Military And Pets - Can they do it?

Military And Pets
Can they live together as a forever family?

"Why do military people even have pets?  If you're in the military, you shouldn't own any."  I read that in a comment for a Facebook post seeking a home for a surrendered dog.  The owner had to deploy and gave his dog up to the local humane society.  My first instinct was to get defensive.  How dare someone judge a military member's abilities to care for their pet!  Then I sat and thought about it for a moment.  I went through the Craigslist Pets section and sure enough there were PLENTY of pets being rehomed due to deployments or new assignments.  My heart sank.

Bruce has moved with me, been boarded during temporary duties away from home, and even comes to work with me when I work late nights.  I couldn't give him up- I made a promise to him that this family is his last.  What goes through the minds of military members who end up giving up their dogs?

We're PCS'ing and can't take our dog.
Yes you can.  The priest who took in Bentley had his last cat for 14 years and he was stationed at a new place every 2-3 years.  That includes overseas locations.  That cat went with him every time.  A friend of mine has been in the military for 15 years and had his Labrador with him since he was a pup at my friend's first base.  He has travelled all over the country, overseas, and has been deployed several times.  The dog has never been rehomed. 

Exceptions:  Pit Bulls are banned in some locations.  In that case, you may have to rehome.  If this is the reason, though, rehome kindly and wisely.  Always have a back up plan for your pet.  Make dog-lover friends.  Not social enough?  Get social enough-- your dog depends on you.

My husband's deploying and I'm taking the kids to live with my mom.
I see this reason SO MUCH on Craigslist and Facebook.  First, as a single mom I understand wanting to be closer to family when you're the only parent in the home.  But I would never live with anyone who wouldn't allow my dog to come with me.  Sorry.  There's just no reason to make such a permanent decision for a temporary situation.  However, if you really MUST go live with your mom while your husband's deployed, why not find a foster home for your dog?

Our new place doesn't allow dogs (or dogs that are as big as mine).
Then why did you choose to move there?  Before I left my last base I did so much research for a home that would allow my 90lb dog.  It was hard!  But I didn't give up and I found a nice place.  I wasn't going to move to a new place knowing they didn't allow my dog.  It's not an option for me.  My dog is a part of my family-- he stays with me wherever I go as if he were my child.

Moving from a house to an apartment?  Bruce was an outside dog before I adopted him.  He didn't live in a home.  And now we're in an apartment that is under 900 square feet.  He doesn't have a yard to run in.  So we're forced to go outside on nature walks.  We love it.

My dog would be too stressed during the travel.
Don't you think he'd be less stressed moving WITH YOU than being dumped into a shelter or a new home?  Dogs are loyal animals.  They may be stressed during the trip or even adjusting to a new place, but here are a few questions:  Don't you stress during travels?  Don't you have to adjust to a new home?  Don't your kids?  Why is his stress more a reason to dump him than it is a normal part of life?

It's too expensive.
Dogs are NOT cheap!  But didn't you know that before you brought him into your family?  Just like humans, dogs require medical care, food, shelter, etc.  Humane societies and other outreach programs are dedicated to helping dog owners KEEP their dogs.  Turn to them for help that may be less expensive than other places.

Bottom Line

Military members CAN have dogs and be a great forever family-- If the military member is willing to be as dedicated to the dog as the dog is dedicated to its family.  Do onto others.  It's as simple as that.  There are so many wonderful military families who are wonderful dog-owners.  It is not impossible.

When military members keep their dogs throughout their dogs' lives, despite their military duties and the sacrifices that are made, they experience a love that can only exist between mankind and their dogs.

Deploying?

Nobody to keep your dog while you're gone?

There are people out there who WANT to help you!

 

Dogs On Deployment

Dogs on Deployment is a 501(c)(3) non-profit providing a central database for military members to find families and individuals who are willing to board their pets while they are deployed. No pet should ever be surrendered due to a military commitment. DoD exists to help military members keep their pets by alleviating the need for pet relinquishment from military members due to the hardships of deployments.

http://dogsondeployment.org/

 

Sittercity

Military members, did you know that Sittercity offers you a free membership?

Apply with your DEERS information and you will have the ability to search for child AND pet care in your local area.  Sittercity offers reviews of caregivers as well as whether or not the provider has a current background check.

I use Sittercity and found my foster home for my dog to care for him while I was deployed!

www.sittercity.com

 

Heartwarming Video

Oldie but goodie.  Enjoy!

