As dog owners, we all know how important daily walks are for our dogs.  Not just for the daily exercise your dog needs to stay healthy and to maintain a proper weight.  They are also required to help release the natural, anxious energy dogs possess.  

If a dog doesn’t receive their daily release, it most likely will result in ill behavior, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, etc.  

Walks are also required for balanced mental health.  For dogs, the most sensual sense they have is the sense of smell.  Dogs have millions of scent receptors in their noses.  They LIVE to get out and sniff the neighborhood.  Most dogs have no choice but to wait all day, cooped up inside until someone comes to rescue them, and walk them around the neighborhood to let them get their “fix.”  Remember, you have your work, friends, family, hobbies, errands and other things in your life.  All your dog has is you.  They’re home all day just waiting for you to come home and walk them.  

One of the most important things we offer clients is leash training.  In case you haven’t realized by now, dogs need to be taught to walk on a leash.  It isn’t natural for them.  Dogs want to please their owners, so it’s up to you to show them just how you want them to do it.

Pulling is natural for most dogs, because they are being driven by their noses.  Which leads to leash pulling.  It doesn’t matter the size, Great Dane or Yorkie, leash pulling is dangerous.  Small dogs pull and can be difficult to control, which may result in them being stepped on.  Small dogs often have loose collars which slip off easily.  There are many runaway dogs every year because of this.  

When large dogs pull leashes, it becomes even more dangerous.  I’ve seen dogs pull owners down flights of stairs, across busy streets, and even cause serious injury like a torn rotator cuff.  But the WORST is when a dog has a leash pulling habit so great that an owner wants to give up on the dog and find it another home.   

Remember, owning a pet is a LIFE-LONG commitment.  Training + Exercise + Play = A Happy Dog!

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com

 

 

 

 

 

As dog owners, it’s common for us to question if everything that we do is the right thing for our dog.  Especially when it comes to something as important as it’s diet.

We have enough worries trying to figure out the BEST possible food for them.  Particularly if we have a picky eater or a pet who suffers from food allergies. 

One important issue we face is the feeding schedule. 

There are multiple reasons why a feeding schedule is so important for your dog.  Let’s start with the health risks.

First, it’s important for dogs to eat multiple times during the day.  Most common is two times.  Puppies sometimes have their feedings broken up into 3 or 4 times daily due to their metabolism.  You want to avoid feeding only one large meal.  It is believed that dogs who eat one large meal of the day are more at risk of suffering from bloat or torsion.  Both conditions are fatal for dogs who do not receive immediate veterinary attention. 

Scheduled meals are also important because it helps keep track of just how much food is being consumed during the day.  Overweight pets have become an epidemic over the past decade.  More and more pets are being diagnosed with serious health issues such as diabetes, due to years of being overweight.  A life-altering condition which may have been prevented.

Most common with free-feeding pets, the food bowls are being topped off or refilled, but an accurate amount of food isn’t calculated.  

And lastly, scheduled meals plays a vital role in housebreaking your dog.  Dogs are creatures of habit.  They very much enjoy their daily routines.  And a regular feeding routine will most likely result in a daily potty routine.  When your dog eats the same amount of food, at the same time everyday, it will likely develop a regular potty time as well.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com

 

Yes, we all know how cute puppies are.  We see them all over TV in various commercials and in many print ads as well.  And that’s exactly why…  Because they’re just so dang cute!  They can sell anything.  Who can say NO to a puppy?

 

Well, there’s also a lot that comes along with that cute puppy face…  About 2 years worth of extreme patience, training, carpet replacing and costly mistakes of leaving chewable items out where puppies can find them.

If you’re considering adding more love to your home, look no further than a local rescue.  Senior dogs make amazing companions for many reasons.  I’ll go ahead and list a few here.  Please feel free to add any of your own, or any suggestions as well.

 

Senior dogs are usually the ones quickly passed by at the shelter while people are looking for those cute little puppies.  They know that your home may be the last opportunity they have before they cross Rainbow Bridge, and they will be forever grateful.  If you choose to adopt them, you will be saving their life.  And they know that.

