While it is not inherently problematic, gifting a pet may not be the most responsible decision. Unless, of course, you had already spoken at length about getting a new dog and understand what being a pup parent entails. 

That being said, some people who received dogs for Christmas may end up taking the dog to a shelter. This could be for several reasons. For instance, some individuals may not realize having a dog can be quite expensive. Others may be too busy to give their furry friend adequate care. 

During a January 2020 interview with WBTV, Judy Sims, the Executive Director at Humane Society of Concord, revealed that she noticed an uptick of dogs being taken to her shelter following the holiday season.  

“[People say], ‘It’s not what we bargained for, we adopted before we thought about it, our kids weren’t ready for it,’” said Sims. 

She then urged people to refrain from making “a snap judgment” before gifting a dog.

“Do some forward thinking, do some planning, think about what’s going to happen when soccer season starts, when baseball season start, when you go back to work. Think about those things,” said the executive director. 

While speaking to People magazine in December 2021, Dr. Evan Antin, a veterinarian located in Los Angeles, California, shared that he did not believe dogs should be Christmas gifts. 

“If someone isn’t expecting an animal, they’re likely not going to have that necessary knowledge, either,” explained the vet. “You want to prepare your lifestyle for an animal, how much time you have to commit to it. And you need a budget: What if this pet needs medical care, or special food? It’s not something you want thrown in your lap.”

Here at the Gentle Pit, we would like to remind potential dog adoptees that furry friends are family, not gifts. 

In a 2016 YouTube video, dog trainer and Animal Planet personality, Zak George listed the benefits of crate training your pooch.

“When used in moderation crates can be a fantastic way to help with overall training. They can give your dog a secure place to rest, save your property, assist with accelerating house training time and give you some freedom when you're distracted from puppy training,” explained George.

Now, it can get a little tricky when it comes to the training part. Ideally, you will begin crate training when your dog is on the younger side. While speaking to AKC in November 2021, a dog trainer at PUPS Pet Club, Anna Flayton, shared some suggestions to make training go without a hitch.

For starters, you should purchase an appropriately sized crate.

“Depending on how big your dog is going to get, buy the right crate for their adult. Then get a divider so you can build the space and grant them more and more space,” explained Flayton.

Pup parents can make the area even more enticing by handing their furry friends tasty treats and toys while they are inside the space. Flayton also noted that when you are first training your pooch, only leave them alone inside the crate for about an hour at any given period. Over a few months, you can start increasing the length of time you are away from your dog.

Zak George also noted that pup parents should refrain from keeping their dog in the crate for more than a few hours.

“Minimize the amount of time though your dog spends in the crate. So 15 minutes to an hour here and there and overnight are generally recommended. In cases where you have to work though avoid leaving your dog in a crate more than four hours at a time and less for dogs under four months of age,” said the dog trainer.

Do you crate train your dog? Let us know in the comments below!

According to the American Kennel Club, rawhide chews can be particularly dangerous for dogs on the bigger side who have strong bites. The AKC notes that dogs with impressive jaw power can bite the chew in big pieces, which “can pose a major choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage.” 

In a 2019 YouTube video, Dr. Lindsay Butzer, a Florida-based veterinarian, acknowledged pet parents’ concerns about their furry friends possibly choking on rawhides. She explained that “rawhides are meant to be edible.”

“They work on them, they chew them, they do eat pieces of it as they are going through the bone,” said the vet. 

Dr. Butzer clarified that rawhides “can get stuck” and noted that they “are not the best bones” for your canine companion to snack on. She went on to say that certain breeds are more likely to have issues with rawhides. 

"Once they get to the end or they have a piece of it, some dogs like Labradors swallow these bones whole and run off, and then five days later, they have a stomach ache, they have a fever and they are in the vet because they have a foreign body, not every dog is going to get a foreign body from these," explained the vet. 

She then asserted that it is up to the discretion of the pup parent to give their dog a rawhide. 

“I’m for rawhides, I like the rawhides, they keep your dog occupied,” said the vet. 

If you feel uncomfortable giving your pup a rawhide chew, the AKC recommends purchasing your pooch alternatives like bully bites or Himalayan Cheese treats. Please consult your dog’s vet before introducing any new treats.

Unfortunately, canine cancer is relatively common. According to Dr. Aine Corridon, owner of Hendersonville Animal Hospital, “cats and dogs get cancer at about the same rate as humans.” She also noted that approximately “30 to 40 percent of our animals die from cancer.” Cancer symptoms in dogs can vary. For instance, if your pet has been consuming an excess of water or has “a decrease in appetite” that may indicate something is wrong. If that is the case, pup parents should immediately schedule a vet appointment, as there’s a chance that canine cancer can be cured if it’s caught early on. 

“Sometimes if we can’t cure it we can give them medications that will increase their quality of life and lengthen the quality of their life until it is time to let them go,” said the veterinarian. 

In a 2016 YouTube video, Dr. Michele Drake, DVM, noted even if your dog is not presenting unusual symptoms, you should still get them screened, especially if they are older or a larger breed. She shared that when dogs enter their senior years at “nine or 10,” most veterinarians will “have a look at their spleen and their lungs once a year.” 

“That involves X-rays and doing an ultrasound of the spleen and just a general peek around the abdomen to look for signs of cancer basically,” explained Dr. Drake. 

She then noted that vets will perform examinations for skin and oral cancer. The veterinarian went on to say that pet owners may notice that their older dogs have lumps on their bodies. She explained that while “many lumps are benign,” some may be malignant. 

