Grooming Fluffy Dogs | How to Care for the Double Coated Dog

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBlg2PKZo0WUpcsy-AAtg5yyjdr1urT5Kq77eWbeW79hYdrC9QduJAdQhhHjetmsRlKQZhIAAmCCjgDv7m4wb1Zd53lQaBECSEzapAhR5Xta5aq0LjJo5X1uNnyAUQX66RolsjJa4FH6d/s1600/Smitty+AOM+crop_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Champion Border Collie in Full Coat" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBlg2PKZo0WUpcsy-AAtg5yyjdr1urT5Kq77eWbeW79hYdrC9QduJAdQhhHjetmsRlKQZhIAAmCCjgDv7m4wb1Zd53lQaBECSEzapAhR5Xta5aq0LjJo5X1uNnyAUQX66RolsjJa4FH6d/s1600/Smitty+AOM+crop_0001.jpg" height="526" title="Well groomed fluffy dog" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grooming not only keeps your dog's coat in good health, it reduces the amount of hair shed in your home and provides an opportunity to bond more closely with your dog. Whether you are wanting to keep your dog's coat in show condition or are just looking to keep it free of mats, these tips on caring for your fluffy dog will make short work of keeping your dog healthy looking and your home free of unwanted dog hair.</span><br /><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grooming Basics 101</span></h3><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before brushing your dog, always mist him lightly with a little water from a spray bottle. The water will eliminate static electricity</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and provide elasticity to the coat to prevent breakage of hair the shafts.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you can hear the brush as it is pulling through the coat, you are brushing too hard or using the wrong style brush on the coat.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Always brush out your dog and remove any mats before bathing him.  Washing a dog with loose hair or mats will only aggravate the situation, causing the mats to grow in size and become more tightly matted.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grooming gives you an opportunity to detect wounds, lumps or changes in the skin and coat condition that may help you detect a serious condition early on.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clean coat grows coat; dirt on coats breaks hair shafts leaving unwanted hair around the house.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Double coated dogs shed their undercoats twice a year.  Dead and loose undercoat</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> that remains on the dog will quickly generate difficult to remove mats.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most dogs enjoy the attention of grooming when it is done regularly.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10 minutes a week is all that is necessary to keep the average fluffy dog coat in good condition.</span></li></ul><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grooming Tools for the Double Coated Dog</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cost of all of these grooming tools together is less than one visit to a professional groomer, and they are well worth having on hand.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tkeboIrxgDVX4GNXa3wSP_ZoCIwx6aOpTmlDGqZO4Q_oI2dnouZUQsl-cTAjrE1XHqvUqD_DPCYj6FQn3KHcp6tJWLZOowEe3HXi-wryYhBdPLI5AjR6U0fIktCWF5y9J2pITttByWI3/s1600/All+systems+pin+brush+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pin Brush for Dog Grooming" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tkeboIrxgDVX4GNXa3wSP_ZoCIwx6aOpTmlDGqZO4Q_oI2dnouZUQsl-cTAjrE1XHqvUqD_DPCYj6FQn3KHcp6tJWLZOowEe3HXi-wryYhBdPLI5AjR6U0fIktCWF5y9J2pITttByWI3/s1600/All+systems+pin+brush+small.jpg" height="200" title="Dog Brush" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pin Brush by #1 All Systems</span></td></tr></tbody></table><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Pin Brush</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pin brush is the essential brush that you will use for weekly maintenance of your dog's double coat.  It should slide easily through the coat without making any rough scraping or tearing sounds. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pin brushes come in two style, those with nobs on the ends of the pins, and those with a straight pin that is gently rounded on the tips.  Never use the style with nobs on the ends.  These are designed to remove coat, however they pull and tear at healthy coat, making the grooming experience unpleasant and even painful for dogs.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Poodle Comb</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeVm_LM26HDXWIp7n8IxhXN3WkmLZgYWx6MAdmbbJE-OG7-rHNDXXXUB016JVqyqlqMMjBulR3bhJj2ToO_-QVj0ak8eTR9Fk9ii0a710sS3ykqOZPj1S_HNbn9VuYRYkgSYK3OSzt7CuH/s1600/Master+Groomer+Comb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wide Toothed Poodle Comb" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeVm_LM26HDXWIp7n8IxhXN3WkmLZgYWx6MAdmbbJE-OG7-rHNDXXXUB016JVqyqlqMMjBulR3bhJj2ToO_-QVj0ak8eTR9Fk9ii0a710sS3ykqOZPj1S_HNbn9VuYRYkgSYK3OSzt7CuH/s1600/Master+Groomer+Comb.jpg" height="200" title="Dog grooming Comb" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Master Groomer Poodle Comb</td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This wide toothed comb is used as a finishing comb for double coated dogs, once the dog's coat is free of any mats or loose hair. The teeth of the poodle comb are spaced at 1/4 inch distance from each other.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The comb is used to detect any small mats and clumps of loose hair that were missed in the brush-out of the dog.  If the comb sticks, you need to investigate that area of the dogs coat more carefully; this is how you prevent small tangles from becoming large mats over the course of the week.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Slicker Brush</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpy-0OlZlcPkNIXUDzpTWnwhcj-cEglV7pSCH_FrtH0QCof8EL5umHmZjkE-VeHQFSd6z93IFrAZIb4nk3qu5URU_4E4DZ3TaFUgMlVGrMhR8Lm0Qy2htVIUS_pW7S4t8_S0bVeTU9Gw9/s1600/Master+Grooming+slicker.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpy-0OlZlcPkNIXUDzpTWnwhcj-cEglV7pSCH_FrtH0QCof8EL5umHmZjkE-VeHQFSd6z93IFrAZIb4nk3qu5URU_4E4DZ3TaFUgMlVGrMhR8Lm0Qy2htVIUS_pW7S4t8_S0bVeTU9Gw9/s1600/Master+Grooming+slicker.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slicker Brush</td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Slicker brush is used for mat removal and grooming the furnishings (feathers on the front legs, pants and hair on the hocks and behind the ears).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We will discuss its use in mat removal further down in this article.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mat Breakers</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are two styles of mat breakers. The one with the longer teeth is best used for cutting apart large, fist sized mats.  The one with the shorter teeth is good for stripping out and thinning under coat. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As undercoat sheds and remains nestled in with the healthy hairs, it </span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7-bXM72jAT6mcR64rzBf3JUxRF-USuW5o03xlYN26b0E2ZIIaMU_0OtEfWw6Q36RRqrJTKS-aDjLf-QYy1uVlbucXUjX7M81laEOTx4vKJ3hK799QT7u7hcFAohbdlldNRLGhx38i3fR/s1600/Mat+remover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mat Remover for Dogs" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7-bXM72jAT6mcR64rzBf3JUxRF-USuW5o03xlYN26b0E2ZIIaMU_0OtEfWw6Q36RRqrJTKS-aDjLf-QYy1uVlbucXUjX7M81laEOTx4vKJ3hK799QT7u7hcFAohbdlldNRLGhx38i3fR/s1600/Mat+remover.jpg" title="Dog Grooming Tools" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Short Blade Mat Breaker By Safari</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">begins to form a loose mat. The short blades are good for stripping out those loose mats, as the longer bladed mat remover will simple glide through the loose tangles.</span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Removing undercoat can help cool the double coated dog in the summer months, and is also done on show dogs to help sculpt the dog's outline.  Dogs with an over abundance of hair on the loins and rear can look "high in the rear."  Removing excess undercoat reveals the dog's true structure.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAb_9YtW7_GrV4Ohh7DFC6cGG2Qd3rwMy_TT2_PaZDlc_PUNddbQAG9eQT_DEvFGUIXFG_ZJAgEEq4T2EH26ngzpYXBzz4ghfK75cJ_iQDMzF96jGL7Wb6DachCH_WOLwSNSaygRRQXKyN/s1600/mat+breaker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="grooming tool mat remover" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAb_9YtW7_GrV4Ohh7DFC6cGG2Qd3rwMy_TT2_PaZDlc_PUNddbQAG9eQT_DEvFGUIXFG_ZJAgEEq4T2EH26ngzpYXBzz4ghfK75cJ_iQDMzF96jGL7Wb6DachCH_WOLwSNSaygRRQXKyN/s1600/mat+breaker.jpg" height="184" title="Mat remover" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Long Tooth Dematting Comb for Large Mats</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rolling the Coat on a Double Coated Dog</span></h3></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rolling the coat removes dead and loose hair, encourages new hair growth and distributes the dog's natural oils along the hair shafts. This should be performed once a week, and will reduce the amount of shedding around your home considerably. Rolling the coat</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> should only take about 5 minutes per side of the dog when done on a weekly basis.