While you may spend so much of your patience house-training a puppy, most senior pets are already house-trained and obedience trained.  Therefore, you not only save your home, but you also save yourself an enormous amount of stress in the process. 

You will also know if the dog has any behavior problems.  Shelters and rescues thoroughly screen each dog before sending it home with anyone.  It’s important to make sure the dog is going to it’s “forever” home.  They work hard to make a match of both lifestyle and personalities between dog and potential owner before sending it home with just anyone.  No one wants the dog to be returned and have to start the process all over again.

You will know how big the dog will get.  Therefore you won’t experience any surprise growth spurts and have to pay for costly upgrades like doggie doors, bowls, collars, etc.

NO MORE CHEWING!  Older dogs have already experienced the teething phase.  They won’t chew everything in sight like most puppies.  They know the difference between a toy and your shoes.  Obviously they will need toys to be provided and some kind of exercise, but just less of them compared to what a puppy needs.

Older dogs have a shorter life span.  You may want a dog, but realize that you may not be able to ensure the next 12-15 years worth of care.  A pet is a lifelong commitment.  A senior pet may provide more flexibility because you may only have a few years of the unconditional love they provide.

You’re more likely to know any medical conditions the dog may have.  Inherited conditions of epilepsy, hip dysplasia, etc., often surface before a dog enters it’s senior years.

Older dogs have a more relaxed energy level.  They don’t need four walks a day, or an hour run.  Their energy level should match yours.  They’re likely to relax with you, but also be ready to walk when you are.

Lastly, nothing matches the devotion of a dog with a second chance.  They are so grateful for the opportunity you give them.  If you choose to adopt a senior pet, be prepared for the unconditional love and devotion you’ll receive.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As with any behavior issue your dog may have, IF you don’t first understand WHY it is happening, you won’t be able to fix it.

One common problem dog parents have is being greeted by their peeing dog.  Yes, this is very common because dogs may do this for many different reasons.  Sadly, this is also a very common reason of why dogs are surrendered to shelters.  Many dog owners do not understand why this happens, lose patience, and decide that instead of working to correct it, they give up and take the pup to the pound.  Yes, the pound…  A.K.A. “doggie death row.”

This is NOT a crime punishable by death.  As with any troubled dog behavior, this requires an understanding, some consistency and a lot patience to fix.  But it’s worth it.  Not just to spare a dog’s life, but a pet is a lifelong commitment.  A dog will dedicate their life to providing you with unconditional love.  And there is nothing quite like it.

Most common:  Excitement Urination and Submissive Urination

Excitement urination is the most common.  It happens when your dog is so incredibly excited to see you, that they simply cannot hold it.  Some actually consider this to be an honor.  Who else in your life could be so excited to see you that they instantly pee?

This is usually done by young dogs.  Some simply grow out of this behavior after maturing.  Remember, puppyhood lasts the first 2 years of a dogs life.  This is one of the many challenges of raising a puppy instead of adopting an older dog from a shelter or rescue.

What to do:

• Try greeting your dog outside if possible.  The cleanup will be easier.
• Make sure you set your dog up for success by keeping their bladder as empty as possible.  Start taking them outside to pee every hour.  Reward them with a small treat EVERY TIME they pee.  They will become so excited to receive praise and treats from you, they should learn to focus on doing that every time.
• Try a more relaxed method of greeting your dog.  Most dogs will reflect your energy level.  When you are excited to see them, they will be excited as well.  Instead, try ignoring them when they are overly excited and rewarding them when they are calm and relaxed.  Remember to keep your composure.
• Keep them tired!  A tired dog is a happy dog.  There is no disputing this fact.  Use extra walks, hikes, swimming, or high energy games like fetch or frisbee to use up the naturally anxious energy that dogs have.  Hire a professional dog walker to tire your dog out during the middle of the day, so that your pup will be tired and relaxed when you come home from work.

Remember to NEVER PUNISH YOUR DOG for this mistake.  If you become angry, your dog may become fearful.  This may cause permanent damage and could only make things worse.

