Dig Around the Blog!

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Supporting an Anxious Dog

 Contributed/Collaborated Post:

Much like humans, dogs can also suffer from mental illness issues such as depression and anxiety. It’s unpleasant for them to experience and it can make us worried about our canine friends. However, anxiety affects dogs in many different ways and it can be difficult to pinpoint if the issue is related to anxiety at all. While all dogs are prone to experiencing anxiety, it can actually develop life-long disorders if it’s not dealt with quickly. Dog anxiety can actually cause behavioral issues if left unchecked and should be managed carefully.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/NH1d0xX6Ldk (CC0)

Understanding the causes of anxiety

Humans and dogs often experience anxiety in similar ways. It’s all about understanding the causes of anxiety so that you can avoid them in the first place. In most cases, there are three factors that should be taken into consideration; fear, separation, and aging.

Anxiety from fear relates to unfamiliar noises, people they’ve never met before and new items that you’ve purchased. Your dog might find it really uncomfortable to see a change in their environment. Sometimes this anxiety can pass within a few days or even hours. But sometimes, the new stimulus may negatively affect them for a long time.

Separation can also cause anxiety in your dog. It’s estimated that around 14% of all dogs face some kind of separation anxiety in their life. They often find it difficult to be away from their family members and it can turn into difficult behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing on furniture, or even urinating in the house.

Lastly, aging can actually cause anxiety in older dogs. This is known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome or CDS. Dogs with CDS tend to have poor memory, they have difficulty learning, and they also have poor awareness. This can lead to confusion in older dogs which makes them a lot more anxious in everyday life.

Treating an anxious dog

Once you understand the causes of anxiety in your dog, you can start taking steps to actively prevent them from feeling anxious. However, the best course of action is usually to speak to your veterinarian, especially if the cause is something you can’t change or workaround. They’ll help you diagnose the type of anxiety your dog is suffering from, the most common triggers, and also offer solutions.

In some cases, you may be suggested some kind of medication or alternative treatment such as hemp for pets. These treatments have varying degrees of success and your veterinarian will usually suggest these if they deem it suitable for your dog’s condition. However, if there is a way to help them cure their anxiety without using any medication, that’s often the preferred method.

For instance, they may suggest some form of training or counter-conditioning in response to the causes of your dog’s anxiety. This helps to get rid of the aggressive or undesirable behavior that your dog engages in as a response to their anxiety stimuli. A professional dog trainer may also be able to help solve your dog’s anxiety problems.


Monday, September 28, 2020

4 Ways For Your Dog To Enjoy Fall

 Contributed/Collaborated Post:

We’re all gearing up for all the benefits that fall can bring to our lives. Wrapping up warm, sinking into a quieter state of mind; these are things that anyone who appreciates fall looks forward to the most. If you have a pet dog in your life, then it’s important to take steps to allow them to enjoy the season to the fullest, too! Dogs can enjoy all seasons, but there does seem to be something extra special about the freshness of fall that they love more than other times of the year. Below, we’ll look at some handy tips for making sure that they can love it as much as possible.

Pexels - CC0 Licence


To the Pumpkin Patch

There aren’t too many things that signify the arrival of fall more than a trip to the pumpkin patch. It’s a quintessential activity for the whole family (and also for your dog)! If you’re thinking of taking a trip to the pumpkin patch, take a look at the ones close to your home and find one that allows dogs to visit. Some even host special events and activities just for canines! Your dog will love it.

Long Walks Outdoors

Or what about getting out into the great outdoors? After the heat of summer, fall offers an exceptional opportunity for going on a long walk. You’ll love it (who doesn’t love walks in nature), but it’ll be especially delightful for your canine companion. During the fall, the dampness in the air brings out a whole selection of awesome scents. Think of how beautiful it is to smell those damp leaves! And now remember how much more powerful your dog’s sense of smell is. Plus, they’ll be able to stretch their legs and tire themselves out; a perfect warmup for a cozy night at home. And speaking of which…

Cozy Nights In

One of the best things about fall is all those cozy nights that we get to enjoy as a family. Make sure your dog is involved! Make sure they’re well-fed, they have a comfortable space, and that they’re warm. You can even ramp up the coziness factor by investing in matching dog and family pajamas from LazyOne; they’ll ensure that you and your canine companion are kept nice and toasty (and you’ll also have a great photo opportunity, too). From there, it’s all about putting on a movie and enjoying the night.

Playing in the Leaves

Your dog’s senses can go into overdrive during fall. So why not let them embrace the opportunity? One fun activity that they’ll love is to play in the leaves. You won’t see a dog as happy as when they’re able to run and jump into a big pile of leaves. Some dog owners prevent their pets from doing this, but so long as you know it’s safe, let them jump in. You can always clean them up afterward, and just think about how happy they’ll be! It’s a simple but fun gift you can give to them. 



