Spring Check-Up For Your Dog.

Hello everyone! Seems like winter is finally on its way out. This means that it is time to be thinking about flea infestation and mosquitoes that carry heartworms. I am going to start with heartworms. Following the bite of an infected mosquito, young heartworms enter the bloodstream of the dog and actually mature within the canine heart. Symptoms are: tiring easily, chronic cough, coat loss and weight loss.

This is a very serious problem and can be treated with drugs to destroy the worms. But, preventive medicine is a better means on control. There are 2 things you can do: screen your dog against mosquitoes, and regularly give him heartworm preventive pills that you can get from your vet. But before your vet will give you the medicine he has to perform a blood test on your dog to make sure no heartworms exist.

Now I would like to mention those pesky fleas. Even though some of us think of the flea as not a big deal, it is! An infested dog suffers from blood loss and itchy skin, and can even contract tapeworms, which spend part of their life cycle in the flea. Dogs with fleas generally lose areas of hair, especially in the lower back, neck and inner thighs. Fleas are looking for a meal, and they will try to find one on a human, too. Bathing your dog with a flea shampoo or using a dip after using a regular dog shampoo is effective.

A very important thing to remember. If you are going to use a dip, make very sure that you use a regular shampoo. The reason for this is that if you use both (flea shampoo and dip), it would be too toxic to your dog and could possibly cause a severe life-threatening reaction. The best preventive is the between the shoulder liquid that you can get from your vet. The over the counter products work, but do not kill eggs or larvae, even though it says they do. They do not have the extra ingredient that the vet uses and sells. It is too strong to be sold without a prescription. I will have more tips on getting your dog ready for spring. Thanks for visiting.

Oak Hill, WV Couple Charged With Animal Cruelty and Child Neglect.

This is just one of a thousand abuse cases that involve children and animals. In the 3/29/08 edition of the Herald Dispatch, I had a guest column called " It's Time To Stop Abuse In All Cases." It dealt with the correlation of animal abuse to domestic abuse.

An Oak Hill couple was charged with multiple counts of child abuse and neglect after city police said they found four children living in "disgusting" conditions unfit for humans. Allen M. Fitzwater, 23, and Regina L. Ulmer, 28, of 11-7 Pine Knoll Apartments, were each charged with four felony counts of child abuse and neglect by a parent, guardian or custodian leading to bodily injury, according to Police Chief Mike Whisman and Patrolman M.J. Jarvis.

They were being held Tuesday at Southern Regional Jail on $20,000 bonds. Both were also charged with one count each of obstructing a police officer. Police were called to Pine Knoll Apartments around 4:30 p.m. Monday to assist Child Protective Services. CPS workers were there to remove Ulmer's four children -- three girls ages 10, 8 and 6, and a boy, 7 months -- after receiving an order to do so by a judge. When officers arrived, Ulmer and Fitzwater, her boyfriend, were instructed to open the door and they refused. So, officers entered through an unlocked rear door.

Jarvis, a police officer for five years, said he then encountered the worst living conditions he had ever seen. Trash was strewn throughout the three-bedroom, two-level apartment to the point where one bedroom door could not be opened, he(Jarvis) said. Dirty diapers were found "all over." Maggots were found in a bathroom. Officers also found dog feces and urine virtually everywhere, including the children's beds, Jarvis said. The two small-breed dogs that appeared to have skin problems were seized by animal control officers. "No human being should have to live like that -- especially kids," Jarvis said.

The children, initially upset, were taken to Plateau Medical Center as a precaution because of their living conditions, Jarvis said. They were then released to CPS custody. Jarvis advised people -- particularly school officials and others who work with children -- to be observant when it comes to children's overall hygiene and appearance, noting any constant and severe problems.

Micro-Chips and Cancer In Dogs.

Here we go again... Studies conducted in the 1990’s suggesting microchips may cause cancer have recently resurfaced. This time published by the Associated Press, the story gained some momentum and was picked up by the New York Times, ABC News and other major media sources. The fact remains however that in the last 10 years, no evidence has been found that in any way demonstrates the existence of a correlation between microchip implantation and incidence of cancer in cats and dogs.


Dr. Walt Ingwersen has been involved in discussions throughout the world regarding microchip implants for companion animals. He served as Editor of JAAHA (Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association) and has published a dozen articles on the subject. For the purposes of full disclosure, it should be noted that Dr. Ingwersen serves as an advisor to Pethealth Inc. from time to time.

"This is not a “microchips cause cancer issue” but rather that anything that gains entrance to the body and incites inflammation could be a trigger for cancer. This is extremely rare, although there appears to be a higher incidence in certain families or lines of animals indicating a genetic predisposition. This predisposition does not simply apply to microchips but to ALL products/items that end up in a subcutaneous location, including vaccines, foreign bodies, etc., and even trauma.

Additionally, the aforementioned studies were flawed from an epidemiological perspective because the rodents used (e.g., 4279 CBA/J mice) are genetically selected to be prone to cancer; therefore they are not representative of the general population of companion animals kept as pets. Additionally, it is well recognized that one cannot extrapolate from studies in one species (e.g., mice) to another (e.g., cats and dogs).

It is also important to know that work has been done to confirm the safety of microchips implanted into animals. A literature search only shows 2 case reports of a suspected inflammation-induced fibrosarcoma at the microchip implantation site, however there was not a definitive cause-effect conclusion as other injections had been given in the same area.

Additionally, the BSAVA (British Small Animal Veterinary Association) has had a robust microchip adverse reaction surveillance system in place for over 10 years with only 2 reports of cancer associated with a microchip implant. Again, there was no causality assessment provided and this may simply be a coincidental occurrence. Even so, based on all adverse reports received by the BSAVA, this only equates to a 0.6% incidence, which is extremely low, especially when one factors in the high rate of microchip use in the UK (the majority of dogs and cats are implanted with a microchip)

http://www.bsava.com/resources/microchipadvice/adversereactionform/

Another Shelter Abuse Case - The Public Didn't Know About!

Chance thinks if the news media would get more involved in animal abuse cases, it might slow the tide.

Almost 2 yrs. ago, a Berkeley County woman was charged with keeping 149 dogs in inhumane conditions. Mari Spade, a 61 year old woman (at the time) that started a rescue called, ironically, "Second Chance", that actually arranged adoptions for hundreds of dogs at several Loudoun County pet stores and a local veterinary clinic, has been charged with animal cruelty.

This is another case of someone opening a shelter and not being able to handle it. Who suffers, the animals, of course. Her lawyer had the audacity to say, "There is no abuse. She may have been a little over-whelmed, but she is not a cruel person by definition." But, anyone that would defend someone like this woman, is desperate for a case. The evidence was abundant.

