Every Cat Needs Routine Veterinary Care

Posted on June 23, 2016 - 8:19 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Veterinarians see far fewer cats than they do dogs. Is it because cats are healthier? Or because cats truly have nine lives?

No and no. The two major reasons why cats receive less veterinary care than dogs are:

  1. Both cat and cat owners find it very stressful to go to the veterinary clinic.
  2. Owners often believe their cat doesn’t need routine checkups for wellness and preventive care.

The truth is that cats need veterinary care every bit as much as dogs do! Here are good reasons why your cat needs a wellness checkup at least every year and more frequently if he or she is older or has a chronic health problem.

Cats instinctively hide health problems

Unlike dogs, cats are masters at hiding — and that includes concealing signs of disease. So even the most doting and attentive cat owners may not be aware their cats are sick, especially if the early disease stages have few or very subtle symptoms. By the time signs are visible, the disease could be quite advanced. Routine wellness exams and annual screening for underlying diseases can help our cats’ veterinarians find early evidence of hidden health issues and then create plans to treat or manage the conditions.

Early stages of some common diseases have few, if any, warning signs

Many cat owners don’t know that many diseases common to middle-aged to older cats may not cause outward signs in the early stages. These health conditions include chronic declining kidney function, diabetes, overactive thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism), high blood pressure, heart murmurs and abnormal rhythms, cancer and tooth problems.

The good news is that regular veterinary visits, along with simple blood and urine tests, can reveal these developing health problems while they are still hidden from view. And this is true even if your cat is an indoor cat. Finding these medical issues early often means your veterinarian will be able to recommend more treatment options with potentially lower costs, while providing you with peace of mind and your cat with greater comfort and quality of life.

Cats age more rapidly than we do

Like dogs, cats age more rapidly than people. So basically, an annual exam for your cat is the equivalent of seeing your doctor every four to five years. That means making and keeping appointments for your feline friend’s wellness and preventive care a critical part of a healthy lifestyle.

An interior graphic depicting an age chart for cats and what their human equivalent age is from birth up to 25 years old.Source: International Cat Care

As a member of your family, you want what’s best for your cat. And the best way to keep your cat as healthy as possible is through checkups.

Know What You’re Feeding Your Pet: Making Sense of Pet Food Labels

Posted on June 2, 2016 - 7:55 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Walking down the pet food aisle — or aisles — in your favorite store can be an overwhelming experience. With thousands of options available, how do you know which food is right for your dog or cat? Reading the pet food label — and learning how to decode it — is a good place to start.

In this post, we’ll look briefly at what information is required on pet food labels. We’ll also identify which sections of the label many pet parents may be ignoring while placing too much emphasis on another.

Helpful, but limited, information for guiding pet food choices

The information found on pet food packages is either required or optional, and some sections are more helpful than others when choosing pet food. Under current federal and state regulations, all dog and cat food labels are required to include specific information stated in particular ways:

  • Brand and product name
  • Pet species (e.g., dog or cat) for which the product is intended
  • Net weight of the food in the package
  • Guaranteed analysis of specific nutrients
  • Nutritional adequacy statement, which tells the type and pet life stage the product is suited for
  • List of all ingredients in descending order by weight, including water
  • Feeding directions, if the food is labeled “complete and balanced” or “100% nutritious”
  • Calorie statement
  • Manufacturer’s or distributor’s name and address
  • While pet food labels are factual, they’re also used to capture your attention in order to provide additional information about product features and benefits.

Nutrients, not ingredients

If you’re like most pet parents, you look first at the ingredient list when choosing a pet food. All ingredients used in a pet food recipe are listed in order of their weight, so ingredients with high water content — fresh meats and vegetables, for example — are listed before similar amounts of dry ingredients (such as lamb meal or duck meal).

We strive to provide honest and accurate information about the ingredients used in Taste of the Wild recipes. But it’s also important to remember that our furry friends require and thrive on nutrients, not ingredients. Ingredients supply nutrients; they also provide mouth feel or texture, enhance flavor and preserve freshness.

Where do you really need to look?

According to Lisa Freeman, DVM, PhD, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at Tufts University, the two most useful pieces of information on a pet food label are the nutritional adequacy statement and the manufacturer.

