Archive for January, 2009

Usa Dog Parks

If you are traveling with your canine companion, Dog Parks are a great stop so that you and your beloved 4 legged friend can take a break from the road or motel room and enjoy some physical activity. Perhaps you are not at that juncture in your travel plans and you are looking for places that would be of interest to you and your dog, then consider stopping at a local dog park in a city that you are visiting or may be driving through. Some of the most wonderful dog parks are found across the United States and perhaps you may live close to one of the few that will be mentioned in this article about Dog Parks in the USA! You will also want to be sure to check out these cool dresses for dogs for your dog right now! You will not be able to go to the park without one.

The first dog park is the Robert L.Nelson Dog Park that focuses not just on your dog but you as well. This unique dog park is located in Goshen, Indiana. Located in the northern part of Indiana, you will find at Robert L.Nelson Dog Park a huge pavilion with an A Line roof that offers shelter from the heat as well as rain and other weather elements. You will also find a very comfortable setting with plenty of comfy chairs and tables for you to relax while your dog plays safely outside in a fenced in area. The Robert L.Nelson Dog park is a must for the weary traveler and their dog! The address for the Robert L. Nelson Dog Park is: 60376 C.R. 13, Goshen, Ind. Be sure to take a look at these dog pajamas they are great for your dog and they will appreciate it!

Friends Forever Dog Park is well known for it’s agility exercised themed dog park. This special dog park is going to provide your canine athlete a comprehensive amenities to stimulate their physical and mental abilities. The Friends Forever Dog Park stretches over 9 acres of beautiful landscape in northern Illinois that provides dog pools for hot summer weather as well as agility equipment and exercise platforms. These platforms and exercise equipment is for the dog who thrives on challenging and vigorous play. We are talking state of the art dog platforms, dog walks, dog jumps, weave poles, and A Frame. What you and your canine sportster are going to find at Friends Forever Dog Park is the ultimate in Agility and fun that is sure to make the rest of your trip enjoyable! This fabulous dog park is located at: 966 Rudy Road, Freeport, ILL. Be sure that you pick up some of these dog t shirts for your dog right now! Your dog will truly love it.

Found in the BlueGrass State of Kentucky, is Kenton Paw Park. Kenton is a step above the rest when it comes to an awesome dog park! Not only is it located in some of God’s most beautiful territory but it is a learning mecca of all things a good owner should know about the care of their canine! Kenton Paw Park provides lots of workshops and activities for you as well as your dog. When visiting Kenton Paw Park, be prepared to leave not only with a happy exercised dog but with more knowledge than you might of had before! The workshops and training classes are centered around the socialization of your pet. In addition to all the wealth of knowledge at Kenton Paw Park there are dinners and pool parties that the park hosts by local veterinarians and qualified trainers as well as calendar year round training workshops and activities. Kenton Paw Park is a great way to spend a day or afternoon. You can find Kenton Paw Park at 3950 Madison Pike, Covington, Ky.

Saturday, January 31st, 2009 Basic Information No Comments

How To Properly Socialize Your Bird Dog Puppy

Socializing is a necessary part of owning a puppy. Puppies who don’t receive proper social training can bite out of fear. Here are some helpful hints for properly socializing your hunting dog puppy.

Puppy School
You might want to consider enrolling your puppy in a training class. Here not only will your puppy learn to socialize, but you’ll also learn simple commands such as ‘sit, stay and quiet’ which will help you keep better control of your dog. Often you can find these types of classes at a pet store, but you can also shop online for an appropriate class for your dog.

A word of caution: keep shy puppies away from group training classes, as this can overwhelm. If your dog exhibits shy behvarior, like hiding from people or things, you should help him gain trust and confidence before starting on any dog training exercises.

Dealing with a Shy Dog
ogs are so shy that they are actual afraid. If this is the case with your puppy, don’t force him to accept your petting because this can heighten his anxiety and cause him to bite out of fear. Instead, help him cope and develop by training with a greeting circle.

