Good Dog Works!

11/14/2025

Understanding why dogs lick their noses when air sniffing.

Did you know that the tiny vertical groove between a dog’s nose and upper lip actually has a purpose? It’s called the vegetal groove (or philtrum), and it’s not there by accident!
Each time a dog licks its lips, a bit of saliva collects in that groove. Through a process called capillarization, the moisture travels up to the nose — helping keep it damp.
And why does that matter? Because a moist nose is much better at capturing and holding scents from the air. That’s part of what makes a dog’s sense of smell so incredibly powerful!

11/13/2025

11/12/2025

Sound like your dog is coughing up a fur ball? It is likely the sound of Canine or Kennel Cough making its annual Fall appearance. Update your Bordatella vaccination!
Here's some things to know;
Canine Cough
Please keep coughing dogs at home until at least a week after the last cough!
Canine Cough is a highly contagious, generally air borne upper respiratory infection which can be caused by bacteria or a virus often compared to the human cold. The most common form of Canine Cough is caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. The lining of the trachea and bronchi become inflamed and when air passes over them it results in an irritating cough that sounds like gagging or coughing up a hairball.
The Symptoms
Symptoms generally begin 3 - 10 days after exposure. Canine Cough often sounds like your dog has got something caught in the back of his throat and he is trying to cough it up. He may also cough up white frothy foam. The dog is usually quite well (apart from the cough) with a normal temperature and usually engages in normal activities. They seldom lose their appetite. Coughing can become worse on exertion and can continue day and night which can be distressing for the dog's owner.
Complications
Dogs who may have compromised immune systems, puppies and geriatric dogs are more vulnerable to secondary infections. Watch for a raised temperature, lethargy, loss of appetite, eye and nose discharge or coughing up green phlegm as it is possible that a secondary bacterial infection can occur.
Treatment
Uncomplicated cases of canine cough usually resolve themselves without any treatment within 7 - 14 days. For symptomatic relief your vet may prescribe a cough suppressant or short term anti-inflammatory. They may also choose to prescribe antibiotics if the symptoms are severe or to lessen the chance of a secondary bacterial infection.
To aid the recovery of your dog keep them comfortable and reduce any stress. You can remove your dog's collar and use a harness for walks. Encourage him to drink water. Limit exercise.
Prevention
There are vaccines available for canine cough. Specific, non-routine vaccines are also available for Bordetella bronchiseptica. It is important to note that they are not as effective against some strains as others. Some strains are not included in any vaccine; therefore, there is no prevention against them.
Exposure
Your dog may be exposed to Canine Cough while in any social setting including Daycare, dog shows, group dog walks, Veterinary offices, Boarding or Grooming as well as the Dog Park.

11/02/2025

Anyone else's dog starting to give you The End of Daylight Savings Look :) Pictures please!

10/23/2025

An oldie but such a good one!

10/13/2025

Hunting Season is 7 days a week now. Get your orange on :)

10/05/2025

Skunks and porcupines are on the move! Mix hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and small amount of of dish soap. Apply to a skunked but otherwise dry dog. Rinse and repeat as needed.

08/05/2025

It is corn season in the Valley! Although this is great news for us humans, just a friendly reminder that...

🌽❌ Cobs of corn are *NOT* to be fed as a treat to your dogs! ❌🌽

Corn cobs can create intestinal blockages that need to be removed surgically or can ultimately be fatal.

About this time last year, Garth found himself in quite a predicament when he accidentally snacked on a cob of corn he found at random - luckily for Garth, his owner noticed he wasn't feeling well and with the swift work of our team diagnosing an intestinal blockage, we were able to surgically remove the cob and he made a full recovery. ❤️‍🩹

This is Garth's reminder to ensure corn cobs are disposed of properly and please do not ever give them intentionally to your dogs to chew on or play with.

07/17/2025

Paint Your Pet nights are a blast!!

I have done a lot of fundraisers, but I have decided to take the time to do one for myself! My beautiful baby Kodie is going have some costly vet bills, and what better way to help a furry baby then to have a paint your pet night!

On August 15th I’ll sketch your pet for you, and walk you through how to paint your pet! Plus - appetizers are included! I’m super excited for this - and the bar will be open so it should be a great night out!!!

My email is [email protected]

06/08/2025

Just back from Behaviour at the Beach a week of deep learning from Karen Overall and others.
Science, cats, dogs and a tour of clicker trained horses in a reverse round pen! Good friends too! Continuing Education is beneficial for us all!

05/27/2025

An excellent, free workshop based on Turid Rugaas work on leash walking your dog, starts Friday! https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fwggiq63Q/

Pioneering a new standard for ethical dog training worldwide.
We provide ethical, high-quality online education for professionals and dedicated dog lovers worldwide.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

05/11/2025

A lovely sunny afternoon pic by Sonya and a few other characters we get to hang out with! Go on, post the last photo you've taken of your dog or cat...or any pet! We love to see them!