What to Know Before Adopting Your First Dog
Adopting a dog is like handpicking your new best friend. It's also a commitment to love and care for your pet to the best of your ability. Here's what you need to know to give your new four-legged friend the life he deserves.

1. Breeds and Behavior

It's important to adopt a dog that fits your lifestyle. If you adopt a dog based on looks, rather than size and temperament, you risk years of frustration for both you and your pet.
 
Breed is a helpful indicator of a dog's temperament, but you don't have to adopt a purebred dog to find a great personality match. If adopting from a shelter, an adoption counselor can identify dogs that fit your wants. You can also adopt from a foster-based rescue. Since fostered dogs are sheltered in a home environment, foster parents have detailed knowledge of the dogs' traits.

2. Adoption Costs

Adoption costs vary widely depending on where you get your dog. Whether you buy or adopt your dog also influences how much you'll spend on veterinary care during the first year.
 
Buying a puppy from a breeder is the most expensive route. Not only will you spend anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for your dog, but you'll also be responsible for costs associated with spaying and neutering, vaccinating and microchipping your dog. If you make the mistake of purchasing from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, rather than a reputable breeder who completes genetic testing, you also risk buying a dog with expensive health issues. You can learn how to identify problematic breeders at PAWS.
 
Adopting from a rescue can cost anywhere from $100 to $200. However, most shelters and rescue groups spay and neuter pets before adopting them out, saving the new owners hundreds of dollars. Some shelters also include microchips and certain vaccinations in adoption fees.

3. Veterinary Care

The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is just as true for our dogs' health as it is our own. Annual exams, booster vaccinations, dental care and flea, tick and heartworm preventatives are affordable and help prevent a wide range of canine health problems.
 
Emergency veterinary care, on the other hand, is costly. First-time dog owners should create a pet emergency fund before bringing their dog home. An emergency fund lets you avoid the painful situation of forgoing veterinary care because of financial constraints. Buying pet insurance is another way dog owners can prepare for emergency veterinary care. Canine Journal explains pet insurance in depth.

4. Exercise

Your dog will need 30 minutes to two hours of exercise every day, depending on its breed, age and health. Dogs that don't get enough exercise are prone to health and behavioral problems.
 
Walks are the go-to exercise for many dog owners. To walk your dog safely, invest in a non-retractable leash and comfortable harness and avoid walking in extreme weather. Hot pavement and pavement treated with ice melt can injure your dog's paws.

5. Home Preparation and Maintenance

A dog's home should be a comfortable and safe place. In addition to basics like food and water dishes, first-time dog owners should purchase a supportive dog bed and plenty of toys to keep their pet entertained. It's also wise to dog-proof your home to prevent your dog from getting into unwanted spaces. A dog eating something he shouldn't is not only frustrating, it could threaten your pet's health.
 
You'll also want to be prepared to clean up after your pet. At minimum, you'll want a vacuum that can handle pet hair and dander (make sure to read reviews online) and a scooper for cleaning waste out of the yard. Grooming tools like a deshedding brush also help keep your home clean.

6. Special Needs Pets

​Senior dogs and dogs with handicaps make wonderful, loving pets. However, first-time owners must be prepared to meet their pets' unique needs. In addition to purchasing adaptive devices that let your pet live a full life, you should be prepared to manage increased costs associated with your pet's veterinary care. Senior dogs and dogs with special needs may also mean a messier home due to increased shedding or house accidents. Discuss your new dog's need in depth with your adoption counselor and veterinarian so you can create routines for your new pet's care.
 
Responsible dog ownership requires a lot of effort. However, ask any dog owner and they'll tell you that it's work that pays back in spades. By planning ahead before bringing your dog home, you set yourself and your new pet up for success.
 
Image via Unsplash

​We thank Jessica once again for this insightful article.  Our goal here is always to promote shelter adoptions and the more information we have the better prepared we are to make adoption a pleasant experience for humans and pets alike.

Please be sure to visit Jessica's site www.ourbestfriends.pet/ for more great tips for pet lovers.

