Prevnting Dog Bites in Young Children

"The mean doggie bit my tushy!" is still something of a meme in my family, a running joke that we bring up a few times a year. It refers to my hysterical utterances following an incident some twenty-two years ago, when a doberman pinscher pinned my then-thirty-pound body to the ground and ripped viciously into my rear end. As funny as it is in retrospect, the incident was serious-- and it's by no means rare. More than half of children will experience a dog bite by age 12, according to the ASPCA. As someone still bearing the scars from a dog bite in my early childhood, I'm very careful now to make sure to take precautions to prevent my young daughter from suffering a similar injury.

Here are some of ways that parents and dog owners can prevent dog bites.

Keep your dog restrained around children until you know how he will behave.

My friend's five-year-old daughter was attacked by a dog who fractured her skull and caused her to require extensive brain surgery. The dog was a "good dog" but had never been around children and his owners didn't know that he was unfriendly toward them. If you don't know how well your dog reacts to young children, keep him leashed and muzzled during his first few interactions with them. You can gradually switch to leashed and then supervised interactions with kids, but don't allow your dog unrestrained around young children until he is comfortable with them, both generally and individually.

Teach young children to respect a dog's territory. 
A few weeks ago, my daughter started to reach through a chain-link fence to pet a barking dog, but I immediately pulled her back and explained that she should never, ever do that. Children should be aware that dogs in parked cars, dogs on chains, and dogs behind fences are likely to attempt to defend their territory, even if they are normally very friendly. Explain to your child that a dog might see a child as a burglar trespassing into his home, and that even good dogs will bite if they think they need to defend their homes and families. Even a three- to four-year-old can likely understand this concept.

Instruct children to avoid strange dogs.

My daughter once saw a stray dog wandering the parking lot of our apartment complex and immediately asked to pet him. This was a perfect opportunity to tell her about the dangers of approaching unknown dogs. Remind your children that they should never attempt to pet a dog they do not know personally unless the owner is present and grants permission. A stray dog may be sick or aggressive. Without an owner to confirm that the dog is safe, a dog is best left alone or left for grown-ups to handle.

 Explain dogs' body language to kids.

Children can sometimes intuitively understand the body language of dogs, but you should still be sure to remind kids of how dogs communicate-- and to teach them to respect boundaries when the dog indicates it wants to be left alone. Describe the dog's language as your child interacts with him. "See how the fur on his back is raised? That means he's angry, so leave him alone," is an important lesson. Also point out to your child that most dogs don't like to be hugged, that they want to sniff a closed hand before being pet, and that they interpret eye contact as a threat. You can try role-playing as a dog to teach some of these important safety lessons.

 Don't be afraid to tell a child "no" when she asks to pet your dog. 
Suppose you have a sweet, friendly shih tzu who has never bitten anyone in her life, and a child at the vet's office asks to pet her. You may be nearly 100% certain that it would be safe, but your dog may react unpredictably to the stress of being in an unfamiliar place and meeting an unfamiliar person. The same applies when you are at the park or walking on the street. "Almost" certain isn't quite good enough when you're wondering if your dog can safely interact with a child. If you have any doubts, simply say no. Slight disappointment is far better for a child than serious injury.

If your dog is unusually aggressive or unfriendly toward children, it's a good idea to get in touch with your veterinarian and local animal control officers for advice on keeping your dog calm and avoiding confrontations with children. Schedule an appointment to talk with your veterinarian if you have specific concerns about your dog's behavior around kids.

5 Diseases Caused By Fleas

I'm pretty religious about knocking out fleas when I notice them on my pets, because I know fleas can be a pretty big problem. If you're a pet owner, you probably think of fleas the way most owners do: as a minor nuisance that can make your pets itchy and, in bad cases, can infest your home. Did you know that fleas on your pet are actually a much more serious problem than most people assume? Fleas can cause several diseases in pets as well as humans. Here are some of the common diseases caused by fleas: 

1. Allergic reactions

Both pets and humans can suffer from allergic reactions to flea bites. I have a flea allergy myself, so a flea bite will cause me to get hives and rashes if one of the little pests hops from a pet to me. Dogs and cats can also suffer pretty bad allergic reactions to fleas. I had one cat who suffered from severe milliary dermatitis (feline eczema) every time I missed a single flea treatment.

2. Anemia

My dog's vet told me a "horror story" a few weeks ago about a puppy mill in our area where many dogs had died from anemia because they had such severe flea infestations. After all, fleas feed red blood cells, and when you lose enough of those, you lose the ability to efficiently carry oxygen to the brain. Even pets who are treated for anemia will sometimes have lasting brain damage because of it.

