Paw protectors for your dog is one of the most important elements of outdoor gear a pet owner can provide. Many pet owners are under the impression that the pads on their paws will protect them while running through the field, walking along the street even playing at the dog park. The pads on a dogs paw is tougher than that of bottom of their pet parent’s feet, however they are at risk.

The route you take while walking your dog may be safe, others can cause serious problems. Extreme temperatures either hot or cold can damage the pads on your dog’s paws. In hot weather, the asphalt can be like walking on red-hot coals literally burning and tearing away the skin on their paws.

Without paw protectors in the snowy cold weather of winter, snow can build up between paws melt and then freeze. This build can cause frostbite or become hard enough to tear into the skin leaving an open wound vulnerable to infection if left untreated.  The wood surface of untreated decks often found in some parks will leave behind splinters that lodge themselves in your dog’s paws again causing infection. If left on treated a serious infection could result in amputation.

Paw protectors add a layer of safety against the harsh elements of extreme temperatures. This comes as no surprise to sled dog owners and their Husky’s. Although these dogs have been breed to resist the cold with their double insulating fur, their paws are not.

Although humans are brought up wearing shoes to protect our feet as infants, your dog will take a little time to adjust the first time you outfit him/her with paw protectors. The experience will look like something out of America’s Funniest Home Video’s but stick with the goal. Once your dog walks, runs, and plays they will get used the feeling.

Every compassionate dog owner has an innate desire to protect his or her dog from harm. Outfitting your dog in paw protectors gives pet owners another opportunity to look out for their dog. If you like running with your dog through your neighborhood along concrete sidewalks where the crossing of clean streets is your route then perhaps paw protectors are unnecessary. But those same sidewalks and streets in winter may be a different story.

At the end of the day be conscience of the where your dog walks and plays as well as the weather conditions. As your dog will protect you from harm as responsible pet parents, it is our duty to protect them.

One of the most terrifying aspects of pet ownership is the disappearance of your dog. For most dog owners their pets are members of the family, loved and cherished every day. Some dogs are simply lost because they got out of the yard or ran off to explore not finding their way home. Devastatingly, others are stolen, especially a purebred dog.

There is a black market for purebred dogs for sale and thieves often steal these dogs only to resell them to someone else. There are measures dog owners can take to prevent their dog from falling victim to theft. Below is a list of the ten breeds thieves look for:

Breeds Most Likely to be Stolen:

• Pit Bull Terrier – American
• Labrador Retriever
• Chihuahua
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pomeranian
• Shih Tzu
• Boxer
• Bulldog – English
• German Shepherd
• Siberian Husky

The best prevention is first, be a responsible dog owner. Of the many tasks dog owners must do, the most important is protecting your dog. Always know where your dog is at all times; are they playing in the yard – then where in the yard, where are they in the house – in their crate or curled up in the corner.

Ensure your fenced in yard is secure and your dog has not started digging a hole somewhere he/she could climb under. Never let your dog run off-leash in a non-fenced in area. Beware when opening your door; small dogs can be sneaky just waiting for the opportunity to run outside. Do not leave your dog unattended in the car while you run into a store; a minute is all it takes for a thief to break-in your car and steal your dog.

Make sure your dogs’ tags and license is attached to his/her dog collar and their current. If your dog should get loose from the yard and become lost a Good Samaritan, can take them in and call you. Ensure the dog collar fits well – too loose and it could slip off.

Microchips are a wonderful way to prevent theft as well as recovering a lost dog. These are about the size of a grain of rice and are embedded under the skin. There is a service that you must subscribe to and keep current when using these microchips. There are also GPS dog collars available that come with a hand held locator for the owner. Both are well worth the price if your dog is on the list above.

When traveling, plan ahead. If you are taking your dog with you on your next trip, make sure you have a dog harness that doubles as a dog seat belt. This will prevent your dog from jumping out of the car when reach your destination or stop at a rest area. Always keep your dog on a leash and if your visit an off-leash dog park keep a steady eye on where your dog is at all times.

The single most important part of protecting your dog is obedience training. A solid understanding of the basic commands of “sit,” “stay,” and “come” will keep your dog safe and secure while giving you the confidence knowing only you can command your dog.

