Parker's Pointers

Yes we are letting the cat out of the bag…cats are cool!

Sharing life with humans though a domestication process that some suggest started as much as 12,000 years ago, cats are clearly a favorite of American pet owners numbering nearly 86 million in the U.S.

            What is so cool about cats? Oh, the list is long! Cats require less “taking care of” than dogs mostly because they use a litter pan and don’t have to be let outside multiple times per day. Kittens somehow just seem to know to use the litter pan without being taught. Cats are also a bit more solitary by nature. But not me I love to great all our guest at the front desk! They are not pack animals and hunt alone in the wild so they do not have to feel the need to be constantly social.

            Did you know cats can jump five times their height? Their agility is fascinating to watch and their curious nature makes them quite entertaining to play with (and sometimes frustrating when they are curious about things you want them to stay away from). The staff here at Pampered Pets sometimes gets frustrated with me when I'm trying to help them on the computers!  Cats are also very interesting vocally. They can make over 100 sounds (dogs can make about one tenth of that) and purring is a sound they can make even while eating.

            There is much more to be said about why cats are cool. Stay tuned to future blogs and learn from veterinarians regarding common feline health issues as well as tips for cat owners and some fun facts. We hope you find this blog as fun as I find catnip…you’ll be fascinated full of joy and happiness but please stop short of rolling around on the ground or you be labeled a Crazy Cat Person!

Ø  ♥ Parker

Getting Ready for Shedding Season

Are you finding the "hair Bunnies" all over your house?  It is that time of year when you pets are "Blowing their Coat"!

 

Shedding

Every hair in the dogs coat grows from a hair follicle which has a cycle of growing, then dying and being replaced by another follicle. When the follicle dies, the hair is shed.  The length of time of the growing and shedding cycle varies by breed, age, and by whether the dog is an inside or outside dog..

Many dogs shed their undercoat each spring and re-grow it again as colder weather comes in; or loose it as warmer weather approaches, this is also referred to as blowing the coat. Many domesticated breeds shed their coat twice a year. In some climates the topcoat and undercoat might shed continuously in greater and smaller quantities all year.

 

A good diet rich in omega oils, flax seed, whole proteins and daily brushing will help get your pet and your furniture through another season of fluff!!

Our specialized treatments will speed the process of helping the coat to shed free so you can leave the mess here at the salon instead of all over your house!

Deshed treatment vs Furminator

The De-Shed !!

 

The Process- We blow out the pets coat while dry and watch the fur FLY!! Bathe with a FuRminator deshedding shampoo and solution which allows the loose fur to slip away easily, as it is coated in omega oils, amino acids and deep conditioning emollients. We then blow the coat while the conditioner is being absorbed and this ensures each strand of fur gets the benefit! Then we fluff them dry and brush, rake and strip out undercoat with special tools depending on the coat type. Concentrating on areas where undercoat is tufting out. We pull test the coat to ensure all loose undercoat has been removed and give one last blow out to free all loose fur! This is recommended for light to extremely heavy shedding and also puts moisture back into skin and coat!

 

FuRminator

When referring to a FuRminating this is a 15 minutes process of raking the pets coat with the –FuRminator- tool. This removes dead and shedding coat and is recommended for pets in between major shedding cycles because it is not as intensive as The De-Shed. And will take care of light shedding.

 

Some dog breeds have been promoted as hypoallergenic (which means less allergic, not free of allergens) because they shed very little. However, no canine is known to be completely non-allergenic. Often the problem is with the dog's saliva or dander, not the fur. Although poodles and terriers (and mixes of poodles and terriers) are commonly represented as being hypoallergenic, the reaction that an individual person has to an individual dog may vary greatly. In treating dog related allergies, it has been found that "Factors related to individual dogs seem to influence the allergy sufferer more than breed.

