Pet Boxers

Pet Boxers, although low-maintenance, require your consistent attention, exercise, human interaction, consistent obedience training and lots of love. You cannot leave them to their own design for too long or they get lonely, bored and into trouble.

Being a big and strong dog as well as a highly intelligent one, Boxers need both physical and mental stimulation to keep them even-tempered and dignified while still keeping their impish spirit and fearless courage in tact.

How to keep Boxer out of trouble
Their high prey drive (some owners called it play drive) needs proper outlets or they could get destructive as house pets, and tend to fight among themselves especially if the other family Boxers are of the same sex. The female, it seems, is more aggressive than the male.

Keeping Boxers busy is the best way to keep them out of trouble! Tire them out with long walks, 3 times a day. Give them plenty of exercise, play with them, especially the inquisitive puppies or they would tear up your home out of boredom, pent up energy and frustration.

For all your love and caring, be prepared for wet slobbery drool and kisses and love in return.

What some proud owners say about their pet Boxers:
* \"Having a Boxer is like having another human in a dog body with you. You can talk to Boxers and they would understand. They demonstrate feelings just like human does. If they are loved, they will love and protect you.\"
* \"Boxers are the most loyal companions. My Boxers bring me up when I am down. They are the canine clowns of the dog world. They are the only dogs for me.\"
* \"They are a gift! The two I have are always smiling and they cheer me up when I´m not too happy. They can be your friends for life!\"
* \"My Boxer can take up my moods or lay quietly by my feet for hours.\"
* \"Boxers are so intuitive, so easily bored and heartbroken. They are the definition of devotion and courage.\"
* \"If I treat my Boxer puppy as an intelligent animal and talk to him almost like he\'s human, he is more responsive and better behaved, as though he\'s picking up on my sentiments by the way I am speaking to him.\"
* \"Boxers can be very manipulative. They are a lot smarter than they look! Don´t get taken in by their innocent-looking face or let them walk all over you no matter how much their eyes make them look like they are truly sorry.\"
* \"Give up being house-proud and enjoy your \"devil dog\". Don´t have potted plants because you´ll end up with empty pots. Don´t run to answer the phone because you´ll be rugby-tackled and end up flat on your face.\"
* \"Bringing a puppy or even an older dog into your home and your life is a major decision. It brings with it responsibility and commitment, but it also renders supreme joy, laughter, and sadly, but inevitably, tears. Not one of us who has ever shared his life with a Boxer would have it any other way.\"
* \"Boxer dogs think they are human. Treat them like one - love them, talk to them, cuddle them and value them and you will get your love back unconditionally 10,000 times.\"

Dog Training Provides a Tremendous Amount of Satisfaction

Dog training can provide a tremendous amount of satisfaction. Every dog should know at least the basics for living with people: come, sit, stay, don't jump up on people, and so on. Beyond the basics, there is an endless variety of things you and your dog can enjoy doing together. Dogs who are a joy to be with have much more flexibility in what they can do with humans, and so they have more fun. Positive dog training methods are often easier to use, as well.

So what are positive dog training methods? Different people will define them differently, but as a rule of thumb they are techniques that allow you to train your dog without causing it physical pain. So these methods enhance your dogs' natural trust and willingness. Dr. Ian Dunbar, Karen Pryor, Silvia Kent, Linda Tellington-Jones, and others have greatly expanded the popularity of this field in recent years. Training dogs can be a win-win for both humans and dogs!

The principles that are behind these methods are derived from sound scientific research: positive reinforcement is a central part of this approach. Clicker training dogs is perhaps the best known example, but there are other methods too. In clicker training, a small noisemaker is clicked at the very moment that the dog does exactly what you want it to. It's more precise than saying "Good!" or anything else. Then a treat is given, at least part of the time.

There are thoughtful people who advocate the careful use of devices that do cause pain in training dogs, especially when the problem seems intractable. I believe that in training dogs, many methods will work. But it is heartening that many dog owners and trainers have crossed over to using only pain-free, positive methods of dog training.

A Good Canine Citizen

Is your dog a gentleman or lady? If so, you may be able to get an award to prove it from the American Kennel Club (AKC) through its Canine Good Citizen Program.

This certification program is for all dogs, whether purebred or mutt. Any dog who has completed his vaccinations can be tested, and there is no upper age limit.

