Loving and Caring for Your Dog - Blog - Australian Local Business Directory

Having a dog is a real gift and a true blessing. You are never alone when you have "man's best friend" by your side. Your dog is the friend who will never judge you, just love you. If capable, he or she will defend you without fail. All "Rover" asks is to have a special place in your life where he is treated with love and respect. Whether you have had your dog from the time it was a "pup," or you got it at an older age, you know that you have fallen in love with him or her. Otherwise, you would not be reading this article. Always remember that your dog cannot fend for itself. It is dependent upon you and and the great care that you give to him.

Keeping Your Dog Happy:

People and dogs alike want to feel happy. Happiness is a relatively easy thing to give your dog, if you are aware and vigilant. The primary prerequisites are nutritious food, fresh water, an occasional bath, time for exercise and play, in addition to kind words each and every day. The day you get a dog, it becomes a family member. Treat it well, as you would all other family members. Make your pup extra happy by giving treats once in a while.

Discipline:

You should never beat your dog nor "spank" him. As soon as Rover has done the "deed," he already knows that he displeased you. Animals can "feel" the feelings that you have coming off of you. They can read displeasure on your face and hear it in your voice. Screaming and yelling does not help when training a dog, nor is it good for yours and the dog's relationship. When a person beats a dog and screams and yells, the only thing that person does is teach the dog to be afraid of him, the owner. When disciplining, gently place one hand under the dog's chin, while pointing the finger of your other hand at his face and calmly tell him "That's a bad dog." This places a bit of guilt and shame on him. You want to be certain that neither is excessive. When discipline can be defined as too harsh, it leaves your dog feeling demoralized.

As you are training your dog, please remember that praise is important. Praise will reinforce behavior more than discipline ever will. The praise technique leaves both the dog and owner feeling much better than does the ordeal of disciplining a pet.

Caring for Your Dog's Health at Home:

Grooming is an important aspect of an animal's health. Being clean also makes Rover feel good. If a "haircut" is in order, you may wish to take him to a groomer for a professional job. Some people are able to do this task themselves. If you do not know how to do a grooming, you can always be taught by a groomer. The dog may feel more comfortable if he is being tended to at home. Some professionals offer an "at home" service, where they come to you to do the job. It may or may not cost a bit more. If the groomer has no overhead, it is possible that it may be cheaper.

Flea, tick and mosquito control can also be done by you. Ask the veterinarian what product he or she recommends. There are many on the market and some are safer than others. They are not all alike. Once you have the information, it is an easy job to do.

De-worming is better done through the vet, where the dog's stool can be tested for type and variety of worms. Then the proper medication can be prescribed. A trip to the vet once a year is recommended for worm testing and a general check-up. Any follow-up shots can be renewed at the same time. You will be given a rabies tag for proof that your pup has been immunized. Do not forget to renew your dog license every year. Taking care of all of these details at one time makes it so much easier to remember than if it is done piece-meal.

A Place for Rover:

Rover will need to be confined on your property. A fence is the ideal way. A chain on a "run" is all right for short periods of time. Getting outside and breathing fresh air is vital for the dog's health.

Taking your dog for a walk is good for both of you. It is especially important if you are living in a confined apartment with no yard. Certain breeds, such as Poodles, Chihuahuas and "Pugs" do better in an apartment. Obviously, a larger variety needs room to run and to sprawl. Do a little research on dogs and apartment life. This will serve you well. Living in the city means that you need to find a calm place to walk the dog. Street traffic may be too unsettling for both of you.

Love will work miracles in all areas of caring for your dog. The biggest miracle is that the love will come back to you ten-fold. Remember, dog spelled in reverse spells God.