When I last posted about Mickey’s devastating diagnosis, I also promised to provide periodic updates on his condition. Since that post, almost two months ago, things have been quite eventful for us and so far, the news is positive.

I am happy to report that, at least for now Mickey's health and quality of life remain good. He is taking his treatments well, eating well and enjoying some time with his canine brothers.

We have been very busy trying to enjoy ourselves before winter sets in and we have had many adventures. Aside from our usual pet therapy visits, car rides and trips to the doctor, there have been many special days for us.

There have been trips to the beach,

​A visit to the marina,

​Walks in the park,

Boat rides,

Lunch by the water,

​A blessing of the animals,

Rides in the country with some fun stops along the way,

Mickey has helped select counter tops and paint colors at the home improvement store, visited a couple of vineyards and eaten lots of unhealthy snacks…..normally he wouldn’t but under the circumstances, why not?

We've had lots of visitors and received gifts from near and far (thanks to everyone who has stopped by to visit or sent care packages),

It was fun hanging out with old friends and making some new ones

Dressing up for Halloween and even attending a Halloween party

And, maybe best of all we took a very special three day road trip to Vermont where we saw family members, some he doesn't see often and some he had never met, stayed overnight in a hotel, visited the Cabot Creamery and Dog Mountain and saw lots of farms and even an Animal Sanctuary.

Most recently we enjoyed a quiet Thanksgiving dinner at home with family and friends and we are getting ready for some holiday fun and family get-togethers.

We are taking things a day at a time and trying to stay positive. So far it seems to be working out pretty well for us. We are hoping for an easy winter so we can continue to get out and enjoy our time together.....but if we can't get out we will just enjoy our quiet time at home. As long as he remains happy and strong I can honestly say life is good!

We wish all of you peace, joy and happiness in the upcoming holiday season and always.
​
Until next time……

Once again we are pleased to welcome as guest blogger, Lucy Tate of doggonow.com, a site dedicated to loving and appreciating our pets as well as advocating rescue, fostering and adoption.

Today, Lucy shares with us an article on the very important topic of keeping our families safe from mosquitoes and ticks. Even though summer is over, it is important to follow the protocols for prevention of diseases spread by these predators all throughout the year. This article written exclusively for us tells you how.

Whether it’s hot and dry outside or cool and wet, mosquitoes and ticks are one of the major forms of irritation you’ll experience when you’re spending the day outside. In many regions, they also have the habit of finding their way indoors, where they can disturb your sleep and keep you itching all night long. Not only are their bites aggravating, but they can also cause you to feel unwell and can even spread dangerous diseases. This is why it’s best to prevent their bites by protecting yourself in advance. Here are ways you can get mosquitoes and ticks out of your home while guarding against their bites, as well as tips for what to do when you’ve been bitten.
 
How to Get Mosquitoes and Ticks Out of Your House
 
The first thing you should know is that the most commonly attempted method of removing mosquitoes from your home -- that is, swatting at each one individually -- is by far the least effective. Even mosquito traps aren’t necessarily effective, as different varieties of mosquito react differently to different trapping attempts, making many types of trap completely useless in your area. It’s much easier to prevent them from getting inside your house in the first place.
 
To start, make sure that your house is properly sealed up. Close your windows, make sure there are no gaps in your door frame, and seal cracks in your foundation and roof. Outside, you can also make sure that your property isn’t a breeding ground for mosquitoes. They require standing water for a large part of their life cycle, so by reducing the amount of water around your home, you will take away their ability to fully develop. Keep track of areas where rainwater might pool, fix any leaky faucets, regularly clean and drain your gutters, and poke holes in things like flower pots and buckets that may collect water without having a drainage system.
 
The same is true of ticks; they prefer wet environments as well, so keeping your backyard dry is one of the best ways to prevent them from taking up residence. Of course, if you have tried all of this and you still have a large pest problem in and around your home, it may be time to call in a professional. Look into hiring a pest control service to take care of the problem -- the average national cost of hiring pest control services ranges from between $134 to $198.
 
Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes and Ticks When You’re Outdoors
 
Even if you properly seal your home and dry out your backyard, you will still have to contend with mosquitoes and ticks when you are outside. Mosquitoes require access to exposed skin to be able to bite you, so by wearing long sleeves and pants when you go outside, you will make it less likely that they will be able to successfully bite you. Ticks prefer to live in brushy areas, so try to stay in more sunny regions. If you live in or are going for a hike in the woods, stick to the path to avoid getting too close to where ticks lurk. You can help your dog stay free of pests by keeping their flea and tick medication up to date.
 
Remedies for Mosquito Bites
 
In the event you do suffer from a mosquito or tick bite, it’s good to be prepared. The swelling caused by mosquito bites will generally last a day. Antihistamine creams can help to control the itchiness, but certain natural remedies such as ice packs and baking soda can help just as well.  However, if you start to experience a fever, headache, or general fatigue after getting bitten, you may have picked up a more serious illness and should go to the doctor as soon as possible.
 
Mosquitoes and ticks are irritating, but you don’t have to let their presence affect your enjoyment of the outdoors. By taking the proper precautions in and around your home, you can help safeguard your family and spend your evenings outdoors and itch-free.
 
Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

Lucy, we thank you again for this interesting and informative article. And be sure to take preventative measures for yourself and your pets as well as checking for ticks and signs of illness after outdoor activities.

​Please be sure to visit Lucy's website doggonow.com and read Lucy's own story and more! 

We never want to think it can happen to us. We never want to receive that phone call with the news that can forever change our lives and shatter our hearts.

Being a rather private person, it has taken me a while to share this news but here goes. On August 1st I dropped Mickey off at the veterinary hospital for a fairly routine procedure.  Imagine my shock when several hours later I received a phone call from the surgeon with news I was totally unprepared to hear.  A fairly large mass was discovered attached to Mickey’s carotid artery that was making it difficult for him to breathe. Further testing revealed the mass to be both cancerous and inoperable.
​
The report from the veterinary oncologist was no better. This type of tumor is aggressive, grows quickly and the only solace she could offer was that there was nothing I could have done to change the outcome. In her professional opinion, with treatment Mickey should have a good quality of life for eight to twelve months. If I do nothing, his life expectancy will likely be only a few months. To say this was not the news I hoped for would be an understatement of the greatest magnitude.

Mickey has always been my special dog – my heart dog if you will. He came to me too frightened to even leave the house. He trusted me and only me for a very long time. Despite what the oncologist said, I believed I had failed him. I have never felt so helpless.

For more than seven and a half years he has been my shadow, my Velcro dog, my constant companion, the inspiration for my writing, my friend, my confidant and my teacher. He has taught me what it means to be there for someone you love through good times and bad. He has taught me to look beneath the surface and find the good inside, to never stop believing, to do things you never thought yourself capable of doing. He has taught me it is okay to give your heart even if you are afraid. He has taught me acceptance, patience, tolerance, forgiveness and what it means to love completely and unconditionally.
​
Mickey has overcome many of his initial fears. His extraordinary sensitivity makes him an exemplary therapy dog. Since he received his certification in March, 2017 he has brought great joy to hospital patients, people suffering from dementia, senior citizens in nursing homes and assisted living and special needs students. He is a private nurse to our other two dogs, instinctively knowing when something is ailing them and trying to lick away their pain. While many pets have the ability to make us feel loved and needed and accepted, Mickey’s gifts are truly exceptional. 

As the shock wore off and I began to process the information there were tears and more tears, questions and more questions. Then the reality hit and I knew what I had to do. It was time to dry my tears, take those lemons we were given and make some lemonade.

Now it is my turn to give back to Mickey at least some of what he has given to me. He will receive the best of care and all the love I can possibly give him. I will do right by him to the very best of my ability.There are many unknowns but what I do know is that these next months will be filled with as many outings and adventures as we can squeeze in – ferry boat rides, walks in the park, trips to the beach, wine tastings (just water for him), visits with friends, cheeseburgers, ice cream. We have already begun. Please check back here for periodic updates. 

