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Bringing Home a Friend for Fido

by on May 6, 2013

Thinking of bringing a second dog into your family? There are a number of benefits in doing so. Whether your family dog is young or old, introducing a canine companion can help with a wide range of health and emotional issues.

  • Separation Anxiety: Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety when their owner leaves for extended periods of time. A second canine can help alleviate the destructive habits associated with the anxiety, allowing both dogs to entertain one another and offer a sense of companionship they are familiar with in a pack environment.
  • Revitalize an Older Dog: If your dog is aging, bringing home a younger dog can help increase the activity in your household. This in turn could potentially help extend your senior dog’s lifespan and overall disposition. For the pet owner, a younger dog can help with the healing after an elderly dog’s passing.
  • Easier Training: Many of the concerns had surrounding puppy training are erased when there is already a well-trained dog in the home. Dogs learn more quickly from one of their own, as they can look to him or her as an example.

Introducing a second pup to your family should be done with the same amount of dedication and thoughtfulness as bringing home your first. With patience, training and care, two dogs can double the happiness, support and love a pet brings.

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A Dog As Your New Roommate

by on March 27, 2013

Some apartment residents find themselves having reservations surrounding the thought of sharing their rented space with a dog. From neighbors to pet fees and restrictions, the thought of having a four-legged roommate can be intimidating. While certain breeds work better with the unique challenges apartments deliver, bringing a dog home doesn’t have to be ruled out because of an owner’s living arrangement.

  • The first step to take when thinking of bringing a pup home is to check in with your apartment complex’s office staff. More often than not, apartment complexes have restrictions set for specific breeds, as well as weight limitations
  • Prior to moving your newest addition in, make sure your apartment is pet friendly and prepped for welcoming your dog home. Have valuables and items that may offer temptation (shoes, cords, etc) hidden away and out of your pup’s reach. Allow your pet to become slowly accustomed to the new surroundings, and try to leave for shorter periods of time during the adjustment period.
  • Not everyone is an immediate fan of a new pooch. When spending time outside, introduce your neighbors to your dog and explain that he or she is getting acclimated to the new home. Learn who may have some fear associated with a dog in their immediate area, and teach your pup to stay close by as you walk.
  • Create a daily routine for your dog and stick to it. Staying consistent with feeding and outdoor times helps teach your pet when to expect to use the bathroom or get exercise. Apartments usually don’t offer the leisure of a fenced-in yard or doggie-door, so establishing a routine is vital to combating accidents.

Sharing a small space doesn’t have to be difficult. With proper planning and patience, a four-legged roommate can be the most enjoyable of them all!

http://rent.sheaapartments.com/SheaApartmentscom/bid/53215/HOW-TO-TAKE-CARE-OF-A-DOG-IN-AN-APARTMENT

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Communication Is Key

by on March 11, 2013

Similar to humans, tone and delivery are as important as what is being said when speaking to your dog. Commands, praise and behavioral corrections should all be delivered differently and dependent on the desired result.

We’ve gathered a few tips for helping pet owners better communicate with their pups:

  • Commands: To gain your dog’s undivided attention, commands should be preceded by the dog’s name. Speak in a confident, strong and firm tone. Using repetition will allow your pet to understand exactly what is being asked of them. Make sure to always reward your pet for listening.
  • Corrections: When correcting a dog, pet owners can differentiate the pet’s negative behavior from what they’ve asked in the command by using a higher-pitched tone. If your pet does not follow the command initially, follow up with an instructive reprimand. For example, if Spot does not sit after asked to, say “NO, sit”. If Spot is still unresponsive, instruct him into the sitting position.
  • Praise: Always show your excitement when praising your pup. Dogs strive to please their owners, and having an exuberant tone tells your dog that they have achieved just that.

The key to all forms of communication with your dog is consistency. Whether your words or tones, it could be more difficult for the dog to understand the commands being asked if words such as “off” and “down” are interchanged. Lastly, keep chatter positive for your pooch. You two are building a lasting relationship, so make it a positive, fun one.

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Can Cats and Allergies Live in Harmony?

by on February 21, 2013

If you or a loved one is allergic to cats, you know that the reaction is one not to be taken lightly. If a cat owner has friends or loved ones with feline allergies in their home, what are they to do?

