Training Puppy the First Week

Every interaction with your puppy is a training opportunity.

10 Most Frequently Stolen Dog Breeds

#10 Labrador Retriever

As the most common breed of dog in the U.S., Labs are stolen mostly due to their ease of resale to an unsuspecting public. Thieves benefit from this breed’s easygoing nature and willingness to follow commands. Like other dogs of larger size, they are commonly taken from yards or kennels by small gangs under the cover of darkness, but an increasing trend of robbery at gunpoint and burglary is emerging. One factor that threatens recovery is proving to police that the dog has been stolen rather than simply missing, so it is best to have them microchipped. Labs can bring upwards of $1000, making an attractive payday for unscrupulous criminals.

Silent Killer & Curable YOUR DOG NEWS LETTER FROM TUFFS UNIVERSITY

Dogs of any age can be susceptible to hemangiosarcomas - malignant tumors arising from blood vessels - but those middle-aged and over 8 are especially vulnerable. The aggressively spreading cancer may go undetected until the last stages, making it a silent killer. Although they can be found almost anywhere in the body, about 80 percent of all heman giosarcomas begin in the spleen, said John Berg, DVM, chair of the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. The spleen, a large organ in the abdomen, stores blood, among other functions. “Fewer hemangiosarcomas arise in the heart and fewer still in other sites, such as the skin, “he said. “And although not directly heritable, there appears to be a predisposition among purebreds - particularly large breeds such as German Shepherds, Labradors and Golden Retrievers. “Surgery can often cure the form of the disease affecting the skin. In that location, the tumor often doesn’t metastasize, or spread, to distant sites. Otherwise, hemangiosarcomas are rarely curable. As long as expectations are realistic, however, temporary remissions are possible. “Many dogs recover quickly from tumor removal surgery and, although they may only have a short time left, the quality of life during this time can be excellent, “said Dr. Berg, a surgical specialist. Because splenic hemangiosarcomas develop internally, they often give little warning until they become quite advanced. The spleen may suddenly begin bleeding, and blood may enter the abdomen. “A dog may exhibit sudden weakness or he may collapse,”Dr. Berg said. “His gums look pale and his pulse is rapid. He is in danger of going into shock or even dying. If this happens, consider it an emergency and get your dog to a veterinarian.”

Essential Puppy Supplies

Essential Puppy Supplies

Your new puppy will need certain items from the very start. Some are essential for your pup's well-being, while others are quite helpful. Most important items include a leash and collar with identification, food and water bowls, and chew toys. You should also get a nice dog bed and, preferably, a crate or kennel. Some if these items can last as your puppy ages, but bear in mind that most of them will need to be replaced when your puppy grows. Collars may be adjustable to a certain point. A kennel can be purchased in a larger size for the future, but should be blocked off with boxes or other objects to make it the right size for the puppy. Be prepared for the expenses associated with dog ownership so you can budget accordingly. More »

Photo © sanjoyg on flickr

Have you been to the Putnam Lions Memorial Dog Park, located in Putnam, CT?

18 Kennedy Drive
next to the Putnam Farmers Market
Putnam, CT 06260

Operating Hours: 7am to dusk

Managed By: Town of Putnam Parks and Recreation

Days Closed: N/A

Fees: None

Restrooms: None, but there is a porta-potty at the Farmers Market

Park Size: under 1 acre

Type of Park: Fenced

Other Notes: Opened June 14, 2014. This dog park has a separate small dog area, shade, and benches. Be sure to bring water and some to share. Putnam Vet is right on the other side of the road from the dog park.  The parking lot is shared with the Farmer's Market. Please read all rules before going in

DON’T PANIC DOG FLU - YOUR DOG NEWS LETTER FROM TUFFS UNIVERSITY

Heartworm disease

                                                                   (Destiny Dog)

Heartworm disease is a life-threatening parasitic infection that invades the hearts and lungs of dogs. Because heartworms are spread solely by the mosquito, any dog exposed to mosquitos is at risk. Heartworm disease is a relatively common disease in dogs that has been seen everywhere in the United States. Because of this, the American Heartworm Society currently recommends year-round treatment with a heartworm preventative for all dogs in the US regardless of climate. However, dogs in the Southeast are at the highest risk.