Make Eating Doggy Do-Do A Doggy No-No

So there you are. Out on a beautiful spring day, your faithful friend by your side. Big smiles on both your faces as you breathe in the clean fresh air. But unfortunately, this is not the path less traveled. In fact, there have been quite a few before you that have taken this very walk - both man and beast.

Suddenly, it's the moment you've been dreading. Your furry sidekick, nose to the ground has found a "treasure". A remnant of another dog's journey before yours. And before you can yank the leash to drag your dog away from this unsavory treat, he has scooped said remnant into this mouth and is happily munching away. Your shoulders sag and a chill runs down your spine as you wonder why in the world your beloved hound would find this unappetizing pile so tasty?

Enough with the imagery. Let's get serious. As disgusting as this habit may be to humans, it is not uncommon in dogs. But why do dogs eat poop? There are many reasons actually. An article on the website Pet Comfort Products.com lists 20 different reasons. This website is dedicated to reviewing pet products and relaying information on the good ones and the not-so-good products as well as other helpful information to pet owners. Here is a sampling of the list from their article "Why Dogs Eat Poop":

• They are bored, anxious or lonely
  
• They need more food or are not getting the proper nutrients from the food they are eating
• They are "housekeeping" or cleaning up their living area
• They may eat the poop of a more dominant dog living in their family
• Different nutrients and additives in cat food may be appetizing to your dog therefore, they eat poop from the litter box
• Attention getting behavior

Now, that we know some of the reasons why dogs eat poop, what can we do to stop it?

• If they are bored or are seeking attention - spend more time with your dog. Take longer or more frequent walks. Teach them new tricks or increase the time you play fetch. Take them with you on short errands to the bank or cleaners, for instance.
• Check with your veterinarian to see if they need to eat more, or have him prescribe another food.
• Keep your pet's play areas clean and poop-free. Scoop the poop regularly.
  
• Buy a "hooded litter box or move the litter box to a place inaccessible to your dog
• Try adding For-Bid or other additives to your dog's food to make the taste unappetizing
• Take your dog to your vet for a check-up. Discuss the situation with your vet and ask his/her advice. Make sure there are no underlying health issues that might be causing the behavior

Remember, if you have a poop eater, don't be too hard on yourself or your dog. It's a common behavior in dogs. Try to understand the underlying reasons your dog has developed this habit and what to do to discourage it. Above all, be patient and get additional help from a professional if needed.

Scoop the Poop Campaign

So, the sun is out. The days are longer. The temperatures are warm and balmy. Your dog is bringing you his leash, begging for a nice long walk in the springtime sunshine. As most Austin dog owners are aware, this city has a multitude of parks and places you can play with your pet.

However, in recent years, the elevated bacteria levels in many creeks and lakes have been a cause for concern. Bacteria levels have reached such high levels that some parks have had to close temporarily for restoration and clean up. Bull Creek District Park an off-leash dog park is one such park currently closed. Although the primary reason for the park's closure is to restore natural vegetation to areas where excessive erosion has taken place, the park's water levels indicate significantly high levels of E. coli with dog waste thought to be the main contributor.

In June 2000, the Watershed Protection Department in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Department began a pilot program to install 25 "Mutt Mitts" dispensers in various high traffic dog parks throughout the city. In 2001, 75,000 Mutt Mitt bags were distributed. By 2008, 115 Mutt Mitt dispensers were installed throughout Austin and over 2.8 million bags distributed. Experts estimate that there are 120,000 dogs in Austin each depositing on average 1/2 lb. of waste per load. With over 2.8 million bags distributed, that means the city has hauled away nearly 1.4 millions pounds of poop!!!

The City of Austin is kicking off an educational campaign to teach owners about the importance of waste removal. Television spots, a park sculpture and educational brochures will be made available to the public. For more information on the "Sccop the Poop" campaign as well as videos, television spots, and brochures, Mutt Mitt dispenser locations and dog-friendly park locations, click here: Scoop the Poop. So be sure to do your part to help keep Austin lakes, creeks and parks clean and safe. Don't forget to and Scoop the Poop!!!

Let's Hear it for the Seniors!!

