Solutions To Stop Your Dog from Whining 

There are a number of reasons your dog could be whining at night, however they all have one thing in common, they result in you having a broken night's sleep. To help you deal with this behaviour problem and sleep through the night, we've listed 10 solutions below that could bring peace to your house after the lights go out.

1. Work out Why Your Dog is Whining

If you can work out what lies behind your dog's whining you stand a better chance of choosing the right approach and being successful in stopping the problem. The three most common causes of dog whining is anxiety, discomfort or attention seeking, so watch your dog closely to see what clues they give you. Notice how you react when they start whining and how they react to you, as it should give you all the information you need to decide on your approach to the problem and start taking action.

2. Make Basic Checks Before You go to Bed

We sometimes overlook the most obvious reasons, so make sure your dog isn't whining because they are hungry, thirst or need to urinate at night. Get into the habit of always letting your dog out last thing at night, as beyond the puppy stage they should be able to go through the night. If they need to urinate frequently, check with your vet as they could have a urine infection. If you do need to let them out at night, do it with as little attention paid to your dog as possible, as if you play with them or pet them they could start to wake you up at night for the attention.

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•     Why Do Dogs Howl?
•     5 Reasons Why Dogs Eat Their Poop
•     Why Do Dogs Shake?

3. Check That Your Dog Isn't Cold

Some dogs start whining at night because they are cold, so if they sleep in a kennel outside, make sure it is out of the wind and that you provide lots of warm bedding and if they sleep in the house, check that their bed is not in a draught. Some dog owners use bean bags that can be warmed up to keep their dog warm, cosy and asleep all night and I have heard of others who even use heated blankets. However, if you are going to use this method, always make sure your dog does not get too hot and that they are unable to chew any wires attached to the blanket.

4. Deal with Dog Separation Anxiety Issues

A lot of dog whining is driven by separation anxiety in dogs, so if your dog sleeps separately from you and starts being vocal the moment you leave them alone, anxiety could well be the reason. Another clue that this might be the cause is that they respond in this way whenever you leave them, day or night. You will need to use desensitization training to help get rid of separation anxiety and a lot of patience, as they can take a while to respond positively. Another way to help with this problem is to learn how to show your dog that you are the decision maker or pack leader, which can be very reassuring for an anxious dog.

5. Make Sure Your Dog is Tired

If your dog gets restless at night, struggles to settle down and then starts whining at you, try exercising them an hour before bedtime to use up some of their excess energy. Many dogs will instantly flop down on their bed to sleep after a long walk, but if walking after dark doesn't appeal to you, try an energetic game of tag or fetch in the garden or house.

6. Soothe Your Dog with Sounds

A ticking clock placed in the dog's bedding can help keep a dog calm as the ticking mimics the regular heartbeat of another dog. This can be very useful with dogs that don't like to be left alone and especially with puppies that could be missing their Mum or brothers and sisters. Just beware that your dog cannot reach the clock and use it as a chew toy.

7. Soothe Your Dog with Smells

If you think your dog is whining at night because they wake up and want you, put something that smells of you in with their bedding, like an old jumper or T-Shirt. This may provide just enough comfort to keep your dog sleeping until morning.

8. Make Sure Your Dog is Pain Free

Pain or discomfort of some kind could be causing your dog to wake and start whining, for instance a dog may not notice joint pain until they lie down at night. If you think that could be the case with your dog, have them checked over by your vet as soon as possible.

9. Get Your Dog a Crate

A crate can feel like a den to a dog, so if you think your dog is feeling a bit insecure left alone downstairs at night, a crate could give them the extra security they need. When you introduce them to a crate, make it a nice place to be with bedding and toys and treats. Gradually build up the time they spend in their crate during the day until you feel like they will be all right to be left overnight.

10. Ignore Your Dog's Noise

If your dog's nighttime noise is all about getting your attention, the fastest way to stop it is to ignore it completely. That means not responding in any way to their whining, don't speak to them, touch them, or even catch their eye. It's not always the easiest way to break this pattern of behaviour, as you can feel really guilty for a few days, but if your dog is healty, has been fed, watered, exercised and let out to toilet before bedtime, you know they are fine, so invest in a pair of ear plugs and stick with it. It shouldn't be too long before they work out that their whining is not getting them the attention they were looking for and they should stop.

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  Dog Behavior : Why Do Dogs Shake?

Do you want to know the secret for getting your dog to stop shaking? Keep reading to discover the top 4 common reasons and what you can do for your dog by gaining an understanding of your dog's behavior.