 

 

Thank you for reading!

 I write not for myself but for my dog and others like him who

waited behind cage bars for someone to take them

home.

Please send your input to me at Justkeepthedog@gmail.com!

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Doing the Work

IT'S SATURDAY!!!!

Doing the Work

I was on Facebook the other day and I read a post someone wrote that they were in search of a shock collar.  They described how frustrated they were about their dog who keeps darting out the door.  A bunch of people commented on electric fences and other types of corrective tools.  The original poster reiterated how she was at her "wits end" with this dog and that she had tried everything from yelling to sneaking out the door.  I wanted to pull my hair out.  And then I had to remember that I was once in her shoes.

Prior to going through dog obedience/behavior training, most people spend their dog ownership "dealing" with behavioral problems. 

When I had my door darter, I had to establish pack hierarchy. I was alpha and the dog was part of the pack, the lowest part. That meant, no dog on furniture unless invited her up. No pets unless I initiated it. So when she wanted to play I ignored her and once she got bored and gave up, I initiated play. She began to look to me for guidance instead of just going nuts.

When it came to the door, I practiced door manners. I went to the door and she would immediately follow. Dogs understand body language, not human language unless it is something they associate with training. So I walk to the door with my back facing her, I stop about four feet away from the door, turn around and call her to sit and stay in front of me. Praise and treat. Then, I walk to the door, still with my back to her and remind her to stay. Praise and treat. I reach for the knob and look back to check if she moved. If not, I turn the knob. If she darts, I give a small growl. Nothing crazy, just something to stop her. Then I put her back and sit stay at the invisible line I established initially. This is where the work is when you train in problem areas. It is step by step, moving back to the spot where she began. Praise and treat for each step she does well. If she doesn't do what you want, you try again then praise and treat.

Eventually you'll get to the point where you will stand at the doorway with the door open and she will still be at that invisible line. Then you will close the door and praise highly.

For door darters, you have to teach your dog that it is YOUR door, not theirs. It is your house. You are in control. While you're training you will find yourself feeling bad, even maybe feeling like a bully. But dogs are pack members. They respect and love the alpha. You as alpha will make them feel secure and safe. No need to dart, no need to go crazy because they trust that as their leader, you got this.

Dogs speak dog and humans speak human.  Training is the line that connects you both.  It solves or prevents the majority of behavioral problems in dogs.  Having a dog is like having a kid-- they require your help in being successful family members!  Take the time to do the work.

Today's Toon

Do You Feed Raw?
Johanna from our Facebook page is looking for some advice on raw feeding.  She currently cooks her dog food but would like to know more about raw.  Please click here to leave her a comment! 

Are You On Instagram?

Post your doggie pics and use #justkeepthedog to tag us!

Your pic will make it to our Featured Instagram Dog!

Bruce gives me puppy eyes!



New Baby?  Don't Give Up The Dog!

Click on the Newsletter!

I always hated that part in Lady And The Tramp when Lady's owners bring home the baby and suddenly Lady is kicked out of the house and left to stay outside.  The dog is a part of your family.  When you find out you're pregnant, you have months to prepare him for the change in his pack that is about to take place.  Don't automatically assume he'll adjust as soon as you haul that infant carrier into the home.  Check out Bark Buster's Bringing Home Baby tips to find out how you can help your dog adjust!




Book Highlight

JJ The American Street Dog

by Diane Rose-Solomon

I met someone on Twitter a few weeks ago.  A fellow dog lover!  I swear, people who love dogs have a heart where a special blend of love exists.  Diane Rose-Solomon is the author of JJ The American Street Dog, a book dedicated the educating children about adopting instead of purchasing a dog from a pet store.  This book is beautifully illustrated and my two young boys absolutely love it! I purchased this book a few weeks ago and it arrived quickly. 

Click here to get yours now!



Thinking of Dumping Your Dog?

