Auntie Schelle's Pet Services

  • Home
  • Auntie Schelle's Pet Services

Auntie Schelle's Pet Services Auntie Schelle's Pet Services offers wedding pet valet services, pet sitting and dog training. Feel free to email or call today!!!
(21)

We offer in-home services for all of your pet's needs: pet sitting; grooming; mid-day walks / visits; personalized dog training as well as e-collar training; and Pet Taxi services. We would love to hear from you and meet your 2- and 4-legged family.

13/10/2022

A missing dog got hit by a car and died yesterday. Every dog NEEDS to be wearing a martingale collar, hooked to a harness with someone that can hold a leash if the dog jerks it, at all times. There are just too many lost dogs this year...I'm not sure why, but obviously too many inexperienced people caring for dogs. Yes, accidents happen and that one accident can make a dog get loose, but this year in our little state there is an explosion of lost dogs. Please, please educate your friends and family - it can mean the difference between a happy pet or a lost one. Sending prayers to all those that have lost their pets. May they be found and/or rest in peace. 🙏

Finnegan was SO excited to be the Ring Bearer at his Daddies' wedding. Look at that smile!!!
12/10/2022

Finnegan was SO excited to be the Ring Bearer at his Daddies' wedding. Look at that smile!!!

19/07/2022

I'm excited to announce ...

09/08/2021
08/08/2021

In-home pet sitter needed – MUST have 3+ years’ experience working with other people’s pets!

Auntie Schelle’s Pet Services is looking for pet professionals in MA & RI to provide in-home pet sitting for our amazing clients. Services can be provided either in the client's home or in yours.

Qualifications:
- Previous experience caring for other people's pets or education that supports experience with animals.
- Passion to help and care for animals
- Ability to interact with animals in a calm, non-threatening manner
- Reliability and integrity
- References required

It’s Furry Friday and it’s time for a heartwarming rescue story from The Dodo-
06/08/2021

It’s Furry Friday and it’s time for a heartwarming rescue story from The Dodo-

Woman spots three huge dogs on a mountain — and spends the next month trying to rescue them 💕Follow Grace, Steve and George on Instagram for updates: http:/...

August 6th is Fresh Breath day!  Help get your fur baby the freshest doggy breath around with these great tips.“Bad brea...
03/08/2021

August 6th is Fresh Breath day!
Help get your fur baby the freshest doggy breath around with these great tips.

“Bad breath in dogs might seem like a minor inconvenience, but when it’s your dog with the wicked breath, it’s a huge deal. While there are lots of solutions available, how do you know what works best and when to contact your vet? Two of America’s leading veterinarians; Dr. Marty Becker and Dr. Carol Osborne, along with two popular pet experts have some terrific tips to help your best friend freshen up!

“The good news is that dental disease is completely preventable,” says Dr. Carol Osborne, an integrative veterinarian from the Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic. “I always recommend that my patients follow a simple four-step processes to maintaining healthy teeth and gums for their pets: annual dental check-ups, brush your pet’s teeth daily for 30 seconds (do not use human toothpaste), provide appropriate chew toys and feed some dry food daily. If your pet does not tolerate the brushing well, you may need to consider professional cleaning.” But there are even more ways to fight back against stinky breath.

Here are 10 tips to bust that bad breath in dogs:

1. Brush teeth correctly
The Veterinary Oral Health Council recommends certain products for a thorough teeth cleaning. Try using a doggie toothpaste like Petsmile, the only dog toothpaste given the organization’s seal of approval, along with an ADA-compliant toothbrush. If you’re having a hard time getting Fido to open up, bring this up with your groomer, who should be able to brush your pup’s teeth for you.

2. Chew and chomp
Certain rubber toys such as the Kong Extreme allow you to hide cleaning treats or even dog toothpaste inside. As dogs chew on the toy, their teeth get cleaner and their breath gets fresher.

3. Visit the vet
“New studies show that 80% of pets have dental disease by the age of 3, with many pets showing signs of inflammation — an early sign of periodontal disease — as early as 3 months of age,” says Dr. Marty Becker, a veterinarian and author. He agrees that dogs must be seen by a vet at least once a year.

