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10 Surprising Ways To Show Your Dog Love

February 20, 2021
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All dog parents know that our four-legged companions bring joy, happiness, and unconditional love into our lives and enrich it beyond imagination. How can you show your dog love? February 20 is designated day as “Love Your Pet Day.” A special day and an opportunity to show your love and appreciation to your dog. Here are ten amazing and surprising things you can do to show your dog you love him.

Love Your Pet Day! 10 ways to show your dog love

10 Surprising Ways To Show Your Dog Love

1. Bake a special homemade treat for your dog
Your pooch will be delighted if you bake something special. Nothing shows your appreciation more than a homemade treat made with yummy healthy ingredients and you can share with your dog too. The ultimate way to spoil your dog is baking a homemade dog cake which will make them feel very special indeed. Don’t have time to bake? A piece of cheese will definitely make your dog drool or an easy homemade Banana Strawberry Heart Shaped Ice Cream or plan to purchase a special treat from a pet bakery.

2. Gift your dog a special toy
A new toy is always really exciting for our furry friends. But a new toy with food inside is heaven on earth! Treat dispensing toys are not just innovative and fun, they keep your canine companion occupied for ages and give a pleasurable experience when the treat finally comes out. Treat dispensing toys aren’t just fun for dogs – watching them play with the new toy is more fun than TV! Also, taking your furry friend to a pet shop to try out different toys and then selecting his favorite one is the supreme gift for him.

3. Enjoy quality cuddle time
Spending time with your dog is the most cherished gift ever for your furry buddy. And he loves it, even more, when you’re on the same level as him. Sitting on the floor together can make him very happy as he has full access to you while sitting in your lap or just snuggling up to your side to get his never-ending tummy rub. Your four-legged friend will enjoy the cuddling just as much as you do. This is quality me-time without thinking about anything else – it’s simply for relaxation and feeling good.

4. Massage your dog
Massage is good for us and also for dogs! Many dogs love a gentle, full-body massage that incorporates all parts of the body from head to toe. It doesn’t only relax their muscles and relieve stiffness but also leads to the excretion of love and wellbeing hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins after only 5 minutes of interaction. This amazing additional benefit also helps to deepen your bond. Start practicing and massage your dog.

5. Dress up time
Some dogs love to dress up, either with a new bandana, shirt, or hair ribbon. They feel special and know they look really pretty. Therefore, it’s a great idea to buy a new stylish piece of clothing to shower your beauty queens and kings with your praise and love. But dressing up doesn’t just have to be buying a new outfit or bandana, it can even be a fancy new fur hairstyle; dogs like cocker spaniel, Bichon Frisées, or Maltese don’t mind going for a walk with ribbons on their fur. Style reigns and it’s fun, too, if your dog likes it. And the ultimate style is to go out in a matching partner look. Twinning in stylish outfits with your canine partner brings fun, joy, admiration, and delight.

6.Treat your dog to its favorite activity or experience
Your dog deserves its own ‘spa day’. Reserve a half-day for your dog and let him enjoy his favorite activity or experience – running in the garden or dog park, going for a hike, fetching a ball, or playing with your dog’s favorite toy over and over again. Some beauty-loving dogs prefer spa time with a bath and grooming and brushing afterward or even a shower in the garden. Find out what your canine companion likes most and give it to him. This is a great bonding experience for you and your furry partner and gives him real ‘me-time’ when he has his dog parent all to himself.

7. Teach them a new trick
Dogs love to learn new tricks. This great mental stimulation is good for both of you and helps you bond and is great fun too. Give him positive reinforcement with his favorite training treats. Your dog wants to please you, and this is the time for him to show his best efforts and for you to shower him with rewards, affection, and love. The more you praise him for learning the trick and performing it well, the more he feels that you love him and are proud of him. This is the perfect win-win situation for both of you.

8. Take your dog on a date
Take your dog on a play date with his favorite doggie friend. Each dog has his best friend – and meeting this bestie for a round of wild playtime is a great way to show your dog appreciation. It is also an enjoyable time for you and the other dog parents too. But what if your dog’s play date is busy? No worries – you can be his play date instead. Running around, throwing his toys, playing hide and seek – your dog will know how much you love and cherish him by joining him in having so much fun.

9. Take a drive or trip
Some dogs love to drive in a car. It’s a real highlight for them. Not just to see new things outside, but also to be with you makes it a special time. The ultimate treat is taking your furry friend for a trip to a favorite destination, may it be a road trip, countryside, or another town. This is pure excitement as dogs love new experiences. It brings new experiences and new sights that stimulate both your brains – and creates beautiful lasting memories and lovely photoshoots too.

10. Let’s make music together
Our four-legged friends appreciate music a lot. Although their taste in music may vary, plenty of our furry buddies enjoy music and relax when hearing it, especially when you play an instrument yourself such as the guitar. While some start sleeping happily, others want to join in and sing along. The ultimate bonding experience is howling together – no, I meant singing! – and this reinforces ancient instincts of living in dog packs. So, what more love can you give your four-legged partner than making your own music band with him. But don’t forget to warn your neighbors before starting your doggie musical soiree!

This list could go on and on. Let your dog feel that you love him every day and not just on “Love Your Pet Day”. He is your best friend and will never let you down. Cherish this beautiful relationship – you’ll never find a better one! Let your dog feel valued and appreciated as part of your family as he brings the sun into your life.