Lastly, if despite your best efforts your dog becomes lost or if you suspect stolen, act quickly and rationally; contact the local authorities, animal shelters, and animal hospitals. Post signs along your dogs walking path everywhere you can and talk to neighbors. Above all, do not lose hope.

by Remarkable Dogs

Husky's In Paw Protectors

Humans go to great lengths to protect themselves from foul weather, however when it comes to our dogs most pet owners think their fir is enough. For almost all dog breeds, this could not be further from the truth. Our pets are just as susceptible to rain, snow, hot and cold temperatures as we are.

The principle concern is extreme temperatures. Either extreme hot or cold without adequate shelter could take the life of your dog. Several pet owners keep their dogs outside while they are away at work or overnight, while this is perfectly acceptable you need to have a dog house or some place they can go for shade or get out of the wind & cold.

Dog houses provide the best protection if sized correctly, that is large enough for them to stand and turn around in but not so large that their natural body heat cannot warm the space. For hot weather, a vented dog house located in the right spot can provide a cross breeze keeping them cool. Should the temperature drop to single digits you need to bring your dog in the house. Although several dog breeds have a double coat that can protect them from extreme cold such as a Husky, unless they are breed for this and regularly experience these conditions they are not prepared.

Shorthaired hound dogs are better suited to warmer conditions that are more humid and can survive quite well with a covered porch as long as it provides some shade. In cold weather, even a short walk can leave this breed shivering and exposed to danger. If you keep your hound dog indoors at the first sight of snow they look at you as if you’re nuts when it’s time to let them outside.

Investing in a quality dog coat or dog sweater will keep them warm and snug for their daily walk. No matter the breed, every dog that spends time in harsh extreme cold weather needs to have a pair of paw protectors. As humans release body heat through our heads, dogs do so through their paws. The same is true in the heat. We place a cool towel around our necks or on our head, dogs will walk on cool grass or stand in water.

If you live in an area where your dog path is made of asphalted, during the summer this can become blistering hot, giving your dog the feeling of walking on hot coals if left unprotected. In snowy areas the heat from your dog’s paws will melt the snow forming ice crystals between their toes causing severe damage even frost bit if left untreated. Paw protectors provide the measure of safety you need from either condition.

Lastly is hydration. There are many solutions on the market today, which will provide your dog with the water they need in any condition. A heated water bowl works great for cold weather and a continuous water fountain keeps fresh cool water available for your dog.

Regardless of your location or climate, your dog breed, there is a measure of protection pet owners need to engage in and be aware of. When the weather turns extreme bring them in the house and out of harm’s way, provide the protection they need daily by supplying the gear they need to be comfortable and safe.

by Remarkable Dogs

The Holiday season is in full swing with decorations, planning upcoming events, and designing the family meal. As we begin to setup our homes with holiday plants such as poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe, we must remember that these as well as others are toxic to our pets. Dogs and especially cats like to chew on houseplants most of which are poisonous.

Keep an eye out for any electrical wires and batteries that might be within reach of your pet. Chewing and biting on cords will cause shock and larger dogs can easily swallow small batteries. Candles can give your home a fresh scent while adding ambiance, but left unattended on a low coffee table and a swinging tail will send them flying, possibly burning your pet or causing a fire.

Christmas trees too can be hazardous if your dog drinks the water. Tree water is often filled with preservatives that are poisonous while standing water will harbor bacteria that can cause digestive irritability and vomiting. Be sure to sweep or vacuum up any fallen needles as they can puncture your dog’s digestive tract if swallowed.

While it is very tempting for holiday guests, to give a little sample to your dog during the festivities it can result in disaster if over done. Set some ground rules or better yet during mealtime put your dog in his or her crate. Most holiday meals contain higher levels of fat, fresh herbs, and can be spicy all of which are not healthy for your dog; sweets especially chocolate can be deadly and should be avoided all together.

Many dogs suffer from anxiety and with all of the excitement of the holidays, the noise and crowds, can be a trigger. There are some holistic remedies available like HomeoPet® Anxiety that can help keep your dog calm. It is best not to allow your dog to greet strangers at the door but rather keep your dog in their crate or in a quiet room until things settle down before introducing your dog.

Lastly, never give a puppy as a gift for the holidays. While the look on a puppies face can be irresistible, your intentions noble, the responsibility of dog and pet ownership is a big one and not for everyone. If you know one of your friends or family members is serious about getting a dog, consider giving a dog leash or dog toy, better still a gift card from your favorite pet supply website. Following these hints will keep your dog and pet safe & happy during the holiday season.