Dog Care Articles
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Dogs That Make A Difference
Is Your Dog's Mind Going To The Dogs?
Sending Your Dog The Wrong Message?
Go Ahead, Make A Homeless Pet's Day: Adopt From The Humane Society
Animal Laws Can Bite Back
No Excuse Not To Spay And Neuter
How To Help Emergency Vet Save Your Pet
CCI Puppy Raiser Profiles
A Smelly Pet May Need To See Vet
Use Lawn And Garden Products Cautiously Around Pets
Pets Need Disaster Plan Too
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
This summer's Olympians are not the only ones who start young, train long hours, and show true dedication to their goals. In fact, some of the most dedicated aren't even human. They are Canine Companions who train to help people with disabilities.
"Not only can Tullis give my credit card to the clerk in a store, but one of the most important things he does for me is to help break down the barriers," says Nadia Ibrahim, about her Canine Companion, Tullis, a three-year old Labrador-Golden cross. Ibrahim is a graduate student in social work at the University of Illinois in Urbana and has been with Tullis for two years.
"People are often fearful about talking to people with disabilities and Tullis breaks the ice," she says.
Canine Companions for Independence is a unique, nationwide program that helps special people with physical disabilities regain independence and self-reliance by providing them with highly trained assistance dogs. A service dog must master 50 commands, a few more than the basic "sit, stay, come" in many dogs' repertoire.
Some of the duties a service dog can help with include retrieving items, turning on and off lights, pulling wheelchairs, and alerting a deaf or hearing impared person to the sound of a smoke detector. "Tullis has been a wonderful help to me," says Ibrahim. "He opens doors, picks things up, and will go find a person to come help me if I need it."
Each dog is specially bred and then socialized by foster families who volunteer to care for the growing pup until he or she is ready to go to "college." Training to be a service dog begins with the puppy raisers: caring volunteers who give the puppy a good start. Puppy raisers bring the pup everywhere to get them used to the noisy shopping malls or busy street corners they might encounter as a service dog. In addition, the puppy gets tons of attention, basic training, love, and time to just be a puppy during this important development period.
When he is about 14 months old, the future Canine Companion begins six to nine months of intensive training. Teaching a dog to turn on lights or pick up dropped items takes a lot of gentle encouragement and persistence from both the dog and the trainer.
In the last two weeks of training, the dog, a trainer, and the recipient work together as a team. For Ibrahim and Tullis, that meant long hours and lots of practice. She says the days were packed with commands and exercises to teach the pair how to work together. Finally, when all the tests were passed, it was time for graduation and on to the real world.
"Training to work with Tullis was one of the most challenging things I've ever had to do," says Ibrahim. "And that's saying a lot because I have been disabled my whole life."
Though he may not win any gold medals this summer, this is one dog who is worth more than gold in the eyes of his human companion. The many hours Tullis and Ibrahim spent training to work together shows their true dedication to being the best they can be.
Meet Tullis and Nadia Ibrahim and support Canine Companions for Independence on Sunday, September 10, 2000, at the Omega Tau Sigma Professional Veterinary Fraternity's 5K Road Race for Animals. The race starts at 8 a.m. at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, in Urbana. Runners, walkers, and their pets are encouraged to participate in this annual event, which benefits Canine Companions for Independence (www.caninecompanions.org). For information, contact OTS (217/367-3790)
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
A typical morning for me consists of quickly feeding the dogs, pouring a cup of coffee in my commuter mug, hunting frantically for my keys and rushing out the door-without the coffee. I run back inside to collect what I forgot the first time. Now I'm not only late, but I'm convinced I am losing my mind.
If you have an older dog, you might notice similar "absent mindedness" as he gets older. And if your mornings are anything like mine, perhaps you can relate to what your dog may be going through. While your brain lapse is more likely induced by the three extra times that the alarm clock's snooze button was hit, for a senior dog, it's a biochemical change that occurs in his brain as he ages. For you and me, slowing down-and waking up earlier-should resolve that forgetfulness. And there's help for old Madeline too.
Similar to aging people, geriatric dogs-and maybe elderly cats-can suffer from a "memory" disorder called cognitive dysfunction syndrome, or CDS. CDS has been compared with Alzheimer's disease in people because the changes that occur in the brain are similar and the signs-forgetfulness, disorientation, and not recognizing family members-are comparable.
In dogs with CDS, owners notice that their older animal seems more disoriented and confused. "Dogs may seem lost in their surroundings-get lost behind a couch, or stuck in a corner, or stand at the hinge side of the door," says Dr. Jo Ann Eurell, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana with an interest in behavior. "A senior pet may not recognize family members, or may sleep all day and be up pacing all night. The most notable sign is a deterioration in house training. A dog with CDS will have a lot of accidents."