“The only way to find out if the lump is benign is by putting a needle inside of it, a tiny needle, getting some cells and then we have a look at it under the microscope to determine whether or not it's malignant or if it’s benign. If they’re benign, we just quite often leave them alone and just monitor them but if they are malignant we just recommend obviously taking them off,” shared Dr. Drake. 

While speaking to Fox 4 Now in 2018, Veterinary Oncologist Dr. Gerald Post shared a few ways that may decrease your dog’s chances of cancer. 

“Number one, keep your pet active and healthy, number two a good plane of nutrition is probably your pet's best friend. Three is to avoid things like second hand cigarettes smoke or certain pesticides or herbacrites,” said Dr. Post. 

In a 2015 YouTube video, Dr. Pete Wedderburn, BVM&S, CertVR, MRCVS, explained that, unlike humans, dogs have a difficult time metabolizing chocolate. 

“Chocolate contains chemicals called methylxanthines, the most common is theobromine. Theobromine is a stimulant, it gives you a nice little bit of a buzz but what happens with dogs is it’s not metabolised, it’s not broken down as quickly and that means that’s it rapidly accumulates in their bloodstream and as it accumulates it has a much greater stimulate effect and in particular it causes the heart to race and it also affects the brain,” explained the veterinarian. 

According to Dr. Daniel Annin, also known as Dr. Dan, certain types of chocolate can be more harmful than others. 

“Both of these chemicals can come in different amounts for different chocolates,” explained Dr. Annin. 

He noted that it’s not much of an issue if your pup were to eat white chocolate, as there is “very little theobromine in it and caffeine in it.” However, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and baking chocolate may cause serious health issues. 

He explained that dogs will experience a variety of symptoms if they were to consume chocolate, including agitation, “intestinal upset” and “an increased blood pressure.” In serious cases, dogs may have “seizures, tremors,” or go into “acute cardiac arrest.” For these reasons, you need to contact your pet’s vet as soon as possible if they have eaten chocolate. Once at the vet, your dog may be forced to vomit. Your pup may also be given “activated charcoal which may bind up some of the chocolate so it won’t be absorbed.”

image source: AKC

According to Fetch by WebMD, pumpkin is chock-full of “essential micronutrients and fiber,” which is helpful if your pup has some stomach problems. In particular, the delicious squash can “reduce issues with diarrhea.” 

Fetch by WebMD does warn that if you plan to purchase canned pumpkin, you need to be positive that it does not contain any added sodium or spices as that could give rise to potential health issues for our furry friends. It is also recommended that you only serve your dog “one to four pumpkin tablespoons per meal.”

In 2012, Dr. Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA, CVJ, penned an article for PetMD, in which he shared that pup parents should consider giving their furry friends pumpkin as a delicious fall treat. Dr. Mahaney noted that pumpkin can potentially be beneficial to pooches who are overweight, as the winter squash is quite fibrous, meaning it can give your pup “a sense of fullness” and thus “potentially enhance weight loss.” He also noted that it is “rich in Vitamin C.”

There also are plenty of dog treats that you can make with canned pumpkin puree. The AKC recommends combining “1 cup plain yogurt” and “1 cup pumpkin puree” and putting the mixture “into an ice tray” to make some pumpkin ice pops. Another pawsome option is to bake some cookies using “3 cups whole wheat flour,” “2 eggs,” “1 cup pumpkin puree” and one mashed banana. 

Does your dog enjoy pumpkin puree? Let us know in the comments below!

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, pet obesity is not unusual, and about a third of dogs in the Lithuania are obese. For a canine companion to be “considered obese … they weigh 20% or more above their ideal body weight.” Now, your pup’s ideal weight has a lot to do with his size and breed. If you are having difficulty determining whether your furry friend is at a healthy weight, consider getting your vet’s opinion on the matter. 

Unfortunately, if your dog is obese, they have a higher chance of having poor health. In a 2020 YouTube video, rehabilitation therapist, Dr. Jennifer Freeman shared that “there are a myriad of issues when your pet is overweight.” 

“It goes from exacerbating arthritis to making it more difficult to handle heat when they’re outside, respiratory issues and even cancer that comes about in a roundabout way. We used to not really look at obesity or fat tissue as an active tissue but we know now that it actually is. And the more excessive fat tissue that you have in your body, the more it causes generalized inflammation, so that’s what leads to these certain health complications,” explained Dr. Freeman. 

Fortunately, there are ways to help combat pet obesity. For one, you should focus on regularly exercising your pet. Consider taking your pooch on a 30-minute walk each day before you head out to work. That being said, if your precious pup has joint issues or arthritis you may want to look into physical therapy programs. Dr. Freeman explained that during a physical therapy program intended for weight loss, most animals use an underwater treadmill.

“It’s difficult to walk in there, it’s a lot of work. They burn calories -- they get a better range of motion. So a lot of the dogs who are obese that have difficulty holding themselves up on land, they can walk on the treadmill. Usually we have them come in a couple of times of week for a while and then hopefully the goal is they can go out with their owners after having lost some weight and gained some stamina,” said the rehabilitation therapist.

Under your vet’s guidance, you may also want to change up your pet’s diet. According to Dr. Greg Martinez, DVM., pet parents with an obese pooch should “cut [their] calories by 20 percent.” This means that you should refrain from giving them high-calorie treats or table scraps. 

According to Neighbors’ Animal Wellness Clinic, it is relatively common for a dog to be hearing impaired, and “[c]ongenital deafness, or deafness due to genetic defects, has been found in about 80 breeds of dogs,'' such as Dalmatians, Boxers, Welsh Corgis, Australian Shepherds, and Great Danes. Like humans, our furry friends may be deaf for several reasons, including genetics, “injury to the ear from infections or trauma,” and old age. 