Every dog in a shelter has his own story.  Each of them loved their family before being dumped off.  Most people who surrender their dogs do so for very common reasons:

1. Moving - apartment doesn't allow dogs
2. Lack of training - chewing, barking, pottying in the house
3. Not enough time - busy lifestyle, children, too many pets
4. Cost - routine health care, senior dog needing special care
5. Allergies - sudden reaction to dog's dander or fur

So you're moving and the new place doesn't allow dogs.  Here's an answer - don't move there.  I live in a city where the majority of apartments do not allow dogs over 35-50lbs.  Bruce is 90lbs!  I couldn't live in the beautiful apartment I wanted unless I gave him up.  Well, that wasn't happening.  I searched and searched, asked around, and read reviews.  Eventually I found a place that accepted large breed dogs.  It wasn't as gorgeous as the other apartments, but I wasn't worried - I could easily make the new Bruce-friendly place Home.

Is your dog constantly driving you nuts by chewing your shoes, peeing in the house, or barking at the wind?  Train him!  The majority of a dog's behavioral issues can be corrected and prevented with training!  If you can't afford a trainer, You can definitely find great training tips for free on YouTube.

If your lifestyle is too busy because you're a single mom with two young kids, your dog may be your biggest source of peace.  I'm serious!  I'm a single mom of two young boys.  I work full time and when I get home I have plenty of work to do.  But I still manage to make time for my dog.  And you know what?  I love that I have to take him outside because I get to have some fresh air and some time outside.  I am almost forced to stop doing things and just enjoy nature.  I don't spend a long time on walks after work because I'm busy.  But I do slip in five minutes here and there throughout the evening to train my dog.  It's like taking breaks away from chores. 

I know all about being on a budget.  Trust me!  So I make sure to do some dang good cost comparison before deciding on a vet.  Also, humane societies are great at providing care at lower costs.  If your senior dog suffers from arthritis and you can't afford that laser therapy, apply heat compresses to his hips (or wherever he suffers) and give massages.  If you're struggling with dog food, you really can make your own.  Spend some time every Saturday making home made dog food to last the week.  It can be lots of fun if you let it!

Shampooing your dog in hypoallergenic shampoos can help and so can over the counter allergy medication.  Non-drowsy store brand Benadryl can help you deal.  It's not addicting and is not too bad on the wallet.

Contact a rescue group or humane society for tips on how to deal with issues that can be handled or prevented.  There are plenty of people out there who want to help you keep your dog!

But what if I've exhausted everything and really can't keep him?

Sometimes the only option is to give up your dog.  Sometimes you HAVE to.  If this is the case, please ensure you give your dog the best chance at a great future.  Instead of taking your dog to a shelter, try other options first.  Ask coworkers, friends or family if they'd be willing to give your dog a good home.  Do not utilize Craigslist!

Craigslist is a great place to shop for items at a cheaper price, but too many predators are just waiting for you to give them your dog.  Too many dogs end up being flipped or used as bait dogs for dogfighting.  Instead of Craigslist or other online classifieds, contact an animal rescue group.  Better yet, see if you can find one that is dedicated to your dog's breed.  Always seek a no-kill place.

Talk to your veterinarian about your situation-- they know their clients and who might provide a good home.

Always be honest about your dog's history.  This will help the rescue organization or vet find the suitable home. 

Suggested Reading

The Dog Guide - A great training resource!

Bark Busters Dog Training Tips - Free tips from a great training program!

Thank you for reading!

 I write not for myself but for my dog and others like him who

waited behind cage bars for someone to take them

home.

Please send your input to me at Justkeepthedog@gmail.com!

Visit our Facebook page!

Do you make time?

Today's Blurb
We didn't go hiking this weekend.  Boo!!  Afternoon rain showers have really put a damper on things.  Haha, I made a pun.  Also, I worked the past two Sundays, so homework has been needing attention on Saturdays.  Bruce and I have been getting ansy though.  We need to be outside!  There's a nice trail behind my apartments, so I'm thinking we'll be walking those after work this week. 

There's been something on my mind lately and I'm a little nervous to express it.  But I'll do it anyway.  I feel really, really sorry for people who have no time for their dogs.  I go on Craigslist a lot, partly for pet gear and partly for curiosity, and all I see are people rehoming their pets because they "just don't have time" for them.  I won't get into it too much right now, but I will say this:  I love MAKING time for Bruce and The Ferrets.  I'm a single mom.  I work full-time.  I leave my home at 6:30 a.m. and get home at 6:00 p.m.  As soon as I get home, Bruce gets a nice walk, a stretch, and a chance to chase bunnies.  Then there's chores.  The Ferrets are out and terrorizing everyone.  I somehow squeeze in some time to brush Bruce and the kids and I play a few rounds of hunting games with him.  So when I see ads on Craigslist, I feel really bad for people who can't make time for their pets because their lives must be so busy and chaotic!  I'm not trying to be judgmental, I'm really not.  I just feel bad for the pet. 

