Bully Sticks

Are you feeding your Dog…Poison?

It’s seems like every month there is a new Pet Food Scare.. Since last fall the top scare has been Peanut Butter.

I’m very concerned that it has taken the FDA literally months to recall some of these products and wonder how many pets and humans have needlessly been ill because of the FDA’s failure.

To their credit they now have the following widget that will update any new recalls.

My advice is for dog owners to stop feeding anything with peanut butter and only feed your pooch all natural dog treats.

The Kids Dog Contract

Is your child begging and pleading for a new puppy?

As parents, we know how this usually turns out.  They get the puppy, spend a couple of days playing with the puppy…then we get to train the puppy, clean up after the puppy, and care for the puppy.

To help even the odds that your child might actually fulfill his promise to care for your new dog, try getting them to sign a contract and post it on the refrigerator as a reminder.

Here’s a sample:

I ________________, promise to care for our new dog, and promise to love him and treat him with kindness.  I also promise to do the following:

1. Take him for walks everyday
2. Play with him
3. Train him and be his teacher.  I will teach him to play nice with others, to go potty outside, and not to chew on stuff.
4. I will make sure he has fresh water at all times
5. I will feed him and keep his food and water bowls clean
6. I will give him a warm safe place to sleep
7. I will help keep him clean and well groomed
8. I will give him only healthy all natural dog treats

Signature: _______________________________________

Date: _______________________________

As parents you should be responsible to see that your new pet is also spayed/neutered and receives proper veterinary care.

The History and Care of the Pug

Pugs are one of the most lovable and comical of all the dog breeds. They are also one of the oldest breeds.

And like all dogs…. pugs love bully sticks

Warning! PetSmart Dog Treats Recall

PetSmart has announced a recall of 7 dog biscuit products containing peanut butter paste. The recall includes products under the Great Choice brand name which may have been contaminated with Salmonella. There have not been any cases involving pets to date but Petsmart is taking precautionary measures in light of the recent salmonella typhimurium outbreak that has sickened 486 people and killed six.

The outbreak has been traced products manufactured by the Peanut Corp. of America in its Blakely, Georgia, plant.

Although the risk to pets in minimal, Salmonella can potentially be found on the surface of dog biscuits and be a danger to humans that handle the biscuits. Children should always wash their hands when handling dog bones.

For more information check out Petsmarts Recall Site. 

A game you should NEVER play with your dog

I spotted this video on the internet and felt it was important to tell you why you should never play the balloon game with your dogs. I know it looks all cute and fun but the fact is rubber balloons can be deadly if swallowed.

There are much better ways to keep your pups entertained. Give them safe dog toys to play with, and bully sticks to keep them healthy and occupied.

Puppy Care 101 - Part Three

This is the final video from our favorite English Bulldog. This video covers the health and common behaviors of your new puppy.

Taking your new puppy for regular Veterinarian visits is essential to your puppies long-term health.

This video also covers the basics of puppy training and housebreaking your new dog.

Remember to only feed quality puppy food and all natural dog treats.

Puppy Care 101 - Part Two

Part two of three from our favorite English Bulldog. I highly recommend you view these videos with your kids before bringing home a new puppy. This one is packed with all the information you will need for caring for your puppy on his first day, including what accessories you need, best dog food (and don’t forget the all natural dog treats), collars beds and more.

You may want to pay close attention to the Puppy Care Top Ten.

Puppy Care 101 - Part one

Love this super cute super simple video on getting a puppy. Some great advice from a talking dog cartoon that will help you decide whether a puppy will be right for your family.

So cute I just want to reach through the screen and give him a bully stick.

Choosing the right Puppy

Your stocked up on puppy food, all natural dog treats and puppy training pads, the kids are excited to finally have convinced you, your spouse has reluctantly agreed, so off you go …. in search of the perfect puppy to join your family.

But wait! Before you rush off to the pet store, you need to do a bit of research and a lot more thinking. Ask yourself these questions.

1. Do I want a rough and tumble active dog? or, a lap dog?
2. Would my kids be too much for a little dog to handle?
3. Big dog or little dog?
4. Inside dog or outside dog?
5. Do I need a dog that gets along well with other pets? Cats?
6. Do I need a dog that’s protective? Or, one that will love everyone that comes to the house?

Take time to learn some of the Breed traits before making your choice. Once you’ve narrowed down the breed, it’s time to visit some breeders in search of the perfect puppy.

Handy tips for giving your dog medicine

Most pets are going to need some type of medication during their lifetimes and getting your pet to take that medication can be a real burden unless you know a few of these tricks. Having a bully stick handy as a reward is another great way to turn a potentially bad experience into a positive one.