The older a dog gets, the more likely cognitive dysfunction becomes. Because dogs, like people, are living longer, owners have to watch for age-related medical and behavioral disorders. "A lot of people write off signs of forgetfulness and disorientation in pets, thinking that it's just because they are old and nothing can be done," say Dr. Eurell. "But there is treatment available that may help dogs with CDS."
If your veterinarian suspects your senior canine is experiencing the effects of CDS, he will perform a thorough examination to look for an underlying medical problem that could be causing the behavior change. "As dogs age, their bodies undergo several different changes," says Dr. Eurell. "Aging dogs are particularly prone to problems with their hearing, smell, sight, and joints. They are also at a higher risk for heart problems and metabolic conditions."
Any of these problems can sometimes also cause signs similar to those in CDS, so a veterinarian will want to make sure a disoriented dog is not suffering from another systemic illness, hearing loss, or sight loss, before trying medication for CDS.
Annual exams, or bi-annual exams, are a very important part of keeping your best friend as healthy as possible so he can really enjoy his golden years. So the trick for owners, advises Dr. Eurell, is to be vigilant and to let your veterinarian know of any behavior changes, especially if your dog is entering the golden years. Don't just dismiss senile behavior as "old age." Your veterinarian may suggest medication that may solve the problem and have your old dog learning new tricks in no time.
For more information and if you suspect your senior canine may be showing signs of CDS, contact your local small animal veterinarian.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
"Objectionable pet behavior is the No. 1 reason people have unsatisfactory relationships with their dog," says Dr. Rolan Tripp, veterinarian and behaviorist who spoke on animal behavior to veterinary students at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. More dogs die as a result of behavior problems than all preventable medical problems combined. Frustrated owners simply give up, and their untrained dogs often end up in animal shelters with uncertain fates.
Part of the problem lies in miscommunication. It's easier than you think to teach your dog the wrong thing. Well-meaning owners do it all the time. We've all seen owners yell and yell for a dog to come as the dog blissfully ignores the command, madly chasing squirrels instead. When finally the dog comes, the frustrated owner may pop the dog on the nose and yell some more. The message? Would you go to somebody who might hit and yell at you? Consistent training and positive reinforcement with treats and praise work a lot better to enforce the right message.
Teaching a dog proper behavior means knowing how to correct him when he does something inappropriate. Dr. Tripp points out that there are both good and bad ways to correct a pet. Owners should avoid spanking, kicking, "rubbing his nose in it," or yelling at a dog. Besides rarely communicating the message the owner intends, this type of correction can cause even more behavior problems.
"If you spank a dog for going to the bathroom inside, the message is, 'don't do it when I'm looking,'" says Dr. Tripp. "By rubbing his nose in it, the dog thinks, 'you want me to eat my own feces?' That can cause coprophagia [eating feces]."
Good corrections interrupt the undesirable behavior, then give a positive command, such as "sit." "When the dog doesn't 'sit,' ignore her and walk away," says Dr. Tripp. "Try again after two or three minutes of isolation. When she does it right, praise her."
Appropriate interruptions can include water spray, a collar correction, and use of a head halter. Many owners find that water in a spray bottle is an effective way to distract a barking or jumping dog, so that you can reward the opposite-being quiet. But sometimes owners will look to prong collars or choke collars for help in controlling behavior problems. Remember that these collars are not a substitute for putting in the time needed for obedience training and that they can be very dangerous.
"Collar corrections, especially choke chains, are overdone and misused by almost every owner. Used properly, a choke chain is meant to make a noisy 'pop,' not to jerk the dog around by his neck. These collars can easily damage a dog's neck, or asphyxiate and even kill a dog," says Dr. Tripp. If you want to try a correction collar, make sure you learn to use it correctly.
Head halters that go around a dog's muzzle and just behind the ears are a great alternative to the traditional neck collar, or prong collars, since they avoid putting pressure on the vertebrae of the neck, the thyroid, and trachea. They work by putting pressure on the muzzle and scruff-two areas to which a dog is naturally responsive. The collar also pulls the dog's entire head around so that when she pulls, she looks back toward the walker. "Dogs may struggle with the head halter for the first ten minutes, but after that they don't seem to notice it and are much more obedient," says Dr. Tripp.
A common history in dogs with behavior problems is that they are not walked regularly. Owners may have difficulty walking a dog that pulls, so walks become less and less frequent. A dog that is not exercised regularly will find other -- often destructive -- ways to vent his energy. That's why teaching your dog to walk calmly on a leash is so important. "If the dog pulls on the leash, change directions suddenly. Whoever determines the direction has leadership. The idea is to interrupt the bad behavior and praise the good," says Dr. Tripp.