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To roll the coat, mist your dog with water from a spray bottle before beginning.  Have your dog lie down on his side, and using a pin brush <i>without</i> nobs on the ends of the pins, begin back brushing the coat at the shoulder.  Back brushing means that you will brush a small amount of hair in the reverse direction of how the hair naturally grows and lays. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold the coat towards the front of your dog gently down as you brush the hair back towards the head of the dog, creating a part in the coat. Continue back brushing 2 inches of coat with each stroke moving down the side of the dog towards the tail. Brushing in the opposite direction of how the hair lays allows you to get to the base of each hair shaft and remove all dead or loose hairs on the dog.  </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you have back brushed all the hairs from the shoulder to the pants in the opposite direction of its growth pattern, brush the hairs gently back to the direction it normally lays. Turn the dog over, mist again and repeat on the opposite side.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After rolling the coat, you should be able to easily pull a wide toothed comb, or Poodle comb, easily through the dog's coat.  Any places where the comb sticks, should be investigated for small tangles or mats. This is all that is required to keep a double coated dog's coat in good condition when he is not in a shedding phase.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Double Coated Dog's Shedding Phase</span></h3><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87PFfygNsGc9Wxl52DuSKdBWhaeN6H67MAWJWAgoU8pedmkqsQiNcQJjcPTfBTRx5N781v6kjh2XdJEo2pqtCcHHbW4WXrXY2A0Zfcbh_vViKZk-jXJCESu9pTUARVwU1Tn0c_Kmp1vxd/s1600/Shedding+Rake+Double+Row.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Row Shedding Rake" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87PFfygNsGc9Wxl52DuSKdBWhaeN6H67MAWJWAgoU8pedmkqsQiNcQJjcPTfBTRx5N781v6kjh2XdJEo2pqtCcHHbW4WXrXY2A0Zfcbh_vViKZk-jXJCESu9pTUARVwU1Tn0c_Kmp1vxd/s1600/Shedding+Rake+Double+Row.jpg" height="320" title="dog grooming tools" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shedding Rake</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Twice a year double coated dogs will "blow coat." This is when they shed most of their undercoat and the remaining guard hairs may become dry and brittle looking.  It may take up to three weeks for a dog to fully blow their coat.  This is the time that most mats are formed if dead hairs are allowed to remain without regularly being brushed out.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brushing with a pin brush will take forever to remove all of the loose hairs, however a shedding rake will make quick work of removing dead and loose hairs.  With a few passes over the back and sides of your dog, you can remove the majority of dead hair in a few minutes.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mat Removal</span></h3></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have a double coated dog, it is inevitable that a mat will eventually form on your dog. Favorite mat sites are behind the ears, the pants and under the forearms where the arm and body rub together.  Some dogs lose coat during their shed in tufts, making it easy to spot that the time for the shedding rake has arrived.  Other coats tend to hold in the loose hairs, creating a dense mass of hair along the rump and pants of the dog hiding beneath the guard hairs.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Depending on the type of mats you are dealing with, there are several techniques to help you easily and painlessly remove the mats and preserve healthy coat.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Removing Small Mats in Delicate Areas</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Small mats behind the ears can be removed with scissors.  Using thinning shears near the base of the mat will make the removal of the mat less noticeable.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcEJ4lQEkRH7Cq7SPZdvOzyaSigcNjmATfiOs5mRWhzWh9pIfPQawllIQe9br_cNyq6YzGNejxyvHHTC0u-EdO_-QnRJ1Ge0EilPh_UGD7oD-oFAsPbHA3WquFHXEcvGFSi2KjWwHL-OGT/s1600/Geib+medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stainless Steel Finishing Comb" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcEJ4lQEkRH7Cq7SPZdvOzyaSigcNjmATfiOs5mRWhzWh9pIfPQawllIQe9br_cNyq6YzGNejxyvHHTC0u-EdO_-QnRJ1Ge0EilPh_UGD7oD-oFAsPbHA3WquFHXEcvGFSi2KjWwHL-OGT/s1600/Geib+medium.jpg" height="320" title="Grooming tool" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use the narrow tines to tease apart small or loose mats.</td></tr></tbody></table></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For small mats on delicate areas, you can tease out the mat with a finishing comb. Begin with the hairs farthest away from the dogs skin, and gently try to separate the hairs from each other.  You may need to use a short blade mat remover to encourage the hairs to separate.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When using any mat remover with blades, angle the blade ends away from the dog's body with the sharp sides of the blades facing away from the dogs body.  In this video, they use a Coat King type undercoat rake to tease out the mat. Mars make the Coat King, however Oster makes a similar tool (pictured here) that works equally well for half of the price.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/WRXM8EfFYNE/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/WRXM8EfFYNE&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/WRXM8EfFYNE&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here the groomer uses a slicker brush with its fine tines to identify mats. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then he uses a finishing comb to tease apart small mats.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold the fur at the base of the mat when teasing the mat apart, to keep from pulling on the dogs skin.  </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More stubborn mats on the ear are teased apart with the short blades of the Oster undercoat rake.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last of the loose hairs is removed by the fine teeth of the finishing comb. If you don't have a finishing comb, use the slicker brush to remove the final loose hairs.</span></li></ul><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Removing Large Mats and Densely Packed Fur Over Large Areas</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>For Large Mats:</b> You may wish to spray the mat first with a detangler designed for dog coats. Best Shot makes a good detangler; our favorite is the <a href="http://www.wags-n-whiskers-giftbaskets.com/Isle-of-Dogs-Detangler-Spray-Coature-Number-63-p/iod-63-250.htm#.VEqoNLDF-RM" rel="nofollow">Isle of Dogs Detangler #63</a>. We love this detangler because it can be left in without attracting dirt, which creates new mats, plus it smells like honeysuckles! </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When using a detangler, spray it on the matted area, working it into the matted area with your fingers, then wait 3-5 minutes before grooming out the mat.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use the long blade mat comb to slice through tightly knitted mats. Using a sawing action, start at the loose end of the mat stroking away from the dog, working towards the base of the knot in successive strokes. This is performed with a gentle but firm sawing with blades facing away from the dog's skin (this action is demonstrated in the video below). </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make several passes until it easily glides through the knot.  Using a slicker brush, gently remove the loose hairs in short strokes on the hairs at end of the knot, working in towards the body of the dog. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finish by running a comb over the area to ensure all tangles and loose hair have been removed.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/K587zDEUe9U/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/K587zDEUe9U&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/K587zDEUe9U&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here the groomer demonstrates the sawing action required to break the mat, </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">then follows up with a slicker brush and finishing comb.