She has been ordered to pay restitution of about $115,000.00. This amount came from the total cost it took to take care of the dogs rescued from the hell they were living in. She pleaded no-contest in Dec. '07 to one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. The charge is too lenient. I feel she should at least have done 6mo. to 2 yrs. in jail and paid the county back.

"Dognamic Duo's" 12/12/120 Tour.

This tour takes of April 6, 2008. The founder of Dogs Deserve Better, Tammy Grimes has been putting this together for a year. Now, it will be a reality. It is 12 States • 12 Days • 120 Dogs.

March 27, Altoona, PA — What if someone wanted to prove that they could drive to any state and in the space of a few hours easily find, photograph, and videotape a minimum of 10 dogs spending their lives at the end of a chain?

And what if they decided to test this theory by going on the road on a whirlwind 12 state tour, spending only 1 day per state, including finding the dogs, driving to the next state, securing lodging, possibly speaking, meeting media, and creating videos? And what if at the end of each day they uploaded pictures and videos of their findings in that state on that day for the nation to share in the truth of what is going on in our country’s backyards? And what if one day two women decided to make all these ‘what ifs’ a reality? The result is The Dognamic Duo’s 12/12/120 Tour.

The brainchild of DDB founder Tammy Grimes, the road tour idea has been festering for over a year; now she and DDB public liaison director Dawn Ashby have decided to put the plan into action under the tour name of The Dognamic Duo’s 12/12/120 Tour! April 5th Grimes will fly to St. Louis, Missouri, where she will meet up with Ashby. There they will pick up a car, drive into Missouri to a likely location, and commence the 12 state tour bright and early the morning of the 6th.

The intention of the tour and the subsequent pictorial and video footage is to show how prevalent chaining and penning are in the U.S., educate the nation that it is common in all states, and put forth the idea that it is indeed something that must be stopped; that it is not humane and not an acceptable practice. They will be speaking to caretakers of chained and penned dogs, passing out treats, collars and leashes, educational materials and fencing applications, and seeking local help for situations that appear to be illegal, as well as engaging the public through speaking and media alerts.

The tour schedule is as follows:
12 Days, 12 States, 120 Chained Dogs
Day 1: April 6th, Missouri
Day 2: April 7th, Arkansas
Day 3: April 8th, Lousiana
Day 4: April 9th, Mississippi
Day 5: April 10, Alabama
Day 6: April 11, Georgia
Day 7: April 12, South Carolina
Day 8: April 13, North Carolina
Day 9: April 14, Tennessee
Day 10: April 15, Kentucky
Day 11: April 16, Virginia
Day 12: April 17, West Virginia

For more information, a tip form, and to see video and photos once the tour begins, visit the website at http://www.dogsdeservebetter.org/dognamictour.html

Dogs Deserve Better, a 501c3 nonprofit organization headquartered in Tipton, Pennsylvania, is the 2003 First Place Winner of the ASPCA Pet Protector Award. The group has 150 area reps in 38 states as well as in Canada and France. Grimes was also a Top Ten Finalist for the 2006 Animal Planet Hero of the Year Contest.

Lethal Injection Most Humane.

A story caught my interest when I was watching one of the local news channels on 3/24/08. It was about animal shelters in the state of WV that use carbon monoxide poisoning (gas chamber) and firearms as a forms of euthanasia for cats and dogs. It seems so barbaric. Lethal injection should be the only way animals are euthanized.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says that lethal injection is the absolute most humane. 11 states currently consider use of gas chambers illegal. 18 specifically say it is legal and 20 states, this includes WV, don't even mention it. Below you will find the link to take you to the amendment regarding laws.

http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Bill_Text_HTML/2001_SESSIONS/RS/Bills/hb2555%20sub.htm

Humane Society of the United States:

http://www.animalsheltering.org/resource_library/policies_and_guidelines/virginia_carbon_monoxide_euthanasia.html

Foreclosure Pet Fund.

To help keep families and pets together through foreclosures and financial crisis, The Humane Society of the United States has created a grant program to address the hardships visited on the voiceless victims of the current economic downturn. Animals have been left behind in foreclosed homes, and shelters are reporting that families are struggling to keep and feed pets. The nation’s largest animal protection organization, The HSUS is offering grants to animal shelters, non-sheltered rescue/adoption groups and animal care and control agencies to help establish, expand, or publicize services or programs that assist families in caring for their pets during the current economic crisis.

How You Can Help:
Make a donation to the Foreclosure Pets Fund. Contact your local animal shelter or rescue group to learn about the needs in your community. You may be able to help them organize pet food donations or pet supply drives—even coin collections and penny drives all add up to helping pets and families.

Shelters and Rescues:
Grants range from $500 to $2,000 per organization. Collaboration is encouraged and preference will be given to organizations that have a cooperative agreement with other agencies in their community such as a food bank or other community service agency.


Examples of the types of programs that would be eligible for funding from The HSUS fund include organizations that are: partnering with local food banks to donate and distribute pet food and supplies working with veterinarians to develop service vouchers to be distributed to people who need assistance with vaccinations, spay and neuter surgeries, or other veterinary care. Creating a special fund to provide needed financial support to the pets of families affected by the economic downturn to help cover the costs of food, supplies, spay and neuter surgeries, veterinary care, and other expenses for pets of families in need.

To be considered eligible for the grant, an organization must:
Be a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization or a municipal animal control agency eligible to receive restricted funds. Submit an online application that defines the need within the community for the program being proposed and describes how the organization plans to meet those needs.

Groomer Has It.

Chance wants everyone to check this new show out! He will be watching, for sure.

The founder and president of the grooming academy I graduated from, Nash Academy of Animal Arts, Jon Nash, just finished filming his new reality show called, "Groomer Has It." It will air on Animal Planet, April 12Th at 9pm.

This reality show will feature 12 groomers that are competing for a grand prize of a grooming truck, $50,000.00 in cash and the prestigious title of "Groomer of the Year." You can view a sneak peak on Animal Planet's website at: http://www.animalplanet.com/.

Little Victories Thrift Store Opening Soon.

Chance is dancing with glee over Little Victories!


In April, Little Victories, Cabell County's first no-kill shelter, will be opening a thrift store to help with vet costs and their new rescue farm on Wire Branch Rd. in Ona, WV. The store is located at 4465 WV Rt. 10 in Barboursville, WV. This organization has been giving homeless and abused dogs a second chance at life for 5 yrs.