4. Yapping for yogurt
Sara B. Hansen, owner and editor of “Dog’s Best Life”, suggests using yogurt to remedy bad breath. “Add some plain yogurt to your dog’s daily food allotment. Be sure to only add plain yogurt — no fruity flavors and definitely no sugar substitutes in the yogurt. Sugar substitutes, especially Xylitol, can be deadly for dogs,” she says. “You shouldn’t give your dog more than a teaspoonful or two, and watch to make sure your pup isn’t lactose intolerant. Just like people, some dogs can’t do dairy.”

5. Buy special teeth treats
There are lots of specialized dental care treats on the market. Greenies Dog Dental Treats are among the top rated, and they’re approved for use by the VOHC.

6. Relish some rawhide
As long as you keep a sharp eye on your pet while they’re indulging, rawhide bones are good for banishing plaque. Take it away as soon as it softens up.

7. Pass the parsley
“My favorite home remedy is to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill on the dog’s food,” Hazel Ketko, owner of Natural Dog Health Remedies, says. “These herbs are antibacterial and natural breath fresheners.”

8. Use water additives
Water additives that fight bad breath in dogs are becoming popular with owners because of the ease of use. Petlab Co., for example, makes dental formulas for both cats and dogs.

9. Research dental sealants
If you have a dog breed that’s extra susceptible to decay, ask your vet about dental sealants. They can help keep teeth and gums clean, preventing tooth decay and plaque buildup.

10. Let Toto drink tea
If you suspect your dog’s bad breath is due to upset tummy or indigestion, use a special tea, Ketko suggests. “Make a ginger tea by putting one or two slices of fresh ginger in a cup of hot water and letting it cool down,” she instructs. “After removing the ginger slices, give one to two teaspoons of the ginger tea to your dog.”

When to visit the veterinarian:
When in doubt, a trip to the vet’s office is likely the best solution. “In my 35 years as a practicing veterinarian, I’ve seen dozens of products developed that claimed to be an antidote for doggie breath. Most say ‘veterinary recommended’ or ‘veterinary approved,’ but they don’t work,” says Dr. Becker. “Bad breath in dogs and cats is caused by periodontal disease, which is an infection. Infections require treatment.”
Dr. Osborne agrees, adding, “Bad breath is often the first sign of canine dental disease owners recognize. Left untreated, bacteria from your pet’s mouth can lead to liver, kidney and even heart disease.””

(Source www.care.com)

I wanted to share this all-natural flea & tick collar that I have been using for Soldier, Gucci & Sierra for the past 3 ...
03/08/2021

I wanted to share this all-natural flea & tick collar that I have been using for Soldier, Gucci & Sierra for the past 3 months ... it's working great!!!
No toxic chemicals or poisons ... I'm a raving fan!!!

Holisticfamilyandpets.com

Natural Flea, Tick Collars, Healthy Tick Pet collar, Natural Mosquito Repellent,Pet Health, Vitamins Naturally Boost Animals Immune System, No-toxin, No chemicals, 100% Holistic, Natural Pet Care, Non-Toxic, Flea And Tick Collars, Guaranteed Results. Protection for Your Puppies, Dogs, Cats, Kittens,...

This week’s Furry Friday is another feline edition and a special one at that. It celebrates the gotcha dates of these tw...
30/07/2021

This week’s Furry Friday is another feline edition and a special one at that. It celebrates the gotcha dates of these two precious kitty cuties- Dove & Talula.
Adopted August 1st, 2011 & August 4th, 2019.

“I always tell people Dove was a birthday present to myself because I decided I wanted a cat for my 21st birthday...but not just any cat, a shelter cat. Specifically, there were two shelter cats I wanted to meet that had been on the website for a while. So on August 1st I went to an adoption event at the Animal Rescue League of Boston looking for them. The connection with Dove was instant - partially because the other cat was in foster at that point, but that just means Dove was for me. He climbed all over me in the meeting room and finally settled into my lap for a nap. He was everything we wanted. He was playful, affectionate, had lived with cats previously, and he wasn't a kitten. Dove at the time was about 2 1/2 years old and had come from a situation where there were too many cats in the home, and many of them came and went as indoor/outdoor cats. He came to the shelter with a puncture wound to his foot and ear. His tough guy days were over though, and within days he fit in perfectly with my other cat at the time and my black lab mix. Over the years he has lived with different cats and multiple dogs, and he has loved all of them. Dove blends into any crowd and loves his attention from anyone or any animal.