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>                                  <object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/vSc1Txhv_ZI/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/vSc1Txhv_ZI&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/vSc1Txhv_ZI&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Removing Dead Densely Packed Undercoat</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If a large area of the dog is tightly packed with dead hair, it can make it difficult to even feel the dogs skin beneath the coat. &nbsp;Begin by spraying liberally with a coat detangler, then allow it to sit for 3-5 minutes.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starting at the base of the matted area or above the tail of the dog. Press the coat back towards the head, and begin teasing the coat towards the tail with a slicker brush, a little at a time.  If the coat is stubborn, use the mat remover with short blades to separate and cut the tangled hairs.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the hairs loosen, repeat brushing with the slicker brush.  Continue going back and forth between the mat remover and the slicker brush until the area is mat free, going over it a final time with a comb with coarse tine spacing.  See the demonstration below on this dog's matted pants. Note she starts at the bottom of the tangled area to tease out the tangles in his coat.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As hair is loosened and removed, she reapplies detangler to speed the process.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/jtyWcZGp4VA/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/jtyWcZGp4VA&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/jtyWcZGp4VA&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quickly Removing Hair from Matted Pants</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div></div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=themodbar0e-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0002ARR2W&asins=B0002ARR2W&linkId=KYLQFL3AO4GRCH4H&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=themodbar0e-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00GSEPNW2&asins=B00GSEPNW2&linkId=7BVYQK72N25QISAM&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=themodbar0e-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000YJ4DM8&asins=B000YJ4DM8&linkId=MTVKC75VDJXOX2UP&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>

AKC Recognizes 2 New Dog Breeds in 2014

<div style="text-align: right;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrx-brlBS0E-EtVz2-xk__vlkMVJTLHg_YqoNn3L-j5v44VHji63vhfyH2eXO0WXTe7cxBvRK8oT2i2SXxPvq8Tk_shD8fn6BpF-3x6KFjKY4J05hbRSgLInnDXztBwySihuRyr9NDPxv/s1600/1++coton_de_tulear10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrx-brlBS0E-EtVz2-xk__vlkMVJTLHg_YqoNn3L-j5v44VHji63vhfyH2eXO0WXTe7cxBvRK8oT2i2SXxPvq8Tk_shD8fn6BpF-3x6KFjKY4J05hbRSgLInnDXztBwySihuRyr9NDPxv/s1600/1++coton_de_tulear10.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.akc.org/breeds/coton_de_tulear/breed_standard.cfm" target="_blank">Learn more about the Coton De Tulear</a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year the American Kennel Club has allowed two new breeds to join their roster of pure bred dogs.  The Wirehaired Vizsla has joined the Sporting Group while the darling Coton De Tulear has entered the Non-Sporting Group.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Coton De Tulear</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This tiny fluffy dog is the national dog of Madagascar, where the breed originated. Named for its cottony white coat, "Coton" and the Port of Madagascar, Tulear, these charming dogs have </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">graced </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Madagascar's</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">national stamps.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The breed standard calls for a gay and light-hearted dog that is never demanding. The tail is carried happily over the back and the proportions of the dog are slightly longer that tall.  </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The expression of the Coton is a smiling one that expresses "joie de vivre." The temperament of the breed is marked by a unique sympathy to the emotions of those around them. They are also known for their unique vocalizations which may include unusual grunts and growls.  Bred purely as companion dogs, the Coton listens well when spoken to and often tries to answer.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall the coat is dense, dry and cottony, never harsh. It should be white, with occasional light tan or grey shading on the ears or back.  On the body, the light color should not cover more than 5% of the dog.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Wirehaired Viszla </span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPHSVQCmX_568T3wpQ_PLJj2j_KGHl3KcBaessVPg4ToQaGOeA1CYKGFpZW4RNJOH832XfGtQd-FZvBFSy9s5GlL093Iuah6_NZdS4KVLhRc4-Arc-58rmgo4_qNL3zGVXIg-SUmV_IIC/s1600/1++Vizsla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPHSVQCmX_568T3wpQ_PLJj2j_KGHl3KcBaessVPg4ToQaGOeA1CYKGFpZW4RNJOH832XfGtQd-FZvBFSy9s5GlL093Iuah6_NZdS4KVLhRc4-Arc-58rmgo4_qNL3zGVXIg-SUmV_IIC/s1600/1++Vizsla.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.akc.org/breeds/wirehaired_vizsla/breed_standard.cfm" target="_blank">Learn more about the Wirehaired Vizsla </a></td></tr></tbody></table></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Developed in the 1940's in Hungary from the standard Hungarian Viszla, hunters were seeking a sturdier dog with a coat that could stand up to the harsh Hungarian winters. They possess a dense wiry coat with bearded facial furnishings and "eyebrows." </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The wirehaired vizsla has an excellent sense of smell and is a great tracker of things made of fur or feathers. Sturdily built, these dogs cover ground easily in all terrains.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The wirehaired vizsla is biddable and easy to train and handle.  As sensitive dogs, they do not respond well to heavy-handed treatment.   Lively and gentle, they make excellent companions. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With these two additions to their rooster, the AKC now recognizes 180 pure breeds.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>

Treating Dog Anxiety | 3 Proven Treatments for Fear of Thunderstorms and Fireworks

<h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How Prevalent is Dog Anxiety for Thunder</span></h3><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EHS0hYDC-kMMFyJIIztbB2Es_o1-Q4Ui4ZNOfHiY4bkMK9B-5fYJAWsAsT35BFRr3qPqNwpxTD2yNLH8UoNBbGoWxx3ZT1ilw-LcUtNTaykmB8_VxwWBM1WQU0eoMpxC4hNSYivr2SI7/s1600/1++boom+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EHS0hYDC-kMMFyJIIztbB2Es_o1-Q4Ui4ZNOfHiY4bkMK9B-5fYJAWsAsT35BFRr3qPqNwpxTD2yNLH8UoNBbGoWxx3ZT1ilw-LcUtNTaykmB8_VxwWBM1WQU0eoMpxC4hNSYivr2SI7/s1600/1++boom+2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Typical dog fear stance: ears back, whites of the </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">eyes </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">showing,</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> head lowered</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and back hunched.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A dog anxiety survey of 2000 dog owners found that approximately 13% of dogs suffer from noise phobias, defined as a persistent, irrational fear response. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yet of those surveyed, only one third of the respondents whose dogs exhibited  symptoms had sought any treatment or professional advice to manage their dog's condition.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Furthermore the Bristol survey found that 50% of owners did not recognize that behaviors they reported in response to loud noises were in fact fear related symptoms.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are <b>three effective treatments</b> for reducing canine anxiety caused by fireworks, gunshots and thunderstorms.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Causes of Noise Phobias and Anxiety</span></h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some dogs exhibit fear of loud noises from and early age while others display a sudden or slowly increasing fear of loud noises over time.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Certain breeds, such as the gun dogs, (labs and spaniels) tend to have a higher tolerance for loud noises, while other breeds, such as the border collie, have a high incidence of noise phobia, suggesting there is a genetic component to noise sensitivity.  </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As dogs age, their sensitivity to noise may increase, and negative experiences such as being outdoors during a severe thunderstorm can create new phobias where one never before existed.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once a phobia has developed, particularly regarding thunderstorms, dogs may associate atmospheric changes with the noise. Changes in barometric pressure, increased static in the air and rain alone can trigger the fear response.