Let's start by clarifying the term 'Shake', and what I'm referring to when I use it. I'm referring to dogs that shiver or tremble while in control of their bodies. If your dog is making eye contact and responding to you, as he is shaking, then your dog has full control of his body; unlike dogs who lose control during a seizure.

So, why do dogs shake?

Your dog could be shaking for common reasons that are easy to remedy or your dog's shaking could indicate that something is medically wrong. I'll discuss those potential medical issues later in this segment. Knowing why your dog is shaking allows you to make an informed decision about his well being with a little more confidence. Now, here are the top four common reasons dogs shake, and what you can do for your dog to help and comfort him during those trying times.

One - Your Dog is Cold

Not unusual, especially for short coat breeds. When a dog is cold, his body shakes to generate heat through muscle movement. It is easy to provide your dog with a little warmth to stop his shaking. Get your dog into a warm environment and/or provide him with a warm bed and blanket.

Two - Your Dog is Anxious or Frightened

Adrenaline release often produces shaking. Dog's adrenal glands release adrenaline to help them deal with the situation. Thunderstorms, fireworks, air travel, car rides, vet visits, grooming parlors, meeting strangers, loud noises; any type of environmental change can cause a dog anxiety or fear. Hold your dog close and reassure him, with love and attention, that there is nothing to fear. He'll feel safe and loved and before long his shaking will cease.

Three - Your Dog is Excited

Your dog is excited about dinner, chasing a squirrel, seeing you after a long day alone, eager to play; for whatever reason, your dog is shaking in anticipation of something happening. Nothing to be concerned about here; your dog will stop shaking when the excitement is over.

Four - Learned Behavior

Your dog has learned that, if he shakes, he will get a desired response from you, whether that response is a sign of affection and attention or a yummy treat. To stop this dog behavior, ignore the shaking, and instead, reward your dog with affection and attention when he is not shaking. Spread your attention, affection, and treats, throughout the day and evening, so your dog will learn he doesn't have to shake to get what he wants.

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• Why My Dog Licks Me 
• What You Need To Know About Canine Deafness
• What Is A Dog Training Collar? 

Now it is time to talk about other reasons why dogs shake.

If your dog is shaking uncontrollably, determine when the shaking initially occurred, any symptoms the dog has, and what parts of the body are affected. All of these are clues to help you recognize a potentially serious health problem. For example, some dogs will shake if their blood sugar is dangerously low or immediately prior to having a seizure. In this segment, some of the reasons why dogs shake are alarming, but will help you determine the difference between healthy dog behavior and signs of a serious illness, and what to do if you suspect a medical condition.

One - Poisoning

A dog that has ingested chocolate, poisonous plants, cigarettes, insecticides, contaminated food, and other harmful materials in high doses may suffer vomiting, diarrhea, and uncontrollable shaking. If you suspect poisoning, get your dog to an emergency hospital immediately.

Two - Distemper

Distemper is a virus that is often seen in puppies before they reach adulthood and dogs that have not been vaccinated. Symptoms are fever, coughing, and nasal discharge; and can also cause shaking and seizures. Puppies that have not been fully vaccinated are at a greater risk of getting the virus. See your vet immediately if you notice symptoms or suspect your dog has been exposed to distemper.

Three - Kidney Disease

Dogs can be symptom free for a very long time. If your dog suddenly starts drinking and urinating more frequently, there is cause for concern. Other signs, including shaking, might follow as your dog's condition progresses. See your vet immediately for therapy and treatment options.

Four - Addison's Disease

Dogs with this disease will show signs of gastrointestinal problems, loss of energy and strength, and little or no appetite; along with shaking. Addison's is often misdiagnosed, which can lead to more severe problems. If your dog seems chronically ill and undernourished, talk to your vet about possible causes.

Five - White Dog Shaker Syndrome

It is a serious illness in small breeds, such as Maltese and West Highland White Terriers that may cause your dog to shake and causes full body tremors in young dogs. Anxiety related dog behaviors are ruled out, as this Syndrome is not a reaction to specific stressors. If you suspect your dog is shaking as a result of this syndrome, consult with your vet immediately.

Six - Fever

If your dog appears to be shaking from the cold while in a warm environment, then your dog might have a fever. Your dog is shaking in an attempt to raise his body temperature. Take your dog's temperature with a rectal thermometer, if possible. If his temperature is above 104 degrees then take your dog to the vet immediately. A temperature above 104 degrees is a medical emergency.