The nutritional adequacy statement, which is usually found in small print on the back or side of a pet food package, confirms three important facts:

  1. Whether the food is complete and balanced, or intended for sporadic or supplemental feeding.
  2. For which life stage the food is intended.
  3. How the company determined the food is complete and balanced.

You also want to choose a pet food made by a reputable and knowledgeable company that follows strict quality control protocols. While the name and address of the food manufacturer or distributor is required on the pet food label, you may need to do some homework to learn more about the company and their food safety system. The answers to these questions should sway your choice of pet food:

If the cat or dog food is determined to be complete and balanced by using AAFCO nutrient profiles rather than feeding trials, is that determination made by formulation or by analysis of the finished food?

Taste of the Wild recipes are determined to be complete and balanced by formulation, which is supported with testing of the finished food to verify the presence of key nutrients.

Where is Taste of the Wild pet food made?

Taste of the Wild dog and cat foods are made in one of five manufacturing facilities, all located in the United States.

What specific quality assurance measures are used to ensure consistency and quality of ingredients and the final pet food?

Because it matters what you feed your pet, we work hard to ensure that the production of all of our recipes adheres to strict quality and safety standards. To learn more about how the quality of Taste of the Wild pet food is assured, check out this information.

Increasing Numbers of Pudgy Pooches and Fat Cats Are Tipping the Scales

Posted on May 5, 2016 - 6:15 am by
Taste of the Wild

More than half of U.S. cats and dogs are overweight or obese, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), and the problem has gotten worse over the past three years. Just like people, overweight and obese pets face increased health risks, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Decreased ability to exercise and increased risk of overheating
  • Increased risk during anesthesia and surgery
  • Shorter lifespan

So the most important decisions you’ll make today about your pet’s health are which pet food and how much of it you’ll feed.

Pet Obesity Chart | Taste of the Wild

Is your pet overweight or obese?

While surveys suggest pet owners may not recognize their dogs and cats as overweight, many owners still have some inkling about their pets’ size. So if you’re wondering whether your cat or dog is overweight or even obese, talk with your veterinarian.

You can quickly check whether your pet is becoming portly using the following approach:

  1. Does your pet have an easily identifiable “waist”? When you look down from above, do you see an hourglass shape with a waist behind the ribs? Does the abdomen slope upward from the ribs to the back legs when you look from the side? If your pup looks like a hot dog, chances are he or she is overweight.
  2. Can you easily feel your pet’s ribs? Run your hands along your pet’s side as if you’re petting him or her. If you can feel the ribs using only slight pressure, your pet is likely at an ideal weight. But if you need to apply pressure to feel the ribs, then your tabby is likely overweight or worse.
  3. Is your pet’s back flat? Can you see or feel “love handles” over the hips or top of the tail? Overweight or obese pets may look like they have a wider-than-normal back, and fat stores will be obvious.

If you think your pet is pudgy, you’ve taken an important first step toward addressing the problem. The next step is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian, who can create a nutrition and exercise program to help your four-legged friend achieve their ideal weight and body condition.

Diet: The Cause and the Solution

Overweight and obese pets are a people problem, not a pet problem. That’s because many pet owners show affection by providing huge servings of food and treats. How much do you really feed your pet? As part of the nutrition planning process, your veterinarian may ask you to:

  • Measure the amounts of food actually being fed
  • Identify other sources of calories such as treats and table scraps

The results may surprise you. But armed with this information, your veterinarian can then make specific recommendations that typically cover:

  • Realistic expectations. The 2014 American Animal Hospital Association Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats recommend a target weight loss of 1 percent to 2 percent of total body weight per week for dogs and 0.5 percent to 2 percent for cats.
  • Appropriate dog or cat food. To achieve the desired weight loss yet still meet all nutritional needs, your pet may be transitioned to a different food.
  • Specific amounts of food and treats. Measuring each serving, rather than simply filling the bowl, is critical to weight loss efforts. Table scraps should be completely eliminated from the pet’s diet and treats limited to no more than 10 percent of total daily calories. Instead of food treats, find other ways to shower your pet with attention and affection.

At least two meals should be fed daily; however, multiple small meals offered throughout the day is ideal, especially for cats.