Those who adopt deaf dogs will have to accommodate your furry friend’s needs. For instance, training your pup will look a bit different. In a May 2020 YouTube video, dog behavioralist Rich Eff of Perfect Pooch Dog Training explained that “teaching your dog hand signals is imperative to communication.” 

“Because the dogs are deaf, they can’t hear you, so they need to be able to understand what it is we are asking them to do based on visual signals,” said Eff. 

He then explained that owners have the option of showing their deaf dogs praise by “giv[ing] them a thumbs up,” “an okay sign,” or “jazz hands.” 

“Along with the praise it’s very important that you project good, positive, and excited energy so that the dog knows that you are happy with them,” stated the behaviorist. 

He also noted that “there are several ways to get your dog's attention,” including waving, “stomping your foot,” hitting furniture, “clapping,” and “flash[ing] a light.”

To celebrate National Deaf Dog Awareness Week, consider going to your local shelter to see if there are any deaf dogs available for adoption. If you are currently unable to adopt, fostering a precious pup who is hearing impaired is also a wonderful option. 

In a July 2019 YouTube video, Dr. Devon Smith, DMV, shared that “it’s recommended that your pet sees its vet every six months for routine wellness care.” She noted that our furry friends need these examinations twice a year because they “age on a much more rapid scale than [humans] do.” 

“Regular check-ups are crucial for early disease detection, which might help improve your pet’s quality of life and lifespan,” asserted Dr. Smith. 

That being said, while speaking to Southern Living in June 2021, Dr. Amy Stone, who is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, shared that your dog’s vet appointments should be contingent upon the age of the animal. 

"Puppies, like human babies, go to the doctor quite a bit in their first year of life for immunizations and other young animal issues. Once they are fully immunized and probably spayed or neutered, they typically need to come in for a visit yearly," said Dr. Stone. 

She did note, however, that senior dogs should head over to their vet twice a year. 

Now, most pups are not super fond of veterinary clinics. Professional trainer Zak George shared in a 2017 YouTube video that there are some ways to ease your dog’s nerves prior to your next vet appointment. 

“One quick tip that’s almost sure to remove some anxiety is to thoroughly exercise your dog just before going to the vet,” said George. 

The trainer also noted that dog owners should consider “spend[ing] a few minutes in [your vet’s] lobby” on days when your canine companion does not have an appointment. George suggested allowing your furry friend to “smell around” while “offering them a few treats.” 

“Our goal is to make the vet’s office a normal, fun place, so don’t wait until it’s time to go to the vet to go to the vet. Visit the vet office between appointments as often as possible,” stated George. 

How does your dog react when they have to go to the vet? Let us know in the comments below!

image source: Rover.com

However, that simply is not the case. The fact of the matter is that dogs may have to be muzzled for several reasons. For instance, canine behavior specialist Robert Cabral explained in a May 2020 video uploaded on his YouTube channel that dogs may have to be muzzled at a veterinary clinic if they exhibit nervous behaviors. He shared that vets typically use cloth muzzles, which “prevents a dog’s mouth from opening.” He warned, however, that this type of muzzle could be potentially dangerous. 

“When you close the dog’s mouth, you take away the dog’s ability to pant, so it’s really important that you consider that if a dog is panting or is stressed or is hot. If the dog can’t pant the dog could go into shock, the dog could overheat, and many other things,” explained Cabral. 

That being said, some dogs do need to wear a muzzle for behavioral issues and there’s no shame in that. For example, if you know your furry friend is reactive around other dogs and you decide to put a muzzle on them before you go out in public, you are being a responsible dog owner. Cabral recommends that dogs who “have bite issues” should wear basket muzzles. 

Now, this type of muzzle may look like it could be uncomfortable. However, according to the Animal Humane Society “[w]hen used properly, a well-fitting muzzle should never cause your dog any pain or discomfort.” The organization noted that our canine companions “are able to pant, drink water, and even take treats with ease once they’re used to their properly fitting basket muzzle.” 

That being said, dogs don’t usually take an immediate liking to basket muzzles. For this reason, Cabral suggests that an owner give their dog treats while slowly introducing the muzzle. 

“Always teach your dog that putting a muzzle on is a good thing and a really easy way to get your dog to understand that is to take a little piece of kibble, drop it inside, and give it to your dog,” noted the dog trainer. 

During a 2017 YouTube video, Melissa Fenstermaker, Head Trainer at Union Lake Pet Services, warned, “for your dog’s safety you don’t want to leave the muzzle on for extended periods of time.” 

“We also don’t want you to leave it on and them unattended. We want to make sure you are supervising them at all times so they are not going to hurt themselves trying to get that muzzle off,” said Fenstermaker. 

Have you used a muzzle on your dog before? Let us know in the comments below!

During an October 2019 interview with KCTV5, Mike Deathe, the owner of K.I.S.S. Dog Training, explained that service dogs “spend years being trained to help somebody with a specific skill.” According to the dog trainer, the training usually takes “anywhere from a year and a half to two years.”

In a 2017 YouTube video, famed dog trainer and Animal Planet host, Zak George noted that “service dogs can be any size or any breed.” He explained that “to qualify for a service dog you have to have a condition which significantly limits or makes you completely unable to complete daily life activities.” It is also important to note that when you have a service dog, you are able to bring the pup to most public places. According to George, “the Americans with Disabilities Act states that state and local governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations that serve the public that generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed to go.”

