Preparing for the 4th of July.

 More dogs go missing on the 4th of July than any other day. If you think of the traditions of the holiday from a dog's point of view, it is a bunch of loud noises they don't understand and they get scared and run.

Plan ahead to keep your dog safe. 

Make sure your dog is wearing an up to date ID tag with your address and phone number. Having a county license on your dog will help get them home faster if they are picked up and taken to the county kennel. If your dog isn't microchipped, make an appointment with your vet or find a low cost micro chip clinic in your area. 

Next, take a walk around your yard and think about security from the point of view of a frightened dog. Make sure your fence and gates are secure. Make sure fence panels aren't loose so your dog can slide underneath. Look for any areas where your dog has been digging. That is likely to be a low point and an easy escape route.  I make it a point to walk the fence perimeter in my back yard a couple times a week to make sure nothing has changed or come loose. High wind weather events seem to be more common now, make sure you check fences and gates after the storm has passed.

Puppies and young dogs can be desensitized to loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms. Have very high value treats available, be inside with windows closed to mute the noise as much as possible and use your positive marker word or clicker after every boom and then treat. As long as the puppy isn't overwhelmed you should see them begin to anticipate that click/marker and treat with every noise. Pay attention to the weather forecast, if storms are forecast be ready to train. 

If you have a dog that is noise sensitive there are products available that can help. We carry herbal based products from Ark Naturals and Open Farm that help to keep your dog calm. These work best if given in advance of the storm or fireworks so planning ahead is important. If your dog needs more than herbal supplements, Clean Remedies CBD tincture is a wonderful addition to a treatment plan. 

Keep your dog safe this 4th of July. Keep them indoors, windows closed, fan or music going. A licky mat or puzzle toy will help keep them busy and focussed, too. Come in and talk to us, we can help you find what you need.

How To Keep Your Dog's Paws Healthy And Happy

 Just like human feet, your dog's paws can take a beating. Hot temperatures, rough surfaces and not knowing when to quit running or playing can take it's toll. So, what can you do to help?

Be aware of surface temperatures. On hot, sunny days avoid black top, it can actually cause burns. Walk early in the day before black top heats up. It can hold heat, so be careful in the evening. Cement/concrete is usually cooler, but check the temperature with your hand before you walk your dog on to it. 

Sometimes seasonal allergies show as itchy feet in dogs, and can make them very uncomfortable. Skout's Honor makes a Probiotic based Paw Spray that is very helpful in relieving the itch. I spray it on and then distract the dog from licking their paws for 10 minutes while it soaks in. 

Skout's Honor Paw Balm is a great way to prevent rough, dry paw pads. Using it regularly will help prevent pads from cracking and bleeding. Again, be prepared to distract your dog from paw licking for at least 10 minutes after applying. It won't hurt them if they lick it, these formulas are non toxic, but you get better results if the product has time to soak in. Apply it directly to the pads and work it in between the pads with your fingers. Having treats handy is also very helpful, reward even a little cooperation!

Skout's Honor has a full line of grooming products, from shampoos to ear cleaner and even a great skunkwash if your dog gets sprayed. We are happy to help you choose the products that will work best for you.