Beagle Frenzy.com

Meet Penny, the newest addition to Oscar’s family!  She was found on the side of a busy road, guarding her buddy, a boy beagle.  He had just been hit by a car and was laying on the side of the road as the callous driver drove off without a second thought to the hurt puppy.  Police and animal control officers were called to the scene and they were both brought to the hospital.  There were attempts to find their owners but the tags did not have working phone numbers and neither beagle was microchipped.  Unfortunately, the boy beagle was hurt too badly.  Both his hips had been broken and he was bleeding profusely from the mouth and he had to be put to sleep.  After a bath and a vet examination, we discovered that Penny had a severe ear and eye infection, numerous cuts and scrapes and thorns all over her body.  Who knows how long they were both out in the cold winter trying to fend for themselves.  We took Penny in and gave her a loving home (and a great playmate!).  It took a couple of weeks of medicine and vet visits but she is now completely healthy and recovering from her recent spaying.  The majority of her cuts have healed and while we still discover thorns on her every now and then, we believe that the majority of them have been removed (but we still keep checking every night).  Penny is a very happy-go-lucky pup and loves to give kisses to anyone and everyone, especially to her brother.  And while Oscar may not be overly enthusiastic about sharing his toys (and food!) with his new sister, we’re absolutely certain that he loves having  her around.

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It’s January and it’s freezing cold.  You look outside and all you see is white snow everywhere.  Winter is officially here.  In addition to the headaches of shoveling and cleaning off your cars and sidewalks, you also have to pay special attention to your dog’s paws.  They are unprotected and subjected to the harsh elements of the winter; everything from snow and ice to toxic materials like rock salt.  During these months, owners should take a little extra time for paw care in order to minimize any problems such as sore and cracked toe pads which can lead to painful blisters and infections.

One of the main culprits is rock salt.  Most people are grateful for rock salt; it de-ices the sidewalk and provides traction so that you don’t slip and take a tumble.  However, rock salt (and other ice melts) often contains chemicals such as sodium chloride, calcium magnesium acetate and calcium carbonate.  These chemicals are dangerous to pets and children.  Think of the damage that rock salt causes to the undercarriage of a car – it leaves scratches and can damage and discolor the paint.  Now imagine those kinds of chemicals on your dog’s paws.  Or even worse, what can happen if they ingest it while licking their paws clean.

If you’re a homeowner who needs to clear off their sidewalks, there are other alternatives to rock salt.  Sand, and even kitty litter, can provide just as much traction on slippery ice but without the harmful effects to pets, children and the environment.  In addition, most pet stores sell Safe Paw Ice Melter.  This product is 100% salt free and environmentally safe and can be used around children and pets.  Plus, it has been shown to melt the ice more effectively than rock salt.  However, we cannot control what is used on all sidewalks.  Therefore, another option for pet owners is to purchase some dog booties for outdoor walks.  There are many different kinds and styles of booties to choose from and they protect your dog’s paws completely from the winter elements.

For those owners who do not want to go to such great lengths, there are some simple grooming steps you can take to protect your dog’s paws.  Keep your dog’s nails clipped and trim the fur in between the toe pads.  Nails that are too long causes your dog’s toes to be separated while walking thus allowing more ice, snow and grit to get in the crevices.  In addition, snow and ice can cling to the long fur between the toes and create little compacted ice cubes between the toes.  This can cause irritation and can be very painful while walking.

Upon returning home from outdoors, make sure to rinse or at least wipe down your dog’s paws to remove any rock salt or other harmful chemicals.  I keep a container of baby wipes right by the front door.  They are gentle enough to use on paws and can easily clean off any chemicals or dirt.  You should also inspect their paws and looks for signs of any cracked skin or inflammation.  A thin coat of petroleum jelly on the paws can soothe any dry and irritated skin; plus add an extra layer of protection.

Patty Uncategorized beagle, paw care, paws, puppies, rock salt, winter

Dear Santa,

Mommy says that you are coming for a visit soon and will have presents for me, but only if I behave.  I just want you to know that I am trying very hard and I think that I have been a very good dog this year.  I just want to clear up some misunderstandings.  I didn’t mean to chew up Mommy’s new slippers.  They were just so soft and fuzzy; I thought they were a new toy for me.  And that incident where I ate the chicken, well, that just wasn’t my fault.  I thought Grandpa was challenging me to see how smart I was.  I saw him put the chair and the box to block the entrance to the kitchen and I knew he was just testing me to see if I could figure out a way in.  And I did!  I’m a smart dog!  And when I got into the kitchen, the smell of the chicken was so tantalizing and it was right there on the table so I knew it was my prize for figuring out how to move the box and chair aside with my paw.  How was I supposed to know it wasn’t for me?  Why would Grandpa put it there then?  And I know that I’m not supposed to knock over my food bowl.  But I just love kicking the food and then chasing it down before I chomp on it.  It reminds me of hunting.  Although I’ve never been hunting before, but I guess it’s in my genes or something.  I really am a good dog, I swear!  And I would love it if you could bring me some presents.  I would like some new toys and some yummy treats.  Oh, and can you please ask Mommy not to put that Santa hat on me again (no offense)?  The other dogs are making fun of me. 

