It is important your dog feels comfortable and safe for necessary car journeys of any length. This is a list of car accessories for dogs

Dog Safety

Dog car crates or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Think how frightened your dog might be looking through the window of a moving car with everything whizzing past!

It could be there isn’t room for a travel cage or maybe your dog is taken out in more than one car in which case a dog harness with seat belt adaptor is a good alternative. This is a great multi purpose travel accessory for your dog!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. Your frightened dog if unsecured will instinctively want to get out of the car and possibly run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

A car boot isn’t designed to be comfortable so if your dog has to travel in the car a dog bed is much nicer to lie down on.

If you are planning a long journey in the colder months a dog blanket would be a good idea too. (remember to also keep a blanket for yourself in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. Keeping water and a bowl is a must but instead of the bulky hard bowls consider investing in those special dog travel bowls made of material that fold up when not in use, you can also get disposable travel bowls.

Handy hint: The car engine might need water too! Re-use any empty plastic milk or juice bottles and keep a supply of water in your boot for your dog and car engine. Especially vital during the hot months. If you are out in the country you can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don’t forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Top Tip: The car window shades you use for babies and children are ideal for pets too!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! Smaller dogs can easily be lifted into bigger cars but what if you have an older heavier dog that can’t jump up or have been on a particularly muddy trip out? There are several dog ramps that you can buy which fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. The first aid you apply to your dog if it gets a nasty cut will be vital in its recovery and if you are out in the middle of nowhere it could be a while before you can get your dog to a vet. Dog first aid kits often come complete with gauzes, wipes and bandages and fit in most glove compartments.

Swellpets.co.uk has many more great products for dogs. Give it a whirl.co.uk

Smooth-Coat

A Smooth-Coat Dachshund is the classic, short-haired type you have seen in a hundred films and ads. Requiring little more than a regular bathing and brushing, their coats are easy to care for. “Regular” varies with the dog’s environment and age.

Grooming Supplies for dogs can be found at LuvUrDog.com

Younger dogs may need baths as often as once per week, though once a month is fine when they stay out of dirt and bushes. If they live in rougher circumstances, be sure to keep their coats clean and brushed regurlarly. “Regularly” means a minimum of twice per week, and as necessary. Remove any plant material as soon as they are done playing.

A wire slicker is fine for grooming, but be careful. All dogs are durable, but it is important not to scrape the skin. That can lead to hot spots that the dog will make worse by chewing and licking. Since Doxies are a high-energy, assertive breed, extra caution is needed.

Wire-Hair

The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It also gives them a need for extra grooming care.More frequent baths and more regular brushing will be called for in their case.Brushing will take longer as well.

Like the terriers they resemble, the stiff coat is actually in two layers.Get the undercoat with a slicker and use a regular brush for the top layer. Remember, too, that they will shed more.A shampoo to help control shedding may be necessary in some cases. In most cases, be prepared for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.

Cut any excess hair off the muzzle to avoid it dragging on the ground. Cutting behind the rear legs will also be necessary once it reaches a length that leads to mats.Regular brushing up to twice a week is good enough.

Long-Hair

As the name suggests, this type has long, wavy hair. Since Doxies are low to the ground, more regular trimming will be needed, along with more frequent bathing. Matting is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, especially behind the ears.When mats form, trim them gradually until you have removed enought to work out the mat with a brush and fingers.

A shampoo that contains conditioner works well with this type.Be sure not to over-bathe them, though, which can lead to scaly, dried skin. Regular, gentle brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils over the skin and under the coat.

Nail Trimming

All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The normal technique is okay. Get a good pair of guillotine scissors and hold each foot firmly, looking for the quick. Cut away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Doxie’s case because of their feisty nature.

Only-Dachshunds has gifts and more for the Doxie Lover

Each dog will deviate in degree, of course.There are submissive ones though fewer than other breeds, on average.  Some will try to insist on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can adjust their behavior, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward a family member, you, or strange people and animals.Gnawing the leash during training is one mild manifestation.

Discourage it by stepping on the leash close to the dog’s head.  Then with the other foot, slowly pull the leash down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as Doxies are inclined to spinal problems.When they have released the lead, praise them lavishly.

To discourage excess barking or biting or snapping a squirt bottle comes in handy.Give your dog a little squirt against the muzzle when he shows this behavior.  Avoid the eyes.That startles your dog and it is unpleasing besides.  Repeat, if necessary, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a competitor.  Firm consistency is preferred to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie continues, isolate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will sometimes try to whine or bark its way out of punishment.Offer your dog rugged chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the “time out” box.

