Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown
The post Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown by Emily Muller appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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We give Pebblebee Trackers an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Being a pet owner is no small feat. As much as you love your best bud, they can give you a run for your money, especially if they’re a runner or an escape artist. After all, there are few worse feelings than losing your four-legged soulmate, and few better feelings than knowing where they are at all times.
If you’ve experienced the dread of losing your pet (even for a few minutes), you might’ve considered getting a tracking device like the ones developed by Pebblebee. Pebblebee is an innovative company that makes tracking devices to help you find items that commonly go missing. While their products are often used to locate stationery items, like keys and wallets, they can also be used to keep an eye on four-legged family members and track their location.
I tested out Pebblebee’s products for my dog, Micah, and they’ve been handy gadgets to have. Not only do they provide real-time data about Micah’s location but they emit a tone to help me find him if he goes out of sight. If you’re looking for a reliable way to track your pet, Pebblebee’s trackers are a great option.
At a Glance: What We Received
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall 
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Pebblebee Clip |
Easy to use Keychain attachment Built-in speaker |
CHECK PRICE |
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Pebblebee Tag |
Small Lightweight Water-resistant |
CHECK PRICE |
|
 |
Pebblebee Card |
Thin Convenient Rechargeable |
CHECK PRICE |
About Pebblebee
What Is Pebblebee?
Pebblebee is a tech company that makes tracking devices for personal items, like wallets, backpacks, and phones. The idea for the company was born in 2012 when a toddler’s knack for hiding important items inspired these aerospace engineers to create an easy way to find them. After a year of developing and testing their products, Pebblebee was founded with the mission to “Track What Matters Most”.
Since their founding in 2013, Pebblebee has created several user-friendly smart trackers to help you locate your missing items, including the Pebblebee Clip, Tag, and Card. Whether you’ve lost your car keys, your wallet, or your four-legged friend, Pebblebee helps you stay connected to the important things in life.
Who are Pebblebee’s Trackers Best Suited For?
The devices are perfect for anyone who wants to track their furry friend’s whereabouts and are ideal if your dog has a habit of escaping your yard or bolting out your front door. Even if your pet is extremely well-behaved, these are great to use if you want to keep an eye on your pup and have peace of mind that they’re safe.
Key Features
Dogs love having the freedom to explore, but letting them off-leash can come at a price if they wander too far. With Pebblebee’s trackers, you keep an eye on your pet from your phone and initiate an alert melody to help you find them if they go missing.
How it Works
All three devices function the same way–they’re rechargeable trackers that attach to whatever item you want to track and have recall features to help you locate the item if it goes missing. For pets, the trackers can easily be clipped onto their collar or slipped into your dog’s go-bag during travel.
To use the tracker, download Pebblebee’s app and follow the in-app directions to create an account. After you log in, you’ll be prompted to add a device. To do so, place your phone near the tracker and click the Pebblebee logo button on the tracker twice. The device will beep, which lets you know it has been activated.
At this point, you can complete the setup process through the Pebblebee app or hop over to the Apple Find My app or Google Find My Device app to finish adding the device to your phone. From there, you can track your pet’s location and use the alert features if needed.
Tracking App
There are a few ways you can track your pet depending on your network and personal preference, including:
- Pebblebee app (iOS and Android)
- Apple Find My app (iOS)
- Google Find My Device app (Android)
All three apps show a map of the tracker’s location and have several settings you can personalize based on your preferences. A few of these settings include sharing your pet’s location with a family member or friend and turning on notifications to alert you when the device is found. If your furry friend does go missing, you can use your phone to initiate a loud beep to help you find them or get directions to your pet’s location based on where the device is pinging.
As an iOS user, I used Apple Find My for all three devices, and it worked great!
Contents
The following is included in each box:
| Pebblebee Clip: |
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| Pebblebee Tag: |
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| Pebblebee Card: |
|
Shipping and Returns
All orders are processed within 1-2 business days. How fast your order arrives depends on where you live.
Returns are accepted within 15 days of the delivery date and you are responsible for return shipping costs and a 20% repackaging and restocking fee.
Our Reviews of the Pebblebee Products We Received
1. Pebblebee Clip
The Pebblebee Clip has a circular design with a built-in hole at the top and comes with a carabiner-like ring for easy attachment. The hole is perfect for looping onto a traditional key ring and the carabiner is great for securing onto your dog’s collar. It also comes with a green LED light that lights up around the edge of the device when you charge it or pair it with your phone.
Since the Clip is Pebblebee’s only product that comes with a keyring attachment, it’s one of the easiest to secure onto your pet. Because of this, it was my favorite device to use with Micah. Micah is a 54 lb Standard Goldendoodle and didn’t seem to mind wearing the tracker on his collar. However, it is bigger than traditional pet ID tags and might be a bit cumbersome for small pets.
The Pebblebee Clip costs $29.99 for iOS and Android.