 

 

Exercising with Your Pets

Man's best friend is battling one of man’s worst enemies -- obesity. Up to 40% of dogs in the U.S. weigh too much. Like people, overweight dogs are at risk for health problems, from arthritis to heart disease. This is one challenge you and your pet can face together. Research suggests people who exercise with their dogs are more likely to stick to a fitness program. The key is finding activities you both enjoy.

We believe pets who have activity and interaction with people are happy and healthier.  We list some fun activities for you to do with your pet to help develop a great bond and keep the extra pounds off of both of you.


Walking

Brisk walking is an ideal exercise for human and hound. The benefits include a stronger heart, lower blood pressure, more energy, denser bones, and a lower risk of depression. In dogs, regular walks can also reduce common behavior problems. "There's no set rule for how far a dog should walk," says Kathy Scott, DVM, of Texas A&M University. "Just work slowly toward a goal with a gradual increase in the speed and length of walks." A trip to the vet for your dog and a doctor's checkup for you is recommended before starting an exercise program.

Dancing
If long walks don't entice you, try dancing with your dog. Also called musical freestyle, you choreograph a dance routine to upbeat music. You'll have your pooch running between your legs and performing other tricks, while both of you get an aerobic workout. The benefits of dance include burning calories and developing greater stamina, better balance, lower blood pressure, and improved muscle tone and bone density

Jogging
Not all dogs are built to jog. Greyhounds, for example, are pros at short-distance sprinting, but can become fatigued during long-distance runs. If you want to jog with your dog, choose a breed that is suited to distance-running, such as a Labrador. Wait until your pup is full grown and then gradually build up to a 30-minute excursion. This should include five minutes of warm-up, 20 minutes of jogging, and five minutes of cool down. Remember that dogs can’t sweat, so avoid the hot times of the day and stop if your dog is lagging behind you.

Frisbee
Frisbee offers a classic canine workout. You can play a relaxed game in your own yard or join a formal "Disc Dog" team. Participating in competitions may give you and your dog greater motivation to practice regularly. "Goal-oriented sports are great," says Scott, "because they not only allow the dog to exercise, but also are a fun activity that allows for continued behavior training and contributes to the owner-pet bond."

Hiking
If your area offers hiking opportunities, you’ve got one lucky dog. "Most dogs love to go out and visit new smells, see other animals," states Scott, "all while spending time with their owner." Like walking, you’ll need to maintain a brisk enough pace to elevate your heart rate. And if you live in an area where ticks carry Lyme disease, make sure you cover up and apply an insect repellent containing DEET -- and have your dog vaccinated. After hiking, inspect your body for ticks and do the same for your dog.

Agility Training
Agility training is another popular goal-oriented sport. Your dog races through an obstacle course with ladders, hurdles and tunnels, while you run alongside offering praise and encouragement. The fast pace provides both of you with an excellent cardiovascular workout, while your dog also develops improved coordination. Participate in organized competitions or look for a park with an agility course you can use on your own time.
Doga
Downward-dog takes on a whole new spin when you bring your dog to yoga class. "Doga" incorporates your pet into Hatha yoga poses. For example, you recline in resting pose with your legs bent over your terrier's torso. Classes are springing up across the country, but this is no fat-burner for Fido. "It should be a very nice experience for the human-animal bond," Scott says, "but I'm not sure I'd consider it a valid exercise plan for dogs."
Soccer
If you're a soccer fanatic, why not make your dog a fan, too? Check your pet supply store for soccer-style exercise balls for dogs. These are made of hard plastic and come in different sizes to suit your particular breed. You kick the ball, and your dog tries to pass it back with his nose or paws. You can also use a regular soccer ball made for people -- just be careful about kicking the ball directly at your dog's face or body.
Rollerblading
People who enjoy rollerblading may be afraid to bring their pup along. No one wants to be yanked off the sidewalk whenever Sparky spots a squirrel. But experts say rollerblading with your leashed dog can be safe with proper training. The goal is to have your dog run right next to you without pulling on the leash. You may be able to encourage this behavior by giving her treats whenever she runs in the correct position.