Invite a few of your friends to help you out and make sure you have a supply of your puppies favorite treats. Ask everyone to join you sitting in a circle on the floor and put your puppy next to you (if he’s very shy) or right in the middle of the circle. You want to make sure that your dog doesn’t feel threatened in any way, so one way to do that is to have everyone sitting sideways and facing another person versus a position that might be more threatening to the dog (i.e. sitting staring at the puppy). Make sure that you don’t frighten your puppy by leaning over them as they might see this as an attempt at domination. Avoiding direct eye contact and sudden movements will also help your puppy be more comfortable.

With a treat in each person’s fist, have every person put their closed fist into the greeting circle. Taking turns, each person will open their hand and entice the puppy to claim his treat. In a friendly and upbeat manner, have each person say his name, baby him, and make pleasant noises to bring the puppy to them. When the puppy finally gets to the treat, make sure that the puppy is praised for his good behavior. You shouldn’t try to pet him until he’s less shy and more trusting.

Go around the circle. Have each person encourage puppy to take the treat. Make it easy for your puppy. When he learns the game and is voluntarily walking up to the next hand, you can change it up a bit by changing direction or having people call him at random.

Typically before you know it your will be going voluntarily to each person looking for his ‘treat’. At this point you might want to consider introducing another dog into your circle to see if your puppy will still stay engaged.

The Play Date
The best way to introduce you dog is through play dates. He’ll have the chance to play with other dogs and meet people, which will help him open up. Make his first play date fun, and reinforce with positivity and praise. But watch carefully because a meeting with an unfriendly dog can leave an impact on the puppy.

Be sure to set up play dates with familiar and trustworthy dogs. For instance, if your friend has an adult Labrador who loves everyone and everything, you should try and setting up a playtime with him.

Another option is to see if your local pet stores have play times that they open to the public – if they do they are typically offered at no cost. One thing to watch for is if your pup seems to be afraid or if he’s being bullied by another dog, remove him from the area right away so he’s not discouraged.

Taking your dog with you as frequently as possible when you go out can help familiarize him with smells, sounds and even people and other pets. Be sure if you’re doing this that you take treats with you and reward your dog with both verbal praise and treats when he is friendly towards people or other animals. Some pet shops open their doors happily to your pet and this can be a great place for him to explore at his pace and get familiar with people and other animals.
When strangers ask to pet your puppy, let them know that your puppy is “in training”. Hand them a treat to give to your puppy.

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Friday, January 30th, 2009 Basic Information No Comments

Dog Parks In The Usa

Dog Parks have been around for quite some time and are wonderful places of beauty and enjoyment for you and your dog. These places are equipped with large areas and even come with some ammenities for both relaxation and physical activity that appeals for all breeds and sizes of dogs. There are atleast one Dog Park in most major cities across the nation. However, this trend is branching out to even smaller communities to acommidate local dog lovers. Below are listed the very best Dog Parks voted for their excellent layouts and wonderful advantages for all dogs! Before you go to the dog park you will want to check out some bargain dog clothes that you can pick up before you go to the park, so your styling. You can view a nice sweater dog polo and maybe even some dog long johns for a great nights sleep.

For your small dog, The Bear Dog Park located in Roseville,California was voted the best Dog Park for small breed dogs. This unique Dog Park has a special enclosed area that is just for small dogs. The entire space measures almost 1 acre of land that has a walking trail around the perimeter. There is even lighting fixtures and doggie showers for nighttime fun. The address for Bear Dog Park is 1575 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Roseville, CA. This dog park definately caters to your small little guy or gal!