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dog Anxiety Symptoms</span></h3><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dogs with noise phobias may manifest a variety of dog anxiety symptoms.  Symptoms may be obvious, such as panting, pacing, barking, trembling or shaking, seeking human company or hiding under beds, in bathtubs and behind furniture or toileting in the home.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">  </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Less obvious anxiety symptoms that are often misread include increased salivation, licking, urinating or defecating indoors, and in some cases destructive behavior including; carpet and upholstered furniture digging and scratching at doors or walls. In severe cases of noise phobia, dogs may become aggressive resulting growling and biting behavior. It is important to realize that these behaviors are born out of real terror; the dogs are not "acting out."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we can’t control thunderstorms, random gun shots or fireworks, we can take steps to manage our dog’s reaction to the noise stimuli and reduce their anxiety level.  These steps can include removing the dog from the stimuli, natural anti-anxiety medications with desensitization therapy and easy massage therapy. Any combination of these approaches can be applied.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h4><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#1 Quick Fix: Remove the Dog From The Stimulus</span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In instances where we can predict the dog will react to a threatening sound, such as Fourth of July fireworks, we can insulate the dog from the sound.  Basements without windows are the best area of the house to contain the dog.  If the room you select does have windows, close the blinds so he can’t see the bursts of fireworks or lightning which he will have already associated with a corresponding explosion. Turn on music loud enough to drown out the sound of fireworks. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some dogs may have a preference for hiding in a bathroom, which should be respected. The porcelain and tile in these areas may help dissipate static electricity in the air, and help reduce some of the fear stimulus.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crate training can also provide a dog with a safe go-to area.  If your dog has been <a href="http://themodernbark.blogspot.com/2013/02/crate-training-made-easy.html" target="_blank">properly crate trained</a> and seeks out his crate as a comfortable rest spot, then the crate should be added to the basement or bathroom for an additional sense of safety.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a short term fix; for a long term solution you will need to employ counter conditioning, teaching the dog to be okay with the noises they fear.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><h4><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#2 Homeopathic Remedy: Melatonin for Dogs with Fear of Thunder and Loud Noises</span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melatonin has produced dramatic results for some dogs with fear of thunder.  Melatonin is available over the counter; it is a naturally occurring neuro-hormone, with a number of veterinary uses because of its sedative properties. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melatonin has been shown to help regulate sleep disorders for older dogs, and can help dogs adjust to stressful situations including separation anxiety and noise phobias. Dogs treated with melatonin prior to a thunderstorm remain awake, alert and relaxed.  They do not appear to be reacting to the thunderstorm at all. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some dogs can actually permanently overcome their noise phobias with treatment on Melatonin. As dogs remain calm while experiencing the stimulus, they can become desensitized to the sounds and atmospheric changes associated with a thunderstorm.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Proper dosage for a 40-50 pound dog is 3 mg (that is the human adult dose). For small dogs under 30 pounds 1.5 mg and for large dogs over 100 pounds up to 6 mg. These doses may be administered 3 times daily as necessary.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Flower essences such as <i>Rescue Remedy</i> have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety for nervous show dogs, and can be safely used in conjunction with the melatonin treatment.  The most effective <i>Rescue Remedy</i> is the form that is added to their drinking water.</span></div>                                                                                                                         <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B005DEK990&asins=B005DEK990&linkId=VFAGYOZBEUG5XTFE&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melatonin Pros:</span></h3><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Effective anti-anxiety medication for canine separation anxiety and noise phobias</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Antioxidant properties may control free radicals</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">May help in controlling epileptic seizures</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">May aid in the treatment of Canine Cushings Disease.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Balances sleep disorders, and allows dogs to sleep through the night</span></li></ul><br /><h3><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melatonin Side effects</span></h3><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">May affect female reproductive cycle or make her unreceptive to males</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Possible drug interactions can occur with medications which the dog is already taking such as sedatives, steroids and monoamine oxidase inhibitors</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In rare cases some dogs may become excessively lethargic or increasingly nervous</span></li></ul><br /><h4><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#3 TTouch Massage and The Thunder Shirt for Anxiety</span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Thunder Shirt has been proven to reduce the anxiety of many dogs.  Its technology is based on the work of Linda Tellington-Jones and her T Touch Therapy. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Tellington TTouch</b>  is a method based on circular movements of the fingers and hands on areas all over the dog’s body. The intent of the TTouch is to change the brain waves of the dog by activating “cellular intelligence.”  Additionally, endorphins are believed to be released by the massage technique. Awakening cellular intelligence sounds like hocus pocus, but the therapy does work to help adjust behavioral problems and calm cats, dogs and horses.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">According to the <a href="http://www.ttouch.com/" target="_blank">TTouch website</a>, “Using a combination of specific touches, lifts, and movement exercises, TTouch helps to release tension and increase body awareness. Allowing the animal to be handled without provoking typical fear responses. The animal can then more easily learn new and more appropriate behaviors.” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If nothing else, TTouch builds a better rapport between owner and pet, ultimately increasing trust and building self-confidence in the animal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TTouch can help in cases of: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chewing</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Excessive Barking</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jumping Up</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Leash Pulling</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Extreme Fear or Shyness</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Aggressive Behavior</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/84tW1XjuKnk/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/84tW1XjuKnk&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/84tW1XjuKnk&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here <b>Linda Tellington-Jones demonstrates the TTouch method</b>. It's simple and looks relaxing. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This therapy can be used in counter-conditioning. Teaching the dog the word "settle" or "relax," while employing TTouch therapy on a regular basis, can aid in settling the dog during a thunderstorm.  Once the dog knows the command, and has associated it with positive experiences, you may be able to apply the technique during an active storm to calm him.  However, you must be careful not to reward nervous and unwanted behavior.  If his anxiety levels begin to increase, you should try a different tactic. Rather than rewarding the behavior with massage, you can use a <i>ThunderShirt</i> to apply the principles of the technique without encouraging nervous behavior.