German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County (GSROC) is a non-profit 501c(3) charity organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing purebred German Shepherd Dogs. We are funded entirely by private donations.
She is our blog dog of the week! This little girl is sweet, smart and full of energy. Who knows why someone would ever want to let this furry angel go, but it's alright, she's forgotten the past and is ready to embark on a new journey into your heart! Please visit the GSROC website to find out more details about Miss Zoey and to find out how to meet her.
Although the New Year's Resolutions have probably gone by the wayside, the warmer weather and approaching bathing suit season have many folks renewing their efforts to get fit. Working out with your dog is an excellent way to kill two birds with one stone. It's good for both of you to get out there and get moving. Dr. Marty Becker has some tips for busting a move with your canine friend.
Medical Health: Both you and your pet should get a health check up before starting any workout program. Discuss things like what your goals are for weight loss or maintenance and what you can improve in both your diets as well. Don't forget to weigh in so you know your starting point.
Plans, maps and routes: Keep track of your progress. You can make it simple like marking an "X" on the calendar days when you walk along with the distance, or you can get more specific with a software or web based tracker. For those that have smartphones, check out the Map My Dog Walk app.
Get in Gear: Make sure you have the appropriate clothing and shoes for yourself. Feet need good support. For your pet, get a good 6 foot leash and collar or whatever your trainer has recommended you use. You may need a sweater or paw boots if you live in inclement weather.
Mind Your Manners: First, always carry extra poo-baggies. No one appreciates stepping in a mess on their walk, so think of others and pick up whatever your pet puts down. Second, if your dog pulls on the leash or is aggressive toward other dogs, this will not bode well for your fitness routine. You owe it to yourself and your pet to seek out proper training.
Safety First: It doesn't hurt to throw a small first aid kit in your belt pack with the poo baggies. There are all sorts of hazards out there; even in suburban neighborhoods. Check out how to make a pet first aid kit to get some ideas of what to include. Also wear reflective gear so cars can see you. Don't forget to update your contact information on your dog's tags, licenses and microchip. In the event you get separated from your pet, you'll be glad you did. Carry your cell phone as well and have the number to your doctor and your pet's veterinarian saved to your contacts.
Pace Yourself: If you haven't been hitting the trails (or sidewalks) in a while, don't expect to pull a marathon on your first time out. Start slow and build up so both you and your dog survive each workout.
Most of all, have fun. You and your dog will both benefit from getting out and about. Follow the steps above and you're sure to have a safe and good time. For additional tips, read more here.
This lovely girl is 2 years old and she likes cats. She is sweet, and loving and looking for someone with the same qualities to love her back. She has a beautiful coat and a doggie smile. Even more exciting is that she already knows some basic commands like "sit" and is excelling in her training. If you're interested in meeting Ketzel, please visit our website and fill out and application, or come to an adoption event this weekend!
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. With all of the products and services like clothing and day spas that are humanizing pets, there is one thing that people do for themselves that they should also do for their dogs: take care of their teeth.
There are three ways to clean dogs teeth:
At home with brush and paste made for pets. This is good for maintenance but does not substitute for a thorough cleaning by a licensed professional.
Anesthesia-Free Cleanings. Good for surface stains called "calculus" or "tartar." These types of cleanings do not clean under the gum line.
Veterinary Cleanings Under Anesthesia. The most comprehensive of the bunch. Designed to get the tartar that you can see on the tooth as well as the tartar under the gums which is the key to preventing periodontal issues.
To help you begin your journey into pet dental health, here's a video on how to brush dogs teeth:
Meet Ammo! He's 18 months old and looking for a new place to call home. His photos don't do him justice! He's a gorgeous guy that would love to be your running buddy. For more information on Ammo, and the many wonderful dogs in need of fur-ever homes, please visit the GSROC website.
This week's blog dog is none other than Elvis. This senior king will capture your heart. He gets along well with children and other dogs, but prefers not to have any felines sharing his new home. He also appreciates a fun ride in the car as well as a game of fetch or chase the squirrel. Senior dogs make wonderful companions and can bring a lot of love into your home. Please consider Elvis, our senior sweetheart and blog dog of the week!
This sweet & petite little girl is only 5 months old with a really pretty silver toned coat. She jumped into the GSROC lifeboat and is looking for an energetic and active person to give her a fur-ever home! Are you that person? Check out her web page for more information.