Follow this negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for illustrations of good behavior and praise it profusely.Use a modest number of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different end result of its own conduct in terms of your response.Dachshunds are smart.With persistence, they will learn.

For instance, one may become assertive during fetch by refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between genuine willfulness and a simple desire to play a different game, tug.  Make the difference clear by using a rope for tug, which they love.

It is necessary to tread a fine line, though, because tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or tranquil dog will help.Aggression is partly caused by the frustration of repressed energy with no positive outlet.

A friend can be a big help here.Heave the ball to a partner several feet away, along the ground.When the Doxie gives chase, make sure the partner is the first to get the ball.Repeat the exercise a few times, then allow your Dachshund to win.

With patience and a little creativity, you can direct your Dachshund’s aggression into more positive directions.

LuvUrDog.com

How can this be true of one breed of dog? Well, it is. Doxies are among the most interesting and complex breeds precisely because they encompass all these attributes and many more besides.

Bred in Germany to chase vermin in the 1600s, bold and fearless characteristics were selected first and foremost. At the same time, they had to be strong-willed, persistent and resourceful. It does little good to have legs and feet that are excellent for digging if the dog does not have the spirit of pursuit.

Those attributes have been handed down through the centuries. Most Dachshunds today are pets, not hunters, once attributes are bred in their nature does not change much. What can be considered aggression in one circumstance can be simple courage in another. What can be considered valuable persistence in one situation can be seen as willfulness in another.

Above all, Doxies are intelligent dogs. Doxies individualist character makes them more difficult to take an interest in training. If handled correctly, their smarts allow them to excel in whatever they do.

Keeping in mind that independence does not necessarily mean they are uninterested in others. Dachshunds are filled with curiosity and want to take part in any adventure going on around them. Some breeds are happy to sit by quietly and observe. A Dachshund wants to be participating along with everyone else and in the middle of things.

There are variations within these broad outlines.

The Smooth-Coat Dachshund exhibits all the classic behaviors – barking at the least invasion to its territory, leading the pack whenever possible and more. They will struggle during nail clipping time and be reluctant more often to take a bath.

The Wire-Hair type looks and acts like a combination of Doxie and terrier. Terriers are high strung also. But they love to play and their behavior is not aggressive so much as just forthright.

The Long-Hair Doxie is more like a miniature Irish Setter, though not to that extreme. They are a little more inclined to watch and wait their turn, but do enjoy a good romp. Though they take a bit more grooming care, they are among the easier varieties to train.

All Dachshund variations are natural diggers. Bred to chase small game, such as badgers, into a den, they like getting into things. Their powerful front legs and muscular chest make it pretty easy for them to do just that. Thanks to the streamlined body and smooth, narrow head, getting out isn’t too much more difficult. As a result, if you want to keep the garden or lawn intact, don’t allow the dog to roam freely without supervision.

Having natural energy, Dachshunds do need at least moderate exercise in activities. A good idea for these “gophers” is an obstacle course with tunnels.

Doxies are also loving and loyal. The bond between a Dachshund and the person or family it adopts is unusually strong. Doxies want to be near people and enjoy interaction. As any Doxie owner will be happy to tell you……..

Visit LuvUrDog.com for Tips, Supplies and more, Just for Dog Lover’s

There has to be a better alternative. Pets are family after all, and it hardly seems fair that they should be left behind while everyone else is off having fun on holiday. Luckily, more and more holiday companies are realising this is an issue and are offering pet friendly accommodation at only a small extra cost. OK, so you can’t take them on a plane to the other side of the world, but if you’re planning your holiday a bit closer to home it’s worth considering taking them with you – you wouldn’t have to worry about them being left behind and it’s normally cheaper than paying a pet-sitter or kennel to care for them.

Wales is a great place to choose for a family holiday with a dog. Not only is there a huge range of different types of self catering accommodation, from flats and houses in the town to rural holiday cottages, Wales also boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. And honestly, what dog wouldn’t love the opportunity to run around in the famous Welsh hills and valleys, or along one of the beautiful coastlines with their long sandy beaches and striking cliff faces.

It’s not just your dog who will love Wales, there is wealth of attractions and activity holidays for the rest of the family, not to mention the chance to explore a country that is not only beautiful but rich in history, culture and entertainment. So if you’re looking for the perfect destination to take the whole family – including the dog – for a short break, Wales could be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Vaccines are an essential tool in keeping your Doxie healthy, but a few do carry some risk of allergic reaction.  Knowing which are vital and which are optional can help improve your odds of doing good without doing harm.