  • Activity and environmental enrichment. Just as with people, moderate exercise is part of pet weight-management programs. Regular activity helps reduce the muscle loss that occurs during weight loss and helps maintain or increase metabolism. Exercise recommendations should consider your pet’s current activity level and physical problems as well as your time constraints. Increases in activity and playtime should be gradual, starting with amounts the pet can comfortably handle.
  • Weigh-ins to track progress and make adjustments. Taking photos during weight loss can help you see changes occurring in your pet. Regular, monthly weigh-ins at the veterinary clinic can help determine if the weight-loss approach is working. And if it isn’t, changes can be made.

Put an End to the Upward Trend

The growing trend of overweight and obese pets can be reversed. However, it takes commitment and willingness to change: your perception of a healthy weight for your pet, how you feed your dog or cat, and what activities you and your pet participate in. The rewards — an improved quality and potentially increased quantity of life for your furry friend — are well worth the effort.

6 Types of Fun Games to Play with Your Hound

Posted on April 28, 2016 - 11:45 am by
Fun Games to Play With Your Dog

From devoted racers to couch potatoes, dogs—like people—have different athletic aspirations. However, even the most relaxed furbaby needs excitement to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. On average, adult dogs need at least 30 minutes of rigorous game time per day to stay happy and healthy. If your dog follows you around with a toy in its mouth, barks and whines incessantly, digs holes in the yard, or roots around in trash cans and cupboards, he or she could be trying to tell you, “Play with me!”

We’ve rounded up six fun games for you and your faithful friend to try. None of them require more equipment than a toy to throw or treats to hide—you probably have everything you need on hand right now. So head outside, get to playing and watch as the tension and boredom melt away from your pooch (and probably you, too)!

Fun games for you and your dog

Scent games

A dog’s sense of smell is somewhere between 10,000 and 100,000 times better than humans (if this same ratio was applied to sight, where a human could see a quarter mile ahead, a dog could see up to 25,000 miles ahead). Incorporating scent tracking into play is an excellent way to invigorate your dog with multi-sensory activities.

  • Hide treats: Place treats throughout your yard or house and let your dog search for them.
  • Tracking: Take the classic “catch” a step further—instead of throwing the toy where your dog can see it, place a toy or treat out of sight and make them sniff it out. If your dog is easily finding the treats, make this more complex by hiding them in harder-to-find places. Another option is to leave your dog in a separate area, such as inside the house, while you’re hiding the treat outside.
  • Find the treat: Place a few containers upside down, with a favorite toy or treat under a specific one. Let your dog smell each container, and wait for him or her to pause at the one holding the prize.

Fetch

You know it. You love it. This classic game is a great way to exercise your dog mentally and physically. To keep things fresh, instead of continually throwing a ball or toy in the same manner, vary the direction, height and distance of your throws.

Frisbee

The flying disc has been loved by athletic dogs and their owners for decades. This game promotes skill and speed, since the goal is to catch the disc in mid-air. Can’t get Fido to catch the disc? Some dogs hate the feeling of hard plastic in their mouths. Try a softer flying disc instead. If your dog’s still not interested, try playing Frisbee with another person —in no time your dog will realize how much fun he or she could be having!

Under, over and through

A rainy or snowy day doesn’t mean that you and your furry friend are doomed to boredom. Setting up a game like “under, over and through” wears out your dog and provides a bonding experience for both of you.

For this game, set up an obstacle course in your house for your dog to run under, jump over or go through. Use household objects like chairs, stools, tables, or other sturdy objects to set up the course. Then coax your dog through (and under, and over) using treats and praise.

Chasing

A great way to play with your dog is to start a chase. In this game, you act as a canine play partner. To start the game, bend forward and hop backwards before running off in another direction. Let your dog chase you before finally catching up, then give them lots of praise and affection to encourage them.

Bored Dog No More

As you introduce new games to your dog, give him or her enthusiastic congratulations when he or she figures them out—and gentle correction as your dog learns the rules. By keeping a positive attitude, you can make these games a healthy, happy part of your dog’s lifestyle for years to come.

If your dog isn’t used to playing every day, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to start increasing his or her daily activity level. You may need to start slow, but consistent and rigorous exercise is the best way to keep your furry pal healthy and happy for the long haul.

Off the Beaten Path: How to Hike with Your Dog

Posted on April 21, 2016 - 6:37 pm by
Taste of the Wild

With summer right around the corner, it’s time to think about ways to get out and enjoy the nice weather. A great way to soak up those rays is by getting outside and hitting the trails — and your pooch probably agrees! Here are some things to keep in mind as you get ready to take your dog hiking.