The president, Sue Brown, is a tireless advocate for the abused and homeless animals that did not ask to be born. For more information on the new store or if you have questions about their organization, you can call 304 523-1666 or go to their website at: http://www.littlevictories.org/.

What a Joke.

It never ceases to amaze me how our judicial system works. The state dogfighting charges against Michael Vick and the 2 other men convicted on Federal dogfighting charges, have been delayed. Now get this, because it is up to the Surry County VA. Commonwealth District Attorney's office to figure out how to transport them to VA. to face the State charges. And he doesn't know how to work out the "logistics" to do this.

This is utterly ridiculous. One of the men has already been released from Federal prison, after serving a 2 month sentence. At least Vick is serving 23 months in Federal prison for his horrendous acts. Just an update.

Are You Prepared In Case Of A Natural Disaster? Part 2.

Chance says, "Don't get caught sleeping, be prepared!"

Identification: Having identification on your animals, including rabies and license tags, if applicable, may help reunite you with your animal(s) in the event that you are separated. Identification should provide your name, home address, a phone number where you can be reached, and an out-of-state phone number of someone with whom you will be in contact during or soon after the disaster/evacuation.

If possible, include your veterinarian's name, location, and phone number. Examples of some forms of identification are listed below. Small Animal: Collar tag (a piece of tape applied to the back of the collar tag can provide evacuation site information – use waterproof ink) microchip, tattoo, temporary neckband, waterproof pouch attached to collar with identification information inside, clear identification on cage/housing for confined animals.

Transportation/Housing: It is important to separate animals from different households as much as possible and to maintain the best possible hygiene to decrease disease transmission. Small Animal: Leash, collar, and/or harness for each pet. Collapsible cage or airline approved carrier should also be available for each pet, and bedded properly, for transportation and housing purposes - owning enough carriers to accommodate your pets, facilitates a speedy evacuation and may mean the difference between the life or death of your pet.

Familiarize your animals with evacuation procedures and cages/carriers. Take the cage/carrier out several times a year and put dog or cat treats inside with blankets and toys. By doing this, you hope to reinforce positive feelings associated with the animal carrier. Cat carriers should be large enough to hold a small litter pan and two small dishes and still allow your cat enough room to lie down comfortably or stand to use the litter pan.

Dog kennels or collapsible cages should be large enough to hold two no-spill bowls and still allow enough room for your dog to stand and turn around. For added assurance, clearly label each carrier with your identification and contact information. Locate and pre-arrange an evacuation site for your family and animals outside your immediate area. Ideally, this will be a friend/relative or a pet-friendly hotel that is willing to let your family and animals stay in the event of a disaster. Other possible animal housing options include veterinary hospitals, boarding kennels, and animal shelters.

Are You Prepared In Case Of A Natural Disaster? Part 1.

Chance is ready for any disaster! Nature and life have fury days: Tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, fires, blizzards, terrorism... Devastating natural and man-made disasters can ravage our lives. No one is exempt from the possibility of being affected personally. You need to prepare for yourself and for your animals in case of disaster. Countless times people have been told to leave their homes for a "short time," only to find that they cannot return for days or weeks.

Even disasters like gas leaks and minor flooding can keep you from tending to your animals for extended periods of time. To prevent situations such as these take your animals with you. It is best to be overly cautious during a disaster warning. Preparing ahead of time and acting quickly is the best way to keep you and your family, including your animals, out of danger. Be familiar with all types of disasters, including a hazardous material spill. Also, be prepared for extended loss of utilities.

Prepare a plan: Talk with your vet and assemble an animal evacuation kit. Develop a plan and practice it. If you live in an apartment, make sure your animals are on record with the management of the apartment bldg. and can be evacuate down the stairwell. Dogs should be taught to go up and down stairs to better aid first responders. Be sure you are able to give rescue responders exact directions to your home or apartment bldg. Keep your vehicles full of gas and have emergency cash on hand.

In Case You Are Not At Home: Preplace stickers on front and back house doors, and bedroom windows and any other entrances to notify neighbors, fire fighters, police, and other rescue personnel that animals are on your property and where to find your evacuation supplies. Provide a list near your evacuation supplies of the number, type, and location of your animals, noting favorite hiding spots, in order to save precious rescue time.

To facilitate a successful rescue, provide muzzles, handling gloves, catch nets, and animal restraints where rescue personnel can find them. Keep in mind that animals may become unpredictable when frightened. Designate a willing neighbor to tend to your animals in the event that a disaster occurs when you are not at home. This person should have a key to your home, be familiar with your animals, know your evacuation procedures, and know where your evacuation supplies are kept.

In your evacuation kit, keep a pre-signed letter that releases your neighbor from responsibility if one of your animals becomes injured during the evacuation. You may also want to have a pre-signed veterinary medical treatment authorization with your Evacuation kit – this will aid your veterinarian if your animal must be treated during your absence.

Animals And The Film Media.

Ever wonder about that statement - "no animals were harmed in the making of this film?" The American Humane film and TV unit is the organization responsible for that slogan. That is the highest rating that can be given to any film media. By film media, I mean any motion picture or TV show.


Now, they are totally different from the HSUS (Humane Society of the United States). For over 65 years, this organization has been monitoring motion pictures and TV shows to ensure that all animal actors are being treated humanely.


Since the introduction of their guidelines, illnesses, animal accidents and deaths have declined dramatically. Prior to 1980, 107 films were listed as "unacceptable" because of deliberate neglect or malice. But, from 1980 to 1988, when the guidelines were debuted, 31 films were found "unacceptable", and since 1988, only 16 films received the ignoble distinction.

Sometimes, an unpreventable illness, injury or fatality can occur to an animal on a monitored movie set. If, after a complete investigation, American Humane determines that the production followed the Guidelines and cooperated fully with their Safety Representatives, they will rate the film Monitored: Special Circumstances. Obviously, such a film could never carry the "No Animals Were Harmed" end credit. Instead, such films have always carried the modified disclaimer of “American Humane monitored the animal action.”

Chance Throws The Ball. His big movie break!

Continuosly Chaining A Dog Is Inhumane And Dangerous - Part 2.

8. Are tethered dogs otherwise treated well? Rarely does a chained or tethered dog receive sufficient care. Tethered dogs suffer from sporadic feedings, overturned water bowls, inadequate veterinary care, and extreme temperatures. During snow storms, these dogs often have no access to shelter.



During periods of extreme heat, they may not receive adequate water or protection from the sun. What's more, because their often neurotic behavior makes them difficult to approach, chained dogs are rarely given even minimal affection. Tethered dogs may become "part of the scenery" and can be easily ignored by their owners.



