Compulsive Behavior in Dogs

A compulsive behavior in dogs can be a challenge to determine the exact root cause and then find the solution. You will first need to identify the repeat behaviors which occur during the waking hours of your dog. 

Did you know that there are specific breeds that have been known or will most likely develop compulsive behavior?  Yes, the Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers have excessive licking problems also known as lick dermatitis or lick granuloma.  The Bull Terriers have a tendency to spin round and round and the German Shepherds love to chase their tails continuously.

The most common cause for compulsive behavior in dogs is a stressful environment or from anxiety.  Here are a few contributing factors that can lead to compulsive behavior:

• Frequently tied up or confined in a small area.
• A long separation from a companion
• Continuous aggression from another dog
• Lack of socialization with other dogs or people
• A precious frightening experience
• Physical abuse or punishment

First you should rule out any underlying medical problems or other physical situations that might trigger the compulsive behavior and you should consult with your veterinarian to develop treatment plan. 

If you dog has received a clean bill of health from your veterinarian, your next challenge will be to identify the stressful situations and remove this from your dog's environment. 

The last and final challenge will be to distract your dog with positive reinforcement (rewarding your dog for good behavior) and in turn you will develop a stronger relationship with your dog.

You might want to try introducing your dog with a new squeaky toy, peanut butter in a Kong chew toy, or a rawhide bone to chew. 

You want your dog to be happy!

 

Boots & Barkley's 6 Count Dog Treat Recalled

The Boots & Barkley's 6 5 inch American Beef Bully sticks dog treats have been voluntarily recalled as of September 24, 2012 by the manufacturer Kasel Associated Industries for the possibility of salmonella contamination. 

This product was distributed to Target retail stores beginning April through September, 2012 with the bar code marked 6472563899189.  The following lots BESTBY20APR2014DEN, BESTBY01JUN2014DEN, BESTBY23JUNE2014DEN, and BESTBY23SEP201DEN.
 
This recall was prompted after the Colorado Agriculture Department detected the dangerous salmonella bacteria in the Boots and Barkley's 6 Count Dog Treats.

At this time, no illnesses have been reported in dogs or people.  The possible symptoms could be diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever or vomiting, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. 

All consumers are encouraged to return the Boots and Barkley's 6 count 5 inch American Beef Bully Sticks from the place of purchase for a full refund.  If you have any questions, you may contact Kasel Associated Industries by dialing 1-800-218-4417, Monday-Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm MDT.

This photo is courtesy of Examiner.com



 

Petco-Stainless Steel Bowl-Recall

If you purchased a stainless steel food dog from Petco between 5-31-12 through 6-20-12, SKU 1047493, "PETC-3 Deep Two Tone Notip" 9.25" round and 3.75 cup capacity

,  SKU 1386956 PETC-3.5C NO-TIP SS HAMMRD BWL, 9” diameter; 3.5 cup capacity

or SKU 1047477, PETC-7C TWO TONE NONTIP BOWL, 9” diameter; 7 cup capacity

You must immediately return this dog bowl, as it has been discovered it contains Cobalt-60 which is a radioactive material commonly used in an industrial gauging equipment.   

It was discovered during a routine Customs and Border Protection control check found a second container that was positive for the Cobalt-60.

Please share this important information with your family and friends.

Dangerous Foods for All Dogs

Every dog owner and lover should know the food not to feed your beloved companion!    If you have second thoughts on what to feed your dog, please review the most dangerous foods  not to feed your dog!

By having this knowledge before you feed your dog will definitely saves you the heart ache and worry if you dog should become sick from these dangerous foods!

A happy dog makes for a happy family!