PAWS for Thought Dog Services

28/05/2024

https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/cough-cpr

Our medical expert debunks the 'cough CPR' myth which claims you can help yourself by coughing vigorously if you?re having a heart attack.

02/02/2024

Dogs lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know the pain is coming, you're going to lose a dog, and there's going to be great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with her, never fail to share her joy or delight in her innocence, because you can't support the illusion that a dog can be your lifelong companion. There's such beauty in the hard honesty of that, in accepting and giving love while always aware that it comes with an unbearable price.
Maybe loving dogs is a way we do penance for all the other illusions we allow ourselves and the mistakes we make because of those illusions.

~Dean Koontz

(Book: The Darkest Evening of the Year [ad] https://amzn.to/3So53KR)

(Art: Photograph of Alain Delon by Benjamin Auger)

The Darkest Evening of the Year

17/01/2024

To all PAWS for Thought Dog Services clients!

Hello, dear pet parents! As part of our ongoing commitment to your furry family members' health and safety, we're conducting a thorough review of our records. We kindly ask for your cooperation in ensuring we have the most up-to-date information for your beloved pets.

Here’s how you can help:

Vaccinations: Please provide us with the latest vaccination records.

Medications: If your pet is on any medication, do let us know the details.

Health Updates: Inform us of any changes in your pet’s health since their last visit.

Dietary Needs: Remind us of any special dietary requirements or allergies.

Emergency Contacts: Confirm that we have the correct emergency contact information.

Consent Forms: If there are any outstanding forms, we’ll reach out for your signature.

Your participation is vital in ensuring the best care for your pets. Please drop by our office or contact us to update your records. Together, let’s keep PAWS for Thought Dog Services a safe and happy place for our four-legged friends!

Thank you for your cooperation and trust in us.

Warm regards,
Jill and John @ PAWS for Thought Dog Services.

03/01/2024

✅👍🏻🐕🐾

Understanding dog language is critical for dog guardians. Dogs, like humans, have their own unique ways of communicating.

By learning to interpret their body language guardians can deepen their bond with their dogs and respond more appropriately to their needs. The importance of learning canine language revolves around three main points:

Preventing Misunderstandings

Misinterpretation of a dog's signals can lead to inappropriate reactions. For instance, a dog yawning doesn't always mean they are tired; it can be a sign of stress. By grasping their language, guardians can distinguish between their dog's various signals.

Enhancing Welfare

With better understanding of dog's language, guardians can ensure better welfare. They can address their dog's basic needs effectively, identify signs of stress or discomfort earlier, and take actions to mitigate any potential problems, thereby enhancing the quality of life for their dogs.

Strengthening the Bond

Understanding canine language enhances the guardian-dog relationship. It opens up a new level of understanding as the guardian becomes better equipped to interpret not just their dog's needs, but also its emotional state. This undoubtedly results in a stronger, more satisfying bond.

Learn more about what your dog is saying, with Canine Principles
https://www.canineprinciples.com/course/canine-communication-diploma

29/12/2023

Very interesting information. 🐕🐾✅

The 'pack leader' approach, also often referred to as dominance theory, stems from early studies on captive wolves which suggested that wolves in a pack constantly compete for dominance, with one alpha wolf coming out on top. The theory was then applied to domestic dogs, with the idea being that dogs view their human family as their pack and behave badly because they're trying to assert dominance over their human 'pack members'.

This concept has been widely popularised through various forms of media, including TV shows. However, the dominance or 'pack leader' approach to dog behaviour and training is not supported by current scientific research, and here's why:

Flawed Initial Study:

The initial study that gave rise to the dominance theory was conducted on a group of unrelated, captive wolves. Later studies on wolves in their natural habitat found that wolf packs don't operate on a dominance hierarchy, but are instead structured more like a human family, with parent wolves acting as leaders of their offspring. The original model, therefore, isn't applicable even to wolves, let alone to dogs.

Dogs Are Not Wolves:

Even if wolves did operate on a dominance hierarchy, applying these findings to dogs would be misguided. Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, and while they are related to wolves, they are a separate species with different behaviours and social structures. The way dogs interact with humans is also fundamentally different from how wolves interact with each other.

Misinterpretation of Behaviours:

Many behaviours that are often attributed to 'dominance' or a desire to be a 'pack leader' are usually normal dog behaviours or responses to fear, anxiety, or confusion. For example, a dog that jumps up to greet people might be doing so out of excitement or because they've learned that jumping up gets attention, not because they're trying to assert dominance.

Ineffective and Potentially Harmful:

The 'pack leader' approach often advocates for the use of punishment or aversive techniques to 'show the dog who's boss'. Not only can these methods cause fear and anxiety, but they can also damage the relationship between the dog and their guardian. Positive reinforcement training methods are more effective and build a relationship based on trust and mutual respect, rather than fear.

