We tried this recipe and liked it for it's 1)simple to make 2) tasty for the dogs

This is for you CODY!

Thanks www.Dogtreatkitchen.com

Parsley Pucker-Up's
Homemade Dog Treats

These homemade dog treats with parsley are perfect if your dog offers you kisses accompanied with bad dog breath. Keep them around for in between brushing and visits to the dog dentist.

We prefer flat leaf or Italian parsley for this dog cookie recipe. The flat leaf has a stronger and sweeter flavor than the curly leaf parsley, so is more effective at freshening your dog's kisses.

Parsley is also great for dog treat recipes because it can aid digestion and is high in Vitamin A & C.

Parsley Pucker-Ups

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup wheat bran
• 1/8 cup dried parsley flakes
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup applesauce, unsweetened

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven to 375° F
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, wheat bran, and parsley.
3. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg.
4. Stir the water and applesauce into the beaten egg.
5. Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the egg mixture.
6. Stir until combined.
7. Lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
8. Using a 1 inch cookie scooper, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 20 minutes.
10. Turn off the oven and let the cookies cool in the oven for 2 hours.

Storing - These parsley pucker-ups will stay fresh in the refrigerator for approximately 3 weeks. It will keep in the freezer for at least 4 months.

Yield - Using a 1 inch cookie scooper you will yield 24 homemade dog treats.

Tips & Techniques

• Wheat Bran - You can also use wheat germ in place of the wheat bran. If your dog is sensitive to wheat, replace with ground flax seeds.
  
  
• Sticky Dough - The dough is very sticky. Lightly wet your hands while working with the dough to prevent it from sticking.
  
  
• Customize the Look & Texture - You can leave this cookie in a ball or you can dip the bottom of a drinking glass in water and flatten each ball to form a cookie shape. Another way to customize the look is to sprinkle dried parsley on the top of each cookie before it is baked. If your dog prefers a softer cookie, take them out to cool after the 20 minutes. They will have a slightly soft center.
  
  
• Fresh or Dried - If you prefer to use fresh parsley, you can. Substitute fresh for dry on a 3 to 1 ratio. For example, this recipe would use 6 tablespoons of fresh parsley instead of the 2 tablespoons of dried. If using fresh herbs, you would stir the minced parsley into the applesauce mixture before combining with the dry ingredients.

Whether your dog wants to admit it or not, he may need one of these homemade dog treats to freshen his breath. So, don't make him ask, instead bake a batch and welcome those sweet dog kisses of appreciation.

Parsley Pucker-Up's
Homemade Dog Treats

These homemade dog treats with parsley are perfect if your dog offers you kisses accompanied with bad dog breath. Keep them around for in between brushing and visits to the dog dentist.

We prefer flat leaf or Italian parsley for this dog cookie recipe. The flat leaf has a stronger and sweeter flavor than the curly leaf parsley, so is more effective at freshening your dog's kisses.

Parsley is also great for dog treat recipes because it can aid digestion and is high in Vitamin A & C.

Parsley Pucker-Ups

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup wheat bran
• 1/8 cup dried parsley flakes
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup applesauce, unsweetened

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven to 375° F
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, wheat bran, and parsley.
3. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg.
4. Stir the water and applesauce into the beaten egg.
5. Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the egg mixture.
6. Stir until combined.
7. Lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
8. Using a 1 inch cookie scooper, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 20 minutes.
10. Turn off the oven and let the cookies cool in the oven for 2 hours.

Storing - These parsley pucker-ups will stay fresh in the refrigerator for approximately 3 weeks. It will keep in the freezer for at least 4 months.

Yield - Using a 1 inch cookie scooper you will yield 24 homemade dog treats.

Tips & Techniques

• Wheat Bran - You can also use wheat germ in place of the wheat bran. If your dog is sensitive to wheat, replace with ground flax seeds.
  
  
• Sticky Dough - The dough is very sticky. Lightly wet your hands while working with the dough to prevent it from sticking.
  
  
• Customize the Look & Texture - You can leave this cookie in a ball or you can dip the bottom of a drinking glass in water and flatten each ball to form a cookie shape. Another way to customize the look is to sprinkle dried parsley on the top of each cookie before it is baked. If your dog prefers a softer cookie, take them out to cool after the 20 minutes. They will have a slightly soft center.
  