Learning to communicate with your dog is complicated. But when it comes to dogs, a little patience and consistent training will earn you years of enjoyment. Talk to your veterinarian or enroll in a local training class to master the communication tools you need to make the most of your relationship with your dog. You'll find more behavior tips from Dr. Tripp online in the "Behavior Center" section of www.petopia.com.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
In the third year of the four-year veterinary doctoral program at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana, students examine and then spay or neuter homeless animals from the Vermilion County and Champaign County humane societies.
These animals receive the royal treatment: a thorough exam, bath, nail trim, and lots of love. Dogs are screened for internal parasites and cats are tested for deadly viruses. Animals with tricky health problems even get the attention of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital's specialists. The program builds veterinary students' skills and assures healthy animals for adoption.
For many of the veterinary students, finding their surgery dog or cat a home is almost as important a task as the surgery. "Humane society animals probably have a good chance of getting adopted if they come to the vet school because so many students end up adopting them," says Kerri Hert, a third-year veterinary student. Hert didn't plan on adopting a dog, much less a 3-month-old black Labrador mix puppy. "I just fell in love with Nick, so I brought him home," she says. "You kind of want to give them all homes. It breaks your heart to see them go back."
"It is very satisfying knowing I saved an animal," says Laura Riordan, a student who adopted a Jack Russell terrier mix named Cherry from the Champaign County Humane Society. "I think it is our responsibility to do whatever we can to help find homes for pets, especially since human carelessness has brought about the tremendous number of homeless pets."
Lori Decker adopted Heineken, a golden retriever-shepherd mix. "Heineken knew how to sit, shake, and walk on a leash and was in great condition. I can't imagine how he ended up in the shelter, but I can't imagine my life without him either," says this veterinary student.
But many veterinary students' homes are already overflowing with critters. Last month, I adopted Paddington, a 2-year-old golden retriever from Vermilion County Humane Society. I took one look at him and knew he was coming home with me to be a part of my -- now -- three-dog family. Other veterinary students have opened their homes to many more than three pets!
Veterinary students would love your help in finding good homes for the many lovable animals filling the kennels at humane societies. But before you decide to adopt a pet, make sure it is a lifetime partnership, not one that might land the pet right back where he started ? homeless. Consider the financial and time commitment a pet will require, and be sure that all roommates, family members, and your landlord agree to a new pet.
Research the traits of breeds that interest you. Dogs were originally bred to do certain jobs: huskies pulled sleds, Dalmatians kept horses company while running with carriages, and Labradors helped hunt. If you are a couch potato, make sure you don't adopt a sled dog!
Also, don't overlook an older animal. They are often easygoing and mellow animals that still have years of love to provide. Ask the humane society volunteers about the temperament of the animals and decide which ones best suit your lifestyle.
Finally, if a dog wins your heart, enroll in a training class no matter how old the dog is. It is a great way to bond with your dog and to learn how to make the most of the relationship.
When you open your heart and home to one of the many homeless pets in a humane society, you not only save an animal from uncertain fate, but you gain a lifelong friend. You can contact the Champaign County Humane Society in Urbana at 217-344-7297 or the Vermilion County Humane Society in Danville at 217-431-2660.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
Lawyers and courts are not usually the first things that come to mind when you think of your four-legged friends, but pets can be the subject of court cases. Dog and cat bites are one area where owners could find themselves in legal hot water. The CDC reports that dog bites occur in nearly 2 percent of the U.S. population, and most of those cases involved children. That's where animal laws come in.
"The statutes of the Illinois Animal Control Act are an incentive for people to keep animals under control and thereby prevent problems," says Dr. Don Uchtmann, professor of agricultural law who teaches veterinary jurisprudence at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana.
Besides requiring that dog owners keep their pets confined or on a leash in order to prevent bites, the laws assign liability when bites do occur. Often, the pet owner will be held strictly liable for any injury or damage a pet inflicts upon another person, whether or not the owner is to "blame." That's why pet owners might want to make sure their homeowner's insurance covers injury due to dog or cat bites.
"If a dog or any animal bites a human, the Animal Control Act says that anyone who has a knowledge of that bite must notify Animal Control. That includes a veterinarian, witness, or animal owner," says Dr. Uchtmann. The dog will have to be confined by a licensed vet for 10 days to observe for signs of rabies.
"The law is designed to prevent the spread of rabies," says Dr. Uchtmann. At the discretion of the animal control veterinarian, a dog with current vaccinations may be allowed to be confined in the house of the owner for rabies observation. If an animal shows signs of rabies during the observation period, it has to be euthanized and tested for rabies, and the person bit may have to receive costly rabies treatment.