Thanks!

Your friend, Oscar

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I went to the park today, my favorite park where I get to run around and around.  I saw my friends there that I haven’t seen in awhile.  I went over to say hi to Jack, the Weimaraner.  He barked really loud and snapped at me!  I guess I was too close to his chewing stick.  He’s pretty protective of that chewing toy of his.  Jack is about 5 times my size so I just backed away slooowly.  Then I saw my favorite running buddy Oona, the boxer puppy!  I love running with her, she doesn’t get tired like the other dogs and I can practice my rollover move in the dirt.  Mommy doesn’t like it when I do that; she’s always screaming something about needing a B-A-T-H after I do that.  She thinks I don’t know what B-A-T-H means, but I do.  (Same as how I know what V-E-T is).  I don’t like either of those.  Sniff, sniff….hey, is that a squirrel??  Gotta go!!  Until next time….AROOOOOOOOOOOO!!

admin Uncategorized beagle, Beagle puppies

Ever come home and find a mess that was clearly signs that your best friend destroyed the house? If so, I’m sure you’re looking for a realistic solution like I was in the beginning. I have come home countless times to find shoes, clothes, chairs, and anything else you could think about torn apart. 

There is a light at the end of the tunnel, just remember every bad habit can be stopped with the right discipline and training on both parts. First, we need to understand the reasons behind the destructive behavior at home. Most people believe it’s because of boredom. Lets face it, a bored dog is a destructive one. Questions you should have asked yourself before getting a dog was how often will someone be home? How often would he be locked up during the day? You must keep in mind that once a dog is free from being locked up all day he’s going to burn off that energy one way or another.

One good option but not always feasible is getting a playmate for your dog. Dogs are pack animals and will keep each other entertained if they are together. However, that could backfire if you’re careless yourself and still continue down the path of not being engaged in your dogs life. Nothing is worst than coming home and finding your apartment torn by two dogs as appose to one.

One major success I had with keeping my Beagle busy was with toys. Since Beagles are hound dogs I would purchase scented toys and have him find them in the backyard or around the house. We will play fetch with it and right when he was at the height of playing with it I would hide it and ask him to find the toy. Once he found the toy I would give him a treat and use a code word like “where’s the toy!”

So it became instinctual when I said those words he would begin looking for his toy and the game of hide and fetch was in progress. At the end of the day I wouldn’t have to say anything and he’ll retreat to his crate for the day from exhaustion.

mesen Uncategorized bealges, dog behavior, toys, training

FAQ – Beagles and Children

Are Beagles good dogs to have in a household with small children?
In most cases, yes absolutely. Beagles are friendly, non-aggressive dogs who have a high tolerance for children and their rambunctious behavior. They are known for their need for social interactions and children (with their boundless energies) are the perfect playmate for your Beagle. Your Beagle and children will be able to enjoy endless hours of playing catch or running in the yard together. And, once tired, Beagles are more than content to simply relax on the couch and watch TV.

That being said, there are some things that need to be taken into consideration. A Beagle is an active, curious dog who craves attention and interaction. Before you decide to bring a Beagle into your household, make sure that you will be able to handle juggling the demands of both your young children and your Beagle. Beagles, especially when they are puppies, cannot contain themselves once they get excited. They may playfully nip or jump on you. If you have children who are not yet steady on their feet, precautions should be made to ensure that your Beagle doesn’t knock over your toddler.

In addition, children should be taught to respect the Beagle and their food. Beagles take food very seriously and may defend their food if children try to take it away from them. Conversely, any food in your child’s hands is fair game to your Beagle. Your child may not be quick enough (or tall enough) to keep their food away from your Beagle. Be especially careful if feeding your children food that can be fatal to dogs (see our earlier article). With the proper training and socialization, Beagles can be the perfect companion for children and as they grow up together, become the best of friends.

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Patty Uncategorized Beagles & children, children, dogs

Keeping your dog healthy goes way beyond scheduled vet visits and annual rabies shots.  Sadly enough, most of us believe this is the only correct way to take care of our dogs.  Although it’s necessary to have doctor visits, in reality, it begins with the day-to-day care of your dog.  There are many reasons I can talk about why it’s economically better to maintain your dogs health day-to-day but in the end it just leads to a better healthier life for everyone.