9. Are the areas in which tethered dogs are confined usually comfortable? No, because the dogs have to eat, sleep, urinate and defecate in a single confined area. Owners who chains their dogs are also less likely to clean the area. Although there may have once been grass in an area of confinement, it is usually so beaten down by the dog's pacing that the ground consists of nothing but dirt or mud.



10. But how else can people confine dogs? The HSUS recommends that all dogs be kept indoors at night, taken on regular walks, and otherwise provided with adequate attention, food, water and veterinary care. If an animal must be housed outside at certain times, he should be placed in a suitable pen with adequate square footage and shelter from the elements.



11. Should chaining or tethering ever be allowed? To become well-adjusted companion animals, dogs should interact regularly with people and other animals, and should receive regular exercise. It is an owner's responsibility to properly restrain her dog, just as it is the owner's responsibility to provide adequate attention and socialization. Placing an animal on a restraint to get fresh air can be acceptable if it is done for a short period. However, keeping an animal tethered for long periods is never acceptable.



12. If a dog is chained or tethered for a period of time, can it be done humanely? Animals who must be kept on a tether should be secured in such a way that the tether cannot become entangled with other objects. Collars used to attach an animal should be comfortable and properly fitted; choke chains should never be used. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably. Animals should never be tethered during natural disasters such as floods, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes or blizzards.



13. What about attaching a dog's leash to a "pulley run"? Attaching a dog's leash to a long line—such as a clothesline or a manufactured device known as a pulley run—and letting the animal have a larger area in which to explore is preferable to tethering the dog to a stationary object. However, many of the same problems associated with tethering still apply, including attacks on or by other animals, lack of socialization and safety.



14. What can be done to correct the problem of tethering dogs? More than 100 communities in more than 30 states have passed laws that regulate the practice of tethering animals. Maumelle, Ark., and Tucson, Ariz., completely prohibit the unattended tethering of dogs. Many other communities only allow tethering for limited periods of time or during certain conditions. Orange County, Fla., for example, does not allow tethering between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or during times of extreme weather.



15. Why should a community outlaw the continuous chaining or tethering of dogs? Animal control and humane agencies receive countless calls every day from citizens concerned about animals in these cruel situations. Animal control officers, paid at taxpayer expense, spend many hours trying to educate pet owners about the dangers and cruelty involved in this practice.



A chained animal is caught in a vicious cycle; frustrated by long periods of boredom and social isolation, he becomes a neurotic shell of his former self—further deterring human interaction and kindness. In the end, the helpless dog can only suffer the frustration of watching the world go by in isolation—a cruel fate for what is by nature a highly social animal. Any city, county, or state that bans this practice is a safer, more humane community.

Continuously Chaining A Dog Is Inhumane And Dangerous - Part 1.

1. What is meant by "chaining" or "tethering" dogs?
These terms refer to the practice of fastening a dog to a stationary object or stake, usually in the owner's backyard, as a means of keeping the animal under control. These terms do not refer to the periods when an animal is walked on a leash.

2. Is there a problem with continuous chaining or tethering?
Yes, the practice is both inhumane and a threat to the safety of the confined dog, other animals and humans.

3. Why is tethering dogs inhumane?
Dogs are naturally social beings who thrive on interaction with human beings and other animals. A dog kept chained in one spot for hours, days, months or even years suffers immense psychological damage. An otherwise friendly and docile dog, when kept continuously chained, becomes neurotic, unhappy, anxious and often aggressive.

In many cases, the necks of chained dogs become raw and covered with sores, the result of improperly fitted collars and the dogs' constant yanking and straining to escape confinement. Dogs have even been found with collars embedded in their necks, the result of years of neglect at the end of a chain. In one case, a veterinarian had to euthanize a dog whose collar, an electrical cord, was so embedded in the animal's neck that it was difficult to see the plug.

4. Who says tethering dogs is inhumane?
In addition to The Humane Society of the United States and numerous animal experts, the U. S. Department of Agriculture issued a statement in the July 2, 1996, Federal Register against tethering:

"Our experience in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act has led us to conclude that continuous confinement of dogs by a tether is inhumane. A tether significantly restricts a dog's movement. A tether can also become tangled around or hooked on the dog's shelter structure or other objects, further restricting the dog's movement and potentially causing injury."

5. How does tethering or chaining dogs pose a danger to humans?
Dogs tethered for long periods can become highly aggressive. Dogs feel naturally protective of their territory; when confronted with a perceived threat, they respond according to their fight-or-flight instinct. A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her territory.

Numerous attacks on people by tethered dogs have been documented. For example, a study published in the September 15, 2000, issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association reported that 17 percent of dogs involved in fatal attacks on humans between 1979 and 1998 were restrained on their owners' property at the time of the attack.

Tragically, the victims of such attacks are often children who are unaware of the chained dog's presence until it is too late. Furthermore, a tethered dog who finally does get loose from his chains may remain aggressive, and is likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and pets.

6. Why is tethering dangerous to dogs?
In addition to the psychological damage wrought by continuous chaining, dogs forced to live on a chain make easy targets for other animals, humans, and biting insects. A chained animal may suffer harassment and teasing from insensitive humans, stinging bites from insects, and, in the worst cases, attacks by other animals. Chained dogs are also easy targets for thieves looking to steal animals for sale to research institutions or to be used as training fodder for organized animal fights. Finally, dogs' tethers can become entangled with other objects, which can choke or strangle the dogs to death.

7. Are these dogs dangerous to other animals?
In some instances, yes. Any other animal that comes into their area of confinement is in jeopardy. Cats, rabbits, smaller dogs and others may enter the area when the tethered dog is asleep and then be fiercely attacked when the dog awakens.

How Therapy Dogs Help.

Kallee was a Certified Therapy Dog from 1995 until she passed away in 2005. Read her story on this blog.

This is just one of many, many stories of how a therapy dog helps people cope.

Five-year-old Kelsey was a patient staying at Ronald McDonald House in Cincinnati. A tracheal tube made it impossible for her to speak, but she didn’t have to utter a word to make an instant friend in Duncan, a smiley 3-year-old Westie. Using simple hand gestures, she was able to ask Duncan to sit, roll over and shake hands. Words couldn’t describe how that made Kelsey, and everyone else in the room, feel. “I think even Duncan had tears in his eyes,” says Clifton Lin, Duncan’s owner.

