When a dog reaches the age of 12 and older, many things change in terms of their physical and mental status. Senior dogs who were once loving, playful and docile animals may begin to display agressive behaviors. A senior dog who’s hearing or vision is failing may exhibit growling or snapping behaviors as they do not hear or see when people approach them and are startled. As a dog ages, there are many mental and physical changes that affect its stress level. Arthritic joints and restricted movement do not allow your pet to move as easily, causing him to feel trapped in an annoying situation. A well-intended affectionate rub may be causing your canine friend irritation to sore joints without you knowing it. He may snap at you when you try to pick him up for the same reason. Changes in routines, new family members, moving, loud noises, or the fast movement of children can startle the dog into an aggressive action.
It is important to have your pet checked by a veterinarian. If biting is a reaction to pain, this can possible be alleviated by medication, acupuncture or other holistic therapies. Brain tumors are another possibility that can cause behavioral changes. The vet would do a CT scan or MRI to determine the type of tumor and prognosis for treatment.
In the long run, the toughest decision we all must make with our senior pets is when is it time to let go? We love them as a member of our family and do not want the burden of making that decision. But it is part of the responsibility we take on when we decide to bring a pet into our lives. We wish they could talk and tell us it is okay. ‘I’m uncomfortable, my body is tired and sore and I don’t like snapping at the people I love!’ It requires soul-searching, sacrifice and courage. Don’t let others judge you. Move ahead with resolve and know it is right for you, your family and your beloved pet.
A lovely note from Cheryl after she read our Tails Untold Personalized Pet Book FB page. “I just have to get some rolled out and try this recipe. By the way, my sister read her book from Tails Untold that was personally created for KONA…. would you believe that KONA wags his tail when she reads it out loud? The dog knows it’s about him! And for all you pet lovin’ foks – go to Tails Untold and look what you can have created for your pet – dog or cat. It is something that you will have forever and it’s personalized just for your pet. We’ve had several created for our pets already.”
To like our Facebook Page please copy this address into your browser. http://on.fb.me/YkwqAG or visit our website www.tailsuntold.com and you can link directly to our Facebook page there.
“Yes!!! Our Bosco Book arrived on Saturday so I was able to wrap and give it over the weekend. It’s amazing and was received with much happiness! Thank you so much for all your inquiries to ensure the storybook turned out so well! It met and exceeded all my expectations!”Courtnie
What we used to call a “mixed breed” has now become known as a “designer dog”, a much more “haute couture” name than “mutt”. Actually they are a cross between two purebred dogs. New breeds have sprung up since the late 1980’s at a fast and furious pace, the earliest cross having been between a Labrador and a poodle, the Labradoodle. The following is a list of just some of the breeds that have been created by breeders of designer dogs;
– Golden Retriever + Standard Poodle = Goldendoodle
-Schnauzer + Yorkshire Terrier = Snorkie
– Pug + Beagle = Puggle
-Maltese + Pomeranian = Maltipom
-Boston Terrier + Pug = Bug
-Pomeranian + Toy Poodle = Pomapoo
-Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle = Yorkipoo
-Jack Russell Terrier + Poodle = Jack-a-Poo/Jack-a-Doodle
-Yorkshire Terrier + Shih Tzu = Shorkie
When deciding on a designer dog, it is important to read up on the characteristics of each breed. Know their temperament and the kind of care they need. If you dislike shedding, mixing a poodle or other non-shedding dog, like a Bichon Frise with one that tends to shed may be a good choice. Determine if the two breeds are good with families with children, other pets and senior citizens, if need be. Find out if the dog can handle apartment living and less exercise or needs more space and lots of area to run and play. Is the coat high maintenance requiring frequent brushing and trips to the groomer? Are they large consumers of food? These and other factors will help you choose the type of designer dog that best suits your lifestyle.
Most experienced breeders will be able to tell you what characteristics will develop as the puppy grows. They are often able to predict what coat type the dog will have and the kind of care it will need. Temperament can be harder to predict because it develops past the age of adoption. But the good breeder usually has the history of other successful litters to draw upon. The important message here is to research and select a highly regarded breeder. The AKC is a good place to start your search. Enjoy your new special companion!
| Name: | Weezie |
| Nickname(s): | The Boss |
| Gender: | female |
| Characteristics: | One eye, white face, very large pointy ears |
| Personality: | stealthy, determined, quiet, funny |