Contradicts Modern Canine Science:

The overwhelming consensus among modern canine behavioural scientists and veterinarians is that the dominance theory is outdated and incorrect. Dogs, like all animals, are complex beings whose behaviours can't be explained by a simple desire for dominance. They have a wide range of motivations and emotions, and their behaviour is influenced by a variety of genetic, environmental, and situational factors.

In conclusion, the 'pack leader' approach is not a valid or ethical method for understanding or changing dog behaviour. Instead, positive reinforcement and force-free methods should be used to teach dogs desired behaviours, with an emphasis on understanding and meeting the dog's individual needs.

Learn more with the Canine Principles Skill Hub and try before you buy.. https://www.canineprinciples.com/subscription/skill-hub-membership

25/12/2023

Thanks to all for your valuable support in 2023. 🐕🐾👍🏻

12/12/2023

Another boys adventure with my buddy Otis! 👍🏻💙🐾

26/11/2023

Sound advice to consider. 🐕🐾

Repeated ball chasing, if not managed correctly, can have some negative effects on a dog's welfare, both physically and psychologically. Here's how:

Physical Stress:

Dogs often get very excited when playing fetch and may push their bodies to the limit. Repeated, high-impact activities can potentially cause physical stress, leading to acute injuries or chronic wear-and-tear on their joints, particularly in their hips, knees, and shoulders. This is especially concerning for puppies, whose bodies are still growing, and for breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia or other joint issues.

Heat Exhaustion:

Dogs can overheat if they chase balls repeatedly without taking breaks, especially in hot weather. Unlike humans, dogs don't sweat to cool down. They primarily cool themselves by panting, which is less effective than sweating. This puts them at risk of heatstroke, which can be deadly.

Obsessive Behaviour:

Some dogs can become obsessed with ball chasing, to the point where it interferes with other healthy behaviours. They might neglect social interactions, exploration, and rest because they're so focused on the ball. This obsessive behaviour can be indicative of a lack of mental stimulation and can lead to an anxious or stressed state if the dog is not allowed to chase the ball.

Lack of Socialisation:

Dogs who are constantly focused on chasing a ball may miss out on other important aspects of their walks, such as exploring their environment, sniffing (which is mentally stimulating for dogs), and socialising with other dogs. This lack of balanced activity can lead to decreased social skills and general anxiety.

It's not to say that you should completely avoid ball games with your dog. They can be a wonderful form of exercise and a great way to bond.

The key is balance and moderation. Be mindful of the amount of time your dog spends chasing balls, ensure they get plenty of breaks, provide adequate hydration, and encourage a variety of other activities to stimulate them mentally. As always, it's important to pay attention to your dog's signals and needs.

Learn how to help your dog have the best life, which will naturally make their behaviour more settled, through the Canine Principles Skill hub. Try before you buy https://www.canineprinciples.com/subscription/skill-hub-membership

06/11/2023

👍🏻🐾

Just as it's important to respect the personal space of people and refrain from touching them without their explicit invitation, the same respect should be shown toward dogs.

Dogs, much like people, have their own comfort zones and may not always welcome unsolicited physical contact. They communicate their boundaries through body language.

A dog that is open to interaction typically appears relaxed, may approach with a wagging tail, and have a generally friendly demeanour.

On the other hand, if a dog does not wish to be touched, they might turn away, move back, or show signs of discomfort such as stiffening, looking away or licking their lips.

It's crucial to observe and respect these signals.

Forcing interaction upon a dog who has not invited contact can lead to stress for the dog and, in some cases, may provoke an anxious or defensive response.

Understanding and teaching others to recognise and respect a dog’s personal space is part of responsible behaviour around animals. It ensures that interactions are positive and consented to by the dog, fostering a safer and more respectful environment for everyone involved.

27/10/2023

Sound advice as ever! 👍🏻🐕🐾

07/10/2023

Can we please stop expecting that EVERY dog wants to go to dog parks, daycares, patio parties and have birthday parties with other dogs! Nobody loves dogs more than me, but I’m here to tell you that dogs aren’t human children. They don’t want to do everything a human child does. Breed can matter when deciding what is fun for your best friend. Your Husky may have the energy to run, your Retriever may want to retrieve and your terrier may want to chase and grab. So yes, raising them with kindness is paramount, but paying attention to their needs is too. I said it.

This mentality that every dog has to be “social” with other people and dogs is keeping my shelter full, my days long and my heart broken, because I see the best dogs passed over, because they wouldn’t do well at a dog park or daycare. Not every dog needs to like your friends. I keep my dog in his room when people come over, because he isn’t comfortable around everyone, and I don’t want to set him up for failure. Love your dog enough to respect her boundaries.

Your dog doesn’t want to meet every dog. The reality show you watched about dog training and dog adoption is fake, I’ve worked in television, it’s edited to create a good story, not necessarily a real story. Let’s stop these narratives on dog ownership that are SOLD to us and based on making money. Dogs aren’t a business they are our best friends. Remember that.

Your dog can be perfectly safe and happy without overstimulating daycare or doggy birthday parties. Those things are fun for some dogs, but not for all. I want to take my dog everywhere, I want to give my dog the things I would want, but for the love of dogs in shelters everywhere, let’s ask dogs what do they REALLY want?