  
• Fresh or Dried - If you prefer to use fresh parsley, you can. Substitute fresh for dry on a 3 to 1 ratio. For example, this recipe would use 6 tablespoons of fresh parsley instead of the 2 tablespoons of dried. If using fresh herbs, you would stir the minced parsley into the applesauce mixture before combining with the dry ingredients.

Whether your dog wants to admit it or not, he may need one of these homemade dog treats to freshen his breath. So, don't make him ask, instead bake a batch and welcome those sweet dog kisses of appreciation.

http://www.petside.com/video/how-brush-your-dogs-teeth

It be in this situation really stinks BUT (you heard this coming right) it’s a learning point.  I can see the eye roll and I truly understand it – the dog isn’t doing what I need him/her to do and I’ve tried everything.  I 100% agree!  It’s time to stepback and revaluate this situation. 

 

Keep an Open Mind

Dogs have personalities and learning styles just like humans.  What “language” are you and your dog speaking?  It’s it that you say “sit” and your pet hears – “cool, I’ve got Dad’s attention and on one else is here  wwwwhhhoooo play time”.  If so this could be a chunk of the problem. 

Are you asking the dog to perform a task that’s above their ability?  We worked on sit and come last night and did great tonight no luck!  This may mean that they need practice-it’ s like roller skating it needs practice. 

Evaluate you-honestly.  This is the hard part and where frustration really shows.  What signals are you sending?  Dogs are great at reading body language – this is their main form of communication within their dog world.  How are you feeling about this training session?  How do you feel about the dog (honestly)?  This honest answer is the body language your pet is seeing and potentially responding to.  Think of it this way- your walking down the street and see the one person in the world that makes you heart flutter and eyes glow the result is your body language changes to engage this person is conversation.  Look  at it the other way your walking down the street and you pass the one person in the world that you can’t stand your body tenses I n response your pulse changes and your posture shifts.  Dogs  get sence that your mind is somewhere else not on the “sit” command you just gave-result is no sit. 

Time and Place Are you practicing at the wrong times?  Your pet needs to work out their greeting and energy before you begin work.  Both of you need a warm-up time.  Signals that put you and your pet into work mode.  Are you both in the frame of mind to practice?  Do you need to walk first (ie burn energy) do you need a snack for energy and attention?  Do you need to change your location?  Once the dog is trained and a pro at items your practicing these items won’t matter as much- right now they do.

Rewards Are you providing the right reward to motivate the pet?  Food may not always be the answer ( see last week).

Praise Are you using it where it gets the biggest impact? How’s the tone of your voice? Are the associate touches praise?

One theme here is you and your messages from command to frame of mind.  I hear this response all the time –“but the dog has the job to do”  and there is the AH HA moment!  Your asking for the job to be done you’re the supervisor you have a job too.

 

I could not say this information better...

http://www.simplesteps.org/health/pet/greenpaws-disclaimer

 

http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/controlling_flea_ticks_pets.html

 Heat Stroke or HyperthermiaAccording to WIKI Hyperthermia occurs when the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. Why do dogs overheat faster than people?1.People sweat to cool ourselves dogs do not have this ability.  They must pant or exchange heat via the pads of their feet.  Therefore it is a matter of simple surface area that helps us understand that dogs can be at a greater risk for over heating than humans.  2.People have a baseline temperature of 98.6F while dogs have a baseline temperature of  102F.  at 104F dogs can start getting into heat realated issues.Signs of Heat Stroke·            Increased rectal temperature (over 104° requires action, over 106° is a dire emergency) ·            Vigorous panting ·            Dark red gums ·            Tacky or dry mucus membranes (specifically the gums) ·            Lying down and unwilling (or unable) to get up ·            Collapse and/or loss of consciousness ·            Thick saliva ·            Dizziness or disorientation To prevent Heat Stroke·         Groom dead hair from the dogs skin and coat to keep their insulation system working·         Belly shave – this will help the dog be in closer contact with a cool surface.  (this works because the femoral arteries are in the groin area and if in contact with cool temperatures can help cool the body.·         Provide cool water·         Provide shade and cooler temperatures·         Prevent exertion in high temperaturesWhat to do if you suspect Heat Stroke·         Move the dog to a cooler area·         Use cool NOT COLD rags or water to lower body temperature (COLD/icey water can cause the blood vessels to contract rapidly and hold the heat in the core of the body)·         Cool rags or water to the pads of feet, neck area and belly groin area.·         If the dog is able to drink provide cool water or infant electrolyte replacement to drink·         Call your vet. 