Ten behaviors are tested:
1. Accepting a friendly stranger
2. Sitting politely for petting
3. Letting someone brush and groom him
4. Walking on a loose leash
5. Walking through a crowd
6. Staying in place (sit and down)
7. Coming when called
8. Reacting to another dog
9. Reacting to distractions
10.Being separated from owner for 3-minutes.

If your dog can't pass these, you need to initiate a training program. These are the social skills required for living with humans in urban America.

The tests are done at dog shows, community colleges and private training facilities. The AKC charges $5 for the certificate (if you pass) and some organizations charge a nominal amount for the test ($10).

I'm really, really encouraging you to take advantage of this program.

You owe it to your dog to assure that he can survive in an urban setting and that he remains adoptable by someone else if something happen to you. Not everyone would put up with a nippy, barking, high-strung dog who thinks he's the king of household.

Your participation also encourages the AKC to continue this program. It's been around since 1989 but hasn't been publicized the way it should.

The AKC raises more than $50M a year from registration fees and does a lot of great work for purebreds.

The Canine Good Citizen is a way for them to help all dogs and dog owners no matter what they're background - something not all AKC members support.

More participation will ensure funding continues and the AKC expands the program.

We're also hopeful that insurance companies and landlords will start accepting the certificates and giving homeowners or renters a break on insurance rates or damage deposits.

With the increase in "dangerous breed" laws and rising homeowners insurance rates when you have a dog, it's important for all our dogs to be good citizens and respected members of the community.

5 Grooming Mistakes Made by Dog Owners

1. Clipping the quick when cutting nails.
Don’t be in a hurry to finish his nails even though your dog wants you to finish quickly. Take baby clips using a SHARP nail clipper (my preference is spring style or cat clippers for small dogs).

Don’t use a Dremel or other electronic/motororized tool unless you’ve had some training in using it. It's too easy to overcut.

If your dog has white nails, the quick should look pink. STOP clipping before you get there.

If your dog has dark nails, you should see a black circle in the clipped part of the nail.

STOP clipping before you get there.

If you do draw blood, apply pressure and styptic powder. A product called QuikStop can be purchased at most pet stores. If you can’t control the bleeding, get to a veteranian or animal hospital immediately.

2. Getting shampoo in his eyes during baths.
Dogs love to shake their wet heads and it’s easy for shampoo to sting his eyes.

Buy some sterile ophthalmic ointment (at pet store or www.1800PetMeds.com) and dab in each eye before bathing.

If shampoo gets in his eyes, rinse with cool water or saline eyewash. Do NOT put more ointment
in his eyes. If his eyes remain red or he’s squinting long after he’s dry, he needs a vet’s attention.

3. Causing electric clipper burn.
It looks like a rash and results from using overheated clipper blades or damaged blades.

Inspect your clippers before each use and replace missing or dull blades and blades with broken teeth.

If your dog is affected, he’ll try to scratch or lick the areas, which only worsens the irritation.

It’s a good idea to keep an Elizabethan collar on hand (or make one) for such problems as they prevent the dog from reaching irritated areas. Keep the area clean and use an antibiotic ointment on the skin until it heals.

4. Unintentionally encouraging allergic reactions.
Allergies seem to be on the rise and some dogs are more sensitive than others. If your dog is very itchy after a bath or his skin is red and irritated, it may be an allergic reaction.

Try products with oatmeal or use all natural products. And always rinse thoroughly to prevent residue build-up.

If your dog develops a serious reaction such as hives, diarrhea or pinpoint-sized pupils, he needs immediate medical attention. If he’s just itchy, try different mild products until you find one that he likes.

You can work with a vet to pinpoint allergens but this a time-consuming and expensive process. I’d try various products first.

5. Leaving him unrestrained or unattended.
Dogs, especially those who hate being groomed, can try to make escapes by jumping off a table or off a lap. Serious injuries can result to small dogs.

Never leave a dog unattended. Groom him on the floor or restrain him if he’s on a table or in a sink. Create a barrier around him so he has no place to jumping off spot.

You can have a second person hold the dog while you wash him if you’re using an area too large to fence him in.

Be patient, stay calm and offer lots of praise as you groom and you’ll avoid most problems.

