Walking the Dog, It Can Be Exercise

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.

1. 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.
2.  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.
3. 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.
4. 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. 
5. 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. 
6. 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.

Blog Dog - Ketzel

Introducing Ketzel!

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! 

Fido Friendly Backyards

Having a dog can mean so much more than having a companion. They depend on their human caregivers to provide food, water, shelter and safety. Having a backyard area is one way to keep your canine friend happy. But, just like anything else you do for your pet, you must take safety precautions. Below is a list of things to consider when modifying your outdoor environment to be dog friendly.

• Plants. While some plants are beautiful and add variety to your garden, they can be toxic for your pet. Whether you're a do-it-yourself landscaper or you have hired help, take the time to read the list of poisonous plants before you add them to your yard.
• Fruits. Avocados are poisonous for dogs as well. Skipping out on homegrown guacamole could save your pet's life.
• Prickly Plants. Believe it or not, dogs are deterred by thorny or textured plants. Roses and lavender are beautiful and Fido is less likely to go exploring where they are planted.
• Fencing. Hopefully you never experience the feeling of your heart in your stomach that comes from realizing your pet has escaped the safe confines of your backyard. Choosing proper fencing material and height can drastically minimize the chances of your pet getting out. There are three types of fencing available; choose whichever suits your dog's breed and desire to tunnel out or jump over the fence.
• Structural Fencing
• Wired Electric Fencing



Maintaining Fencing Maintains Safety for Your Pet

• Wireless Electric Fencing
• Potty Patches. Like obedience training, teaching your dog to relieve itself in specific areas of the yard will help prevent the yellow burn marks that come from urine. 
• Pet Pathways. Continuous walking on the grass will also cause deterioration. Having pathways of concrete or smooth rock can prevent the extra wear-and-tear. Also consult a landscaper about the most hearty or durable grass type for your climate.
• Dog House. No canine friendly yard is complete without a dog house or shelter provided to give your pet a place to stay dry and out of the elements. While you should never leave your pet outdoors for lengthy durations, it's a nice to give them the option to relax in their own place. 
• Shade, shade and more shade. As the warmer weather is just around the corner, having shade to escape the direct sunlight is essential for your dog. They don't have sweat glands, and they can overheat from being left outside.
• Water feature. Your dog will obviously need to quench his thirst while exploring his yard. Having a fountain or other water feature adds beauty while remaining functional as well. It is important to keep the fountain clean of debris.
• Digging Deterrent. Using rock or elevated gardens will discourage your dog from digging and also add an element of nature that is pleasing to the eye.

There are many other fun ways to make your yard Fido Friendly.  BE creative, and always check with your veterinarian and landscaper before making any additions that could be harmful. It is possible to have a yard that is both beautiful and dog-safe.

Brushing Teeth- It's Not Just for People Anymore

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:

1. 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.
2. Anesthesia-Free Cleanings. Good for surface stains called "calculus" or "tartar." These types of cleanings do not clean under the gum line.
3. 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:

You can also help the dogs of GSROC while you help your own fur kids! Sign up now for the anesthesia-free dental clinic in March!  GSROC will receive a portion of each cleaning!

For those that have interest in the complete veterinary cleaning, please contact your vet for more information. 

Blog Dog - Ammo

Ammo

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.

It's Matchmaking Time!