Cycling
Like rollerblading, cycling safely with your dog requires special training. Teach your dog to run next to the bicycle without pulling. You may want to attach her leash to your bike with a Springer. This is a device that absorbs some of the force of your dog’s tugs, which could help you keep your balance if she pulls suddenly. Keep a close eye on your dog's condition. It's easy for her to overdo it if she's running while you're on wheels.
Dog Park
To provide a chance for off-leash play, find a local dog park. Off-leash running and playing lets your dog set his own pace, so he can burn energy and rest when he's tired. Other perks include the chance to socialize and the mental stimulation that comes with unfettered exploration. Dog owners also get a workout trying to keep up with their pets. It's a good idea to complete some obedience training before allowing your dog off-leash.
Skijooring
Cross-country skiing offers a vigorous workout. Just 20 minutes, three days a week, may deliver as many health benefits as walking 30 minutes, five days a week. If your dog is athletic and weighs at least 30 pounds, he may qualify as your ski buddy. In skijooring, your dog is harnessed to you while you ski. Beginners should consider an introductory course with skijooring safety tips for man and beast.
Fetch
Fetching a ball or favorite toy over and over can be great exercise for your dog. But it doesn't do much for you, if you're just standing there tossing. Instead, make a game of fetch part of your home workout routine. Do lunges or abdominal crunches as you throw the ball. You might build more muscle by throwing a heavy ball, but a soft, lightweight toy is safest for your dog's mouth.

Getting Started
When making your dog your exercise buddy, step one is a trip to the vet. "A good vet evaluation is always important before changing your dog's lifestyle," Scott explains. "The veterinarian will want to evaluate your dog for any heart, lung, or other health problems." It's also important to check for signs of arthritis or musculoskeletal disease. A dog with inflamed joints or ligaments may require a low-impact exercise plan.

Establishing a Routine
Develop a workout routine that's realistic, considering your job schedule and other demands on your time. Also consider your dog's needs -- working breeds and juvenile dogs usually need a lot of exercise. Start with a short-term goal of exercising just five or 10 minutes every day. Gradually work up to 30 minutes on most days of the week. Keep in mind that deep-chested breeds, such as Danes or Doberman pinschers, should not exercise right after meals.

Avoiding Overkill
When exercising with your dog, watch for signs that one of you may be overdoing it. You may be working too hard if you are too breathless to carry on a conversation. Your dog may be overworked if he is breathing fast, panting excessively, staggering, or refusing to follow you. If either of you are stiff, sore, or exhausted for hours after a workout, take it easier next time.

Preventing Heat Exhaustion
Just like people, dogs are susceptible to dehydration and heat exhaustion. On hot days, Scott suggests bringing a water bottle and foldable drinking bowl or sticking to places with a public water source. Signs of dehydration in dogs include excessive panting, confusion, weakness, and collapse. Brachycephalic or short-faced breeds, such as bulldogs and boxers, are especially vulnerable because they don't pant efficiently.

Paw Protection
Long walks on rough surfaces can damage a dog's paws. Start slowly, Scott advises. If you work your way up to longer walks, "most dogs will develop thicker pads on their feet and not have problems." On hot days, avoid prolonged contact with asphalt or sand. On snowy days, check the paws for ice build-up. And if you venture onto very rough surfaces, consider buying a set of dog booties.

Gentle Exercises for Older Dogs
Just because your senior dog moves with a slower, stiffer gait then when he was a pup doesn't mean he should stop exercising. Senior dogs, especially those with arthritis, not only can exercise -- in many cases, they should. Exercise helps increase flexibility and endurance, strengthens muscles around the joints, and can help stave off health problems caused by obesity. Exercise also aids bowel function, which is especially important in older

Pointers From Parker - Why it is important to have a trained Dog

One of my many jobs at Pampered Pets Bed & Biscuit is to help Brenda with dog training.  I'm a great distraction for the dogs during a training session.  While I was surfing the internet I found this information about "Why it is important to have a trained Dog"  One the most important reason - which I did not find any reference to - is so when the dog decides to chase after the master of the house "THE CAT" you can recall them back to your side!

