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Dog Breed of the Week: Border Collie |
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The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent and agile of all dogs. Sadly, this breed is often misunderstood - some think it is hyperactive, destructive and difficult to train. The truth is quite the opposite. The Border Collie, or BC is among the easiest dogs to train if you know what you are doing. If not, you will have a dog with so much pent up energy, that he must find another way to release it (perhaps by ripping up your couch or running off through the neighborhood). The key to keeping a BC happy is to give him a job to do. "Eager to please" hardly describes the dynamic BC. These dogs are driven! Plus, they make affectionate and loyal companions.
Border Collies are often seen as champion disc dogs, agility competitors and herders. Why? Because the combination of their smarts and fervor is the perfect recipe for success in dog sports. BCs are naturally athletic, agile and brainy. If you get a Border Collie and treat him right, you will have a canine soul-mate for life. BCs bond very closely with their humans, especially if they participate in activities together.
Are you enamored with the amazing Border Collie? Tell us about yours, and submit your photos!
Photo by Doug Pensinger / Getty Images |
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Be Safe for the Fourth |
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Independence Day is this Saturday, and many of us will be celebrating all weekend long. As fun as it may be to spend the holiday with your dog, make sure you are in a dog-friendly environment. There are various summertime hazards that can cause harm to your dog, so be aware of the following:
Fireworks: Besides the obvious danger of physical injury from fireworks, your dog can be very frightened by loud noises. This can cause her to become quite anxious, and she may even run away and become lost. Read what Dr. Janet Crosby, Guide to Veterinary Medicine says about noise phobias.
Dangerous Foods: The Fourth of July was made for grilling, and there will be many tasty morsels around that your dog wants. If guests don't know better than to keep their food to themselves and throw garbage in the appropriate places, your dog could get into something dangerous. Hot dogs, hamburgers and other fatty or rich foods can make your dog sick. Or, your dog could choke on discarded bones (especially chicken bones). There are also many people foods that are poisonous to dogs, so be careful.
Heatstroke: Despite all the precautionary words, dogs are still dying from heatstroke every day. You dog can overheat so much faster that you, so use caution when it's hot outside. Stay near her and watch her closely. If you're in doubt, leave your dog indoors and out of harm's way.
Now you are armed to protect your dog, so have fun this weekend and all summer long. You can still include your dog in your plans if you know how to keep her safe. So, what are your plans this weekend?
Photo by William Thomas Cain/Stringer/Getty Images |
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It's Picture Time |
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We all love looking at pictures of cute critters, right? That's why I'm looking for more photos for the Dogs site. So, if you have some that you'd like to show off, check out the photo submission guidelines. Big or small, old or young, mutt or purebred - all are welcome.
Speaking of photos, I am so pleased to announce that I have been asked to be a judge in the Cutest Cat Picture Contest. Cats Guide Franny Syufy has already gotten tons of great cat photo entries, but time is not up. If you are also a cat lover, why not enter the contest or check out the gallery. The contest ends on July 5th, so you still have time!
Photo © Brygida T. |
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Dog Breed of the Week: West Highland White Terrier |
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The West Highland White Terrier, or "Westie" is a compact dog with a big personality. Full of life and eager to please, this breed makes a great companion. Westies are ideal for people who want a small but active dog. Plus, the breed is considered hypoallergenic because it sheds very little, making it ideal for those who suffer from allergies.
What is your favorite thing about the West Highland White Terrier? Westie lovers, share your stories and photos!
Photo © Randy Son of Robert on flickr |
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Your Dog and MRSA |
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Once upon a time, people thought that dog saliva had healing properties. This old adage probably stemmed from seeing dogs lick their wounds after injury. We now know that this is not the case. In fact, a dog's mouth contains many strains of bacteria. This bacteria generally causes no harm to the skin, but can cause infection if it enters an open wound - usually from a bite. As a vet tech, I have seem many co-workers develop infections from animal bites. I've had one or two bites myself that turned into minor infections. One of the most common of these bacteria is Staphylococcus aureus. Typically, a round of antibiotics will do the trick, though some serious infections require hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics. In short, animal bites are no fun.
Unfortunately, research has shown the emergence of a potentially life-threatening methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections shared between pets and human handlers. MRSA infections are especially difficult to treat because they do not respond to the usual antibiotics. Most common are skin, soft-tissue, and surgical infections. MRSA infections in pets are often acquired from their owners and can may even cycle back and forth between pets and humans. Because they are drug-resistant, minor infections can easily turn into serious conditions like sepsis.
So, what does this all mean to you? First of all there is no need to panic. Second of all, don't banish your dog from the house. MRSA is not easily transmitted through normal contact - it is usually contracted through bites or scratches. Take measures to prevent dog bites, wash your hands frequently and keep your dog healthy. If you do get bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention right away.
Cats can be affected by MRSA infections, too. Read about cats and MRSA from Cats Guide Franny Syufy:Skin Infections Linked to Cat Bite, Scratches
Learn more about MRSA infections from Veterinary Medicine Guide Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM:MRSA and Pets - Infection Connection
Poll: Will the threat of MRSA change the way you interact with your dog?
Not at all, I wouldn't change a thing.
Maybe - I might start taking some more precautions.
Yes, I am very worried and plan to make some major changes.
Other (please leave a comment)
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