Is Your Dog Ready?

Trail Etiquette
The last thing anyone wants when they’re hiking is an unruly dog that lunges at them when they pass by. According to the hiking experts at REI, an outdoor outfitter based near Seattle, Washington, knowing what sorts of situations can set your dog off is important to avoid an aggravated pooch or fellow hikers.

Additionally, be sure to know the leash laws for any dusty path you venture down with your dog. You can usually find the specific leash requirements for your chosen trail by looking at the “rules and regulations” section of a park’s or municipality’s website. Many trail maps will mention the regulations as well. When in doubt, however, always leash your dog.

To help your dog become more comfortable with hiking, start out by trying low-traffic trails. This may mean trying out hiking during the off-season.

Physical Capabilities
Even if your dog is raring to go, some trails may be too much for them. Know what sort of exercise your dog is capable of and make sure that the trail is a good fit for you and your dog’s expertise level. For those dogs who aren’t used to hiking, Dogster recommends building “endurance with shorter hikes before attempting longer, more difficult ones.”

What to Pack

Being prepared for your hike means knowing what to pack. REI lists some basic hiking gear that you should pack for your pup:

  • Food and water (and dishes)
  • First aid pack
  • Booties, vests or coats
  • Leashes

Doggy Packs
If you expect your hiking buddy to carry their own pack, ease them into it. Putting a loaded pack on your dog and assuming that they will be fine rarely pans out well. REI offers some helpful advice for easing your dog into carrying their own gear on a hike:

If you want your pet to carry some of the load, start off by having him or her wear a pack around the house, then on short walks, then longer walks. You should also start with lighter loads. It’s safe to work to up to one-third of your dog’s weight if your dog is in healthy physical condition. For dogs who are older or in poor physical condition, consider leaving them at home with friends. They’ll be much happier… and safer, too.

Feeding Your Active Dog

To help your dog keep up with you on the trails, it’s important to feed them food that offers ingredients with higher protein and fat than the average dog food. A good source of energy for active dogs is the Ancient Wetlands Canine Recipe with Roasted Fowl. Read more about this product to find out if it’s the right fit for your furry pal.

After the Hike

Chances are good that your pup is going to sleep like a baby after a long hike. But before they are down for the count, Dogster recommends checking your dog for cuts or injuries as well as ticks, which can carry Lyme disease.

Since dogs burn energy faster than humans, it’s important to pack some food for your tired and, most likely, hungry dog to munch on after the hike.

What to Ask on Your First Veterinary Visit

Posted on April 1, 2016 - 12:21 am by
Taste of the Wild

Going to the veterinarian for the first time can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what to expect. Whether this is a routine checkup or looking into symptoms, follow these steps to make sure you have a successful appointment.

Preparing for Your Visit

Preparation before your first visit to the veterinarian can make all the difference. While you may be taking mental notes before your visit, writing down any questions or concerns you may have is a great way to make sure you don’t forget anything.

In these notes, be specific. Write down specific food and treat brands you are feeding your pet, along with the quantities – because telling your veterinarian that you feed your pup a “handful” of dog food doesn’t tell very much!

If this visit goes beyond a routine checkup, write down all symptoms you notice in your pet and any medication your pet may be taking. Takes notes on your pet’s water drinking habits, appetite, energy level, or any behavior that may be unusual.

If you have a pet going to the veterinarian for the first time, contact them ahead of time to determine if you will need to bring in a stool sample for a fecal exam.

What to Ask the Veterinarian

During your first visit to the veterinarian’s office, there are a few questions that you should ask to make sure you’re ready for any scenario that may arise.

What are the office’s capabilities?

Not all offices are able to cater to each and every need a pet owner may have. To make sure there are no surprises in a crisis, ask what capabilities they have. Do they have an in-house laboratory for tests? Can they take x-rays? What surgeries are these veterinarians able to do?

Where can I find emergency care after hours, on weekends or during holidays?

While some offices may offer emergency care after hours, many do not. Ask your veterinarian whether they will be available during non-office hours in case of an emergency, and if not, where you should take your pet.

What parasites and pests are common in this area? And how do I prevent them from harming my pet?

