| News and Tips
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Shih Tzu Palace Puppies |
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Greetings!
Si-Si was in her first dog show on May 5th and 6th. She was the youngest Shih Tzu in the 6-9 month female puppies. She did well for her first showing coming in 3rd and 4th. Here is her picture on her big day.
May is half over and it is time to start looking at being out doors even more. With this there come risks, some of our little friends do not understand how to be quiet. Our article on barking may help there. Then we also need to look at those who may escape our care. The importance of Microchipping cannot be stressed enough.
I hope you enjoy reading our newsletter and pass it on to friends and family
Sincerely,
Barbie Becker
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 Assessing Canine Separation Anxiety
Section: What is Canine Separation Anxiety?
Canine separation anxiety (SA) is a behavioral disorder marked by a dog's excessive anxiety when left alone. It is usually manifested as destruction of the owner's property, often vain attempts to escape, and other behaviors that may be injurious to the dog or annoying to people sharing the dog's environment. It is important to note that, with separation anxiety, these behaviors occur only in the owner's absence. The dog is not attempting to get even" with his owners for leaving him; he is truly distressed at being left alone.
The condition can be treated through behavioral modification techniques and medication. However, the veterinarian will want to make sure the animal suffers from separation anxiety, not simply from boredom, before recommending a specific course of therapy, particularly if the treatment includes drugs. To this end, the veterinarian may ask the dog's owner to fill out a questionnaire designed to help him or her assess whether a dog truly does suffer from separation anxiety.
What Will an Assessment of Canine Separation Anxiety Reveal?
Separation anxiety is considered to be a syndrome of pathological attachment of a dog to its caregivers. It usually presents as a constellation of behaviors, a syndrome, not just as one or two isolated behaviors. Correctly diagnosing separation anxiety requires veterinarians to consider the various behaviors expressed and to determine whether they fit a pattern. A number of other conditions that may be confused with separation anxiety must be ruled out before a diagnosis of separation anxiety can be confirmed.
How is an Assessment for Separation Anxiety Performed?
Owners fill out a questionnaire that encompasses factors such as the dog's background (known to influence the development of separation anxiety), its attachment to them, pre-departure and post-departure behaviors, and greeting behavior. The questionnaire should be filled out at the time of a dog's first veterinary visit for early detection of the syndrome. That way, corrective measures can be taken before the condition exacerbates.
In addition, all owners of newly acquired dogs should be asked to complete the questionnaire to detect separation anxiety so that, if necessary, they can be advised on about "independence training." Owners of any dogs exhibiting behavior problems when their owner is away from home should be asked to complete the questionnaire so that a definitive diagnosis can be made.
Owners may be asked to complete a questionnaire similar to the one below, checking yes, no, or don't know to the questions relating to the dog's history (background). While not all dogs with separation anxiety have had a disturbed background, many have, so positive answers in this section provide an element of suspicion that SA is involved. Questions under the heading "behavior" relate to the dog's attachment level, pre- and post-departure cues, behavior in the owner's absence, and greeting behavior. Here, affirmative responses may be qualified as mild, moderate or severe. Scoring the behaviors (see below) gives an indication of the severity of the condition.
Note: The following sample of questions and interpretation sections are meant for information only. Any assessment should be done under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian. Owners should not attempt to diagnose separation anxiety themselves.
History
Did you acquire your dog after 3 months of age?
Did you acquire your dog at 5 weeks of age or less?
Was your puppy an orphan or hand raised?
Was your dog acquired from a shelter, pound, or pet shop?
Has your dog had multiple owners during his/her life?
Behavior
Does your dog follow you around the house?
Does your dog become anxious at the sound of car keys or when you put on your coat or shoes to go out?
Does your dog exhibit other problem behaviors as you prepare to leave?
Does your dog bark or whine excessively within 30 minutes of your departure?
After you leave does your dog act depressed?
After you leave does your dog have a loss of appetite?
Does your dog destroy property only when you are away?
Does your dog urinate or defecate in your home only when you are away?
Does your dog regularly have diarrhea, vomit, or lick excessively in your absence?
Does your dog exhibit an excessive greeting on your return (jumping, hyperactivity, barking, more than 2-3 minutes)?
Interpretation
Affirmative answers to 5 out of 10 questions in the behavioral section indicates separation anxiety.