Fast forward to March 2020 and I found myself having to move back in with my family right at the start of the pandemic. It was a really tough time for me personally and Dove was coming with me and leaving the only home he had known for almost 9 years. I knew the people would love him and he'd adjust fairly well being the confident older ginger-gent that he is. But there was a new cat to meet.

My family adopted Talula on August 4th, 2019 a few months after their previous cat had passed. I went with them to another adoption event, this time at the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem, MA. We definitely had a hard time finding a cat to fit their household (no pets, but different people to consider) but we took a chance with this big black and white girl named Talula who everyone there said was "sweet, sweet, sweet". We didn't have a lot of background information on her, just that she came on a transport from New Jersey, and most likely hadn't lived with cats before. That was fine for a while. She settled in fairly quickly and although she has some quirks we don't think we'll ever figure out, she quickly became a velcro-cat. Always with her people, always wanting a scratch, and was the perfect medicine for a home with a broken heart.

When I moved back in with my family, it was a project to introduce the two cats....and it took a very long time for them to adjust (mainly Talula). I began working from home shortly after moving back so I got to spend a lot of time nurturing my relationship with Talula and the relationship between her and Dove. The last year and a half would have been extremely tough without watching these two connect and learn to love each other. Focusing on them helped me mentally and emotionally, and who wouldn't smile at the antics of cats. The pandemic started with Talula wanting to run and hide, or turn to fight, and it has ended with naptime cuddles and play chasing. Seeing their relationship now is so fulfilling and they complete this home.

I've been a volunteer at the Animal Rescue League of Boston for 2 years now, the shelter I adopted Dove from a decade ago. There are hard days in there, but the rewarding days always outnumber the hard ones. Getting to see families and individuals find their new companion brings me so much joy. Absolutely ridiculous levels of joy, it's the most amazing feeling. If you've welcomed a shelter animal into your home, you know everything about how rewarding it really is...and you probably also know how hard it is for me to fit everything in this short story. I just know my family would not be complete and my heart not as full without these two.”

The 'aunties' here at Auntie Schelle's Pet Services have the best pups to hang out with!!!
27/07/2021

The 'aunties' here at Auntie Schelle's Pet Services have the best pups to hang out with!!!

Today’s Furry Friday is a tale of a itty bitty kitty who found her furever home, in my very own home. This is the story ...
23/07/2021

Today’s Furry Friday is a tale of a itty bitty kitty who found her furever home, in my very own home. This is the story of my Sadie Baby.

- Auntie Colleen

You could say we found Sadie or Sadie found us..

We had been looking for a kitten for the family for quite some time but it had never worked out. Until one fall day 8 years ago. My then 7 year old son and our neighbor went to go feed the neighbor’s sister’s cats that lived in the basement. Little did he know what he was about to find.

3 cats in complete squalor. The tiniest being almost one year old “Mavie”. There were f***s everywhere. Mavie was kept from the food and litter by her mother and another cat in no relation to them.

My son quickly fed the cats and came home to tell me what he had found. I then reached out to the sister of the neighbor asking if we could please have Mavie. She did not hesitate to say yes and then deliver the poor traumatized white and tan tabby kitty to us in a cardboard box. I was informed she had been to two homes prior to us, nothing more about her age or anything.

Mavie was then given the name Sadie. We honestly barely saw this skittish, itty bitty malnourished kitty for the first 3 months of her being here. It took Sadie years to get to where she is now. Now at around 9 years old and 9 lbs she is still very skittish, she doesn’t allow us pick her up and everything is on her terms but she is the sweetest most lovey girl. She is our Sadie Baby and we are so glad we found each other.

The 'aunties' here at Auntie Schelle's Pet Services get / got to enjoy these beauties over the past 2 weeks.
21/07/2021

The 'aunties' here at Auntie Schelle's Pet Services get / got to enjoy these beauties over the past 2 weeks.

