperatures,” she says. “It is less corrosive than tap water and melts to 15^oFahrenheit. C.M.A. will dehydrate snow and ice, turning it into an oatmeal-like consistency making it easier to remove from walkways.”

How to use pet-safe ice melt

First off, store pet-safe ice melt in an area that your dog cannot get into, in a container or on a high shelf in the garage. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, some pets like the taste.

Read the directions on the label before using any ice melt. If ice or snow are in the weather forecast, Victoria says to apply it before snow fall then reapply as needed. For her company’s product, more is not necessary and she says there is no need to overapply. She warns that you should avoid over application of any ice melt product.

What to do if your dog ingested ice melt or rock salt

First of all, prevention is key here. Don’t let your dog ingest rock salt or ice melt. To keep it off your dog’s feet during winter months, you can:

• put your dog’s feet in dog boots or booties
• use dog paw wax, which acts as a barrier between your dog’s paws
• clean your dog’s paws off after walking outside in areas that have rock salt or ice melt

“For the pet’s safety when walking through towns or areas where you don’t know what ice melter product was applied, we always recommend rinsing their paws to make sure the ice melter is removed from their pads,” says Victoria. “If rinsing isn’t an option, check their paw pads to make sure there are no granules in between their pads. It is normal for a dog to want to lick their paws after they walk across an area that has been treated with a deicer. Rinsing will remove any salt from their paws, helping to prevent licking. With our product even though it is pet-friendly, we still recommend checking their paws for any granules that may be in between their paw pads. Lodged granules can cause excess licking due to irritation if stuck and the dog can’t remove it on its own.”

If your dog has any of the following symptoms, immediately contact your vet or you can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435.

• neurological signs, like tremors or seizures
• more than mild diarrhea
• more than mild vomiting

How to get pet-safe ice melt

You can find pet-safe ice melt online or at lawn and garden stores. Read the label and make sure it says pet-safe. Pet safe doesn’t mean your pet should ingest large quantities anymore than we humans should, so take precautions.

A Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be a great family dog if given a sufficient amount of physical and mental exercise. As a bold, confident, intelligent herding dog, he isn’t for owners who won’t take charge in a positive way. This big dog in a small package herds moving objects, including children, and must be trained to listen to your training cues whether on or off lead.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s temperament

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a bold herding dog with a mind of his own. He has the following traits:

• Highly intelligent
• Good with children, strangers and other dogs if introduced and socialized properly
• Can be territorial because of herding genes to drive off unwelcomed animals
• Loyal and affectionate to his family
• Very playful
• A vigilant watch dog with a “big dog bark”
• Sensitive
• Fearless and independent
• High energy level and herding dog work ethic

Pembroke Welsh Corgis originated in Wales and were used to drive off strange dogs from flocks they were protecting and herding. And they herded cattle and sheep originally, although now they are often just companions. Of course, Pembroke Welsh Corgis were also beloved companions to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Read our story about the Queen’s royal Corgis.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi training tips

Corgis need early and ongoing socialization so that their natural tendency to be wary of strangers can be tempered. Training is a must so that their natural strong mind doesn’t take over. If left to their own devices, without training and a sufficient amount of mental and physical stimulation, they can herd children and anything that moves, become excessive barkers and develop destructive behaviors. Training involves the dog following cues; only positive reinforcement should be used.

The following training cues are required to have a Pembroke Welsh Corgi you can happily live with:

• Attention to name and a “Look” cue. This is necessary so that your Corgi will pay attention to you despite any environmental distractions.
• Recall and emergency recall cues. Because of his natural protective nature and herding drive, this is non-negotiable so that he doesn’t injure others or become injured himself. The recall cue helps manage his independent nature and is required if you engage in any off-leash dog sports.
• “Leave it” cue. Discouraging his natural herding drive and curbing territorial barking help make the Corgi’s behavior more manageable.
• “Touch” cue. This can redirect the Corgi’s energy to you and away from herding or barking at others.
• Loose leash walking (“Let’s go” cue). This is for his own safety as well as that of others, who won’t enjoy being a subject of his herding drive.
• “Sit,” “Down” and “Stay” cues. These are great for impulse control of this independent, active dog.
• “Quiet” cue. Managing the Corgi’s territorial barking makes a more peaceful household.