3. Tape Worms

You know how your dog and cat nibble at their skin when they've got flea bites? Well, when they do that, they tend to also eat their fleas… And those fleas often have tiny tapeworms inside them, which then reproduce in your pet's digestive system. The tiny tapeworm inside one flea can turn into a disgusting parasite several feet in length-- yuck! The CDC recommends keeping fleas under control to avoid tape worm infections.

4. Plague

You want to avoid the plague… well, like the plague. Many people believe that plague is a thing of the past. While it's true that we not longer see epidemics of plague as we did in times gone by, it's still a problem. Plague is transmitted to humans through flea bites, and most cases these days happen to pet owners with flea infestations. Treating your pets and home for fleas will prevent this awful infection from striking you.

5. Murine typhus

Most common in the Southern states, murine typhus is carried by fleas, from both wild animals and pets such as cats or dogs. The most commons symptoms of murine typhus include backache, abdominal pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and a red rash. The worst symptom of this condition is the extremely high fever that it causes (of 105-106 degrees), which can last for weeks.

Fleas do more than just cause your pet discomfort (although your pet's comfort should be reason alone to make sure you get your pet treated for fleas). You don't want yourself, your pet, or any of your family members catching a potentially fatal disease from these irritating little pests.

Why Indoor Pets Need Rabies Shots

I admit that I'm one of the many people who, at first, was hesitant about getting my pets vaccinated for rabies. My cats never go outside at all, and my dog is only outside with my supervision. Besides, rabies is very rare. What's the big deal? It turns out that it is a big deal, for many reasons, to get your indoor-only pets rabies shots. Here are four reasons why!

1. It protects your pet from euthanasia. Even if your indoor-only pet is provoked (such as by a stranger invading your home or an aggressive dog at the park), he'll be in very hot water if he bites a person or another animal. Attorney Kenneth Phillips notes just how complicated even a provoked dog bite can be, and the importance of being able to produce shot records quickly. Your area's animal control service will need to hold him and many will euthanize unvaccinated pets on site. Even if your dog isn't euthanized, you'll find yourself at the center of a very troublesome legal battle if the authorities find out you have an unvaccinated animal.

2. You'll avoid a big fine. If your pet is ever impounded because he has wandered away from home-- something that can happen to indoor pets who simply bolt out the door-- you'll face a hefty fine in addition to the reclaim fee if you can't produce shot records. Many jurisdictions also require licenses for pets, which you can't get without a rabies vaccine. Dog expert Nicole Pajer states that you may need to pay as much as $250 to get your pet back if he's not licensed and ends up at Animal Control. Note that ordinances related to rabies vaccines don't make generally exceptions for indoor pets.

3. Your dog won't be killed. If your indoor pet gets out of the house, or is accompanying you on a camping trip or visit to the park, he may end up getting bitten by a wild animal such as a raccoon. If and when this happens, an unvaccinated animal will need to be immediately euthanized-- or, if you have thousands of dollars to spend, he'll need to be kept in lonely isolation for six months at your expense. That's no good!

4. It protects your dog and your family. About 300 cats and 50 dogs catch rabies in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control. Sure, that number is on the low side, but it means that rabies isn't a thing of the past. Since rabies is 100% fatal for pets and humans alike, even one death is too many. Indoor pets aren't automatically protected, as the 2012 incident of a rabid bat flying into someone's home shows. A vaccine can save your indoor-only pet in the unlikely, but possible, event that he escapes and is bitten by an animal.

Rabies vaccines often cost ten dollars or less, and may even be free depending on your income and your area. Call your vet today to make an appointment for your pet's annual rabies vaccine. It simple move that can save your pet's life! 

Best Portable Water Bottles for Dogs

Dogs can become dehydrated quickly after just a few hours in the park, especially on a hot, summer day, when they are likely to lose water quickly due to excessive panting. You can save your dog the discomfort and danger of dehydration by always keeping a supply of fresh water on hand for walks, park visits, and car trips.

Water bottles made just for dogs can sometimes be hard to find in stores, but they are widely available from online distributors.

Pet Top

Certainly the most unique of pet water bottle designs, the Pet Top is a patented bottle top that attaches readily to most standard water bottles. The water bottle can then be inverted, and the Pet Top will begin to behave as a fountain with adjustable flow. The speed at which the water is released into the bowl can be adjusted depending on your dog's needs and preferences.

Thirsty by Lixit

The Thirsty water bottle by Lixit is built so that it is nearly identical to a human water-bottle, but it has a sliding, half-pipe-style attachment that snugs against its side. The attachment slides outward, remaining connected to the bottle, and is instantly filled with fresh water, without a need for squeezing. The water bottle's mouth is wide enough to accommodate ice-cubes for extra hot days, and it can be rested on the ground for easy water access.