Affirmative answers to any of the historical questions plus 4 out of 10 affirmative answers in the behavioral section of the questionnaire is grounds for a diagnosis of separation anxiety.
Affirmative responses to 3 of 10 behavioral questions, as long as these include hyper-attachment, destructive behavior, vocalization, or elimination behavior.
Affirmative answers to any 3 questions, including one indicating a dysfunctional background, indicates a sub-threshold level of affliction. I.e. the disorder is present to an extent but is not definitively diagnosable.
Affirmative answers to less than 3 questions usually rules out separation anxiety.
For scoring, affirmative answers in any area of the history section scores 1 point (maximum score in this category). Responses to the behavioral questions are scored: Does not occur = 0, mild = 1, moderate = 2, severe = 3. A dog diagnosable with separation anxiety will thus have a minimum score of 5 points (5 mild expressions of behavioral anomaly in the behavioral section, or a dysfunctional history plus 4 affirmative answers in the behavioral section). Alternatively, a score of 4 points total, comprising the specific behaviors indicted above could be considered diagnostic. At the other end of the scale, the most severe case of separation anxiety possible would have a score of 30 on the behavioral questions (plus an additional 1 point if the dog had a dysfunctional history, as well). |
 If Your Shih Tzu Suffers From Separation Anxiety....
Separation anxiety, also known in the dog training world as owner absent misbehavior, is one of the most frequently encountered problems in the world of dog training. Separation anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways, including chewing, destroying the owner's property, excessive barking, self destructive behavior and inappropriate urination and defecation. Shih Tzu suffering from separation anxiety often whine, bark, cry, howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door the entire time their family members are away. Well meaning owners often unwittingly encourage this misbehavior by rushing home to reassure the shih tzu, but it is important for the well being of both shih tzu and owner that the shih tzu learn to deal with extended periods of separation.
How the owner leaves the house can often contribute to separation anxiety issues. A long and drawn out period of farewell can make matters worse by making the shih tzu feel even more isolated when the owner finally leaves. These long types of farewells can get the shih tzu excited, and then leave him with lots of excess energy and no way to work it off. These excited, isolated shih tzu often work off their excess energy in the most destructive of ways, such as chewing up a favorite rug or piece of furniture.
Excess energy is often mistaken for separation anxiety, since results are often the same. If you think that excess amounts of energy may be the problem, try giving your more exercise to see if that eliminates the problem.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, it is important to address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring, it is important for the shih tzu to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while the owner is away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the shih tzu plenty of things to keep it busy while you are away. This means providing it with lots of toys, such as balls or chew toys. A pet companion is often effective at relieving separation anxiety as well. Giving the shih tzu a playmate, such as another dog or a cat, is a great way for busy pet parents and pets alike to cope with the stress of being left alone.
Setting aside scheduled play times, during which the shih tzu is given your undivided attention, is another great way to alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. Playing with the shih tzu, and providing it with sufficient attention and exercise, is a proven way to avoid a stressed and anxious shih tzu. A happy shih tzu that has been well exercised and well conditioned will generally sleep the day away happily and patiently wait for the return of its owner. It is important to schedule one of these daily play sessions before you leave the house each day. It is important to give the shih tzu a few minutes to settle down after playtime before you leave.
For shih tzu that are already experiencing separation anxiety and associated misbehavior, it is important to get him accustomed to your leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and returning at irregular intervals, several times during the day. Doing so will get your shih tzu accustomed to your departures and help him realize that you are not leaving him forever. Shih tzu that have been previously lost, or those that have been surrendered to shelters and adopted, often have the worst problems with separation anxiety. Part of treating this problem is teaching the shih tzu that your leaving is not permanent. |
 Incessant Barking
What does it mean when a dog barks? The bark is the dog's word, and it can mean many things. Your dog barks when he is alerting you to an intruder, when he is afraid, when he is playful, and when he is bored. Barking is caused by the presence of stimuli such as strange people, dogs, sights or sounds, the owner's absence, or as an attention seeking mechanism.
