Classical Canines

Though we know the auditory range of dogs far exceeds our own hearing capabilities, what we often forget is just how acutely they hear sounds. As a result, noises that typically do not disturb us or that we have grown accustomed to, like the sound of thunder and fireworks, can have a much greater impact on the delicate ears of our dogs. It goes without saying that loud, excessive noise can be grating to our canines and is probably why dogs become frenzied and riled up when they hear rock, jazz, or rap music.

On the other end of the spectrum, new research shows that classical music has the opposite effect, and tends to calm canines. Lisa Spector, a classical pianist, noticed the soothing ramifications her piano practice had on her dog, a generally rambunctious pup that became noticeably calmer whenever she played. Approaching this subject with Sound Analyst, Joshua Leeds, the two developed a line of CDs designed for dogs, called Through a Dog’s Ear.

The CDs are an effort to provide anxious dogs with deep relaxation. They focus on classical music and break the music down with easy, slow melodies to follow in which the majority of the music is played by a single instrument: the piano. There are no rich harmonies or dynamic chord progressions to tickle the eardrums, just classical music in a pure, simplified form that provides easy listening for dogs and humans alike. The music is played an octave lower, which according to Spector, lowers dogs’ heart rate.

When interviewing the team behind this concept, the CBS Early Morning Show conducted their own experiment at a doggie daycare facility and found that when rock, jazz or rap music was played, the dogs became energized and when classical music was played, the dogs slowed down, some even curled up for a nap. A book with the same name, Through a Dog’s Ear, written and researched by Joshua Leeds and Susan Wagner, a veterinary neurologist, tackles the science behind the concept by illuminating the auditory world of our canine companions.

Morris K9 Campus actively applies this concept by understanding the importance of rest following activity and play. After the dogs have spent time romping around with their other canine pals, we allow them to rest to the sounds of calming and relaxing classical music. 

Do you use calming music for your dog at home? Tell us about it!

Sources:

http://www.throughadogsear.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zytCL33Mf2Q

The Golden Years

After giving you many years of loyalty, support and companionship, doesn’t your dog deserve the best care you can give him? With the right routines and some loving care, watching your canine companion grow older can be a rewarding experience.

Most veterinarians believe a dog is in his senior years when he reaches the last third of his normal life expectancy. For instance, a large breed dog, such as a Great Dane that lives to be an average of nine years old, would be considered "senior" when he reached the age of six. A poodle that normally lives to be 15 years old would be considered "senior" at 10 years old.

As your pet ages, you may first notice outward signs: white around the muzzle, less exuberance, hesitation trying to stand up after a nap or difficulty climbing into your vehicle. Then there are the internal signs we can't see, like a slowing metabolism, and changing nutritional requirements. Just as we give special attention to the needs of puppies, dogs heading into their senior years require unique attention to help comfort them and extend their precious time with us.

If you're lucky enough to share your home with an older pet, here are some tips we recommend for their care:

Exercise is still important. Although they can still have a grand old time romping and playing, you may need to adjust the frequency and intensity of the exercise your older pet engages in. Using those muscles regularly will help his mobility and possibly even stave off certain diseases. Shorter, more frequent walks or swims can help keep your dog in shape and his weight under control, and the continuation of current activities, whether it be games of fetch or agility, should be continued until your dog exhibits any sign of discomfort.

If your canine friend has arthritis or is stiff and sore, a ramp will help him to get up and down from higher areas like vehicles or furniture, will make it much easier on his joints, and will allow him to maintain some of the adventure he enjoyed as a youngster.

Be gentle on those joints. To protect older elbows and haunches, provide your mature dog with a firm, orthopedic foam bed. There are beds out there specifically designed by veterinarians to "medical-grade", distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure on joints. They are also much easier to get out of in the morning!

Elevated food and water bowls can make eating and drinking more comfortable for arthritic pets, particularly if there is stiffness in the neck or back.

Take your vitamins. Dogs that have arthritis often benefit from drug-free nutritional supplements that contain ingredients such as Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Vitamin C. Just be sure to consult your veterinarian, who can recommend the best supplements for your dog.

Give lots of loving attention. As your pet ages, keep a closer eye on his movements, behavior, and habits. Look for the signs, such as loss of appetite, excessive sleeping, irritability, changes in his gait, weakness, and incontinence. If your pet shows these signs, have him checked by your veterinarian. Be prepared to treat him with a little more love and care than ever before.

7 Reasons Why It's Good to Be A Dog in 2010

Considering the current state of the economy, you may be wondering if you chose the right time to welcome a new canine member into your family. The fact of the matter is that there are many more advantages to being a dog today than there were 25 years ago, so congratulate your dog(s) for arriving on earth at just the right time!

1.  Dog-focused activities are thriving. Dog camps, obedience, training, herding and tracking, agility, flyball and rally-o are readily available to dog owners looking to enhance their dog's quality of life.

2. Dogs who suffer from injuries or arthritis now have options. Acupuncture and massage have proven equally as effective for dog's ailments (and without the side effects) as medications.


3. Dogs are more welcome outside the home than they were 25 years ago. Many workplaces, businesses and shops now invite dogs as their guests. In addition, the number of dogs who live inside our houses as opposed to outdoors has nearly quadrupled.

4. Resources like Morris K9 Campus are readily available to help with canine behavioral issues. While dogs may have been euthanized for poor behavior in the past, many of these concerns can now be easily corrected with training or obedience.

5. Travel is easier. Whereas 25 years ago dogs may have had to be caged in a less than ideal kennel situation, there are now wonderful, even luxury lodging experiences available to dogs. Morris Animal Inn, in Morristown for example, is a perfect place for your dog to vacation while you travel! In addition, riding in cars is now safer for dogs due to crates.

6. Life on leash is way more comfortable for dogs today due to many innovative products like Snoot, Flexi, and Halti. Choke chains are a thing of the past.

7. Play is commonly accepted as a necessary part of a dog's development. Well-socialized dogs must play with toys, their owners, other dogs and other people to gain a sense of confidence and comfort in a multitude of situations throughout their lives. Play during puppyhood is now viewed as a critical part of this socialization process. From Kongs to specially-designed water toys to Jolly Balls, a dog's options for play are now endless, making for a much happier life!