 Handi-Drink

With a design similar to the Thirsty, the Handi-Drink has a patented rubber spout that prevents leaking and spilling, and it also comes with its own belt clip and carrying strap. The Handi-Drink must be squeezed to release water, and its dispenser tray can not be rested on the ground like the Thirsty, owing to the physics of the product's design. Still, its patented system, which works wonders to prevent leaking and contamination, may be worth this minor setback.

Hydro-Go

The Hydro-Go offers an additional advantage over some similar products. Although heavier, it is also very durable, making it ideal for camping and long-range trips. The Hydro-Go is actually a stout canteen, with an attached fold-out bowl. The bowl can easily be filled with water from the canteen, or it can be used as a travel-ready food dish. The Hydro-Go can accommodate ice cubes, and it comes with a durable carrying strap.

 Water Rover

Unlike most other pet water bottles, the Water Rover is a single-piece design that does not need to be altered, slid, or taken apart before use. Its simple design comprises of a standard-sized water bottle with a dish attached to its lid. A valve can be opened quickly and with ease, so that the dish fills with water and quenches the dog's thirst. Although the bowl itself is small and does not take much extra room, the water bottle can continue to fill it until the dog is finished drinking.

Pet Safety Tips for Kids

Every year, dozens of children are injured-- or, rarely, killed-- by their own pets. From aggressive dogs to salmonella-carrying turtles, domesticated animals can pose a serious threat to the well-being of your child. My own preschool-age daughter has lived with several pets, from tropical fish to cats, but she understands all the rules of interacting with living animals.

Here are seven important tips to keep your child (and pet) safe.

1. Respect an animal's feelings.

Your child needs to know that it's unsafe (and cruel) to mistreat a living animal. Make sure that your child understands not to pull a dog's tail, dress up the family cat, or cram a gerbil into a sock drawer. Your child needs to respect an animal's feelings to avoid serious injury to the pet or the kid.

2. Read the animal's cues.

If a pet is growling, hissing or bristling its fur, your child needs to understand that this is a threat. Your child can stay safe by heeding these warnings and backing away if the animal displays these behaviors.

3. Do not harass an animal.

If an animal is eating or sleeping, your child should know to leave the animal alone. When bothered while eating or sleeping, many otherwise-docile animals will lash out and attack children.

4. Pet the right places.

Many children trigger an animal's aggression without meaning to do so. Teach your child to stroke the head, neck, back and sides of cats, dogs and rabbits. Although some dogs like to be rubbed on the belly, others do not. Most cats and rabbits will scratch or bite when stroked on the belly.

5. Avoid bacteria.

Do not buy a pet reptile for a a child under the age of twelve. Reptiles often carry salmonella, which is easily transmitted to young children. Some birds and amphibians can also carry salmonella. Teach your child to wash her hands after handling a pet, its bedding, or any used litter.

6. Avoid strangers.

Your child probably knows not to accept rides or candy from strangers. He should also know not to approach a dog or cat who he doesn't know. Teach your child that these animals may be sick or abused. They can either injure the child or transmit a disease. If your child does find a stray or injured animal, he should know to ask a grown-up for help before trying to "rescue" it.

7. Be responsible.

Teach your child the Golden Rule, even as it applies to animals. If she mistreats a pet, the animal is likely to remember and to retaliate, even later on. A pet will be a lasting, loving companion only if he is treated with respect and responsibility by the humans in his life.

Best Green Flea Control for Dogs

No dog-guardian likes the idea of smothering a beloved pet in harsh chemicals. However, we often feel forced to resort to the strong medicines used in conventional flea treatments. While it is certainly true that prescription flea treatments tend to be more effective than naturopathic products, there are plenty of green, nontoxic ways to repel and kill fleas. Here are some of the best green flea treatments for dogs.

Pennyroyal Oil

This is by far the most effective natural flea treatment available for dogs and cats. Pennyroyal, a member of the mint family, produces volatile compounds that work wonders to repel fleas, ticks, and other biting insects. Although considerably greener and less toxic than conventional flea treatments, pennyroyal oil is not safe for pets or people who are pregnant or have liver disease. Don't handle or use pennyroyal oil if either situation applies to you or your dog.

Other Fragrant Oils

Although pennyroyal is the most lauded and apparently effective green flea treatment for dogs, other highly fragrant oils can also be effective. I have personally had success using lavender, sandalwood and tea tree oils to repel fleas from my pets. I recommend using essential oils as a spot-treatment on the animal's neck or between the shoulder blades. The smell will send fleas running.