What type of grooming does my dog need and WHY?

Often folks will come into the salon and ask my dog is sheding alot! and then request a bath and brush.  A deshed then a bath and brush on a regular schedule is the maintance that will keep the fur ball off of the kitchen floor.

To understand what type and indirectly what price range your dogs grooming will be understanding coat types are important. 

The Nash School of Groooming Breaks the coat types down this way:

Short Coat:

this type of coat is

described as having no evidence of

undercoat at all. The short coat type

is determined, which means that it

grows to a specific length and sheds

in a block or band pattern.

Breed Example:

Boxer

Smooth Coat:
this coat type has a smooth appearance with

the top coat being longer than the

undercoat and laying flat, following

the contour of the dog's body. The

smooth coat type has determined

hair growth and sheds in a block

or band pattern.

Breed Example:

Bloodhound

Medium Coat:

The length of the hair on the top

of the tail is typically the same as the

jacket, and the length of the hair underneath

the tail is typically the

same as the hair on the trousers,

without giving a feathered or fringed

appearance. As the name suggests,

this coat has a smooth appearance,

and demonstrates determined hair

growth that naturally grows to a specific

length and stops, and sheds in

a block or band pattern.

Breed Example:

German Shepherd Dog

Nordic Coat:

The Nordic coat type has an open

structure, meaning that the top coat

stands out because there is so much

undercoat. This heavy undercoat

lifts the topcoat, showing the coat

growth pattern, but very little coat

growth direction.

Breed Example:

Norwegian Elkhound

For the full artical please see the link below

http://www.groomertogroomer.com/janfeb09/pdf/GTG%20JanFeb09.pdf

	Boarding Check List- Things to Ask
Facilty 1	Facilty 2	Mariah-Belle Pet Care
		♥	Outside time is in a grassy play area
		♥	Bring your own food
		♥	Elimination is not in the dogs run
		♥	Staffing consistency same people daily
		♥	Your dog has a name not a number
		♥	Pills are given at no charge
		♥	Vet Deck and formed beds protect guest from concrete
		♥	Kennel size and number of dogs in that area
		♥	Food and treats dye free and natural/organic
		♥	Non toxic/green cleaning - paw burns
		♥	Bring a couple of pieces of dirty laundry from home
		♥	Eating-Activity-Mood-Output monitored 3x per day
		♥	Playtime with people interaction
		♥	Exercise activities walks, hikes, water play
		♥	What is the proceedure if a dog is ill or injured
		♥	Departure grooming
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/choosing_boarding_kennel.html

Summer Beach TipsWhooo Hoooo it’s Summer and I hear the rolling waves calling me and my fuzzy kid.

General Travel Health

Vaccinations: Be sure all of your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.  Just like people, when dogs leave their home base area they will be exposed to new germs and can challenge their body’s immune system.  Up to date vaccinations help limit the chance of bringing home unwanted diseases and protects you legally if the unthinkable bite or accident would occur. 
·         Vaccinations to consider: Canine Cough or Bordatella (upper respiratory infection), Leptospirosis (kidney and liver infections), Lyme disease, Canine Influenza.  

Pests: Fleas and ticks, and the mosquitoes which carry heartworm disease, are more prevalent in warmer months. Consider preventive to keep these parasites off your dog.

Food and Water: Packing your dogs regular food, treats, and bottled water will help prevent stomach upset and lots of messy stools ( no one wants that on vacation).  The chemicals in treated water change from area to area and may result in both human and canine intestinal distress.

Poisons: Perfect lawns and flowers are a treat for the eye. Areas chemically treated or fertilized are major toxic zones.  As people we wear shoes and wash hands; dogs walk through the area and lick paws.  This can result in paw and mouth burns as well as poisoning.   

Beach Tips (Courtesy of the AKC)

• Dogs can get sunburn, especially short-haired dogs and ones with pink skin and white hair. Limit your dog's exposure when the sun is unusually strong, and apply sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.
• Provide plenty of fresh water and shade for your dog.
• Check with a lifeguard for daily water conditions – dogs are easy targets for jellyfish and sea lice.
• If your dog is out of shape, don't encourage him to run on the sand. Running on a beach is strenuous exercise, and a dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament.
• Cool ocean water is tempting to your dog. Do not allow him to drink too much seawater. The salt in the water will make him sick.
• Salt and other minerals found in the ocean can damage your dog's coat. So, when you are ready to leave for the day, rinse him off with fresh water.
• Not all beaches permit dogs. Check local ordinances before you begin your excursion to the beach.

