The Cost of Pet Ownership - Part II

We are fortunate to live in a community that is committed to pet rescue. Some of the tips offered below may not apply in your area. However, check with local shelters and groups. They may have advice for you.

Food

Feeding your pet can be expensive, depending upon your food selection. Check manufacturers’ websites for coupons and rebate offers.

If you are struggling to feed your pet, talk with your local shelter and rescue groups. In our area, we have several groups that have pet food pantries.

Routine Shots and Vet Visits

It is important to find a good vet for your pet. The ideal vet will help you find ways to provide quality care within your budget. Most vets nowadays understand the dire financial circumstances in which some people find themselves.

That being said, if you simply cannot afford a routine vet exam, the minimum you should do is maintain your pet’s vaccination schedule. In our area, local shelters and rescue groups offer low-cost shot clinics.

If you live near a large university that has a veterinary medicine program, check with the university about free or low-cost clinics. It might be an affordable way to get your pet basic exams until you can get back on your feet financially.

A word or two about vaccinations: In recent years, vets are taking a more conservative approach toward vaccinations. You should discuss with your vet whether or not certain vaccines are needed. Your pet may not be in a high risk category. Rabies vaccines must be given on the recommended schedule, though; it is the law.

Spay/Neuter

In our area, we have a special clinic that performs low-cost spay/neuter. For low income families, it is free. Check with your local shelter or humane society about low-cost spay/neuter. You might be surprised to learn that you have affordable options.

Routine Medicines

Flea medicine is essential. Not only do you want to keep these beasts out of your home, they cause lots of problems for your pet. As mentioned in a previous blog, I use the best-quality medicine I can afford. I have found the cheap stuff is not effective. I also do not apply the medicine year-round. You may not be able to do this, depending upon your situation. It is something to consider.

Your vet will recommend heartworm medicine. It can be very expensive, especially if you have multiple and/or larger pets. The treatment for heartworms can be extremely expensive and is tough for your pet.

Let’s be honest here. I balked at the cost for years, thinking the risk was low. I finally came around, though, when my dogs had issues with whipworms. My vet explained that the heartworm medicine also combats other worms. From that day forward, I kept them on heartworm medicine year-round and never had any issues.

One last note: I do not give Kiki and Maddy heartworm medicine. They are strictly indoor cats. The odds are very, very slim that they will come in contact with mosquitoes. Discuss this decision with your vet, though. You may live in an area where the risk is much greater.

Gear

The key here is to shop around and look in unusual places. Here are some places where I have saved money:

Dollar Tree: I found a collapsible food/water bowl there for, yes, $1. It is not super fancy, but it is sturdy enough. It actually holds water better than the Outward Hound version I reviewed in an earlier blog.

Family Dollar: You can find stainless steel pet bowls for around $3 here. I prefer stainless steel because it is more durable and easier to clean than plastic. I worry about chemicals leaching from plastic into the food, but then I tend to obsess about those things.

Tractor Supply: This store carries farm supplies. They also have a decent selection of dog gear. Basic collars and leashes are cheaper here than at PetSmart. Keep that in mind, especially if you have a puppy who will go through several during the first year. If you have this particular chain store or one like it in your area, check it out. You might be surprised at what you find.

Wal-Mart: Their selection of pet toys grows each day. Gracie loves a $3 hedgehog I bought there. I also found other deals on their website. They will ship most products free to a store near you.

Lastly, consider making your own pet beds. If you can sew a rectangular pillow case, you can make a pet bed. I look in remnant bins at fabric and craft stores. For stuffing, you can go super cheap and buy a $7 bag of cedar shavings. (You could fill several beds with one bag.) You can also find use poly stuffing or buy a piece of foam.

As with other expenses in life, you have to do a little work to find the best deals.  They are out there, though.  Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

The Costs of Pet Ownership - Part I

Before you consider adopting a pet, please review your economic situation. That statement may sound cold. It is not meant that way. Pets can be expensive. It would be irresponsible of me to not start the conversation this way. Let’s review some of the costs:

The Initial Purchase

Purchasing a purebred dog or cat from a responsible breeder is expensive. You could easily spend between $500 to $1,000 and more on the pet. If you go this route, I urge you to do the research and adopt from a responsible breeder. Puppy mills are despicable enterprises. Do not support them!

Please consider adopting a rescued pet. Believe it or not, shelters sometimes have purebred pets surrendered to them. Also, many breeds have rescue groups. If your heart is set on a particular breed, check the Internet for a rescue group.

A rescued pet is actually a bargain. At minimum, they have had their first set of shots. They have been spayed or neutered. Some rescue groups even negotiate with local vets to provide one free vet exam.

For example, when I adopted Gracie, she was up to date on all of her shots. She had been dewormed. She was spayed. The shelter implanted a microchip prior to her leaving. Her “welcome” packet included a coupon for a free grooming visit, a DVD on pet training, and coupons for food. They gave me a week’s supply of her current food, so I could transition her to a new food without tummy troubles.

If I had taken her to my vet for the shots, I estimate the cost at around $120. Having her spayed would have been another $300 to $400. Her adoption fee was $85. Let me repeat that - $85.

The Vet Visits

If you adopt a puppy or kitten, the first year is expensive. Both animals usually require at least two visits to the vet. Depending upon rates in your area, that can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 per visit.

Even if you adopt a puppy or kitten from a shelter, you still may need one visit to the vet for a set of booster shots. Also, please spay/neuter your pet, if it was not already altered before you got it.

If you adopt a pet who is more than one year old, he or she may have all of the required shots. A visit to the vet would still be a good idea so that you can double check for any problems.

The Gear

Here is a list of the basic essentials you will need:

Cats:

• Litter box, litter scoop, and kitty litter.
• Collar and tag.
• Two bowls – one for water, one for food
• Food
• Toys (lest your furniture be the toy)

Dogs:

• Collar and leash. Harness would be nice but not totally essential.
• Portable crate and bed
• Two bowls – one for water, one for food
• Toys (lest your shoes, furniture, carpet, et cetera, be the toy)
• Piddle Pads (every pet will have an accident; these work better than newspaper)
• Food

Again, this list only shows the bare necessities. You can easily spend a fortune on your pet.

In the next posting, I will discuss ways to save on all of the above.

Rescue Mommy

The Joys of Pet Ownership

It is 2:30 a.m. A fierce thunderstorm is raging outside. Flashes of lightning illuminate the bedroom. Thunder shakes the windows. Gracie is terrified.

She paces back and forth on the bed, panting and shaking. No matter what we do, nothing consoles her. Finally, she dives under the covers and claws her way to the foot of the bed. Occasionally, she pops out from under the covers and resumes her pacing routine on the bed. This little dance continues for the next hour.

It is 6:30 a.m. Kiki barfs a monstrous hairball near the bed. Gracie clamors to get off the bed, wanting to investigate. After many frantic shouts of “NOOOOO!!!” she desists and settles onto the bed.

It is 7:10 a.m. After an unsettled night’s sleep, I stumble into the living room. Gracie shows me that one of the cats has left a revenge poo-poo near her dog bed. Nice.

I wrestle with Gracie for a few minutes as I try to wiggle her into her harness. We go for our morning walk, which lasts almost an hour today. The storm has apparently washed away the pollen and exposed lots of fascinating smells. Also, Gracie must scold the evil dogs across the way for several minutes. She puffs her chest, snorts, and growls in her best Rottie imitation.

So, I ask you: are you truly ready to become a pet owner? The above is just a small glimpse of what you will experience. Yes, pets enrich our lives and bring so much joy. You also have to deal with the dirty, messy stuff, just as you do in your own life.

If you have a cat, kitty litter will be sprinkled throughout your house like magical fairy dust. Thanks to hairballs, cats barf more than dogs. Projectile vomiting seems to be their favorite way of doing it too. Last weekend, someone decided the living room curtains needed a “stripe.” Will it bother you to find random “presents” throughout your house?

If you have a dog, you must provide her with plenty of exercise and potty breaks. A consistent schedule reduces accidents – and destruction of the household. Are you prepared to stick to that schedule, even after a night I described above?

Pet ownership is a serious commitment. You are responsible for another life. We hardcore pet owners liken it to having children. Are you ready for the responsibility? If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, please review the blog this week.

Also, many pets are being surrendered because their owners can no longer afford them. In this week’s blog, we will discuss the costs and present some ideas that might help you keep your pet.

Please share your thoughts and suggestions after each posting.

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Merry Christmas!!!

We hope you and your family (human and furry) has a safe, happy, and warm Christmas. Snuggle close and enjoy all the joys of the season.


Rescue Mommy & Daddy

The Dog Whisperer - Cesar Millan

Cesar Millan, the self-proclaimed “Dog Whisperer,” has a successful TV show, best-selling books, training DVDs, a magazine, and probably lots of other merchandise in the pipeline. His methods, though, are much maligned by trainers and others in the pet community.

I confess that I own three of his books: Be the Pack Leader, Cesar’s Way, and How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond. I also own a books by other trainers who advocate methods different from Cesar’s. Which method do I prefer? I prefer a mixture of both, actually.

I wholeheartedly agree with his critics that dominance is an archaic theory. The idea that “control” of the animal is achieved by lording over it, demanding submission, lost popularity long ago. In my opinion, our furry friends respond much better to more modern methods that achieve results by using natural instincts and play to teach desired behaviors.

