Wordless Woof Wednesday

PUPPY CUTENESS!!!

Some of you may have heard me talk about a good friend and client who has been waiting on a Newfie puppy for quite some time and how excited I am for her! The puppies have finally arrived, and she shared some pics with me...they were to cute not to share with you! 

Adopt a Less Adoptable Week

There have been many posts this week about why you should adopt the "less-adoptable dogs" and even some posts on specific dogs looking for homes. What I want to share with you is a happy ending. 


Meet Numan G. Foreman III, but you can call him Numan...the less-adoptable. A big boy who was scheduled to be PTS because he had some serious phobias, and oh yeah, the resource guarding. Who would adopt a dog like that? 


While Numan isn't perfect, the Pagel's weren't looking for perfect. They were looking for goofy, lovable and loyal. Numan was happy to provide that and much more for his new family. And with some guidance and a good measure of positive-reinforcement training, they were able to work through the other issues. You know, the ones that Numan would have died for...


The Pagel's simply can't imagine their life without Numan, and Numan can't imagine life without his non-furry family! He snuggles on the couch to watch movies, opens the back door as he pleases to come & go out of the yard and even goes on outings to Home Depot to lend a helping paw. 


The point of the story is this: Every dog has something to offer. When picking a companion, focus on the traits that really matter to you.. you never know, that dog who doesn't look quite right, or has some quirky traits might just be your missing puzzle piece! 

Numan's favorite non-furries

Numan Helping Out

Numan's Happy Ending

Wordless Woof Wednesday

Saw this on a calendar.. yes I'm biased because he's wrinkly.. but he's got a good point.

Fun Answer Friday: How should I feed my athlete?

Rebecca asks: My dog and I are competing in agility trials almost every weekend. Is there anything I can add to his diet to ensure he is getting the nutrients he needs as a competing athlete?

Dogs are dogs..whether they are lounging on the couch, chasing squirrels or competing in a sport, right? The canine athlete is a special breed, competing professionally requires physical stamina as well as mental acuteness. And, there are steps we can take to ensure they are performing as well as possible!

Tips for feeding the canine athlete:
~ Make sure you are feeding a nutrient dense, highly-digestible diet. I recommend a protein content of 32%  plus. As your athlete ages, make sure to add digestive enzymes as nutrient absorption is an essential foundation.
~ Supplement with a high-grade fish oil supplement. This should be a cold-pressed oil that has an EPA:DHA ratio of 180:120. 2000mg per 20lbs during competition season. Half that during the 'off season'.
~ Fresh, filtered water is essential. There are plenty of water bottle options now that filter water, so there's no reason you can't provide this on the road or at competition.
~ On competition days, feed one small, light meal approximately two hours before an event, and feed the second larger meal in the evening after all events are done for the day.
~ The last supplement that is important for your athlete is a carbohydrate containing supplement for right after a performance. Although protein is often the focus of supplementation for athletes, glucose repletion is essential for muscle repair and necessary to reduce fatigue and maintain mental stability. (We really like Glyco-gen Energy Bones).

While there are many supplements out there for working dogs, these are the essential needs that we like to see addressed for every working dog. Competing with a canine athlete is a rewarding experience that allows you to bond with your companion on a whole new level. Pay them back by ensuring they are getting what they need!


www.HappyHealthyPup.com