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.
***
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.
***

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!
​
For tickets and event information please visit LossandFoundHartford.Eventbrite.com.
​

This year Super Sunday marks the one year anniversary of our dog Dan’s adoption. It seems fitting because he is a pretty super dog. He has endured the worst, he has surmounted every barrier, he has overcome every obstacle and he has triumphed in a way few of us could. He is not unscathed but he is certainly a testament to resilience and forgiveness. He shows us every day what it truly means to love unconditionally

For many years Dan and a number of other dogs lived in horrific conditions. They were abused, neglected, kept in cages in a filthy basement and used for breeding. Dan lived this life for probably about seven years until he was finally rescued. He was seized from his owners along with seven other dogs. They were sick, malnourished and infested with fleas. Dan’s poorly cropped ears were severely infected and untreated. He was clearly in agony.

He spent several months in the city pound where he was treated for his ailments and brought up to date on his vaccinations. His ear infections were recurrent but he gained weight and his fur grew back. He watched as one by one, all of his siblings/friends were adopted and he was passed over time and again. When we learned his story we decided to foster him so he would at least know what it was like to have a loving home and a better life.

We thought it was only temporary but Dan had other ideas. 

From the first day he decided he was right where he wanted to be. He quickly made friends with our other two dogs and tried his best to ingratiate himself with us. He didn’t have to try too hard or for too long because we fell in love with him almost immediately. After three months we made it official.

What is most amazing to us is how loving and trusting he is despite the treatment he endured at the hands of his prior owners.

As I look back on the past year I realize that there are many lessons to be learned from Dan. Here are just a few:

 - Forgive those who have caused you harm. Life is too short to hold grudges.

 - Don’t let the past define you. Embrace new opportunities and make the most of them.

 - Be tolerant of your friends and family. They may be annoying at times but know and appreciate that they love you.
​
 - No matter how badly you have been treated or how much you have been hurt, keep an open heart and let others love           you…..then love them back.

 - When you are given a second chance, make the most of it.
​
 - Never lose hope. Wake up each morning with a positive outlook – today might be the day your life will change forever.

Thank you Dan for all you have taught us and all you continue to teach us.

​We love you!!

Once again we are please to feature a brand new article written by Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet. Jessica has written this article exclusively for loyalpitbulllove.com and we are very grateful,

Today's article focuses on the human-animal bond and the health benefits that come from having a pet.

We hope you will enjoy this wonderful article.

Mutts, Mental Health, and the Positive Connection

(Photo Credit: Pixabay)
 
Most pet owners will tell you definitively that the love and compassion that their pet shows them has gotten them through many a bad day.  Many studies have shown the positive relationship between caring for an animal and improved mental and emotional health, not to mention how cute they can be.  If you’re thinking about getting a dog or cat to help with your mental health, read on to find out exactly why you should get that cutie from the shelter today!
 
Sparky and Stress
 
Studies have shown time and again that pets help to relieve levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in pet owners.  Owning a pet can increase cardiovascular healthy by helping to get owners outside on walks. This can also help lonely owners to interact with other pet owners, reducing their feelings of isolation. 
 
Studies have shown that interacting with a friendly and familiar dog reduces levels of muscular tension, blood pressure, and heart rate, all signs of reduced stress.  These psychological effects are also more quickly seen than using any kind of medicine for the same conditions.  Stress-related disorders are one of the main causes of death in American society, so it makes sense to go pick yourself up that pooch!
 
Major Mental Disorders Helped by Mutts
 
With even the most serious of mental disorders, such as forms of psychosis, pets can serve as a distraction from the pain of a disorder.  Pets can give people a sense of structure and pride in their lives that they might not have elsewhere.  Getting up to feed, groom, and walk their animals has shown to help with all kinds of mental issues, and this allows the patients to find positive interactions in their daily lives. Those with serious mental disorders can find themselves on opposite sides of a chasm from other people in society.  Pets bridge this gap because they have no need to understand what you’re going through. They love you unconditionally, no matter how difficult your day is.  Unconditional love is one of the main benefits of having an animal of any sort.
 
Animals and Addiction Recovery
 
Substance abuse is a major issue facing America these days, and therapy animals have actually been shown to help with recovery and avoiding relapse.  Canine therapy can show improvement in patients’ psychotherapy sessions, allowing them to open up and discuss their feelings and triggers more readily.  Animals can also help recovering addicts get out and get regular exercise, which is highly recommended by most practitioners as a way to help with their recovery. Those who have issues trusting peers can also benefit greatly from equine therapy, where threats, intimidation, or bargaining will get you nowhere.  It allows those in recovery to create new ways of interacting with people and their environments, and creates a more positive self-image. 
 