The easiest way to control barking is to socialize your dog to make him comfortable around people, places and things and to instill in him a strong chew toy habit so that he is mentally and physically exercised and occupied. However, just as you would not attempt to completely silence a person, you should not try to completely stop your dog from barking. Your dog just needs to learn some basic bark control such as when to bark and for how long. Regardless of the reason for your dog barking, your goal is to properly socialize him, to teach him to focus on something other than barking, and to teach him to speak and be quiet on command so you can control when and for how long he barks.Alarm Barker: Dogs who bark at the presence of intruders can be a valuable asset. It is very ironic that barking dogs are now such a problem in our society when it is also considered as an alarm. Actually, barking is believed to be one of the main reasons we domesticated dogs in the first place and one of the reasons we live with dogs today. Usually, it is not the barking that is a problem, just that the dog is a little too enthusiastic. Most people want their dogs to let them know when someone has stepped onto the property. Barking only becomes a problem if the dog does not settle afterwards.Teach your dog to bark and be quiet on cue; thereby having an on/off switch. To implement this training, invite three friends to come over for a speak-and-shush party, and within half an hour you will have a well- trained barker. Have your dog's treat on hand. Next, instruct your visitors to knock on the door and reward your dog by saying "thank you", followed by a treat when he barks. Your dog may look a bit shocked for a moment. After all, he is probably used to being yelled at when he barks. Then, to get him to be quiet, say "shush," and waggle a piece of treat in front of his nose. Once he sniffs the food, he will be quiet and so give him the treat as a reward. Repeat this many times, and your dog will become increasingly aware of how much fun it is to speak on request and how rewarding it is to shush on request. |
 Microchipping: What is it and how can it ensure that your pet is always yours?
Each year, more than 10 million pets are lost. It can easily happen, no matter how much we all try to prevent it. When your pet is lost and if they do not have a collar or their collar gets lost, it can be very difficult for them to find their way home. According to the American Humane Association, only about 17% of lost dogs and 2% of lost cats ever find their owners. Nearly 20 million pets are euthanized each year because their owners cannot be located. If your pet is microchipped, there is a much greater chance that they will return to you safely. Microchips will last for your pet's lifetime as there are no moving parts and nothing to replace.
A microchip is a small computer chip that has an identification number programmed into it. It is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle. Once implanted, the I.D. number cannot be altered or removed. Once the chip is implanted, a layer of connective tissue forms around the chip preventing it from moving about.
Some people are hesitant to microchip their pet because they are afraid it will hurt. The procedure is simple, routine, and painless, and it doesn't require any anesthesia. Your pet simply gets an injection just under the loose skin between the shoulder blades; it's a lot like getting vaccinated. Most animals don't react at all. Long term studies have shown that the microchip is very safe for your pets.
The chip contains an identification code that is unique to your pet. Most veterinarians and animal shelters have scanners that can read that identification code. Most use universal scanners that will read all brands of microchips.
There are two major manufacturers of microchips. One of the most popular is the AVID (American Veterinary Identification Devices) microchip. When you get an AVID microchip implanted in your dog, you will register with PETrac. Your veterinarian will have the application information to send in to PETrac. If you do not receive this information, or if your information such as address, phone number, or veterinarian changes, you may call PETrac directly at (800) 336-2843 to make the appropriate changes. Your dog will also receive a tag for his collar with his AVID microchip number prominently displayed. When your lost pet is found, they will be scanned and the information will be called in to PETrac. Their database will bring up your information and you will be notified immediately.
Another popular brand of microchip is the Schering-Plough HomeAgain microchip. Once your pet is microchipped with the Schering-Plough HomeAgain microchip, you will register with the American Kennel Club (AKC) Companion Animal Recovery (CAR) program. This program maintains a national database and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just as with AVID's PETrac system, when your lost pet is found, they will be scanned, the number will be called into the AKC-CAR (1-800-252-7894) and you will be notified immediately. A microchip provides permanent identification unlike tags alone. When you register, you provide information to the AKC-CAR - your contact information, your veterinarian's information and an alternate contact. The program personnel will call the other numbers if you cannot be reached. Remember to contact the AKC-CAR if you any of the above information changes.
The system works! More than 1 ½ million pets are enrolled in the AKC Companion Animal Recovery program and 97% have HomeAgain microchips. 126,034 lost pets have been reunited with their owners thanks to this program which has a 100% success rate. Every found pet in its system has been identified.
The American Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (ASPCA) also supports the use of microchip IDs for animal identification. They feel that it is the most reliable system for the recovery of lost pets.