I also disagree with the use of choke and shock collars. It breeds fear and distrust. It is interesting that, in his book Be the Pack Leader, Mr. Millan himself states that these collars are good if used by a proper trainer. The problem, though, is that few people actually do know how to properly use these devices. In the hands of an inexperienced trainer, I fear these tools create a ticking time bomb. Who pays for these training mistakes? The animal.

However, I do like some of his methods. Your pet is first and foremost an animal, not a miniature human. I cringe whenever I see a dog dressed in a tutu and carried around like an accessory. Buy a doll, for crying out loud! Don’t subject that poor animal to such stupidity.

Yes, you should have “rules, boundaries, and limitations.” They establish a structure and security that your furry friend will appreciate.

I find that his “calm assertive energy” theory is very true. To whip Gracie into a frenzied state, all I have to do is bark and howl. Soon, she is growling, barking, and howling. If I race around the room, she will too. Should I be upset that she does this? No, I induced it. I brought the anxious energy into the room.

I also agree that people often need more training than pets. I can read all the books in the world and attend lots of obedience classes. Unless I am committed to putting those techniques into action, it makes no difference.

I do not ascribe to any one training technique. It is my belief that you should educate yourself about lots of different methods, talk to professionals if you can, and develop your own personal plan that works best for your friend. Use love, not force or humiliation. And, most importantly of all, keep an open mind.

Rescue Mommy

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

Starting this week, we will highlight a cat and dog from Brother Wolf Animal Rescue on our new “Adopt Me” page. We hope you or someone you know finds a special friend.

Brother Wolf is based in Asheville, NC. They are the largest no-kill shelter in our area. When they take an animal, it either stays at their shelter or enters a foster home. The animal will never be euthanized.

This year, they have found homes for over 1,800 pets. This phenomenal success comes from the hard work and dedication of the Bitz sisters and their team of shelter staff and volunteers. They also have great support from the pet care community as well as average citizens committed to pet adoption.

We cannot say enough good things about this organization. Please consider adopting your next family friend from a shelter or rescue group like Brother Wolf. If you are interested in learning more about them, please visit their website at bwar.org.

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

Lands' End Squall Snow Pants

OK, the Lands’ End commercial continues.

I had been looking at these pants for weeks. During Black Friday, they had a good sale, so I purchased them. Oh, where have you been all my life?

Lest you think I am a total wimp, I can handle average winter temperatures just fine. I draw the line, though, at 0 to 20 degrees, with 30 mph winds and wind chills below zero. Add a bunch of snow. That is intolerable.

These pants are fantastic. When Rescue Daddy and I were shoveling snow, I was actually hot. Yes, HOT – in 15 degree weather, with driving wind!

The pants are lined with Thinsulate. The exterior fabric is some sort of tight weave material that blocks wind and stays dry in the snow. The pants do not feel that thick, but they really provide a lot of warmth. When I have worn the pants subsequent times, I have not needed thermal underwear underneath.

The waistband features Velcro tabs that allow you to adjust the waistline. This is a great feature because the sizes seem to be a bit big.

While the pants seem like a bit of a splurge, they are cheaper than other ski-type pants I have seen. As I said on Wednesday, when you are freezing outside, you would be willing to pay any price for warmth. Put these pants on your Christmas wish list.

Rescue Mommy

Lands' End Snow Pack Boots

As I mentioned last week, I have been upgrading my winter gear. Last year’s brutal winter was just too much. Unfortunately, this year is not looking all that great either.

I bought these boots two weeks ago. They are fantastic!! On Monday, wind chills were at zero and below. My feet were warm and dry.

The boots have a faux shearling lining from top to bottom. The top of the foot is covered in seemingly waterproof rubber. The upper part of the boot is suede-like.

The boots are a bit heavy. You will need to wear a thick pair of socks because, like most snow boots, the shoe is a bit “generous” in sizing. However, I would highly recommend these boots if you are looking for something to keep your feet toasty.

Yes, they are a bit pricey. Check Lands’ Ends’ site though. They have offered some really great deals lately. Plus, let’s face it. When you are standing in a foot of snow, with 50 mph winds, how much would you pay for warm feet?

Rescue Mommy

Snow Report

We are in the middle of our second storm in a week. Ridiculous!

We lost Internet access Sunday afternoon. Fortunately, we have not lost electricity and hope we will not.

We have at least 8 inches at this point, more in the drifts. Frankly, it is too cold to check. Who wants to stand outside to do it?

We hope you are warm and safe wherever you are!

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

CPR Class for Pets - Yes, Pets

The local chapter of the American Red Cross offers a CPR class for pets. Yes, some family members rolled their eyes when they heard we were taking this class.

It was really interesting. They offered helpful information about preparing a home emergency kit for your pet. We learned how to check our pets’ pulse and administer CPR. It was particularly good to learn what specifically to do with a little dog, since Gracie is much smaller than our previous two dogs.

We received a quick reference book that contains color pictures and diagrams. It also has a DVD that reviews the same techniques and procedures discussed in the class.

If you are interested in learning a little more about caring for your pet, we recommend you check with your local chapter. It is worth a few hours of your time.

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

Motion Sickness in Dogs

Someone asked me recently if I had any recommendations for helping her dog with motion sickness. Here are a few things I have read or heard about over the years:

• Bach’s Rescue Remedy and other homeopathic remedies: I have heard that these homeopathic remedies can be effective. The same remedies you use to alleviate anxiety could help with motion sickness. Ingredients such as ginger and valerian might help.

• Dramamine: Absolutely talk with your vet before administering this medicine. He/she can tell you the correct dosage. Never, ever guess about the dosage.

• A crate: If your pet is secure, it could alleviate anxiety. Plus, let’s be honest. If your dog is in a crate, it restricts the area on which he/she will vomit.

• Cerenia: This drug is AMAZING. It is produced by Pfizer and must be obtained from your vet. It can be a bit pricey and should not be used long term.

I used this drug with Perdy and Dino whenever cancer gave them tummy troubles. It completely stopped vomiting. It is meant specifically for motion sickness but helped them tremendously.

Always discuss any remedy you want to try with your vet before administering.

If you have any suggestions, please post a comment. Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Land's End Down Parka

Whoopie – winter is here! (I say that with great sarcasm.) Last winter was absolutely brutal here. After years of mild winters, we had cold temperatures and snow earlier and longer in the season. The 30-minute, twice daily walks with Gracie made me long for better winter gear.

One purchase I made was a Land’s End down parka. It is fantastic. The cuffs have fleece on the inside, which gives a nice illusion of warmth in frigid temperatures. The fabric is also water resistant. I tested it once again on Saturday when we had pouring rain/sleet/snow.

I mention this because I have spotted some great deals on their website. You might want to whisper a wish for a parka in Santa’s ear. You will love it if you take long walks with your buddy – or are just tired of being cold!

Rescue Mommy

Upgrades Coming

Thanks to everyone who has visited our website.  We have had a lot of hits lately.

We have been working on more upgrades for our website.  You may notice that we added a page for archived Photos of the Week.  We hope you enjoy the new page.  Stay tuned for more enhancements!

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

New Website to Check Out

Have you ever read “The Bark” magazine? Well, you do not necessarily need a subscription. They feature interesting articles and have lots of helpful information on their website. Check it out at http://www.thebark.com/


Rescue Mommy

Book Review: 30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog by Tamar Gellar

Book Review: 30 Days to a Well-Mannered Dog by Tamar Gellar, 2010


This book offers more advice than her previous book, The Loved Dog. The week-by-week lessons provide a good training guide. Each week, you build upon previous lessons.

Now, did Gracie magically become a well-mannered dog in 30 days? No. For starters, there were some things she had already mastered – housebreaking, sit, leave it, et cetera.

The main problem, though, is dedication on my part. As with all training, if you do not commit the time, you do not get the result. However, I have learned a few tips to apply on a daily basis. Plus, I have a good guide to follow when I stop being lazy.

I would definitely recommend this book as a great training resource. Ms. Gellar’s patient, loving approach will yield the results you want – if you make the time for training, of course!

Rescue Mommy

I Am A Bit Lazy

I read lots of books and articles about dog training. I do try to be consistent in my commands with Gracie. However, I confess that I have been a bit lazy lately.

Gracie is a bit stubborn. If you are not consistent and…I hate to say “firm,” but I think you know what I mean…she will do whatever she likes. She just looks around as if she wants to say, “What?? Did you say something??”

This week, we have been working on the basics again. She has not forgotten them. She just knows she does not always have to use them to get what she wants.

I tell this story because it is easy to let hectic schedules take over. The next thing you know, your dog is misbehaving, and you are frustrated. You do not train your buddy a command once and expect your friend to know it forever. Consistent application is the key to success. Now, let’s get out the treat bag and spend some time with our furry friends!

Rescue Mommy

Happy Thanksgiving!

From all of us at Rescue Pets Rule, have a safe Thanksgiving holiday with your human and furry friends and family. 

Squeaky Monkey Mania

Mini Stuffing Free Monkey Toy



By Petstages, Available at PetSmart, about $7

Gracie is crazy about the squeaky monkey toy, as evident from her numerous blogs about it. She was extremely disappointed when the puppy-on-loan broke it. Unfortunately, it took me a few weeks to find a replacement. Apparently, others have discovered the joy of the squeaky monkey toy too.