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Other counter conditioning tactics that may be employed include only allowing him to have a favorite treat or toy just prior to and during a thunderstorm. In time the dog will begin to associate thunderstorms with good things. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The ThunderShirt</b></span><br />                                                                                                                             <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ThunderShirt works by applying gentle pressure to the dog’s body, similar to swaddling an infant. This pressure produces a soothing effect. In fact, the TTouch trainers often use ace bandages wrapped around the dog for an additional calming effect during training sessions.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some experts believe that ThunderShirt helps the body to naturally release endorphins, and  80% of users report benefits to using ThunderShirt for noise and separation anxiety.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before using the ThunderShirt, the manufacturer recommends you use the Thundershirt as a placemat for your dog’s food bowl.  Introducing the ThunderShirt in conjunction with food should make the dog more comfortable with the new apparel.  It can be worn all day while you are a work, and is machine washable.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/i6BTH-EMwLk/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/i6BTH-EMwLk&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/i6BTH-EMwLk&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>How to put on the ThunderShirt - Easy as 1,2,3</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0028QK6EY&asins=B0028QK6EY&linkId=ZIZU36EDU4VKU26B&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B003TTZV26&asins=B003TTZV26&linkId=CFGGWCBIUC7PKDV5&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B007CMHUZ2&asins=B007CMHUZ2&linkId=HVUQKFDCEVMDU5UH&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The ThunderShirt does come with a 45 day guarantee. If the shirt does not produce results, you can return it for your full money back.</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ThunderShirts can now be purchased in a variety of fashion colors and patterns.  Consider combining them with Melatonin treatments to desensatize your dog to thunderstorms and fireworks.</span></div>

Breakthrough In Pain Treatment For Dogs With Osteosarcoma

Between 6000-8000 dogs in the United States receive treatment for Osteosarcoma each year.  Typically a disease of large breed dogs, Osteosarcoma can affect breeds of all sizes.  As the disease progresses, it reshapes normal healthy bone tissue and changes it to tumorous bone.  In dogs as in people, this remodeling process becomes increasingly more painful as the disease progresses, impacting activity levels and quality of life.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8WAiMGgwjCnIvQI1Odjs7vPDmZi0jw_Cm44OD5T__MlJJK68AveP-ZClNZRiGy7Ul0TAT1sXWa9YWAYiam-6VyjIL_tO7uo3ZLqTU_snoG1JK-z-hT0yPmlUbsdtpMgRFIbf1O7jHWIA/s1600/1+osteosarcoma-x-ray-sarcoma-images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8WAiMGgwjCnIvQI1Odjs7vPDmZi0jw_Cm44OD5T__MlJJK68AveP-ZClNZRiGy7Ul0TAT1sXWa9YWAYiam-6VyjIL_tO7uo3ZLqTU_snoG1JK-z-hT0yPmlUbsdtpMgRFIbf1O7jHWIA/s320/1+osteosarcoma-x-ray-sarcoma-images.jpg" height="320" width="187" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #777777; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dr. Vladimir Osipov Sarcomaimages.com</span></em></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3>The Dorothy Cimino Brown, DVM and Kimberly Agnello DVM University of Pennsylvania Study</h3><div>Seventy dogs suffering from Osteosarcoma participated in this study.  A variety of breeds were represented including Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrieves and various mixed breeds. The average size of the dogs in the study was 90 pounds, and the average age fell between 8 and 9 years.  The study was conducted by splitting the group in half and treating both groups with standard care, while the second group also received a single injection of a Neurotoxin, SP-sap (P-saporin), near the tumor site.</div><div><br /></div><div>A similar neurotoxin many of us are familiar with is Botox, the anti-wrinkle injection. Botox acts to block signals from the nerves to the muscles, so that the muscles can no longer contract.  When specific muscles cannot contract, the wrinkle appears to soften.</div><div><br /></div><div>Similarly, SP-sap works by attaching itself to the pain sensing nerves. Once attached, the sap portion kills off the nerve.  The theory is, no more pain sensing nerve then no more pain.</div><div><br /></div><h3>Study Results</h3><div>Six weeks into the study, 74% of the dogs in the control group (those receiving only standard care) had significant increases in pain levels, and needed to be removed from the control group or "unblinded" in order to have their pain management adjusted.  </div><div><br /></div><div>In contrast with the control group, only 24% of the dogs in the SP-sap group needed to be "unblinded" for adjustments to their pain management.</div><div><br /></div><div>Additionally, the dogs in the control group, who were receiving only standard care, experienced a 6% increase in pain severity testing.  The dogs who received the single SP-sap injection experienced no increase in pain severity.</div><div><br /></div><div>And more encouraging, the dogs in the control group experienced and 8% decreases in how pain interferes with their daily activities, while the SP-sap group had a 5% improvement in their daily activities.</div><div><br /></div><div> <h3>The Implications</h3></div><div>As Osteosarcoma afflicts both dogs and people in the same manner, this study is potentially good news for both humans and canines.  Relieving pain is critical to improving the patient's quality of life, response to treatment and the overall patient outcome.  The positive results from this study are likely to spark further investigation into SP-sap and other neurotoxins for pain management of Osteosarcoma as well as other diseases with chronic pain symptoms as well.<br /><br />To learn more about this study visit:<a href="http://www.asahq.org/For-the-Public-and-Media/Press-Room/Anesthesiology-and-Other-Scientific-Press-Releases/Mans-Best-Friend.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px;">American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) (2013, October 23). Chronic pain in dogs with bone cancer relieved with new treatment.</span></a><br /><br /></div><script type="text/javascript"><!-- amazon_ad_tag = "bungonews-20"; amazon_ad_width = "600"; amazon_ad_height = "520";//--></script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/s/ads.js"></script>

4 Promising Studies: Early Detection and Treatment Options for Canine Hemangiosarcoma

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVosnCi37_zLvwICFPaliIpAR73vdVVP-Hhvf-O2c5Xmzzqlu_RZ98uwodGno43sTr2blk37i8LPCU0WkMCQCp1N2dI0UpNftukMnq7rb1SS-xfqy5HA1-qK3MbfzW4BuD8POrrtSNsJm/s1600/golden-retriever-dog-1364426710r9x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVosnCi37_zLvwICFPaliIpAR73vdVVP-Hhvf-O2c5Xmzzqlu_RZ98uwodGno43sTr2blk37i8LPCU0WkMCQCp1N2dI0UpNftukMnq7rb1SS-xfqy5HA1-qK3MbfzW4BuD8POrrtSNsJm/s320/golden-retriever-dog-1364426710r9x.jpg" height="311" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/view-image.php?image=35696&picture=golden-retriever-dog" target="_blank">Courtesy of Public Domain Images</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Hemangiosarcoma is a form of cancer found almost exclusively in dogs. A relatively common canine cancer (6-8% of all canine cancers) it is estimated that 2 million of 73 million dogs currently alive in the United States will develop the disease and die from it.<br /><br />At this time, it is considered incurable, as it remains symptomless until the advanced stages of the disease.  The current standard of care, surgery and chemotherapy, have proven to extend the life to the affected dog a mere median of 180 days with surgery alone, and an additionally 180 days with chemotherapy added to surgical intervention.<br /><br />In the wake of these poor treatment outcomes, research has focused on<a href="http://themodernbark.blogspot.com/2013/03/15-warning-signs-of-cancer-in-dogs.html" target="_blank"> early detection </a>of the disease as well as a new, very promising alternative medicine approach.<br /><br /></div><h3>Hemangiosarcoma</h3><div class="MsoNormal">Hemangiosarcoma is an indolent cancer, meaning it initially develops very slowly, asymptomatically and painlessly.  The most common primary sites of the disease are the spleen, right atrium of the heart and the tissue beneath the skin.  In the later stages of the disease, the cancer aggressively metastasizes to the lungs, liver and intestines.   While dogs of any age and breed may be susceptible to hemangiosarcoma, it occurs more commonly in dogs beyond middle age, and has a higher incidence in breeds such as German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs and Skye Terriers, suggesting a genetic component is involved.