How to Adopt a Dog

You know what it's like. You see a cute curly haired puppy in the pet store, with big brown eyes begging for your attention. Next thing you know, you're walking down the pet food aisle at the supermarket buying dinner for your new puppy. It's not hard to get sucked in by a puppy. However, sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest pleasures.

Adopting a dog is a big decision. Dogs require lots of time, money, and commitment, as they can live from 9 to 15 years, depending on the breed. Owning a dog can be very rewarding, but you must think it through before adopting one.

Things to consider when looking at puppies for adoption
Adopting a dog or puppy from an animal shelter shows that you're a responsible and caring person. But first take a moment to think over these important questions:

Why do you want a dog?
... not many people ask themselves this question. Don't forget that your new dog may be with you for up to 15 years.

Do you have time for a dog?
... you can't ignore your dog just because you're tired or busy. You have to provide food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year. You can't just "take a day off" if you feel like it. A lot of the dogs in the shelter or rescue are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.

Can you afford a dog?
... the costs of dog ownership can be quite high. Licenses, training classes, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, grooming, toys, food,and other expenses add up quickly.

Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a dog can cause?
... flea infestations, scratched-up furniture, and unexpected medical emergencies are all unfortunate aspects of dog ownership.

Can you have a pet where you live?
... if you rent you may not be allowed to have a puppy or a dog. Find out before you consider looking at puppy's for adoption.

Do you have young children?
... if you have kids under six years old, you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a dog. Dog ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible.

How much room do you have at home?
... the size of the dog is not the only thing to think about here. Some small dogs, such as terriers are very active, and require a great deal of exercise to slow them down, and they often bark at any noise. On the other hand, quite a few big dogs are laid back and just couch potatoes. Before you adopt a dog, do your research. That way, you can be sure you choose a dog who will fit into your particular lifestyle and your living arrangements.

What will you do when you go on vacation?
... you'll either have to rely on your friends and neighbors or have the money to pay for a boarding kennel or pet-sitting service.

Are you prepared to keep and care for the pet for his or her entire lifetime?
... when you adopt a puppy dog, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime.

Well, that was a long list of questions, however if you take a look through an animal shelter, they will help you understand why you need to answer each of them honestly.

Most of the dog shelter's and dog rescue's homeless animals are puppies and dogs that are the result of irresponsible breedings, or owners who simply could not manage their pet.

Please, please, don't make the same mistake! Think it through before you consider puppies for adoption. Sharing your life with a dog can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love, for the life of the dog.

How to Prevent Dog Bites Case

Of all the aggressive behavior in dog’s dog bites is the most serious. However no matter how serious it may be you can contain it if you are able to diagnose the cause of this aggressive dog behavior. In the following 8 tips

1. Before you treat any illness you have to be able to recognize the type of aggression your dog is exhibiting. Bellow are few aggressive dog behavior you have to notice I will be expanding the
subsequent tips.

• fear aggression
• possessive aggression
• dominant aggression
• dog to dog aggression
• aggression towards infants
• punishment or pain elicited aggression
• protective or territorial agression

2. Then you have to consult an authority like professional trainner, veterinary behaviorist.

3. You need to avoid situations that elicit aggressive dog behavior.

4. Lots of the aggressions are even fault of the dog owners. Many employ punishment in teaching obedience commands. All you have to do whenever you want to teach obedience comman is to use reinforcement methods.

5. Fit your dog with a head halter while training, a humane way to treat and control your og. Use this option only on a temporary basis. Employ the service of experience head halters to fit dog handler.

6. Fit your dog with a basket muzzle if restraint is necessary for extended periods (about 3-5minutes).

7. A helpful technique for behavior modification is obedience training, though this type of training will hardly eliminate a dog aggressive behavior.

8. It is advisiable for you not to approach a dog that is sleeping or unaware of your presence.

Secret Signal if Your Dog is Ready and Eager to Learn

No one knows your dog better than you, and as such you will find your dog has ways of telling you, it’s time to play. This can occur by him bringing you the collar you use while training or he may run back and forth to the front dog around training time.

Different times of the day and evening, we find it’s best to Practice commands at different times of the day and evening as your dog gets better and more adapt at learning.

The best way to motivate your dog to learn
Your dog LOVES to please you, as such when your dog does what you want him to do praise him HEAVILY and use high tones a lot of rubbing and food reward. This will ensure that your dog will look forward to learning.