We thank you for your support and hope you will keep us in your thoughts. We ask that you give your loved ones extra hugs and kisses today and every day. Take time for your family and friends. Appreciate the little things. Never take a single minute for granted. Make lasting memories. Love like there is no tomorrow. Never lose sight of what is important and savor every moment like a sweet glass of lemonade on a peaceful summer day.
​
Love to all. Sue and Mickey

Once again, we are delighted to welcome guest blogger Lucy Tate from doggonow.com. Lucy not only runs the site but she is also a rescuer. She has fostered many dogs in her home and is a dedicated advocate for shelter pets.If you haven't already, please be sure to check out the site. You will not be disappointed.

Today, Lucy has written an article we can all appreciate. We all look forward to our vacation time but often we find it difficult to bring our pets along with us when we travel. As you will see, this does not have to be the case. There are many available options for pet owners who want to bring their pets along for the trip.Here are some to consider.

As dog owners, some of the best adventures we can have is with our furry buddies. Not only are they fantastic travel companions, dogs are great motivators when it comes to working out. Follow these tips to keep fit with your dog and make your next vacation a blast.
 
Choosing a Destination
 
If you are planning to go traveling and want to bring your pooch along, it's good to know what is best for both of you to thrive together. Active travelers have plenty of options to keep themselves and their furry friends fit and healthy. For example, you could take your canine paddle camping or trek into a canyon.
 
When choosing a destination, think about your dog's limitations. Would they be comfortable on a bike trail? Are they fit enough to be prepped for a trip into the mountains? If you do not want to venture too far into the wilds but still want to get in touch with nature, you have alternative choices available to you. You could take your pup to a magical camping site run by Disney World or even take them surfing at Del Mar Dog Beach in California.
 
Visiting Unfamiliar Dog Parks
 
On your travels, you may find plenty of dog parks to explore. These can be wonderful places to have fun in, but they are still unfamiliar to both of you. Research any parks before visiting, as it's good to know their rules and layout. When it comes to safety, make sure your companion is properly vaccinated and has products designed to protect against parasites. You never know what might be lurking in the grass of a new park. If you have not already, microchip your canine and ensure they have secure ID tags. Your friend is likely going to encounter many new dogs. They may not get along with all of them, so if a fight does occur, do not get in the way. Instead, find ways to de-escalate the tension through distraction so that you do not sustain any injuries.
 
Practice Travel-Friendly Workouts
 
Going some place new is the perfect excuse to keep on foot, whether through hiking or sightseeing. Look into your itinerary to see what could aid your workout, like availing of park gym equipment. Core workouts can be practiced anywhere, so don't be afraid to incorporate squats, lunges, and crunches into your travel routines. Remember, dogs are excellent motivators, and having them by your side can not only keep you going but get you discovering new places, too! You have options when it comes to sharing a good workout, but it may be through trial and error as your canine becomes familiar with different exercises. Hiking, hill climbing, and the staple jog are all fantastic choices, and basic workouts could be performed while your dog waits patiently or plays next to a park bench.
 
Have the Right Gear
 
With the right equipment, you can keep fit while on the go and do so anywhere. There are portable variations of kettlebells, while ankle weights and water-filled sandbags can be valuable additions to your travels, too. At the very least, bring resistance bands and a jump rope for muscle work and cardio, as they are light enough to put in the backseat or a carry-on. Pack appropriate clothing, from basics like sneakers and shorts to protective gear for trips into challenging terrain. Make sure that your companion has proper gear, as well. Aid hikes and other strenuous activity with doggie boots, a coat if you anticipate low temperatures, or a cooling collar to prevent overheating. If you are considering heading out at night, a safety light is a prudent addition. Bowls should be collapsible, while a first-aid kit is essential.
 