Knowing what parasites and pests are common in your area gives you a head start at prevention. Discuss what steps you can take to keep your pet healthy and pest free.

Should I have pet insurance?

While pet insurance isn’t a must for everyone, it may be helpful for you and your pet. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with insight on whether or not pet insurance is right for you and your pet.

What type of food should I buy?

Talk with your veterinarian to determine which ingredients are needed to make sure your pet has a healthy diet.

Does my pet need any vaccinations?

Be sure to mention if you ever expect to board your pet, take your dog to a dog park, or let your cat outside – these can affect which prevention treatments your pet needs.

Should I microchip my pet?

Not all pet owners want to place a microchip in their pet, but for those interested, a veterinarian is able to provide you will all the information needed to make a decision. Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and contain your contact information.

What kind of grooming do you recommend for my pet?

Different breeds require different types of care. Your veterinarian can recommend grooming procedures and professionals for regular care.

Your local veterinarian is an excellent resource for helpful tips and tricks for raising a healthy and happy pet. Don’t be afraid to ask your veterinarian any other lingering questions you may have.

Top 8 Litter Box Training Issues & What to Do About Them

Posted on March 24, 2016 - 9:19 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Many cats experience a litter box issue at some point in their lives. Finding the root cause is the key to helping your kitty love the litter box again. Here are a few of the most commonly found litter box training issues and what you can do to alleviate them.

Ew, I Can’t Go In There!

A cat making a silly expression while looking around.

Is your precious furball eliminating everywhere except their litter box? It could mean their litter box needs a thorough cleaning.

Avoid any issues with cleanliness by removing clumps daily and changing the litter at least twice weekly for non-clumping and monthly for clumping. Whenever you change the litter, wash the litter box with soap and water (avoid bleach and ammonia).

Notice a lingering smell? Toss it out! If you can notice a smell, you can bet your cat’s sensitive nose definitely smells it.

This Is Mine

A cat lying on a couch by itself next to text that reads, 'Sorry, couch is full'.

Territorial cats tend to mark their territory by “spraying” items around the house. Spraying is a common problem for cats that have not been spayed or neutered. Typically, spaying and neutering an intact cat will often resolve the issue.

And remember — it’s best to use the formula “cats + 1” to determine the number of litter boxes you need in the home if you have multiple kitties. (You’ll need three litter boxes for two cats, four litter boxes for three cats, and so on.)

Have feuding cats? This can also cause the problem to escalate. Separate any territorial cats and reintroduce them slowly.

It’s Not Just Right

A cat closing its eyes with a tear rolling down its cheek.

Your cat may be a feline Goldilocks — the litter box has to be juuuust right. If your cat is uncomfortable in the litter box, chances are good that they will avoid eliminating there. Take a look at the litter box and ask yourself these questions:

  • Is the litter box hard for your cat to get into? (Do they need better accessibility?)
  • Is the litter box the right size? (Too small is uncomfortable, too big is scary.)
  • Does the litter box have a hood? (If yes, your cat might feel claustrophobic. If no, your cat might feel overexposed.)
  • Does the litter have a scent or an odd texture? Is there too much or too little litter in the litter box? (Cats are sensitive to textures and smells. Try a new litter that is better suited for their senses.)

Location, Location, Location

A cat running down steps past a frightened kitten that is having trouble going down the steps.

Sometimes the root of your litter box problem can be as simple as its location. Have you recently moved your litter box? It could be that your cat is having a hard time remembering where it is… or they are unimpressed with the new location. Gently remind your cat where the litter box is and see if anything in the area is putting them off using the litter box.

Make sure your cat can easily locate and use the litter box. If a litter box is all the way in the basement, your cat may be having an issue reaching it. If that’s the case, your cat may need a litter box on each floor of your house.

That Box Is Scary!

A frightened cat raising its paw to its face.

Like humans, cats can associate things or places with a memory. If that association is something negative, it could lead to litter box avoidance. If there is a negative sentiment, help create a safe, quiet space for your kitty to eliminate in an effort to make it a positive experience.

Has someone in your house reacted to your cat eliminating outside of his or her litter box by placing his or her in it as punishment? Many pet owners think this helps teach their cat a lesson, but in reality, it causes cats to avoid the litter box.

Is There an Underlying Medical Issue?

A cat wrapped in a blanket lying face up in a sink bowl.