Kati Morton, a licensed therapist, also shared in a 2018 video, that service dogs “benefit an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, intellectual, or other mental disability.” She explained there are also psychiatric service dogs, who go through extensive training “to help its owner with a psychiatric disability or a mental illness such as PTSD, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.”

Morton then clarified that emotional support animals “are not considered service animals under the American Disabilities Act” and “do not have any special training to perform tasks that assist people with disabilities.” However, they can still be beneficial to those suffering from “depression, anxiety, and phobias.” She also noted that “a letter from a medical doctor or therapist is all that’s really needed to classify an animal as an emotional support animal.”

In his video, George also noted that while they can not be in most public places, “emotional support animals are allowed to live in no pet housing and go on airplanes.”

According to Dr. Courtney Campbell, a board-certified veterinary surgeon, if left untreated, heartworms could be fatal to dogs and “have been documented in all 50 states,” which means you need to be diligent as a pup parent. He also noted that heartworm disease “comes from mosquitos.”

In a 2013 video, uploaded on the American Veterinary Medical Association channel, Dr. Shelly Rubin, DMV, explained that these parasitic “worms are transmitted in a microscopic state by an infected mosquito and then travel through your pet’s blood vessels and eventually make their way to the hearts and lungs.” If that’s not bad enough, they also will “reproduce and create new microscopic young worms called microfilaria which are circulating in the blood.” He noted that once an infected mosquito bites your precious pup, “it takes about six to nine months for the worms to grow to full size.” Some dog owners may have difficulty realizing their furry friend is infected. A few symptoms to look out for are coughing, lethargy, and appetite loss. 

Now, the very thought of your dog getting heartworm disease is terrifying. However, Dr. Rubin asserted that it “is almost 100% preventable.” Depending on the pup and the issue at hand, your vet will prescribe a “topical, oral, [or] injectable” preventative. Vets also advise dogs to get blood tests at least once a year to see if they have heartworm. 

“By taking your pet to the veterinarian for regular preventative care and properly administering the treatment prescribed in a timely fashion you can help your pet avoid the devastating heartworm disease,” said Dr. Rubin.

However, it actually is an unfortunate injury that is often seen in breeds like labs, Great Danes, and Pit Bulls. According to the Veterinary Centers of America Inc., the injury happens after a pup hits the tip of their tail “repeatedly against solid objects,” usually because they are just too darn excited. While speaking to The Bark in 2018, Dr. Carrie Uehlein, who co-owns the Veterinary Hospital of Davidson in Davidson, NC, explained that pups who are prone to this syndrome tend to be “bright, energetic, and super excited to see people.” Here at the Gentle Pit, we can attest that this perfectly describes Pit Bulls!

“They will not stop wagging their tails no matter how much it may hurt them,” said the veterinarian. 

Unfortunately, this means they will keep wagging, even if their skin tears, which can cause “bleeding ulcers,” as reported by the VCA. The publication also noted that Happy Tail can also “expose delicate nerves that cause pain,” meaning for your pup’s sake, you will need to take them to the vet. Depending on the severity of the injury, the veterinarian may simply “bandag[e] the injured area” and give your pup some “antibiotics and pain medication.”

However, there are other ways to help heal Happy Tail. During The Bark interview, Dr. Uehlein asserted, “K-laser treatments work the best” for this type of injury. She noted that this involves “a class 4 warm light laser that increases oxygenated blood flow to the region you are treating to quicken the healing time.” 

The Bark noted that without “K-laser treatments," pup parents can expect the “healing time” to be about five weeks. The VCA also reported that if the injury does not “heal, the best solution is surgical shortening of the tail.” To avoid amputation, seek medical treatment for your dog at the first signs of Happy Tail.

Take Your Furry Friend To The Vet Beforehand 

Prior to traveling, you need to make sure that your pooch is in tip-top shape. This is especially true if you are going on an airplane. According to the American Kennel Club, you must bring a health certificate that proves your pooch is healthy and “up-to-date” with their shots if they are flying. 

Get Your Dog Microchipped 

Unfortunately, some dogs panic when they are in unfamiliar places, which may cause them to run away. For this reason, you should think about getting your dog microchipped before your vacation. The American Animal Hospital noted that the process is relatively simple. Essentially, a microchip, which is about “[t]he size of a grain of rice,” is implanted in your dog. 

According to the American Kennel Club, the device holds your pup’s medical information and “your contact information.” A universal scanner can decipher said information. The AKC notes that for the microchip to be effective, you must “register it with a national pet recovery database.”

Pack Accordingly 

As previously mentioned, dogs are unable to pack for themselves. This means you will have to figure out exactly what they’ll need. 

If you are going on a plane, you will need a crate. The AKC recommends that it should be sturdy, leak-proof, and “large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down.” 

Regardless if you are flying or driving, you’ll need to make sure that you have your pet’s medication, leash, collar, ID tag, waste bags, food bowls, food, and water. You’ll also want to bring their bedding, treats, and toys. 

Research Dog-Friendly Hotels & Restaurants 

Before you decide where you want to stay, do some research to see if there are suitable dog-friendly hotels and restaurants. You should also plan out some dog-friendly activities like going to a dog beach or taking a hike. Essentially, most hotels have pretty strict pet policies and often don’t allow dogs to stay in the room by themselves. This means, if you want to go out on an adventure, you will have to bring your dog with you. 