“The sun shines not from the sky, but from the look into my dog’s eyes!”

pet pill dog book

Golden Thanks to Dr. Margit Gabriele Muller for sharing these ways to show your dog love. Dr. Margit Gabriele Muller is a leading vet and award-winning author of Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories About How Pets Lead You to A Happy, Healthy, and Successful Life out now, available on Amazon (affiliate link)


Filed Under: Guest Post, TIPS
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5 Reasons Why Summer is No Vacation for Pets

June 7, 2016

While many pet owners are relaxing and having some fun in the sun, the summer season is no vacation for pets. According to Petplan pet insurance, pets are 6% more likely to visit the vet unexpectedly during the summer compared to the rest of the year!

Summer Pet Hazards

This is a guest post by By Dr. Kim Smyth, Petplan pet insurance Veterinarian. Golden Woofs only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. This post contains an affiliate link. Find simple, affordable Dog Insurance at Petplan.com

There are a number of common summertime pet health hazards, which could put a serious damper on your getaway fund and turn a trip to the beach into a trip to the vet. When you’re heading outdoors with your furry friend, be especially mindful of these top Five Reasons Pets Visit the Vet in the Summer:

Pet Health Summer Hazards

the heat is on
Watch out for heat-related conditions like heat stroke, dehydration and heat rash – especially in brachycephalic (or snub-nosed) breeds like Boxers, Bulldogs and Pugs. These pups are twice as likely to visit the vet for heat-related conditions than non-brachycephalic breeds. Signs of trouble include heavy panting, lethargy and a staggering gait. Keep pets cool by providing plenty of fresh water and shade when romping outside, and never leave them in a parked car.

beware the buzz
Pets are twice as likely to suffer an insect sting during the summer compared to the rest of the year, and bees are to blame for 25% of these incidents. Stings can cause mild symptoms like redness and swelling, or more serious reactions like anaphylaxis (allergic shock), which requires immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing and vomiting.

skin deep
The risk of skin infection is 16% higher during summer months, and can be caused by a number of things such as allergies, extra moisture from swimming or humidity and pests like fleas. Look for itchy, irritated skin or lesions, and keep an eye out for extra scratching or licking that could indicate an issue.

grapes of wrath
Vet visits for grape and raisin toxicity are 40% higher during the summer. The average cost to treat grape and raisin poisoning is $756, but one Petplan-protected pup faced a hair-raising vet bill of $3,035! These fruits can cause acute kidney failure if ingested, and signs include vomiting, increased thirst, and diarrhea. If you suspect your pet ate a grape or anything grape-related, such as wine or oatmeal raisin cookies, call the vet right away. Customize a pet insurance policy to fit your budget at Petplan.com!

gobbling cobs
Corn cob ingestions are seven times more likely in the summer, and 70% of all corn cob ingestions occur between June and August. Corn cobs can get lodged in a dog’s intestines or stomach if eaten, which sometimes requires surgery to remove it. Clear plates at the end of dinner and keep trash bags contained so they don’t tempt the resident chow hound.

avoid vet this Summer

Even during the dog days of summer, pay attention to how your pet acts and feels and know what’s normal for them. If they show signs of anything unusual, take a trip to your vet. You’ll both be back to lounging poolside in no time!
Have a Safe and Fun-Filled Summer!

Top Rated Pet Insurance


Filed Under: Dog Health, Guest Post, Summer, Summer n Dogs

Amazing Benefits of Autism Service Dog

March 4, 2016

We are delighted to feature an article written by Kathleen Carter, a teen living with Asperger’s Syndrome. Kathleen shares the benefits of having Molly, an autism service dog.

After much anticipation, I was able to bring, Molly, my autism service dog home a couple of weeks ago. Molly has already changed my life in many positive ways, so, it’s hard to believe that just a couple of years ago, I had never even heard about autism service dogs.

At the time, I was in middle school and was really struggling. I was having difficulty making friends at school and was being regularly bullied by two of my fellow students. My self-esteem was very low, and the anxiety and stress I was feeling at school were making some of the negative behaviors associated with my Asperger’s even worse.

My mom began researching ways to help me, and she came across autism service dogs. I’ve always liked animals—sometimes it’s easier being around them than people!—so my mom thought this might be a good option for me. She put me on a waiting list with a training organization, and the rest is history!

Today, Molly and I are already great companions. Here are a few other ways she’s benefiting me.

Benefits of Autism Service Dog

My social skills are improving. Surprisingly, one of the quickest results I noticed was that with Molly by my side, I found it easier to talk with people. They can act as a “social bridge” for their humans, serving as a point of connection so that it’s easier to make conversation with others, and that has definitely been the case for me. In fact, she has already helped me make a new friend at school. One day a curious classmate asked me about Molly. I told her about my Asperger’s and how Molly helps me navigate certain situations. Because I was comfortable talking about Molly, it was much easier for me to connect with my classmate, and we discovered that we have other things in common. We’ve been eating lunch at school together, and I really don’t think it would have happened without Molly.

I feel more independent. Service dogs can help prevent eloping, and while that isn’t a problem for me, I have experienced a similar result. In public, I’ve never felt the urge to runaway, but when I get overwhelmed, I do shutdown. I sort of retreat inside myself, and it’s difficult for me to express what I need in those moments.

For example, before Molly, I found it very difficult to be in a grocery store. Whenever I would go to try and help my mom, the bright lights and crowds of people and carts would be overwhelming to me. Usually, those trips to the store would end with my mom escorting me back to the car so that I could sit in the quiet. But now, I’m actually able to help her out. With Molly by my side, I feel comfortable going and grabbing items on our list. She has really given me a sense of independence!