Submissive Urination is common in young dogs more than older ones, also more common in females than males.  This condition is more prevalent in specific breeds like Dachshunds, Spaniels and Golden Retrievers.  Urination may not be the only sign.  A dog who pees submissively may also show signs such as lowered body posture, rolling over, licking, looking away or flattened ears.

Submissive behavior may be triggered by many things.  Some triggers include loud, deep voices, fast movement, direct eye contact, standing or bending over the dog or patting the dog on the head.

Try greeting the dog with a sideways kneel, averted eyes, with treats, and with a soft rubbing/gentle scratching of their chest or chin.  The two places dogs love to be petted the most: Chest and Chin.

Things you can do:

• Try greeting the dog outside if possible.
• Keep greetings calm.  Speak in a slow, soft voice.  Also remember to stay low to the ground.  Towering over them can be intimidating.
• Practice consistency!  If there are other people living in the home, or friends, neighbors or relatives who visit, EVERYONE must participate in the same behavior.
• Take them out for hourly pee sessions (as mentioned above).
• Sideways kneel greeting with no eye contact where he/she comes to you.  Limit your attention and let them sniff/greet you.
• Try offering a treat while holding it up in the air.  Make sure that you are sitting on the floor or ground.  The goal is for the dog to increase it’s body height by jumping or stretching higher than you are.  This may help to instill confidence.

If an accident does happen, invite them outside to finish and reward them with a treat.  Then clean up the mess inside.  If you can’t handle cleaning up a little pee, you most likely should not own a pet.

Check into learning some confidence-building games for your dog to play.  There are many out there.  This should help with other behavior issues as well.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com

 

 

 

Reblogged from Dog Walking | Pet Sitting | Scottsdale, AZ:

• 

It can be tough to toss out our dog‘s favorite toy.  We know how much they love them.

But waiting too long to get rid of that old toy can actually be dangerous.

Here are some guidelines for when it may be time to upgrade:

If a plush toy has holes in it, exposing the stuffing, it’s time to go.  

Read more… 230 more words

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It can be tough to toss out our dog‘s favorite toy.  We know how much they love them.

But waiting too long to get rid of that old toy can actually be dangerous.

Here are some guidelines for when it may be time to upgrade:

If a plush toy has holes in it, exposing the stuffing, it’s time to go.  The stuffing itself can be very dangerous if ingested.  Most stuffed toys come with a warning explaining that supervision is required while the dog plays with the toy, specifically because of the potential danger of ingested stuffing.

Rope toys are popular with dogs who are considered “chewers.”  When the rope starts to unravel, and loose strings are exposed, it’s time for it to go.  Much like the stuffing from plush toys, the strings can be dangerous if ingested.

If your dog has chewed off any bits of plastic, you should consider getting rid of the toy.  The plastic pieces may cause danger if ingested.  Also, plastic pieces have been known to become stuck between the dog’s teeth, causing sharp pain, soreness, and even infection.

Any fabric or soft toy that has been chewed or torn to the point where a squeaker is exposed should be tossed into the trash.  The squeakers are a potential choking hazard.

Toys with deep scratches or bite marks need to be addressed.  Moisture is typically trapped in the scratches which become a breeding ground for bacteria.  The life of these toys may be extended briefly by regular washing or even through a regular cycle in the dishwasher, but ultimately should be discarded.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC
Scottsdale, AZ
AbsolutePetCareAZ.com

We will be participating in the 3rd annual Dogathon event on Saturday, March 3rd, 2012.

This event will be held in the heart of our service area in Old Town Scottsdale, at the Waterfront from NOON to 5pm.

The admission is FREE, so bring your pups to enjoy many of the activities!  

There will be:

Charity Parade

Raffle + Auction (various prizes available, including an iPad)

Look-a-like contest

DOGA

Dog Art

DOG ADOPTIONS (my favorite)

Food Trucks

And much more…

The best part…  Absolute Pet Care will be there to mingle with dog owners, share tips on nutrition, behavior, leash training, and everything else pet related.