From just outside Columbus, Ohio, Alum Creek Dog Park has the best man made beach for dogs! You and your dog do not have to get in the car and travel to the seaside to enjoy the beach at Alum Creek Dog Park! This beach covers 4 acres of land that is adjacent to Alum Creek State Park’s resevoir. The beach was designed for dogs who love the water but is great for any dog with it’s calm, relaxing, and serene atmosphere. Alum Creek Dog Park features rolling hills and a beautiful forest that is going to provide many activities for your dog! The real attraction is the beach with it’s rock bed edge and cool inviting water that is a hit with dogs everywhere! The address for Alum Creek Dog Park is 3615 S. Old State Road, Lewis Center, Ohio.

Alongside the beautiful waters of Lake Washington lies the Warren G. Magnuson Dog Park. Located in Seattle,Washington this dog park is really a specially thought out place. Seattle is known for it’s rainy and wet weather and the Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park was designed to accomidate Seattle’s wet weather! Plenty of free open areas dot the landscape but what makes it adaptable for the weather is the winding trails and awesome footpaths that are constructed with highly compact gravel that keeps trails from becoming muddy in rainy weather.An added bonus is that all the trails are wheelchair accessible! The Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park is absolutely a wonderful day trip for your canine and offers a natural setting for them to exercise and to further bond with your pet! The Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park is located at 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA.

These are just a few of the great places to enjoy with your beloved 4 legged friend and hopefully will inspire you to visit either of these or visit the one nearest to you!

Thursday, January 29th, 2009 Basic Information No Comments

Your Dog And Children - Find The Out How To Really Take Care Of Your Dogs And Give The Best Dog Supplies Fast And Easy

When you have a dog going on a holiday might be more complicated than usual. This is because most of the times you will not have the accommodation to take your dog along with you. As such you have only two options when you take a holiday. One is to take your dog along with you on your holiday and the other is to leave your dog behind under the care of some one else. There are many hotels and resorts around the world today that accommodate for pets.

Start your dog off right, give him or her what they deserve, put a smile on their face with the best Dog Supplies that is available at Doggy Dog Supplies. You will find Dog Clothes and Dog Beds that are the best designs and best looking on the internet.

You can make a list of such resorts and visit them. These places you can take your dog along with you. If you have a relative staying somewhere that you are holidaying in then perhaps you can them if you could perhaps stay over at their house for the holidays and also ask them if they would mind bringing along your dog. Travelling with your dog is simpler when you are travelling by road. If you are going to your beach house or farm house to holiday then it is not a problem for you at all to accommodate your dog for the holidays. Also you should make sure that you have all you need that will help you to take care of your dog while you are traveling. This includes a sufficient supply of pet food etc.

If you are leaving your dog behind then make sure that you have made appropriate arrangements for your dog that you are leaving behind. Make sure that you are leaving your dog with a reliable or a trusted person. It is always better to leave your dog behind with a person that your dog is familiar with. This will help your dog to get along well with the person. The person who is taking care of your dog should know how to handle your dog properly. He should take your dog for regular walks and tend to your dog’s needs. You should leave a bag of dog food with the person who is taking care of your dog. If the person already has a dog then it is most ideal as he or she will already know how to handle your dog properly. Always ask to make sure that the person has absolutely no problem in taking care of your dog. Do not impose your dog on people but give it to people who would love to take in your dog.

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009 Dog Training Products No Comments

Down-to-earth Advice For Dog Obedience Training

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. Isn’t it looking great, it can be happen with Top Dog Training Guide

Obedience training should be fun and rewarding for you and your dog. It can enrich your relationship and make living together more enjoyable. A well-trained dog is more confident and can more safely be allowed a greater amount of freedom than an untrained one. A trained dog will come when called.

Some people debate whether or not it is possible to train puppies, and others ask whether it is possible to teach an old dog new tricks. The answer to both questions is an unequivocal YES. Whatever the age of your dog, the right time to begin training is right now! The most important time in your dog’s life is right now. Your dog’s behavior is constantly changing. A dog that is well-behaved today will not necessarily remain that way forever. New problems can always develop. Existing problems can always get worse.