As you can see from the picture below, the toy is designed for smaller dogs. I would not recommend it for larger dogs or power chewers. Gracie plays with it for about 30 minutes or so, then moves on to another toy. The fabric would not withstand rough play, as the puppy certainly proved.

The toy itself is made of soft fabric covering a plastic tube. The tube is designed in such a way that it makes two noises: one high-pitched squeak, one deeper moan. The packaging claims that the chamber will squeak even if it is punctured. It will; however, the noises will not be as pronounced as they are when the chamber is intact. Gracie was disappointed when this happened and would not play with the toy very much after it happened.

I definitely recommend the toy, though. She absolutely loves it.

People Food Hazards - Thanksgiving Reload

Thanksgiving is Thursday. Let’s revisit the people food hazard list:

Alcohol
Avocado
Caffeine
Chives
Chocolate
Coffee
Garlic
Grapes and Raisins
Macadamia Nuts
Milk
Onions
Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Bones (no turkey bones!)
Salt
Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
Yeast Dough

*Source: ASPCA website

If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.

Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.

We hope you and your family have a safe, wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Rescue Mommy

I Love Fall Too

I totally agree with Gracie. Fall is my favorite season. Few things are still in bloom, so a stroll in the woods does not result in clogged sinuses. The heat and humidity of summer has departed. The frigid, bone-chilling temps and mounds of snow have yet to arrive. It is perfect.

We have a few precious weeks before winter arrives. Get outside this weekend and spend some time with your buddy. Before we know it, a 5-minute stroll will require 50 layers of clothing. Let’s enjoy it while we can!

Rescue Mommy

Restrain Yourself

Last week, I was involved in a very minor traffic accident. Fortunately, no one involved was seriously hurt. No pets were inside either vehicle.

If Gracie, Kiki, or Maddy had been in the car, I can only hope they would have been okay too. When Gracie rides in the car, I use a very simple, inexpensive device to restrain her. It looks like a miniature leash. It attaches to her harness, and you then thread the loop through the seatbelt. It allows her to stand but otherwise restrains her in the seat. I found it at PetSmart for about $4.

Some people place their pets in carriers. This is the approach I take with the cats. I then secure the carrier by looping the seatbelt through the handle or using carrier straps (again, found at Petsmart) through which I thread the seatbelt. I would not want the carrier to shift about in travel or, in the worst case, come crashing forward in the event of an accident.

Regardless of the method you use, please consider using some sort of device to restrain your pet. Not only will it greatly improve his or her chance of surviving an accident, it might prevent one from occurring in the first place. Be safe!

Rescue Mommy

The Search Continues

We are still looking for a potential friend for Gracie. We attended another adoption fair over the weekend – without Gracie. We have decided that she is simply too anxious to offer any genuine reaction to another dog.  If we see anyone who looks promising, we will schedule a visit between the contender and her at a more neutral, less distracting location.

We spotted a lovely Dalmatian offered by a local humane society. It had so many spots that it was almost black. It looked like a great dog, still young. We were thrilled to see it had been adopted.

We found two beagles that looked promising. One was about five years old, which is older than we had planned to adopt. However, we really like her laidback energy. I (Rescue Mommy) hesitate because I do not want two dogs close to the same age. I worry that they would both die around the same time.

It is a really silly thing. Let’s face it. Perdy and Dino were four years apart in age, yet both died within a little over a year of each other. There are no guarantees in life.

The other beagle was about 1.5 years old. It was harder to get a read on his energy. Exhibiting typical beagle behavior, he was more interested in smelling every blade of grass and tracking his crate buddy, the 5-year old female.

We will continue to mull it over. Any advice is appreciated. We will keep you posted!

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

Christmas Tree Safety

As you have probably read by now, the Christmas tree is up at our house. It is an artificial tree, so there’s no need to protest deforestation for the sake of Christmas.

The tree always becomes a favorite cat toy during the time it is up. One year, I found Maddy lying deep inside the lower section of the tree! I am sure it is the same at your house. I wanted to offer a few tips and tricks I use when trimming the tree:

• Leave the icicles outside. I am not sure if these are a big thing where you live, but they are quite common here in the South. They are little bits of silver mystery material that basically have intestinal distress written all over them. Kiki encountered them on my mother’s tree once and LOVED them. They certainly made for an interesting litter box cleaning that week.

• Sacrifice a few ornaments for the “kids.” I place a few non-breakable ornaments on the lower limbs. Let the furry kids play with them and place the nicer stuff higher on the tree.

• Fishing line can be your friend. One year, I decorated the tree with beautiful glass ornaments. I used fishing line to tie the ornaments to the tree. Yes, it took longer to decorate the tree and much longer to disassemble it later. Not a single ornament was broken, though.

• Speaking of fishing line, watch out for hooks. I found plastic ornament hooks and use them, instead of the old-fashioned metal kind. I figure plastic would do less damage to paws than metal would. I also wrap the hook several times around the limb. I do not want the cats (or dog) to eat any hook, plastic or metal.

• Hold your tree hostage. If you fear your buddies are going to pull down the tree, place a small hook in the wall. Tie the fishing line to the tree and through the hook. Sure, you will have a small hole in the wall to patch later. What’s worse? A little hole in the wall or a sound of the tree, crashing to the floor at 2:00 a.m.? And, yes, it would be at 2:00 a.m.; it always is!

With the holidays fast approaching, I welcome any suggestions you have for holiday safety.

Book Review Coming: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

A colleague at work lent me this book. She said it is great. It is told from the dog’s point of view. The back cover is filled with accolades from notable writers and reviewers.

My reading list is getting longer and longer! Better get started….

Rescue Mommy

Training Never Ends

As I have mentioned on several occasions, Gracie has a few issues (don’t we all??). She hates riding in the car, and I have detailed several things I have tried to conquer her fear. She also has a problem with her food bowl.

With my previous dogs, I worked with them from puppyhood to eliminate any food aggression. It worked so well that anyone, even small children, could place their hands in the dogs’ bowls without fear of being bitten. However, when you adopt an older rescue dog, you do not get that opportunity. Do not let that deter you from adopting an older dog, though. Just know that you will have a little more work ahead of you.

During Gracie’s second meal of the day, I have experimented with different training techniques. Lately, I have been holding the bowl, letting her take a bite, and then pulling the bowl away. At first, she would hurriedly inhale as much food as she could before I removed the bowl. Gradually, she is beginning to relax and not eat so rapidly. She still tries to grab the last few bites as quickly as possible. It will just take time.

A trainer I visited also suggested placing your hand in the bowl along with a Vienna sausage or other highly desirable treat. When I did this, Gracie inhaled the treat – and proceeded to gobble the rest of her food, lest “the hand” steal it.

As I have said many times, training involves trying lots of different techniques until you find something that works for your buddy. Please share any tips you have for handling food aggression. I could use the advice!

Rescue Mommy

Product Review: Tuffy Dog Toys

Available at PetSmart and independent pet stores



Check out the company’s website, mydogtoy.com

I found these toys over two years ago when I was looking for a toy I could leave with Dino. He would shred traditional stuffed toys, so I did not feel comfortable leaving him alone with that type. I bought him a big red lizard by Tuffy. He did not like it. He preferred soft stuffed toys.

Gracie, on the other hand, loves this line of dog toys. The toys are a bit firmer than a stuffed toy. The tag on the toys states the toys are built with three layers of material and five rows of stitching. Gracie still plays with the red lizard and several other Tuffy toys I bought. Her favorite is a red ring (see picture) that can be used for tugging or tossing.

The toys even survived the puppy who visited us recently. The edge of the toys was only slightly frayed in spots after a week of gnawing. On a long-term basis, they might not survive as long as they will with an adult dog. (Of course, no dog toy lasts forever.)

The company makes various styles. They have a “tuff-scale” for each toy. The scale indicates how durable the toy will be based upon your dog’s chewing habits. You can then select an appropriate toy from their line.

The toys are a little more expensive than other toys. The toys have been very durable for me, though, so they are worth the extra expense.

Rescue Mommy

Still Looking

On Saturday, we visited the no-kill shelter operated by a local rescue group. We did not take Gracie with us because we wanted to get a feel for the contender before he or she met Gracie.

We are always amazed to see how many wonderful dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds are available. We saw lots of dogs who, under different circumstances, would have been loaded into our car straight away. However, Gracie’s wants and needs must be considered.

Unfortunately, we did not find any contenders on this visit. We have spoken with the director of the rescue group and told her our preferences. At first, we were a bit worried that she might think we were too picky. She said she preferred that we were thoughtful about our decision. It is a long-term commitment.

As always, we will keep you posted on our progress. We hope our journey helps you too.

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Puppy Update

We have continued to be in contact with Jack the Jack Russell terrier’s foster Mommy. As you may remember, Jack was the puppy who stayed with us recently. It did not work out with Gracie. We knew he would make a great dog for someone, though.

He is with a family who has an eleven-acre farm and other dogs. So far, things are going great. We are keeping our fingers crossed. We will let you know when the little fellow has been adopted.

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

People Food Hazards

Halloween is Sunday, and the holidays are just around the corner. We all know that chocolate is highly toxic to pets. Did you know that these foods are toxic too?

• Coffee
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Avocado
• Macadamia Nuts
• Grapes and Raisins
• Yeast Dough
• Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Bones
• Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
• Onions, Garlic, Chives
• Milk
• Salt

*Source: ASPCA website

If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.

Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.

Bluegrass Therapy

As I mentioned in an earlier post, Gracie displayed an affinity for bluegrass music when we visited a farmers market recently. It was a surprise. I decided to try a little experiment.

Gracie continues to be anxious about riding in a car. I am trying to help her conquer her fear by placing her in the car a few nights a week and just sitting in the driveway. I give her treats and lots of affection.

Now, I have added bluegrass music to the mix. She seems to relax a little bit sooner than normal. Her tail even appeared to wag to the beat of one song. She really seems to enjoy the music – as long as we stay in the driveway.

It is tough dealing with doggie anxiety. I will continue to experiment until I find something that works. Feel free to share any tips you have.

Rescue Mommy

Another Visit to an Adoption Fair

On Saturday, Gracie and I attended an adopt-a-thon sponsored by a local rescue group. Several other groups were there too. In fact, the shelter from whom we adopted Gracie was supposed to be there, but they did not show.

While we certainly looked for potential playmates, we were not hopeful that we will find a friend at an adoption fair. All the barking and mayhem makes Gracie anxious. It is hard to get a genuine reaction from her. Our main goal at these events is socialization.

Gracie is doing a little better in her encounters with other dogs. Sure, she still growls if the large dogs get a little too pushy. She is following standard doggie introduction protocol, which is a big improvement from her behavior a few months ago.

We will keep you posted about our search for a playmate. We have not found anyone yet who would be a suitable match. If you are looking too, good luck to you!

Rescue Mommy

What Are We Reading?

A few weeks ago, I reviewed Tamar Geller’s book, The Loved Dog. In that book, she offered a lot of great training advice. I like her style of motivating a dog with love rather than harsh discipline. I was glad to see that she finally wrote another book, Thirty Days to a Well-Mannered Dog.

The book was released about a week ago. So far, the book seems to be following the same track. I will give you a complete review in the future.

The next book on the list is A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron. It is written from the prospective of a stray dog. I read a little sample and immediately began kicking myself for not thinking of the idea. It looks promising. I will keep you posted.

If you have any books you would like to recommend, please leave a comment. Happy reading!

Rescue Mommy

Jack Russell Terrier Epidemic

I have been regularly checking a local rescue group’s website as I search for a possible friend for Gracie. I have been surprised at the high rate of Jack Russell Terriers who are being found by or surrendered to the group. I checked another local group’s site and found a few there too. What is going on?

I suspect it is the classic problem that occurs with all breeds. People fall in love with the idea or look of a breed. Maybe a popular TV show or movie features a particular breed. So, they get a cute little puppy. Then, they quickly realize the cute image does not match the animal in their house.

Please research carefully before you bring any pet into your home. I confess that I did not believe a lot of the things I read about Dalmatians before I adopted mine many, many years ago. What a huge mistake! She drove me to tears on more than one occasion. I made a commitment, though, and stuck with it. She eventually calmed to normal dog level…when she was 10 years old. (In fact, she was still running until two weeks before she died.)

Before you begin your search for a pet, I recommend you first consider the qualities you want BEFORE you consider an actual breed. Make a list of all the things you enjoy doing. Decide how much time you are willing to give to a pet. Now that you have your list, you can search for breeds that are compatible with your lifestyle. Too often, people fall in love with the appearance of a breed, not the qualities of the breed.

After you have narrowed your list to a breed or particular set of breeds that might work for you, check out breed aficionado websites. Talk with your vet, who may have firsthand knowledge of the breed. Hang out at pet shops; you might meet someone who has the particular breed as a companion. Most pet owners will generally talk your ear off about their buddy.

Yes, I advocate adopting rescued pets. If you are patient, you can find a purebred dog through a rescue group. Do not overlook mutts, though. They are just as fabulous as purebred dogs. After all, you do not require that your friends descend from royalty, so why should it be different for your dog?

As for my opinion of Jack Russells, I would not recommend them to inexperienced pet owners. They are high energy and intelligent, which can be a dangerous combination. Gracie’s energy level does not bother me, though, because of my prior Dalmatian ownership. It is a bit much for others, though, particularly small children. Also, she is four years old so she does not have the boundless energy of a pup, which is another reason to consider adopting an older dog.

I knew going into the relationship that I would need to provide her with plenty of exercise. She gets at least two, thirty-minute walks/jogs a day. My motto is, “A tired Jack Russell is a HAPPY Jack Russell.” As long as she gets her daily walks and a good play session or two during the day, she is content.

So, when you start your search, please be honest with how much time, patience, and energy you can give your pet. You are not bringing home the highly-trained Lassie or Eddie from “Frasier.” As we have said many, many times, you are making a commitment that will last a pet’s lifetime. Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Training Mistake

On Saturday, I decided to take Gracie on a little adventure. I sprayed D.A.P. on her Thundershirt in preparation for our trip. I wrestled her into the shirt. Then, I noticed she was trembling. She was terrified. I made a big mistake.

The only time Gracie smells D.A.P. or wears a Thundershirt is on car rides. She now associates those things with a car ride, which sends her into an anxious state. Things that were supposed to sooth her do the opposite.

My plan now is to use these items at home. She needs to become comfortable with them again and no longer associate them with a car ride. If your dog associates a particular item with the source of his or her anxiety, you must find a creative way to reverse that opinion. Keep my mistake in mind if you too are struggling with a training problem.

Rescue Mommy

Product Review: Omega Paw Portion Pacer Ball

Product Review: Omega Paw Portion Pacer

Cost: $12 (on sale) for medium-to-large dog size at PetSmart

Vacuums are nothing compared to a puppy. As I watched the little guy inhale half a cup of food in what seemed like seconds, I realized I needed to find something to slow the eating process.

It is not healthy for a dog to gulp food or water because it can lead to bloat. Some breeds are predisposed to bloat. I say better safe than sorry. Besides, how can you make a quick getaway if the dog eats everything in two seconds?

I had seen bowls with a raised dome in the center that claim to prevent gulping of food. Unfortunately, I could not find one at the pet store. I found the Portion Pacer instead and decided to give it a try.

The Portion Pacer is a weighted, stainless steel ball that has no seams. The premise is that the ball will slow the eating process because it blocks immediate access to some of the food. I bought the medium-to-large dog size ball because I still use the bowls that belonged to my dearly departed dogs, Perdy and Dino.

I tried it with the puppy first. It made very little difference. He still inhaled his food in seconds.

I tried it next with Gracie, who gobbled her food in fear the pup would steal it. Again, I saw no appreciable difference. Both the puppy and she quickly ate the food that was not blocked by the ball then nudged it out of the way to access the rest.

Since I have never used the bowls with the built-in, raised dome, I am not sure if they work better. I do know that the Portion Pacer ball did not work well for me. I most definitely would not buy another one.

Rescue Mommy

Hairball Season

Are you guys dealing with hairballs more than normal this year? Maddy is having a really tough time. We have tried the stuff in a tube that is supposed to help them pass the hairball. We have tried the “hairball control” food in the past. We bought a Furminator grooming tool which removes mounds of hair. Nothing seems to correct the situation. Do you guys have any tips?

I mentioned the barfing problem at the vet’s office on Saturday, when I was there with Gracie. I plan to take Maddy to the vet, just to make sure everything is okay. I will let you know if I learn anything from the visit.

We still have Dino’s clippers. Maybe we will shave Maddy….just kidding!

Rescue Mommy

What We Learned from the Puppy Experiment

Last week’s visit from the adorable puppy gave us some insights we would like to share with you. Hopefully, you will find them helpful if you too are considering the addition of a pet to your family. While we are discussing a dog, I am sure the same thought processes would be used if you were considering a cat.

We are incredibly grateful that the rescue group allowed us to bring the puppy home for a few days. When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment that will last his or her lifetime. If you cannot provide the life he or she needs, you really should not adopt the pet. Tens of thousands of animals end up in shelters and with rescue groups every day because he or she was not the right fit for a family.

Since Gracie was a mother, we assumed she would be able to deal with the puppy. We thought she would know exactly what to do to correct the puppy and teach it what it needed to know. In hindsight, we realize how misguided that was. Let’s face it. Grandparents everywhere are happy to see their grandchildren. When the little kids leave with their parents, though, some grandparents are relieved to see them go because of the demands for attention and care. Why did we think that Gracie would be different?

In the excitement of having a puppy around the house, we found it a little difficult to assess Gracie’s reaction. Puppies are little whirlwinds. It is easy to spend more time watching the puppy (particularly one that is not housetrained) than paying attention to the other dog. We decided to use our camcorder to record their interactions. We watched the videos and closely analyzed Gracie’s behavior. It was apparent that, while she enjoyed playing for awhile, she could not cope with the constant need for play.

Gracie is much happier now that the puppy is not here. We are still debating whether or not to bring another dog into the house. However, we are looking at an older dog now. We still plan to do a trial visit before adoption. Ultimately, Gracie may tell us in her own way that she wants to be the only dog in the house. We are totally fine with that. After all, the whole experiment is about giving Gracie a better life.

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

A Decision

After closely tracking Gracie’s behavior for the last week, we decided that the puppy was not a good fit for her. Gracie would play for a time and then wanted to be left alone. Unfortunately, the puppy did not understand. Puppies have two speeds: play and sleep.