In some cases, inappropriate elimination is a health issue. Common illnesses that cause elimination issues include urinary tract infection (UTI), bladder stones or blockages and feline interstitial cystitis.

If you believe your cat is suffering from a medical issue, consult your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will walk through the steps to identify these health issues.

I’m Not Trying to Make a Mess

A used litter box with litter scattered all over the floor.

While kicking litter out of a litter box may seem like an irrational practice to pet owners, it is a logical step for a cat. Cats make an indentation in the litter when preparing to eliminate. Afterwards, the cat covers it up with litter, and if the walls aren’t tall enough, you will have litter everywhere.

To fix this, the easiest solutions are to either buy a new litter box with taller walls or fix up the current one you own.

If you prefer to keep your current litter box, consider placing it in a large plastic storage box. Be sure to cut an opening in one of the sides for your cat to easily access the litter box. This solution may be ideal for solving the stray litter issue when dealing with a cat who has joint or mobility problems.

Litter, Litter Everywhere

A white cat stepping out of an enclosed litter box.

While living with a cat can be lovely, constantly cleaning litter off your floor is not. To decrease the amount of time you spend sweeping up spilled litter, try one of these methods.

Heavier or Bulkier Litter

Many lighter litters can get stuck in your cat’s paws, meaning they are tracking that litter well after their visit to the box. If that is the case, try a heavier or bulkier litter. Be aware — you’ll need to transition between litters for the comfort of your cat.

Use a Mat

Try placing a mat outside the litter box. A mat will help trap the majority of excess litter. Avoid any mats with textures your cat has shown an aversion to.

Trim Your Cat’s Hair

Long-haired cats, as the name implies, typically have long hair between their toes. This hair often catches litter, resulting in your cat tracking it around the house. Trim the hair between their toes to help stop spreading litter.

How to Solve Other Litter Box Problems

A cat sitting on top of a bucket on the floor.

There are many problem-specific solutions to inappropriate elimination, but if you are unable to identify the root problem or if it seems your cat enjoys eliminating in a specific place at your house, try these potential solutions:

  • If possible, try closing a door or putting up a barrier to close off that area.
  • Place food bowls and treats in those favorite areas to discourage them from eliminating in that space. Cats typically will not eliminate near their food, so this tends to be successful.
  • Put a bell on your cat and catch them in the act. If you catch your cat, try to startle them to create a new association with that spot. Do not scare your cat — this will only worsen the problem.
  • Change the texture of the area. Place newspaper, plastic or sandpaper on those favorite areas.

It can be difficult to break inappropriate elimination habits. But early detection and dedicating your time to solving any underlying issues are key to controlling these problems. With time and patience, your cat will be happily using their litter box!

Train Your Dog to Herd Backyard Chickens

Posted on March 11, 2016 - 12:52 am by
Taste of the Wild

Backyard chicken herding can be a relief for the hobby farmer for two reasons: first, it allows your chickens to range freely in the yard without hassle from predators; and second, it provides stimulating exercise for your pooch.

However, while your dog may have natural herding instincts, in order to successfully herd chickens, he or she will need training to learn to be gentle around the fowl and successfully herd them back into their coop.

Is my dog right for herding?

Herding dogs possess natural instincts and high intelligence, making them ideal for household and farming tasks.

The most common chicken-herding dogs are:

  • Australian shepherd
  • Border collie
  • Shetland sheepdog
  • Great Pyrenees
  • Collie
  • Welsh corgi

Other dogs can certainly learn to herd chickens — it’s just a bit easier to start with a breed that naturally enjoys the task.

Training your dog

Teaching your dog new skills

According to dog behaviorist and expert trainer Carolyn Georgariou, the key to your dog becoming a herding master is learning how to leave it. While your dog should know all the basics, such as come, heel, lie down, sit, and stay, knowing how to leave it is essential for your dog to remain well-behaved around your chickens. If your dog struggles with these commands, well . . . chicken herding might be a bit of a reach.

Once your dog has these basic instructions mastered, move on to more complex commands. The goal, as you introduce your dog to your chickens, is to be able to implement your basic directions while training for more complex, herding-specific commands.

Gauging your dog’s behavior

Natural herding instincts will be displayed early on for many herding dogs. To spot these signs, watch how he or she interacts with you or other animals. If he or she likes to circle around you in an attempt to influence you in a specific direction, it is a good sign that he or she will easily and effectively learn how to herd your chickens.