Enroll in a local dog obedience training class to learn the basics. Then most teaching and training can and should be done in your home. It is best to begin training in an area that is familiar to your dog and with the least amount of distractions as possible. When you feel both you and your dog are skilled at several obedience commands, then take these commands to different areas. Introducing distractions may seem like starting all over again, but it’s worth the effort. In reality, who cares if your dog will sit stay when no one is around? What you need is a dog who will sit-stay when company is at the door. Who cares if your dog heels beautifully in your own back yard? But you need to start there if you eventually want a dog who will heel beautifully when walking down Union Street.

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? If you agree with this article then train your dog with the help of directory dog training

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

Tuesday, January 27th, 2009 Train You Dog No Comments

Keep Your Hunting Dog Safe In The Field With A First Aid Kit

Every hunter who goes out into the field with his dog should carry a first aid kit: both for himself and one for his dog. You never know when something will happen and being prepared is likely to decide whether the injury is taken care of or becomes a real issue. There are plenty of good first aid kits gun dogs you can buy.

While there are many options to purchase a canine first aid kit, it’s up to you to make sure that it’s ‘up to par’ and sufficient to take care of your dogs needs whether you are at home or out hunting. It may be tempting to wrap a dogs wound in whatever happens to be available (a torn shirt, handkerchief, etc) but having a properly sanitary dressing could make a difference between a wound that heals properly and one that can become infected and potentially debilitating. Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish when it comes to preparing your first aid kit for you dog.

Here is what to look for in a good gun dogs first aid kit:

A First Aid Guide
The first aid guide will show you basic first aid for dogs for both small injuries (like wound treatment for scraps) and life-threatening injuries (like mouth-to-snout resuscitation). There should be clear instructions for the use of all items contained within the first aid kit, as well. To be best prepared for emergencies, you should read the first aid guide and learn the basics before emergencies happen. The keyword here is “emergencies” — first aid is not the replacement for regular veterinary visits.

Don’t Forget The Tweezers
This is a very helpful tool for removing splinters, ticks, and more. Splinters can go into the pad of a dog’s foot or elsewhere and work its way deeper and cause discomfort, and worse, abscesses. It’s best to treat them right away before they are forgotten and enters further in, causing infections that can spread to other parts of the body.

Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide typically costs less than $1 per bottle and is a must have for any first aid kit (human or canine). It provides for sterilization, wound cleaning and can even help you deal with the area of a splinter before and after you are done removing it.

Iodine
Iodine is even better than peroxide for cleaning a wound before dressing it with gauze or bandages. The best course of action is to use the peroxide, then the iodine, to promote quicker healing of your dog’s wounds.

Antibiotic Ointment
These are off-the-shelf ointments that can be used to help with bee or wasp stings, abrasions, or other small injuries.

Eyewash
Like their adult companions, dogs often get things in their eyes that no amount of trying will dislodge. You can find a simple saline solution that can be safely used to wash out your dogs’ eyes and in some cases, even prevent issues with their vision. Just spray some into the dogs’ eye and as a rule of thumb the rest will take care of itself.

Trauma Pad
In the event of serious injury where the blood flow is severe, a trauma pad will help stop the flow of blood, seal the wound, and provide you with a great tool for transporting your dog to an emergency vet. Because trauma pads for dogs come in different sizes, make sure the size is right for your dog.

Gauze, Tape, and Scissors
Simple, basic, and self-explanatory, these tools are indispensable for your dog’s injuries. It’s useful for cuts and scratches. To properly treat these minor injuries, bandage and gauze the area, then tape it to protect the area from further damage.

Don’t risk your dog’s happiness with being out on a hunting trip with you by being unprepared for an emergency. A good first aid kit is a helpful tool whether you’re out hunting or at home. There is nothing that you can do more easily for your dogs’ safety than have a good first aid kit.

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Monday, January 26th, 2009 Health Issues and Advice No Comments

Keeping Your Puppy Safe When Outside

Just like any good parent, when your children go outside to play you want them to be as safe as possible. It is no different when you are a responsible pet owner of a puppy! You will definitely need to pick up some dog supplies for your new puppy.