Bringing your dog along on your travels can give you fantastic opportunities to stay active and engaged. Find a destination that is perfect for the both of you, make sure to pack all the right equipment, and remember that some workouts can be done just about anywhere. You do not need to put staying fit on hold, especially when you have the perfect companion!
 
Image Courtesy of Pixabay.com

Thank you so much Lucy for this well thought out, interesting and informative article. It is always a pleasure to share your work and your insights.

Today we welcome Tyler Evans. Tyler is the creator and head blogger at dogzasters.com, a funny, entertaining and informative site for dog lovers everywhere. Tyler has been kind enough to write a special article just for us here at loyalpitbulllove.com. We hope you will enjoy it as much as we did! 

Photo via Pexels
 
How to Prevent Frustrating Doggie Disasters in Your Home 
​
It’s no secret that dogs make our lives better. They're always thrilled when we come home, they force us to get outside when we're feeling lazy, and they continuously provide us with unconditional love. However, dogs can also cause various disasters in the home, from bathroom accidents to torn-up clothing and furniture. Fortunately, you can take certain measures to ensure your pet doesn't get into trouble.
 
Train Them Properly 
One of the most common reasons that dogs misbehave is because they haven't been properly trained. House training is especially important if you want to avoid the headache of constantly cleaning your pet's accidents off the floor. Instead of punishing your dog for eliminating indoors, reward them when they get it right. You should also supervise your new pet closely by limiting them to certain areas of the house. Teach them other key behaviors such as “sit,” “come,” and “leave it.” This will help your dog learn that certain items are off-limits and they are only allowed to chew on their own toys.
 
Make Sure They Get Regular Exercise 
Like humans, dogs need exercise to stay healthy and fit. Regular activity can improve their mental health and reduce behaviors caused by anxiety and boredom. Make sure your dog gets their recommended amount of exercise per day or else they'll have boundless energy to fuel household destruction. The exercise requirements vary by breed, age, and their physical fitness, so talk to your vet about tailoring exercise to your specific pet. In general, herding and sporting dogs need over an hour of high-intensity daily exercise, while smaller breeds may be fine with a regular, leisurely walk.
 
Keep Them Entertained 
Boredom is a common and preventable cause of misbehavior in dogs. According to Chewy, you should watch for the following signs of boredom in your dog:
 
●     Chewing items other than their toys
●     Excessive digging in the yard
●     Barking for attention
●     Getting into mischief, such as poking their nose in the trash can
●     Pacing around the house
 
If you notice that your dog seems to be suffering from boredom, try to keep them entertained with toys and games. Buy some hard, rubber dog toys that can be stuffed with treats to keep your dog occupied and stimulated. This can even improve your dog's cognition as they use their problem-solving skills. Play with your dog whenever possible, throwing balls for them to fetch or engaging them in a tug of war. You can even create a fun agility course in your backyard to provide both mental stimulation and exercise.
 
Pet-Proof Your Home 
Your dog is most likely to get into trouble when they’re home alone, so make sure you pet-proof your house before going out to ensure your pet’s safety and the safety of your possessions. First, make sure food is kept in closed containers and stored in cupboards where your dog cannot access it. Keep your garbage in a container with a heavy lid. You’ll also want to move electrical cords out of reach in case your pet is a chewer. While you’re at it, remove other small items off the floor, including children’s toys and dirty laundry. Finally, makes sure all of your houseplants are safe for dogs since some can be toxic. You can take advantage of baby gates and closed doors to limit the rooms your pet has access to while you're away.
 
Ease Separation Anxiety When You Leave 
Separation anxiety describes the stress that some dogs experience when their owners leave. This can cause them to engage in negative behaviors such as creating messes or barking. When you first get your pet, teach them to get used to your absence by leaving them alone for short periods of time. Make sure they have a comfortable area with chew toys and water. You can even turn on the radio to provide comfort and muffle distressing sounds from outside.
 
No matter how much you love your dog, no one wants to come home to a huge mess. Your dogs want to please you, so make sure they know what you expect of them. Keeping your pets out of trouble and ensuring their happiness while you're away will help you bond and create a strong relationship of mutual respect.

