Search

The article discusses the benefits and challenges of raising purebred dogs. The nonprofit Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, California is said to have experts who have tried a rescue-dog program for shelter dogs in response to social pressures but the lack of information within a pedigree has failed the said program. Brent Ruppel, director of canine community programs, states that guide schools prefer breeding dogs with particular temperament and health traits, citing health issues with shelter dogs.

A personal narrative is presented which explores the author's experience of making difficult choices during his Standard Poodle's struggle with acute liver failure.

The article offers information on the dog food selection by famed dog owners, trainers and breeders. Teresa Patton of Fairfax Station, Virginia has reportedly been feeding James, the Springer Spaniel that won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2007, with Fromm Grain-Free Surf and Turf. Dog trainer Diane Bauman of Sussex, New Jersey, on the other, has been feeding her dogs with Eagle Pack dry food. While Timothy Morrow of Springfield, Massachusetts feeds his German Shepherd Hammer with Eukanuba Adult Premium Performance Formula.

The article discusses ways of caring for old or geriatric dogs. Maintaining a dog's vitality during its later years requires a good attitude, says the author. The work of a veterinarian includes psychology as well because people want the bond with their dogs to last, according to veterinarian Marge McMillan. McMillan recommends that older dogs should be given their regular walks for physical health. Animal rehabilitation therapy is employed in treating dogs with arthritis.

This article talks about the breeding programs of guide schools for guide-dogs. Breeding colonies are used by guide schools to control what happens with their dogs from one generation to the next. According to Gwen Gillispie of Southeastern Guide Dogs, schools know how to mix and match parents to get the traits they need. Trainability and hip quality are the main focus of breeding efforts at The Seeing Eye, said geneticist Eldin Leighton. The various personalities of guide dogs enable schools to better match dogs with specific people.

The article focuses on the holistic approach to veterinary medicine. Holistic veterinarians acquire knowledge on holistic modalities including acupuncture, chiropractic and the use of herbs after completing traditional education. Alternative medicine professor Narda Robinson believes on the integration of holistic method to veterinary practice. Veterinary orthopedic manipulation is another technique used by Lisa Lancaster, a holistic veterinarian in Denver, Colorado.

The article offers information on veterinary research concerning canine genetics. It discusses the importance of collaborating with health organizations to address diseases affecting multiple breeds. It also provides information on various dynamic interbreed partnerships and how breeders can become involved.

The article discusses the study of sled dogs, which is believed to help contribute to advances in dog medicine. The event in the north called the Iditarod, a race that commemorates the Great Serum Run, caught the attention of scientists, wondering what gives sled dogs the stamina to race with such energy and enthusiasm for 1,100 miles in such harsh conditions. Scientists found a combination of medications that reduce the number of gastric ulcers among dogs particularly those who participate in the race.

The articles considers the challenges of dog breeding for dog owners. Apart from the financial considerations, dog breeding is a challenging task because it is time consuming. Some dog breeders are motivated by breeding champions, while others are motivated by just achieving the improvements they set out to do. Breeder Catherine Nelson believes that it is the responsibility of breeders to educate owners on how to properly care for their dogs and become good owners.

The article features several dog breeders in the U.S. According to breeder Leslie Ann Engen, its a breeder's responsibility to really learn the breed and produce puppies that represent the very best qualities. Breeder Maggie Bryson says its better for breeders to be prepared and honest about their dog before they seek to begin breeding. Leneia Rogowski owned dogs for about three years before breeding her first litter.

The article shares the instructive experiences, insights, frustrations and honest mistakes made by dog owners who made the transition to dog breeders. To be a breeder, loving dogs is an obvious requirement. According to Fran Sloughfy who breeds Irish Setters, selling dogs is what she worries about most. Breeder Karen Lacy explains why it is so challenging to deal with buyers.

The article discusses the highlights of the 2008 annual meeting of the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) which was held in Denver, Colorado. Walt Disney Co. is one of the companies that help MAF in providing financial support to veterinary research. The scientific advisors of MAF have proposed during the meeting to increase research on behavioral issues since they are said to be the leading cause of death in young dogs. Patricia Olson of MAF has offered information on the Cure Canine Research campaign.