Dogs want more sniffs, waterlogged sticks, a quiet place to decompress, a space to stretch their legs and you to respect their body language and boundaries. They are talking to you…listen.

09/09/2023

Just take heed please. Sound advice as always. 🐕🐾

We charge through life.
Imagine how fast paced and confusing that can be for our dogs?
Slowing down and listening can show a dog they are safe and don't need to defend themselves.

08/09/2023

Little Albert is 5 today! Wishing you a Happy Birthday little man. Have a wonderful day. 🎈🎁🎉🎂🍰🥳

27/08/2023

Cuteness overload!!!!!? 🐕🐾

23/07/2023

Please, please take heed! A dog that may take exception could react VERY quickly!!

29/06/2023

You’ve got to love a Lab. (Or two!!) Teddy 💙 & Tay 💙

13/06/2023

I suppose there’s worse ways to pass an hour on a hot summer’s afternoon! 🌞🥵

24/05/2023

This is Part One

Play.
Just a few tips for how to help dogs play well and what to keep an eye out for with play.
A really big myth is dogs just know how to play with others....unfortunately many do not.

Healthy play relies on the individual dogs ability to read both vocal, postures and body signals. Unfortunately some dogs have not had the chance to develop healthy play styles....and that is an issue when we expect dogs to play well together.

They struggle to read appropriate play....and they struggle to play appropriately.

You can help your dog and how they interact with others.
Play can be improved and guided by our interventions and watchful eye.

Some common issues with play include the following.......

Letting it go on and on......
You may have noticed this yourself that after 5, 10, 15 minutes it may become faster, far more physical and almost frantic. Nipping may get harder and faster. There is no "order" to playing now. It has changed to over arousal.....and it should stop.
It should have stopped before that stage.
If play is allowed to get to that hyper, frantic play......signals are not given well, and not received well....and that can lead to big issues.

Expecting dogs to play with other dogs.
Dogs do not need to play with other dogs, in fact it is healthy to be choosy with who they interact with.
Dogs have the right to consent to play or not.
Just because we wish them to play does not mean they consent.

Pairing dogs with different play styles and energy can cause big problems...A dog that constantly chases may not read the "cut off" signals given by the less energetic dog.
Being frantically chased is not play.

The time to stop play (as strange as it sounds) is when they are still playing well.....or at the first sign of one dog giving signals it is over for now.
Sniffing.
Scratching.
Walking away.
Seeking you out.
Becoming suddenly very interested in anything other than the dog they were playing with....that helps dogs understand signals given....they will start to make the connection.

Always listen to the little voice inside....and if you are at all unsure, advocate and stop play, or don't allow it to even start.

Never let dogs just "work it out" because they might....and you may not like how some will.

24/05/2023

😂🤣🐕🐾

🤣🤣🤣

Credit memes

23/05/2023

Continuing with the play theme from yesterday.....a repost but important.
Dogs read energy. However many dogs playing misread situations as they are usually in a hyper aroused state. Pushy play.....some dogs just don't read the subtilties of play.
Pushy dogs have an over bearing play style with others. Some dogs react badly to pushy play styles.....and they can react very badly.
Many dog fights are started or involve dogs that have developed unwanted play styles or behaviour when playing.

There are a few areas of dog behaviour which are very misread by humans and play is certainly one of them.

Pushy play is usually (but not always) paired with hyperarousal.
Remember that dog that enters a dog park and just goes manic and runs at dog after dog after dog.....or maybe you have noticed that calm dogs sometimes change their whole play style.
You may have noticed that after a few minutes of play....things change....one or both of the dogs play styles change and many change into pushy/rude play.

You can help this by stopping play when it is GOOD play, before an issue...not when it turns and there is a big issue.
Unfortunately many dogs have become reactive from pushy dogs and letting the play "turn"....or worse they are left to "sort it out".

I am all for dogs teaching others how to play.....but if the dog that is teaching has a rude play style the student will learn nothing but how to cause some very big issues.

If dogs are left to "sort it out" they will and the results are usually horrendous. Many people that have the pushy dog don't mind or don't notice that their dog has a problematic play style.

So...if you can, stop the play before it turns.
Read the signals ALL dogs give and save yourself an incident.

12/05/2023

A minute in the very busy life of Obi Wan! 💙🥰🐾

08/05/2023

A quiet day with just Willow & Oscar. They’re so laid back. 😀💖💙🐾🥰

28/04/2023

Dogs are so wise! We feel privileged to be entrusted to care for so many, with such different personalities. Some are needy, some are so outgoing, but almost all of them make us laugh. 💙💖🐾🥰😂

23/04/2023

Oscar’s such a funny boy! Don’t know how he manages to keep a straight face!! 💙🤪😂🤣🐾

11/11/2022

Snoop is 8 today and he’s visiting us until Monday!! 🥳💙🥰🐾