                                             **************
Again we thank Tyler for taking the time to write this great article for us and be sure to check out all the great stuff on Tyler's site, dogzasters.com! 

Once again we are pleased to welcome Lucy Tate of doggonow.com as our guest. Lucy his written another excellent article just for us!

If you are like me, you try to be a good neighbor and, in a perfect world, your neighbors would all do the same. Unfortunately, it is not a perfect world and sometimes our neighbors do not appreciate our efforts to be responsible pet owners or do not understand what is normal behavior for dogs and how they might be contributing to what they perceive to be a problem.

While we cannot change our neighbors or compel them to accept our dogs, we can do our best to try to maintain good relationships. In this article you will find some great tips on how you can keep the peace with your neighbors, even if they do not necessarily like your dogs (or you)!

So here's Lucy with a few tips to guide you.

5 Dog Etiquette Tips for Being a Conscientious Neighbor
 
It takes more than just love and affection to care for a dog. You are the sole person responsible for your pup, and that means how they act around others, including your neighbors. You want to make sure that your dog is friendly and approachable, and that you keep your neighbor’s needs in mind. There are certain tips you can follow that will ensure you’re being a conscientious neighbor and dog owner.
 
Install a fence in your backyard
 
Part of being a good neighbor is to make sure your dog doesn’t go into your neighbor’s yard. Installing a fence in your yard will help prevent your dog from bothering your neighbors. A fence will also keep your dog safe while they enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. How much will this run you? According to HomeAdvisor, it costs around $1,643 - $3,857 to install a fence.
 
Clean up after your pup
 
This is probably the #1 golden rule about being a dog owner. Whether it’s in your backyard or on a sidewalk in the neighborhood, it’s important to pick up your dog’s waste. When dog waste is left out, it can harbor disease that can affect other pets. Picking up after your dog is the courteous thing to do, and it makes sure that no one else steps in your pet’s waste. It also prevents any foul smells wafting around the neighborhood. This will ensure your neighbors don’t get angry with you and your pup.
 
Provide identification
 
Your dog should always have a collar on with current identification. Their tag should include their name, as well as your address and phone number. Proper I.D. can help you find your dog in case he gets out of your home and becomes lost. All it takes is a friend to come over and leave your front door open, and there goes your dog. If your dog is found wandering the streets, someone will easily be able to visit your home or call your phone and bring your dog home.
 
Prevent excessive barking
 
One of the worst things you can do as a neighbor is to let your dog bark all night and keep your neighbors up. There are things you can do that will prevent your dog from nuisance barking, including proper training and dedication. Find out what’s causing your dog’s barking and see if you can control it. Your dog needs a lot of energy to bark all night, so try taking him on long walks to wear him out so he sleeps soundly at night.
 
Go on walks
 
Dogs are a lot of work. One of the biggest things a dog requires is frequent walks to stay healthy and fit. Dogs have so much energy and they need to be outdoors to socialize with other dogs. If you work long hours and don’t have the time to take your dog out on walks multiple times a day, you can hire a professional dog walker. You can usually find someone to take your dog out for a reasonable fee, make sure they are trained to handle any kind of breed. This will put your mind at ease while you’re away from home.
 
When you choose to become a dog owner, you’re committing for the long haul. You want to make sure you’re the best possible pup parent, as well as neighbor. Keep these tips in mind when you’re raising your pup, and you will be known for being responsible and caring.
 
Photo: Unsplash
                                                              ******

Once again thank you Lucy for your insight and be sure to visit Lucy's site doggonow.com where you will find a wealth of information to help pets and their owners.

Each year on this day, June 19, we mark the passing of our beloved Oscar who left us six years ago.
​
While all dogs are special, Oscar was truly one of a kind. He was not my first rescue dog but he was my first shelter dog.  I once came across this quote and it certainly applies to Oscar:

On August 1, 1998, we went to the shelter with no plans to take a dog home but, call it karma, call it fate, call it whatever you’d like – Oscar had been surrendered just hours before we arrived and, that day he chose us to be his family.