Different body positions while issuing command
Does your dog really fully understand a given command? Try giving the command when you're in a different position than usual. For instance, if you are sure your dog understands the command "Stand", try issuing the "Stand" command (from a sit or down):

1. While you're lying down on the floor, stomach side down.
2. While you're on the sixth rung of a ladder.
3. While you're one flight above or below your dog, each of you located at the opposite ends of a staircase. Different levels of volumes and different tones of voice

Try issuing commands to your dog in several different volumes (whisper, quiet, moderate and loud) and different tones of voice (squeaky, in a low voice, grumbly, singing, etc.). Disappearing after issuing command Give a command your dog knows well, and then go out of sight for 3 minutes. Does your dog remain in position until you return and release him or her?

What 3 Things you should never do when training your dog

1. Never correct the dog by hitting,
2. Never use the same command to mean 2 different things
3. Never train the dog when you are in a bad mood or not feeling well

Who do dogs mind better, men or women?
Dogs do not have a preference they love their masters equally if male or female what they do respect however is consistency in commanding. It keeps them from getting confused.

Disappearing before issuing command
First, try standing behind your dog, facing away from him, when giving a command. Use a mirror when possible to watch your dog. Then give your dog a "Sit-Stay" command, and then go out of site for 1 minute (i.e.: into the next room where your dog can't see you). Then, while still out of your dog's sight (but within hearing distance), issue a command for your dog to "Down”.

The one mistake you mustn’t make
Never ever hit your dog. What every dog must have when left at home alone

1. Plenty of water
2. Food
3. His toys.

Home Detection Tips for Distemper in Dogs

Distemper: Spotting this Dog Killer before It's too Late
Canine distemper is a devastating disease. It often crops up in seemingly healthy pets without any warning. What's more, distemper often mimics benign problems, like the common cold. This is truly the most insidious aspect of this illness. Sadly, many cases progress to the point where they are no longer treatable before the owner even realizes what's happened.

How to Spot the Early Signs of Distemper
First and foremost, understand that distemper can often be diagnosed very early if regular trips to the veterinarian are scheduled and kept. This cannot be stressed enough, especially for new puppies! Because afflictions like distemper most often strike very young pups when they have weaker immune systems, it's crucial that owners visit the vet often in the first few weeks of life. Early diagnosis means a chance to survive distemper.

Owners who suspect distemper, but haven't had the animal seen by a vet yet, can detect it by a couple of signs. First, yellowish-green or dark green discharge from the eyes and nose is a classic symptom. It's often accompanied by sneezing and general lethargy. Unfortunately, many pet owners assume this is just a sign that their dog has contracted a cold or has allergies and they ignore it.

If you remember nothing else about what you read here, remember this: any greenish discharge from the eyes or nose means distemper is a real possibility. RUSH your pet to the vet at the first sign! In most distemper cases, the only chance your puppy or dog has is early detection and aggressive medical therapy.

While distemper can manifest differently from one dog to the next, another hallmark of it is constant shaking or twitching. This happens in the more advanced stages of the disease, when the infected dog's neurological system has been compromised and muscles fire continuously. Unfortunately, by this stage it's rarely treatable and the humane step is euthanasia. Having said that, always get your pet checked out thoroughly to rule out some other condition that may be causing the tremors. You never know. Dogs are like people, in that they are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and diseases that can share very similar symptoms. Never assume!

It isn't easy for pet owners to prevent diseases as serious as distemper. It's infamous for sneaking up on otherwise healthy puppies. But starting a new puppy out right - with good nutrition and regular visits to the vet for vaccinations and check-ups - will go a long way toward keeping him healthy and disease-free. Know and watch for the signs of distemper and your dog will have a strong ally in you!

Good Cheer for Homeless Cat or Dog

The holidays are a wonderful time of year, full of excitement, expectation, and celebration.

But for many it's also a difficult time. This is especially true for anyone not blessed with a close, supportive family, or those physically separated from loved ones.

Consider, among these unlucky souls, the four legged ones who have to spend their holidays--all of their days, in fact--at the local ASPCA or animal shelter. These poor creatures have little to look forward to besides hoping that some nice family will adopt them some day.

