Special Edition - Royal Mail Dog Stamp

A series of Special Edition stamps was launched to celebrate the roles performed by working dogs in the UK.

Tips for Bringing Home a Puppy

PRLog (Press Release) – More than a million puppies will be given as gifts this holiday season. To help new pet parents prepare, Bark Busters, the world’s largest dog training company, has compiled a series of essential tips based on the experience of the company’s worldwide network of dog behavioral therapists.

“The love and laughter that comes with a new puppy epitomizes the joy of dog ownership,” says Liam Crowe, CEO of Bark Busters USA and master dog behavioral therapist. “But while puppies are cute and cuddly, accepting the role of guardian for a new pup comes with significant responsibilities. Be certain that you or the recipient is ready for such a commitment.”

Tips for the New Arrival
Before you bring home your puppy, have these supplies on hand:

• A crate is an invaluable tool when housebreaking a puppy. It also provides your young dog with a sense of security when you are busy or away. However, never leave a puppy in a crate for longer than 4-5 hours.
• Bedding should be thick enough for comfort and sized appropriately for the breed. Be aware that some puppies that are left unattended for too long may chew their bedding.
• Baby gates serve as a great training tool in that they can be used to block off “restricted” areas of the house and help to teach your puppy what areas are off limits.
• Dog-appropriate toys, like the puppy-sized Kong™, are the smart choice. Although children’s toys look cute, they can prove hazardous. Never use old clothing or shoes as toys; a puppy cannot differentiate between your old and newly bought items. Stick with size-appropriate toys for your breed. Always supervise your puppy when he is playing with toys that contain squeakers as they can be a choking hazard.
• Two dog bowls: one for fresh water and one for quality dog food. Consult your veterinarian for food recommendations.
• A well-fitted collar and leash are a must for training and safety during outdoor excursions. Avoid chain leashes; a soft cotton leash is a better alternative.
• A pet ID tag allows your puppy to find his way home should he roam. You may also want to microchip your puppy at your next vet visit.
• Brushes and dog shampoo will eventually be needed for every breed.
• An odor and stain eliminator is a cleaner you will want on hand for those inevitable housebreaking accidents.
• A veterinarian should be researched and chosen beforehand. You will want a contact should an emergency arise. Introduce your new puppy early to the vet and learn what vaccinations he will need.

Dog And Child

Choosing a Dog For Your Child

Not only are dogs loyal, empathetic and wonderful companions but they also teach your child responsibility and administer huge doses of unconditional love. Children and dogs seem to naturally fit together and can often form a lifelong bond that is even stronger than one might imagine. It can be extremely hard to choose the right dog for your child as there are so many different breeds and temperaments to choose from. Most of us simply go to the pet store and choose the cutest "doggie in the window" which may not be the best option.

1. Understand that owning a dog is a huge emotional and financial responsibility. Dogs require a lot of care and although your child will likely assist, it will ultimately be up to you (the parent) to properly care for the new canine family member. So, be prepared to handle the majority of your new dog’s care.

2. Conduct an online research dog breeds or ask your local veterinarian or shelter for recommendations. It is extremely important to involve your child in the selection process. Make choosing a dog family affair and all family members should research dog breeds and or temperamental traits.

3. Make sure that the dog's temperament matches your child's temperament. For instance if you have a rambunctious child, you should never pair him with a shy dog. On the same token, you should never pair a shy child with an aggressive dog. By carefully matching temperaments, you set the stage for a positive human/canine relationship to develop without strife or strain.

4. Ensure that the dog that you selected does not have aggressive tendencies.

5. Let your child interact with the dog and see how the chosen dog might respond.

6. Encourage your child to respect all dogs at all times.

7. You should teach your child that dogs have a natural tendency to bite when startled or frightened. Teach them not to play tug-o-war or other aggressive games with a dog. Also, teach your child never to bother a dog when the dog is eating.

Tips to choose dog pet names

1. Keep the pet name very short, one or two syllable if possible, so it is easier for the puppy to recognize it.

2.Choose a name you can easily call out. Some people like to name their pets related to people who they like or dislike. This sometimes can be very embarrassing.

3.Keep it to one or two syllables. Dogs not only learn it quicker, but it makes them easier to train as well.

4.Pick a name that matches your dogs appearance or personality.

5.Avoid names that sound like common commands such as Go, Stay, Sit, etc. This might cause confusion for your puppy when trying to train it.