Foxtail Grass 

Those who live on the West Coast have probably run into their fair share of Foxtail Grass. Despite its adorable name, the weed is extremely dangerous for dogs. According to Fetch by WebMD, issues may emerge if your dog inhales the plant’s seeds or if the seeds are embedded into their skin. The seeds can “cause discharge, abscesses, swelling, pain, and death.” To ensure that your dog is not harmed by Foxtail Grass, avoid “overgrown, grassy areas.” If you believe your pup may have gotten near foxtail grass, give their body a thorough look. You should contact a vet if you notice that your dog has been excessively itching their ears, paws, or genitals, or if you notice unusual discharge around their eyes and nose. 

Stinging Nettle 

Just based on the name alone, you can assume that any animal, including humans, should avoid stinging nettles. Wag! reported that dogs “who are exposed to the plant … can be poisoned by thousands of injections of acetylcholine which can seriously affect the peripheral nerves.” Some signs that your pooch has come “into contact with the stinging nettle,” include skin irritation, difficulty breathing, and stomach issues. Dogs who experience these symptoms should be taken to the vet. They will likely prescribe a topical solution to ease any skin irritation. 

Cow Parsnip 

Cow Parsnip is another plant that could be potentially dangerous to your furry friend. According to Wag!, the small white wildflower can cause your canine companion to have dermatitis, hyperpigmentation, and/or severe “ocular damage [that can result in] permanent blindness.” If your dog consumes the plant, they will likely have “intestinal irritation” that is often accompanied by “nausea and vomiting.” Again, you’ll want to take a trip to the veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms. During the visit, the vet will either give your dog a topical, intestinal, or optical treatment, depending on the diagnosis.   

Oleander

Despite being one of the most beautiful flowers, Oleanders are poisonous to dogs and humans alike. You’ll want to make sure that your pup doesn’t consume the flower, as it could “affect a dog's heart by interrupting the electrolyte balance there,” as reported by Dog Health. If your dog has eaten the plant, they will need to go to the vet as soon as possible.

If you have a dog who gets anxious when there are unfamiliar noises, it may be in your best interest to keep them by your side during the Fourth of July. Consider following these suggestions that may help your furry friend keep calm on Independence Day.

Have Them Watch Firework Videos

A few days prior to the 4th, consider having them watch firework videos on YouTube. Canine Behavior Consultant, Jenn Stanley, recommended this method while speaking to the American Kennel Club in June 2021. 

“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. 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,” explained Stanley.  

Make A Calming Space 

 While speaking to the American Kennel Club, Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM, explained that because “[d]ogs are den animals — they’re looking for that cave to get away from it all.” So, before the 4th, make a comfy, calming space for your pup in either your bathroom or walk-in closet if you have one. 

Give Them Plenty Of Exercise

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before the fireworks show. If the weather permits, you may even want to head over to a local hiking trail to really tire them out. This tactic usually works wonders for my dog, who is terrified of thunderstorms. If she has a really long day, full of activities like going to the dog park or dog beach, she sleeps through the noises that would usually trigger her anxiety. 

Use Distraction Tactics 

If you can hear fireworks from your house, use some distraction tactics, like a puzzle toy, so your dog’s focus will be on something else besides loud, scary noises. During an interview with Scientific American, veterinary behaviorist Ilana Reisner also suggested that "before the fireworks start, cook up an irresistible food such as chicken breast, special meat or salmon cookies, microwave tiny bits of nitrate-free hot dogs, and popcorn.”

"Stock a treat bag. Feed one piece at a time to your dog throughout the fireworks to counter condition and distract. If your dog is willing, make a game of it and ask her to sit, down, 'find it', shake hands and other distracting cues. Freeze a Kong with kibble mixed with baby food. Feed dinner through the toy,” said Reisner. 

Consult Your Veterinarian

Consult your dog’s veterinarian to see if they believe your pup should be on any anxiety medication. 

Unfortunately, rattlesnake venom “can be fatal to dogs,” as reported by the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent your precious pooch from being bitten. 

1.Don’t Allow Your Dog Off-Leash 

It’s very tempting to let your pup off-leash and explore his surroundings. After all, dogs want nothing more than to sniff every single tree and bush they see. That being said, dogs aren’t the best at being aware of their surroundings and probably won’t realize that a rattlesnake is in their close proximity until it is too late. For this reason, you should always have a tight grip on your furry friend’s leash.

2. Keep Your Cool If You See A Rattlesnake

If you realize that there is a rattlesnake close to you, proceed with caution. You don’t want to act erratically, as it may agitate your dog, which in turn may irritate the snake, increasing its chances of biting. It’s best to take a different path and calmly walk away from the rattlesnake.  

3. See if Rattlesnake Vaccinations Are Right For Your Dog 

There are rattlesnake vaccinations available for dogs who are at least four months old. According to Methow Valley Veterinary Hospital, a “dog should get at least two doses about 30 days apart in the initial vaccination sequence.” Consult your vet to see if getting your dog a rattlesnake vaccination would be the best course of action.  

If your dog does end up getting bitten by a rattlesnake while out on the trail, get in contact with an emergency veterinarian clinic right away. Once you detail exactly what happened, take your dog to said clinic as soon as possible. According to the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, your dog may have to stay overnight, and “based on the veterinarian’s assessment of severity, bloodwork results, and suspected type of snake, antivenom may be administered.”

For instance, I initially believed that “no kill” groups did not euthanize under any circumstances. However, an organization can be deemed “no kill” as long as it has a save rate of 90%. This means that 10% of animals can be euthanized at these facilities. It is important to note that the animals put down have either severe health or behavioral issues that drastically decrease their quality of life. 