Does Your Doggy Paddle?The majority of dogs can swim and they love it. But dogs entering the water for the first time should be tested. Here are some important tips for teaching your dog how to swim:

• Never throw your dog into the water.
• Start in shallow water, and call your dog's name. You can also try to coax him in with a treat or toy – but always keep your dog within reach.
• Another way to introduce your dog to the water is with a dog that already swims and is friendly with your dog. Let your dog follow his friend.
• If your dog begins to doggy-paddle with his front legs only, lift his hind legs and help him float. He should quickly catch on and will then keep his back end up.
• Swimming is a great form of exercise, but don't let your dog overdo it. He will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.
• Be careful of strong tides that are hazardous for even the best swimmers.
• Never leave your dog unattended! You should always be in a position to help him get out of the water.

    

 

Seasonally shedding dogs “blow their coat” or shed about 80% or more of their coat to make room for a new coat.  This process allows shedding breeds to maintain the short hair breed characteristic.  In other words…if a Labradors or Akita did not lose the hair growth from one year and grow a new coat their hair would become long and require haircuts. 

When a dog sheds not only do they release the hairs from their coat they also release the dander, pollen, dirt, and other environmental factors picked up in the coat.  You may notice that your pet’s coat will start to look dull or dusty this indicates that a major shedding event is nearing.  The hair follicles slightly change shape and the skin and cuticle may begin to loosen in preparation for shedding the hair. 

 

Dander is composed of dead skin cells, associated with dirt, body oils and other environmental components, all of which can be allergenic for humans.  Dry flaky dogs itch and itching brings the dander to the surface of the coat.  Petting, moving or shaking tosses the dander onto your floors and couches.  What’s the result – mites come along and live off of this rich food source and a doggy smell.

 

Everyone knows the smell of wet dog….Wet dog smell is the smell of a dirty layered hair dog (Doggy Mulch).  Here’s why.  Dogs produce oils to coat their guard hairs (different breeds, different types and amounts). Dead skin cells stick to this as will dirt and dust.  When the hair loosens the hair, attached oil and stuff lands on you floor but the dead skin stays behind as dander.  If the dog is not able to shed the downy undercoat easily there will be tuffs of hair often a lighter color protruding through the smooth coat.  This soft downy hair mixed with dander and oils is attractive for flees, fly eggs, and mites. 

 

YUCK what to do

 

3 options

1)      Regularly (every 4- 8 weeks)scheduled bath and brush will remove dander and shedding hair, clean the excess oils from the coat and remove environmental dirt and smells.  The result is a clean huggable dog

2)      De shedding treatments- a multi-step process to remove undercoat and shedding guard coat.  Performed with specially designed shampoos, high velocity air, and blade tool.  If performed often and incorrectly skin irritation and coat damage can occur. 

3)      Regularly shaving the dog( every 6-10 weeks).  Reduces the amount of hair on the body and produces smaller amount of shedding.  The Trade off is the dog looses UV protection and insulation.  It is possible that will not grow back the same

 

The key to all of the options is a bath – not just get wet and soap.  One bath for the outer hairs and one for the skin to remove dander; followed by a conditioner to moisturize the skin and hair. 

The ingredient quality and pH of the shampoo allows the dog to be bathed more often without stripping the coat of oils.

Think about it this way.  Your loved one says to you.  I’d love to curl-up with you for TV tonight and help eat your popcorn…but I’ve not had a bath in 6 months or changed my underwear- my nails are so long they may scratch you when I want popcorn, I’d love to thank you for your warm lap with a kiss on the cheek but my breath- I don’t brush my teeth.  I bet your response would NOT be come on over it’s almost TV time.

Links for more info

http://education.vetmed.vt.edu/Curriculum/VM8054/Labs/Lab15/Lab15.htm

http://www.thedogplace.org/CanineHealth/Grooming1-10052-Lanting.asp

Thanks for listening as I helped DJ the WTTR Morning Radio show.  The coupons are on the Daycare and About Us pages.

I you have question for the Thursday Morning Tip of the Day Please email me at info@mariahbellemanor.com

See you soon,
Rachann