This week’s Tuesday Tips is all about staying safe when swimming with your dog 🌊🐶Have fun, stay cool and be safe this Su...
20/07/2021

This week’s Tuesday Tips is all about staying safe when swimming with your dog 🌊🐶

Have fun, stay cool and be safe this Summer! 💜🐾

(Source pets.webmd.com)

“Water can be a great source of fun for you and your dog. Before you take your pooch out for a paddle, though, make sure you know how to keep things safe.

Swimming

You might think canines are natural-born swimmers, but that isn’t always the case.
There’s no sure way to gauge your pal's swimming skills until you introduce them to H2 O and teach them the basics:

* Choose a quiet, shallow spot in the water.

* Keep your dog on a leash while they learn.

* Get into the water with them.

* Start at the edge of the water, and stay as long as they enjoy it.

* If they don't want to go, don’t force them in -- especially if it’s a deep spot.

* When your dog begins to paddle with their front legs, lift their hind legs to show them how to float.

The younger your buddy is when you teach them to swim, the better. Keep the lesson positive and stress-free for them.

At the Beach

While you enjoy the surf with your pal, keep these tips in mind:

* Watch out for strong currents and riptides, which can take you both out to sea. Even the best swimmer can be in danger when seas are rough.

* Don’t let your dog drink ocean water. It can make them sick. Bring fresh H2O with you to keep them hydrated.

* Keep your pal away from fish that have washed onto the shore. They may smell great to them, but they can make them ill.


In the Pool
Got a swimming hole in your backyard? Keep it Fido-friendly with these steps:
* Put a fence around it to keep your dog out when it isn’t time to swim.
* Keep a sturdy cover over it when you aren’t using it. It should be made of a material that lets rainwater drain through. Dogs can drown in puddles on top of pool covers.
* Teach your dog how to get in and out. Make sure there are steps or a ramp they can use to climb out.
* Check the water temperature before letting your dog take a dip. Only a few breeds can handle extra-cold water.

In a River, Lake, or Pond

Keep these tips in mind when you’re at Mother Nature’s water park:

* Get your dog a life jacket, especially if you take them out on a boat or a dock.

* Steer clear of bodies of water with blue-green algae. It can make your buddy sick.

* Check the current of a river or a creek. Make sure it isn’t too strong to let your dog swim.

* Keep your pal away from fishing gear. Sharp hooks and barbs can hurt them.

General Safety Rules
No matter where your pooch makes a splash, follow these pointers:

* Rinse them off after they have been in any type of water. Seawater minerals, salt, chlorine, algae, and pollution can irritate or damage their skin and fur.

* Remove their flea collar before they swim. Water can wash off its active ingredients.

* Dry your dog’s ears completely to prevent an infection. Try an ear cleaner that has a drying agent in it.

* Learn canine CPR. Mouth-to-nose resuscitation and chest compressions could save a dog’s life in an emergency.

* Never leave your pal alone in the water.”

Little Pani was too nervous to sleep until one day she was able to finally fall asleep without a worry ❤️
16/07/2021

Little Pani was too nervous to sleep until one day she was able to finally fall asleep without a worry ❤️

Rescue dog was too nervous to fall asleep — look at her all curled up in bed now!Keep up with Pani and Tedi on Instagram: http://thedo.do/tedisarah.Additiona...

National Pet Fire Safety Day is the 15th. Here are tips to keep your pet safe incase of a fire. (Source Nationaltoday.co...
13/07/2021

National Pet Fire Safety Day is the 15th. Here are tips to keep your pet safe incase of a fire.

(Source Nationaltoday.com)

National Pet Fire Safety Day takes place every year on July 15, and it’s a day to learn how to keep your pet safe in a fire. For many of us, pets are our most precious asset so it makes sense that we would dedicate a day to keeping them safe during one of the scariest things we can imagine. It was started by the Kennel Club and ADT Security in 2009 to help pet owners learn safety measures to protect their beloved pets and homes from fire, and it’s a great opportunity to learn how to keep your fur baby safe.

NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY FAQS

•How do pets start fires?
The NFPA says a stove or cooktop is the number-one cause of fires started by pets. Electrical cords can sometimes be seen by your dog as a chew toy. When damaged, they can spark and cause electrocution or a fire. Secure any cords and hide them behind furniture or other obstructions.