Activities for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi needs regular, long walks — say an hour total — every day. Running free and playing should also be on his exercise menu. And don’t forget other enrichment activities like puzzle toys. Here are 6 of our favorite puzzle toys for dogs. As far as specific, organized activities, Corgis excel at:

• Obedience
• Agility
• Rally
• Treibball (a herding sport)
• Herding

A Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be a great addition to your family if you desire a bright, playful and active companion. He can charm you with his playful antics and adorable, foxlike appearance. You don’t have to be royalty to appreciate your new best friend!

Happy December! While you’re collecting little goodies to stuff in your dog’s stocking, consider picking up an extra for your local shelter. The dogs – and the staff – will appreciate the love! Many animal shelters and animal rescue organizations run adoption and fundraising campaigns during the holiday months, which we’ve listed in our December dog events.

We want to see your holiday spirit! Show us how you and your #dogsterdogs are enjoying your holiday season by tagging us in your photos on social media and head to your local PetSmart on the weekends of December 10-11 and 17-18 to take a picture with Santa himself!

Don’t see your dog event on the list? Email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will include your dog event.

 

Daily dog holidays, December 2022

December 1, 2022: National Twin with Your Dog Day #twinwithyourdogday
December 2, 2022: National Mutt Day
December 5, 2022: Celebrate Shelter Pets Day
December 9 , 2022: International Day of Veterinary Medicine
December 10, 2022: International Animal Rights Day
December 11, 2022: Holiday Food Drive for Needy Animals

December 2022 Dog Events

Through December 15th, 2022: Chewy Claus is coming to town! Pets and their pet parents can send their letters to Chewy Claus, who will fulfill thousands of big and small gifts for pets. For every letter, Chewy will donate one pound of food to shelters and rescues, up to 15,000 pounds. To learn about how to send a letter, click here.

Through December 31st, 2022: Blue Buffalo Home 4 the Holidays. Annual holiday pet adoption drive. Find your volunteering location on the website and read more about the adoption drive here.

Through December 31, 2022: Embrace Pet Insurance will cover the adoption fees of cats and dogs adopted through all Best Friends Lifesaving Centers and programs across the country, as well as all animals at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, UT. Additionally, Embrace will be offering a 10% discount on all policies sold as a result of the partnership. To participate, click here.

Through December 31, 2022: Morris Animal Foundation is holding a campaign that will fund scientific research for dogs, such as canine health studies on treatment for a deadly blood disorder, identifying genetic and behavioral factors for weight gain and accessing the feasibility of orthopedic implants. In addition to direct gifts, donors can support the foundation by ordering holiday cards. Learn more about how you can help at morrisanimalfoundation.org.

Through January 1, 2023: 36th Annual San Francisco SPCA/Macy’s Holiday Windows. See adoptable dogs and cats in Macy’s windows and live cam in San Francisco’s Union Square. Learn more about this annual holiday tradition here.

December 1-3, 2022: North Shore Animal League shopping fundraiser. Support North Shore Animal League by doing your holiday shopping (you must register first here) at participating Americana Manhasset and select Wheatley Plaza stores during these days. Twenty-five percent of your designated full-price, pre-tax purchases will be donated back to North Shore Animal League America. This annual event kicks off on Dec. 1 at Blue Mercury at 2034 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, NY. To register for this shopping event and learn more about how your donations make an impact, click here.

December 1-4, 2022: Empty the Shelters Holiday Hope National event, sponsored by the BISSELL Pet Foundation. The organization sponsors reduced adoption fees at participating shelters nationwide. Use the interactive map at bissellpetfoundation.org to find a location near you.

Through December 4, 2022, 2022: Cynosport Dog Agility World Games in Scottsdale, AZ. For more information on this annual event, click here.

December 3, 2022: Fanny Mae Memorial Reindog Parade. Held at 3 p.m. in downtown St. Joseph, MI.

December 4, 2022: Reindog Parade at the 42nd Annual Budapest Event. Held at 2 p.m. in downtown Buda Main Street, Buda, TX. For more information, click here.