Seven - Pain

Shaking can be a sign of pain. Signs that your dog is in pain are restlessness, changes in behavior, enlarged pupils, over sleeping, hiding, limping, excessive licking or biting, increased vocalization, in need of attention, poor coat, vacant stare, glazed expression, and decreased appetite. Signs of pain are hard to detect in dogs and vary based on the cause of the pain. Because most dogs are very good at hiding pain, your dog is usually in considerable pain by the time you notice a problem. If your dog is shaking and displaying any of the signs discussed, get your dog to a vet.

Eight - Advanced Age

Unfortunately, aged dogs are more vulnerable to shaking and deterioration. Weakened muscles paired with a touch of arthritis make it painful for elder dogs to stand and walk. These symptoms can't be reversed, but you can consult with your vet to discuss available therapies and treatment that will help reduce your dog's discomfort and pain.

Now let's recap.

Dogs shake for many reasons. Recognizing why your dog is shaking is important, especially if there is a health problem. The earlier an illness or disease is diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated.

When dogs are fearful, anxious or excited, their adrenal glands release adrenaline to prepare their bodies to escape from or deal with the situation causing the excitement. If your dog continues to shake in a warm environment, he may have a fever, or another health problem unrelated to the cold. If you are not 100 percent certain, have your dog medically cleared by your vet before assuming the shaking is normal dog behavior.

If your dog shakes and it is not apparent why, then take him to a vet. If your dog's shaking is not constant, then it is a behavioral problem. Are you dealing with normal dog behavior, medical problems, or behavioral problems? If your dog is displaying normal dog behavior, then follow my four tips to help and comfort him. If you are dealing with behavior problems, then work with a professional trainer that offers positive, reward based training. If you suspect you are dealing with a medical problem, consult your vet immediately.

Hope you enjoyed this segment on Dog Behavior, specifically on the topic of why dogs shake, and hope you walked away with something of value. If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to my channel on YouTube, Dog Behavior Videos. Thank you so much for reading. I look forward to seeing you inside my next article. Please like, share, comment, and subscribe. Until next time. Bye Bye.

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How to Find Pet Insurance for Your New Kitten 

Acquiring a new kitten necessitates some planning: getting food and water bowls, deciding on a spot for the litter box and their bed, and selecting a variety of toys. Ill health isn't something you think about when you have a kitten, but it trains you to be prepared for the unexpected. As a result, buying pet insurance should be at the top of your list of things to do before the kitten arrives.

Why should you insure your cat?

Cats, on average, are less prone to health problems than dogs, and those that live indoors are even less prone. But there is always the possibility of the unexpected, and disease or injury can strike any animal, no matter how safe its surroundings are.

The level of veterinary care in the United States is among the greatest in the world, but it is not cheap. This means that a trip to the vet can be pricey, and unless you have a fund set up for this purpose, it might cause serious problems. Vets have heard of cat owners having to forego treatment or go into debt to pay a bill.

What exactly does it cover?

Pet insurance, like many other types of insurance, comes in a variety of policies with varying levels of coverage and benefits. What is covered and, of course, the price can differ from one state to the next. Aside from California, no statewide rules are governing this type of policy, so reading the fine language is critical.

The basic coverage includes components like illness and accident, but it does not include annual reviews or check-ups, as well as immunization costs. Some insurance may include coverage if the cat goes missing or causes harm to a third party, as well as money to help advertise for them if they escape. However, most policies allow you to pay for as much or as little as you need.

You can also choose between other levels of coverage, such as 80 percent, 90 percent, or 100 percent of the bill. So, if the bill is $1000, and you choose the first level, the insurance company will reimburse you $800 or $900 on the second level. The higher the premium the insurance company will charge you, the more money you will be repaid.

other options

If you dislike the idea of pet insurance, you can always self-insure. This entails opening a bank account for the purpose, depositing a fixed sum into the account each month, and not touching it for anything other than emergencies or diseases. Don't spend it for routine check-ups or to buy things for the kitten; instead, save it and hope you don't need it until there's plenty of money in the account!

Whatever choice you select for your kitten, you must begin the plan as soon as the kitten comes. While that adorable little face will bring you love and affection, it may also bring you a hefty vet cost, so be prepared.

9 Best Apps For Every Pet Parent  

Do you carry your smartphone with you everywhere? If you answered yes, you should look into these applications for individuals who live with and adore dogs and cats. The apps listed below are all free to download and are accessible for both iPhone and Android users. At the bottom of each entry is a link to the Android version on Google Play.