She keeps me calm.I’m an avid swimmer. And I got into swimming because it’s a great way for kids on the spectrum to decrease stress and take advantage of the water’s soothing qualities. Unfortunately, swimming can’t help keep me calm in every tricky situation…but I’ve discovered that Molly can!

The other day I had a medical appointment at a place I had never been before. The doctor’s office was in a large building with multiple stories. Elevators are next to impossible for me. Even without people, they make me very anxious and uncomfortable, but a crowded elevator can send me into a meltdown. So, usually I take the stairs, but on this particular day, my dad and I were running late, so the elevator was the only option. As my dad and I got on, I could tell that he was just as nervous as I was, but thankfully, Molly sensed our nerves! I kept my hand on her fur the whole time, and at one point she jumped up and put her legs on me to let me know she was there. It wasn’t easy, but it was the most successful elevator ride I’ve ever had!

Service dogs keep children on the autism spectrum safer. Many of the benefits Molly provides me contribute to my mental health, but I do think it’s important to acknowledge how these animals can keep children on the autism spectrum physically safer. I touched on the fact that they can prevent wandering. Sometimes children wake up at night and wander while their parents are sleeping. An autism service dog can help prevent this very dangerous situation by barking to wake up the parents or by circling the child to make it more difficult for them to leave their room, home, etc. So, while I’m certainly grateful that Molly helps me feel more comfortable in the world, I truly love what these dogs do to prevent other kids like me from experiencing physical harm. They are literally life savers!

My time with Molly is just beginning, but it’s already difficult for me to imagine being without her. For any parents considering an autism service dog, I recommend having your child spend some time around regular dogs, first. If they tend to bond well with animals, then I think they’ll see great results with a service dog. Molly as already impacted my life in so many positive ways that I think many other children on the autism spectrum will have great experiences too!

We wish Kathleen the very best and Molly, her autism service dog. Kathleen enjoys writing and proudly educate others about her Asperger’s Syndrome journey. She is grateful for the volunteer opportunity to write for EducatorLabs.

Sites for Additional Resource:
4 Paws For Ability
The Life-Changing Impact of Autism Service Dogs
Stress & Anxiety Reduction | Autism Research Institute
How to Handle the 4 Most Challenging Autism Behaviors
A Parent’s Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder
National Center for Autism Resources & Education


Filed Under: Guest Post, TIPS

Pets are Joys, Not Toys: Animal Companions & Holiday Gift-Giving

December 4, 2015

Guest Post by: Deborah Kaufman

When my husband Jim was 8 years old, he raced down the stairs on Christmas morning to find his new puppy, Buffy, sleeping peacefully in a soft dog bed, surrounded by cozy blankets and a small, ticking clock, to mimic the pup’s mother’s heartbeat. Jimmy jumped for joy, squealed, and gently pet the sleeping puppy. And the two live happily ever after: Buffy was a strong addition to the family, and remained a loyal, loving companion for 16 years.

While it would be great if all holiday surprises always worked out so well, that’s often not the case. More frequently, 8-year-old Jim, who would have been too young to know what caring for a pet really means, may have balked at walking the dog, and howled the first time Buffy bit him on the hand while the two were rough-housing. Often the scenario is that frustrated Mom and Dad then pile Holiday-Surprise Puppy Buffy into the car and drop her off at the local animal shelter, along with the estimated three to five million other dogs and cats returned to shelters each year…after the glow of the holiday season has faded.

Gary Richter
Gary Richter, MS, DVM | owner and medical director of Montclair Veterinary Hospital and Holistic Veterinary Care in Oakland, California.

Experts agreed that pets should never be an impulse purchase. According to Veterinarian Gary Richter, “When you take on a pet (either a dog or a cat) you are taking on 10 to 20 years of responsibility. That is an unfair burden to give to someone without their knowledge. What I recommend is to give pet supplies with a card that states that if they want to select a pet from a shelter you will pay for it. That way, the person receiving the gift makes the decision to have the pet and to take on the responsibility of owning a pet, plus, they get to choose what pet suits their lifestyle.”

Animal Companions & the WOW Factor

German Shepherd Rescue Orange County
German Shepherd Rescue Orange County (GSROC) | located in Newport Beach, California, is volunteer-driven non-profit organization, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing German Shepherds.

Maria Dales is the founder of German Shepherd Rescue Orange County (GSROC), located in Newport Beach, California, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing German Shepherds. Dales explains, “There is still a disturbing trend toward ‘surprising’ children with pets as a “WOW” factor holiday gift.  Many reputable rescue groups suspend the placement of puppies and kittens during the holiday season, suggesting that families opt for a gift certificate instead. That way, that they can choose a new family member together, after the hoopla of the holiday season subsides.”

According to Dales, “Sadly, every year, January brings us calls from parents telling us that they didn’t think it through when they got a Christmas pet, or from senior citizens who say that they were presented with a puppy that they didn’t want and have no ability to care for. There are always those post-holiday calls from parents who tell us that their daughter was given a puppy by her boyfriend, without the parents’ approval, so the puppy has to leave immediately. This happens more often than you might think!”

Pets selected as holiday gifts are exciting in the instant, says Dales, but not valued over the long term. “The danger of pets as an impulse decision is that when the reality of day-to-day care and ongoing expenses set in, will the thrill turn to regret, or even worse, resentment? Parents who think that surprising their children with a pet as a holiday gift are sending a bad message, putting living, sentient creatures at the same level as inanimate objects. They miss an important opportunity to take their child to the local animal shelter; adopt responsibly; and give an animal companion a good home. In this way, children can participate in and enjoy the happiness of adding a family member, regardless of what date it is.”