Some dogs may even naturally start herding after watching you interact with the chickens.

“I used my Australian shepherd to herd chickens,” said Kim Pezza, author of the Backyard Farming series. “She watched me put the birds in for a short time, then one day she looked at me as if to say, ‘I want to help.’ Every night for the rest of her life, she brought the chickens in from the woods… however I never really trained her.”

Play some catch

Not only is playing catch an excellent form of exercise, it also teaches your dog basic obedience skills and will help him or her develop his or her chasing instincts. To make this more applicable to herding chickens (and to prevent thinning your flock unintentionally), teach your dog to catch only on command.

Introducing your herder to the herd

Start the introduction process slowly to avoid aggression from your dog. If your dog seems anxious, take a break and reintroduce the chickens after he or she has calmed down. Repeating this process will lessen the chance of your dog becoming overexcited around your backyard fowl in the future.

Don’t let the herder hurt the herd

After you’ve introduced your dog to your chickens and have started training him or her to herd real animals, watch your dog’s body language. It will be clear if your dog is capable of and ready for this task.

A good herder should approach the chickens with his or her tail down and run circles around them. If your dog does this while remaining attentive to your commands, you can be confident in him or her. If not, you may need to continue training — or even scrap the idea entirely.

Remember, if your dog is not interested in herding chickens, he or she will not respond to any chicken-related training that you introduce to him or her.

All in a day’s work

It takes time and commitment to train a dog to herd animals, but once this process is completed, your herding dog can be a very helpful resource for you and your backyard farm. By honing his or her herding skills, you’ll soon find that your dog will be ready to help you raise your chickens.

How to Care for a Formerly Abused Pet

Posted on March 3, 2016 - 11:22 pm by
Taste of the Wild

As your new pet adjusts to your home, a period of post-adoption jitters is totally normal. However, there are some cases where these jitters stem from more than just new surroundings and a new family. Yes, unfortunately, we’re talking about the fearful feelings that are common after effects of abuse.

Dealing with these situations can be overwhelming, but with patience and hard work, you can make this transitional period easier for you and your pet. Ensuring that your pet can adjust to a healthy and happy life with a new family starts with a solid relationship built on a strong foundation of trust.

Signs of Former Abuse

When people think of abused pets, they imagine a fearful and jittery animal, but many professionals argue there are no consistent signs of abuse among pets. According to Dr. Tammie Pearce from Ask.Vet, there are a variety of reasons why pets are fearful or lash out in uncomfortable situations. Those can vary from being naturally shy to having a lack of socialization.

But in some cases, pet owners will notice a fear of a specific object. Since pets associate objects with a positive or negative memory, seeing an object that caused them pain may draw a violent reaction.

“Our dog Muggsy would cower whenever any type of stick was near her or if a foot was extended,” said pet owner Diana Hart. “She is thriving with us now because she has lots of love and no violence of any kind.”

Unless it was directly reported, many pet owners have no way of knowing if their pet was taken from an abusive situation. If you suspect your pet was abused, be sure to remain patient as your pet grows accustomed to a new home. While this transition may take longer than you want it to, be assured it is well worth the time and effort.

Gaining Their Trust

There is always an adjustment period when a new pet is brought into the home. And if that pet was formerly abused or is naturally fearful, taking the time to ensure this period runs smoothly is of the utmost importance.

“I don’t expect any of these animals to value me or trust me when we first meet,” said Sherry Woordard, animal behaviorist. “It is my job to help them from the beginning to stay safe and keep myself and all others safe as we interact.”

Fearful animals, whether due to personality or difficult or harmful situations, require additional care to help them adjust to their new home. Try to find something that motivates them, like treats or toys, and use those items as positive reinforcement for good behavior.

And on the other side of that coin, identifying what causes a negative or fearful reaction and working on alleviating these tensions can tremendously help a pet adjust to your home. For example, if you notice a strong case of separation anxiety, work on establishing a schedule to show that you will return when you leave the house.

“Without management during the first months, they would be more fearful and eliminate in places that we don’t want them to,” Woordard continues. “Many would continue to avoid getting close to us, which makes it more difficult to build trust.”