We had hoped that Gracie’s Jack Russell energy and maternal instincts would work with the puppy. It became clear over the last two days, though, that he was stressing her out. The tipping point came when we found her hiding from the puppy. She would run away and jump to the highest point on the sofa so that he could not get to her.

We returned him to his foster mom last night. She assured me that he would remain in foster care until he found a home. (The rescue group has its own shelter and uses foster homes too.) It is a comfort for us that another lady is very interested in adopting the puppy. She lost her 15-year old Jack Russell a few months ago so she knows the breed. She is a friend of the foster mom and had met him after he was “promised” to us. He will find a good home.

Next week, we will talk a bit more about what we have learned from this experience. Stay tuned!

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

P.S. When we handed the puppy to his foster mom, he could not stop wagging his tail and licking her face. He was overjoyed. She said they were fostering another puppy, so the little guy will have a blast.

Puppy Update

Things have been going very well with the puppy. Gracie regularly has been initiating play with the puppy. She still gives a few warning nips, but that is normal.

The puppy has some issues with housebreaking. He is very young. You cannot expect him to “hold it” for hours at a time as an adult dog can.

We said we would wait until Saturday to make a decision. We may make the decisions sooner, though, if things continue to go well. We will keep you posted.

Rescue Mommy

The Great Puppy Experiment

Well, this weekend did not go exactly as planned. The puppy arrived Thursday afternoon. Gracie and the puppy greeted each other by growling and snapping as if they wanted to rip apart each other’s throats. I had expected a little uneasiness from Gracie but was startled to see it from this little puppy.

Gracie exhibited some anxious behaviors over the last couple of days. By Sunday, though, they were playing a lot more. Gracie seems to be getting more comfortable with him.

I admit that I experienced some anxiety as well. It has been 14 years since Dino was a puppy and 18 years since Perdy was a hyperactive puppy. I had forgotten how diligent you must be with a pup. Everything goes in the mouth, like a toddler. He is particularly fond of rotten crabapples from a tree in my yard – and rabbit “caviar.”

He is fearless. He charges after Gracie at full speed and tries to climb everywhere she does. Ordinarily, this would not be a problem. However, we have to be extra careful since his little leg is still healing from the surgery.

We plan to keep him a few more days before we make a decision. We want Gracie to be comfortable. The good news is that a friend of the puppy’s foster mom wants the puppy if we do not. He will find a good home. We hope it is ours!

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Puppy Slumber Party

This weekend is the big weekend! The rescue group said Jack the Jack Russell Terrier is coming for a slumber party at our house this weekend.

His foster mom reports that the muscle tone has improved in his damaged leg. Let’s hope his leg continues to improve and can be saved. We will let know how everything goes in next week’s posts. Fingers crossed, Gracie will love the little guy. As for the cats, well, that would take a miracle.

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

Book Review: Puppy Chow is Better Than Prozac by Bruce Goldstein

Book Review: Puppy Chow is Better Than Prozac: The True Story of a Man and the Dog Who Saved His Life. Bruce Goldstein, 2008.


If you ever wondered what it would be like to descend into the depths of depression or suffer extreme manic behavior, Mr. Goldstein succeeds in taking you to that dark place. Diagnosed with manic depression and suffering from a broken heart, Mr. Goldstein’s life is pure misery. The knives in his kitchen are telling him to kill himself. He sees Satan at a park.

During a weekend with friends, he has a severe episode. Alone in his room, a friend’s dog comes to him. The dog does not judge. The dog is not afraid of him. In desperation, Mr. Goldstein decides maybe a dog would help him regain his life.

He adopts a black Labrador Retriever who he names Ozzy. You will laugh out loud as he describes the first harrowing night with a puppy, the first poop-scoop, the first bath. I particularly loved the puppy diaper bag he packed. For example, he carries a spray bottle to cool Ozzy's feet; who would think of that?

Ozzy transforms his life. Mr. Goldstein must now focus on something other than his lost love or other problems. He also introduces Mr. Goldstein to lots of different people. After all, who can resist a puppy?

Mr. Goldstein has a great way of describing his journey. It is heavy subject matter. Stick with it. When Ozzy enters Mr. Goldstein’s life, you will be inspired by how much the dog transforms his life. No, Ozzy does not cure Mr. Goldstein’s mental illness. He helps him to find balance, though.

As an aside, thank you to Mr. Goldstein for the rant about KFC. I agree wholeheartedly and laughed out loud when you described what “KFC” really means.

If you want to know what that comment was all about as well as read a truly inspirational story, I suggest picking up a copy of this book. The dog DOES NOT die at the end, so don’t worry about that. And, the closing line is excellent: “I thank God this book was written by Bruce Goldstein. Not in memory of.” Good boy, Ozzy.

Rescue Mommy

Preparing for Puppy

Gracie is an angel. Her damage total is very light. She shredded a piddle pad. She tore holes into the little bag in which they stuff newspapers when it rains. That’s about it.

A puppy, on the other hand, can be a little whirlwind. I spent the weekend puppy proofing the house. Fortunately, I already had cabinet locks and outlet covers in case the nephews and niece visit. I added a few extra throw rugs in the basement. Since the little guy has a bum leg, slippery floors would exacerbate the problem. I still have more things to do. I have a few low-lying things that will definitely be plundered if not properly stowed.

I also bought a tiny harness and collar for him. It is not fancy stuff. I could not resist. I bought a little sweater too to keep him warm, but I think it is too big. He is a tiny fellow.

I received a status report from his foster mom. She said he was neutered last week. The surgery went well. She also said his leg seems to be getting better. The muscle tone is showing an improvement. Let’s hope the improvements continue. It would be great if the leg could be saved. No offense to tripods!

I am still waiting for the all clear for the puppy slumber party. As soon as I have a date, I will let you know. For now, I need to pay attention to Ms. Gracie. Because of the heavy rain, she was deprived of her twice daily speed runs. She is feeling feisty.

Rescue Mommy

Is He The One?

On Sunday, we met a puppy named Jack who is available for adoption. He is a 9-week old Jack Russell Terrier who was found hiding underneath a parked car. One of his legs was in bad shape. The folks at the rescue group are not sure if he was hit by a car or otherwise injured and abandoned. He has had surgery to correct the damage. We will have to take it month-by-month to see if the leg can be saved.

We were a little nervous about meeting a terrier. After all, the trainer had warned that another terrier with high energy could be trouble. We had to meet him, though, after we spotted his picture and heard his story.

Little Jack was surprisingly mellow. He was a little feisty when he first met Gracie. He wanted to play with her; she was not interested. Then, he strolled around the park, putting things in his mouth (as puppies do) and checking out the area.

He did not fidget when I held him. More importantly, Gracie did not have a problem with me giving him affection. She usually barks whenever I pet Kiki, so this was interesting. Of course, Kiki picks on Gracie quite a bit, so I can understand the annoyance.

Will he be the one? We do not know yet. It will be at least two weeks before we can bring him home for a slumber party. Yes, I said slumber party. The rescue group will let us bring him home for a weekend to make sure Gracie likes him before we make a permanent commitment. We will let you know when that day comes and tell you how it works out. Stay tuned!

Rescue Mommy

Book Review Coming: Puppy Chow is Better Than Prozac by Bruce Goldstein

I have not quite finished Puppy Chow is Better Than Prozac by Bruce Goldstein.  I hoped to finish it in time for this week’s blog posting.

I am about halfway through the book. I have really enjoyed it thus far, even though the subject matter is a bit heavy. It is the story of a man diagnosed with manic depression and his horrible struggles with the illness. In desperation, he decides a dog might help. I have reached the section where he has just adopted a black Lab puppy. His description of the first night with his new friend is laugh out loud funny in parts.

Stay tuned for the full review later….

Rescue Mommy

Protect Mama!

As I have mentioned in the past, Gracie does her best imitation of a Rottweiler whenever she sees a larger dog. From what I have heard, this is very common among smaller dogs. It is still unacceptable, though, regardless of the dog’s size.

I have tried different tricks recommended by trainers. Nothing seemed to click with her. Then, while reading a JRT breed book, I got an idea. The book mentioned that Jack Russells are protective. Why not work with the instinct instead of against it?

Gracie runs to me whenever I crouch down to her level. She wants to be petted and to give kisses. For the last several days, I have tried using her desire for affection to correct aggression.

We routinely encounter two very mean dogs on our daily walk. When we approach the house, Gracie goes into full-on Rottie mode. When she does this, I crouch to the ground. I say, “Gracie, protect Mama!!”

The first time I tried this, I had to say the command a few times. She finally turned, saw that I was down on her level, and ran to me. She then stood beside me as I repeated “protect Mama.” (By the way, I would NEVER try this if the dogs were actually charging us. I only do it when I know the dogs are securely restrained in their yard.)

My ultimate goal is to teach Gracie to come to my side whenever she is in a stressful situation. The “protect Mama” command will be the initial queue. I plan to continue this little exercise and hope to reach a point where I no longer have to bend to her level or issue a command. I want her to automatically come to me. She is a very smart dog. With repetition, I think I can get there.

When you are trying to correct an undesired behavior in your dog, I recommend looking at the dog’s natural behaviors. Then, try to think of a way you can use that behavior to accomplish what you want. Don’t give up!

Rescue Mommy

More Stuff

We have decided to broaden the subject matter for the Rescue Pets Review blog. We plan to spend a little more time discussing training challenges and progress and other issues that pop up when you have furry companions. We will still offer reviews about books and products.