Duncan is one of 15,000 certified therapy dogs in the country. Therapy dogs are trained to provide affection and comfort to people in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and even disaster areas. In some cases they also play an integral role in the treatment process. For example, a therapy dog could play fetch with a stroke patient but bring the ball back to the affected side to help promote use of that arm again. The positive effects of animal therapy visits can be both emotional and physical.

The opportunity to connect with a friendly and loving therapy dog can help lift a lonely patient’s spirits, while the turning, reaching, and stretching of playing with an animal can help encourage mobility in other patients. Studies have shown that even the simple act of petting a dog can reduce blood pressure and promote the release of “feel good” hormones in the body. For more information on pet therapy or to find out about sharing the happiness of your dog with others you can visit Therapy Dogs International at www.tdi-dog.org.

Dog - Proofing Your Home.

You may think your home is perfectly safe, but it may not be - especially when viewed by your dog. To your dog the cleaning products in your cupboard may be especially interesting. And although they are stored in a cupboard, your dog may not find them very difficult to get to. Most dogs are very adept at using their paws and muzzle to nudge things like cupboard doors open.


Child-proof locks are a good idea for keeping household items that may be dangerous to your dog safely out of his reach. If you get a second dog, don't assume that because your first dog isn't curious about the floor wax your new dog will follow suit. In fact, your new dog is likely to be interested in everything in your home because it's all new to him. Take a tour through your home, looking at each room through a dog's eye view. The following will give you an idea of what to look for.


Garbage receptacle: Make sure that your garbage receptacle has a tight fitting lid. Most dogs love to nose around in garbage when they have the opportunity and items such as candy wrappers and chicken bones can be choking hazards. Chocolate can be poisonous to your dog, and food that has spoiled can make him very ill.


Electrical cords: Chewing behavior is common to most dogs and cords can be very appealing. Cords should be coiled and tucked away, even if this means rearranging your furniture. A bit of careful thought about how to keep cords safely unavailable to your dog's teeth may prevent him from being electrocuted.


Cleaning supplies, disinfectants, shampoos and perfumes: These items may smell, and even taste, great to your dog but they should be kept safely out of his reach as they can make him very ill. Household cleaning supplies should be kept in a high cupboard that your dog can't reach, or in a cupboard protected by a child-proof lock. Shampoos shouldn't sit on the side of your tub where your dog might easily reach them. Instead use a shower caddy or a high cupboard or shelf to keep them away from curious canines.


Jewelry and loose change: Jewelry is often of the right size to be easily swallowed by most dogs, and is dangerous to your dog as he may choke on it. The same goes for loose change that is left lying about. Some coins, for example pennies, contain zinc which can cause vomiting, anemia, or even death if ingested by your dog.


Garbage bags and nylons: Garbage bags can be very tempting to most dogs but they are dangerous because it's easy for your dog to get tangled up in them, and this could lead to suffocation. Nylons are also very tempting toys and can obstruct your dog's intestine if swallowed.


Plants: Many are toxic in live or dried form. Ask your nursery for a complete reference on plants you want to purchase. When in doubt, keep the plants well out of your dog's reach.


Nails, screws, needles: These are small, easily overlooked objects in your home that are easily swallowed and very dangerous to your dog.


Medication: If your dog swallows your medication he will usually become ill. Ibuprofen can cause kidney damage or gastric ulcers in dogs. To keep your dog safe, medication should never be within his reach.


The best rule of thumb when dog-proofing your home is to follow the same steps you would if you were child-proofing your home. Take a careful walk through each room and place any items that could harm your dog safely out of his reach.

Not Long Enough!

One of the men sentenced in the Michael Vick dog fighting case was released from federal prison Thursday after completing his 2 month sentence. Just 2 months, how ridiculous! He cooperated with the Federal government to testify against Vick and 2 other men.


Vick is serving a 23 month sentence in one of the toughest prisons in America, the U.S. Penitentiary in Leavenworth, KS. Personally, I think the sentence is too light. But, with the conviction of this idiot, dog fighting has been brought out of the shadows and into the public eye.


It is a shame that it takes someone famous getting caught to shed light on this horrid blood sport. Dog fighting has been going on for centuries, literally! You can find out more about dog fighting and the law in earlier posts on this blog.

Warm Weather Brings Increase In Attacks on Children by Chained Dogs.

Chance says that "he is thankful that he was adopted into his family, or he might be tied out to a tree."

Mothers Against Dog Chaining warns against danger of chaining dogs, especially in springtime when attacks increase four-fold. Dogs that spend their lives on chains often become neurotic, aggressive and pathologically protective of the patch of dirt where they spend their lives. Frustrated and unsocialized, chained dogs pose a year-round danger to unsuspecting children who approach these dogs. However, children are especially vulnerable in the springtime, according to Mothers Against Dog Chaining, an initiative of non-profit Dogs Deserve Better.

The groups are dedicated to ending the suffering endured by chained dogs and to educating the public about the dangers chained dogs pose to America's children. Since 2003, when Mothers Against Dog Chaining began monitoring attacks nationwide that result in serious injury or death, it has traditionally seen an increase every spring when the warmer weather beckons more children outside and chained dogs can be especially frustrated after another lonely, agonizing winter.

In 2007, Mothers Against Dog Chaining logged 81 serious attacks on children by chained dogs. Thirty of these attacks - more than one-third of the entire year's attacks-occurred in April and May alone. Of the 81 attacks logged in 2007, 8 resulted in the death of a child. "Our records include only those attacks serious enough to make the newspapers, and include only those we are able to locate," explains Tammy Grimes, founder of Mothers Against Dog Chaining and Dogs Deserve Better.

"There are many more attacks that unfortunately go unmentioned and unreported. We encourage any parents of children who've been attacked by chained or penned dogs to get in touch with our organization so we can log their info and include their story."The fact pattern leading up to the death in July 2007 of Tiffany Pauley, a 5-year-old Atlanta girl with Down Syndrome, is typical of many of these attacks: a child wanders into a neighbor's yard and wants to pet the chained dog, but the angry, perpetually chained animal attacks when it feels its space is threatened.

The dog's caretakers then claim that there was nothing they could have done, unaware that the very method of confinement to which they subjected their dog led directly to the animal's aggression. "Children are dying because of the misguided belief in certain segments of our society that it is appropriate to chain a dog to a tree and leave it there to pace the same patch of dirt and excrement for years on end," says Miranda Riane, the mother of an 8-year-old boy who was seriously mauled by a chained dog in November 2007. "Myson did nothing but run past a dog that spent its life on a short chain. He paid the price for the owner having taken the negligent and "easy way out" with regard to caring for her dog.