- Rabies

Rabies vaccine is among the most important for your Dachshund, as it is for any dog.Even though the disease is much less common today, the consequences of getting it are still so drastic – often fatal – that most vets still recommend it.

Rabies vaccinations are usually given every year to puppies and every two to three years subsequently.The majority of the states require the vaccine and determine a specific schedule.That is being re-examined as research now reveals that immunization lasts three years or more.See your veterinarian for specific guidelines, but also seek a second or even third opinion and decide accordingly.

Serious side effects from the vaccination are rare, but may include swelling, hives, fever, or lethargy, along with decreased appetite.

- Canine Distemper

Distemper shots used to be routine.Although schedules have lengthened, they are still common today.Contemporary research shows that puppies given a sequence of shots will develop antibodies that last several years.First vaccinations should be given at approximately eight weeks.As with any vaccination, the schedule can vary from one part of the country to another, since prevalence and the associated risks of the disease vary geographically.  See your vet.

- Parvo

A vaccine to protect against the parvovirus is often combined with that for distemper, though it can be given separately.Bear in mind that “combo” shots represent a slightly greater risk of allergic reaction.Combinations also make determining the root of any problem more difficult.

In some dogs, the immune systems goes into “hyperdrive” and produces redness of the gums, swelling of the face and other symptoms.If a problem occurs, it commonly happens within an hour or less, so stay near your vet’s office after any vaccination.Observe your Dachshund attentively.Have Benadryl nearby and call your vet at the first sign of a reaction.

- Hepatitis

This shot helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis.Here again, the disease is not common and the vaccine carries a small chance of allergic reaction.Nevertheless, the disease is serious enough that owners will want to discuss the subject carefully with their veterinarian and seek a second opinion before deciding.Kidney infections are possible following the vaccination because modified live virus is used.

- Lepto

Shots to immunized against the leptospira bacteria used to be routine, and in many areas still are.This is another vaccine that may cause a reaction and offers only short-lived protection against the disease.Since the disease itself is uncommon, this vaccination is considered “non-core” by many vets today.

- Bordatella

The Bordatella organism causes a fairly common condition popurlarly known as “kennel cough”.  The name comes from the fact that the organism can be airborne and can spread when dogs are housed close together.It is not a serious ailment, but does necessitate treatment when it arises.

If your Dachshund does not come into contact with strange dogs this vaccine is probably not necessary.Exceptions are in areas where the disease has gone unchecked, or when you intend to go on vacation and board your Dachshund.

Summary

Vaccines are a low-risk, outstanding way to protect your Dachshund against a wide array of diseases.But “low-risk” doesn’t mean “no risk” and what was once a customary habit has become a more thoughtful exercise, thanks to improved research.

Apprehension about vaccines is erroneous.However, the risk of disease is not zero, either.Nevertheless, careful consideration of the benefits and risks will help maximize your dog’s health.

Just for Dog Lover’s

If you love traveling with your pet, then you need to know how to find pet friendly lodging. Many tourists who wish to bring their pets along for a long holiday may have dilemma in terms of which hotel or vacation rental offers pet-friendly services. Pet friendly hotels do exist. In fact, they are not as hard to find as you may think. Even some of the well-known hotel chains allow guests to bring their pets.

In order to find out whether the hotel you are considering allows dogs, cats or other pets, the simplest thing to do is call and ask. If you travel often, having a list of some of your favorites that you have personally visited will help you plan your travel in the future. As you stay at various hotels with your dog, take note of whether or not you would like to stay there again. Pretty soon, you will know just where to go when you are on the road with your pet.

In many big cities, there are lots of pet-friendly hotels available which offer full services for their guests to make their vacations more pleasurable. Obviously not everyone likes dogs and if the owner of a hotel you book is one of these people then you’re going to be extremely disappointed if they turn you away because they don’t allow pets. All is not lost though as there is a niche hotel market for pet-friendly Bed and Breakfasts. These hotels accommodate pets either in the guest’s rooms or have specific areas for your pet to stay at. Furthermore, there are some holiday rental cottages that will accommodate your pets with the added bonus of having your own living space for your pet to enjoy.

There are some hotels which allow guests with pets under their special terms and conditions. They have a tendency to tack on additional charges to compensate them for daily maintenance and other pet insurance related problems like treatment against fleas, possible destruction, and losses incurred by pets. Loews Hotel limits the number of allowed pets to two per room to guarantee the comfort of all their guests. Loews Hotel is an extremely pet-friendly hotel and has a well- trained staff in terms of pet care. If you find a hotel which will allow pets in your room, you will likely be asked to sign a pet policy. This will tell you exactly what the rules are for keeping your pet at the hotel. Hotels generally require pets to remain attended in the room unless being taken outside on a leash for a walk. Hotels may amend their pet policies at any time, so always call the hotel to make sure they know you will be bringing your pet.