Garlic

Oral garlic tablets, sometimes combined with other ingredients such as brewer's yeast, have a reputation for repelling fleas. After just a few days of taking garlic capsules, dogs will begin noticeably smelling like the plant-- which will, according to many owners, make him taste bad to fleas. My vet told me that large amounts of garlic can cause anemia in dogs, though, so check with your vet to make sure you're using the right dose.

Borax

A nontoxic compound used frequently as a cleaning agent, borax has the power to kill fleas almost instantly with no harm to your pet. I once eliminated a flea infestation by sprinkling this on my carpets, leaving it overnight, and then vacuuming it up the next morning. You can also use borax in lieu of shampoo to bathe your dog. It's nontoxic, green, and highly effective in killing fleas.
For more help finding holistic, nontoxic, and natural solutions to flea control, get in touch with your veterinarian. 

What to Do if your Dog Gets Bitten by a Snake

Snake bites are not uncommon in dogs. Since dogs spend much of their time outside, often venturing into old sheds or peering under bushes, they are prone to accidental run-ins with snakes of all kinds. According to Drs. Foster and Smith, the majority of serious snake bites in dogs are caused by pit vipers, such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, and water moccasins. The head and neck are the most commonly bitten areas, since dogs may incite the snake bite by attempting to grab or bite the animal.

Dog owners may be inclined to take a wait-and-see approach to determine whether the snake was venomous or not, but this can be dangerous. Not only could it lead to lost time if the snake did inject your dog with venom, but a bite from a nonvenomous snake still warrants a vet visit to prevent infection. No matter what kind of snake bit your dog, it's important to do what it takes to keep your dog safe and healthy. If you know or suspect that your dog has been bitten by a snake, here's what you need to do.

1. Stay calm and keep your dog calm. Provide your dog with comfort and reassurance, especially if he appears to be panicked or in pain. If your dog moves or becomes excited, it will make his heart beat faster-- thus making the venom spread more rapidly into his body. If there is anyone in close proximity who can drive you to the vet, contact them immediately so you can keep your dog calm and comfortable while in transit to the vet's office.

2. Restrain your dog. This slows circulation to the site of the wound, making any venom slower to spread. If your dog's paw is injured, for example, you might hold it up above his body (taking care, of course, to avoid causing additional pain). Foster and Smith recommend loosely immobilizing the site of the bite, as well, to reduce circulation. If you create one without losing time, a makeshift splint or restraint can minimize your pet's movements. If possible, have someone sit with your dog while in transit to the vet's office to maintain the restraint and elevation.

3. Call your veterinarian. If possible, call your dog's vet to let her know you're on your way. If they are expecting you, they are more likely to be able to treat your pet quickly. They may recommend that you go to the nearest animal hospital for emergency treatment. Be prepared for the likely possibility that your dog will need to stay at the vet's office or animal hospital for some time, since he will need frequent observation to watch for the signs of toxin-induced kidney failure.

4. Don't attempt to treat it yourself. Home treatments for snake bites, such as tying off the bite, applying ice, and sucking out venom, are often ineffective-- and, when carried out by someone who isn't a professional, any snake bite treatment can do more harm than good. It also wastes precious time that you could be spending to get to the vet.

5. Remember your own safety. Never, ever attempt to find or kill the snake that bit your dog. You could very well end up in the same predicament as your dog-- and the snake's body will do no good in helping your dog get good treatment. Most vets don't carry species-specific antivenin, so identification isn't terribly important. Even a snake that appears to be dead could attack and poison you.

With prompt medical care, your dog's chances of surviving a snake bite are good, especially if the snake was non-venomous. It's important for dog-owners to immediately and knowledgeably react to these injuries to minimize risks to the dog's health and maximize his chances of a full recovery.

How Long Can My Pet Be Left Alone?

I love my animals, but deciding what to do with them when I leave town is always hard. One of the greatest inconveniences of pet ownership is dealing with your pets while you're on vacation or otherwise not at home . Given the cost of boarding, the relative invasiveness of hiring a pet sitter, and the impracticality of bringing your pet with you, it's not unreasonable to wonder if your pet can be left home unattended-- and for how long. The answer will ultimately depend upon what kind of pet you have and the animal's individual needs.

Here are some of the most popular pets and how long they can safely be left home alone.

Freshwater Fish

Freshwater fish can be left alone much longer than relatively high-maintenance pets. I have been keeping ornamental fish for years and have found that it's generally fine to leave them unattended for as long as one week. Most types of freshwater fish are well-adapted to survive during times of famine and mild to moderate fluctuations in water quality. Avoid "vacation feeders," since these are unnecessary and tend to degrade water quality (a much worse problem for your fish than brief famine). Be sure to perform water changes both before and after your vacation.

