Posts Tagged ‘dog jogging stroller’
Surprise in a Stroller
My work schedule is such that it’s not always possible to stop and chat with old friends; still, I try to make the effort. A short while ago I was walking down a busy street on the way to catch a train when an old sorority sister hailed me from across the street. I was intrigued to see her wheeling a stroller. Were we so out of touch now that I didn’t know this woman had a baby?
Much to my surprise, a wet, black nose protruded from inside the carriage. My friend was taking her Chihuahua for a stroll down the street. At first I had to question why she couldn’t just let the dog walk alongside. After a while it began to make sense, however: Small dogs have a hard time keeping up with a brisk human gait. Lately I’ve even been thinking about finding a dog stroller to suit my Jack Russell terrier.
Medicated Dogs?
Genuine separation anxiety can be a serious problem for a dog. It is much more than simply having a dog that barks and cries when you leave the house. With genuine separation anxiety your dog cannot stand to be away from you even when you’re home. He follows you from room to room. He may become so stressed about being near you that he will use the bathroom in the house. He can even bark and cry for you when you are gone and there are other people present. And he will do these things if you are gone for 30 minutes or less. Dogs with separation anxiety may also dig, chew, scratch themselves, or exhibit other kinds of destructive behavior. Separation anxiety is a psychological condition and it may require medication for treatment.
Separation anxiety can occur with any dog but it is most common with dogs who have been abused, abandoned or with those which were not properly socialized when young. No one knows exactly what causes it but you should know that it is an actual anxiety condition. When your dog does these things he is not disobeying you or being deliberately destructive. Even if he is housebroken or normally well-behaved, he cannot help his behavior when he has this much anxiety. A combination of medication and behavior modification can allow him to live a normal life again.
If you suspect that your dog has separation anxiety you should first consult with your veterinarian. He or she can rule out any physical reasons for your dog’s problems. Your vet may recommend a complete blood count, urinalysis and other tests. Once other causes are ruled out your vet may prescribe one of the medications often used for separation anxiety, such as clomipramine and amitriptyline. These drugs should be given exactly as prescribed. They must be taken regularly and not just when your dog is showing symptoms of anxiety. It may take several weeks for them to begin to be effective so it’s necessary to follow the prescription and directions precisely.
Once your dog begins to respond to medication it’s a good idea to consult with an animal behavioral consultant. This professional can try some behavior modification techniques to try to help your dog. Your vet may also be able to help you with these behavior modification exercises. These exercises will work on some of the behaviors your dog exhibits under stress, such as barking or housebreaking problems. Your dog may not be able to respond to these exercises until he is taking medication to reduce his anxiety. That’s why behavior modification usually comes after medication has begun.
It’s also a good idea to make sure your dog gets plenty of outdoor exercise. Exercise in general will be good for him and it will help provide some positive stimulation for him. Don’t forget mental stimulation, too. Do things at home with your dog. Provide toys and chews for him so he won’t get bored.
If you still must leave your dog during the day while you work (and most of us do), consider taking your dog to a doggy daycare where he will be around other people and dogs. Or think about taking him to a friend’s house during the day, or getting a pet sitter to come to your house. These things will all help your dog cope with your absence; at least until his separation anxiety is under control.
Genuine separation anxiety is a serious psychological problem and it needs a combination of treatments. Don’t give up hope. Your dog can be treated and live a normal life again. You will be able to leave the house without your best friend falling to pieces. It just takes patience and treatment.
Gift of Adoption
If you read the newspapers or watch the news you have a slight idea of the animal abuse that occurs day in and day out. It is a never ending battle of what the American Humane Society fights daily.
I am taking a hint from the American Humane Society and asking that if you are thinking of adopting a pet for a family member or friend, please remember that it is a huge decision to take on your own. You may have the best of intentions to rescue an animal in need but if the receiver of that gift that does not appreciate the gesture than it is more heartbreaking and confusing for the animal to have to return the adoption center.
The best way to give the gift of adoption is to wrap a dog collar, dog toys or a horse halter in a box and present that as a gift with a card. In the card let them know that you are giving the gift of adoption to them at a time when they can visit a shelter and choose the best pet for them.
Providing a gift in this way is providing happiness for both the animal and the person receiving your gift.
Check out www.americanhumane.org for more information on adoption.
Pet Holiday?
Just a quick question for everyone.
Do you do anything special for your pets during the holidays?
I know we usually have special gifts and we hang a stocking for them. Maybe its the time of year to give a new collar or leash. Or maybe even a special new halter.
A stroll in the park with your dog…or anywhere else
Many think that dog strollers are an unnecessary and costly pet accessory. I would say that those that make that statement are not pet owners or more specifically, dog owners. Strollers are not just for the rich and famous or simply for esthetic purposes. There is more to them than meets the eye, especially, if you have a pet that is restricted due to surgery or injury or possibly some other health issues. My dog was stricken with a condition that took away his ability to walk for any period of time and it was the only way to be able to take him to the park. He loved to be outside.
What some do not realize is that some dogs are not able to walk a long distance or cannot for a very long time. Some walking will put undue stress on joints and muscles that cannot withstand it. While it may seem extreme, to some, strollers allowed me and my pet to make a trip to the park or down the road in a comfortable way without the need to stop and rest. I still wanted to get exercise and have him along with me. There are choices of strollers such as the Jogger Stroller, a regular push stroller and those that can be pulled in back of your bicycle.
Dog lovers and owners are purchasing dog clothes, coats, and shoes for their friends to keep them warm, dry, safe and in style. They are our companion, friend and, at times, protector. Why not treat them with the best intentions? Many manufacturers of pet products have come up with innovative ways to keep owners and pets together. There are a variety of different pet strollers available now in great colors and styles.