Obedience training is one of the most important aspects of raising a dog. In fact, a well trained dog is by far a happier dog! Why? Because a trained dog requires fewer restrictions. The more reliable the dog, the more freedom he is given.


And when company arrives in your home, there's no need to banish a well-behaved dog to another room for fear that he will be a royal nuisance. Moreover, because a well-mannered, obedience-trained dog is both appreciated and welcome, he receives more attention and interaction from family members, visitors, and passers-by, than does the ill-mannered dog.


You As Your Dog's Leader
Training serves to strengthen the bond between a dog and his owner. It builds communication, understanding, and mutual respect, and subtly but effectively demonstrates to your dog that you're the leader of the pack (commonly referred to as the "Alpha" or "THE CAT"). And if your dog doesn't respect you as his leader, you may both be in big trouble, particularly if he's a bit rowdy or dominant by nature.


Training May Save Your Dog's Life
Obedience training also gives the dog owner the voice control necessary to prevent numerous potential tragedies. For instance, should a dog slips out of his collar in the middle of a congested traffic intersection, he can be safely heeled across the street, then given a sit command to facilitate putting his collar back on. Or should someone accidentally leave the front door open, and you spot your dog leaving, he can be safely called back to you using the recall command.

Not only will obedience training help your dog to become more responsive, but because it enables you to have immediate control over your dog's behavior, in an emergency situation obedience training may save your dog's life. In fact, it can ultimately save the lives of many dogs, because far fewer dogs would end up in animal shelters if their owners would simply take the time to train them.

And for those dogs who do need homes, a trained dog is far easier to adopt out to a new home than an untrained one.

Statistics also show that puppies which receive early socialization, obedience, and temperament training (aggression prevention training) are far less likely to end up being surrendered by the time they turn three years of age than those that do not receive this early training.


The Consequences Of An Untrained Dog
Without proper training, many dogs are likely to misbehave. And when owners allow their dogs to misbehave, everyone suffers: The owner, because he or she lives with a dog, the dog, because everyone's down on him for misbehaving; the dog's owner's neighbors, because living next to a difficult dog is no one's idea of fun; and ultimately every dog owner, because each incidence where a dog creates a nuisance increases anti-dog sentiment, and contributes to the likelihood that tough legal restrictions will be placed on all dogs.


Obedience Training Benefits Everyone
A well-behaved, obedience trained dog is a pleasure to own because he can go virtually anywhere without being a risk or nuisance to others. And don't we all want a dog who exhibits appropriate behavior in a crowd, good manners when we have guests in our home, is reliable around children, and who doesn't threaten other dogs or passers-by?

The bottom line is that dog obedience training truly benefits everyone.

Dogs and Cats can live together in peace if...... the dog has manners!!


 ♥Parker

Pointers From Parker - How do I keep Myself looking Fabulous!

Ever wonder why some cats always look sleek and beautiful and others look like...well, like something the cat dragged in? While it's true that some cats (like Me) are just born with "good hair," a lot of it has to do with grooming. Now, we cats are fastidious critters. We tend to take care of ourselves pretty well, always licking our fur to keep it clean and in its proper place. But any cat can go from Fluffy to Scruffy without a little help from his human pals. 

So I spent the day in the spa at Pampered Pets Bed & Biscuit just to see what I was missing.  Let me tell you, I had a great time.  I first had a nice warm bath.  Now I know what you are thinking cats don’t like water but that is not 100% true.  When the bath is given slowly and at the right temperature we really enjoy it. After my fur was completely dry I was brushed with this fantastic rubber brush and it removed all the loose hair – this is great now I will not cough up a hair ball after I groom myself!