Animal Companions: It’s a Family Affair

Dr. Aubrey Fine
Dr. Aubrey Fine | AAI [Animal Assisted Intervention] pioneer, author, professor at California State Polytechnic University; and licensed psychologist. He is the author of multiple books, including Our Faithful Companions: Exploring the Essence of Our Kinship with Animals (2014), which examines why we create life-long, enduring bonds with our companion animals.
Dr. Aubrey Fine, Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) pioneer, author, professor at California State Polytechnic University; and licensed psychologist, agrees that caring for an animal companion can and should involve the entire family, especially committed and responsible parents. In his book, Our Faithful Companions: Exploring the Essence of Our Kinship with Animals (2014), Dr. Fine explores why we create enduring bonds with our companion animals; and the role that animals have in promoting a warmer and kinder world. Throughout the book, Dr. Fine weaves in powerful anecdotes of people who have been affected by their interactions with animals, as well as scientific evidence to support the importance of the bond. Chapters on choosing the right pet, children and pets, and considerations for parents, are accompanied by helpful charts to help you make the right choices for your family.

“While children can help with age-appropriate responsibilities, pets also require the support of adult caretakers, “ explains Dr. Fine. “Children must be reminded that their pets are very dependent on the family for care. The entire family must realize the responsibilities that it takes to have a pet join the family. Even the most eager and bright youngsters typically don’t have the strength, attention span, self-discipline and physical strength to care for a dog on their own.”

“Older children may initially have good intentions,” says Dr. Fine, “but may redirect their time and attention to other social activities, friends, school, sports and eventually dating and planning for college. In this manner their engagement may drift from supporting a pet which will need their attention and nurturing.”

Dr. Fine explains, “Unlike other holiday presents, owners cannot put the pet away in the attic after the novelty wears off. In nearly all cases, parents must be considered as the primary caretaker. Parents should think of strategies to keep children engagement including teaching them better ways to interact with their new family member. By teaching family members that their relationship with their new pet must be nurtured, parents may get a better buy-in from the entire family.”

“When families make plans to adopt an animal, they must take into consideration their lifestyle and a ‘goodness of fit’ to their family. Then, the new pet’s integration may become more smooth and successful,” says Dr. Fine.

Guidelines: Animal Companions & Families

If and when a family makes a deliberate and informed decision to take on the forever responsibility of an animal companion, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends using the following guidelines. Guidelines stress that parents must be ready and eager to assume the life-long care for the animal. This is especially important during the holidays and other busy times:

Under 3 – Focus on introducing your infant or toddler to your current pets. It’s not appropriate to bring in a new pet at this point.
3 to 5 – Guinea pigs are a good choice, as they like to be held, seldom bite and will whistle when excited or happy. Your child can help fill the water bottle or food dish.
5 to 10 – Choose shelf pets like mice, rats or fish. Kids can help clean cages with adult help, though you must always check to ensure that pets have food and water, and cages are secured.
10 to 13 – Your child, in partnership with a responsible adult, is now ready for the responsibility of a dog, cat or rabbit. Your child can help feed the pet, walk the dog, clean the rabbit cage and clean the cat litter, but you must always check to be sure pets have everything they need. Participation in dog training classes is an excellent learning opportunity for children.
14 to 17 – Your child may have more activities competing for his time and less time to spend with a pet. Birds or aquariums are a good choice. Remember, you will have the pet once they leave to go to college.

Experts recommend adopting animal companions from animal shelters, rescue organizations, friends, or family – not from places where the source of the animal is unknown or untrusted, such as puppy mills.

How to Properly Pick Out a Holiday Pet

Operation Kindness
Operation Kindness | Jim Hanophy, CEO of nonprofit Operation Kindness, the largest no-kill animal shelter in North Texas, is pictured, dressed up as Santa for the shelter’s annual “Photos with Santa” Fund-Raising Event. Hanophy explains, “Each year pet parents bring their dogs and cats; and whole family poses for photos. All proceeds benefit Operation Kindness.”

Jim Hanophy, CEO of Operation Kindness, the largest no-kill animal shelter in North Texas, thinks pets can make perfect presents for the holiday season, if parents give careful and responsible forethought. Hanophy offers the following advice to would-be adopters on how to properly pick out a pet for a holiday gift:

Selection & Fit – If an adult wants to give another adult a pet, then we recommend they pick it out together.  “Whoever is going to be the main caregiver should be involved in selecting their pet. This helps ensure that the person is invested in and prepared for the responsibilities involved, and it allows pet and owner to start bonding right away, “ said Hanophy.

“The situation is a little different for parents who want to bring home pets for their children because the parents usually end up being the main caregivers,” explained Hanophy. “However, when children are part of the adoption and decision-making process, they are more likely to feel a greater sense of responsibility for their pets and take a more active role in their care. By purchasing a gift certificate for adoption, the parents are able to include their children in the adoption process. “

Age of Animal Companions – Keep in mind the age of the pet. “Kittens and puppies generally have more energy and need to play more often than adults. If the person adopting does not have enough time or energy to commit to playtime, then that person may prefer a more mature cat or senior dog,” said Hanophy.

Breeds & Needs – Hanophy explains that “Size, breed and grooming habits should be factored in to the decision. For example, some dog and cat breeds require more grooming or exercise than others; some are better with children than others; and some are more adaptable to change. Before adopting, people should think about their family’s lifestyle and make sure the pet is a good fit.”

