PET HEALTH CARE ARTICLES
Is there any truth to the old adage, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks?" Even though young pups may be more actively curious, dogs never stop learning. In fact, adult dogs are often easier to train than their younger canine friends specifically because they are not as active. Older dogs are not as easily distracted as pups and can focus for longer periods of time. This ability to concentrate helps them learn new routines more easily.
Bites wounds are one of the most common reasons dogs are seen for emergency appointments with their veterinarians. The dog's teeth and jaws are very powerful and the wounds they inflict can crush or tear muscles and skin, penetrate through the chest wall and cause lung collapse, or cause serious or fatal damage to intestinal organs. All bite wounds are considered to be contaminated and/or infected. Left untreated, the bacteria in an infected bite wound will cause a localized abscess or more generalized cellulitis that spreads through the surrounding area. All bite wounds should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment will depend on the extent of the injuries, your dog's general health, and the location of the wounds.
Tellington TTouch is a technique developed by Linda Tellington-Jones for conditioning relaxation through gentle massage. The technique can be used in behavior modification programs designed to treat stress and anxiety in people and many species of animals.
Marker-based training such as clicker training is a positive reinforcement technique that allows great precision and can help animals learn complex behaviors. Charging the marker, marking correctly, and building a reinforcement plan will help with successful training.
Seeking guidance before obtaining a new pet can prevent many behavior and health problems in pets. Such a consultation will help you select the best pet for the household, but also provide information on how to prepare in advance for the new arrival.
Foraging toys are great for dogs and cats. They can be filled with treats or with the pet's regular food as an alternative to feeding from a dish. They offer mental and physical exercise while also providing benefits from sensory stimulation as they search for their meals. Dogs in particular benefit from the opportunity to solve puzzles in order to access food.
Foraging toys are designed to provide mental and physical exercise and enjoyment by simulating hunting and seeking for food. Both dogs and cats are natural hunters and scavengers. They benefit from exercising this part of their brain on a regular basis. Providing enrichment in the form of foraging toys can decrease boredom, improve enjoyment, and encourage dogs and cats to engage in species-specific behaviors in a desirable way.
There are numerous products on the market that have been designed to help prevent undesirable behavior in dogs. Leashes, harnesses, and head halters are needed to keep pets under control, especially when outdoors.
As pets age, they may lose some of their cognitive abilities. Age-related brain changes are not reversible, but there are medications, supplements, and environmental enrichment opportunities that may slow the decline. Underlying medical conditions should be treated to keep senior pets comfortable.
Behavioral problems can develop for many reasons. Genetics and the environment both contribute to behavior. When problematic behaviors arise, particularly if they develop suddenly or occur in older pets, it is important to screen for underlying medical conditions. The behavioral history provides valuable information to assist in determining the root cause for any behavioral concern.