While my groomer was brushing me I asked her why cat grooming is important.  This is what she told me:

1) Cat grooming removes excess hair, which helps to minimize hairballs.

2) Combing or brushing your cat will prevent tangles and mats.

3) Cat grooming also allows you to give your cat a quick checkup. It alerts you to things such as fleas, mites, hair mats, or miscellaneous objects that get stuck in the fur such as thistles or burs.

4) Brushing cats will stimulate their skin’s glands and help to keep their coat healthy, shiny and soft.

5) Also, grooming will help remove dirt and excess fur, which will end up in your house and on your furniture.

If your cat has a bad mat or tangle -- or gets something nasty on her fur – It is best to get help from a professional groomer. If your cat just doesn't seem to be cooperating with home grooming, schedule an appointment with a professional. While you're there, ask for some tips and a demonstration of basic techniques. My groomers are always happy to do this for clients.

Remember the Spa is not just for the dogs!

♥Parker

Specialty Pet Training Courses and Workshops

Is your New Year's resolution a better trained dog?

Start the New Year right by training your dog to be the well-behaved dog you always knew she/he could be! We have a great new line-up of SPECIALTY PET TRAINING Courses  to help you make 2012 the best year for you and your dog!

Kinderpuppy

The Kinderpuppy Course is an extensive and in-depth 8 week training program designed for puppies 8 to 18 weeks of age. This course provides puppies with the foundation necessary to be a great pet. Developed by renowned dog trainer and veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Messer, this course focuses on socialization and basic training, two of the most important things you can provide to your puppy. This Kinderpuppy Course has been described as “An optimal curriculum for the most important course in a dog’s life” by popular dog trainer and author, Jean Donaldson. Dr. Ian Dunbar says, “Dr. Messer’s Kinderpuppy Course is simply the very best course material you will find.”

The Kinderpuppy Course curriculum includes puppy handling and socialization to people, proper play and socialization with other puppies, self-control training exercises, and training the basics, such as sit, down, stay, and come. Included in the training curriculum are lots of fun games, making this class very family friendly. Children’s participation is heavily encouraged!

Drop-In Puppy Socialization Saturdays

In addition to our Puppy Pack Mondays and new Kinderpuppy course, Pampered Pets will soon be offering Drop-In Puppy Socialization Saturdays! When your puppy is between the ages of 8 to 18 weeks, they are going through a very important time in their development. This critical period is their socialization period. The more positive and safe experiences you can give your puppy, the better! Without proper and broad socialization, a puppy may grow up to be scared, timid, or even aggressive of new places, people, or things. The best and easiest way to prevent behavioral issues in puppies or adult dogs is early and comprehensive socialization. Bring your puppy to Puppy Socialization Saturdays for as many sessions as you feel necessary and learn vital socialization do’s and don’ts. You will be an active participant to the hands-on process of socializing your young puppy!

We will be socializing your young puppy to:

·        Human touch and handling

·        Grooming procedures and tools

·        New people, New places, New noises

·        Friendly adult dogs

·        Other Young puppies!

Puppy Manners and Doggy Manners

Puppy manners is a new six week class for graduates of the Kinderpuppy Course or puppies that missed the age requirement for Kinderpuppy. Doggy Manners is a class for adult dogs that haven’t yet been through a group class or can also be taken as continued practice for Kinderpuppy or Puppy Manners graduates.

Manners classes curriculum includes:

Ø Name Recognition and Attention

Ø Sit, Down, and Stand

Ø Loose Leash Walking

Ø Leave It & Take It

Ø Stay

Ø Come

Ø Four on the Floor (No Jumping)

Canine Good Citizen Preparation Course - Ohio location only
This six week course focuses on expanding on what your dog has already learned in the Manners classes. Dogs and puppies practice their new manners and skills around a variety of distractions and in new circumstances. Dogs continue to practice and improve their skills in preparation for the Canine Good Citizen test.