Common sense can go a long way in preventing dog bites, so always obey leash laws, and rabies license laws. Make sure your dog sports identification tags to aid his homecoming should he become lost. Most dog bites come from male, unneutered dogs who tend to be more territorial and aggressive -- so spay and neuter your pets. If your dog ever snarls or snaps at a person, seek the help of your veterinarian or trainer to nip any signs of aggression in the bud. Don't allow children to walk the dog until they are physically strong enough and emotionally mature enough to understand a dog's behavior. Never leave children alone with a dog.
Children are the No.1 target of dog bites, so teaching them how to act around animals is a key to prevention. Many local humane societies can provide information that is useful for teaching children about pet safety. Here are some tips for kids:
? Never look into a dog's eyes.
? Don't tease dogs behind fences or chained up in a yard.
? Don't go near a dog running loose, and tell an adult if you see a loose dog.
? Don't run away from a dog; stand very still and quiet if a strange dog comes near.
? Don't bother a dog while it is eating or sleeping.
? Only pet a dog after you ask the owner if it is okay; then let the dog sniff a hand first before petting it.
Dogs and cats add happiness to our lives. But while most people consider dogs and cats part of their family, the law often sees them as property. It gets complicated if your animal bites somebody, so follow the local laws and ordinances, know your responsibilities as a pet owner, and encourage others to do the same. To find out more about local laws and how to prevent dog bites, contact your local Animal Control veterinarian or humane society.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Christine Merle, small animal Extension veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, recalls one client who came to her because he wanted to breed his dog. "Just one litter of puppies for the children," he said.
"I told him watching a videotape of the birth process would be a better idea," she says.
"Just one litter" may sound like a good idea-until you consider what adding 12 puppies to your family really means. "If you have puppies, you alone are responsible for that litter. Can you guarantee quality homes for 2 to 12 puppies? If not, are you prepared to have more than just one dog? Have you thought about the cost of veterinary care-check ups, shots, and deworming-for 12 dogs? And that's if they all stay healthy," says Dr. Merle. "Besides that, there are the risks of pregnancy and giving birth, just as in a human pregnancy. The puppies may need substantial veterinary care and the mother may need a cesarean section. This all adds up to a big investment in your time and money."
After that conversation with Dr. Merle, the client changed his mind and had his dog spayed instead: A good choice considering the state of the current dog and cat overpopulation epidemic. One female dog and her offspring can produce more than 4,000 offspring in only 7 years. And for cats, that number is more like 400,000! Unfortunately, only one puppy or kitten of every nine born will find homes. The rest will likely be euthanized.
But besides doing something to curb pet overpopulation, having your dog or cat spayed offers several key health benefits for the animal. Spaying your pet before her first estrous cycle, or "heat," greatly reduces her chances of developing breast cancer and eliminates the risk of uterine and ovarian cancers. "There are really not many excuses to not spay your pet. Any shelter and most reputable breeders will require that you agree to have the dog spayed or neutered," says Dr. Merle.
But, like any good tango, reproduction takes two. Though many human males cringe at the mere mention of the word, neutering a male dog is the No. 1 thing people can do to increase a dog's longevity. Why? Why did Spot cross the road? He loved the ladies on the other side. Unfortunately, Spot never made it. About 80 percent of dogs hit by vehicles every year are unneutered males. Fixing your dog or cat decreases his urge to wander and increases his chances of living a longer, healthier life. And that is only the tip of the iceberg for good reasons to neuter your dog. Testicular cancer and prostate problems commonly afflict unneutered male dogs, and neutered males are far less aggressive because they are less territorial.
"Even if your have an older adult dog or cat, it is never too late to spay or neuter," says Dr. Merle. "The health benefits decrease the longer you wait, but a little benefit is better than none at all."
2001: A Spay Odyssey-the 5th annual Spay and Neuter Week sponsored by the Champaign County Humane Society (CCHS)-takes place February 26 to March 3, 2001. To encourage pet owners to get pets spayed or neutered, the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital, along with several local veterinary clinics, will offer a special on spay and neuter surgery during Spay and Neuter Week.
For more information and to find out which local veterinarians are participating this year, check the local newspaper or call CCHS at 217/344-7297.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
The best thing about summer is spending time outside. And like their human companions, most pets love the chance to romp in the woods, swim in the streams, and frolic with their friends. Fortunately, keeping your pet out of harm's way in the summer just takes a little common sense.
"Keep your dog on a leash or under control at all times. When unattended, dogs should be inside or in a secure, escape-proof outdoor enclosure. Never let a dog ride in the back of a pickup truck," says Dr. Marc Raffe, emergency critical care veterinarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana.
But even when you have the best intentions, accidents do happen. Whether it is your dog or cat that is hurt or someone else's, the more you know, the better you'll be able to help. "The first thing to think about in an emergency situation is your safety," says Dr. Raffe. "Don't turn one accident into two. Look for cars before dashing into the street after a pet. If your pet is injured in the street, have someone redirect traffic so you can move the animal to a safe place where he can be carefully looked over."