"In part because of the public safety issues posed by perpetually chained dogs, a number of states, cities and counties have started passing laws addressing how long people can chain their dogs. California and Texas recently passed statewide laws that put specific time limits on chaining and a number of other states, including Pennsylvania and South Carolina, are currently considering similar legislation.

source: http://www.ddb.org/

Tips To Keep Your Pet Safe At Easter.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Spring has sprung and it's almost time for the Easter bunny to make his rounds. But before you start celebrating, here are five tips for keeping your pet safe and happy this holiday weekend.

1. Pass on Poisonous Plants. Some popular plants—including Easter lilies—are highly toxic to pets and can easily prove fatal if eaten.

2. Resist Pet Purchases. Bunnies, chicks, ducks and other animals are adorable, but resist the urge to buy or adopt a pet on impulse. People often forget that these cute little animals grow up into adult animals who require a commitment to provide daily care for the rest of their lives. Remember bringing any animal, including small animals like rabbits and chicks, into your home places demands on your time and financial resources and should be done only after carefully assessing your family's ability to meet the animal's needs.

3. Ditch the Dangerous Decor. Easter basket decorations, including plastic grass, are dangerous to animals if ingested. The grass can become twisted within a pet's intestines and can be fatal if not caught quickly enough. Often, the only solution is expensive surgery. Candy wrappers, plastic eggs and small toy parts can also pose a danger to critters. Keep your pet out of harm's way by using tissue paper instead of plastic grass and doing a thorough clean-up after Easter celebrations.

4. Give Your Pet Some Peace. Consider your pets when planning family gatherings or parties at home. Loud noises, erratic movements from children and crowds of people can be very stressful for animals. If your pet isn't up for the chaos of an Easter egg hunt or family dinner, put him/her in a quiet area of the house when guests are visiting.

5. Bag the Basket Booty. Keep your pet out of the Easter basket and away from candy, including chocolate. Candy can be harmful to pets, and chocolate is toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets. As many of you pet owners know, animals will eat just about anything that they can find, including Easter treats.

Chocolates and candies that are high in sugar and caffeine are especially bad for our animal companions. Every pet owner should make an effort to keep these foods out of the reach of their furry friends.

Educating children in what is good and bad for the family pet is very important.

For a total list of all the toxic plants go to: http://majordogquestions.blogspot.com/ and type in toxic plants in the search blog box, click search and then scroll to the bottom. The list is too extensive for this blog.

Nothing To Do With Abuse.

I am asking for people to please pray for my friend's son, Josh. He is in a hospital in PA. and he is a very sick young man. Prayer has helped a lot of people through very rough times. Thank you. Tamara

A Head's Up.

In the classifieds of the Herald Dispatch, there is an ad for basic obedience classes that will be held in Milton, WV. I called the number to get some information on the person that is doing the training. She said she teaches in Jackson Cty. WV and is certified to train people for the Canine Good Citizen test, or CGC as it is known.

I asked the one question that I feel is pertinent. Do you allow the use of pinch collars? Her answer was "Yes." Of course, she went on to say that she doesn't allow them unsupervised. I am sorry, but using a pinch collar is not necessary. They are cruel and unnecessary. Any trainer that uses a pinch collar, uses them because they use pain to get the dog to do the command quicker, thus the faster the dog is trained, the more money they can make with more dogs.

I call it "assembly line" training. I have post on basic obedience commands that talks about this. She had the nerve to ask me if I was alright, because I sounded strange because of the questions I was asking. She also said I was not the first call she had asking her questions about her credentials. This put a red flag up in my head.

If you are thinking of putting your dog in a class, call the facility and ask if you can come and view a class that is currently going on. If you like what you see, then make arrangements to have your dog put in a class with that trainer. Pain is not the way to train!

*****On the subject of pinch or prong collars, the statements made by me are from experience in working and training dogs for many years. I AM NOT a certified trainer and take no money for training any one's dog, but know that this type of collar, from my experience , is unnecessary. With the right approach, any dog, no matter how thick skinned or coated, will work for you without using this type of training device.*****

Why Would Someone Be Cruel To Their Pet?

Chance and his stuffie, Mr. Puppy say - Stop Animal Abuse!

All too frequently we read of sickening cases of cruelty to pets in local and national newspapers. Why is it, we ask, that some "human" creatures inflict suffering upon other creatures that are usually smaller and defenseless? Why do they take pets into their homes only to treat them with less than respect and with a great deal of contempt?


Often the reason these animal abusers obtain a pet is the same reason that they end up treating the animal cruelly. And that reason is control. They may not consciously think "I need something to control, so I will get myself a pet," but the fact remains that rarely do these people keep a pet just for companionship and something to love, but to have a living thing under their control.


People that deliberately hurt animals do so because it gives them a feeling of power. Perhaps these "people'" feel undervalued within their family, or within society. Perhaps they have an inflated sense of how much they should be valued. Hence, these sick beings take out their frustrations on helpless pets.


Often sadistic acts of animal abuse are one step away from abusing humans. In a shocking amount of cases, those that commit terrible acts of violence to people, serial killers, child abusers, spouse beaters and rapists have a history of animal abuse. As a youth Albert DeSalvo (the Boston strangler) trapped cats and dogs in crates and abused them. Peter Kurten (the Dusseldorf vampire) started torturing dogs as a boy and carried the vile practice into adulthood. Brenda Spencer fired rifle shots at school children, wounding nine and killing two. Neighbors of the murderess reported that she often abused cats and dogs, sometimes by setting their tails on fire.


A study in 1997 discovered that 40% of animal abusers had committed acts of violence against people. In another study, a history of abusing animals was found in 46% of those found guilty of sexual homicide. The sensational high profile examples, such as serial killers, are but the tip of the iceberg, in many, many cases of spouse battering, child abuse, etc. pet cruelty is also a factor in the home. It's a sad fact that all too often we read reports in the news papers of someone found guilty of cruelty to their pet which is a sick terrible thing in itself, but often that is only half the story.


In an extensive survey of abused wives who kept pets, over half reveled that their abusing partners had harmed, and in some cases killed, their pets. The fear that the abuser would greatly harm the pet for revenge if she left, kept many of those wives from leaving. Back in 1837 when Charles Dickens wrote Oliver Twist, he created the character Bill Sykes, who was a violent bully that badly abused his dog Bullseye. True to form, the bullying thug was also violent with people, particularly his lady friend Nancy.