<br /><br /></div><h3>The Canine Genome</h3><div class="MsoNormal">The completion of the Canine Genome Project has spurred research into the genetic components of a wide variety of physical ailments believed to have heritable factors. Researchers at Modiano Lab at the University of Minnesota have taken an interest in the genetic components contributing to hemangiosarcoma.   Three of the more promising approaches involve mapping the risk alleles associated with the disease, determining the genetic, breed-specific abnormalities of the tumors themselves and developing a blood test for early detection of cancer cells via flow cytology.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The first project, developed in collaboration with Dr. Matthew Breen, focused on the possibility of breed specific abnormalities that may be detectable in tumors arising in dogs of different breeds. The initial results were promising; the data showed that tumors from dogs of one specific breed are functionally and genetically more similar to each other than they are to tumors from dogs of other breeds. This information demonstrates that heritable risk factors contribute to the development of canine cancer. More importantly, these results are the first step toward developing prevention and treatment strategies that address the specific causes underlying the biology of canine hemangiosarcoma.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The second project of great promise, developed in collaboration with the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, has begun the process of mapping the risk alleles for the development of both Lymphoma and Hemangiosarcoma in the following target breeds:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJhMAFPqipxzL7E3EEZzwAjSxDJTzRRkIBUhuFBxZCgmG62IG79ypQJmPqbOi1hnzJgMT9PZ1BU5MwnR5xUkizZkZ02nDB-gQM_sTZhCrKn_qO2xyt-l8qTl0Y0fK0urtBp6r_CXtKsMu/s1600/Turkey+Tail+Fungus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJhMAFPqipxzL7E3EEZzwAjSxDJTzRRkIBUhuFBxZCgmG62IG79ypQJmPqbOi1hnzJgMT9PZ1BU5MwnR5xUkizZkZ02nDB-gQM_sTZhCrKn_qO2xyt-l8qTl0Y0fK0urtBp6r_CXtKsMu/s1600/Turkey+Tail+Fungus.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turkey Tail Fungus - Penn State's Magic Mushrooms see below<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;">Courtesy of Wallwork Family Pages</span><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Source:<a href="http://www.wallwork.me.uk/backgrounds.html" style="color: #551a8b; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none;">http://www.wallwork.me.uk/backgrounds.html</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><ul><li>Australian Shepherd</li><li>Bernese Mountain Dog</li><li>Border Collie</li><li>Boxer</li><li>Briard</li><li>Bullmastiff</li><li>Cocker Spaniel</li><li>Flat-coated Retriever</li><li>German Shepherd Dog</li><li>Golden Retriever</li><li>Greyhound</li><li>Irish Setter</li><li>Keeshond</li><li>Labrador Retriever</li><li>Mastiff</li><li>Poodle</li><li>Portuguese Water Dog</li><li>Rottweiler</li><li>Vizsla</li><li>Saluki</li></ul></div><div class="MsoNormal">Researchers are currently seeking samples for this research in the form of blood samples and tumor samples with associated pedigree information.  Samples from mixed breeds and other breeds are welcome from both healthy (aged) dogs and affected dogs.  To learn more about how to contribute to the project visit the <a href="http://www.modianolab.org/studyInfo/studyInfo_index.shtm" target="_blank">Modiano Labs website</a>.<br /><br /></div><h3>Early Cancer Detection: Flow Cytometry</h3><div class="MsoNormal">Once we have a genetic test that can forewarn us of a genetic predisposition to developing specific cancers, we will want to be able to detect the disease at an early stage of its development, well before it becomes symptomatic. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">As cancer tumors grow, they shed cells into the blood stream.  However, the tumor cells are shed so infrequently that they cannot be detected in routine blood tests. Enter the technology called flow cytometry. Here cells are “tagged” with fluorescent molecules that identify their lineage of origin, they are then run through an instrument (the flow cytometer) that combines optics and fluidics information through a software capable of analyzing hundreds of thousands of cells in a matter of minutes.<br /><br />Researchers have employed this technology, and have successfully shown proof of principle for this test. Idexx Laboratories has licensed the technology from the University of Colorado, although the ultimate affordability of employing this technology in local veterinary practices tests remains to be seen.  Another issue with this technology, is that it does not tell us where the site of origin of the tumor is. Early treatment will therefore need to be able to treat the disease independent of the site of origin.<br /><br /></div><h3>The Biggest Breakthrough In Hemangiosarcoma Cancer Treatment: Penn State’s Magic Mushrooms</h3><div class="MsoNormal">In a Penn State study funded by Chinese Medicine Holding LTD. and released in September 2012, dogs with hemangiosarcoma were treated with a compound derived from the Coriolus Versicolor mushroom, resulting in the longest survival times ever reported for dogs with the disease. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The Coriolus Versicolor mushroom, known commonly as the Yunzhi mushroom, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. A compound within the mushroom, polysaccharopeptide, or PSP, is believed to have immune-boosting properties. Over the past two decades, studies have indicated that PSP may also have a tumor-fighting effect.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Penn State researchers studied dogs with naturally occurring hemangiosarcoma to see what effects, the Yunzhi mushroom would have on their patients. Fifteen dogs that had been diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma participated in the trial. Divided into three groups of five, each group received a different dose — 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day — of <b><a href="http://www.imyunityfordogs.com/order-now.html#!/~/product/id=18691546" target="_blank">I’m-Yunity</a></b>, a formulation of PSP which is also readily available over the Internet. The dog owners were instructed to give their dog a capsule of I’m-Yunity, daily. The owners brought their dogs to Penn’s Ryan Veterinary Hospital for follow-up visits on a monthly basis for blood sample testings and ultrasounds to determine the extent that tumors had developed or spread in the dogs’ bodies.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">“We were shocked,” Cimino Brown said of Penn State. “Prior to this, the longest reported median survival time of dogs with hemangiosarcoma of the spleen that underwent no further treatment was 86 days. We had dogs that lived beyond a year with nothing other than this mushroom as treatment.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Not only had the dog’s survival times increased with the use of PSP, but unlike chemotherapy, there were no reported side effects.  Dogs receiving the highest dosage, 100 mg/day, had the longest median survival time, however the difference in survival times between dosages was not statistically significant.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">While not inexpensive, this treatment is certainly more affordable than chemotherapy.  Those on tight budgets, may consider using this supplement at the lower dosage without fear of significantly impacting survival rates.  However, it should be noted that while the PSP, I’m Yunity, extends life and improves quality of life, it has not been shown to be a cure for hemangiosarcoma.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The Penn State researchers are preparing to pursue further trials of I’m-Yunity in dogs with hemangiosarcoma to confirm and refine their results. One upcoming trial will compare I’m-Yunity to a placebo for those owners who choose not to pursue chemotherapy for their pet; the other will compare the compound with the current standard-of-care, chemotherapy.<br /><br /><h4>Here are some options for Organic Turkey Tail Mushroom Extract </h4> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00CDAHGHA&asins=B00CDAHGHA&linkId=PXXVBRHALUJ4UTUA&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B009EV6762&asins=B009EV6762&linkId=7BPU4X7KTGGQWIJH&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000I4DHXK&asins=B000I4DHXK&linkId=3632AZP2VJQY62JH&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br /><br />The liquid form may be easier to administer.  The capsules are 500mg, so you would need to open the capsule and shake out 1/4 of the mushroom extract. For larger dogs (80 lbs and up) you may want to give them one third of a capsule or approximately 165mg.<br /><br />We will keep you posted as more information comes in from the ongoing Penn State Research.<br /><br />For information on Canine Osteosarcoma please <a href="http://themodernbark.blogspot.com/2013/04/osteosarcoma-in-dogs-diagnosis.html" target="_blank">click here</a>.</div>