Whether the animal is fuzzy and cuddly, or even a goldfish, the data say that taking care of any kind of animal helps to decrease feelings of loneliness and depression, as well as anxiety.  Children with autism that have a classroom pet have been reported to be more social and have more positive experiences in the classroom.  Seniors that were given crickets to take care of showed less depression than the control group.  No matter what kind of animal tickles your fancy, the prevailing evidence is that you should adopt a new best friend today!  

​Once again we thank you Jessica for sharing this article with us. We look forward to more. 

Please be sure to check out Jessica's site for some great photos, fun contests and other interesting articles that any pet lover will enjoy.

Today we welcome Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet, a complete website for pet owners that, among many other things, is dedicated to promoting the adoption of shelter pets. Jessica states:

So today we are pleased to present Jessica's article dedicated to helping first-time pet owners.
​
Without further ado, we bring you Jessica's article: 

​Be a Successful First-Time Pet Owner by Choosing the Right Pet, Readying Yourself, and Adapting Your Home

​Photo Credit: JACLOU-DL, Pixabay
 
Falling in love with an animal and impulsively taking her home on the spot is tempting, but it’s not the most responsible thing to do. Being unprepared for pet ownership can lead to life with a pet that develops behavioral issues, and you may eventually have to give it up.
 
To ensure your pet is happy and healthy and that you are the best pet owner you can be, research the type of pet that you should get, what the pet will need, how to create a safe home for it, and how to help your it thrive in as many ways as possible.
 
Considerations to Make When Choosing a Pet
 
Research different types of pets and different breeds ahead of time. Do not make an impulse adoption based on the cuteness of the animal. You should learn everything you can about the pet beforehand, including its temperament, trainability, lifespan, and diet, as well as exercise, space, and grooming needs. It helps to make an informed decision. Some animals and breeds have traits that a new pet owner might not anticipate. For example, border collies and other herding breeds constantly need a job to do, and basenjis like to yodel.
 
Ensure you can handle the financial responsibility of being a pet owner. Different animals (and even different breeds) have varying annual costs. If you are even slightly uncertain about your ability to afford a pet over the next few years, then you should probably hold off on adopting one. If you were to fall on hard times, having a pet could make financial issues even worse and could lead to you surrendering your pet.
 
Readying Yourself and Adapting Your Home
 
Carefully pet-proof your house before bringing your pet home. Take the same precautions with pets as you would with a small child,” suggests the Humane Society. Secure loose or hanging wires, and place medications, chemicals (like antifreeze and insecticides), and remote controls (which contain batteries) out of reach. Some plants, fertilizers, mulch, and wood shavings can be deadly. Avoid rawhide, toys with movable parts, and stuffed animals with plastic eyes. Clear the floor and lower shelves of buttons, coins, sewing needles, rubber bands, dental floss, and thread.
 
Research training techniques before getting a pet. With patience, time, and attention, nearly any pet can be trained, including cats, dogs, birds, horses, and rabbits. And it helps to start early. Start as soon as you bring your pet home, especially if your pet is young. For example, puppies can learn to heel, come, stay, sit, and lay as young as 12 weeks of age. Also, avoid starting any bad habits, such as feeding your pet table food or allowing your pet to sleep in your bed.
 
Other Considerations
 
By exposing your pet to different people, experiences, and sounds, you are helping her to socialize, which can prevent behavioral issues from arising. On the flip side, your pet can help you socialize too, which is just one of the many health benefits of having a pet, especially a dog. You will also see improvements in your stress levels and mood. Dogs in particular provide a great way for you to exercise, since they need to be walked every day. Dog walking helps your dog by letting her use the bathroom, releasing built up energy, staying fit, and meeting new people and dogs. Remember that all pets need some form of exercise, and if you aren’t going to be able to exercise with your pup a few days a week due to your work schedule or other commitments, you may want to consider hiring a dog walker to help you fill in the gaps.
 
Picking the right animal and breed for your lifestyle – including your work hours, house size, and activity level – is important. You also need to carefully consider what is required of pet ownership, including the time commitment and the financial aspects. Making an informed decision about getting a pet and which pet to adopt, readying yourself for pet ownership, and adapting your home for a safe environment are all keys to happiness for you and your pet.
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From all of us at loyalpitbulllove.com we thank you Jessica for this helpful and informative article.  Please be sure to check out  ourbestfriends.pet for some great resources, articles and contests that any pet owner or animal lover is sure to enjoy.