Before the end of the novel Sykes attempts to take the life of the child Oliver, and succeeds in killing Nancy. Dickens knew that those that are cruel to pets are dangerous sick people. If you know of anyone who harms their pet, or is cruel to an animal in any way, do not hesitate in reporting them to the authorities. In doing so, you may not only be saving the life of an animal but ultimately, a human being.

Moving On: Remember Your Pets When Relocating

Chance says "Remember your pets if you have to move. They want to go, too."

The HSUS (Humane Society of the United States) urges all pet owners faced with foreclosure to take their pets with them when they relocate. It's a tragic occurrence that's happening every day in America—families are being forced out of their homes when banks foreclose on their mortgages. But just because a family loses its home doesn't mean that the family pet must lose both his home and his family.


With a foreclosure crisis sweeping the nation, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is disturbed by reports that some residents forced out of their homes are simply leaving their pets behind. The HSUS urges all pet owners faced with foreclosure to take their pets with them when they relocate. Remember, abandoning your pet(s) is both irresponsible and illegal!

Pet owners may feel financially unable to care for their pets or are overwhelmed by a sudden move, but there are many alternatives to leaving pets behind. Abandoned pets face a grim future. Many pets trapped inside abandoned homes aren't found until they're on the brink of starvation. Those lucky enough to reach a shelter have about a 50 percent chance of being adopted. No one likes to think of leaving their pet at a shelter, but if you can't take him/her with you, it is by far more humane than leaving them in an apartment or a house alone.

Too many animals die alone this way every year. If people are absolutely unable to care for their pet any longer, they should take him or her to their local animal shelter or animal control agency. The shelter can provide food and housing while they try and locate a new home. Plan Ahead! These outcomes can be avoided by planning ahead as much as possible and finding pet-friendly housing.

The following steps can help in the search for pet-friendly rental housing: Give yourself enough time. If possible, check ads and contact real estate agents and rental agencies at least six weeks before you plan to move or when you first learn that foreclosure and/or eviction may be in your future. Make use of available resources. Contact the humane society or animal care and control agency serving the area into which you are moving: the agency may be able to provide you with a list of apartment communities that allow pets.

Gather proof that you're responsible. The more documentation you can provide attesting to your conscientiousness as a pet owner, the more convincing your appeal will be to your future landlord. This can include statements from current property managers and neighbors that you maintain your pet responsibly, as well as copies of veterinary records showing ongoing pet care.

Get it in writing. Once you have permission from a landlord, manager or condominium committee to have a pet, be sure to get it in writing. Comprehensive agreements protect people, property and the pets

Has Our Society Become "Shoot First, Ask Questions Later?"

In the Herald 's, Letter to the Editor, dated 3/17/08, a writer had a letter about the dog that was shot and maimed and had to be put down by the owners relative. The person was wondering why nothing more had been said about this incident. On the website, www.petabuse.com, I looked up the case. It seems they have no concrete suspects.

After researching more, I was looking at some of the comments that had been left about this article. Some are saying that the dog had bitten before and was running loose. On the case file, it said that the dog was unleashed or loose. Either way, if the dog was on the owners property, the shooter was in violation of trespass laws. If the dog was loose and not on the owners property, then the law states that the animal control could be called.

But, shooting the dog, if it had not attacked anyone, was definitely wrong. It seems that it is a he said, she said problem right now. Unfortunately, unless it is a case of animal abuse that the Prosecuting Attorney's office deems bad enough, they do not feel it is a "priority." This is so sad. If we, as a society, allow people to just shoot first and then ask questions later, we are on the brink of ruin. Like the letter writer stated, if you can just shoot a dog, on the basis it is too loud, are children next that laugh too loud when playing outside?

In Memory Of A Great Therapy Dog - From Lost To Found.

This is Kallee and her favorite hat. She was my first Therapy Dog. She was certified by Therapy Dogs, Int'l. She also had her Canine Good Citizen certificate. Kallee, CTD, CGC - 1993-2005.

When I found Kallee, she was a starving little dog of about 4-5 mo. old. She went through basic obedience and advanced obedience with a great man named Billy Shaffer, owner of Labradite Kennels in Mink Shoals, WV. She took to her work like a duck to water. One day we were called, by a friend of mine. She knew of a man that was Autistic and had been bed ridden for 4 yrs. and had ceased movement for the last year of those 4. I work independently, so I took Kallee and we went to see him. When we went in, we were taken to his room and I saw this little man, wasted away from just lying there.

I put Kallee's mat down right by the head of his bed and told her to sit. I then asked the caregiver if I could place his hand on her head. She said yes. I gently placed his oh, so small, hand on her head. Kallee just sat there. She looked like a statue. Maybe 5 min. went by, and I was talking with the caregiver, and I heard her give the slightest of sounds. I looked over, and one of his fingers was moving and kind of tapping her head. We were speechless.

Normally, therapy dogs are rotated so that people get a variety. But, they wanted Kallee back the next week. We continued visiting this man for 4 months. In the 4th month, he was sitting up in bed and using his hands. It is a story that will be with me forever. She was special. When she certified, the judge called her an "old spirit" that had been handed down to her by another spirit. She was my companion until she passed away peacefully in her sleep, May, 15, 2005. Sit by the right hand of God, baby girl. You are missed every day.

I now have a 3 yr. old yellow Lab named Major B Chance or Chance, for short. He was 12 wks. old when she died. He had been with us and Kallee for 2 mo. Before she died, when I would work Chance on his obedience in the yard, I would have to work her first. Then she would come around on my right and Chance on my left. This next part is the truth: if Chance didn't do something right, she would circle out, go behind me, and bump him in the bottom with her nose.

Since she was part Smooth Collie and part Australian Shepherd, she had that long Collie nose. It was so, so funny. He was sitting by her head, and her little ear was wet, (where he had chewed on it, trying to wake her), when I went to wake them and let them out. Chance used to hang on the same ear, as she would walk around the yard. He was certified in Aug. '07 for therapy. Visit Therapy Dogs International at www.tdi-dog.org.

How To Help Prevent Stress At Bathing Time.

This information is for abused or non-abused dogs.

Do you wonder why your dog gets edgy when you go to bath him/her? Particularly, when you turn on the shower hose and start to wet them down. The sound of the water coming from the shower hose is actually deafening to them. To alleviate this stress, hold the shower head flush with the dogs body. This stops the roaring sound, and it floods the coat for better saturation. Always start with your dogs head and work back toward the tail.

To make sure you have the proper water temperature, test it on your forearm. If the water is uncomfortable, it will be way too hot on your dog. If the water feels comfortable, it will feel nice to your dog. NEVER use cold water. I do not recommend bathing your dog outside. If you have too, heat the water first. Cold water will make your dog sick, believe it or not!