He was only eight months old but we were his third home. Because he was a shelter dog, we never knew why no one seemed to want him - he really was the perfect dog. Yes, he was strong and nobody had bothered to train him but he was very smart and did not have a mean bone in his body. All he needed was a chance.

He loved to run, play snow football and pull sleds. He became the kids’ sports team mascot – we were even told that until Oscar was at a game, something seemed to be missing and when he arrived everything seemed right again. He learned many things including how to sing for car rides, how to bring his empty yogurt cup to the trash when he was finished and how to use “the password” to enter the house after his walks.
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Not only did Oscar learn but he was also a great teacher. Among his many lessons, he showed us how to live each day with unbridled joy, how to appreciate the little things and how to love with our whole hearts.

In his old age, he welcomed an unwanted bunny and another shelter dog who was fearful and shy and he became their friends. Even when he was no longer able to walk he continued to teach. It was then that he taught us how to be brave, to overcome obstacles and not let life’s challenges get you down. And when it was time to let him go, he let us know that he was okay with it.
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I honestly believe that Oscar would not have wanted us to grieve for him. He was ready to move on and I know that wherever he is now, he is watching over us and knows he has not been forgotten by those who loved him here on earth. And while we can no longer see him, we still feel him in our hearts and his memory will live on with us always.

Happy June everyone! 

Spring is in full swing and its a great time to get out and walk and engage in other outdoor activities. It is also a good time to bring awareness to an issue that is prevalent in humans and pets alike - the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

Today we are fortunate to have Lucy Tate of doggonow.com, an outstanding website dedicated to providing helpful information for all animal lovers particularly regarding the subjects of animal rescue and need for foster families. Lucy has been kind enough to write an article exclusively for us here at loyalpitbulllove.com. The following article contains a comprehensive guide for keeping your pets at a healthy weight and, you will find many of the tips in the article useful for humans as well. 

So, here you go......enjoy!!

Image via Pexels

Canine Obesity in America

Americans love our food and we love our dogs. It’s no surprise that those two loves also get along-- but what’s the cost? The obesity epidemic plaguing the United States is now coming for our pets. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, roughly 53 percent of dogs are overweight or obese. When pets have an excess of body fat, it puts them at risk for various health issues:

• Diabetes
  
• Joint problems
  
• Heart disease
  
• Increased blood pressure
  
• Respiratory issues
  
• Heat intolerance
  
• Liver failure
  
• Digestive disorders
  
• Decreased immune function
  
• Skin and coat issues
  
• Cancer and tumors
  
• Premature death
  

Controlling Your Pet’s Weight
Being proactive regarding your pup’s weight control can help keep him healthy and happy. Talk to your vet about the ideal weight for his breed or at the very least a breed similar in size. If he or she is already in a healthy range, your work is mostly upkeep and providing an active lifestyle for your dog. If your pup is already overweight, your vet should be able to give you recommendations on low calorie food options and how to safely incorporate exercise into your dog’s schedule.
Diet
There are a lot of opinions when it comes to what dogs should eat. Some people really adhere to the whole raw food concept. Others prefer the simplicity and convenience of kibble. Whatever fits into your budget and schedule is what is right for you.
Some general things to keep in mind regarding your dog’s diet:

• Always have clean water available. Your dog should drink about an ounce of water per pound of body weight every day.
  
  
• Avoid free-feeding. Your average dog loves food so much he can’t control himself and stop overeating. Provide your pup with a regular feeding schedule with appropriate portion sizes to keep weight under control.
  
  
• Know what foods your dog can eat and what to avoid. Always pay attention to his reactions and behaviors after trying a new food. If he seems sick or shows signs of an upset stomach, eliminate that food from his diet. Dogs tend to do best with a consistent and safe diet without too much variation, anyways.
  