•How do I get my pet out of a fire?
Keep a collar on your dog, and leashes and cat carriers in an easy-to-access spot near an exit point so you can grab them on your way out.

•Where do you put the pet alert sticker?
Put one on each side of your house or one in every apartment window. Consider a second pack if you need more than 4 alert stickers.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY

* Get this useful decoration�On July 15, get a free Pet Fire Safety Window Cling at your local volunteer firehouse. First responders will see this and know to look out for any pets inside.�
* Share it to save lives�Use to post on social media and raise awareness to friends and family about the day and ways that they can keep their pets safe from fires.�
* Have a fire drill�For families with kids, this tradition is even more important. Discuss your family evacuation plan, designate someone to carry out the pets and execute a fire drill on this day every year.

WHY NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY IS IMPORTANT

* Keep your pets out of trouble�There are many ways to keep your pet from causing a fire. Blow out candles before leaving home, block off access to the kitchen or remove stove k***s if pets can reach it, and keep any and all wires out of chewing distance, especially from kittens and puppies!�
* Have a pet rescue plan in place�Discuss with your family who will be in charge of rescuing your pet in the event of a fire. Planning and practicing fire drills will help the family remain calm and help ensure that your pets are not forgotten during a chaotic evacuation.

* Make rescuers aware of your pets and their hiding places�As part of your evacuation plan, include a list of your pet’s hiding places, so that firefighters will know where to look in case your pets don’t make it out with you. Also, make sure your pets have collars with up to date tags attached in case they escape on their own.�

Fun facts how Pet Fire Safety Day was started:

HISTORY OF NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY
While our animals are oftentimes the culprit behind devastating fires, it’s a little ironic that dogs (specifically dalmations) have become an American icon associated with firefighters today. Let’s briefly explore how that came to be. A few hundred years ago, dogs were trained to trot alongside horse-drawn wagons and protect their occupants (and horses) from harm. Dalmations quickly became the ideal carriage dog for their strength, vitality, fortitude, and size. They also had a reputation for getting along well with horses and were known to have a calming effect while firefighters were battling a blaze. Overtime as motorized fire trucks replaced carriages, Dalmatians and other fire pups were seen less aboard fire trucks and more as on-site firehouse residents and mascots.
Today, many firefighters have pet Dalmatians, and firehouses around the country still have Dalmatians as station dogs. However, Dalmatians aren’t the only dog in the firehouse. It’s become common for firefighters (and sometimes entire fire teams) to adopt dogs rescued from fires. These lucky pups, whatever their breed, become symbols of the resiliency, bravery, and fortitude of firefighters and the individuals they help. They also take important steps into education and helping firefighters demonstrate fire safety and emergency preparedness for schools and community groups across the country. Teaching that pets cause over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States and the preventive measures we can take to protect our beloved companions.

NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY TIMELINE

•13,000 B.C.
People Make Pets
Evidence suggests people bred dogs in Europe and Asia around this time.
•6,000 B.C.
Sacred Dog Burials
Special dog graves include expensive items. Proof of their deep meaning to humans
•1988
Emotional Support Animals Protected
The Fair Housing Amendments Act allows people to keep their ESAs, despite landlords.
•2009
The Awareness Begins
The Kennel Club and ADT Security decided it was time to get serious about pet fire protection.

Xeo had a great time with Auntie Schelle and her pack.What a big lap dog ... he's only 7 months old!
09/07/2021

Xeo had a great time with Auntie Schelle and her pack.
What a big lap dog ... he's only 7 months old!

“PetSafe understands the importance of keeping our pets hydrated so they have named July as “National Pet Hydration Awar...
06/07/2021

“PetSafe understands the importance of keeping our pets hydrated so they have named July as “National Pet Hydration Awareness Month.” In many parts of the country, July is the hottest month of the year and states across the country have also been plagued with hotter-than-usual temperatures for the past few months and there appears to be no end in sight. Because of this, pet parents need to be aware of the amount of water their pets drink.

PetSafe writes in a blog post, “Proper hydration is critical and dehydration has serious and immediate health risks in humans and pets… most pet owners are unaware that their pet’s bodies are made up of a higher water percentage than their own human bodies.” Understand the signs of pet dehydration. Better yet, make sure your pets have access to water all day, every day.