December 10-11 & December 17-18, 2022: Photos with Santa at PetSmart. Reservations are required and open to the public on Dec. 5. Pet parents can find more information on their local Santa photo day event and book an appointment at PetSmart.com/SantaPhotoBooking.

December 17-18, 2022: 9th Annual AKC Obedience Classic. Sponsored by Eukanuba and held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Click here for more information.

December 17-18, 2022: AKC National Championship. Presented by Royal Canine and held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The 2022 AKC National Championship will showcase canine athletes and include attractions, such as the Best Bred-by-Exhibitor competition, the AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals, the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes, AKC Fast Cat Invitational and the NADD/AKC Dock Diving.

 

Want to see what dog holidays are coming up in 2023? Check out Dogster’s dog holiday list.

Disclaimer: If you purchase items through links on our site we may earn a commission.

Hanukkah starts on December 19, and with these festive dog accessories, toys and treats, your dog will know that she’s loved a latke.

Celebrate Hanukkah with your dog with these Hanukkah dog accessories:

Menorah Dog Bow Tie by Delight Dapple on Etsy.

8 Nights of Hanukkah Box by Zippy Paws

Hannukah Plush Toy Set by Pet P.L.A.Y

I Love you a Latke dog treats by Polkadog

I Love You a Latke Hanukkah Dog Sweater by Hotel Doggy

Get Lit Hanukkah Dog Sweater by Hotel Doggy

Mini Dog Menorah by Acme Animal

Hanukkah Gelt Organic Dog Treats by Lord Jameson

Dashing Through the Snowbirds

Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off

Christmas in Blue Dog Valley

Santa’s Little Yelpers

The Christmas Village

The Dog Who Came to Christmas

A Dog’s Perfect Christmas

The Twelve Dogs of Christmas

Here Comes Santa Paws

It’s a Wonderful Woof

All books published from 2020 to 2022. If you know of a holiday dog book published between these dates that should be on our list, please email us at dogster@belvoir.com for inclusion.

Legendary rapper, businessman, media personality and creator of the Snoop Youth Football League, Snoop Dogg digs into a new line of apparel and accessories for his furry friends (and us!) called Snoop Doggie Doggs! The lineup is filled with dog apparel, accessories and plush toys, inspired from Snoop’s rapper lifestyle and launched right before the 2022 Christmas holiday.  We asked Robert Brandegee, President of Little Earth Productions, who partnered with Snoop Dogg, about the new lineup.

Dogster: We know Snoop Dogg loves dogs. Tell us how many dogs he has, how long he has had dogs and why he loves them.

Not only is Snoop a global icon, but he is also a huge animal lover — with multiple pets of his own at home. As any pet parent with more than one knows, each pet has their own distinct personality and unique loveable traits. With so many pets in the house, Snoop was the perfect partner for us, as he brought his own experience with each into the creation of the line.

D: Why launch a pet wear brand?

When Snoop’s team came to us with the idea to do a Snoop-inspired pet line, we wanted to offer pet owners a different experience from all the other dog apparel and accessory brands on the market. At Snoop Doggie Doggs, we are providing our customers with high-quality pet apparel, accessories, bandanas, hats and toys in fun, fresh designs to help pets experience what it’s like to live a life of rap royalty.

D: What is the line’s vision?

Snoop Doggie Doggs’ vision is to encourage pet owners everywhere to spoil their dogs and cats and have them live like rap royalty in their everyday lives. We tried to incorporate Snoop’s vibe, sense of humor and authenticity in all of the fun products offered within the line, while also pulling inspiration from some of his most iconic fashion looks.

D: What can dog lovers expect from the line launch in the coming years?

There’s so much more to come. Our unique lineup includes apparel, plush toys, bowls, leashes, collars and more (all of which work for felines as well as Doggs!). You can also be on the lookout for dog beds, pet carriers, dog treats and more to follow in 2023. This is just the beginning, and we’re pumped to keep putting out fresh new products, while growing SnoopDoggie Doggs into its own empire.

Want to check out or buy Snoop Doggie Doggs for your pet? It’s available on Amazon here.