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Love Letters and Lessons: Part 1 In A Series

Kelly Gorman Dunbar | Sun, 03/01/2009 - 07:47

Last month we asked our readers to share their love of dog with us by answering two questions, “What have you learned from the dogs in your life?” and “What would you say to your dog if you were to write a letter to him or her? (Assuming dogs could read!)

The response to our survey was overwhelming and insightful (thank you!) and gives a tiny glimpse into the wonderfully complex and beautiful relationship between two very different species that spend their lives together. Below is the first in a series of posts where we share our readers’ responses with you. Enjoy!

The story of a journey

Marie Finnegan | Fri, 02/27/2009 - 19:01

Tomorrow I am headed on a trip out of state with my sister to go look at a litter of bulldog puppies. It took us a long time to get to this point and now it has arrived. I am excited but also reflective. Last May she lost her previous bulldog Zeus to temperment issues. This is his story.

Zeus originally came to her as a rescue out of hurricane Katrina. He was found with 2 other bulldogs outside in a yard. One of the other dogs had been killed by a fallen tree. He never did like windy days after that and would hide in his crate when storms came in. Who could blame him?

Three Little (BIG) Things All Dog Owners Should Know

Kelly Gorman Dunbar | Fri, 02/27/2009 - 07:32

Many of you may not have had the opportuity to see Dr. Ian Dunbar speak publicly at a seminar as of yet, so we thought we'd give you a little taste. A few months ago he spoke at EG (Entertainment Gathering) where he shared what he believes are the top three important things people should know to live with and train dogs. We here at Dog Star Daily thought it would be a good idea to share the video with you. Enjoy!

Sit, Stay, Go - 3 Things All Dogs Should Know

Rachel Friedman | Tue, 02/24/2009 - 07:05

As winter continues to linger in my neck of the woods, with day after day of cold, snow, wind, rock salt and the need to layer layer layer, I am heartened by the obvious lengthening of days. It is a sure sign that spring is really coming.

As I am working my own Six Pillar program with my 3 dogs, I note again for anyone who cares to listen, that training in winter is actually EASIER than other seasons, especially if you live in a 4 season climate. It may be a more daunting project to take the dog out and about, because of those aforementioned wintry elements, but once you're dressed, there are many reasons WHY it's easier.

Here's a short list:

And the winner is . . .

Dr. Jon Klingborg | Thu, 02/19/2009 - 06:57

This is the time of year when we find out which pet has won the Rover Awards—the canine and feline version of the Oscars.

The Rover Award winner for Art Direction goes to Molly the anxious cat. Her creative placement of cat poop in the middle of the den was her attempt to spell S-O-S. She stopped using her litter box when the household teenager started playing the video game Rock Band. Molly may not be entertained by the loud music, but sure certainly has a flair for ‘carpet art.’ Perhaps it is time to find a new location for the litter box?

This year’s Rover Award for Costume Design goes to a talented puppy named Chewy. A sculptor at heart, he carefully reshaped the shoes in the house to resemble modern art.   Of course, Chewy’s muse was Ennui, the Goddess of Boredom . A little exercise and a few toys might have saved those shoes.

The Power Of Play

Gillian Ridgeway | Wed, 02/18/2009 - 07:03

Nothing is as delightful to dog owners than seeing their pet engage in the lighthearted activity of play, whether it be for recreation, a game or exercise. While dogs acting playful might seem to be pleasing, the actual power of this play is highly underrated.

My Teacher, My Friend

COLLIGNON CATHERINE | Tue, 02/17/2009 - 07:13

I could tell you about his life with us, about the first time his eyes met mines behind the shelter bars.

I could tell you how these 17 years shared with him were made of good memories and connections. Connections between a dog and a family of human beings. And how his presence by our side during all these years let us think he was in his element.

God knows how strong was my love for him, and how I was aware of that moment that would eventually come and separate us.

That day arrived, it was a Friday in October in the year 2008.

Leader of the Snack

Dr. Jon Klingborg | Mon, 02/16/2009 - 18:05

On the average day, over half of the pets that I treat are ‘heavier than ideal,’ and about 10 percent are what I would call morbidly obese—meaning that their weight is going to cause serious health problems in the near future.

Most owners feel guilty when told their pet is too fat, but I’ve come to realize that it really isn’t their fault—the feeding of our pets is an innate human behavior—almost as basic as laughing or walking.

Even toddlers seem to understand this relationship. Children don’t need to be coached to share their food with the family dog. Instead, youngsters take great delight in throwing handfuls of delicious bounty off of the high chair tray and down to the waiting furry friend below.

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Gillian Ridgeway | Mon, 02/16/2009 - 07:34

Love is a term that is often kicked around when it comes to our canine companions. Many pet owners believe that if every whim of their dog is not catered to, then their dog will not love them, perhaps will even shun them.

With love must come respect. Stop now and close your eyes and visualize someone that you love and it is quite certain that you also respect them. This is a major problem with many dogs today; the person loves them but may inadvertently disrespect them. On the other hand (or paw), many of these dogs lack respect for people mainly because they have not been shown guidelines.

We know this to be true because when working with unruly dogs, dogs who snap and growl at anyone who removes them from their favorite corner of the couch. We see that when guidelines are put in place, and a little bit of work is done, these dogs become less stressed and consequently become lovely family members.

The Man Who Cried Alpha

Nicole Wilde | Sat, 02/14/2009 - 08:39

“You must be the alpha dog in your pack.” “If you’re not the alpha, your dog will try to take over that role.” You’ve heard these phrases before. “Alpha” is commonly understood to mean the top dog; the head honcho; the big cheese. But where did the term come from, and is it still applicable today?