Other Gift-Giving Options

Other holiday gift options are available at local shelters, ranging from Gift Certificates; to Shelter Donation Support Programs, which can help defray medical, food and costs and other associated expenses that shelters typically shoulder. For example, at Operation Kindness, they offer:
Gift certificates for a pet – this allows the recipient to receive a gift on the holiday and the chance to participate in the adoption process. Each gift certificate covers the adoption fee of a dog or cat and comes with a food bowl and accessories. The gift certificate is valid for 90 days after the initial purchase to ensure that the perfect pet is available.
Happy Tails Society Memberships – for those who are passionate about animals but are not looking to adopt, a membership to Happy Tails Society provides a monthly gift to help pay for medical care, medicine, food, shelter, nurturing, and behavior training, and anything a pet needs to have a second chance at life. This monthly gift starting at $19 a month saves lives all year long. The recipient will receive a one of the kind holiday card featuring an animal from Operation Kindness, information about their membership, a Happy Tails Society decal and monthly e-newsletter featuring a Happy Tail of how their membership is making a positive impact.

Check with your local animal shelter, to explore donation programs that could spread holiday cheer by helping to support the shelter’s mission.

Research & Preparation Is Key, Regardless of the Date on the Calendar

Camp Bow Wow
Camp Bow Wow | Heidi Ganahl, CEO of Camp Bow Wow, a growing pet care franchise, is pictured with several of her canine clients.

According to Heidi Ganahl, CEO of Camp Bow Wow, a growing pet care franchise that specializes in dog daycare, boarding, training and in-home pet care, “Individuals and families thinking of getting a pet should research, prepare and then, when the time is right, seek a pet that realistically complements their lifestyle, schedule and energy level,” since many people do not have the time, energy or money to care for a dog over the long term.

5 benefits to pet adoption, once a family has done their due diligence

1. General Benefits – There’s a reason that they say dog is man’s best friend. Having a pet, not limited to dogs, is something that everyone should experience at some point in their life. Pets can be calming, mood lifting, empathetic, and so much more. They teach you how to be selfless and responsible as you are caring over another life (for those of you without children).  Generally speaking, they make you happy.

2. Save the Life of a Shelter Pet – Only 29% of cats and dogs are adopted from shelters; the rest are left to live in the rescue centers or, worse – euthanized. Bottom line: Adopting a pet saves their life. Give a dog or cat a home they wouldn’t have otherwise.

3. Stress Reduction – Some studies show that people begin to feel less anxious after spending less than an hour with an animal. There are endless benefits from lowering your stress level and while the things that we find stressful in our lives are often hard to cut out, including an animal in your life can help.

4. Helps with Depression – In some cases, therapists suggest to patients suffering from depression that they adopt a pet. An animal will love you unconditionally and also be a great friend and listener. People with depression often benefit from having a pet, as the animal can help them get out of the house and out of their own head.

5. Engaged Mind – A key to a healthy mind, especially for those who are elderly, is staying engaged with others. A pet is often a conversation-starter; and being outdoors with a pet often invites questions or comments from passersby. Bringing your dog to a dog park is a great way to meet other people with similar interests.

Ganahl urges would-be adopters to make sure that they are financially ready for this responsibility. “A new pet can go from ‘free-to-a-good-home’ to several thousand dollars,” she explains. “A budget must be set not only for the upfront cost of taking the pet home, but also for immediate follow-up costs like veterinary check-ups, a training crate and pet obedience classes. Also keep in mind that your pet will need to be fed and groomed and will also need chew toys and additional supplies like food bowls, a dog bed, brushes, leashes, etc.  Also keep in mind the necessary chunk of money needed for veterinary emergencies. You might also think about getting pet insurance for your new family member to help keep the cost of veterinary bills more affordable.”

Don’t Forget About the Cats

Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats
Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats | nonprofit, 100% street cat rescue in Los Angeles. Pictured: Kitty Bungalow Cat Rossier, who was rescued from the USC campus in Los Angeles.

According to Shawn Simons, the Founder and Headmistress at nonprofit organization Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats, a 100% street cat rescue in Los Angeles, “Christmas is a crazy busy time for us with adoptions. Often I feel like I am working at the GAP and people are grabbing at sweaters on Christmas Eve, but in this case they are kittens on the table. Even with the frenzy, I have to say, I am absolutely pro this idea. In October, we were smack dab in the middle of another holiday adoption controversy with Halloween and black cats. I feel the same about that.”

Simons explains that “the onus is on us – the adoption organization – to understand people well enough, to ask the right questions, to counsel but pre and post adoption to know that this is the right match for the right house. That said, we are a very progressive organization.  We don’t throw up impossible road blocks prior to adoptions, we don’t do home checks–but we do train our adoption counselors well and spend time with adopters in conversations and help to find them the right match.”

“In terms of the holidays,” says Simons, “for the most part it is parents coming to fulfill the wishes of their children.  They are the adults and the decision-makers.  Everything you need to know about the situation is right in front of you.  What we don’t do is let boyfriends, sisters or other relations take the plunge for another adult decision-maker.  For that we provide a Christmas special where the adult gets a kitten photo under the tree and gets to come to the Bungalow to pick out their kitten.”

Wrapping Up This Holiday Tail: Happy Endings

Buying an animal companion for a holiday surprise can be a surprising mistake, especially if you haven’t thought it through. Instead of buying a puppy or kitten as a surprise gift, give books on pet selection, training, care, health and diet, and individual breeds. Videos and subscriptions to pet magazines and newsletters also are good choices, as are stuffed animals and donations to your local shelter.