Veterinarians play an important role and serves as an intricate part in our dog’s life; not to mention the sacrifice they went through to obtain their degree in veterinarian care. However, we as owners play an important part as well because without the day-to-day care, pet visits will mean no more than paying high vet bills.  Making sure your Beagle gets a well balanced diet is essential.  I often hear of friends who feed their Beagles table food all the time and when dealing with dogs (especially Beagles), we need to monitor exactly what’s being given as food.

Since Beagles have a tendency to eat any and everything, we need to be conscious of their intake of the proper foods.  I usually mix a little table food with dry food.  Also, always make sure your Beagle gets fresh water.  You never know what can be lurking in stale water that’s been left out all day.  We did an article on Heartworms a while ago which is very serious to our dogs’ health.

Exercise is another important factor in maintaining a healthy dog.  I usually spend at least an hour a day making sure Oscar our beagle runs up and down the yard fetching his ball.  It helps with maintaining good health, plus a tired dog is a good dog. If you have more pointers on having a healthy Beagle please log into our forum.

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mesen Uncategorized Beagles, dogs, health, heart worms, vet

Beaglefrenzy.com wants to wish Oscar a Happy Birthday on his 1st birthday.

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Having your Beagle safely restrained in the car protects both you and your Beagle.  There have been many horror stories of owners who turn around for just a second to check on their dog only to turn back around to see that the car in front of them has stopped suddenly.  You as the driver can get easily distracted if you are constantly worrying about your Beagle and turning around to check on them.  In addition, your Beagle can be severely hurt in a crash if he is let loose in the car.  Or what about if you need to slam on the brakes?  An unrestrained 60 pound dog can become a harmful projectile with a force of 1,200 pounds during a 30 mph collision (and most of us are usually driving faster than that).  Your Beagle now becomes a very fast moving object that’s headed for the windshield.  He could also end up striking you or your occupants.

Another reason to keep your Beagle restrained is that in the event of a crash, even if your Beagle is uninjured, if he is loose and the door or window flies open, he can run away (or worse, into traffic).  Therefore, it is very important to always make sure your Beagle has all his tags and your information on him just in case.

Another tip on keeping your friend safe is to not let him stick his head out of the window.  Granted, they love doing it, they love to see all the action going on and smell all the different scents as you go driving by.  However, small stones and debris that gets kicked up into the air can become very dangerous at high speeds.

And finally, never leave your Beagle in the car in warm or hot weather.  Even if the windows are partially opened and you are not in direct sunlight, the interior temperatures of a car can quickly rise to fatal levels.

Patty Uncategorized Beagle puppies, Beagles, car safety, dogs, pets

As a nation of dog lovers, our Beagles have evolved from being just pets to being a member of the family.  And as such, they travel with us everywhere we go, whether it be to the grocery store, to the park, even on vacations.  However, before you just open the door and let your Beagle jump in, there are some simple precautions you must take. 

A car trip can be stressful and unsafe for your Beagle (and for you!) if he is unprepared for the trip.  For Beagles who are not used to being in a car, some dry runs can help acclimate him to the environment.  Start with just sitting in the car while it is parked and let him roam around and sniff his surroundings.  Then take some short trips around the block.  Gradually increase the amount of time spent in the car until your Beagle is used to the motion and sounds so that he does not become scared.  You should also monitor the amount of food you give your Beagle before he gets in the car.  If he is already nervous to begin with, the car ride may cause him to have an upset stomach.

Always remember to keep your Beagle restrained while in the car.  You can either use a travel carrier or a seat belt harness.  A carrier may be a better option for the more timid Beagle.  For Beagles who are not too fond of car rides, a carrier feels safer to them since it is an enclosed area.  You can also place a favorite blanket or toy in the carrier with them so that they feel more comfortable.  The carrier should either be strapped in or wedged in so that it doesn’t slide around in the car. 

For the Beagle who likes to see what is going on, a seat belt harness would work better.  They can sit back and see all the sights and sounds while still being safely restrained.  These can be purchased at any local pet store.  Generally, it is a harness that is fitted around your Beagle’s chest and then secured to your car’s seat belt.  For the smaller breeds, there is a type of booster seat with a harness that holds your dog higher up on the chair so that they can still see out of the window.  Our Beagle generally likes to lie down and sleep during car rides so the carrier is the perfect option for him.

Stay tuned for more car safety info….

Patty Uncategorized animal safety, beagle, car, car safety, dogs, pets, puppies