It's no secret that older dogs are often passed by at animal shelters by adopters that don't understand the value of a more mature dog. At HOTLR, we look beyond the age of the dogs we evaluate. In fact, it is impossible for us to know the real age of many of our dogs because often we don't have their full history. It's what we see in their heart and soul that bring them into the HOTLR family. Below we've listed a few reasons why we think more mature Labs make such great companions:

10) They already have manners.

9) They understand that "play time" has a definitive start and end.

8) They LOVE to take naps and watch really long, boring movies.

7) It is not necessary to train for a marathon or invest in a automated pitching machine to wear them out.

6) The white in their muzzles make them look distinguished and sophisticated.

5) They do not bark as much; they've learned to speak volumes with their eyes.

4) They have learned that your shoes, books and furniture are not chew toys.

3) "Going for a ride" does not always have to end at the park or the lake. They are perfectly happy going to the bank, grocery store or pretty much anywhere as long as it's with you.

2) They are great babysitters and teachers for younger dogs.

And the Number One Reason to Adopt an Older Dog:

1) They know they don't have the face of an 8 week old puppy. They know their chances are limited. They know what it's like to feel safe and loved and to lose it. So, they will bond to you faster and harder. They will never forget it was you that saved them. They will be loyal to you forever. That is their gift to you.

To learn more about the dogs pictured here as well as other senior members of the HOTLR family, please click here Labs Available for Adoption for more information.

And Baby Makes Four - How to Introduce Your Dog to the Newest Member of the Pack

Congratulations!! You have a new baby. Not having a child myself, I can only imagine all the changes that take place in your life once your beautiful bundle of joy arrives. Although I am no expert at human "momminess", hopefully I can help shed some light on how to make the transition easier for your dog.

Unfortunately, sometimes when a new baby arrives, the pet who was formerly the "baby" may find his life has drastically altered. The house where he may have once enjoyed free reign suddenly has rooms that have become "off limits" or certain pieces of furniture where he may once have napped, are no longer allowed for peaceful slumber. Stuffed toys which have always been a favorite play toy, may no longer be appropriate toys for your pet. Daily walks or play sessions may be reduced or disappear altogether as new parents understandably, have less free time.

What's worse, is that many times dogs that have always been indoors are suddenly relegated to the backyard isolated from the family that once doted on him. This lack of attention and change in lifestyle while not meant to be hurtful, can cause the dog to become stressed and lead to the development of negative behavioral issues. Tragically, many pets are given up because of the arrival of a new baby.

The key to success is preparation. Just as you have had 9 months to prepare for the arrival of your baby, your dog is no different. He too should be a participant in the preparation with specific exercises designed for him so that when the baby arrives, you will be confident of the behavior you can expect from him and vice versa.

The Humane Society of the United States is a great resource for information regarding your pets. They have written an article entitled "Introducing Your Pet and New Baby" that is filled with great suggestions. Here are just a few examples:

1) Before the baby arrives, take you pet to the veterinarian. Have the vet give your dog a thorough check-up and make sure all vaccinations are up to date.

2) Focus on obedience in the time prior to the arrival of the baby. Practice having the dog lie calmly next to you. Teach him not to jump and curb any "mouthing" or "play biting" behavior.

3) If the mother-to-be is especially close with the pet, have someone else begin to spend more time with the dog. This way the dog will have an opportunity to bond with another person and not feel "lost" when the new mother is unable to spend as much time as she used to with the dog.

4) Set aside time each day to spend one on one with the pet - even if it's just a grooming session, a short walk, or some dedicated backyard ball time.

5) Have friends with babies and young children over to the house so that the dog gets used to babies.

6) If the baby's room will be off limits, start training the dog right away to stay out of the room. Or set aside a certain part of the room where the dog will be allowed to stay. Give him special toys and treats when he stays in his "part" of the room.

7) Once the mother has gone to the hospital, bring a blanket or some clothing with the baby's smell home for the dog to sniff so he becomes familiar with the baby's scent.

These are just a few of the tips that you will find in the Humane Society's article. To read the full article, please click here. Dogs and babies can live successfully together with each getting the proper attention they deserve, but it is important to prepare your pet for the arrival of their new "brother" or "sister", just as you prepare any other member of your family.