There are many hidden dangers that you may or may not be aware of that could really hurt or even pose grave dangers for your pup! Your puppy has no sense of what safety is. However, you can do a few simple things to ensure that your puppy is safe when outside.

One of the first things to look out for is water areas. It is true that every dog can swim, but young pups need some training. There are cases every year of dogs that drown because they got into water that was too much for them. In one story, while on a hiking trek, a man and his new German Shepherd puppy along. When he approached a lake, the pup was so excited that he took off into the lake. The pup did not automatically swim, actually the puppy became overwhelmed by how large a body of water such as this lake.

The puppy would have drown had the man and his friend not gotten to the German Shepherd puppy in the nick of time! Again, all dogs can swim but puppies cannot swim well enough to take on such large bodies of water such as lakes, streams, rivers, etc. So make sure that your puppy stays on their leash when you are approaching water areas. It is always better safe than sorry! Another danger to your puppy can be insects!

Im talking about bugs! Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other common insects can be real trouble for puppies. These bloodsuckers can pose a real threat to your puppy because they carry disease not to mention can cause skin irritations and in some puppies, allergic reactions. So make sure just as with yourself and loved ones, that your puppy has more than ample protection against insects. Be sure that you take a quick look at dog dresses and dog shampoo.

There are many great products that give round the clock protection against fleas and ticks in addition to a variety of products that will ward off other bloodsucking pests! These medications may come in the form of a pill, spray, lotion or cream, and powders. There are also many holistic products that are all natural and do not contain chemical repellents that have had success when used correctly. A good rule of thumb is that you use these repellents during the early morning and at dusk because that is when mosquitoes are at their most prevailant.

You can also avoid marshy and heavily wooded areas as well that will reduce the chances of your pup being eaten alive by mosquitoes.

Monday, January 26th, 2009 Health Issues and Advice No Comments

Dogs Must Be Taught To Not Bite: Understand Dog Behavior

Most people have seen the signs of aggressive dogs like bared teeth, growling, and biting, yet often people do not understand the reasons for aggressive behavior in dogs. Getting a good grasp of the underlying reasons for this aggressive behavior is the first step to learning to curb them in your own dog. A well-behaved dog is often a happier dog, so getting the root of aggressive behavior in dogs is important to you as well as your dog.Do you have a dog? If yes, then surely you need help to cope up your problems relating with you canine. click here a complete training manual-dog training

Dominance

If the dog is biting to show dominance try the following methods:

* When considering taking in a dog, choose carefully. A veterinarian is usually the best source of info regarding pet behavior and suitability. Additionally, avoid “puppy farms” and go for a trusted breeder. He or she should be able to give you detailed information about the dog’s background, and whether it’s susceptible to violence or dominance.

* Train the dog to obey basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave. Incorporate the training activity within fun games that aren’t too aggressive. Avoid playing games that encourage aggression, such as tug of war and wrestling.

* It’s a fact - neutered dogs are less likely to attack or bite. Consider getting your furry best friend spayed or neutered. This is actually safer for the dog, as he will be less prone not only to attack, but also to chase cars and trucks on the street.

* See to it that the dog is properly socialized. If you’re getting a puppy, make sure he’s used to being aorund other dogs and vistors (as well as cats, if you have one). This will put him at ease around different types of people, animals and situations, and prevent biting problems later in life. Only spend a few minutes around other animals and people at first, gradually increasing the exposure more and more.

* Like any good dog owner, you have to get to know your dog really well. Stay alert for any signs of sickness or injury. Know his temperament: is the dog easily scared by your body language, or bold and standoffish? Even the most placid of dogs can react violently if they are approached while in pain or illness. Your well-meaning interference may only be seen as a threat to a confused and fearful dog.