Pets need new games, toys, smells, experiences, and above all, exercise to be happy. Dogs and cats in shelters can get depressed, lose their appetites, and become more susceptible to illness.

I was pondering this recently, when a light bulb turned on in my head (figuratively, not literally). "Why not get all these lonely and stressed-out souls together?” I thought.

Now, I'm not implying that everyone who's feeling a little despondent or stressed during the holidays should run out and adopt a pet. Bringing home a new dog or cat is a serious commitment and should be done for the right reasons, and with plenty of forethought. But there are other ways to bring the gift of good cheer.

A lifting of the spirits is not only a rewarding gift to give, but is good medicine for animals and people alike. A happier animal is a healthier animal, and probably a more adoptable one. And a happier human is not only healthier, but more apt to enjoy the season of giving.

What could be more uplifting for both dog and human than bringing some inexpensive "kitty or doggie gift baskets" to a local shelter, and watching the residents enjoy them? You -- or the "holiday-challenged" people in your life-- could fill up a basket (or two, or three!) with healthy pet treats, amusing toys, or comfy blankets. You might want to check first to see if the shelter in your area allows this, or if they have a need for particular items.

If cat or dog gift baskets aren't an option, offer to take a canine resident for a walk. I recently learned about a retired couple who does this on a regular basis. They spend their entire day at the local shelter, making sure that every single dog has been walked. The couple does this twice a week, all year round. The dogs love it, and it's wonderful exercise for all concerned.

I know what you're thinking. But you don't have to do anything as time-consuming as all that. Just show up once or twice. A walk and some fresh air is a great way to alleviate holiday stress and you're sure to catch some of the light-hearted spirit that radiates from a happy dog. Tell a friend about it. Maybe they'll give it a try. Some might be inspired enough to become "hometown heroes", like the couple mentioned above.

You might know an older retiree who considers dog ownership too much of a burden, but wouldn't mind taking a dog for a walk. If it's a friend or family member who walks but no longer drives, perhaps you could volunteer to drop them off and pick them up.

Giving freely of ourselves is one of best gifts we can give. But if all of this seems too time consuming, then a small financial donation would still go a long way. Lots of shelters have fund raisers this time of year, and odds are you won't have to look far to find one. In the end, caring is what really matters.

Perfect Family Dog for Your Family

If your kids have been begging you to get a family dog then this article is for you. Having a family dog can offer your family a great amount of fun and enjoyment. Having a dog can also help your kids learn about responsibilities. Of course you need to find a dog that is family friendly. The following tips will help you find the right breed to suit your needs.

You need to ask yourself what sort of things do you want to do with your dog. If you like going on fishing trips your certainly don't want a poodle. Breeds such as the Golden Retriever or Lab would be excellent.

If you’re looking for protection for your kids, a German Sheppard can make an excellent pet. This breed is very safe to have around your family and can also provide a great deal of protection.

Do you and your family travel allot? If so you may want to have a much smaller dog. Leaving your dog behind isn't an easy thing to do. Smaller dogs are easier to move around in a crate.

Maybe you’re not all the fond of your family getting a dog? If this is the case you may want to get a dog that tends to be more on the lazier side of things. Bull dogs, for example can make a great pet that spends most of its time out of the way.

You may also be wondering if you should just get your dog from the dog pound. There certainly isn't anything wrong with this because they deserve a home too. You need to keep in mind that you really don't know how well some of these dogs will behave around children. You must be very careful when choosing a family dog this way.

A family dog is a great pet and can keep the kids occupied for hours on end. You just need to make sure that you choose the right one for your family needs.

20 Most Popular Dog Quotations

Get to know your beloved dog better with these insightful quotations all about your best four-legged friend...
1. "A wise man associating with the vicious becomes an idiot; a dog travelling with good men becomes a rational being."
--Arabian Proverb

2. "You can say any fool thing to a dog, and the dog will give you this look that says, `My God, you're RIGHT! I NEVER would've thought of that!'"
-- Dave Barry

3. "A boy can learn a lot from a dog: obedience, loyalty, and the importance of turning around three times before lying down."
-- Robert Benchley

4. "Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window."
-- Steve Bluestone

5. "A dog barks when his master is attacked. I would be a coward if I saw that God's truth is attacked and yet would remain silent."
--John Calvin

