Summer is approaching, and while everyone is getting sun safe and ready, don't forget that dogs need to be prepared for summer too. Many families that enjoy spending summer days camping or on the beach, love to bring Fido along for the fun. Dogs love frolicking and playing in the warm weather just as much as we do. On hot days, always have fresh water and shade available to your dog. Sunscreen isn't just for humans either. Apply a little to your dog's nose, which is very sensitive to the sun and can easily burn. Most dogs are excellent swimmers, but if you decide to take your pet out on the boat, particularly in the ocean or choppy waters, it may be a wise idea to invest in a doggie life jacket. If you roll down you car windows, instead of using the air conditioning, consider securing your pet in a dog harness. Whatever your plans are, remember to stay safe. You and your dog will enjoy a long, happy summer of fun together.
The United Kingdom government, along with many others around the world, is considering having all dogs microchipped the new law. Government officials wish to prevent the number of stray dogs in the streets, while decreasing the number of dog bites and animal cruelty cases. Animal Rights and Dog Safety organizations seem to be on board with the decision. In England, more and more dogs are being neglected, starving and used for illegal dog fighting than ever before. If it were the law to have microchips in all dogs, it would make it much easier to press animal cruelty charges while reducing the number of stray dogs. Reprimanding and possibly punishing irresponsible owners would be easier, and may deter them from owning more dogs. While dog licensing and microchips are an important measure, education is the best way to prevent animal suffering.
After recommendations from several veterinarians that George, a Jack Russell Terrier be put down, he has made a miraculous recovery. George is twelve years old, and several months ago, an inexplicable illness caused paralysis throughout his entire body. His loving owner Jean was faced with a tough decision. George was unable to run, walk or even wag his tail. It devastated her to see him in this condition, but somehow she believed that he would pull through. Eventually, Jean found a veterinarian with a hydrotherapy pool. George was placed in the pool daily with the assistance of his vet, and attached by a dog harness. His veterinarian massaged and moved his limbs along for him, but sure enough, it wasn't long before George started paddling on his own. Veterinarians are baffled and Jean couldn't be happier. Although George is not 100 per cent better, he is able to go for long walks again and wag his tail. Jean claims he's happy again, and that's all she could ever ask for.
A famous television host in the United Kingdom has recently rescued a mixed breed dog named Badger from an abusive home. After spotting Badger, a suspicious neighbour reported the dog to the local RSPCA, claiming the dog looked incredibly weak and thin. After an inspection, Badger was taken from the man who owned him, and was put up for adoption. The inspector claimed Badger was the thinnest dog he had ever seen. After visiting the animal shelter for a charity event, famous television host Kate Humble adopted the dog, and has given him a loving, happy and healthy home. Kate recommends that anyone who has the time and funds to adopt a dog should do so, as there is nothing more rewarding than providing a home for an animal in need. Badger's previous owner was charged with negligence and must perform 12 months of community service.
There's a new kind of dog door coming to the market. One that only your dog has the power to open. Doors which allow dogs the freedom to go outside as they please, are often a dangerous route. Other animals, or even burglars can easily use the door to get into your home as well. New electro-magnetic doors open when your dog approaches, through a remote sensor installed in your dog's collar. The doors are energy efficient, rust proof, and have a safety feature that will not allow the door to shut until it is free from obstruction, meaning no pinched paws or tails. There is also a design in which a latch is released through the sensor allowing the dog to push the door open. The drawback is that the doors will be very pricey and may not be efficient during heavy snowfalls.