Signs of dehydration in dogs:

• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive panting
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Dry nose
• Thirst
• Dark urine

It’s important to assure your dogs and cats (and feral cats and even wildlife) have access to fresh water each and every day. In the heat of the summer months that is more important for the health of your dogs and cats.

Here are ways to assure your dogs and cats drink enough water.

• Give them ice cubes to chew on.

• You can even freeze some of their favorite kibble or even chopped up fruits and/or vegetables in the water, freeze and give them to enjoy.

• Fill their water bowls and put in a bit of beef or other broth to flavor it and get them to drink. Make sure you use low sodium broths.

• Keep track of how often you’re filling the water bowls. If you notice the bowls aren’t getting emptied, you may need to talk with your vet to assure your dog or cat is drinking enough.

• Many animals like to drink running water and that’s why fountain water bowls are ideal.

• Change the water frequently.

If your dog is outside make sure there is always fresh water within reach.”

(Sources Positivelywoof.com and petsafe.net)

Going away? Need a pet sitter you can trust to treat your pet like family? Contact Auntie Schelle’s Pet Services on Face...
02/07/2021

Going away? Need a pet sitter you can trust to treat your pet like family? Contact Auntie Schelle’s Pet Services on Facebook messenger or email [email protected].
Your pet will thank you when you get home! 🐾💜

Wow! It’s July already and with the 4th quickly approaching we here at Auntie Schelle’s thought it would be a good idea ...
01/07/2021

Wow! It’s July already and with the 4th quickly approaching we here at Auntie Schelle’s thought it would be a good idea to go over how to prepare and help your dog during fireworks. More pets go missing on the 4th and 5th of July than any other time of year. With that said we hope that everyone and their pet have a happy and safe Fourth of July! 🐾❤️🤍💙🐾

Source (www.akc.org)

“Whether for the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, or another celebration, many dog owners deal with howling, barking, and generally anxious dogs during fireworks. It’s even largely believed that Independence Day is the day when the highest number of dogs run away. But just what are the dogs afraid of?
“It can be the smell. It can be the noise and the flashes of the light,” says Judy Morgan, DVM, of Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets based in Woodstown, New Jersey. Your dog may “tremble, shake, shiver, howl, and bark — some of them get frantic.”
If you are unsure of how your new dog might react, Morgan says that pups that don’t cope well during thunderstorms are likely to get scared of fireworks. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help your dog. Here are nine expert-approved tips to prevent your dog from freaking out during fireworks.

1. Keep Your Dog Away From Fireworks
“First of all, don’t take your dogs to fireworks shows,” says Morgan. “And don’t leave them outside during fireworks.” Keeping your dog inside in the evening on the Fourth of July is the best idea, especially if you fear they might not react well.

2. Make Sure Your Pet Has Proper ID
Ensure that the information on your pet’s collar is current and make sure your dog is microchipped and has a GPS device. “If they escape, there’s a better chance they’ll get returned,” says Morgan.

3. Create a Safe Haven For Your Dog
Morgan recommends creating a place where your dog will (hopefully) feel comfortable. “You should get your pet used to a calming environment beforehand. Dogs are den animals — they’re looking for that cave to get away from it all.”
Try setting up an area in a quiet space away from windows — such as a basement or a larger closet — so that they can’t hear or see fireworks. Use a crate if that’s where your dog feels safe, and make sure to provide your pup with familiar toys and treats (Morgan will freeze bone broth in ice cube trays).

4. Play White Noise
You can try leaving a fan, TV, or radio on to help mask the sounds of the fireworks. “There’s some classical music called ‘Through A Dog’s Ear’ that has been shown to have calming effects for dogs,” says Jenn Stanley, certified behavior consultant and professional dog trainer, and co-owner of Awesome Pawsabilities Pet Training & Behavior Consultations based in North Carolina.