Saltwater Fish

Because the chemistry of a saltwater aquarium is more complicated than a freshwater aquarium and changes in lighting and chemistry can pose a bigger threat to these fish, it's best to leave your saltwater fish home alone no longer than 48 hours. Get in touch with aquarium stores in your area to get help with maintaining your saltwater tank in your absence.

Rodents

Rodents such as rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs tend to do just fine when their owners are away on vacation, provided they are left with a clean cage and copious amounts of food and water. In my experience, it's acceptable to leave adult rodents unattended for as long as five days. Leave several filled water bottles (far more than you think your pets will need) to minimize the possibility that they will run out of water. Be sure to clean the cage immediately when you return home.

Rabbits

I breed rabbits and have often had to deal with leaving my pets unattended for short periods of time when I've had to leave town. My two bunnies have always done just fine by themselves for periods of three days or less. I prepare for the trip by giving each bunny three twenty-ounce water bottles and several large bowls of water. Thus far, this amount has been more than sufficient for three days. Be sure to take your rabbit out of his cage and thoroughly clean it after returning home.

Birds

I talked to several friends who own birds to find out what the best course of action is for a bird whose guardians are on vacation. It seems that, because birds are so highly emotional and prone to separation anxiety, it's never a good idea to leave them completely unattended for more than a day. A bird needs to be boarded or left in the care of a qualified pet-sitter when its owners aer out of town.

Cats

Compared to many other animals, cats are fairly independent and can be left unsupervised for a decent period of time. I've left my cat unattended for as long as two days, provided with a clean litterbox, automatic feeder, and essentially limitless supply of water. According to my vet, cats who are even more independent than mine might be safe along for three days or more given an additional clean litter box and even more food and water.

Dogs

Unlike some household pets, dogs absolutely must be able to go outside to pee and poop-- meaning that they can't be left home alone for more than about 8-10 hours without risking an accident. Dogs are also prone to separation anxiety and need interaction from their guardians, so they may be traumatized by an extended period of time with no human interaction. If you're going out of town, your only real option as a dog owner is to leave your pet with a competent caregiver.

Of course, these requirements will vary depending on specific factors, like your pet's personality, your pet's health, and your willingness to deal with possible behavioral problems or messes when you return home. In general, hiring a pet sitter or boarder is the best bet for even a short trip-- but, if you must leave your pet at home unattended, it can be an option for short periods of time. Discuss and questions or concerns with your veterinarian before leaving your pet home alone. 

When is it okay to leave a dog in a parked car?

As the weather heats up, more and more pet-guardians are spreading the word about the serious dangers of leaving a dog in a parked car. Every year, thousands of dogs die of heat stroke when their owners leave them in parked cars for "just a minute." The ASPCA warns that the temperature inside a car can skyrocket from 85 degrees to 102 degrees in just ten minutes… even with the windows cracked! But if you're like me and you're one of those pet-parents whose pooch wants to ride everywhere with you, there might be times when you're tempted to leave your dog in a parked car. This is only okay in a few situations:

When the weather is very fair.

If temperatures are between forty and seventy degrees, you can safely leave your dog unattended in a parked car for a brief period of time. The ASPCA notes that temperatures inside a car can rise up to 20 degrees after ten minutes. However, my vet said that a dog is not generally at risk for heat stroke if he's in this comfortable temperature range, with the windows cracked, for less than ten minutes at a time. Of course, you also have to make sure that you meet the other safety requirements, even if the weather is okay.

When it really will be just a minute, and there's no chance of a delay.

My dog Maggie used to ride with me daily while I dropped my daughter off at school when the weather was fair. Since my daughter had to be signed in by a certain time, I knew I would always be able to get back to my pooch quickly-she was never unattended for longer than the amount of time that it took to sign in my daughter (often less than a minute). I'll also leave my dog in the car (within my line of sight) while I run into the gas station to pay for gasoline. But if you're going somewhere where it's possible or likely that you'll be gone more than five minutes.

When your dog is in excellent health.

Dogs who are very young, very old, or chronically ill are at the highest risk of heat stroke. Even if everything else is fine, you need to take special precautions for dogs who are fragile. An elderly dog or young puppy shouldn't be left in an unattended car for even a few moments because of the possibility of adverse health effects.

When you can provide cool, clean water in your absence.

Dogs pant to cool off the way humans sweat to cool off… But if your dog doesn't have enough water in his body, he can quickly become too dehydrated to keep his body temperature regulated, leading to heat stroke and death. If your dog is coming anywhere with you, he needs to have access to water the whole time, even in good weather.

When your dog has a short, light coat.