And of course, we will have plenty of gift certificates to raffle off (you do not have to be present to win), and plenty of giveaways as well.

This is very important to us because Old Town Scottsdale is the heart of our service area.  If you reside here, we can schedule a registration appointment and instantly save you $25.  

See you there! 

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC

Scottsdale, AZ

http://www.absolutepetcareaz.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you ever returned home with that fun-looking new dog toy, only to be disappointed that your pup wanted nothing to do with it?

For most of us “dog parents” this can be quite common.  Choosing the right toy can seem like a daunting task.  I myself have spent hours upon hours picking out toys for my kids.  I always check to see if it is durable, flexible, chewable, and if it can bounce correctly, etc.   My kids can be picky.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Well, after years of going through this painful process (and wasting plenty of money as well), I finally stumbled upon a tip which has yet to fail me.

Think about this…  What is the most important thing in your dog’s life?  YOU!

What is the most stimulating to a dog?  Their sense of smell!

Most dogs prefer things which smell like their owners.  For example, notice how they always seem to find comfort in your bed, or with your worn clothing.  This can also be applied to their toys and other interests.

The trick is this…  When you buy new toys for your dog, remove all of the packaging, tags, whatever may be attached.  Then, place them in your clothes hamper or wherever you keep your dirty laundry.  Leave them there for a minimum of 24 hours.  This will help rid them of the packaged scent and transfer your scent to them as well.

When it is time to introduce the toys to your dog, make sure it is a happy time when they are excited, and you have the time to play with them.  They should enjoy seeing your excitement over the new toys as well.  Your interest in the toys is very important.  Your dog loves you and wants to share your interests.

If any additional help is needed, you can always try rubbing treats against them, placing treats on or inside them, or smearing them with a little peanut butter.

Hope this helps.  Please feel free to add your feedback, suggestions, tips, etc.

Thanks for caring!

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC

Scottsdale, AZ

http://www.absolutepetcareaz.com/

 

KNOW YOUR PET

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the case of any emergency, all pet owners should have a working knowledge of pet first aid.

I know first hand the experience of saving my own dog from choking.  I couldn’t imagine how panicked and helpless I would have felt if I hadn’t had my training in pet  first aid.

Pets are like children.  Both can often get into trouble (especially the young ones).  But unlike children, most pets spend quite a bit of time unsupervised.  It can be difficult to keep your eyes on your pup at all times.  My career as a pet sitter has provided a wealth of experience in the pet world.  Most of the pets I regularly work with, and especially my own, have me constantly thinking two steps ahead.  I know them very well.  I know their behaviors, tendencies, the way they think, and the trouble some of them love to get into.  This helps to be aware, and that is the very first step in preventing an emergency…

It’s important to know and recognize what is normal for your dog.  Know how he/she usually sleeps, eats, walks, urinates, defecates, etc.  Know what is normal, so you will be able to recognize what isn’t normal.  Especially when you need to take them into the vet office.  The vet’s job is to diagnose and treat your pet.  They aren’t simply magical healers (even though I know a few who seem like it).  Any information you can provide for your veterinarian may be helpful, especially in an emergency.

Check the gums

The gums can tell you quite a bit actually.  Healthy gums are moist and pink.  Lift your dog’s lips (technically a muzzle), and press lightly against the gum area with your finger.  It should return to a pink color within a second or two.  If the gum area is white, pale or blue, that is typically an indication of a problem and you should consider an emergency trip to the vet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Choking

If your dog is choking and is unconscious, approach cautiously to avoid being bitten.  Open their mouth sweep the inside with your finger to dislodge the object.  Pull the tongue forward.  If the object doesn’t dislodge, you may need to attempt abdominal thrusts.

 

 

 

 

Look for more pet first aid tips coming in the next post.  Feel free to ask any questions and I hope to get those answered for you.

Remember, you should always consult a veterinarian with all health concerns regarding your pets.

Thanks,

Tim Heise
- Certified Pet Care Specialist
Absolute Pet Care, LLC

Scottsdale, AZ

http://www.absolutepetcareaz.com/