Another important distinction is that, unlike traditional shelters, “no kill” organizations choose which animals can stay in their facilities. According to The Daytona Beach News-Journal, “no kill” groups “may turn away” an animal if they “are too old, too sick, too mean or ‘not adoptable.’” The publication noted that this could be an issue as the animal may become homeless and reproduce, which contributes to the overpopulation of traditional shelters. 

Now, traditional shelters usually welcome all animals brought to their facilities. However, due to limited funding, resources, and space, animals are euthanized at a higher rate. 

While many dog-lovers have strong opinions about “no kill” versus traditional shelters, it is ultimately your decision where you choose to adopt. Also, you can help reduce animal homelessness and euthanasia rates by getting your dog spayed or neutered. 

If you already have one of these plants in your garden, please keep a watchful eye out for your dog. There are symptoms that indicate your precious pup may have swallowed something harmful. According to Dr. Murl Bailey, a professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, “when pets ingest toxic plants, the first symptom is vomiting. Depending upon which plant is ingested, the animal may develop loose bowels, become depressed, or show excitement.” If you notice these signs, it’s in your pet’s best interest to have them seen by a vet straight away. 

Thankfully, there are quite a few gorgeous garden plants that are safe, even if your dog sneaks in a bite or two. For example, sunflowers will brighten up any yard. Crepe Myrtles are also super gorgeous during the summer season. If you want a water-wise pet-friendly plant, look no further than a houseleek succulent. You can also never go wrong with a classic rose bush. Just be careful that your dog doesn’t accidentally swallow or get pricked by a thorn!

What is your favorite dog-friendly plant? Let us know in the comments below!

Thankfully, there are a few ways to keep fleas and ticks at bay. 

1. If you happen to have a yard, please make the effort to maintain your lawn. According to VetStreet, “ticks tend to like high grasses” and “fleas prefer warm, moist, shady areas with organic debris,” such as leaf piles. 
2. Consider using a topical treatment, like medicated drops. Another effective solution is to have your dog wear a flea and tick repellent collar. Please contact your vet before starting your dog on any preventative treatments to get their professional opinion about what is best suited for your furry friend. 
3. Each time your dog goes on an adventure outside, specifically where there is high grass, thoroughly examine their fur and paws for pests. If you do happen to see a tick, remove it immediately. The AKC recommends using either “a pair of fine tweezers or a tick removal tool” to get the job done. You’ll also always want to be wearing gloves during the removal process. 
4. If you notice that there are fleas inside your home, thoroughly clean all of your bedding, furniture, and carpeting. 
5. There are also a few natural flea remedies, but again talk to your dog’s vet before you try out any of these solutions. Once you get a professional’s opinion on the matter, consider brushing through your dog’s fur with a comb that has been coated with lemon juice. You may also want to try spraying diluted Apple Cider Vinegar on your pup. 

What is your go-to flea and tick solution? Let us know in the comments below!

But can our canine companions live a happy, healthy life as vegans? 

While there are some conflicting studies, in general, they can. According to a 2020 BBC article, dogs, unlike cats, have no issue with digesting plant protein and, therefore, can forgo eating animal products. Before you start your dog on a plant-based diet, however, you should contact your veterinarian to make sure that the decision is right for your pet’s specific needs. 

"It is theoretically possible to feed a dog a vegetarian diet, but it’s much easier to get it wrong than to get it right. You would have to do it under the supervision of a veterinary-trained nutritionist,” explained Daniella Dos Santos, president of the British Veterinary Association. 

Popular vegan dog food brand, V-dog states on their website, “Unlike their ancestors, domestic dogs possess up to 30 copies of the AMY2B gene for digesting plant foods.” Also, “Vegan diets for dogs are naturally hypoallergenic, easily digestible and anti-inflammatory.”

Hills Pets also reported that a plant-based diet may not be “ideal” for dogs. The publication reported that “a dog food plan devoid of animal fats and proteins is potentially dangerous and should never be fed without the supervision of a professional.”

For this reason, pup parents who choose a vegan diet may consider giving their dog supplements. However, in an interview with Fetch WebMD, Jennifer Larsen, DVM, PhD, warned that this may not be the best method. She told the publication: 

“[Y]ou’re adding a lot of chemically synthesized nutrients to replace what would normally be in an appropriate diet.” 

Do you feed your dog a vegan diet? Let us know in the comments below! 

**All Gentle Pit blog posts are for entertainment/informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your veterinarian for proper nutrition recommendations to meet your dogs' unique needs. 

For instance, tail wagging can indicate a few things. According to the American Kennel Club, when your pup wags their tail it “means that the dog is emotionally aroused,” which is not always a good thing. Basically, your pooch is either super excited or anxious. 

If you can not determine how your dog is feeling through situational context, check out how their tail is positioned. AKC noted that research published in Current Biology found “that dogs tend to wag more to the right when they feel positive about something, like interacting with their owner. Tails wagged more to the left when dogs faced something negative.” Similarly, if your “dog’s tail spins in a circle… that’s a happy wag.”

You will also want to look where your dog’s tail is pointed. For instance, pups who have downward-pointing tails are most likely “feeling fear and stress,” while “dogs with their tails held up like a flag are feeling confident, perhaps even aggressive.” 

Your dog will also let you know if they are distressed by “hunch[ing] toward the ground” or “exposing their tummy.” Conversely, if your canine companion is in a playful mood, they will pounce into a “play bow” position. 

According to the Animal Foundation, looking at your dog’s ears can also help you figure out their emotional state. Dogs who feel content will “relax their ears in a position that is natural to them.” However, if your pup is “feeling aggressive or dominant,” they will “raise their erect/tense ears higher.”