Dogs with thick coats, like the Great Pyrenees and the Alaskan malamute, are at high risk for heat stroke because of this heat-holding fur. Black-furred dogs are also at a higher risk than average because dark coats absorb more heat. Consider having your dog's coat trimmed during the summer as a general safety precaution if he has a very thick coat; otherwise he can easily become overheated.

When you can protect your pet from thieves.

Dog theft isn't as common as heat stroke when dogs are left alone in parked cars, but it does happen occasionally, especially to rare and expensive breeds. Make sure you lock your doors and crack your windows only an inch or two. (Rolling them down further could not only invite a thief into your car, but also give your dog a route to escape!) Even then, there isn't a guarantee that thieves won't take your dog, which is more reason to make sure you hurry back and keep your pet in your line of sight.

When you aren't violating your state's laws.

Many states have laws that forbid endangering dogs by leaving them in parked cars. Although you probably aren't breaking the law as long as you're taking all the safety precautions listed here, it's still best to check with your state and local regulations (listed here) to make sure you aren't legally endangering yourself as well as jeopardizing your pup.

You can be a responsible pet owner and still occasionally allow your pet to ride shotgun while you run very short errands, but it's important to take every possible precaution to ensure your pooch's health and safety in your absence. By making sure to keep your pet cool and safe, you can bring Fido along for a ride without putting him in danger of death by heat stroke.

White Chocolate: Generally Safe for Dogs!

I've noticed that gourmet dog treats often contain white chocolate. This surprised me at first, because most people over the age of five can tell you that chocolate isn't okay for dogs. It turns out that white chocolate's actually fine for dogs, unlike dark and milk chocolate, because it doesn't contain the compounds that make chocolate dangerous to them.

The reason that dark and, to a lesser degree, milk chocolate can endanger dogs is that cocoa is a potent source of methylxanthines, a class of caffeine-like stimulant that usually has little effect on humans but has a huge effect on some other mammals, especially dogs. Theobromine is the most potent of these. A small amount of theobromine- the amount in, say, a chocolate chip-- might only make a dog a little "hyper," but the amount in a dark chocolate bar is enough to cause seizures, rapid heart beat, diarrhea, coma, and death, according to the ASPCA.

White chocolate, on the other hand, doesn't generally contain theobromine or any other stimulant. If it does, they appear only in very small amounts. White chocolate is arguably not "chocolate" at all, but a mixture of cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, and cocoa butter lacks the stimulants that are found in actual cocoa.Your dog could eat a whole bar of white chocolate and not suffer any of the effects of methylxanthine poisoning, but a bar of dark or milk chocolate would put her in extremely grave danger. Dogs who have eaten "normal" chocolate usually need fairly immediate medical attention, but a dog who eats white chocolate, whether by accident or in a treat, is going to be just fine.

However, it's still not a good idea to let your pooch over-indulge on white chocolate, for the same reason that it wouldn't be a good idea for a person to eat it often. For one thing, since white chocolate can still contain trace amounts of theobromine, it's theoretically possible for an especially sensitive dog to get sick after eating a large amount of the stuff. White chocolate also has little "good" nutritional value to dogs; it has too much sugar and too much fat too be considered healthy. Too many treats containing this sugary confection lead to diabetes, tooth decay, and obesity. Dogs just aren't made to process that amount of fat or sugar, and their bodies don't handle it well if white chocolate is anything more than a very rare treat.

So, while it's fine to occasionally give your pet a white-chocolate-dipped treat, make sure to give them sparingly and feed your pet an otherwise balanced diet, and check with your vet before giving your dog white chocolate, since some very sensitive or very small dogs may not be able to tolerate it.There are many misconceptions about healthy diets for dogs and how "human" foods can play a role in your dog's meals, so it's always a good idea to touch base with an expert before altering your pup's diet. 

The Yellow Ribbon Program for Dogs

My border collie, Maggie, is great with one kid: my own. When it comes to almost every other kid, I wouldn't take chances. Maggie isn't aggressive, but she's got strong herding instincts built through generations upon generations of selective breeding, so, when she sees kids running around that don't smell like home, her instincts kick in and she wants to herd them. The result is that if a child she doesn't know approaches her quickly, he's likely to be met with a gentle nip on the hand. It's not enough to hurt, but it's also not something that I want my dog doing. The solution: Maggie now wears a yellow ribbon on her leash when we go for walks.

A yellow ribbon on a dog's leash means, "Don't pet me without asking." That's good advice to follow at any time, but some people need a reminder. Far, far too many children have run toward my dog without asking permission, and even some adults have done it. I always warn people to back away and give me a moment to calm her down before they pet her, but for those familiar with it, the yellow ribbon acts as a helpful visual reminder to ask permission before petting a dog.

