Articles
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Guarding desired items can be a normal behavior in dogs, but when it escalates, the safety of both people and animals is compromised. Exercises to prevent and reverse guarding behavior can be beneficial to any dog. Professional guidance is needed for any dog who repeatedly conflicts with people or pets because of guarding behavior.
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Preparing your cat to travel to the vet is one of the most important investments you can make in your cat. Cats should visit the veterinary hospital at least once yearly. The smoother the experience, the less stress for both you and your cat.
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Bringing home a new baby is a major change for everyone in the family—including your dog. It is important to prepare your dog for a new baby, particularly if the dog has not been exposed to children before. Planning ahead can help your dog adjust to the new sights, sounds, smells, and routines that come with an infant. Even the friendliest dog should be supervised when the baby is nearby.
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When families shelter together for extended periods, as occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, pets enjoy nearly constant companionship. As people resume an active lifestyle, pets are suddenly faced with being alone. They may experience distress related to this loss of companionship. Treatment is discussed, such as independence training and an incremental program of safe departures. If your pet shows continued signs of distress related to being alone, it is important to seek professional help to prevent escalation.
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Understanding learning principles and canine communication can set you and your dog up for success. Positive reinforcement can be used to create desired behavioral responses. Behavior modification techniques can be used to treat behavioral concerns such as fear.
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The pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) gene, if mutated, can contribute to increased body fat and body weight and increased food motivation in affected dogs. At this time, this gene mutation has only been found in the Labrador Retriever and Flat-coated Retriever and affects the majority of those working as service dogs. This handout explains how the POMC gene mutation was discovered, how it impacts affected dogs, and how you can support your dog if affected.
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Many dogs love to get out to socialize and exercise with their canine friends and dog parks are their go-to spots for getting together. Proper etiquette, from both you and your pup, will allow everyone to enjoy the park safely and courteously. However, dog parks are not a good fit for all dogs.
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Life with puppies is complicated, and all puppies will sometimes do things their owners find problematic. Using management, planning, supervision, and positive reinforcement for the right behaviors will help puppies succeed, and help owners better enjoy their companions.
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Puppies bring immense joy into the home, but raising a puppy takes time and effort. Be prepared for some adjustments to your family’s routine. This handout provides practical guidelines to help you meet the puppy's needs and provide socialization, supervision, and structure.
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Every puppy will become a dog who needs veterinary care, grooming, and handling. Starting in puppyhood, owners can use positive training techniques to teach their puppies how to accept and enjoy restraint, basic procedures, and home husbandry.