I always make it a point to think of the comfort of my dog wherever we go, bringing things such as organic dog treats. It’s like children – if they are not comfortable they will not be happy; and neither will you. Take a minute the next time you’re watching Entertainment Tonight or Hollywood extra and notice how they treat their pets. It’s almost as if they are little children needing their parents to go with them everywhere.

Preparing your pet for a safe airplane journey does require some advance preparation that can help minimize the stress that your pet experiences. The following strategies can work with either dogs or cats, plus they also work with other species of pets. Prior to the trip, a trip to the dog groomers is a nice way to begin

Food and Exercise

It is important to restrict both food and water for approximately 12 hours before a flight. This means that the pet should be fed normally and on schedule and then kept from food or water for approximately half a day. If you only feed once a day in the morning and if you are not flying out until the next afternoon you may wish to adjust the feeding schedule to the evening at least a week before the flight to avoid the pet going for over 24 hours without food or water. Withholding food and water for 12 hours will prevent messes in the carrier and will also prevent vomiting and possible choking concerns while the pet is in the air.

Exercise the pet really well before they are put in the crate or carrier to get on the flight. For most pets being confined for a long period of time can be tough. They’re used to being able to move around and play. Cats can be enticed to chase a piece of string or play with a favorite toy before going in the crate and dogs can always go for a long walk, jog or play time before travel.

Make the crate positive

For a person, a crate or carrier seems confining and restrictive, but for a dog, cat or other pet it can be a safe, relaxing and comfortable place. If the pet already sleeps in the crate or carrier at home or when staying at a dog boarding facility, your work is done as the pet sees this as his or her den. If the crate or carrier is new, start encouraging the pet to spend time in there by placing some tasty treats, toys and comfortable bedding in the crate and praising the pet for spending time in the crate.

Use puppy pads in the crate

Placing highly absorbent puppy pads, on the bottom of the crate will help keep any accidents away from the pet. Covering the puppy pads with a thick towel or blanket will help as well. If you are traveling with a cat, invest in one of the small, travel sized litter boxes that can be attached to the side of the crate that will provide a bathroom area as well as a dry, clean place to sleep.

Finally, try to stay as calm as possible yourself. Your pets are very attune to your emotional state and if you are nervous they are much more likely to pick up on your emotional state.

Nevertheless, some conditions do occur more often in Dachshund than in other breeds.

Diseases of the Adrenal Gland

One common disease of the adrenal gland is hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing’s Disease. In Cushing’s Disease, too much of the cortisol hormone is produced, either by the adrenal gland or a primary tumor, or a malfunction of the pituitary gland, which is the master gland that tells the adrenal gland how much cortisol to produce. The elevated cortisol level results in hair loss, excessive drinking and urination, a pot-bellied appearance, skin conditions and sometimes diabetes. Lab tests are performed to measure the cortisol levels and the ability of the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. There are several different drugs that can be used to decrease the level of cortisol. On occasion, surgical removal of the adrenal gland may be needed. Cushing’s disease can occur in all breeds of dogs, also.

The opposite condition is called hypoadrenocorticism (low cortisol) or Addison’s disease. Whereas, Cushing’s takes some time to present itself, Addison’s disease is a sudden episode of collapse due to to low of glucose (blood sugar) and an imbalance of the electrolytes. The sudden illness results in an emergency visit to the veterinarian to correct the imbalances with cortisone injections and fluid therapy. Addison’s disease is the most difficult to diagnose because the sudden collapse resembles many disorders. Specialized blood tests are necessary to identify both Cushing’s and Addison’s Disease. Life long treatment with prednisone and electrolyte supplements will be needed to treat Addison’s disease.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Several eye diseases can affect Dachshunds, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. PRA is a gradual deterioration of the retina, the back wall of the eye. The deterioration leads to gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Because of the slow onset of the disease, it may not be diagnosed until the dog has already been bred, thus passing the condition to their offspring. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure or treatment for PRA. Other eye diseases that can affect Doxies are cataracts, glaucoma, optic nerve hypoplasia, abnormal eyelashes (distichiasis) as well as other conditions. Regular eye exams can help early detection of these eye-disorders.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

By far the most common disease of Dachshunds is related to the discs between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine). The disc is normally gelatinous and provides a cushion between the bones of the back (spine). In Dachshunds, this material sometimes ruptures and sometimes calcifies, or hardens. The disc protrusion causes pain and swelling around the nerves coming out of the spinal cord and sometimes compresses the cord itself. A herniated disc starts with back pain or a reluctance to jump, and can progress to partial or even total paralysis of the back legs. The majority of Doxies with disc disease can be managed medically with pain medication and anti-inflammatory medications. Acupuncture and Chiropractic manipulation is sometimes used to help relieve the pain with varying success. When total paralysis is caused from a complete rupture, immediate surgery to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord may help restor full function in the legs. The faster the surgery is performed, the greater the chances of full recovery.