5. Comfort Your Dog
If you can, try staying home with your dog or leaving them in the hands of a trusted person. One of Morgan’s relatives usually stays with her dog in the closet to help soothe the animal.
“You absolutely can and should comfort your dog if he’s afraid,” says Stanley. “The key here is in how you do so. It’s important to remain calm and use a soothing, even tone. Petting them can be comforting — long, slow, firm strokes along the length of their body are typically very soothing.”
The one thing to avoid? Seeming frantic in any way, says Stanley. Rapidly saying, “It’s OK, it’s OK, it’s OK” in a higher-than-average pitch may make your dog think that there really is something to fear. Try your best to remain calm and reassuring to help your canine companion.
Calming shirts or vests also help a great deal for some dogs.

6. Walk Them Before the Fireworks Start
Head out for your long walk before the sun sets to increase the chances that you’ll avoid the sounds. When you do go out, you’ll want to ensure your dog is secure on a leash before your walk.
“Double-check the fit of your dog’s collar or harness before going outside. A leash, even if you have a fenced-in area, is a great added safety measure to help keep your dog close to you and under control should they get startled,” says Stanley.

7. Desensitize Your Dog to the Sounds of Fireworks
If you suspect your dog will freak out at the sound of fireworks, try playing sounds of fireworks (softly) so your dog is used to hearing them. Try pairing a video of the sounds of fireworks with a treat your dog likes, suggests Stanley, in a process called counter-conditioning.
“The volume should be low enough that your dog can notice it, but does not show signs of stress like panting, pacing, leaving the area or trying to hide,” says Stanley. “We call this keeping the dog ‘below threshold,’ and it makes it possible for learning to take place. If the dog is overwhelmed, they’re looking to escape the situation and are not going to be nearly as capable of learning that it’s not a threat.” Her other tips including increasing the volume gradually, varying the source of the sound, and using different recordings.

8. Talk to Your Vet
If your pet’s anxiety is severe, consider booking an appointment with your vet well in advance of July 4 so you can discuss a medication that could help soothe your dog’s anxiety. “If you have a dog that is bad enough and you haven’t done any prep work, and you know your pet is going to be in panic, try true therapeutic treatment,” says Morgan. You can also ask about trying over-the-counter dog calming treats.

9. Consider Hiring a Trainer
If fear is negatively impacting your pup’s life, consider enlisting the expertise of a trainer, says Stanley. “You can work with a trainer or behavior consultant to desensitize your dog to fireworks or other fears gradually — it’s never too soon to start planning for next year.””

Due to a heatwave hitting most of the country, This week’s Tuesday Tips are all about identifying, preventing and treati...
29/06/2021

Due to a heatwave hitting most of the country, This week’s Tuesday Tips are all about identifying, preventing and treating heatstroke in your pup!

Source (https://www.hillspet.com)

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke:
Unlike people, dogs don't sweat out excess body heat. While your dog does have a few sweat glands located in his paws, these do little to help regulate his body temperature. Instead, he does this through rapid, open-mouthed breathing, called panting. But sometimes panting isn't enough to keep him from getting overheated.
Heat exhaustion in dogs can occur when the body temperature becomes elevated above the normal temperature. This varies slightly, according to PetMD.com, but it's generally agreed that temperatures of 103 degrees Fahrenheit and higher are above normal. If the temperature continues to rise and reaches 106 or higher, your pup is in the danger zone for heat stroke, during which the organs begin to shut down and his heart could stop altogether.

Warning Signs:
Fortunately, it's not difficult to spot signs of overheating in dogs. Excessive panting is the first symptom. A dangerously overheated dog, according to the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation, may collapse or experience convulsions, exhibit vomiting or diarrhea, and may also have gums or a tongue that turn blue or bright red. You may want to identify the problem before it gets that severe, though to intervene and prevent serious overheating. Early signs are more subtle - it may be as simple as your dog seems less responsive to commands than usual. When you call his name, instead of turning to look at you, he may wander away. If there is any question at all, get your dog out of the heat. The Humane Society of the United States adds that signs of potential heat stroke include glazed eyes, excessive drooling, a rapid heart rate, dizziness or lack of coordination, fever, lethargy, and loss of consciousness.