The yellow ribbon program has been started by animal control centers all across the U.S. You can ask your vet or local animal control center if there's a yellow ribbon program in your area, and if they are doing anything to spread awareness about yellow ribbons. You yourself can print out flyers and spread the word at dog training centers and pet stores so more people will be aware of the yellow ribbon campaign. It's not only helpful to dogs and dog owners, but it's a good visual clue that reminds people of proper dog-petting etiquette.

There are many reasons that a dog might be donning a yellow ribbon, but it should never mean that the dog is "mean" or aggressive. These dogs need to be muzzled in public. It just means that you need to ask the owner before petting the dog. The dog may be wearing a yellow ribbon because she's recently had surgery, or she's in pain, or she's blind, or she's a puppy still in training, or she's very easily startled. In most of these cases, you can pet the dog, but you have to let the owner know first so he can introduce you to the dog safely.

When children have the common decency to ask before petting my dog, she's never, ever a problem. I usually give the child a treat and tell them to approach her slowly so she doesn't mistake them for wayward sheep. She eagerly takes the treat, wags her tail, and allows the children to pet her. She doesn't wear a yellow ribbon to say that she's dangerous; only to remind people to ask before petting her. Because I'd like to spread awareness about the campaign, I'll probably continue keeping a yellow ribbon on my dog's leash even after I've completely trained her out of her urge to nip fast-running kids.

So far, I've met few people who recognize the yellow ribbon, and most of them have been the types of people who know to ask permission before petting a dog anyway. However, I'm hoping that as awareness of the yellow ribbon campaign spreads, more people will start to recognize the ribbon and know what it means. This will make life easier not only for dog owners, but also for people who might unknowingly greet an unfriendly or disoriented dog.

Garlic for Heartworm Prevention

I'm both an animal lover and an advocate for green living, so, when it was time to pick out a heartworm preventative for my dogs, I felt like I was caught between a rock and a hard place. I didn't like the idea of feeding my dogs a pesticide every month, but I live in an area where the risk of heartworms is extremely high, and I didn't want to chance my precious pets catching such a serious condition. When I asked other pet owners for suggestions, many of them advised me to give my dogs garlic to prevent heartworms, but there are several reasons that pet-parents should avoid this popular natural remedy.

Garlic as a heartworm prevention would, in theory, prevent the parasites from infecting dogs by deterring mosquitoes. Advocates for "natural" heartworm prevention claim that garlic makes dogs' blood taste or smell unappealing to mosquitoes, which spread heartworms to dogs through their bites. In theory, a garlicky-smelling dog would have fewer mosquito bites and would therefore be at a lower risk of catching the parasites.

Unfortunately, there's no evidence that this method actually works. Garlic isn't an effective mosquito repellent. If it were, mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria wouldn't infect humans in areas where garlic is used heavily in food, such as India. We'd be able to hike without fear of mosquito bites by simply indulging in garlic bread before heading out. While there's a chance that massive amounts of garlic might affect the scent of a person or dog enough to repel mosquitoes, it certainly isn't a reliable technique.

There's another catch, too. To be effective, even theoretically, a dog would have to consume massive amounts of garlic on a daily basis, which would have very severe consequences for the dog. The ASPCA warns that garlic (as well as its relatives, like onion and leek) is potently toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Dogs who have eaten garlic might have symptoms like vomiting, weakness, panting, and a rapid heart rates. Over time, even doses of garlic too low to acutely poison the dog would break down the pooch's red blood cells, leading to a potentially fatal case of anemia. This is just one example of how often a natural remedy can be far less safe than its conventional counterpart.

The bottom line is that, while we green pet owners would love to be able to protect our precious pups without resorting to conventional heartworm prevention, this is one case where I'm willing to compromise "natural" for "safe" and opt for vet-approved treatments over natural remedies. All heartworm prevention medicines available through your vet have been thoroughly studied and found to be both safe and effective for preventing heartworms. If you have concerns about heartworm prevention, don't hesitate to talk to your vet for advice and reassurance.

Banning Unneutered Male Dogs Would Prevent Almost All Dog-on-Human Fatalities

If you heard that one kind of dog was responsible for 92% of fatal attacks on humans, you would most certainly want that kind of dog banned. Even those who generally judge dogs as individuals will tend to err on the side of human safety when people's lives are at stake. That's the very reason that breed-specific legislation (or BSL) has become very common in many jurisdictions, where stereotypically vicious breeds of dog, such as the pit bull terrier, have been outlawed. With 4.7 million dog bites occurring in the United States every year, it's time that we crack down on vicious dogs-but the solution isn't going to be in banning dogs because of the shape of their heads. We need to start banning dogs because of what's underneath their tails.