As reported by the American Animal Hospital, millions of households lose their pets “every year,” with most never being reunited. Another heartbreaking statistic is that approximately 33 percent of “pets become lost at some point during [their] lifetime.”

To ensure that there is less possibility of this happening to your dog, consider getting them microchipped. The process is relatively simple. Essentially, a microchip, which is about “[t]he size of a grain of rice,” is implanted in your dog. 

According to the American Kennel Club, the device holds your pup’s medical information and “your contact information.” A universal scanner can decipher said information. The AKC notes that for the microchip to be effective, you must “register it with a national pet recovery database.” Furry friends who are microchipped and properly registered “are up to 20 times more likely to be reunited with their owners.” 

While microchipping your dog is extremely beneficial, some pup parents may be hesitant to do so for numerous reasons. For example, you may be concerned that the injection of the microchip will hurt your canine companion. 

While speaking to Fetch by WebMD, Dr. Louise Murray, who is the director of medicine for the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, asserted that microchipping is relatively painless. 

“It hurts about as much as having blood drawn. It’s a large needle. There’s a pinch. A lot of people have it done when their pets are being spayed or neutered for that reason. But I’ve seen a lot of animals not even flinch when it happens,” explained the veterinarian. 

She also assured pet owners who may be concerned about the cost that microchipping has a price point of about $50. It also only needs to be done once, and your pup will be good for the rest of his life. 

Have you gotten your dog microchipped? Let us know in the comments below!

"The physical aspects of the pandemic are really visible. We have supply shortages and economic stress, fear of illness, all of our disrupted routines, but there's a real grief in all of that,” explained Lisa Carlson, former president of the American Public Health Association.

Now, we recommend seeking professional help if you notice a decline in your mental health. Once you talk to a doctor or a therapist, you may also want to consider adopting a dog to improve your mood. 

The Mental Health Foundation reported that a canine companion can help those diagnosed with depression feel motivated. Instead of staying curled up on the couch, you’ll be more inclined to leave the house and take your pooch on walks. You will feel better getting in some exercise and some fresh air. 

Even simply petting your dog has a myriad of benefits. The  American Kennel Club noted that showering your pup with physical affection will make you feel a lot less stressed out, as it “can release the oxytocin hormone and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol.” There’s also evidence that shows the feeling is mutual. So if you or your dog start to get overwhelmed, just give them a few pets. 

Also, the pandemic has been an isolating event. Many people have been separated from their loved ones and have no idea when they will see them in person. Personally, most of my socialization is over Zoom. While it’s lovely to see my friends and family members’ faces, shutting my laptop after our scheduled conversations can be a bit heartbreaking. 

Having a dog in your life can help combat the loneliness most of us have experienced for the past year. The AKC noted that research published in the National Library of Medicine showed that pup parents “reported significantly less dissatisfaction with their social, physical and emotional states.” 

Have you noticed that owning a dog has helped improve your mental health? Let us know in the comments below!

image courtesy of optimisticmommy.com

In general, pup parents neglect this area of their pet’s health.

Dr. Brook A. Niemic, the president of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry reported that “only about one percent of pet owners brush their pets’ teeth.” 

While that statistic is a bit alarming, it is easy to forget about maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene. After all, your dog isn’t going to remind you that he needs his teeth brushed daily. 

That being said, it is necessary. If you don't brush your pooch’s pearly whites, there’s a good chance that they will get plaque which may lead to periodontal disease.

According to Veterinary Centers of America, “[p]eriodontal diseases begin with gingivitis and left untreated, the infection often spreads deeper into the tooth socket, destroying the bone.”

While it is relatively common with “more than two-thirds of dogs over three years of age” having the disease, it is preventable. 

One simple way is to set an alarm at night to remind yourself to brush your pup's teeth with doggy toothpaste. Your dog may even enjoy it. Personally, my pooch is obsessed with the chicken-flavored toothpaste that I’ve been using. At this point, she thinks it’s a nightly treat and I’m not going to correct her. 

On top of the brushing, you could consider giving them dental treats or dog chews to improve their oral health. It’s also important to schedule oral exams and dental cleanings once every six months. 

A bonus of focusing on your pup’s oral health is that their breath will smell so much better. And who doesn’t want that? 

Do you have any tips or tricks on making sure that your pup has clean and healthy teeth? If so, share them with us in the comments section!

Essentially the practice, which is a “surgical procedure… only done on puppies” who are about 3 months old, changes “the natural shape of the Pitbull’s ears by removing part of the pinna so that the cartilage stands erect,” as reported by The Happy Puppy Site. The surgery, which is done by a veterinarian, is under an hour. Once the procedure is performed, the dog will have bandaged and taped ears until they have fully healed. The recovery process varies in length, ranging from less than a week to a few months. 

In general, ear cropping is frowned upon. As noted by The Happy Puppy Site, the “UK, Australia, New Zealand, nearly all European countries, and most Canadian provinces” have enforced a ban on the practice. 

The publication noted there is a lack of research that points to the procedure being beneficial. As it is an elective surgery, ear cropping comes with several risks that are essentially preventable. Also, dogs with cropped ears may be viewed in a bad light, especially in comparison to their non-modified counterparts. 

“Tail Docking and Ear Cropping Dogs: Public Awareness and Perceptions” reported that “[m]odified dogs were perceived as being more aggressive, more dominant, less playful and less attractive than natural dogs.”

While American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes ear cropping as “integral to defining and preserving breed character,” it is decreasing in popularity. 

“I’ve worked with nearly 40 animal doctors during my career, and I know maybe two who perform crops,” explained South Carolina-based veterinarian Dr. Andy Roark to Fetch by WebMD. 