5 Best Dog Life Jackets Reviewed

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajsLPtwCjyaYDDk1tucycBrSfFpAAPTI5QW3_alYthdW4fRnEevp5lSu-4XD1oQ7igrn8QCP4tvEbjZsDSOZ9Hu6O3leaBmatnJbF75aREkg20q446yd3Dpq8dkviFOXFTtMGyXwTUcf8/s1600/857672003101.RGHT__68416.1365713144.1280.1280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajsLPtwCjyaYDDk1tucycBrSfFpAAPTI5QW3_alYthdW4fRnEevp5lSu-4XD1oQ7igrn8QCP4tvEbjZsDSOZ9Hu6O3leaBmatnJbF75aREkg20q446yd3Dpq8dkviFOXFTtMGyXwTUcf8/s320/857672003101.RGHT__68416.1365713144.1280.1280.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Henry and Clemmies Red Life Jacket</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is A Life Jacket Really Necessary For Dogs?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's no better way to beat the summer heat than a romp in the water to cool down.  Whether its a trip to the beach, a lakeside treat or just a dip in the pool, both humans and their canine companions can enjoy strenuous exercise without over heating.  But pet owners should be mindful of the dangers involved in swimming and boating for their four legged friends.  Every year over 4000 dogs drown in swimming pools alone.  Even the strongest swimmer can become incapacitated in a boating or skiing accident.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Canine Life Preservers can aid dogs several ways.  The buoyancy of a good life jacket can minimize fatigue on extended play sessions, allowing you and your dog to enjoy water activities longer.  Brightly colored life vests improve the visibility of your dog for boaters, jetskiers and those being towed behind water vehicles.  In the case of extreme fatigue, strong currents or a blow to the head, a well made life vest and keep your pet afloat and strong handles can aid you in rescuing him from the water.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We took a careful look at a variety of the life jackets for dogs that are currently available on the market and compiled a list of the best life vests to make sure every day stays fun in the sun.  Be sure to scroll down to see fitting and use video.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Best Value: Outward Hound Life Jacket</span></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2btsQe3KlIxDBbNMg0th42nMCjhsNs0ITv7n19KUmkMUqKBsEuLaEQaQR9tWLAshyphenhyphenI7RDKFbZXQyFXzxDzLNE4dRQEpK14t236auG1_NIIA5OhdMHPrWZvDvF8O6m8eRhYYt9WKpCWOUs/s400/full_2527_view_003.jpg" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Outward Hound Dog Life Jacket in Pink</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2btsQe3KlIxDBbNMg0th42nMCjhsNs0ITv7n19KUmkMUqKBsEuLaEQaQR9tWLAshyphenhyphenI7RDKFbZXQyFXzxDzLNE4dRQEpK14t236auG1_NIIA5OhdMHPrWZvDvF8O6m8eRhYYt9WKpCWOUs/s1600/full_2527_view_003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kyjen, the maker of Outward Hound, is the leader in outdoor and travel gear for dogs. This sturdy life vest is lightweight and comes in a variety of colors and patterns.  We found it had the best price point across the board as it is carried by a large number of online and brick and mortar retailers. The Outward Hound life jackets series boasts: <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">High visibility colors, multiple reflective strips, easy-grab handles, quick release buckles, and outstanding flotation.  The unique, multi-handle design is constructed to add strength and durability for pulling dogs out of the water.  The handles are a one piece sewn strap that wraps around the belly and back of the dog adding strength to the handle.</span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 20px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 20px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Features:</span></b></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 20px;">Convenient top grab handles allow easy rescue by hand or boat hook</span></li><li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reflective accents and bright colors for high visibility</span></li><li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fully adjustable chest and neck flaps plus quick release buckles</span></li><li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Durable and comfortable neoprene belly-band</span></li><li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Front float helps keep dog's head above water</span></li><li style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Medium, Large and X-Large life jackets feature dual handles for easy lifting and stability</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Positives: </b>Affordable,<b> </b>Light Weight, Easy to Fit, Comfortable on the dog, Durable on land and water.</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Negatives:</b> Stitching could be stronger in seams.  Frequent lifting of medium and larger sized dogs can put excessive strain on the seams. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These tend to run a little small, so if your dog is on the line between sizes, go with the larger size. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If your dog has a thick or stocky neck, relative to the overall size of his body, go with the Paws Aboard Style life jackets, they are roomier in the neck and shoulders.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.wags-n-whiskers-giftbaskets.com/Dog-Life-Jackets-s/1849.htm#.VBC5m8KwLfU" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">On Sale at Wags and Whiskers Gifts starting at $16.99</a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> use <b>Reader Discount Code</b> for an extra 10% off - enter <b>RP2012</b> at checkout.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Best New Product: Henry & Clemmie's </span></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mz9QNX43siGOuH6Nz49Sh8uNFpREt1u2oWDMUPQIsMuDKQzN4LXH5e4Kla_cnUumRv4WdCoejFhkVauWFY9PymaTTZxgaCJfXl7i53ocrI5bWh-RIyTulzTkwOpIYA4gUNz0tjWBpRzk/s400/HC_LifejacketRed.jpg" height="267" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Henry and Clemmie's PFD for Dogs</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mz9QNX43siGOuH6Nz49Sh8uNFpREt1u2oWDMUPQIsMuDKQzN4LXH5e4Kla_cnUumRv4WdCoejFhkVauWFY9PymaTTZxgaCJfXl7i53ocrI5bWh-RIyTulzTkwOpIYA4gUNz0tjWBpRzk/s1600/HC_LifejacketRed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Henry and Clemmie's are relative new comers in the outdoor dog apparel market.  Their products have nice styling including a sleek logo badge on the shoulder of the product.  Made with heavy nylon over the yoke, these guys are built to last. Look<a href="http://www.wags-n-whiskers-giftbaskets.com/Dog-Life-Jackets-s/1849.htm#.UYlIL6JQJLc" target="_blank"> for sales at specialty stores</a> introducing this new product at rates competitive with those of the Outward Hound Life Jacket. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Features:</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Leash ring for quick and easy hook up</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Handle for easy reach and rescue</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Durable water resistant materials</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Extra bright reflective piping for added safety and visibility</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adjustable buckle and velcro-style fastners for a snug and comfortable fit</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Superior flotation padding for head and torso support</span></li><li style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Available colors: Red, Blue, Pink, Green, Orange</span></li><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Positives:</b> Sturdy nylon in canvas weight material across yoke, Runs true to size, Comfortable</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Negatives:</b> Only the red and green model is a vibrant color for improved visibility.  The blue and pink don't stand out in the water. However, blue does become more vibrant when wet that when dry.  Pink remains subtle.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Best Looking Life Jacket Runner-Up: </span></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Paws Aboard Neoprene Lifeguard Jacket</span></h2><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnv_W7os2fTM0thG2sbzljKIMNsar35rQ7qV2O-19l0xHliqIYuDD8FsGRHQzlM_z0qg2QxriN8aRdsnkap2g9gs0KgIJ_m6yF_BhIXn9ocAmn0gyfR8hGAS01RCaqq0euWfqlmhTd3lE/s1600/Large+Paws+image.jpg" height="218" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Paws Aboard Neoprene Life Vest Come in a Variety of Bright Colors</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnv_W7os2fTM0thG2sbzljKIMNsar35rQ7qV2O-19l0xHliqIYuDD8FsGRHQzlM_z0qg2QxriN8aRdsnkap2g9gs0KgIJ_m6yF_BhIXn9ocAmn0gyfR8hGAS01RCaqq0euWfqlmhTd3lE/s1600/Large+Paws+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the makers of the Paws Aboard Boat Ladder for dogs comes this delightful series of life vests. The Paws Aboard life jacket is sturdy, cute and above all affordable.  