Risk Factors:
While all dogs are at risk for overheating if the conditions are right, some breeds are more prone to it than others. This includes dogs with thick coats or long hair, very young or very old dogs, and brachycephalic breeds—those with short noses and flat faces, such as shih tzus, pugs, boxers, and bulldogs. Overweight dogs and those that suffer from medical conditions that cause difficulty breathing or heart problems are especially susceptible.
Extremely active dogs and working or hunting breeds (such as shepherds, retrievers, and spaniels) are also at a higher risk, especially during warm months. You should be careful to not push these dogs too hard, so make sure they get plenty of breaks to rest in the shade and that they are well-hydrated at all times.
Environmental factors can also place a dog at risk. Be aware not just of high temperatures, but also of high humidity, which can increase the chance of heat exhaustion in dogs. All dogs are at increased risk of overheating if they're not given adequate shade or another cooler place to relax indoors. And dogs left in a hot car are in serious danger of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

What to Do if Your Dog Is Overheated:
At the first sign of overheating, immediately take action to cool down your dog. Vetstreet recommends the following steps to treat heat exhaustion in dogs:
1. Immediately move your dog to a cooler area, either indoors where there is air conditioning or in the shade under a fan.
2. Use a re**al thermometer to check his temperature. Heat exhaustion typically occurs when a dog's temperature falls between 103 and 106 degrees. A temperature above 106 places him at risk for heat stroke. If he's in the danger zone, call your veterinarian.
3. If you're near a body of fresh water, such as a lake or a baby pool, let your dog take a dip to cool down. Otherwise, you can use cool, wet cloths or towels to help him out. Place your cool wet cloths on his 1 neck, armpits, and between his hind legs, and you can also gently wet his ears and paw pads with cool water.
4. If he's conscious and willing to drink, give him cool, fresh water. Don't force it, however, as it may end up in his lungs. If he can't or won't drink, or can't keep water down, wet his tongue with water instead. Don't feed him ice cubes, which could cause his temperature to drop too quickly, leading to shock.
5. Get him to the vet. If you haven't already done so, call ahead so they can be ready to take immediate action as soon as you arrive.
Avoiding Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
Of course, the best cure is prevention. You can help keep your pooch from overheating with some basic safety practices. These include limiting exercise or outdoor activity on excessively hot or humid days, providing plenty of shade and water when your dog is outdoors, and never, under any circumstances, leaving your pet in a parked car—not even in the shade with the windows rolled down. On mild days with temperatures in the 70s, the inside of a parked car can reach 120 degrees in minutes, making this an extremely dangerous environment to leave your dog, even for a short time.

If your pooch has energy to burn and needs some form of exercise in order to stay calm, take him swimming or let him run and play in the sprinkler before heading back indoors. You can also use a cooling body wrap or vest to help keep him cool without getting him wet. And if your dog has long hair or a thick coat, consider getting him a short haircut to get through the hot months—just be sure to leave enough fur to protect his skin from the sun.
Additionally, if you take your dog on long walks it might be better to take him during the cooler hours of the day such as early in the morning or later in the evening (keep in mind hot sidewalks and pavement can burn his footpads). Be sure to keep water with you and let him take a break every once in a while. If you run with your dog make sure to not overdo it. Just as hotter temperatures make it harder for you to stay hydrated on a nice run, it's even more true for your pup.
If you'll be hunting or hiking with your dog, or if he has a job to do such as herding sheep or cattle, be sure to give your dog several breaks in the shade and make sure he has plenty of fresh water. Consider wetting him down or using a cooling vest while he's active, and keep a close watch on him for the first signs of overheating. Remember that working dogs tend to become so focused on their tasks that they don't realize when they need to rest and cool down. It's up to you to monitor your dog and make sure he gets the breaks he needs to stay healthy.
Finally, don't forget to put a plan in place for keeping your dog cool if the power goes out or the air conditioner stops working. As uncomfortable as you might be under such conditions, it's even worse for your dog, whose body temperature is already much higher than yours. If you plan to retreat to someplace cooler, be sure he'll also be welcome. Otherwise, consider leaving him at a kennel until it's safe for him to return home to cooler conditions.
Armed with the knowledge of how to recognize overheating, how to respond and how to avoid it in the first place, you can look forward to a safe, fun and happy summer with your four-legged friend.

Address


Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Auntie Schelle's Pet Services posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Auntie Schelle's Pet Services:

Videos

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Telephone
  • Alerts
  • Contact The Business
  • Videos
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Pet Store/pet Service?

Share