- Rechargeable
- 12-month battery life
- Snap-on keyring
- Lightweight
- Innovative design
- 500ft Bluetooth range
2. Pebblebee Tag
The Tag is Pebblebee’s smallest and most discrete device. It’s designed to stick onto items like remotes and slip into compact areas like a coat pocket. Because of its size, it’s perfect for attaching to small dogs and cats without being bulky. Since it’s Pebblebee’s only product to come with a silicone strap and double-sided adhesive tape, you can attach it to almost anything (pet collar, pet travel bag, dog backpack, etc.). It looks sleek too, which is a nice bonus!
The tag was my second favorite because of how small and compact it is. The silicone strap looks nice on a dog collar, and the device is super lightweight. The only downside is the silicone strap doesn’t fit well on large dog collars. I had to find one of Micah’s thinnest collars to slide it onto, and even then, it was a tight fit. That said, I could see this being a favorite for anyone with small pets.
The Tag costs $29.99 for iOS and $34.99 for Android.
- Track location
- Loud melody
- Emits LED light
- 8-month battery life
- Compact
- 300ft Bluetooth range
3. Pebblebee Card
This is Pebblebee’s largest tracker and is designed to fit in narrow spaces like wallets, pockets, and bags. It comes with a magnetic charger and has LED lights on the front that light up when you pair it to your phone or charge it. Out of the three devices, the Card has the longest battery life (up to a year and a half on a single charge), which is impressive, especially since other trackers only last a few days.
While this isn’t the easiest device to attach to your pet, it’s the perfect tracker to keep in your dog’s travel bag or slip into a backpack when you’re on the go. I like putting the Card in Micah’s travel bag when I take him on road trips.
The Pebblebee Card costs $29.99 for iOS and $34.99 for Android.
- Slim design
- iOS and Android compatible
- 18-month battery life
- No subscription needed
- One year warranty
- Doesn’t easily attach to pet
Our Experience With Pebblebee
I have a Goldendoodle named Micah who loves to hike and go on solo adventures in my backyard (I live on several acres). Even though he’s great about checking in with me, he can disappear pretty fast. After hearing about Pebblebee, I was curious to see how their trackers would work in helping me keep an eye on him.
I tried out the Pebblebee Clip, Tag, and Card, and all were amazing in their own way. They were easy to connect to my phone, and it only took a few minutes before all three were up and running.
The Pebblebee Clip was the first tracker I tried and it ended up being my favorite. It was the easiest one for me to use since I could easily clip it onto Micah’s collar before going outside (the snap-on keyring was one of my favorite features!). I also love that it resembles an ID tag since it blends in with Micah’s tags and looks classy on his collar.
Next, I tried the Pebblebee Tag. This is by far the most versatile tracker due to its small, compact size. Since it comes with adhesive tape and a silicone strap, it can be attached to just about anything you think of and is perfect for sliding onto a pet collar. The only drawback is the strap is too small to fit on thick collars. I was able to fit it onto Micah’s 1” collar (very snugly), but anything bigger than that would be too big. Small dogs and cats shouldn’t have a problem though!
Last, I tried the Pebblebee Card. I love slipping the Card into Micah’s travel bag for road trips. This isn’t one I would attach to Micah since there’s not a great way to clip it on him, but it’s a great option to throw in any bag carrying your dog’s travel gear or pet essentials.
When the trackers arrived, I initially planned to use them as a safeguard while hiking or traveling. But honestly, these are great gadgets to use every day. The devices are reliable, lightweight, and low maintenance, and they have a long battery life (8-18 months depending on the device, which honestly blew my mind).
The app works great too. As an iPhone user, I like that Pebblebee works with the Apple Find My app. Through Apple Find My, I could track Micah’s location, set off a loud buzzer to find him, or get directions to his location if he wandered too far.
When looking at cost, the devices range from $29.99 to $34.99 and are competitively priced compared to similar tech gadgets. They don’t require a subscription to use either, so you’re not locked into an ongoing expense, which is fantastic.
Overall, I love having a way to check in on Micah’s whereabouts, and it gives me peace of mind to know his location if he goes out of sight.
Conclusion
Pebblebee’s mission is to help people stay connected to what matters most, and that’s exactly what Pebblebee’s tracking devices allow you to do. The Tag and Clip are small enough to attach to your dog’s collar and the Card is perfect for slipping into a bag of pet essentials. You can track all the devices from your phone, and initiate a sound and light to help you locate your furry friend if they go missing. I love having a way to track Micah and nothing beats the peace of mind it gives me to know where he is and that he’s safe.
The post Pebblebee Tracking Device Reviews2 2024: An Expert’s Breakdown by Emily Muller appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation
The post What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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If you have a child right now, you will know all about Bluey! It’s all the craze these days, competing with predecessors like Blue’s Clues and Dora the Explorer.
If you’ve watched it with your children, you may be able to pinpoint that Bluey and Bingo are Australian Cattle Dogs. But how about the other dogs, like Mackenzie? What kind of dog is Mackenzie? We have all the information you could want about Mackenzie’s breed!