February 2012 FEBRUARY IS THE MONTH FOR MATCHMAKING!  We all know that February is traditionally the month for letting those you love know how you feel about them.  That makes this the perfect month for us to show the beautiful dogs in our care how much they mean to us, and to remind them that true love will find them one day.  Thanks to the compassion and generosity of several incredible animal lovers, February is Matchmaking Month for German Shepherd Rescue of OC.  This means that every donation that we receive from February 1 through February 29 will be MATCHED dollar for dollar by wonderful individuals, up to a total of $8000 in matching funds!  WOW!  With your help, our dogs can earn $16K just in February alone!   No matter how large or small your donation, your gift will go twice as far when you donate in February, which in turn means that we can extend helping hands to even more dogs in need.  URGENT CARE IS NOT OUR ONLY EXPENSE   We have so many beautiful dogs depending on us, not only for their urgent medical needs, but for their day-to-day care as well.  Despite our best efforts, some of our residents have been with us longer because they just have not found their forever families (yet).  Take Sullivan and Cocoa, two senior sweethearts who are deeply bonded.  Sullivan, age 9, had been placed in a family six years ago, but his owner died and family members decided to return Sullivan to our rescue.  When we learned that a second dog in the family had also been orphaned, we couldn't bear the thought of taking Sullivan and leaving his best friend behind just because she was not a German Shepherd.  We welcomed precious Cocoa, age 11, into our rescue raft and never looked back.  Sullivan is very devoted to Cocoa and gets nervous when she is out of sight.  Cocoa is silly and flirtatious, and provides comfort for Sullivan.  These two love birds have been patiently waiting for a family that appreciates the special gifts that senior dogs bring.  While they are awaiting adoption, their monthly board and care costs exceed $500 each.  Your gift would go a long way to help us with this expense.   Another darling duo is Shadow and Brandy, two senior girls who lost their home due to foreclosure. Shadow, age 9, and Brandy, age 11, were much-loved dogs whose owners never thought they would find themselves homeless.  Shadow and Brandy are healthy senior dogs that still have plenty of love to give.  They are quiet and well-mannered and enjoy the company of other friendly dogs.  Shadow and Brandy are looking for a fresh start in a new family that will cherish them, but in the meantime, German Shepherd Rescue of OC is responsible for their day-to-day board and care costs.  Both girls require joint supplements to help them with arthritis aches and pains, but they still enjoy leisurely walks to sniff out the news of the neighborhood.  Would you please consider helping to offset their care costs? PLEASE HELP US HIT OUR GOAL THIS MONTH! By pledging your donation of any amount during February, you are actually helping twice as many dogs because your donation will be matched! We want to hit a target of $8000 to be matched, and we can do it with your help!  Please send your tax-deductible gift to help our orphans TODAY!  Our dogs are counting on us and we are counting on you!  Donations may be sent via Paypal or by Check to:  GSROC, 177F Riverside Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92663 Your donation is tax deductible by law. (EIN 20-3455479)   ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Click here to visit our beautiful dogs for adoption at www.gsroc.org  Help German Shepherd Rescue Dogs Find Love!      CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE LIST OF MORE WAYS TO HELP. UPCOMING EVENTS  2/18/2012 11:30AM to 3:30PM PETSMART Adoption Event 2237 Park Ave  (The District) Tustin, CA 92782       2/25/2012 8AM to 12:00PM UFC GYM Event 8920 Glendon Way Rosemead, CA 91770  3/3/2012 11:30AM to 3:30PM CENTINELA Adoption Event  BIG BAKE SALE    2320 Harbor Blvd    Costa Mesa, CA 92886  3/10/2012 11:30AM to 3:30PM PETSMART Adoption Event  2237 Park Ave (The District)  Tustin, CA 92782   3/17/2012 11:30AM to 3:30PM PETSMART Adoption Event  BIG BAKE SALE    23602 El Toro Road    Lake Forest, CA 92630   3/18/2012 4:30PM to 7:00PM Wines, Woofs & Wishes Annual Fundraiser  L'Opera Ristorante     101 Pine Ave      Long Beach, CA 90802   3/24/2012 11:30AM to 3:30PM PETSMART Adoption Event    25521 Mirage Street   Yorba Linda, CA 92886   3/25/2012 10:00AM to 3:00PM Anesthesia-Free Pet Dental Cleaning Clinic Tustana Animal Hospital    1142 El Camino Real    Tustin, CA 92780        JOIN RALPHS REWARDS CLUB AND CHOOSE GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE OF OC TOEARN DIVIDENDS FOR OUR ORPHANS.    Click here for details: RALPHS CLUB  Tax deductible donations Please help us to save more dogs by making a tax deductible donation today. We have several ways for you to help, and ALL donations are very much appreciated. No donation is too small. Any size donation is appreciated and will allow us to help the dogs. Your support really makes a difference. (EIN # 20-3455479) - If the Donate link does not work for you, please click here to DONATE.

Beware! Poisonous Dog Treats Are Out There Now!

Do you remember the great pet food recall of 2007? It happened after hundreds of pets died because the food they were eating was not safe.  Now, in 2012, it's not the food, this time its the treats. Back in November of last year, the FDA issued a warning about chicken jerky treats imported from China.

So far, the investigations that the FDA have done, have not yielded any results as to what the cause of the illness is within the treats. This means that the FDA cannot issue a recall. Meanwhile, pets are continuing to get sick. 

The list of brands that have been reported so far are:

• Waggin Train
• Canyon Creek Ranch
• Dogswell
• Booda Bones - Aspen Pet
• Milo's Kitchen
• American Kennel Club
• Hartz
• Dingos
• Beefeaters
• Cadet
• Sergeant's
• Ever Pet
• Home Pet 360
• Walgreen's "Simple" (New Brand)
• The Kingdom Pets

What to Do as a Pet Owner:

First, if your pet becomes ill and you have been feeding any of the treats listed above (or another brand imported from China), call your veterinarian and/or emergency after hours clinic.  Second, file a report with the FDA.

Symptoms of Illness May Include, But Not Be Limited to:

• Decreased appetite
• Decreased activity
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased water consumption
• Increased urination

What to Do as a Pet Food Supplier:

Remove the products from your shelves. 

What to Do as a Concerned Pet Lover:

Print copies of the FDA warning and show them to pet store managers if you find the products on their shelves and urge them to remove them. 

Hopefully, the FDA will make some headway with their investigation. In the meantime,  two Senators have called for the FDA to not allow the treats to remain on shelves. 

Thank you to Pet Pardons News for the information.