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Sunday, January 25th, 2009 Train You Dog No Comments

Traveling With Your Dog In A Car - Also You Can Find Your Dog The Best Dog Supplies Available To Show Him/her You Care

The open road is a delight to man and his best friend. Right? This can be the case, but you may have to do a little ground work before you speed off into the sunset. Dogs, like humans, may get carsick. And like us, they also need to learn car etiquette. Here are tips to ensure a drama-free road trip.

If you have a puppy, it’s best to consider the car a training ground. To begin, invite your puppy into the car. Enforce the sit and stay rule and remain calm. Award them a treat if they follow your directions. Quick Note: You should always think about how you can get your dog his or her Small Dog Supplies every day. Also if you are looking for your dog his or her own stylish Dog Clothes and Dog Coats then you should check out Doggy Dog Supplies. After practicing this a few times, crank the car and drive down the driveway. Remember to reinforce the sit and stay rule. After you feel confident that all is well, you and your dog can drive around the block. Don’t go too far on the first drive. After all, your pup may be prone to car sickness.

Once on the open road, remember to concentrate, first and foremost, on the traffic. Do not allow your dog to sit in your lap or climb at will around the car. And, they should not get anywhere near the gas or break petals. On your first drives, you may notice excess salivation ending in throw up. If this happens, remain calm and, if at all possible, head home. Chances are, your pup may grow out of this phase. If not, see your vet for a mild, safe sedative.

A calm dog who teats the car seat as he does his bed is idea. But, not all dogs can handle the excitement. If your dog can’t stop jumping all over the car, pawing at the windows, and generally going berserk, it may be a good idea to crate him or restrain him via a dog seatbelt. If your dog is already crate trained, they should have no problem riding in their crate. If they’re not crate trained but need to be crated on car trips, introduce them to the crate slowly and with lots of calm praise. Make sure it’s a soft and alluring place, a place where treats and toys are readily available. If you and your dog prefer the idea of a seatbelt, there are many available on the market. Check with your vet to find one that is appropriate.

Remember, the number one rule in traveling with a pet is safety. You must stay focused on the road; this is why it’s so important to train and/or restrain your dog when traveling.

Sunday, January 25th, 2009 Health Issues and Advice No Comments

Whelping A Litter Of Bird Dog Puppies

Whelping is a term used to refer to the birth process of canines, when the female gun dog gives birth to a litter of puppies. Most female gun dogs (bitches) will go through this process naturally, with little help needed from you or a veterinarian. Occasionally, though, some help is needed and if you understand the process and what is expected at each stage of whelping, you’ll be prepared to give aid when it is needed.When you have a pregnant gun dog and she is about to give birth, this process is called “whelping”. In most cases, the mother dog will know how to do this alone, but in some cases help may be needed by you or a vet. If you are thinking about breeding dogs, and having the mother deliver them at home, then you should really become familiar with whelping and all that goes into to it.

A bitch will be pregnant for about 58 to 68 days. Towards the end of this gestation period, at about the fifty-eighth day, you’ll want to start watching for signs of labor. Take the dog’s temperature regularly and watch for a sudden drop to about 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit as this is an indication that she will begin whelping within the next 24 hours. You can rent or buy a thermometer meant especially for this task from a veterinarian. Use a little lubricant, such as petroleum jelly, to help the process.The gestation period for dogs is 58 to 68 days. As that 58th day approaches you will want to keep a close eye for signs that your pregnant dog is about to go into labor. I typically take my dogs temperature as the days get closer to the expected delivery date and watch carefully for a sudden drop in her temperature. Now dogs typically have a normal temperature of 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit but about 24 hours prior to delivery their temperature will drop by a couple degrees to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating birth is imminent.

Make available a whelping box (any box large enough for her to comfortably stretch in). It can be cardboard, plastic, or wooden. She will naturally begin nesting in that box shortly before the whelping process is to begin. Her instincts are telling her to prepare for the puppies.In order for you dog to feel “prepared” for the whelping process, it is necessary for you to provide some version of a “whelping box” for her. This can be a professionally made one, or something as simple as a cardboard box, which ever she feels more comfortable in. Once the whelping process has begun the mother dog will begin a process called “nesting” which means the dog will take anything available whether it be newspaper, blankets, or towels to prepare a comfortable place for her to give birth.