We want to offer more content, though. Let’s face it. Being a responsible pet owner is about more than the gear you buy. We hope you like the direction we are taking. Stay tuned!

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Wacky Walkr Leash

Cost around $22, depending upon size
Website listed below shows retailers who sell this leash.
Website:  https://wackywalkr.websitesource.net/

This leash is the trick! I used it this past weekend when Gracie and I visited the vet and ran errands. During previous excursions “in public,” I felt as if my shoulder would be dislocated whenever Gracie spotted something of interest. As advertised, the Wacky Walkr leash restricts pulling.

When she charged forward, the leash absorbed the impact. I only felt a slight tug. Gracie did not seem bothered. This will be the shortest product review ever – buy this leash if you have a dog who loves to tug!  It is amazing!

Rescue Mommy

The Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook & The Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook

Book review: The Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook and The Cat Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook, Drs. Debra M. Eldredge, Liisa D. Carlson, Delbert G. Carlson, and James M. Giffin, 2007.

I bought the handbooks around the time that I learned my first dog had cancer. Since that time, I have referred to the dog handbook too many times to count. It is filled with useful, detailed information every pet owner should have at his or her fingertips.

The inside front cover contains an index of signs and symptoms that is very helpful. The book itself has pictures for certain conditions and anatomical diagrams for others. I especially like that it describes in detail which conditions should prompt an immediate vet visit and offers practical advice for those conditions that do not. For example, the authors have a detailed explanation of various forms of diarrhea, offer home remedies, and discuss various causes beyond the usual food intolerance. Yes, it is a bit gross, but that’s life!

I am sure the cat handbook is just as helpful. Thankfully, I have not needed it – yet. I highly recommend adding these books to your library.

Rescue Mommy

Gracie's Latest "Trick"

She likes to eat her dry food in the evenings.  She wants me to hold the bowl, tilted, while she eats upstairs.  Tonight, she growled softly when I ignored her.  Spoiled much?

Rescue Mommy

Who is the Trainer?

As I mentioned in earlier posts, we have been thinking about adding another dog to our furry family. We have met with a trainer. During Saturday’s visit to the vet, we got her thoughts about the situation. We want to share our thought process in case you too are thinking about either bringing your first pet into your home or adding another to your brood.

On Saturday, I visited a pet adoption fair with Gracie. I was not seriously interested in finding a pet that day. I wanted to use the experience as a training exercise. What could be more chaotic that a bunch of dogs and cats at an adoption fair?

It turned out to be a great training exercise for me too. When you see a dog in a cage, who does not want to take it home, especially if the dog in question is super cute and whimpering? Plus, I absolutely love dogs as much as Rescue Daddy loves cats. If I could, I would take every single one of those dogs home with me. However, I have a responsibility to find a dog that will be a good match for Gracie, Kiki, and Maddy.

I forced aside those emotions and seriously evaluated what traits would be best for them. It was an important exercise. I strongly urge you to be as objective as possible. Take a friend with you when you look, if you do not think you can be objective. You are about to make a serious commitment to care for another life.

Gracie growled at the big dogs, as she always does (so much for that gorgeous yellow Lab). She was less threatened by dogs in her size range. She was inquisitive but not aggressive, an appropriate reaction. “Yappers” made her anxious. Even though she is a terrier, she is mellow at home. The trainer had advised that a high energy dog might amp up Gracie. It would certainly terrify the cats.

I left the fair with more ideas of what my work with our family. I had also gained valuable information from one of the rescue groups. It turns out that they will let you take a dog home for the weekend, so you can see if all the family members are happy together. Then, if all goes well, you can finalize the adoption.

I also have reconciled myself to the fact that Gracie may not find someone she likes. She may prefer to be the only dog. I will continue to update this blog as we determine what to do.

Rescue Mommy

Book Review: The Loved Dog by Tamar Geller

The Loved Dog: The Playful, Non Aggressive Way to Teach Your Dog Good Behavior, Tamar Geller with Andrea Cagan, 2007.

I raised my two previous dogs from puppyhood. Since Gracie was three when I adopted her, I knew training her would be a completely different experience. What had her previous owner(s) instilled in her? Did she have any doggie manners? Would she try to attack the cats? Was she properly socialized?

The Loved Dog was one of the first books I read after Gracie joined our family. Ms. Geller is a former Israeli intelligence officer who founded the first cage-free doggy boarding and daycare center in southern California. She developed cruelty-free training techniques based upon her experiences from a troubled childhood and the abusive training methods she witnessed while serving in the military.

I really enjoyed this book. Ms. Geller’s approach is gentle and methodical. I felt her techniques were geared more toward gradually building a bond with your dog than mastering dominance over him or her. In fact, it seems to me that “gentle leader” would be the role she wants you to have, not domineering master.

Her methods are logical. For example, she notes that we often ramble on and on when giving a command to our dog: “Now, Gracie, I want you to be a good girl and potty as soon as we go outside because Mommy is tired and wants to go to bed.” So, what exactly did you want me to do, Mommy?? She recommends that you say the word “good” and add the command – “good walk,” “good sit,” et cetera. It builds the dog’s vocabulary and gives him/her a better chance at success.

Another technique I liked was her rewards system. She recommends having three levels of treats: gold, silver, and bronze. The higher the treat value (i.e. gold), the more complicated the behavior. I tried this technique early on with the car-riding phobia. Unfortunately, Gracie had completely shut down by then. No treat in the world would bring her back. I still think the system could be very effective, though. In my situation, I feel it would be better to try it when Gracie and I are learning other obedience commands, not trying to conquer fear.

Overall, I have found that her non-aggressive methods are effective with Gracie. I do not want Gracie to do something because she fears me. I want her to do it because she is having fun. You will find lots of great tips in the book. I would definitely recommend adding The Loved Dog to your training library.

Rescue Mommy

How to Select a Leash

Go into any pet store (or even retail store, for that matter), and you will be astonished at the variety of leashes available. Back in the day, you had a choice between either a nylon leash in primary colors or a leather leash. Today, you have endless choices – leashes made from eco-friendly hemp, leashes that resemble tattoo designs, leashes in nearly every color and pattern imaginable. If you are a new pet companion, how do you choose the right leash for you?

At minimum, you need a basic, 6-foot nylon leash. Most leashes come in 3 widths – 5/8 inch, 3/4 inch, and 1 inch. The wider the width, the bigger the dog. If you have a larger dog, the theory is a wider width gives you a bit of leverage. (Having owned two dogs who weighed 70 pounds each in their prime, I can say that it helps a little.) A 6-ft. leash is a good length for everyday use and essential for urban environments. In fact, I have seen signs at some dog-friendly beaches stating the leash can be no longer than 6 feet.

You will see longer lengths in leashes. You can find anything from 25 to 100 feet. Keep in mind that these leashes are intended for training purposes, not daily walks. In my experience, the farther your dog is from you, the harder it is to control him or her. Unless your dog is perfect little citizen, you want him or her close by. You would not want your friend to dart in front of a car.

What about retractable leashes? I do not like them. A lot of trainers agree. I tried one with Gracie. I did not feel as if I had control. Plus, the leash’s width is so small. I envisioned it snapping at the first hard tug.

Speaking of tugging, I just bought a special leash called a “Wacky Walkr.” The leash bit is a piece of latex that looks and feels like an exercise band. The idea is the leash will offer some resistance when the dog pulls. The leash does the work, not you. I have heard that this type of leash is a great training tool if you need to address pulling issues. I will update you after I have had a chance to fully test the leash.

These are just a few of the leash options. Remember, you do not need a fancy leash. Your dog is more interested in the walk than a $150 Gucci leash. Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Patience is Rewarded

We had two training breakthroughs over the weekend. They may seem minor to you. They were major for our little furry family.

The first breakthrough involves Maddy. Gracie has been a part of our family for almost eleven months now. For the entire time, Maddy has hidden under the bed whenever Gracie is upstairs. Over the weekend, Maddy crept from her hideaway a few times while Gracie was upstairs. She even came face to face with Gracie on a few occasions. She did not run. She stood her ground. She hissed at Gracie a couple of times. It was a miracle.

The next breakthrough came from Miss Gracie. From Day One, I have asked her to sit before she is allowed outside. I am happy to say that, within her first 24 hours here, she mastered that command. However, there is one time when she refuses to do it – the bedtime potty break. She looks at me sideways and pretends not to hear me.

It is frustrating. On Saturday night, she plopped down on command and happily waited to go outside. It was amazing.

Will these little miracles continue? Who knows? The important thing to remember when you are training your pets is that it is an ongoing battle. Rejoice when it goes well. Continue to be patient when it does not.

Happy Labor Day holiday to our readers in the States and Canada!

Rescue Mommy

Good Shake! Good Shake!!

The following training techniques were recommended specifically for Gracie. If your dog is experiencing problems, we strongly recommend that you pay a visit to a good trainer in your area. And, please, please do not scold or physically punish your dog. You are only making the situation worse.


The first step is to revisit obedience training. For example, Gracie needs to learn to say “please” for almost everything. She says “please” by sitting.

The key with training is to teach her to look for us for direction. At present, Gracie’s anxiety reaches crisis levels because she does not know what to do. It is “fight or flight.” Once she learns to look to us, her anxiety should ease.

The trainer mentioned we should encourage the “shake” calming signal by saying “good shake!” If Gracie feels better by having a good shake, she can use that as a tool to calm herself. Plus, think of all the loose hair we will not have to comb!