These presents are appropriate ways to introduce the commitment and the joys of adopting an animal companion. It’s a decision that everyone in the household should make together. Careful forethought and planning will benefit everyone – the gift giver, the family and the deserving animal.

Thank you to Deborah Kaufman. Deborah regularly blogs about Pet Health and General Healthcare Issues/Trends. You can follow her on Twitter @debhealthcare, and view her blog at healthcareprcommunications.blogspot.com


Filed Under: Guest Post, Pet Holiday Tips

Animal-Assisted Therapy: Is Medicine Going to the Dogs?

June 19, 2015

Deborah Kaufman I’ve served as a volunteer at a no-kill animal shelter and in the patient care department of a local hospital. I’ve seen first-hand how the human-animal bond raises spirits, aids in healing, and transforms lives. Anecdotal observations and clinical studies back-up how animal-assisted therapy can help healing and lessen depression and fatigue. So, is medicine going to the dogs? Yes, and in a positive way. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is gaining acceptance in healthcare clinical settings, in private therapy practices, seniors living with Alzheimer’s, students with literacy challenges, patients in recovery, people with intellectual disabilities and those approaching end of life; and in helping wounded military to heal from physical and emotional damage. I spoke with several experts in this field, to better understand what’s behind this growing trend.

What is Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) & Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)?

Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) is a broad term that includes Animal-Assisted Therapy and other Animal-Assisted Activities. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a growing field that uses specially-trained and certified dogs or other animals, paired with a specially-trained human partner, to focus on a specific goal: to help people recover from or better cope with health problems, such as heart disease, cancer and mental health disorders. The ASPCA points out “therapy animals are not service or assistance animals and are not granted the same legal rights of access.”

Animal-Assisted Therapy have a more general purpose, such as providing comfort and enjoyment for nursing home residents.

Animal-Assisted Intervention
Operation Kindness has made about 4,387 animal-companion adoptions so far this year, and deploys creative ways to find homes for hard-to-place animals. Squeaks [pictured] has early-stage renal failure. When the residents of a local assisted living center heard about Squeaks, they made a home for her (as well as hundreds of blankets!)
Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) may be provided in a variety of settings, may be group or individual in nature, and may be implemented for persons of any age.

How Does Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) Work?

Dr. Aubrey Fine is an AAI pioneer, author of several books, professor at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, and licensed psychologist whose practice specializes in treating children with ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental disorders and parent child relations. He also serves on the Board of Directors at Pet Partners, a national nonprofit, that registers handles of multiple species as volunteer teams, providing animal-assisted interactions. Dr. Fine’s successful use of therapy animals in treating children is documented in “The Handbook on Animal Assisted Therapy” (now in production for the fourth edition: Elsevier/Academic Press, 2015).

Dr. Aubrey Fine
Dr. Aubrey Fine | AAI pioneer, author, professor at California State Polytechnic University; and licensed psychologist; pictured with Magic

Dr. Fine describes one of his pediatric cases, 5-year-old Diane, who, though she spoke at home, she was “selectively mute” and refused to speak to anyone else, including her kindergarten teacher.

A trained therapy dog named Puppy helped the child to break her silence. As Diane was petting Puppy, Dr. Fine gave the dog a signal to walk away. Seeing the girl’s distress, Dr. Fine told her that all she had to do to get the dog to return was to say, “Puppy, come.” Softly, the child said, “Puppy, come, please come, Puppy.” That incident became the breakthrough that Dr. Fine needed to help the child.

“Children are more likely to reveal inner thoughts to the therapist because the animal is right next to them and helps them express themselves,” Dr. Fine explained.
In early work in a social skills program for kids with ADHD, Dr. Fine found that they could be more easily taught how to behave calmly if allowed to handle his pet gerbil. “I realized this approach can have a tremendous impact in teaching because it helps to change how we relate to other beings,” he said.

Three Theories on Why We Connect with Animals

Dr. Fine explained three theories on why we connect to animals. These include:
1. Love. The love we feel with animals, that makes us connect. They bring to us a level of social support. When we come home, animals greeting you, making you feel wanted.
2. Attachment – just like infants are attached to their parents, we turn to animals because we like to be caregivers.
3. Biophilia – our love for the living environment, a biological pre-disposition to engage with the environment, a familial love and our commitment to engage with another species, that makes the bond incredibly strong

Who Can Benefit from Animal-Assisted Therapy?

Animal-assisted therapy can significantly reduce pain, anxiety, depression and fatigue in people with a range of health problems:
– Children having dental procedures
– People receiving cancer treatment
– People in long-term care facilities
– People hospitalized with chronic heart failure
– Veterans with post-traumatic stress
It’s not only the ill person who reaps the benefits. Staff at hospitals/healthcare facilities and family members and friends who sit in on animal visits say they feel better, too.
Animal-assisted therapy is also being used in nonmedical settings, such as prisons, universities and community programs, to help people deal with anxiety and stress.

Animal-Assisted Therapy: Clinical Studies

Hal Herzog, PhD, is a Professor of Psychology at Western Carolina University, an award-winning teacher and researcher, who has been investigating the complex psychology of our interactions with other species for more than two decades.

According to Dr.Herzog, “The idea that interacting with animals can heal our broken minds and bodies is certainly appealing, particularly for those of us who love pets. But is there a mismatch between the media coverage of AAT and the evidence that these therapies actually work?”