If you have a dog that has cropped ears or prick or semi-prick ears (ears that stand up), put cotton balls in the ears to prevent water entering the ear canal. If you have a dog with fall ears or drop ears, you can hold the ear closed by taking your hand and placing it completely over the ear or use the cotton ball. I prefer to hold the head at a downward slope, instead of holding it up, to keep from getting water up the nose and down into the lungs.

After lathering the coat, depending on the directions of your shampoo, rinse you pet, using the same method as described above. If the coat feels squeaky, it is rinsed properly. If it feels slick, rinse, rinse, rinse. Proper rinsing will keep your dog from having skin problems. (problems not related to food or genetics) Remember to rinse the privates very well, as soap gets in there and irritates.

If you are not comfortable around your dog's face, use a wash cloth. Rinse the cloth and wipe the face very well to get all the shampoo off. If you happen to get soap in the eyes, rinse the eyes with water for about 5 min. and if your dog shows signs of irritation, such as rubbing the eyes with the side of their paw, call your vet immediately. Remember, your vet is important, and will do whatever is necessary to help you. Also, your dog will close his/her eyes as the water runs over them. They react like humans in that aspect.

Remember, DO NOT force the cotton ball down into the ear canal, as this could cause damage. And, don't forget the cotton ball after the bath is complete. I do not recommend using a human hair dryer on a dog. A dog's skin is very thin and not like a humans scalp. Even on low, a hair dryer can burn the dog. Towel drying is the best method for a dog that does not go to a groomer. Also, you can go online and purchase a hand held dryer that is made for dogs. I hope this information helps to get your pet more comfortable when getting their bath.

I Wanted To Share This Information With Everyone.

I saw an ad in the Herald Dispatch classifieds the other day for Pit Bull puppies, specifying a particular bloodline. Curiosity got the better of me, so I emailed John Goodwin at the Humane Society of the United States about fighting dog bloodlines. Here is his reply.

"Tamara, There are some pretty prominent dog fighters in WV. But the Razors Edge and Gotti dogs aren't generally fighters. Those are what they call "blue" pit bulls, due to their bluish fur. They are larger and slower than the smaller fighting dogs, and don't show the game "gameness", the same drive to stay in the fight, even when severely injured. Some of the more popular fighting bloodlines are Redboy-Jocko (shortened to RBJ in many classified ads), Jeep, Mayday, Barracuda, Chinaman, Frisco, Eli and others."

It is disturbing to know that WV has many prominent dog fighters. If anyone has any information on any dogfighting ring busts in WV, please post the information. Thanks.

Desensitization Techniques For More Severe Cases Of Separation Anxiety.

The primary treatment for more severe cases of separation anxiety is a systematic process of getting your dog used to being alone. You must teach your dog to remain calm during "practice" departures and short absences. Experts recommend the following procedure:

Begin by engaging in your normal departure activities (getting your keys, putting on your coat), then sit back down. Repeat this step until your dog shows no distress in response to your activities. Next, engage in your normal departure activities and go to the door and open it, then sit back down. Next, step outside the door, leaving the door open, then return. Finally, step outside, close the door, then immediately return. Slowly get your dog accustomed to being alone with the door closed between you for several seconds.


Proceed very gradually from step to step, repeating each step until your dog shows no signs of distress. The number of repetitions will vary depending on the severity of the problem. If at any time in this process your actions produce an anxiety response in your dog, you've proceeded too fast. Return to an earlier step in the process and practice this step until the dog shows no distress response, then proceed to the next step.


Once your dog is tolerating your being on the other side of the door for several seconds, begin short-duration absences. This step involves giving the dog a verbal cue (for example, "I'll be back"), leaving, and then returning within a minute. Your return must be low-key: Either ignore your dog or greet him quietly and calmly. If he shows no signs of distress, repeat the exercise. If he appears anxious, wait until he relaxes to repeat the exercise. Gradually increase the length of time you're gone.


Practice as many absences as possible that last less than ten minutes. You can do many departures within one session if your dog relaxes sufficiently between departures. You should also scatter practice departures and short-duration absences throughout the day. Once your dog can handle short absences (30 to 90 minutes), he'll usually be able to handle longer intervals alone and you won't have to repeat this process every time you are planning a longer absence. The hard part is at the beginning, but the job gets easier as you go along. Nevertheless, you must go slowly at first. How long it takes to condition your dog to being alone depends on the severity of his problem.

Separation Anxiety In Dogs And How To Treat It.

Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit behavior problems when they're left alone. Typically, they'll have a dramatic anxiety response within a short time (20–45 minutes) after their owners leave them. The most common of these behaviors are: Digging, chewing, and scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to escape and reunite with their owners. Howling, barking, and crying in an attempt to get their owner to return. Urination and defecation (even with house trained dogs) as a result of distress.

Experts don't fully understand why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and, under similar circumstances, others don't. It's important to realize, however, that the destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety are not the dog's attempt to punish or seek revenge on his owner for leaving him alone. In reality, they are actually part of a panic response. Abused dogs are not the only dogs that suffer this ailment. Although, they are more prone.

Separation anxiety sometimes occurs:

When a dog accustomed to constant human companionship is left alone for the first time. Following a long interval, such as a vacation, during which the owner and dog are constantly together. After a traumatic event (from the dog's point of view), such as a period of time spent at a shelter or boarding kennel. After a change in the family's routine or structure (such as a child leaving for college, a change in work schedule, a move to a new home, or a new pet or person in the home).

It's essential to correctly diagnose the reason for the behavior before proceeding with treatment. If most, or all, of the following statements are true about your dog, he may have a separation anxiety problem:

The behavior occurs exclusively or primarily when he's left alone.
He follows you from room to room whenever you're home.
He displays effusive, frantic greeting behaviors.
The behavior always occurs when he's left alone, whether for a short or long period of time. He reacts with excitement, depression, or anxiety to your preparations to leave the house. He dislikes spending time outdoors by himself.

What to do if your dog exhibits anxiety behavior: For a minor separation anxiety problem, the following techniques may be helpful by themselves.

Keep arrivals and departures low-key. For example, when you arrive home, ignore your dog for the first few minutes, then calmly pet him. This may be hard for you to do, but it's important!
Leave your dog with an article of clothing that smells like you—such as an old t-shirt that you've slept in recently. Establish a "safety cue"—a word or action that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you'll be back. Dogs usually learn to associate certain cues with short absences by their owners. For example, when you take out the garbage, your dog knows you come right back and doesn't become anxious.<