6. "I think we are drawn to dogs because they are the uninhibited creatures we might be if we weren't certain we knew better."
-- George Bird Evans

7. "Old age means realizing you will never own all the dogs you wanted to."
--Joe Gores

8. "To his dog, every man is Napoleon. Hence the constant popularity of dogs."
--Aldous Huxley

9. "When the old dog barks it is time to watch."
-- Latin Proverb

10. "If you are a dog and your owner suggests that you wear a sweater. . . suggest that he wear a tail."
-- Fran Lebowitz

11. "Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside a dog, it's too dark to read."
-- Groucho Marx

12. "Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think that's how dogs spend their lives."
--Sue Murphy

13. "It's funny how dogs and cats know the inside of folks better than other folks do, isn't it?"
--Eleanor H. Porter

14. "I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive."
--Gilda Radner

15. "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog."
-- Mark Twain

16. "The more I know about people, the better I like my dog."
-- Mark Twain

17. "If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man."
--Mark Twain

18. "Dogs believe they are human. Cats believe they are God."--
Unknown

19. "The dog is the only being that loves you more than you love yourself."
--Fritz von Unruh

20. "If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer."
--Alfred North Whitehead

Ten Important Things about Dog’s Thinking

If your dog could talk, these are some of most important things she would like to tell you...

1 My life will probably only last 7 to 14 years.
It will hurt me more than you know if I have to be away from you for longer than a day or two.

2 If you have patience with me and give me time to learn what you would like from me, I can promise you, you will never be disappointed.

3 Trust me with your life and have faith in our future together.
If I don't feel that you honestly believe in me, I will suffer great emotional stress. My sense of self-worth is totally dependent upon your confidence in me.

4 Don’t stay mad at me for long or confine me to a cage to punish me.
You have your friends, your job, and your recreation. I have only you!

5 Talk to me about anything you want as frequently as possible.
Even if I can’t comprehend your precise words, I can understand the meaning of what you’re telling me by the tone of your voice.

6 Remember no matter how you treat me, I will never forget it.

7 When you consider raising your hand to hit me, remember I have teeth that could break the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.

8 Before you scream at me for failing to respond to your commands as I usually do, take time to think about what might be wrong with me that would cause me to treat you differently.
Maybe I haven’t been eating right or drinking enough water. Or maybe my age is catching up with me and I just can’t do what I used to do.

9 Take good care of me when I get old.
Someday you will be as old as me and you will see how it feels.

10 Be there for me through good times and bad.
Never say you can’t handle taking me to the vets for stitches or surgery. Nothing could make me feel worse. Everything in my life is easier for me to deal with when I have you standing by my side.

Remember my love for you is unconditional and it will last for your entire life.

Cleft Palate in Puppies

Sometimes puppies are born that can't suckle properly, and it's almost always because they have a cleft palate. A cleft palate can be a complete division up the middle of the palate, or roof of the mouth, or it can just be a small hole in the palate.

Canine cleft palate is a failure of the two sides of the palate to fuse correctly during the embryonic stage of development. It can just be the soft tissue, in which case it only presents as a cosmetic malformation, but if the hard palate is affected, it inevitably spells doom for the new born pup. A cleft pale in dogs can be either a genetic defect, or due to something occurring during the development of the embryo. Surgical correction of cleft palate.

All puppies should be examined for a cleft palate as early as possible, by opening the jaws and looking at the roof of the mouth. If the breed is very small, it may be necessary to get your Vet to check for you.

It is possible to correct a cleft palate surgically. However the pup must be old enough to undergo an anesthetic, so in the early stages of its life the puppy will need hand feeding with a stomach tube.

Cleft palate of the outer soft tissue, sometimes called canine hare lip, can repaired surgically at about six months of age. Small holes in the roof of the mouth can self correct as the pup grows older, but may also be corrected surgically if so desired.

What Gifts are Suitable for Our Dogs?

Whoever coined the phrase, "It's a Dog's Life" wasn't familiar with 21st century dogs. Time was when the average canine slept outside, ate whatever scraps of food were tossed his way, and if he was lucky, was thrown the occasional bone. He was even expected to earn his keep!

Times have changed. As the world has grown more affluent, so have our pets. We're obsessed with keeping our canine companions happy, healthy, and properly accessorized. So much so that many of us worry about our own welfare less than that of our dog. This didn't happen overnight-- the trend started decades ago.