Here are a few of ways to improve the situation and help reduce allergens for a peaceful home:

  • Clean: This may seem obvious, but a thorough cleaning of fabrics and surfaces throughout the home can greatly reduce allergens caused from cat fur. Carpets are one of the worst offenders when it comes to trapping cat dander, so vacuuming often can help eliminate sneezing and itchy eyes.
  • Groom: Regular bathing and grooming can help reduce shedding and the overall amount of dander in the home. Using cat shampoo can also remove saliva on the fur, which is a strong offender of allergies.
  • Air Purifier: Adding an air purifier to your home can help remove the allergens from the air. Having one located in the most frequented room will work best when fighting allergy symptoms.

Regular hand washing with soap and warm water will help stop allergens from transferring from furniture and surfaces to the face. With a little dedication to both your cat and your loved one’s allergies, the two can live in a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

 

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The Scoop On Pet Adoption

by on January 31, 2013

Thinking of adopting a four-legged friend for your family? There are plenty of animal rescues throughout the nation – small and large – that are filled with dogs and cats in need. If you are considering adoption, think about these questions prior to heading to your local rescue:

  • What size pet will work best with your lifestyle? If you are looking for a dog and live in a smaller apartment, a large breed such as a Shepherd or a Labrador may not work as well as a smaller breed.
  • Are you willing to invest in medical assistance? There are a number of pets left in shelters due to health conditions that may require a decent amount of veterinary aid. Many of these health issues can be treated but require someone who is dedicated to the cause.
  • Do you have patience? This question should be addressed when thinking of bringing a pet into your home, whether adopted or not. Depending on the personality of a sheltered pet, often their previous upbringing can determine how quickly a cat or dog responds to training. Have patience and know that a well-behaved pet doesn’t happen overnight.
  • Most importantly, are you ready to make a long-term commitment? So many of the four-legged creatures found in shelters are there because a previous owner wasn’t up to the task. Before you decide to adopt, realize what responsibilities will come with your new companion.

Visit Petfinder.com to locate an animal rescue in your area. While adopting a dog or cat may have initial challenges, knowing you are providing a forever home to an animal in need is a reward in itself. Happy adopting!

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Pet Tales: Lucy Belle Undergoes Change to Precise Pet Food and Sees Improvement in Skin and Coat!

by on January 28, 2013

Here at Precise, we want to hear from our community. Our Pet Tales blog posts come directly from customers who have submitted stories about their experience with Precise products. Click here to share your own story.

Nanette Smith writes:

I wanted to share my experience with Precise all-natural dog food. For the last two years, all of my dogs have been on Precise Chicken Meal & Rice food, but one of my dogs has benefited from it the most. Since using the Chicken Meal & Rice formula, I have noticed a decrease in the shedding in all of my dogs. I own three Chihuahuas and two Dobermans. Of my dogs, Lucy Belle (my blue Dobie) has improved the most by eating this food.

 When we got her as a pup, we did not know anything about Dobermans. It was only after we brought her home that we discovered that blue Dobermans tend to have terrible skin issues and coat problems. We had her on a veterinarian-recommended food formula for her first year, switching to Precise after she turned a year old. She will be three years old this March and we couldn’t be happier with the results of this food. When our vet asked us what we are doing for her, the only explanation we had was the switch in the food choice. He told us not to change a thing, and that she is the most beautiful blue Dobie he has ever seen.

Thank you, Nanette! We are thrilled to hear that all five pups are doing well and enjoying Precise!

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Retailer Spotlight: The Barker Shop

by on January 22, 2013

In our Retailer Spotlight blog posts, our team will take a closer look into some of the outstanding retailers across the country that sell Precise. We love all of our retailers and the services they bring to our customers!

Located in La Grange, Ill., The Barker Shop is the perfect dog “barber shop” – offering not only grooming services, but also training courses, day care, pet photography, boarding, and retail. Owner Kathy Deets focuses her shop’s efforts on the needs of her customers and her passionate love for all animals, which reflects in the shop’s overall experience.

Since the shop’s opening in 2004, The Barker Shop hires only the most qualified groomers to service their K-9 clients. A variety of grooming techniques are available, including competition cut, play cut, trim and hand stripping.

The Barker Shop’s daycare service is convenient for any working dog owner. During doggie daycare, all dogs have the opportunity to engage in consistent exercise and social time. The shop also offers diverse training courses including puppy, basic, advanced and specialty classes.