Dr. Herzog points out the good news: the overwhelming majority of published studies have reported that animals make excellent therapists. He cites, for instance, Maggie O’Haire of Purdue University, reviewed 14 clinical trials on the effects of AAT on children suffering from autism spectrum disorders.

“Together, these studies measured 30 different outcomes variables. The results were impressive. All of the studies found that AAT was effective. Indeed, children with autism who underwent AAT showed, in stat-speak, “statistically significant” improvements on 27 of the 30 outcomes measures.”

Dr. Herzog cautions that while the Animal-Assisted Therapy Research study results sound great, the research has common flaws. In an article he wrote for Psychology Today, these flaws include:
-Lack of a non-treatment control group.
-Insufficient numbers of subjects.
-No controls for effects of novel experiences (e.g., swimming with dolphins).
-No written manual spelling out the treatment procedures (important for standardization and replication).
-No use of “blind observations” to control for unconscious bias on the part of the researchers.
-Reliance on self-reports rather than objective measures.
-Lack of long-term follow-up studies.
-Putting a positive spin on negative results (e.g., “While interacting with the therapy dogs did not actually decrease the patients’ symptoms, the participants reported that they enjoyed interacting with the animals.”).
-Cherry picking (only presenting the results for variables that worked)

Dr. Herzog points to researchers such as Alan Beck, the Director of the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University, who is a pioneering researcher who helped establish the field of anthrozoology. In 1984, along with his colleague Aaron Katcher, he published the first review of studies on AAT.

“In that paper, Beck and Katcher warned about the state of research purporting to demonstrate the effectiveness of animals as therapists. They argued that investigators needed to carefully separate the feel-good temporary recreational benefits of interacting with animals from the long-term clinical benefits of AAT. And they were particularly concerned that too many enthusiastic investigators were asking “How can I demonstrate the therapeutic effect of pets?” rather than the more appropriate question, “Do pets have a therapeutic effect?”

According to Dr. Herzog, ”Unfortunately, despite the media hype and 30 years of research on therapy dogs, dolphins and horses, Beck and Katcher’s warning is nearly as true today as it was in 1984. However, things are improving on the research front.”

Dr. Herzog noted that the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition [Mars Petcare] and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development initiated a grant program in 2008 that has provided over $9 million for research related to human-animal relationships. “Already these funds have begun to pay off in terms of better AAT studies,” he explained.

Does Animal-Assisted Therapy Have Risks?

The biggest concern, particularly in hospitals, is safety and sanitation. Hospitals and other facilities that use AAT have stringent rules to ensure that the animals are clean, vaccinated, well-trained and screened for appropriate behavior. Hospitals also have strict admission processes for volunteers. There are often background checks, volunteer orientations, volunteer training, and health screenings a handler must pass before they are permitted to volunteer.

Common guidelines at a hospital/healthcare facility include:

– Safety is always a consideration when working with animals. Volunteer handlers will have undergone the necessary preparation, training and registration or certification to have the animal properly screened and trained. The animal should be up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and in good health. Organizations providing AAT should be able to validate this information.

– Some patients are afraid of animals, particularly large ones. Volunteer handlers are trained to assess the willingness of the patient to participate in AAT.

– Allergies are another aspect to consider, and volunteer handlers ensure that a patient isn’t allergic to a particular animal before engaging in AAT

– Those with behavioral health issues can benefit from AAT, and are monitored to ensure the safety of both animal and client.

– Patients with reduced immunity – individuals with cancer, HIV/AIDS, patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation, those on high-dose steroids and other immune-suppressive medications – need clearance from their physician before participating in AAT.

The most common AAT animals in a hospital setting are dogs. Depending on the facility, some allow cats and bunnies. Check with your healthcare facility on their specific regulations and policies. Guidelines released in 2015 from the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) recognizes that while hospital policies on animal visits vary widely among institutions, SHEA doesn’t recommend that cats serve as AAT at hospitals [see article: https://www.livescience.com/50011-pet-therapy-hospitals-dogs-cats.html].

Animal-Assisted Therapy In Action

Hospitals
Animals are being used more and more in clinical settings. More than a dozen certified therapy dogs are part of Mayo Clinic’s Caring Canines program. They make regular visit to various hospital departments and even make special visits on request. For example, one dog and his trainer worked with a 5-year-old girl recovering from spinal surgery. The therapy dog helped her relearn how to walk, taking a step backward each time she took a step forward.

South Nassau Communities Hospital in Oceanside NY started an AAT Program about two years ago, which now features six dogs and their animal handlers. The AAT Volunteers will walk the floors, and visit patients in pediatrics, in pediatrics, oncology, behavioral health, and the transitional care unit—anywhere except the ICU and the CCU.

Anne Fernandez, Director, Volunteer Services South Nassau Communities Hospital explained that “the dogs are kept in pristine condition: exceptionally well-groomed and de-shedded. It’s a treat for patients to see the dogs. Being in a hospital can be scary and lonely. Some patients have pictures of their dogs on their windowsills, and having a visit with the pet handler and dog gives them the comfort of being at home. It’s a stress-relief for the patients.”

According to Fernandez, “Not only do our volunteers and their dogs cheer up patients in the units they visit–the therapy dogs are a big hit with the staff, too.” The dogs also help break the stress and tension of family members in the waiting room, and are a welcome diversion.

South Nassau Communities Hospital AAT Volunteer Jodi Ekberg, who shares her home with four Siberian Huskies, went through the AAT certification process with her dog, Frankie. Frankie was first certified as an American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen; and then received AAT training by a nonprofit, Love on a Leash.