PETRESCUERS BY HOMEAGAIN

With this app, you may connect with tens of thousands of PetRescuers and participating shelters and clinics around the country. You may configure it to send you detailed Lost Pet Alerts for missing dogs and cats in your region. If your dog or cat escapes, her information can notify PetRescuers to be on the lookout. The app also includes information on what to do if you locate a lost pet and heartwarming tales about microchipped dogs that have been reunited with their families.

                                         

MYPET REMINDERS

Keeping track of your pet's doctor appointments and prescriptions is essential, but it can quickly become burdensome. This is where the MyPet Reminders app comes in. Make a profile for your pets and remember key dates.

THE BARK: DOG CULTURE MAGAZINE

It's just a clever and well-written magazine for dog owners, regaling readers with intelligent features and essays, reproductions of dog art and animal behavior guidelines, as well as training pieces, book reviews, veterinary information, and more. The editors also have a soft spot for photos of happy pets. It's free to read, but it costs money to download an issue or subscribe.

ROVER

Rover can link you if you're a pet parent looking for a dog sitter or someone who wants to work as a pet carer. Rover, the largest firm of its sort, lists dog walkers, pet-boarders, homesitters, and other pet lovers in over 10,000 places.

DOGSYNC

DogSync can assist you if you have more than one dog, share pet care with others, or just want a record of when your dog's requirements are met. This software allows you to record when a pet has been walked, watered, and fed, transported to the vet, and given medication if necessary, among other things. It allows you to instantly interact with people in your "pack" and seek assistance with tasks.

DOG CLICKER TRAINING

Many behaviorists advocate for clicker training. It's a good approach to encourage positive conduct if each click is followed with a goodie. This simple software, which includes three distinct noises, eliminates the need to carry along a separate clicker.

PETPARENT

Users in large cities may use this app to connect with a community of individuals who love and care for dogs. It provides information about pet-friendly locations such as dog parks as well as companies such as groomers and doggy daycare. You can upload a photo of your pet, schedule a play date, and even locate dog-friendly pubs and brunch locations.

WAG: DOG WALKING

Wag, which is still in its early stages, links devoted dog owners with insured, bonded, and background-checked dog walkers to pick and book. Here's why: after your dog walks out, you can use the app's GPS map to follow its location in real-time. In addition, after each walk, you will receive a report that includes a photo or video, the distance traveled, the duration, and if your dog peed or pooped. Please keep in mind that not all geographic regions offer dog walkers and that this app is presently only available for iPhone users.

NEKO ATSUME

Nobody needs a new obsession, but Neko Atsume is adorable and asks for so little. When you put out some virtual food, a few cats emerge. With certain toys, you'll encounter additional cats to shoot for the in-app cat book. There is no bloodshed or gunfire, just some cartoony cats that appear to play and eat. But keep an eye out for Tubbs. He's a gobbler, and you'll need to replenish the food bowls as soon as he arrives.

BONUS: PETDIABETES TRACKER

The PetDiabetes Tracker app is an important must-have if your pet has diabetes. The software not only helps pet parents to monitor and track their pet's diabetic symptoms, but it also allows you to enter critical medical data such as blood glucose levels. It also includes useful reminders for insulin injections and veterinary appointments. You may then email a comprehensive report of the data you entered to your veterinarian immediately from the app.

 It is an undeniable reality that a pet's requirements change throughout time. Providing the best care for them throughout their lives allows them to have a healthy and happy existence. Because keeping your pet healthy is a lifelong commitment, giving the greatest care at all stages is a must. You must establish a plan and follow a set of mandatory actions for each stage of your furry pal's existence to preserve the quality of his life. The daily or life stage needs of your pet change with each ascending and vital life stage. You must now provide for all of them by the demands of their growing years.

Explore and learn about the fundamental necessities that are unavoidable for their good health at each stage of life.

Care for Puppies and Kittens

For maximum growth, a freshly acquired puppy or kitten needs specialized care. Not only should you go to the vet regularly, but here are some more things to think about.

The first step is to schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible for your pet's physical checkup.

The second step is to check your pet for fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and other health issues. This ensures that the new member is healthy and does not spread sickness to other animals or people.

Puppies and kittens are particularly vulnerable to parasite diseases. It is critical, to begin with, a flea and tick prevention program to safeguard them against preventable illnesses. This reduces flea and tick infestations while also protecting your puppy or cat from flea and tick-borne illnesses.

In addition to flea and tick prevention, wormers should be administered to your puppy. Worms can be passed on from moms to pups and kittens. As a result, using wormer regularly assists in the removal of worms and the control of various worm diseases in your furry child.

