Category: Dogs | New Pets
Crate Training

CRATE TRAINING

Due to the highly social attitude of dogs, their need to bond is great.  With the busy daily routines of most families though, dogs can develop problems with their need to chew, play and explore while their human family is away.  Preventing, or eliminating such unwanted, and often destructive behaviour is necessary.  This can be done relatively easily and effectively with crate training. It is certainly not unfair or cruel, and in fact, is often calming for the pet, as it allows them a safe and secure area when humans are not around to observe.  To your pet, it is similar to a natural den in the wild.

To properly crate train a pet, the crate must be large enough so that the pet can turn around easily but should not be much larger. A safe treat or toy can be placed in it as well to provide a comfortable environment. The crate is meant to be seen as a safe haven, not a punishment, and can be used when you are home as well as when you are absent. Crate training will also helpful with house training since most dogs will try not to soil the area where they sleep in.  Try to place the crate in an area of a room where the dog would naturally go to relax.  Creating a positive environment is the key to effective crate training.

The key to crate training is to introduce the crate to the pet as soon as it is brought home, and allow the dog free access to the crate at any time.  Allow the pet to play and to eliminate outside before putting it in the crate, then leave the room. Expect some vocalization when first put in the crate, however do not release the puppy until it is quiet. This will help to reinforce to the pup that quiet behaviour is good and will be rewarded. Repeat the crating and release procedures throughout the day so that the pup will become accustomed to the crate.

For an older pet, the key is to place the crate in an area where the dog usually frequents to eat – place the food and water in the crate with the door open so that the dog must go in to eat. Reward the pet with a favourite treat or chew toy. Once the pet is in the crate, reward for “sit” and “stay”, with the door still open. Gradually increase the time of the “stay”, then begin to close the dog in the crate through the evening.

If your pet is having problems with fear of thunderstorms, please discuss the best approach with your veterinarian prior to attempting any of the above suggestions.Drug therapy may be a useful adjunct in treating these problems – please contact the clinic to discuss what may work best.

Health

Nutrition

Nutrition

Nutrition is an important part of keeping your pet happy and healthy. Every pet has different requirements for activity, growth and play.

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Vaccinations

Vaccinations

Learn more about the types, importance, and timing of vaccinations for cats & dogs

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Internal Parasites

Internal Parasites

Heartworm, roundworm, and tapeworm are serious and sometimes life-threatening parasites. Learn more about them, their prevention and treatment.

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Seizures

Seizures

What is Epilepsy? What Causes Seizures? How Are Seizures Diagnosed? What Can I Do At Home?

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External Parasites

External Parasites

Fleas, ticks and ear mites are far more serious than just uncomfortable annoyances. Learn more about them here.

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Celebrating Seniors

Celebrating Seniors

Pets as young as 7 may be at an increased risk of developing age-related problems such as arthritis, diabetes, liver and kidney disease.

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Ticks and Warm Weather

Ticks and Warm Weather

Did you know that ticks carry diseases that affect both pets and people? What can we do to protect our pets and your family?

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Behaviour

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms

Unfortunately, many dogs are fearful of thunderstorms. Learn more about what you can do to help.

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Barking

Barking

Barking is a natural habit of dogs in times of play and warning. However, excessive noise can certainly be problematic. What can be done?

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Chewing

Chewing

Chewing and mouthing a a natural part of a dog’s learning and socialization, but destructive chewing can be concerning and should not be ignored.

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Biting

Biting

What’s normal and healthy regarding biting? Where and how should we draw the line?

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Digging

Digging

Digging is common normal behaviour in dogs that can progress into a destructive habit.

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House Soiling

House Soiling

Inappropriate elimination is a common and often frustrating problem for owners of both cats and dogs. Why do they do this? How can we help?

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Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety

Due to the extreme social and structure pack nature of a dog, their ability to form very strong bonds with family members can sometimes lead to separation anxiety.

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New Pets

Diet

Diet

Obesity is a serious, although often overlooked, problem with our indoor companions. A good diet helps maintain a healthy body weight and happy pet.

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Obedience

Obedience

Puppies start learning as soon as they are born. Obedience training is the core to developing a sound and healthy bond between you and your pet.

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Reproduction

Caesarian Section

Caesarian Section

Planned, surgical whelping may be an option when the health of a canine mother or litter is at risk.

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