Jodi, a cancer survivor, credits her dog with being an integral part of her healing process. “I truly believe that I am only here because of my dogs. I want them to do for others what the have done for me.”

Jodi (who works full-time) and Frankie serve as weekly Saturday visitors at South Nassau Communities Hospital, and will typically spend 3-4 hours visiting patients. As Jodi makes rounds with Frankie, “he brings a smile to the faces of everyone he meets.” Jodi describes how patients, even those who seem withdrawn, come to life when interacting with Frankie.

Pet Partners Canine Hospital
Pet Partners Canine Hospital Setting | “…it is refreshing to find that a person’s health may be improved prescribing contact with other living things. Members of the health and allied professions must continue to combine resources, work together in the spirit of cooperation, and never forget to ‘cure when possible but comfort always.’”

Military
Jim Hanophy is the CEO of Operation Kindness – the largest no-kill shelter in North Texas. Operation Kindness offers second chances of life to animals, to find a deeper purpose by assisting others through therapy. For example, the Pets for Vets program is dedicated to supporting veterans and providing a second chance for shelter dogs by rescuing, training and pairing them with veterans who could benefit from a companion animal. As the official Pets for Vets North Texas Chapter, Operation Kindness will train, socialize and match companion dogs with veterans in North Texas at no cost to the veteran.

VET with DOG
VET with DOG | Operation Kindness partners with Pets for Vets North Texas Chapter; Operation Kindness will train, socialize and match companion dogs with veterans in North Texas at no cost to the veteran.

“Many veterans returning home suffer with emotional and physical injuries that make the transition into civilian life difficult,” says Jim Hanophy, Operation Kindness CEO. “It is our goal to help ease this process by providing deserving veterans in North Texas with a companion animal. We believe trained companion animals will provide a source of friendship and comfort that many of our service men and women need.”

Here’s how it works: A professional trainer from Operation Kindness will meet with North Texas veterans to discuss what type of companion dog each wants. The trainer will identify one that’s appropriate for the veteran’s needs, lifestyle and personality. For example, if the veteran is less mobile, the trainer looks for dogs that require less physical exercise. The trainer then works with Operation Kindness and its network of rescue and shelter partners to thoroughly evaluate each dog’s temperament, breed, age, socialization skills and overall well being to find the right match for the veteran. Once a dog is selected, the trainer takes it home to socialize and train it before introducing the companion animal to the veteran.

Getting Involved
The best way to get involved in AAT is to join a group that can help evaluate your dog, provide some structure, and offer financial protection in the form of insurance. While a hospital, convalescent home, or other care facility is more likely to allow visits by organized groups than individuals, check with your local healthcare facility, since policies vary.

If you think that you, along with your animal companion, that could be perfect as an AAT pair, check out the registration and/or certification process. In general, Pet Partners recommends as a first step, it’s critical to determine your animal’s suitability. For dogs, obedience skills and a calm temperament are essentials. Your dog can’t bark at people, jump on them, or pull on the leash. Your dog must be relaxed when a stranger pets him and unfazed by noises and smells.
– Ask yourself: Am I willing to interact with people in need? Can I deal with people in discomfort?
– Also ask: Can I follow a facility’s rules? If you can answer yes to each question, you’re on your way.

Pet Partners Human-Canine
Pet Partners Human-Canine Volunteers | If you’re interested in evaluating your companion animal’s suitability in a hospital setting, Pet Partners recommends that obedience skills and a calm temperament are essentials for dogs.

Training. Some organizations train both dogs and owners; others train owners only. Look for an accredited organization with standards and procedures to protect you and your dog. This includes liability insurance, visit-length rules so your pet isn’t overworked, infection control, and regular health screenings for your pet.

Training length varies. Some organizers offer online courses that can be completed in a certain amount of hours; others require teams to train together for weeks. Registration should require in-person team testing.

Therapy animals: certified or registered? Different organizations offer different pathways. For instance, Pet Partners therapy animal teams are registered, not certified. Certification implies that Pet Partners has participated in the handler’s and the animal’s training. Whereas registration requires training and screening, Pet Partners does not certify that the team is trained to a certain level. Instead, the team is registered as having met minimum requirements.

Will you need volunteer insurance? Check with the facility where you and your animal companion will be volunteering, to ensure that you are covered by their insurance. For instance, when acting as a volunteer for Pet Partners within the scope of a volunteer’s duties as a Therapy Animal volunteer, you and your pet are insured by Pet Partners commercial general liability insurance. That means that if either member of a team causes a loss at a location where the team is visiting, and that loss results in a claim for which Pet Partners is liable, Pet Partners’ commercial general liability insurance will defend and pay expenses of the claim. Likewise, as a Pet Partners Therapy Animal Team, you will be covered on the Pet Partners insurance policy when you are doing volunteer work as a team. In cases where professionals are using animals in the context of their jobs, Pet Partners insurance does not provide coverage. It is important that you understand your coverage in case of an incident.

Costs. There are fees for the handler course, evaluation and registration and/or certification. Additionally you will need your vet to complete a health screening, which may have an associated charge. Typically, training and registration costs vary widely – costs can range from $100 – $300; to as high as $2,000. Once you’ve graduated, your training organization may help you find facilities to visit, but be prepared to do your own research and coordinate with staff for visitation. Finally, be prepared to commit to a schedule of regular visits.

Find training here: Pet Partners, Canine Link, Therapy Dogs Inc., Good Dog Foundation, and Therapy Dogs International


Filed Under: Dog Health, Guest Post

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