Researchers are using lasers to fuse or burn the discs in order to prevent future herniation. Because this is such a common problem in this breed, I do recommend purchasing health insurance for your pet. Unfortunately, some owners cannot afford the surgery and pets suffering with total paralysis or extreme pain are euthanized. A few of my patients that were partially paralyzed did recover some function of their legs over time. Some dogs may recover without surgery, but it is impossible to predict.

Vaccination Reactions

Allergic reactions to vaccinations does seem to occur in the Dachshund more often than any other breed. Usually, the reaction is minor, resulting in swelling of the face and muzzle and sometimes hives. Vaccine reactions do occur with any dog, so it is wise to observe your pet for a few hours after receiving. Vaccines have improved over the past few years so reactions are fewer and the benefits of protecting your pet against the diseases outweighs the risks.

With good health care, Dachshunds can lead a long and healthy life. Preventive health checks, proper diets, vaccinations, heartworm and parasite prevention, and good dental care can help your Dachshund live longer.  You can find more information concerning your dogs health at LuvUrDog.com as well Dachshund breed gifts.

 

These figures do not include those in small, local and home-based shelters.  There are also animal rescue organizations that take abused and abandoned animals.  There are also hundred of animals left to stray in the streets.

Due to various reasons pets end up at a shelter.  There are pets that are abused and hurt by their owners thinking that this is another form of training and discipline among their pets.  Animals victims of these extreme cased can be rescued and if the animals are not showing any behavioural problems, may be put up for adoption. 

Another reason why there are so many animals in shelters is because there are more and more animals straying or roaming around.  There are guardians who let their pets roam outside their premises and never bother to look for them once they are gone.  Also these animals do not have any identification tags. Because of this it is hard to give them back to its owners. 

The most common reason that an animal shelter can hear from pet parents surrendering their pets is that they are moving.  There are guardians who do not want to pay to transport their pets, guardians moving to apartments not allowing pets inside, guardians who do not want to pay a pet deposit, and many more.  It is important to remember that pets are not old pieces of furniture that can be left behind just because you can buy another one.  Pets are living things that have repaid us with loyalty and devotion. 

Having a baby is another reason why pet parent give up their pets for adoption.  SPOT  (Stopping Pet Overpopulation Society, Inc), an alliance of animal lovers, dog/cats rescuers and veterinarians in Atlanta,  recommends that people have their family first then adopt a pet.  If it is not possible, then it is best to pick a breed or mixed bred that is known to be good with children. 

It is important to remember before getting a pet that they require attention, time and money.  There are pet parents surrendering their pets because they can no longer provide time to take care of them.  Also others may find it too expensive to raise and take care a pet.  It is important to think that taking care of pets is a commitment that you are ready to take and be responsible for the next 10 to 15 years.

Behavioural problems is also another reason for giving up a pet. Too much barking, chewing everything, too hyper or aggressiveness of the pets are the common cited behavioural problems cited.  Of course, dogs who did not undergo obedience training will be rambunctious and wild.Dogs who are not too social will be aggressive in behaviour against human beings or other animals. 

It is important for a parent to get a pet, only if, the parent wants it as much as the children want the animal.  Because if the children immediately lose interest on the pet, it is more likely that the unfortunate animal will be given up for adoption.  It is important to always ask yourself, a parent , before getting a pet the real reason for getting one.

There are also incidents that elderly guardians could no longer take care of their pets because of death or they would have to go to a nursing facility.  If the pet parent is already a senior citizen it is important to take into consideration the age of the pet and who will take care of it when the situation turn into worse.  If it is uncertain who will take care of the pet, it is best to adopt a pet that is already and wonderfully housebroken older dog. 

There are many reasons why pets are put up for adoption everyday.  It might be unfortunate events that happened to the pet parent or just avoidance of responsibility.It is essential to consider that whenever we are thinking of buying a pet, we are really ready for it and committed in caring of it.