Before moving an injured animal, check the following. Is the animal conscious? Breathing? Bleeding? "If a dog has stopped breathing, try nose-to-mouth ventilation. Seal the lips by pinching them shut, then blow through the nose to ventilate the lungs. If a pet is bleeding profusely, use direct pressure with a clean towel or T-shirt," says Dr. Raffe.
But don't try any of this with a conscious animal in severe pain. "Pets will not behave normally in a traumatic situation. Even friendly pets may bite when in pain," says Dr. Raffe. "Try wrapping the animal in a towel or blanket. Covering the animal's head and eyes serves two purposes: calming the pet and protecting you from getting bit. Leather gloves, if handy, are another option to protect you from injury."
As you assess the animal, think about how you will move it out of harm's way and to the veterinary hospital. We've all seen how the paramedics strap human trauma patients to a backboard to prevent jarring of the spine, neck, or a fractured limb on the way to the hospital. Before moving an injured animal, take the same precautions. "Fractures are common with traumatic events, so place an injured animal on a board, door, or any solid surface before moving it," says Dr. Raffe. But leave the technical bandaging and splinting of a broken leg to the veterinarian. "The key thing is to make sure neither you nor the animal is further injured in the process of getting to the veterinarian."
If possible, call the veterinarian while you're on your way to give an idea of the time you'll arrive. "Make sure you know how to get there -- and drive safely!" reminds Dr. Raffe. It is a good idea to have a relationship with a veterinarian before an emergency occurs. If your pets don't already have a regular veterinarian, now is a good time to locate one.
Pet first-aid kits are important for all animal households. Besides medical supplies, your kit should contain the name, address, and phone number of your veterinarian for quick reference. Some chapters of The American Red Cross, including the Illini Prairie Chapter at 217-344-2800, offer a class in pet first aid. It is a great idea for all pet owners!
For more information about animal emergencies, contact your local veterinarian. For more information about the University of Illinoise Veterinary Medicine Program or for more helpful articles click here.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
We at TheCompletePet.com are proud to highlight the work of Canine Companions. Below you will find a heartwarming article from Denise Backstrom, as well as some additional information about the non-profit organization.
Puppy Raising in Mississippi
by Denise Backstrom, volunteer puppy raiser
I first learned about Canine Companions for Independence and the puppy raising program in "Smithsonian" magazine. Our own Lab/Golden cross, Mabel, was the inspiration for me to become a puppy raiser. Her intelligence and perceptiveness convinced me that with the right guidance, retriever puppies could become remarkable assistance dogs. We live on a farm and it's a great environment for dogs.
After turning in my first puppy, North, to go on to advanced training, puppy raising was a responsibility I really missed. It's more than a charitable activity. It's a privilege to be involved like this.
Since I am the first and only puppy raiser in Mississippi, puppy socialization has been a novel concept for the general public. I've experienced all the possible reactions, good and bad. After initial skepticism, most businesses have become very hospitable. Inadvertently I think I have educated people and opened some minds about assistance dogs and disability awareness issues.
Faith III, the second Canine Companions for Independence puppy I am currently raising, and I even met a mother and daughter who uses a wheelchair in the mall one day and as a result, they are now in the application process to receive a Canine Companions for Independence assistance dog!
Attending North's graduation at the Northeast Training Center in Farmingdale, NY was overwhelming; maybe the best experience of my life. North had graduated in an assisted-service placement for Abbie, with her mother, Lauren, as the team's "third-party" facilitator. It was unbelievably gratifying to be a part of their success. I am so proud of North and his team!
While raising North, and now with puppy-in-training Faith, I welcome every opportunity to speak to groups about Canine Companions for Independence. I've spoken to Woman's Clubs, the Jaycees, school groups and manned booths at dog shows. It's important to me to let people know what Canine Companions for Independence is about. Perhaps, one more person might find out about the opportunity of new or increased independence through the partnership of one of these truly exceptional dogs for exceptional people.
The puppy raising program provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to help create a meaningful change in someone's life. Born of carefully selected pedigree stock, CCI puppies are reared in private homes until they are 13 to 18 months old. This is a critical stage in the development of a Canine Companion. Puppies need food, shelter, and lots of love and attention to develop into happy, healthy adult dogs. The puppy raisers provide these needs and play an active role in molding young curious pups to become enthusiastic, responsive and confident, ready to meet the challenges of becoming service, hearing or assisted service dogs for future recipients.
Every rewarding hour spent training and playing with a puppy lays the foundation for a stable, dependable, trustworthy companion for a person with a disability. By opening their hearts and homes, puppy raisers create the miracle called Canine Companions for Independence.