Banning the ownership of unaltered male dogs could save hundreds of lives every single year, and it would prove to be far more effective than legislation against specific breeds or mixes. Each year, of the people killed by dogs, a shocking 92% were butchered by males, 94% of whom were unneutered. Unneutered male dogs are much more aggressive toward both people and animals than neutered and female dogs, and it shows in the statistics of fatal dog bites. An unneutered male of even a "docile" breed, statistically, is much more likely to kill than a female dog of an "aggressive" breed, even if he is owned by a loving family.

As with breed-related stereotypes, there are other factors that come into play in these statistics. In general, responsible pet owners are much more likely to have their pets spayed and neutered. The same owners are more likely to focus on issues like training and socialization, and to know not to leave children or strangers unsupervised with their pets. On the other hand, irresponsible owners and people with poorly trained "guard dogs" and "outside dogs" tend to be less likely to have them neutered. It's still clear, though, that an unneutered male dog is much more aggressive than an unsprayed female from the same environment. At least part of the problem is in the nature, and not the nurture, of unneutered male dogs.

Banning unneutered male dogs would not only prevent as many as nine out of ten human deaths caused by dogs, but it would also help to bring a stop to the epidemic of pet overpopulation, which is claiming the lives of nearly three million innocent cats and dogs every year. Laws mandating neutering of all male dogs, perhaps with the exception of a few licensed breeders whose facilities have been inspected, would cut down tremendously on pet overpopulation and wouldn't be as difficult or expensive to enforce as laws mandating both spaying and neutering.

Advocates for banned breeds often proclaim that we blame the wrong end of the leash when it comes to legislation to reduce the number of aggressive animals. While that part certainly rings true, it's time that we stop denying that it's not just irresponsible ownership that leads to aggression: it's also the presence of unaltered male genitals. If we're going to get serious about ending dog-on-human violence, we need to start cracking down on people who own unneutered male dogs.

Border Collies Herding Kids? What to Do

"Baa," my six-year-old daughter insists, "I'm a sheep, and I'm going exactly where I'm supposed to go."

My border collie, crouched in a master herding position and giving her the "eye," follows the chid carefully for a few moments and, content that my daughter is where she's supposed to be, backs away. Of course, not every kid knows how to control my dog's herding instincts. When my daughter has visitors over, especially younger kids, the dog isn't allowed to play with them, and for good reason: a gentle nip on the ankle of a startled kid could quickly become an "attack" in the mind of the child, which could be bad news for both the child and the dog.

I'm not the first or last border collie owner who has tried to train my dog not to herd children. It's a problem that is universal to any home that has both collies and kids. Border collies were selectively bred over the course of hundreds of years to herd sheep and other livestock. Any good breeder will tell you that herding is not a trained behavior for border collies, although it can certainly be refined through training. It is in fact an inherited trait, programmed into her DNA along with the length of her fur and the color of her eyes. Border collies are born with an instinct to herd, whether their owners encourage it or not.

Some trainers, including those who have worked with my own nip-happy dog, say that because of this, it's absolutely impossible to train a border collie not to herd. It's part of the dog's nature, like barking and running and enjoying human company. There is no fair way to completely eliminate all herding behavior from a well-bred border collie, and even those who have been trained not to herd will still have unpredictable instincts that may kick in unexpectedly. Many a "good" border collie has been seized and euthanized for biting neighborhood children, despite having no history of aggression.

If you have a border collie and a young child, your best bet isn't to try to train the herding instincts out of your dog; that's a fool's errand. It's in your better interest instead to teach your children how to respond appropriately if the dog nips them. Many children will immediately run or scream when the dog lunges or nips at them, but this is counterproductive. It will make the dog instinctively bite harder to get this unruly "sheep" under control. Teach your children to calmly and firmly respond to nipping with an assertive, "No," and then reward your dog when she follows or "herds" children without mouthing them.

If your border collie does herd a child by nipping, divert your dog's attention elsewhere by giving her another, unrelated command, like "Find your ball," or "Sit," and reward her with a treat or praise when she successfully routes her attention elsewhere. If she continues herding children, stop the behavior with a firm, "No," and separate her from the kids. Understand that your goal isn't to turn off your dog's herding instincts-- those aren't going anywhere-- but instead to divert her attention in more productive ways.

Finally, while it's just fine for a kid who understands border collies to interact with a border collie who understands kids, bear in mind that children and dogs should never be left unsupervised. Even the best dogs with no herding instincts are prone to unpredictable behaviors, especially when they're confused or don't know the child, or when the child doesn't know how to behave calmly and respectfully around animals. As a general rule, dogs of all kinds (not just border collies!) need to be separated from youngsters except with direct adult supervision.