Exercise
No matter how much of a couch potato your dog is, he needs regular exercise for both his physical and mental wellbeing. You can’t just let your pup in the backyard and expect that to be enough, either. A dog can spend a surprising amount of time just sniffing around-- sometimes when it comes to real physical activity, you have to take the lead.
Walking daily is the most obvious solution to your dog’s exercise dilemma. Walking your dog allows him to follow his instincts and explore the various sights, sounds, and-- most importantly-- smells around the neighborhood. Make it a priority to break out the leash, check here for some good ones, at least once a day to go for a leisurely stroll.
Another great way to encourage exercise is by taking a trip to the dog park. Dog parks provide ample space where your pup can run off leash and play with other canines. When visiting a dog park, stay alert at all times, and keep these safety tips in mind. As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to pick up after his business when in public. It is also important to watch for signs of aggressiveness both from other dogs and your own. Look for signs of sickness and keep your dog away from possibly infections pups to keep him healthy.
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American dogs are facing the same struggles with obesity as American humans. If your pup is overweight or obeses, it puts him at risk for various health problems including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Talk with your vet about an appropriate weight range for your dog and the best diet for his needs. Be sure to provide plenty of fresh water and exercise to promote health and happiness in your dog’s life.
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Thank you Lucy for creating this for us.

Hope everyone reading this enjoyed the article as much as we did and also found some useful tips to incorporate into your daily routine with your dogs.

Be sure to check out doggonow.com too!

You will laugh. You will cry. You will cheer! While there are many outstanding films that deal with animals and rescue, “Loss and Found” by award winning Hollywood filmmaker, Jon Mancinetti of Mancinetti Pictures is quite unlike others that have been done previously..

“Loss and Found” is a comedy and a coming of age story about one young man’s journey into rescue and how saving one dog motivated him to save more.  At the same time, the film also touches upon some very serious issues surrounding rescue dogs – shelter overcrowding, misconceptions, breed discrimination and, most importantly, the need for individuals and families to open their homes and hearts to homeless animals through fostering and adoption.

I first became acquainted with Jon Mancinetti just over a year ago when “Loss and Found” was just a vision. His aspirations were documented on this website here. Now the film is a reality and Mancinetti is taking it on the road with the goal of showing it at numerous film festivals around the country, while also doing fundraising events for local rescues.

One of the scheduled screenings happens to be a benefit for an organization that is near to my own heart, Furry Friends Foster and Rescue, Inc. On April 15th at 1:00 PM the rescue will be hosting a benefit screening of “Loss and Found” at the Spotlight Theatres in Hartford, CT, and could not be more excited.

As one of the lucky few who was chosen to view the film in a private screening, the film really resonated with me as a rescuer. It showed, in a non-judgmental way, many of the things we see in rescue on a day-to-day basis. We see how healthy, adoptable dogs are often overlooked. We see the mistaken beliefs that shelter dogs are somehow “flawed.” We see how some are never given the chance to adjust to life in a home or learn what it means to be part of a family. And we see what happens when someone takes the time to care.

Perhaps even more importantly, this film is a must-see for anyone who is interested in becoming more involved in helping homeless animals. It will certainly open your eyes to the plight of shelter dogs and inspire you to join the fight to save them. "Loss and Found" also focuses on the bond that develops between humans and their pets and how when we rescue, we too are rescued. By showing the film in our area, Mancinetti hopes to “help spread awareness and motivate more people in the area to foster.”

“Loss and Found” recently won the Audience Choice Award at the Huntington Beach Film Festival. It has been shown in California, Mississippi and Ohio. More than a dozen additional screenings are already scheduled in locations throughout the country during the spring months and into the summer.

Although “Loss and Found” will be touring over the next months, it will only be available for viewing in select theaters. For those of you in or near Connecticut, this may be your only chance to see this wonderful film.

Mancinetti says, “This is my first time coming to Hartford. I am excited to not only see the area but also to show my film and continue to spread awareness. My hope is that once people see the impact that fostering had on my life, it might motivate them to do the same.”

That is our hope as well!
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For tickets and event information please visit LossandFoundHartford.Eventbrite.com.
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