Puppy raisers ensure that CCI puppies are socialized and well-mannered. In training classes attended by puppies and puppy raisers, both learn basic canine skills and have an excellent opportunity to make new friends. By being introduced to a variety of people, CCI puppies become steady, reliable and confident in new situations and around strangers. This confidence is essential to the success of every Canine Companion.
Play time is fun time and an important part of the learning process. Many play exercises will enhance a puppy's ability to work later in life. Exercise and play go hand-in-hand and are essential in promoting healthy physical and emotional growth.
Puppies require a certain amount of quiet time. While relaxing with the family, a puppy takes comfort in experiencing the special bond of love and friendship. Quality time spent with the puppy raiser prepares the CCI puppy for its lifelong role as a companion to a person.
Many CCI puppies accompany puppy raisers to work. This accustoms them to various daily routines such as riding in vehicles or waiting quietly and patiently under a desk. Whether it's a short trip to the store, a vacation across country, or even a ride in a little red wagon, each journey prepares the puppy for future travels as a working Canine Companion.
CCI puppies sleep in the bedroom with puppy raisers, either on the floor by the bed or in a special puppy crate. This intensifies the bond a puppy needs to develop toward its human partner and lays the foundation for a close working relationship. CCI puppies are actually training for their future roles while they sleep!
Throughout the year, puppy raisers are invited to show CCI puppies in parades, at fairs, at fundraising events and sometimes even on television. This exposure to unusual and exciting sights, sounds, and smells enables them to work consistently in spite of distractions.
At the end of their commitment, puppy raisers return the dogs to CCI for six months of advanced training. Then, based on each dog's personality and natural abilities, CCI instructors carefully match dogs with prospective recipients during Team Training. Teams learn to work together during this two or three week training course which culminates in a graduation ceremony. At graduation, CCI puppy raisers proudly present the dogs to their new partners, sharing the miracle of their efforts and love.
Graduation marks a new beginning for each graduate and Canine Companion. This special partnership promises the ability to transcend cultural, social, and physical barriers through a relationship of love, respect and benefit. And for the puppy raiser, it means a chance to raise another Canine Companion and create the miracle anew.
For more information about Canine Companions, click here
We would like to thank Canine Companions for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of Canine Companions.
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
"Smelly cat, smelly cat, what are they feeding you?" sings Phoebe, of "Friend's" sitcom fame, in this song about a tangy tabby. "They won't take you to the vet. You're obviously not their favorite pet." But in the humor of the song lies an unfortunate truth: some cats and dogs really smell bad.
"When a cat or a dog smells bad, there may be an underlying problem," says Dr. Allan Paul, Extension veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana. "The first step to having a better-smelling pet is to figure out where the problem lies."
Usually cats are meticulous groomers, so if you notice an odiferous emanation from your feline, it could be the sign of a bigger problem. A cat's aroma can be less than pleasing for many reasons. "The typical things in we see in cats that tend be smelly are oral or gum disease, ear infection, skin problems, and abscesses," says Dr. Paul. "But a bad smell can also indicate a more serious systemic illness."
Cats are particularly prone to abscesses. "If your cat is slightly chunky or has long hair, you might not even notice an abscess until it starts draining," says Dr. Paul. "At that point, if you don't see it, you'll smell it."
Dogs, on the other hand, aren't quite as compulsive in their grooming habits as cats and consequently often just need a bath. "Dogs seem to like to try to disguise their dog smell by rolling in particularly stinky things, such as dead fish," says Dr. Paul. "Apparently they think this fools potential 'prey' animals into thinking they're not a dog at all."
Dogs also often have less-than-desirable snacking habits when allowed to make their own choices. "My dog feasts on horse manure whenever he gets the chance," says Julie, a second-year veterinary student, about her mixed breed dog, George. "It's like a doggie delicacy or something!"
If it is just that your dog has been rolling in something smelly or swimming in smelly water, a good bath should do the trick. Dr. Paul recommends bathing your canine companion with a mild shampoo made for dogs.
Skunks present a particularly stinky problem for dogs and their owners. "If your dog gets 'skunked,' you'll know about it and your neighbors will know about it for several weeks. Every time your dog gets wet, you'll smell skunk," says Dr. Paul. "The best solution is to dilute apple cider vinegar in water and pour it on your dog. Tomato juice works as well. There are also special pet products available to rid your dog of the skunk odor."
Dogs are also well-known for their ability to cause quite a stench of their own. "Both dogs and cats posses anal glands, but they tend to cause more problems in dogs," says Dr. Paul. The anal glands can become clogged and cause discomfort and irritation. Occasionally these sacs full of smelly fluid are emptied in frightful or stressful situations. "The anal sacs have no useful function in the dog," says Dr. Paul. "It is believed that in the past the sacs' contents were used to mark territory. Today it seems their only purpose is to cause problems."