A proud retailer and supporter of Precise Pet Products, The Barker Shop understands the value of high-quality pet food. It appreciates the use of probiotics and grain free ingredients within the Precise product lines. The Barker Shop wants only the best for its dogs and their bellies.

For more information about The Barker Shop and the services provided, please visit the shop’s website.

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Dog Walking After Dusk

by on January 15, 2013

Walks are a part of most dog owner’s everyday routine, but taking them can grow more difficult with changing seasons. When the hours of available daylight shorten, there is a heightened need for taking safety precautions both during the walk and before stepping out of the door.

Dressing for visibility ensures you and your pet are seen by others on the road, especially in lower lit neighborhoods. Light colors and shiny fabrics help drivers and other pedestrians stay alert and notice your path. Reflective strips are the ultimate in clothing visibility and are also offered on dog collars and leashes.

Always keep a cell phone on you in the case of an emergency. While cell phones can act as a distraction to some, having it accessible is an important factor when leaving your home for an extended amount of time. Smart phones also offer flash light features if needed during your outing.

As with any walk, a well-trained dog helps ensure overall safety. If your pup doesn’t walk well on a leash, he or she is more at risk to travel off path or away from the owner entirely. Teach your pet how to properly interact with bypassing dogs, and always stay alert.

Don’t let the lack of daylight put a damper on you and your dog’s quality time. With a little preparation, walks are possible during any hour!

 

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Pet News Roundup: Dogs help a grieving community, a muzzled husky saves a group of pets by honking for help, and a holiday edition of awkward family photos!

by on December 21, 2012

Here on The Dish, we’ll keep an eye on the latest news in the pet food industry. We’ll have a mix of articles, statistics, news and fun facts from a variety of pet industry sources.

  • Dogs Sent to Newtown to Comfort Grieving: In the wake of last week’s tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School, a team of specially trained dogs from the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry at Lutheran Church Charities made their way to Newtown, Conn. The dogs offered comfort to grieving children and adults alike.
  • Muzzled Husky Uses Car Horn to Rescue Trapped Dogs: A week went by as three dogs and two cats were stuck in a van, abandoned by their owners. A Husky named Kiki used the muzzle locked on the dog’s snout to sound the car horn until help finally arrived.
  • Arne Svenson’s Photo Book Celebrates “Strays”: Arne Svenson, a beloved fine-art photographer, recently released a book of portraits. The abandoned cats fill the book’s pages striking poses in front of bright and playful patterns. A portion of the book’s proceeds will be donated to the organization Animalkind.
  • Awkward Holiday Family Pet Photos: PawsNation takes on holiday pictures for their most recent roundup of “awkward family photos”. From a family donning plastic cones, to Santa posing with a beloved turkey, this is a collection sure to deliver some holiday cheer! You won’t want to miss it.
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Retailer Spotlight: Pawsitively Heaven Pet Resort, Inc.

by on December 17, 2012

In our Retailer Spotlight blog posts, our team will take a closer look into some of the outstanding retailers across the country that sell Precise. We love all of our retailers and the services they bring to our customers!

Judith Schnur had a dream to open a pet resort that would be like no other. Offering boarding and caring for dogs and cats, the resort would have top-of-the-line suites, excellent daycare, cutting-edge veterinary services, superior training and grooming, and most important – act as a loving place for pet owners to entrust their animals while away from them.

After years of planning, Pawsitvely Heaven Pet Resort opened on an expansive two+ acre lot in Chicago Ridge in 2007. The tropical-themed resort has made a name for itself among the best Chicagoland boarding and daycare facilities – catering to customers traveling throughout Illinois and nearby states to drop their four-legged loved ones off for a vacation.

From delicious frozen bones to dried duck feet, Pawsitevly Heaven Pet Resort offers only the best in treats and dietary needs. Owners not only see the top quality foods the resort carries, but they also experience the passion and knowledge the employees have when recommending the best choices for each of their dogs’ particular needs.

As a supporter of Precise Pet Products, the resort has had testimony from clients that their dogs’ digestive issues have improved once switching to the brand. Pawsitevely Heaven Pet Resort knows of the importance of quality food, probiotics and a grain-free diet to help keep pets healthy and happy.

To find out more about Pawsitevely Heaven Pet Resort, Inc. and the lavish vacations they provide, visit their website.

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