The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. The CGC Program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community.  All dogs, including both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program and upon completion receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. For more information on the Canine Good Citizen program, please visit www.akc.org/events/cgc.

One Topic Classes/Workshops

 Is your dog a great dog, but just has that one bad habit?  Don’t have time to commit to a 6-8 week training program? Has your dog already completed some training, but needs some extra practice in a certain area? These might be the classes for you! Come to this workshop and get a crash course and practice that one issue that needs more work! One Topic classes include:

1. Four on the Floor
2. Loose Leash Walking
3. Problem Solving

Trick Training Class

A great way to make training your pet a family activity for the whole family! Trick training enriches your dog’s life by providing mental stimulation and is a great way to include your children in the training process! Tricks make training fun for everyone! Trick training also is a great way to tire your pup out on cold, rainy days or when you have been snowed in. In this class/workshop, we will focus on teaching your dog at least one trick. Quick learners may be introduced to a few tricks.  Tricks to learn include: shake, high five, speak, beg, play dead, rollover, crawl, and the list goes on. You may also bring your own ideas of tricks you would like to teach your dog and I will help show you how!  This class/workshop can be taken unlimited amount of times. We look forward to trick training with you and your pooch!

Call for more details

Napoleon, Ohio 419-592-7387

Fort Wayne Indiana 260-489-7387

Pointers From Parker: Holiday Safety Tips Part Two

It is starting to look a lot like Christmas

I just love a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, with all those sparkling balls!

Christmas Trees and Cat Behavior

Tree attraction is natural. Kitty thinks you've bought her a new climbing perch, complete with cat toys that swing, sparkle, and invite paw-pats and biting. Cats love heights and the Christmas tree challenges them to climb-and knock the whole thing down. Some cats take "aim" at the tree just as they would your outside shrubs and baptize the greenery. Cat play includes using teeth and claws to target twinkling lights and dangling ornaments.

Instead, smaller trees can be set on table tops, inside of baby play pens, or in a room protected by a baby gate. Situate breakable and dangerous decorations on the top of the tree out of reach of inquisitive pets.

Create a Cat Christmas Tree for your cat's enjoyment. Attach guy-wires or twine to protect topple-prone trees from the cat's airborne assault. Just make sure the ornaments are kitty safe. Decorating with catnip mice and kitty treats, fresh mint or dried or silk flowers, bows, strings of beads or popcorn instead of tinsel, soft sparkle-ball pom-poms and soft cat toys. Keeping them on the lower branches encourages the cats to stay at floor level.

If you have a live tree cats may drink from the water in the tree base. Anything added-fertilizer, preservatives, aspirin-can make pets sick. Chewing tree lights, swallowing tinsel, eating tree needles or other holiday décor can kill a pet.

Instead, make the area around the tree unattractive to keep paws at bay. Aluminum foil deters many cats since they dislike walking on that odd-feeling surface. Silver foil also offers a festive holiday look, so use this as a tree apron around the base. Or, invest in some clear plastic carpet protectors and place under the tree-nub side up. That makes cruising or lounging under the tree uncomfortable.

The soft "tacky mats" available from home product stores designed to keep throw rugs from sliding around work well to keep cats away because they dislike walking on sticky surfaces. Another option is

Sticky Paws which is a double-sided tape product designed for cat training. Sticky Paws now is available in larger sheets as well as strips that you can apply directly to carpets beneath the tree, or to place mats situated on table tops or wherever needed.

Use your cat's smell sense to keep her away from the tree. Citrus scents are off-putting to cats so scatter orange or lemon peels (or potpourri) around the base of the tree. Vicks

With proper preparation, your holidays can be enjoyable for your whole family. Save a few empty boxes and ragged bows after the gift-giving frenzy. Boxes, bags, crinkled wrapping paper and other "cheap thrills" will encourage your cat will forgive any perceived snub regarding the holidays.

Have a great & Safe Holiday!

Love Parker :)