David Frei -- a Westminster spokesperson -- shared similar sentiments to the publication regarding showing dogs, stating, 

“We're seeing a lot more natural-eared dogs in the ring, and the occasional undocked [tails].” 

Here at towerfansreview, we believe ear cropping to be an unnecessary surgery and strongly advise any dog owner to reconsider doing it for the just for the sake of aesthetics. 

According to a March 2019 USA Today article, quite a few veterinarians have expressed mixed feelings regarding at-home DNA tests. The publication interviewed Dr. Lisa Moses, a veterinarian who works as a research fellow at Harvard Medical School’s Center for Bioethics. She noted that pet parents should "take the results with a grain of salt,” especially regarding medical information.

USA Today reported that Dr. Moses co-authored a paper entitled "Pet genomics medicine runs wild" that was published in Nature. 

Said papers warn that “Most of these tests are based on small, underpowered studies. Neither their accuracy nor their ability to predict health outcomes has been validated.” 

 While speaking to the AKC, Dr. Diane Brown, former Chief Executive Officer and Chief Scientific Officer of the American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation, advised pup parents to use other methods to determine their pup’s health, stating, 

“You need to look at the overall health of the dog that you’re thinking about. What did the pedigree look like? What did the parents look like? What did the siblings look like? Do that sort of homework. What is required to be tested in that particular breed? I think that making decisions on the health and breeding of a particular dog needs to go far beyond just a single reference point and far beyond a single test. It needs to be looking at the dog as a whole.”

That being said, the American Veterinary Medical Association’s spokesperson, Michael San Filippo told USA Today testing is “fine to do if you're curious about your dog's ancestry and breed makeup."

Even if you are just wanting to know more about your pup’s breed, you still may feel overwhelmed with how at-home DNA tests are currently on the market. Thankfully, The Spruce Pets recently listed their top picks. The site recommends Embark Breed & Health Kit, DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test Kit, Wisdom Health Wisdom Panel 3.0 Canine DNA Test, and Orivet Mixed-Breed Identification Test Kit. 

Have you used an at-home DNA kit for your canine companion? Let us know in the comments!

Here at towerfansreview, we think improving one’s fitness safely and healthily is a good goal to have. That being said, it can be a little boring. 

That’s where your dog comes in! All pup parents can attest that everything is more fun with your dog by your side, including trying to get your cardio in. 

Not only that, but making sure that your dog is getting enough exercise can help lengthen their lives, as it is a way to combat canine obesity. It can also help lessen your pup’s anxiety if you have a particularly nervous dog. 

“Because exercise decreases anxiety overall, lack of exercise can contribute to anxiety-based conditions. More specifically, lack of exercise and mental stimulation can lead to attention-seeking and destructive behaviors,” explained veterinarian Dr. Stephanie Borns-Weil during a 2017 interview with BeChewy. 

Dr. Stephanie Borns-Weil went on to say that exercising with your dog, specifically in a public space, can help with their social skills, stating, 

“Exercise can and should be part of a whole program of exposure to other dogs, people, and environmental stimuli. This is necessary for proper socialization, particularly during young puppyhood.”

How you decide to get fit with your pup is really up to you! Before beginning your joint fitness journey, however, you should consult your physician and your dog’s vet to ensure that you both have a clean bill of health. 

Once that is taken care of, commit to going on a 30-minute daily walk around your neighborhood or local park. If you happen to live near a hiking trail, go on a trek with your pup on the weekends. For those who have a pool, consider swimming a few laps alongside your dog.

Whatever you decide to do, just make sure that you and your furry friend are having fun!

“In the most general terms, hydrotherapy is exercise in an aquatic environment [that is] used to achieve functional goals in rehabilitation,” explained Dr. Molly Flaherty, DVM, to PetMD in 2019. 

She went on to say that she “would recommend this type of therapy if any type of weight-bearing is painful for the dog.”

This specific form of physical therapy may be suggested by your veterinarian if your dog just had surgery, is overweight, is partially paralyzed, has hip dysplasia, and/or is suffering from canine arthritis.  It is recommended for dog owners to take their furry friends to a rehabilitation center with certified hydrotherapists. Also, dogs who are prone to chronic ear infections, should not seek out hydrotherapy, as there is a great risk of the inside of your dog’s ears getting wet. 

The most popular type of hydrotherapy for dogs is to walk on an underwater treadmill that had been submerged in a tank while they are connected to a harness. 

“Underwater treadmill offers better ‘on-demand’ control of an exercise program and allows modifications to be made more specific,” noted certified canine rehabilitation practitioner Dr. Tari Kern, DVM in a March 2020 interview with the American Kennel Club. “The depth of the water and speed of the treadmill can be quickly adjusted to provide different experiences for the pet. This allows the effects of the exercise to be tailored more specifically to the overall goal of hydrotherapy and each pet’s unique needs and possible limitations.”

Simply having your dog swim in a pool accompanied by a certified hydrotherapist can also have a myriad of benefits. 

That being said, canine hydrotherapy is not a guaranteed cure for your pup’s ailments. 

“Water-based exercises can help to rebuild muscle mass, promote cardiovascular output and improve stamina. However, it cannot target specific individual muscles for strengthening or reducing local inflammation or pain. The best rehabilitation plan should be individualized for each pet and incorporate a combination of modalities that best help to address all of the problems that need to be corrected,” asserted Dr. Kern. 

While there is not a set cost for hydrotherapy sessions, typically a half-hour will run you about $30 to $50.