Don’t hold that 24-hour rule for temperature drop to whelping too fast, however. Often, this temperature drop happens only a few minutes or hours before the event. Nesting and temperature change together are sure indications no matter what, though. Be prepared anytime after her 58th day of pregnancy for her to go into labor at any time. When she does go into labor, she will begin contractions, which will be clearly visible as her muscles from shoulder to tail will contract and release rhythmically and she will likely lie down and find a comfortable place in her whelping box. She will whimper slightly and begin licking herself to prepare for birth.It is always to keep in mind though that when your dog’s temperature drops, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have 24 hours until the puppies are born. It can often happen within only a few hours before labor begins. If your dog begins whelping, and her temperature drops, that is a sure sign that labor will begin very soon. Labor is very easy to spot, she will begin having contractions which will be easily spotted. The muscles from her shoulder to her tail will contract and release over and over again. At this time she will most likely be very restless and try to find a comfortable position.

It’s likely that from here on in, you will only be an observer, watching as the pups emerge one after another. It can take several minutes or even hours. A bitch that has not had puppies before will likely take longer than one who hasn’t, but there is no hard-and-fast rule. If the process takes more than two or three hours, call a veterinarian for advice.Puppies should begin coming out one right after another. This can happen very quickly, or sometimes in a first time mother can take a few hours. If your dog has been in labor for more that two to three hours, you should consider calling your vet, so you know what to look for in case of an emergency.

If more than an hour goes by with her in labor but producing no puppies, help her up and take her for a brief walk around the area or (if the weather is good) in the yard. Do not go further than you can carry her, however, so that if she collapses into birth, you can quickly take her back to her whelping box. Feathering is another technique that can help stimulate birth. Put on a latex glove and lubricate with KY jelly or another non-toxic lubricant and gently insert your finger into her vulva up to the top of her vagina.There are some tips to help your dog along into labor, and should be considered only if she has been in labor for more than one hour and no puppies have come out. One of the suggestions is to get your dog up and allow her to walk around. Just make sure she doesn’t venture too far from the whelping box, so if she begins to go into labor you can easily get her back to the box. The other tips is a technique called feathering. This is when you put on a latex glove and apply some non-toxic lubrication and gently insert your finger into your dog’s vulva and gently rub the top of the vagina, this will help stimulate involuntary uterine contractions.

When the puppies finally do come, they will be preceded by a gush of fluid as her water breaks. After her water has broken, expect a puppy within twenty minutes and more to follow shortly after, one after another. They are usually born head first and the mother will naturally know when to stop. You can “feel” her gut by gently pressing with your fingers to see if more puppies are due to arrive.When a puppy is being born it is accompanied by the water sac, which can either be with in tactic, or ruptured prior to the puppy being fully delivered. The puppy is usually delivered head first.

Once they are born, the mother will likely do all the work caring for the puppies. Make sure that warm, damp rags are ready for wiping down the pups and for gently massaging them to stimulate breathing. Most likely, mother will do this with her tongue as the pups are born, so again, you will likely just watch. Do not pick up or handle the puppies any more than medically necessary during the first few hours so that they can have mom’s full attention. Gentle, shortly-timed handling for the first week or so is recommended while the puppies acclimate and grow.Once the puppies are delivered, mom knows what to do. She will clean them and make sure they are breathing, if this does not happen, you can clean the puppy off yourself and take a clean dry towel and rub the puppy until they begin to cry. This will both clean and get them breathing all in one step. It should however be taken into consideration that handling the puppies more than medically necessary shouldn’t be done within the first week of birth.

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Saturday, January 24th, 2009 Health Issues and Advice No Comments