Take, for example, my grandmother Rose. During the 60's and 70's, Rose and Henry discovered cruise vacations. On every cruise, whenever they pulled into port to "shop", Rosie made it her mission to find stray dogs and feed them. She'd head straight for the butcher, buy a few pounds of fresh meat, and comb the islands for the hungry and homeless. She would exclaim, "It's a crime the way these animals live!"-- in spite of the fact that the people of those islands were desperately poor!

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not passing judgment on Grandma, or anyone else. I spoil my pets as much as the next guy or gal, and take immense pleasure in it. Truth be told, I'd rather hang out with my dog than with a whole lot of people I know. We share a special bond, my best friend and I. Hey, admit it... lots of you feel the same way!

The fact is, man has always had a close relationship with animals, and has enjoyed having pets around for companionship. Having a pet can bring great pleasure into our lives, and is believed to have a therapeutic effect on the owner. For empty nesters and those who've delayed or opted out of having kids, pets almost take the place of children. We bond with our pets especially because they don't judge us. Dogs in particular offer the kind of unconditional love we all crave. They're always thrilled to have us around!

So, how do we spoil our pets?

Probably in much the same way that we spoil our children! Aside from all of the care attention lavished on America's pets, a tremendous amount of money is spent providing goods and services that were once deemed a luxury-- but is now considered essential.

Today's dog sees the vet for regular checkups. She eats premium dog food and munches on gourmet doggie treats, is enrolled in obedience classes, and runs agility courses. She has her own collections of toys, clothing, and possibly even dog jewelry and canine cologne. She sleeps indoors on a luxury orthopedic bed and takes shelter outdoors in her cedar dog house. She wears a safety harness when riding in the family car, a reflective vest on hunting trips, and rain gear in foul weather. She can even dodge UV rays with a pair of doggie sunglasses. Her responsibilities are few.

I could go on (don't worry, at some point I will!). But one of the most notable signs that we regard our dogs as members of our family is the fact that we buy them gifts. A dog gift for the holidays, a dog gift for a special occasion, or a dog gift to show our appreciation for how much our dogs appreciate us. Any reason will do. Heck, we even wrap our dog gifts!
Here are some very interesting statistics regarding gifts for pets:

• More than half of U.S. households have pets, and many of them are including their "best friends" in holiday plans.
• According to a survey conducted by the Pet Supplies "Plus" chain, 97% of its customers will buy gifts for their animals this Yuletide season.
• 28% of owners will spend more on their pets than on their spouses when buying gifts.
• 47% will spend more on their pets than on relatives other than their spouse.
• 54% will spend more on their pets than on their in-laws.
• 83% will wrap their pets' gifts.
• 68% claim that their pets will unwrap presents themselves with their paws.
• 71% will buy something practical for them.

Buying gifts for our pets is only the half it. If someone we know is a pet lover, we often show our support by giving the person a pet-related gift. And, since the saying goes, "love me, love my dog", there's often pressure to throw in a little dog gift for Spike too. For a casual dog-loving acquaintance, our dog lover gift might be a simple coffee mug with a picture of their favorite dog breed. A set of plush doggie-themed golf club covers could make an amusing gift for a colleague. Maybe Aunt Janine has a collection of dog figurines we can add to. Or, at the other end of the spectrum, one could splurge on a diamond-studded doggie themed bracelet for the wife (although I wouldn't recommend this as an anniversary gift. Unless you're very sure). And a new house for Spike.

The good news is, there's no shortage of goods and services to inspire even the most rabid of dog lovers and dog gift shoppers. And dog lover gift shoppers. Whether the names on your gift list are human or canine, you'll never run out of things to buy and places to shop. If you're one of those gifted gift givers who's never at a loss for what to get and where to find it I envy you. If you're more like the rest of us, and you need a little help, you'll find plenty of ideas online (Ahem!). You can also look for future articles in this series, in which I'll hone in on various ways you can pamper and reward the dogs and dog lovers in your life.

So go ahead, spoil your furry friends. Celebrate your love for your dog, and your sister in law's love for her dog. Shower them with goodies and gifts. It's a dog's life. And if I get to come back for another round, I want it to be as one of those lucky dogs!