Saturday, August 1, 2020

BarkBox Review | Barkbox Unboxing | July 2020 | Podium Pups

BarkBox Review | Barkbox Unboxing | July 2020 | Podium Pups


Use promo code “RUCKUSESKIE” to save $15 on BarkBox.com We are affiliates of BarkBox. OR USE THIS LINK HERE: https://barkbox.snlv.net/OLvLz BARKBOX: https://barkbox.snlv.net/OLvLz Thank you so much for watching! Please make sure to LIKE and SHARE this video and subscribe to my channel here for new videos: https://www.youtube.com/user/ruckustheeskie OTHER BARKBOX REVIEWS: http://www.ruckustheeskie.com/p/barkbox.html ----------------------------------------­­­--------------- DOG & LIFESTYLE BLOG → http://www.ruckustheeskie.com ♥INSTAGRAM → http://instagram.com/ruckustheeskie ♥TWITTER → https://twitter.com/ruckustheeskie ♥FACEBOOK →https://www.facebook.com/RuckusTheEskie ♥PINTEREST → https://www.pinterest.com/ruckustheeskie ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ This video may contain affiliate links. We purchase most of the products for the posts ourselves however sometimes we have the opportunity to test and review brand products. Ruckus the Eskie will only share products we trust.

Friday, July 3, 2020

Would I Be A Good Dog Owner?

Contributed/Collaborated Post:

It’s impossible to think of something positive about the global pandemic. However, a lot of households that have gone into lockdown or self-isolation since March have started to reconsider some of their lifestyle routines. The first and most significant event that has driven new decisions is how much staying at home has impacted the environment. More and more people have decided to reduce car rides as much as possible as a result. So, you’ve probably spotted more bicycles in town! And it’s a good thing, as we need to work together to reduce air pollution.

The second consideration for households may be more surprising. A lot of people who have never felt the need for further companionship are now wondering about adopting a dog. Some shelters have experienced an increase in pet adoptions since the beginning of lockdown. If you’re considering having a dog or a pup and you’re unsure whether it is the right decision for your lifestyle or your temperament, there are some things you need to understand. You’re probably familiar with the saying ‘a pet is for life not just for Christmas’. This remains still very accurate. During self-isolation, the idea of having a pet can seem exciting. However, you need to make sure you’ll be able to look after your pet and make them feel loved and cared for even when you’re back to work. Here are some thoughts to help you make an informed decision and figure out whether you’ll be a good dog owner.

Pexels - CC0 License

You have to make time for your pet

Right now, you can spend all day with your dog at home. However, as soon as businesses are ready to open safely and welcome their teams back, you may have to head back to the office. What will happen to your dog while you’re at work? Some options can improve your dog’s day. Most towns have doggy daycare services available so you can make sure your dog is looked after while you’re working. Some employers are also happy to welcome dogs at work, so it might be worth discussing the option with your employers. But at the end of the day, regardless of who is caring for your pet during working hours, you need to be ready to make time for your dog. You should schedule time with your dog every day. 

You love dogs, all sorts of dogs

Historically, people and dogs have built a long relationship, as they evolved together throughout hunts, companionship, and protection services. For a lot of people, loving dogs is written in our DNA. There wouldn’t be such a rich history if dogs weren’t part of it. As a result, it can feel natural to think of dogs as companions, partners, protectors, and loyal friends. But be careful to assess your affection for dogs realistically. As much as you find dogs cute or attaching, you also need to feel comfortable in their presence. If you get nervous when you see larger breeds of dogs or face loud, barking dogs, you may find it hard to manage your dog or walk your dog in dog-crowded areas. 

You’ve already been looking at dogs

While it’s not a sure giveaway of your abilities as a potential dog owner, when you’ve already been researching the best options to adopt a pet, such as falling in love with puppies for sale (https://chocolatelabradorretriever.ca/lab-puppies-for-sale) or getting in touch with shelters, you’re already half committed. Most people who start research about dog adoption tend to also educate themselves on how to look after a pet. They often have a list of the best pet insurance, pet food brands, and pet toys, which they refer to when they’re ready to commit. Ultimately, the bottom line is that if you’ve already done the research, you’re probably ready to become a dog daddy or a dog mummy because you’ve familiarized yourself with the responsibilities, risks, and challenges – and you decided that you still wanted a dog!

You’ve got a huge garden

Your dog needs plenty of exercise during the day, both physical and mental. How much exercise is safe for your dog will depend on their breed, age, and health. But the fact is that dogs shouldn’t stay at home all day. They need to spend time outside, walk, run, and play. If you want to adopt a dog, having a garden is already a considerable advantage, as you can encourage your dog to go outside safety during the day. However, don’t assume that having a garden means you don’t have to take your dog for a walk. You should walk your dog at least once a day if you have a garden – more often otherwise. Walking your dog is an essential bonding exercise between your pet and yourself. It helps to build your relationship. It’s nothing you should ever skip when you adopt a dog! 