Like cats, bad breath and smelly ears in a dog can be a sign of underlying disease. If you're pretty sure that bad bouquet is coming from your pet's breath or ears, it may mean it's time to visit the veterinarian to get to the root of the problem.
For more information about how to have a pleasant-smelling cat or dog, contact your local veterinarian.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
On weekend mornings in the summer my two dogs and I often awake to a symphony of lawnmowers, weedwhackers, and roto-tillers. People hard at work in their yards and gardens now will soon enjoy delicious tomatoes, beautiful blooming gardens, and deep-green lawns.
Just last weekend my parents came by to help me in my garden. And along with several garden tools, my Dad brought the weed killer. My Mom and I shared a knowing glance. With my two dogs, who begrudgingly share their backyard space with a vegetable garden in summertime, it can be hazardous to use weed killers and fertilizers. Or so I thought. So we used elbow grease instead of herbicides to battle the dandelions.
However, for pet owners who want to spruce up their yards and prefer to use lawn care products, reading the label and using the products properly is the key to keeping pets safe. According to Dr. Petra Volmer, veterinarian and toxicologist at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana, problems usually arise only when people apply lawn care products incorrectly or when a pet is accidentally sprayed or allowed on a freshly sprayed lawn too soon.
Most lawn care products fall into three categories: fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides. "If you use these products correctly and read the label, most really do not cause a problem," says Dr. Volmer. "In general, most residential-use products have low toxicity."
But everybody makes mistakes. According to Dr. Volmer, it isn't unheard of for a person to grab a bottle of herbicide instead of the flea spray and accidentally douse the cat. "With these yard products, any direct exposure can be a problem," says Dr. Volmer. "If you find your pet rolling or walking in a recently sprayed area or spray him by accident, immediately wash the substance off with a mild dish soap, such as Dawn, and contact a veterinarian."
Dr. Volmer notes that insecticides tend to be more toxic to pets than herbicides or fertilizers. "There are a few insecticides for use in the garden, especially those for roses and molluscicides for snails, that can be very toxic. People need to be especially careful with these products around animals."
Your pets will thank you for following instructions and using common sense with lawn care products. So, put your animal in a safe place, away from the area of application. Store all fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides where pets cannot gain access. Keep all products in the original container and make sure the label is intact and readable before using. Then, always read the label and follow directions exactly. And finally, make sure a treated lawn is completely dry after waiting the maximum period recommended on the label. To be extra safe, consider watering down the lawn after application and letting it dry before allowing pets into the area.
If you notice your dog or cat acting strangely, stumbling, salivating, vomiting, or having seizures and especially if you have recently applied a lawn care product, call your veterinarian or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) National Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-4 ANI-HELP) immediately. Don't forget to have the product in hand so you can tell a veterinarian what chemical your pet may have been exposed to.
For the latest information and advice about the pet-friendliness of specific lawn care products and less toxic alternatives, consult your veterinarian or the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Carrie Gustavson
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
"Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore," says Dorothy, in the classic movie. But the gentle twister that carried Dorothy and Toto to Oz doesn't compare to the one that ripped the roof off Dr. Jo Ann Eurell's home in April 1996.
"It was very scary and happened very fast. I came close to losing my life that night," says Dr. Eurell, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana, who huddled in an interior bathroom with her three dogs while the tornado tore through her home.
Dr. Eurell considers herself very lucky. "I was caught unprepared. I had no leashes and no way to handle my dogs once the house was damaged. I'd encourage people to be prepared with a disaster kit and a disaster plan for yourself and your pets," she says.
Coincidentally on the same April date as the 1996 tornado, Champaign-Urbana's sirens rang out the first tornado warning of 2000. For those of us caught unprepared, this storm was a wakeup call to dust off those unused Y2K supplies and add preparations for our animal companions.
Think about how you will move your pet to safety in an emergency situation -- include leashes or crates for your cat or dog and a totebag carrier or sturdy, lightweight container for your bird, ferret, or rabbit. Dr. Eurell recommends keeping food and bottled water in the kit. "In longer term disasters, you need to be prepared with food, water, and medications for your pets."
In addition, a large blanket or thick quilt will help protect you and your pets from dangerous flying glass or other debris in a tornado. Learn how to turn off the gas and electricity in your home, and don't forget to include the proper tools in the kit. Dr. Eurell also suggests a flashlight, weather radio, and cell phone with charger.
Pet owners may also want to include the book Pet First Aid, available through the Red Cross. The Red Cross also offers a first aid/CPR class for animals. Contact your local chapter for more information.
Pets should always wear a collar with the owner's name and phone number. This simple step can dramatically increase the chances that you will be reunited with Fluffy or Fido if you are separated in a disaster. On that note, microchipping may be something to consider for people who lose sleep over just the thought of a lost pet.