Anyway, onto other topics.

Bentley's Back

 

That's right, Bentley's back!  I just love this cat.  He's full of character and he's soooo cuddly.  I still couldn't believe he was abandoned by his original owners.  How could anyone do that to their own pet?  Humans.  I swear.  We are the only animal on this earth who choose to take in another animal purely for their entertainment and then neglect or abuse it.  Not all of us do it, but there are so many who do.  Just go onto Craigslist or Google your local animal shelter or humane society.  We suck.  Anyway, back to Bentley. 

 

So every time he's over at my place, his toys get lost or Bruce chews a friggin canned food cover or Tupperware.  So tomorrow I'll be going shopping for cat food (Bruce), toys and a can cover for opened cans.  More to follow on his visit...

 

Not familiar with Bentley? 

Check him out here!

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What's On The News.. Animal News

 

California Court Affirms Proposition 2's Constitutionality

From The Humane Society Of The United States (HSUS)

When I found out how veal calves were treated, I was appalled!  I couldn't believe ... well, okay, I could believe... the way these poor animals were treated.  Did you know that for 16 weeks (their lifespan), calves are kept confined in cages too narrow for them to even turn around?  It is disgusting.  Babies forced to stay in the same position until they are killed for their tender meat. 

 

Thanks to HSUS, though, the Superior Court of California in Fresno County has upheld Proposition 2, which bans the inhumane treatment of farm animals.  Now let's get the rest of the nation on track!

 

World's Ugliest Animal

The Star Nosed Mole was rated The World's Ugliest Animal among several others to include the Blob Fish, the Naked Mole Rat, and the Sphynx.  As much as I love animals, this Star Nosed Mole creeps me out.  I don't want to look at it anymore. 

 

Dog Dies In Hot Car At NY State Fair; Man Charged





From The San Francisco Chronicle

I still can't believe this is happening.  If it's not babies, it's dogs.  Why do people believe they can just leave their kids or dogs in the friggin car??  Recently, I read about a baby dying because of this very thing and of course I read the comments beneath the article.  I couldn't believe the number of people suggesting parents leave their cell phones or purses in the car seat so that they wouldn't forget their baby.  Are you friggin kidding me??  Are cell phones and purses really more important?  And dogs.  People think it's okay to leave their dogs in the car while they're shopping, dining, or even attending a state fair.  When are the laws going to punish people who do this the same as when they leave a kid in the car?  If they could do it to a dog, they could do it to a kid.

 

Dogs On The Web

 

 

Yup.  Dogs and trampolines rock!

 

 

Dogs Eating Ice Cream

You read it correctly.  There are few things more entertaining!  Check out pics of these awesome dogs enjoying what we humans love too.  Here's the kicker:  Frosty Paws is a dog-safe ice cream.  Don't give your dog human-friendly ice cream, it'll mess up their belly!

 

 

 

Thanks for reading Paw Prints. 

Bruce gives me lots of inspiration!

Keep up with us by going to

www.facebook.com/KeepTheDog

 

Feel free to post ideas for the next issue.

Labor Day

So Bentley is back for a week's visit!  Bruce has already pissed him off by stealing his food out of his bowl.  Poor Bentley is sulking in the kids' room while Bruce is sulking after being scolded.  I think, though, that Bruce still thinks he won.

The ferrets are still in their cage this morning because I'm cleaning and I don't need them attacking the vacuum (Squish got her face stuck in the vacuum hose last time she tried to attack it).  They're not very happy right now.  But once the home is cleaned, I'll let them out and they can terrorize the dog and the cat.

Bruce did spend his Labor Day morning harassing the bunnies outside.  The bunnies didn't seem to mind, though.  I think they like driving him crazy by running everywhere... just far enough away where he can't reach.  He's too funny.  At the end of his leash, he just stares at the bunnies.  I can just see it now:

Bunny:  You didn't get me.
Bruce:  Come here and say that.
Bunny: Why?  You on a leash or something?
Bruce:  You're lucky you aren't on a leash too.
Bunny:  Oh!  That's because I'm not a dog!  Hahaha!

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.  Stay safe and don't forget to hydrate your dogs!!

Love,
Me and Bruce