We should also use the Thundershirt and DAP mentioned in the previous post whenever she exhibits anxiety (during a thunderstorm, for example) or when we know she will be in a situation that typically causes stress. Then, the trainer advised that we introduce Gracie to the least-stressful events first and slowly build to more stressful things.

For example, we should take her to a small town that has some street traffic but not as much as a busy city street. Go to a pet store early in the morning or late in the day. Take short car rides, building up to longer rides. We had been doing this already but not recognizing the improvements we wanted. As she becomes more comfortable in these situations, her anxiety should lessen.

We hope to have a better chance to modify the stressed behavior. The trainer emphasized that Gracie needs to see us as the leaders. She needs to feel secure. In her present, high anxiety state, she does not feel confident. We need to instill that confidence in her, let her know that Rescue Mommy and Rescue Daddy will protect her from all the things that are scaring her. We will keep you posted on her progress.

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Shirts, Smells, and Supplements

Before our visit with the trainer, I had tried several different techniques and remedies. I have created a list of some of them so that you can consider them for your anxious pet.

Disclaimer: Before you try any technique/remedy/et cetera, please consult with your veterinarian. Your pet may have a medical reason for his or her anxiety, may be using a medicine that could cause an adverse reaction with the remedy, or have a medical condition that would be exacerbated by alternative medicines.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s review:

Bach Rescue Remedy.  It is a homeopathic remedy that contains herbal ingredients. It is advertised as a natural way to relive stress for your pet. It can be used on both cats and dogs. You administer 4 drops of the remedy in whatever way you can get your pet to consume it – on a treat, mixed in water, et cetera. (TIP: A colleague of mine uses chicken broth.)

I have heard some people say it works well for them. I suppose it depends upon how stressed your pet is. In Gracie’s case, I noticed zero improvement.

Lavender essential oil. This scent is soothing to both humans and animals. You put a few drops in water and mix well. You can then apply it to the underside of bedding, spritz it in the air, et cetera. It made Gracie sneeze.

NutriCalm for Dogs by Rx Vitamins. I purchased this through my vet’s office. It is a natural supplement that contains tryptophan, the substance that makes us snooze after Thanksgiving turkey. (Honestly, Uncle Bud, it is the turkey, not your boring conversation, that made me fall asleep.)

The capsules are HUGE for a little dog. I broke open a capsule and shoveled the powder into a treat. Then, Gracie and I wrestled a bit before she finally ate the treat.

I saw very, very little change in Gracie. I first gave it to her at home. She yawned a bit more frequently than normal. I then gave it to her before a long car ride, which causes the highest level of stress for her. I did not see an appreciable improvement. She could have been so overwrought, though, that it did not have a chance to work.

A colleague of mine gives this supplement to her arthritic dog. She swears by it. She said her dog used to be extremely restless at bedtime and did not sleep well. Since her dog has been taking NutriCalm, she rests much better at night.

UltraCalm tablets by Drs. Foster and Smith. These supplements are similar to NutriCalm. They had no effect on Gracie.

Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP). The concept behind DAP is mother dogs secrete pheromones that calm their puppies. DAP mimics those pheromones. It is available in travel wipes, sprays, and a plug-in device (similar to those stinky air fresheners you see on TV).

I tried the wipes. They had a strong alcohol smell that faded after a few minutes. I saw no change at all. I have since learned that I may have picked the wrong delivery system.

The trainer said you must use the appropriate dosage, or it may not work well. She used the spray. She applied 10 sprays to a bandana and tied it around Gracie’s neck. Gracie was also wearing a Thundershirt (more on that in a bit). I saw a gradual calming effect on Gracie. She did not completely chill, but you could see the anxiety easing.

Thundershirt.  It looks like a simple jersey shirt. You almost expect to see a cute message to be printed on the back.
The Thundershirt swaddles your dog. It applies pressure that is meant to have a calming effect. I had read about it but was hesitant to try yet another thing that might not work.

The trainer and I wrestled Gracie into the shirt. With both DAP and the Thundershirt, I noticed an improvement. Again, I want to emphasize that she did not completely relax. However, she began to relax. That is the first step in addressing the problem. She began to respond to training, which was my ultimate goal. I could work with her now.

You can get more information about the Thundershirt at their website – http://www.thundershirt.com/. Pay close attention to the chest measurements. The shirt is meant to fit snugly.


I know now that it sometimes takes a combination of things to ease tension in highly-stressed pets. Yes, I realize that I could ask the vet for the doggy equivalent of Prozac. I prefer to use natural methods whenever possible, though. Gracie’s anxiety is not so intense or life threatening that strong drugs are necessary.

We plan to use DAP and the Thundershirt whenever we approach situations that traditionally create stress. Tomorrow, we will discuss how training is used in the next component of our behavior modification project.

Rescue Mommy

Under Pressure

Gracie is a sweet, mellow dog at home, unlike your typical impression of a terrier. She rarely barks. She does not chase cats – well, only when they run from her. She learns new commands very quickly. She is content to sit in your lap.

However, loud noises such as cars, thunderstorms, motorcycles, et cetera scare her. A visit to the vet’s office, pet store, or a busy city presents her with so many stimuli that she is overwhelmed. While she now joyfully hops into the car, she curls into a ball as soon as she realizes we are not going to grandma’s house. Does any of this sound like behaviors you see in your dog?
We all recognize the laid-back ears, panting, and trembling as signs of stress and anxiety. I learned that dogs can present other signs:

• Shaking vigorously (think after a bath)
• Refuses to eat special treat
• Does not respond to training
• Nuzzles you for comfort

Gracie exhibited all of these behaviors during our recent visit with the trainer. She explained to me that dogs use these signals to calm themselves in stressful situations.

When Gracie gets to this stage, she shuts down. The only thing you can do is remove her from the situation. This is not a solution to the problem.

The trick is to find something that lowers her anxiety. Then, you can begin to address the issue. In tomorrow’s post, we will discuss some of the various products on the market that claim to reduce your pet’s anxiety. Stay tuned!

Rescue Mommy

We Need Professional Help

When you adopt a dog, obedience training is essential. You can read books. You can surf the Internet for tips and tricks. You can watch TV shows. You can take classes. Please plan to do some sort of basic training with your pet in the manner that works for your schedule and budget. Training helps establish structure and routine for your dog, who wants you to be the leader.

I took the late Dino to an obedience class offered by a local group several years ago, so I knew the basics before Gracie came into our lives. About a month after she came to live with us, I decided that a refresher would be nice but did not want to attend a six-week course. My vet recommended a training facility where he took his dog. They offered private, weekend instruction for as many visits as our schedule (and budget) allowed. We got several great tips. We really liked the instructor.

Lately, we have been considering the addition of a canine companion for Gracie. She just seems to need a buddy. We hesitate, though, because we still have one challenge with Gracie. When she is in an unfamiliar situation, she is frantic and does not respond to training. She has other fear-based behaviors too. Before we add another dog to this environment, we decided to seek professional help.

We reviewed the list of professionals provided by the vet last year. We decided to go to a training facility that specialized in dogs with anxiety issues. The trainer gave us lots of great tips, which we will share in this week’s posts.

We discussed whether or not another dog would help in the situation. The trainer was uncertain. She said the right dog could ease Gracie’s tension – or the new dog could feed off of Gracie’s anxiety and then leave us with two frantic dogs. She recommended that we look for a mellow dog who was not in the working/herding group or a terrier (thereby nixing the cute JRT we spotted at a local rescue group).

In the end, we decided to devote more time to easing Gracie’s anxiety. When the time is right for Gracie, we will look for a companion. Sadly, plenty of dogs are always in need of homes, so we can be patient.

Rescue Mommy & Daddy

The Real Joys & Sorrows of Pet Companions

This week, I have tried to explain the financial commitment required for pet companionship. I would like to end the series by discussing the joys and sorrows of having a pet companion.

You will experience love unlike that you know with humans. A pet genuinely does not care what kind of car your drive, what your job title is, what brand of cell phone you own, et cetera. A dog will be happy to see you, whether you have been gone five minutes or five hours. (Cats are less excited.)

They will listen to you ramble on and on about stupid stuff and generally do not roll their eyes at you. They will sit in your lap while you spend hours typing a silly little blog that no one may ever read. They want to be with you all the time, yet, interestingly, you will not feel the need to have a restraining order issued. They think you are the greatest person in the world.

They can also rip your heart to shreds when they pass. I was truly gutted when I lost Perdy and Dino. The most recent loss was Dino who fought an incredible battle against a nasty cancer for over a year. I cried myself to sleep and cried when I woke up each morning for a solid week after it happened. He was so brave and so sweet. My eyes are welling up as I type this. You never forget your pets.

And, yet, here Gracie sits in my lap. Pets fill a hole in our lives. They also force us to focus on something other than our silly concerns. If you can afford to have a pet and are willing to make the commitment, I urge you to do it.

Maybe your current situation prevents you from bringing a pet into your life right now. Please consider volunteering at a shelter or with a rescue group. They have plenty of pets who could use a hug and a walkie.

And, don’t forget - Rescue Pets Rule!

Rescue Mommy

The Senior Years

As your pet ages, your vet may recommend semi-annual visits. If you can afford it, I recommend it. I also recommend that you ask for a CBC (complete blood count) at least once per year, preferably at each visit. The test will be costly, so ask the price before you request it. Again, it is a personal recommendation from someone who lost two dogs recently to cancer.