You have to act like a ‘parent’

You are not your dog’s parent, and by no means is a dog a replacement for a child. But you need to establish a clear set of rules just as you would with a child. When you create rules, you set your authority, which will define your relationship with your dog. Like with a small child, consistency is key to achieving positive results. You can’t let your pup sit on the sofa because you think it’s cute and forbid them access in later years. 

How would you imagine your ideal holiday?

As soon as it’s safe to travel again, you’ll be ready to visit all the countries on your bucket list. You’ve already planned the perfect program through Europe to visit some of the most famous sites in Italy, France, Germany, the UK, and Spain. It’s going to be a fantastic trip, and you can’t wait for travel restrictions to ease. 

Except that if you’ve got a dog, you can’t exactly take your furry friend with you. Are you willing to compromise and create a new travel plan that would work for both of you? Families who have a dog tend to spend vacations in pet-friendly areas that are easily accessible by car, so you can make the journey more comfortable for your pet. While it doesn't mean you can’t travel abroad, you need to hit the right balance. When you're abroad, someone else will have to look after your dog. Prolonged absences can cause stress and anxiety for your dog. 

You are responsible for the life of another being

Adopting a dog means accepting new responsibilities. Your dog depends on you for all his needs: health, happiness, wellbeing. If you don’t have children, it is likely going to be your first experience with that level of responsibilities. As a dog owner, these will be some of your daily chores: 

  • Ensuring your dog gets food and measuring how much food they should get. Too much or too little could affect your pet’s health. Depending on health or dietary restrictions, you may need special food supplements. 
  • Walking your dog regularly. In some areas, you need to pick up the dog’s poo and put it on the trash, so be sure that you are willing to do that each time you take your dog out. 
  • Grooming and washing your dog frequently, either with the help of a dog spa specialist or by yourself at home. Left ungroomed, some breeds can develop knots and dirty tangles in their fur. 
  • Monitoring your dog’s health, as your dog will have ways of letting you know that something is not right. You don’t want to ignore symptoms and complaints. 
  • Bonding and playing with your pet. 

Pexels - CC0 License

But I already have pets!

Can you become a dog owner when you already have other pets? Many households have cats because, due to their independent nature, cats appear much easier to care for. But you may be concerned about bringing a new furry friend to your home. Contrary to common belief, cat owners can safely adopt a pup or a dog as long as they understand how to introduce the new pet into the household. Start by separating your puppy from your cat(s), leaving a door between them. This will allow both pets to get familiar with the scent of the other while feeling safe. You can also add pheromone products to ease the transition. Gradually, you can introduce face-to-face interactions, keeping your pup on a leash or holding him so your cat can get close without fear. 

I’ve got allergies

Allergies and dogs don’t seem to be a match made in heaven. But many breeds are great for people with allergies. Some dogs are hypoallergenic to some extent, which means that with regular bath and grooming, you can reduce risks.

The Bichon Frise, for instance, is a gentle dog who doesn’t shed. The hair requires regular trimming to stay clean and avoid mats, but it’s a great pet if you’re worried about allergic reactions. 

Loving dogs or wanting to adopt a pup is no guarantee that you will be a good dog owner. As mentioned, a dog means responsibilities. It’s important to understand that you also need to reorganize your lifestyle to accommodate a dog. It can take time to get things in the right place, but there’s nothing wrong with it. Sometimes, it’s best to give yourself a few months or another year to become the best dog owner you can! 


Tuesday, June 23, 2020

BarkBox Review | Barkbox Unboxing | June 2020 | Frenchies in Paris



BarkBox Review | Barkbox Unboxing | June 2020 | Frenchies in Paris

Use promo code “RUCKUSESKIE” to save $15 on BarkBox.com We are affiliates of BarkBox. OR USE THIS LINK HERE: https://barkbox.snlv.net/OLvLz BARKBOX: https://barkbox.snlv.net/OLvLz Thank you so much for watching! Please make sure to LIKE and SHARE this video and subscribe to my channel here for new videos: https://www.youtube.com/user/ruckustheeskie OTHER BARKBOX REVIEWS: http://www.ruckustheeskie.com/p/barkbox.html ----------------------------------------­­­--------------- DOG & LIFESTYLE BLOG → http://www.ruckustheeskie.com ♥INSTAGRAM → http://instagram.com/ruckustheeskie ♥TWITTER → https://twitter.com/ruckustheeskie ♥FACEBOOK →https://www.facebook.com/RuckusTheEskie ♥PINTEREST → https://www.pinterest.com/ruckustheeskie ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ This video may contain affiliate links. We purchase most of the products for the posts ourselves however sometimes we have the opportunity to test and review brand products. Ruckus the Eskie will only share products we trust.