Puppies are susceptible to heartworm illness, in addition to other parasite diseases, due to their poor immunity. Heartworm disease will be tested by your veterinarian. If the test results are negative, you can begin taking monthly heartworm preventives. These are available in flavored chews that are easy for pups to consume.

Due to a lack of immunity, puppies and kittens are not only prone to heartworm illness but also a variety of other avoidable ailments. As a result, immunization is critical in protecting your four-legged child from these illnesses. Your veterinarian may create a vaccination schedule for your pet, ensuring that no vaccinations are missed.

Other factors to consider as your puppy or kitten develops include basic pet training, social networking, an adequate diet, and lots of cuddles.

However, if you observe any of the following signs or symptoms in your furry friend, you must take him or her to a veterinarian.

• Excessive urination or drinking
• Rapid weight reduction
• Appetite loss
• The unexpected rise in appetite
• Behavioral shifts
• Ear smells, redness, jerking, itching, or shaking of the head
• Having difficulty defecating or urinating
• Lumps, pimples, or discomfort on the skin
• Bad breath, plaque, or bleeding gums are all symptoms of gum disease.
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Incapable of walking
• Looks sluggish

Adult Animal Care

As your puppy or kitten grows into an adult, certain aspects of their pet care routine change. First and foremost, the pet's diet must be adjusted to reflect their body weight and medical conditions. When compared to growing puppies or kittens, adults require more food. Adult pets should also be examined at least twice a year to prevent or detect any unusual health conditions.

Because pets age faster, extra care must be taken at this stage because health problems can progress quickly. Adult pets commonly suffer from ear and eye disease, dental conditions, obesity, endocrine disease, intestinal parasites, tumors or lumps, and skin diseases, particularly those caused by fleas and ticks. Even if your pet appears healthy, some of these diseases are not detectable in the early stages. Conditions such as intestinal parasitic infestations, skin diseases caused by external parasites, and dental diseases, on the other hand, are highly preventable if your pet receives regular treatments.

Furthermore, adult dogs are predisposed to chronic pain as a result of the onset of arthritis problems. They may experience pain as a result of joint disease, skin rashes, or itching as a result of flea and tick bites. Regular joint supplements help to reduce joint discomfort, therefore avoiding the onset of arthritis symptoms. Furthermore, monthly flea and tick treatment with Nexgard, Advantage, or Eliminall spot-on reduce itching, scratching, and skin rashes in pets, as well as flea allergic dermatitis.

Senior Pet Care 

When your pet reaches the golden age, he or she expects more attention and love from you. The progress of animal health medications has increased, which has had a significant influence on the quality of life of elderly pets, enhancing their health. However, greater longevity has its own set of disadvantages. The increased longevity has also given rise to a slew of health issues in elderly dogs.

During this stage, health issues worsen faster, necessitating more specialized care to give the finest care for your senior pet. They are extremely prone to osteoarthritis, renal disease, heart disease, liver disease, cancer, and diabetes at this time.

6 General questions about therapeutic pets

Pet therapy animals other than service animals

What to ask when thinking about animal-assisted therapy

1. What happens during pet therapy? -

It depends on your settings. In most cases, the therapist supervises the animal and its handler (usually the owner) when they are referred to the patient and the parameters of the competition are established. Most animals (not fish of course) are on display not only for direct care, but also for petting and cuddling.

2. What are the risks of pet therapy?

-The risks, if any, are negligible. The property selects a fleet of livestock / handlers to meet the criteria. Participants must wear helmets and other protective equipment when handling large animals such as horses. Interactions are monitored to ensure that neither party is harmed.

3. How to prepare for pet therapy?

- The details of the specific program you are attending will be explained in advance, even before accepting. The first meeting was a bit tumultuous until the animal and the patient got used to each other.

4. What kind of animals are used?

It depends on the patient's treatment needs. Common animals are dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, birds and guinea pigs. Some organizations do not certify what they consider to be "exotic animals." This includes snakes, lizards and ferrets.

5. Is this treatment really useful? R

esearch is still underway, but pets have been used for medical purposes for hundreds of years. Pet owners are more likely to survive a medical accident such as a heart attack than those who do not. The calming effect of the pet reduces stress and anxiety around the pet.

6. Where can I find therapy dogs and other pets? -

Local organizations exist in most regions. You can search Google for nationally recognized organizations to find languages ​​in your area. If you are asking someone in a hospital or nursing facility, talk to your staff to see if they offer such a program.

Get the information and answers you need about pet therapy.