The CBC test can sometimes highlight hidden problems with vital organs. Pets do not always exhibit obvious signs of serious illness. If you can catch a disease earlier, you might be able to avoid pain and additional medical bills later.

In addition to more frequent vet visits, you can expect your pet’s health to decline. Even the most well-cared-for pet will have issues. Even before the cancer diagnosis, Perdy had recurring issues with ear infections that resulted in costly medicines and repeated vet visits.

In this stage of your pet’s life, you will see the value of having a good relationship with your vet. You always have options in the care of your beloved companion. A good vet will help you make the right decision for your friend.

Rescue Mommy

The Cost of Pet Ownership - Part II

We are fortunate to live in a community that is committed to pet rescue. Some of the tips offered below may not apply in your area. However, check with local shelters and groups. They may have advice for you.

Food

Feeding your pet can be expensive, depending upon your food selection. Check manufacturers’ websites for coupons and rebate offers.

If you are struggling to feed your pet, talk with your local shelter and rescue groups. In our area, we have several groups that have pet food pantries.

Routine Shots and Vet Visits

It is important to find a good vet for your pet. The ideal vet will help you find ways to provide quality care within your budget. Most vets nowadays understand the dire financial circumstances in which some people find themselves.

That being said, if you simply cannot afford a routine vet exam, the minimum you should do is maintain your pet’s vaccination schedule. In our area, local shelters and rescue groups offer low-cost shot clinics.

If you live near a large university that has a veterinary medicine program, check with the university about free or low-cost clinics. It might be an affordable way to get your pet basic exams until you can get back on your feet financially.

A word or two about vaccinations: In recent years, vets are taking a more conservative approach toward vaccinations. You should discuss with your vet whether or not certain vaccines are needed. Your pet may not be in a high risk category. Rabies vaccines must be given on the recommended schedule, though; it is the law.

Spay/Neuter

In our area, we have a special clinic that performs low-cost spay/neuter. For low income families, it is free. Check with your local shelter or humane society about low-cost spay/neuter. You might be surprised to learn that you have affordable options.

Routine Medicines

Flea medicine is essential. Not only do you want to keep these beasts out of your home, they cause lots of problems for your pet. As mentioned in a previous blog, I use the best-quality medicine I can afford. I have found the cheap stuff is not effective. I also do not apply the medicine year-round. You may not be able to do this, depending upon your situation. It is something to consider.

Your vet will recommend heartworm medicine. It can be very expensive, especially if you have multiple and/or larger pets. The treatment for heartworms can be extremely expensive and is tough for your pet.

Let’s be honest here. I balked at the cost for years, thinking the risk was low. I finally came around, though, when my dogs had issues with whipworms. My vet explained that the heartworm medicine also combats other worms. From that day forward, I kept them on heartworm medicine year-round and never had any issues.

One last note: I do not give Kiki and Maddy heartworm medicine. They are strictly indoor cats. The odds are very, very slim that they will come in contact with mosquitoes. Discuss this decision with your vet, though. You may live in an area where the risk is much greater.

Gear

The key here is to shop around and look in unusual places. Here are some places where I have saved money:

Dollar Tree: I found a collapsible food/water bowl there for, yes, $1. It is not super fancy, but it is sturdy enough. It actually holds water better than the Outward Hound version I reviewed in an earlier blog.

Family Dollar: You can find stainless steel pet bowls for around $3 here. I prefer stainless steel because it is more durable and easier to clean than plastic. I worry about chemicals leaching from plastic into the food, but then I tend to obsess about those things.

Update 8/31/10:  I dropped by Family Dollar a couple of days ago to pick up some bowls for Gracie.  The bowls felt as if they had been coated with oil, to prevent them from rusting.  Yuck!  Before you buy a stainless steel bowl from any store, check it.  Needless to say, I did not buy the bowls.

Tractor Supply: This store carries farm supplies. They also have a decent selection of dog gear. Basic collars and leashes are cheaper here than at PetSmart. Keep that in mind, especially if you have a puppy who will go through several during the first year. If you have this particular chain or one like it in your area, check it out. You might be surprised at what you find.

Wal-Mart. Their selection of pet toys grows each day. Gracie loves a $3 hedgehog I bought there. I also found other deals on their website. They will ship most products free to a store near you.

Lastly, consider making your own pet beds. If you can sew a rectangular pillow case, you can make a pet bed. I look in remnant bins at fabric and craft stores. For stuffing, you can go super cheap and buy a $7 bag of cedar shavings. (You could fill several beds with one bag.) You can also find use poly stuffing or buy a piece of foam.

Tomorrow, we will discuss the senior years with your pets.

Rescue Mommy

The Costs of Pet Ownership - Part I

Before you consider adopting a pet, please review your economic situation. That statement may sound cold. It is not meant that way. Pets can be expensive. It would be irresponsible of me to not start the conversation this way. Let’s review some of the costs:

The Initial Purchase

Purchasing a purebred dog or cat from a responsible breeder is expensive. You could easily spend between $500 to $1,000 and more on the pet. If you go this route, I urge you to do the research and adopt from a responsible breeder. Puppy mills are despicable enterprises. Do not support them!

Please consider adopting a rescued pet. Believe it or not, shelters sometimes have purebred pets surrendered to them. Also, many breeds have rescue groups. If your heart is set on a particular breed, check the Internet for a rescue group.

A rescued pet is actually a bargain. At minimum, they have had their first set of shots. They have been spayed or neutered. Some rescue groups even negotiate with local vets to provide one free vet exam.

For example, when I adopted Gracie, she was up to date on all of her shots. She had been dewormed. She was spayed. The shelter implanted a microchip prior to her leaving. Her “welcome” packet included a coupon for a free grooming visit, a DVD on pet training, and coupons for food. They gave me a week’s supply of her current food, so I could transition her to a new food without tummy troubles.

If I had taken her to my vet for the shots, I estimate the cost at around $120. Having her spayed would have been another $300 to $400. Her adoption fee was $85. Let me repeat that - $85.

The Vet Visits

If you adopt a puppy or kitten, the first year is expensive. Both animals usually require at least two visits to the vet. Depending upon rates in your area, that can cost anywhere from $40 to $60 per visit.

Even if you adopt a puppy or kitten from a shelter, you still may need one visit to the vet for a set of booster shots. Also, please spay/neuter your pet, if it was not already altered before you got it.

If you adopt a pet who is more than one year old, he or she may have all of the required shots. A visit to the vet would still be a good idea so that you can double check for any problems.

The Gear

Here is a list of the basic essentials you will need:

Cats:

• Litter box, litter scoop, and kitty litter.
• Collar and tag.
• Two bowls – one for water, one for food
• Food
• Toys (lest your furniture be the toy)

Dogs:

• Collar, tag, and leash. Harness would be nice but not totally essential.
• Portable crate and bed
• Two bowls – one for water, one for food
• Toys (lest your shoes, furniture, carpet, et cetera, be the toy)
• Piddle Pads (every pet will have an accident; these work better than newspaper)
• Food

Again, this list only shows the bare necessities. You can easily spend a fortune on your pet.  In the next posting, I will discuss ways to save on all of the above.

Rescue Mommy

The Joys of Pet Ownership

It is 2:30 a.m. A fierce thunderstorm is raging outside. Flashes of lightning illuminate the bedroom. Thunder shakes the windows. Gracie is terrified.

She paces back and forth on the bed, panting and shaking. No matter what we do, nothing consoles her. Finally, she dives under the covers and claws her way to the foot of the bed. Occasionally, she pops out from under the covers and resumes her pacing routine on the bed. This little dance continues for the next hour.

It is 6:30 a.m. Kiki barfs a monstrous hairball near the bed. Gracie clamors to get off the bed, wanting to investigate. After many frantic shouts of “NOOOOO!!!” she desists and settles onto the bed.

It is 7:10 a.m. After an unsettled night’s sleep, I stumble into the living room. Gracie shows me that one of the cats has left a revenge poo-poo near her dog bed. Nice.

I wrestle with Gracie for a few minutes as I try to wiggle her into her harness. We go for our morning walk, which lasts almost an hour today. The storm has apparently washed away the pollen and exposed lots of fascinating smells. Also, Gracie must scold the evil dogs across the way for several minutes. She puffs her chest, snorts, and growls in her best Rottie imitation.

So, I ask you: are you truly ready to become a pet owner? The above is just a small glimpse of what you will experience. Yes, pets enrich our lives and bring so much joy. You also have to deal with the dirty, messy stuff, just as you do in your own life.

If you have a cat, kitty litter will be sprinkled throughout your house like magical fairy dust. Thanks to hairballs, cats barf far more than dogs. Projectile vomiting seems to be their favorite way of doing it too. Last weekend, someone decided the living room curtains needed a “stripe.”

If you have a dog, you must provide her with plenty of exercise and potty breaks. A consistent schedule reduces accidents. Are you prepared to stick to that schedule, even after a night I described above?

Pet ownership is a serious commitment. You are responsible for another life. We hardcore pet owners liken it to having children. So many pets are being surrendered because their owners can no longer afford them. I wanted to address the costs and present some ideas that might help you keep your pet.

If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, please review the blog this week. Thank you for listening!

Rescue Mommy & Daddy