Comparably priced with the Outward Hound and Henry and Clemmies models, we love the styles of the life jackets made by Paws Aboard.  This series also includes some day-glow colors including the yellow and blue combination below.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b><b>Features: </b></span><br /><ul class="a-vertical a-spacing-none" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 18px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;"><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two reflective strips for maximum visibility</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bright designer colors for improved visibility </span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sturdy handle on top for quick and easy grabbing and lifting</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adjustable nylon straps and quick-release buckles</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Heavy-duty yet more comfortable velcro fastening system around the belly and neck to keep securely fastened</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Advanced breathable mesh underbelly for proper draining and drying, which provides your dog more comfort and healthier conditions than traditional pet life jackets, which can cause exhaustion and chafing</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="a-list-item" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Available colors: Red, Blue and Yellow, Yellow, Blue Polka Dots, Pink Polka Dots</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4pYzVjxHAY4__sn4SL3Cbm6_UnpJCi1hRjauMZKM3zeo2cpMAKw-QLUo2MatzNL6v-V_daHHDzOKFLMPziyRRiviU81frFx8ojFUh9fp85rJtfWojwm3IllwJEukAtzbCGpgxlXzFutF/s1600/Neoprene+Life+Jacket.jpg" height="236" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Paws Aboard Neoprene Life Jacket in Blue and Yellow</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4pYzVjxHAY4__sn4SL3Cbm6_UnpJCi1hRjauMZKM3zeo2cpMAKw-QLUo2MatzNL6v-V_daHHDzOKFLMPziyRRiviU81frFx8ojFUh9fp85rJtfWojwm3IllwJEukAtzbCGpgxlXzFutF/s1600/Neoprene+Life+Jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://www.wagsandwhiskersgifts.com/">Paws Aboard and Outward Hound Water Safety Products On Sale at Starting at $18.95</a></span><br /><a href="http://www.wags-n-whiskers-giftbaskets.com/Dog-Life-Jackets-s/1849.htm#.U5HEUXKwLfU" target="_blank"><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wags and Whiskers Gifts</span></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Positives:</b> Extremely visibly in water, the neoprene is not as stiff as the nylon life vest. Provides more room in the neck that the Outward Hound Model, for dogs with bulky shoulders and thick necks relative to girth size.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Negatives: </b>In some instances stout dogs such as pugs had difficulty staying upright.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Best Looking Life Jacket: K-9 Float Coat</span></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdAU5gpVjyu0Y4QZdA9lzNVEYeB2fIhJuLQqDdPECuJYkfDn08iyJ-IdNUR62d85ZbO-zWR9KmsZvL9hFiECkNYDjx_dmhJy2iG2oczU68-zqdnS-qRjGXQtBn9675Ion8uR0M2rdJOzt/s400/SS12_K9FloatCoat_RedCurrant_RightSide_V3_Lrg.jpg" height="295" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ruffwear Life Vests Come in Red Current and Dandelion Yellow</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdAU5gpVjyu0Y4QZdA9lzNVEYeB2fIhJuLQqDdPECuJYkfDn08iyJ-IdNUR62d85ZbO-zWR9KmsZvL9hFiECkNYDjx_dmhJy2iG2oczU68-zqdnS-qRjGXQtBn9675Ion8uR0M2rdJOzt/s1600/SS12_K9FloatCoat_RedCurrant_RightSide_V3_Lrg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This jacket provides all of the safety your dog needs in the water in one sleek, high fashion package.  Boasting an innovative flotation core made of several layers of closed-cell foam., <span id="goog_183356467"></span>the K-9 Float Coat<span id="goog_183356468"></span>, made by RUFFWEAR, packs a hefty price tag as well.  It runs nearly twice the price of the Outward Hound and Henry and Clemmie's models, but who cares when it comes to your canine diva.  The K-9 Float Coat comes in 2 colors, Red Currant pictured here and a vibrant Dandelion Yellow.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Features:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;">Flotation is achieved via several layers of closed-cell foam - instead of one thick one. This allows a sculpted shape that enhances comfort, won't impede movement, and supports  horizontal canine swimming.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;">The belly panel foam boosts underside flotation. For optimal safety and fit, the fully-connected, telescoping collar ensures the jacket stays in place even after long sessions of dock jumping or frolicking in the surf. </span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;">Buckles are protected and straps have tail keepers: everything is streamlined so there's less to dangle or snag.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Positives:</b> Comfortable, great for Dock Diving, No loose straps to snag in the environment.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Negatives:</b> Hefty price tag for the occasional swimming outing, good value for swimming hole regulars and dock diving competitors.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Highest In Customer Satisfaction - <i>EZY</i>DOG</span></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTbi4XjiZ7iwjOyUeBaxsuyDGBfm4EHdlyrwESOXINdCX18gXPooCKmEOQjPiPR9MAB3vtCCctA5saK46TwBjC5zkhJX8HpuTfoqGQcqUn9NCmsJcashTz3n4cdRY5ksvMg9TvOFBBr91/s400/Standard_Float_Vest_Yellow__93357.1306961102.1280.1280.jpg" height="266" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">EZYDog Life vest come in Red, Yellow and Flame Pattern</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTbi4XjiZ7iwjOyUeBaxsuyDGBfm4EHdlyrwESOXINdCX18gXPooCKmEOQjPiPR9MAB3vtCCctA5saK46TwBjC5zkhJX8HpuTfoqGQcqUn9NCmsJcashTz3n4cdRY5ksvMg9TvOFBBr91/s1600/Standard_Float_Vest_Yellow__93357.1306961102.1280.1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Considered the Cadillac of canine outdoor equipment products,<i> EZY</i> DOG<a href="http://store.ezydog.com/doggy-floatation-vest/"> </a>is the leader in agility harnesses and has a loyal following among it's customer base.  Customer product reviews consistently give this life vest 5 star ratings, and its price is not too bad either at 50% more than the best value life vests. These life jackets come in 4 colors: Yellow, Red, Camo Green and Camo Pink.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Features:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">50% more flotation material</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adjustable neoprene straps form an ergonomic, secure fit</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reflective detailing provides better nighttime safety</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Durable construction keeps up with your dog</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ergonomic grab handle makes it easy to handle your dog</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Positives:</b> Sturdy, Well Made, Attractive Design</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Negatives:</b> Does not come in an XXSmall Size</span></div><br /><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B004ZQGM4S&asins=B004ZQGM4S&linkId=4NCLCVCQ7RVXDUVF&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bungonews-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00LGSNXS6&asins=B00LGSNXS6&linkId=HJVFMHQG2YTZOHQT&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://themodernbark.blogspot.com/2014/07/5-best-dog-backpacks-reviewed.html" target="_blank">If you love being outdoors with your dog, checkout these Backpacks for hiking.</a></h3><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fFf6eje57-jxxjI9c64ZlLVyzfNUuKsoa-Q-MUyavoCg8jtTMQjr3Rs-cFJVEaMwmF3ZLmM-k0yPQrnZ7AQ1lkacYtA06RcsZo0j0xczPTkG-wYt4sKcGq1rfvD0G79a5c07xNC2xnAU/s1600/-backpack-green-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fFf6eje57-jxxjI9c64ZlLVyzfNUuKsoa-Q-MUyavoCg8jtTMQjr3Rs-cFJVEaMwmF3ZLmM-k0yPQrnZ7AQ1lkacYtA06RcsZo0j0xczPTkG-wYt4sKcGq1rfvD0G79a5c07xNC2xnAU/s1600/-backpack-green-1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://themodernbark.blogspot.com/2014/07/5-best-dog-backpacks-reviewed.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Best Backpacks Reviewed</span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/W-cHU0qmKj8/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/W-cHU0qmKj8&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/W-cHU0qmKj8&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Video: The Outward Hound Life Jacket Fitting and Use. </b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/b91ZVCJIS78/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/b91ZVCJIS78&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/b91ZVCJIS78&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><b><br /></b><b>The Ruffwear Float Coat Fitting and Review</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><