Another good idea is to include copies of your dog's and cat's vaccination records. A copy of your driver's license can be helpful in the event your wallet is lost in the confusion.
The next step is to make sure you pick a safe place for you and your pets to wait out a tornado warning -- a basement, crawl space, area under a stairway, or interior room without windows. "If there is a tornado warning and the sirens are blowing, don't wait to see the tornado to get in your shelter," says Dr. Eurell. "Take the warnings seriously. You may just twiddle your thumbs because the tornado goes somewhere else -- it may be wasted time, but it might also save your life and your pets' lives."
Once you are ready for the next tornado, formulate plans for other possible emergencies. "Fire is another potential problem," says Dr. Eurell. "Is the smoke alarm up and running? Does the fire department have a way to know there are pets in the house?" Fire safety stickers let fire crews know what pets might be in your home. They can be a lifesaver for a pet trapped in a fire.
"Authorities will do their best to rescue pets," says Dr. Eurell. But often, people who evacuate without their pets later seek to reenter their dwellings to retrieve animals left behind.
"It can be a very unsafe situation for someone to cross police lines to rescue a pet. If you are unable to take your pets with you, don't go back in on your own," says Dr. Eurell. "The police, fire, and emergency personnel are there to make sure the gas lines are off and dwellings are safe to enter. Once the area is determined to be safe, they will allow access to the property."
If you travel to or live in other areas of the country, also consider emergency plans in the event of a hurricane, flood, mudslide, or earthquake. "It is one of those things you don't want to think about, but it's a good idea to have a plan in place for you and your pets," says Dr. Eurell.
A significant obstacle that people with animal companions face in disaster situations is the inability of disaster relief shelters to accommodate people with pets. "That was a dilemma for me after the tornado," says Dr. Eurell. "I knew my dogs couldn't go to the Red Cross shelter. But I felt it was important to go there to use the phone and register so that my family and friends could find me."
Though it may seem unfair to pet owners, disaster relief shelters have good reason to turn away animals. "Many people are allergic, the animals are highly stressed and may bite, and if they are not particularly well-socialized, they may fight. It is in the best interest of humans that pets are not allowed into shelters," says Dr. Eurell.
To help solve this problem, the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (ISVMA) is developing a plan to help shelter and care for animals in the event of a disaster. "We are working on a plan that will allow animals to be housed in other ways and then be reunited with their owners at the appropriate time, " says Dr. Eurell.
Contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (www.fema.gov), ISVMA, American Red Cross, or your veterinarian for more information on disaster preparedness for yourself and your pets.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Sarah Probst
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
It's true. Dogs age at approximately seven times the rate humans do. So it?s not surprising that Fido should have a physical examination at least every 7 "dog years"?that?s every year in human terms. And as your pet gets middle-aged?that?s over 6 in people years or over 40 in dog years?physicals are recommended twice a year.
"Not only do dogs get older faster than people do, but their diseases progress more quickly, too," says Dr. Kent Davis, community practice veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital in Urbana.
A once-a-year physical gives your veterinarian a chance to sit down and chat with your pet about what's changing in his life. More importantly, yearly physicals let your pet's doctor establish what is normal in Sparky, so he or she will know when something is abnormal.
A yearly physical is good preventive medicine. "Finding and treating diseases in the early stages gives your pet a much better prognosis than discovering a disease already in full swing," says Dr. Davis. Your veterinarian may notice changes in your pet that you haven?t noticed.
During the physical examination, your veterinarian will look for systemic abnormalities. "When I give a physical exam," says Dr. Davis, "I move from the front to the back, starting with the eyes, ears, nose, and throat and moving to the lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. I always check for new lumps or bumps as I move along."
Heartworm tests should also be done at the time of the annual physical. Heartworm is a serious disease, common everywhere mosquitoes live. The physical exam is a good time to keep up to date on vaccines. Dr. Davis also suggests checking whether your pet has worms or other parasites once a year. A simple fecal test can determine whether your de-worming protocol is working.
Between annual examinations, be on the lookout for signs that Sparky is having trouble: not eating, changes in weight, vomiting, coughing, sneezing, elimination problems, or other changes in behavior. Any of these may indicate the need for an extra visit to your veterinarian.
We would like to thank the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana for their generous permission to reprint this article on our web site.
Reprinted with the written permission of U of I
CEPS/Veterinary Extension
2938 Vet. Med. Basic Sciences Bldg.
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802
Phone: 217/333-2907
By Sarah Probst
Information Specialist
University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine
My good friends Matt and Shelly have a fat dog. Bosco went from an ideal 60 pounds to a chunky 80 in only a few months.
Forgetting what they teach us in veterinary school?to first get owners to recogn
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