Interacting With a Fearful Pet

As you begin interacting with your pet, Dr. Pearce suggests physically getting on the same level as him or her and offering a small amount of food or a treat. If your pet approaches, be sure to stay calm and let the pet take the treat without any interaction from you.

If your pet’s body language shows fear, back off and work slowly at your interactions. Be sure to never push your pet into a situation where he or she is uncomfortable. Your pet will take the lead and when he or she is ready, your pet will approach you. And remember – if you, your family or overzealous visitors (*cough cough* animal-loving kids) force your pet into unwanted interaction, it will set back any trust-building progress you have made.

Providing a Safe Space

Some pets prefer to leave a situation when they encounter something or someone they are not comfortable with. Create a safe space for your pet to provide them with an escape when they are overwhelmed.

To create a safe space, find an area of the house that your pet seems to run to when scared. Cats tend to prefer hiding in a quiet shelter when they are scared, so try placing a cardboard box or similar shelter in a quiet area of a room. If your pet has a toy or blanket they tend to use when scared, place that in the safe space.

For your dog, establish a place that is all for him or her. Depending on what your dog prefers, that may be anything from his or her kennel to a doggy bed. Whatever place he or she tends to go to when scared is the ideal place for your safe space. Just like with a cat, place any toys or blankets your dog may use when scared.

When your pet is in a safe space, do not interact with him or her. Let your pet relax and decide when he or she is ready to leave that space.

Integrating Your Pet

Formerly abused pets require stability and lots of care, and can be a tall order for some pet owners. If you are experiencing troubles with this process, reach out to a pet behaviorist for help. They can assess your pet’s individual behaviors and will have other helpful tips and steps that you can follow.

Helping your pet overcome and heal from challenging situations is a difficult and long process, but if you are able and willing to put in the time and effort to care for your pet, it is highly rewarding.

What to Know Before Adopting a Former Police or Military Working Dog

Posted on January 14, 2016 - 2:49 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Over the years, adopting former police and military dogs has increased in popularity. However, many people are unaware of what the official adoption process is like. If you or someone you know are considering adopting a military working dog (MWD), read these tips to learn more about what adoption and ownership really entails.

What Is a Military Working Dog (MWD)?

MWD is the official name for retired police and military dogs. MWDs have been retired from duty — usually due to the inability to perform required tasks, and sometimes due to health or age. Many have worked as field or training dogs, and have a unique set of skills honed for a specific purpose. In some cases, this can make potential owners nervous, but worry not — all adoptable dogs have to pass behavioral tests to ensure they’re outgoing companions and a good fit for civilian adoption.

Dogs with specialized skill sets or who don’t pass the civilian adoptability criteria are made available to their former trainers and nonprofit organizations for special needs MWDs.

Is an MWD Right for Me?

Some MWDs are young pups that were not cut out for military or police lifestyles, and others are older dogs in declining health. Many were never trained for combat missions, and civilian-available dogs are not considered any more dangerous than the average dog. Considering a former MWD for your family is much like considering any other adoptable dog. A few questions worth asking yourself might be:

  • Do I have a fenced-in yard?
  • Do I have enough room in my home for an active dog?
  • How much care and attention can I provide a dog?
  • What is my ideal dog like?
  • Who else lives in my home that might not be compatible with a new dog?

Once adopted, the MWDs lose any military benefits, meaning the family that adopts him or her must cover any health issues financially, just like any other pet.

Next Steps in MWD Adoption

All retired MWDs available for adoption are located at the Military Working Dog School, which operates out of Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. There is no fee to adopt a retired MWD, but you must pay for all transportation costs.

If you are selected as a candidate for adoption, you will need to provide proof that you meet all expectations for potential families (these are the standard expectations for any rescue animal: you have the appropriate space for a pet, permission from your landlord, and the ability to care for his or her health needs). Any family that is chosen for adoption will be required to meet with military personnel for an official interview.

Once you are chosen to move forward in the adoption process, you will wait for a scheduled appointment to visit the base and meet with the dogs that match your lifestyle and interests. Your selected dog will complete a veterinary exam before being released to your family.

Remember – Patience Is Required

Since MWD adoptions are both limited and popular, you will need to remain patient throughout the entire adoption process. The Lackland Air Force Base works hard to ensure that all MWDs go home with families that are able to give these special dogs a healthy, happy home.

Adopting a former MWD? Check out this post on nutrition for working dogs!