Ideally, leashes, fences, and doors would be enough to keep your pet safe at home, but in the real world, accidents happen, and your pet depends on you to protect him or her against the things that could go wrong. With a little effort now, you can take a big step toward ensuring that your pet will be with you in the future |
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 Shih Tzu Comedy:Does Your Shih Tzu Own You?
See how many of these statements
apply to you and your Shih Tzu.
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You believe every Shih Tzu is a lap Shih Tzu.
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If you are cold, you put a sweater on your Shih Tzu.
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You have a picture of your Shih Tzu in your wallet, but not one of your kids.
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You often claim that it was love at first sight with you and your Shih Tzu.
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You have your Shih Tzu talk to your friends on the phone.
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You can't fully enjoy yourself without your Shih Tzu.
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No matter how large your bed is, it is not large enough for you and your Shih Tzu(s).
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You spend more on clothes and food for your Shih Tzu than you do for yourself.
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You have no reservations about kissing your Shih Tzu on the lips, even when you know where his lips have been.
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You believe it is your duty to talk to, pat, and even feed every dog in the neighborhood. You know their names.
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You let the neighbor dog sleep over.
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You believe there is no such thing as a naughty Shih Tzu.
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Your vet and grooming bills exceed your rent.
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When you need someone to talk to, your Shih Tzu is your first choice.
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You sit on the floor if the Shih Tzu got in the chair first.
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You talk to your Shih Tzu when you are driving. He answers.
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Your Shih Tzu taught you to fetch and roll over.
Score: 12-17- -Your Shih Tzu owns you; 7-11 -- He will soon; 3-6 -- You do love her; 0-2 -- You have a pet. |
 DOG OWNER'S PRAYER
O' Lord, don't let me once forget how I love my trusty pet.
Help me learn to disregard canine craters in my yard.
Show me how to be a buddy even when my sofa's muddy.
Don't allow my pooch to munch postal carriers for lunch.
Shield my neighbors's cat from view, guide my steps around the doo.
Train me not to curse and scowl, when it's puppy's night to howl.
Grant I shan't awake in fear with a cold nose in my ear.
Give me patience without end - Help me be "A Dog's Best Friend." |
 Cooking for Your Dog
Welcome to our kitchen! In our newsletters you will find free dog treat recipes for homemade dog treats, snacks, biscuits, cookies and bones. Making home made dog treats is really fun project to do with your children or grandchildren!
Puppy Pretzels
Ingredients:
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1 teaspoon brown sugar
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2 teaspoons active dry yeast
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2/3 cup water
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3/4 cup whole wheat flour
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3 tablespoons soy flour, low fat
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1/4 cup nonfat dry milk
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1 tablespoon dried liver powder
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1 tablespoon bone meal flour
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3/4 teaspoon salt
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1 egg -- beaten (1/2 in recipe, 1/2 in glaze)
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2 tablespoons cooking oil
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3 tablespoons wheat germ
Directions:
Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water.
Combine dry ingredients. Add half of the beaten egg, oil and yeast-water mixture. Mix well.
Knead on a well floured board until dough is firm. Place in oiled bowl, cover and let rise until double in bulk.
Shape into pretzels and place on greased cookie sheet. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 15 minutes. Remove and brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with wheat germ. Return to oven and bake at 300 degrees for about 15 minutes until nicely browned and quite firm.
Note: You may omit liver powder and bone meal flour if you have difficulty locating them.
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Wacky Wheat Treats
Ingredients:
- 2 jars baby food meat (chicken, lamb, beef, etc.. - you choose!)
- 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk
- 2 ounces wheat germ
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
Directions:
Mix together well. Roll out dough on floured surface. Cut out witch hat patterns and place on lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake in a 325 degree oven until golden brown, about 30-35 minutes. Cook and store in an air-tight container.
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Well, that's it for this week. I hope you have enjoyed the articles.
If you have any suggestions or requests for future articles or comments about this or past newsletters, please contact me.
Next time we will have some articles about summer fun, car, fashions, and travel tips. Of course, we will have a couple of pet friendly recipes also.
Until next time.....................
Enjoy these pictures, and take care!
Barbie
(left to right: Wicket and Si-Si hanging out; Si-Si saying "I'm so pretty"; Bear and Nick (from Shodu and Vanna's last litters) during an Easter visit.)
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