What Dog Breed Is Mackenzie?
Mackenzie is a Border Collie. Mackenzie came in with the originals, first appearing in Season 1 of Bluey on the episode “Fruitbat”. This little boy dog moved to Australia from New Zealand. Mackenzie is a straightforward little dog that loves herding and jumping.
Very popular in Australia, the Border Collie is often used in competition and show to herd sheep and do a variety of other agility related tasks. The Border Collie is considered to be the smartest of all dog breeds and is highly revered for their keen intelligence and ultra awareness. In the show, Mackenzie is a fun-loving little dog with high energy.
Much to their breed design, the Border Collie is also very high in energy and ready to learn the next new thing.
Let’s Learn About Border Collies
Since we already know quite a bit about Mackenzie from Bluey, let’s learn a little bit more about the Border Collie breed itself.
After all, it’s exciting to see a fictional dog and think that it would be a perfect addition to your family, without realizing the overall intensity of owning the breed.
Border Collie Pups
Border Collie puppies will be extremely all over the place and eager to explore! These dogs have a thirst for knowledge and will bounce around from every stimulating scene to the other. These dogs will be very fast to learn, so don’t be afraid to teach them very early on. They will master concepts like potty training and basic commands in just a few short months, impressing you every day with their keen intelligence.
It is always best to find a reputable breeder. This ensures that your dog comes from a good bloodline with solid genetics. Steer clear of backyard breeding operations and puppy mills. Make sure that anyone you purchase a dog from is knowledgeable about the breed and has given the dog the proper vetting and care prior to you bringing the dog home.
Border Collie Physical Characteristics
Border Collies are very agile, medium size dogs with sturdy bodies. These dogs are masters at agility, touting lean muscles and quick speeds.
They can come in a variety of colors. The most popular look for a Border Collie is black and white. They tend to have medium to long flowing coats.
Border Collie Personality
Border Collies are very adventurous, eager to please, affectionate, and curious. They are ready to take the world by storm. Border Collies absolutely love running around and would benefit from a fenced in backyard. Keep in mind that these dogs are herding dogs. They have a tendency to herd other animals and even small children. For this reason, we recommend them for children, age, 6 and older.
The Border Collie is revered again and again for their intense intelligence. These dogs can pick up just about any concept anyone is willing to teach them. They are thirsty for new information and will soak it in every chance they get.
If a Border Collie is well-socialized and active, they will likely be very mannerly dogs. However, if you don’t work with your Collie the way you should and they have a lot of downtime with nothing going on, they might develop separation anxiety and anxious tendencies.
The Border Collie works best in homes with lots of space to roam and many exciting activities happening in a day. The Border Collie is not for families who are gone most of the time or have very limited time to commit to training or exercise.
Border Collie Diet
Border Collies burn quite a few calories in a day. For this reason, it’s incredibly important to give them a high calorie, protein-dense recipe that will replenish what they lose in a day. Wet canned food and dry kibble are still viable options.
However, we highly recommend reading ingredients labels to ensure quality so they get the best diet possible. You can always go for fresh, raw, or homemade meals, permitting you clear it with your veterinarian first.
Border Collie Exercise
The Border Collie needs plenty of exercise! These exercise-intensive dogs love nothing more than their time out of the house. They will accompany you on car rides, hiking adventures, vacations, and dog park visits.
On average, these dogs can sometimes require up to 2 hours of exercise in a day. Be sure you’re the kind of person who likes to be on the go enough to keep up. Otherwise, it’s incredibly important to give them a large fenced-in area where they can explore.
Since Border Collies are so agile and active, they can easily jump fences and dig under enclosures. Always secure the area—especially for untrained dogs.
Border Collie Training
A Border Collie will benefit very much from training. They will soak it up, enjoying each moment spent with their person. A Border Collie can pick up just about any concept or willing to teach them, but they do require a lot of experience.
These dogs might not be the best choices for novice owners due to their exercise and mental stimulation needs. Sometimes, because of the dog’s training needs, many owners elect the help of a professional. Professional trainer rates may vary and training techniques will be different from person to person.
Border Collie Health
The Border Collie was bred to be a very healthy dog. They are definitely hardy and quick to heal, so if you are looking for the chance of having lower-cost vet bills, they might be a fabulous choice.
However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that that will be the case with every dog. They are susceptible to several environmental and congenital disorders and illnesses. Here are some of the most common:
- Hip dysplasia
- Obesity
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid issues
The key to ensuring your Border Collie has the best health is to take them to their annual vet checkups. If anything starts to develop, your vet can get ahead of it. Plus, if you have their health monitored, you can change their diet and exercise plan around accordingly.
Conclusion
Now you understand that Mackenzie is a Border Collie. If you love McKenzie, you now understand more about his overall breed, and you can probably pinpoint whether or not you’d like to have one for yourself.
Border Collies are just most assuredly not for everyone. However, many folks can find room in their hearts for this loyal, athletic breed.
Featured Image Credit: Property of Bluey Wiki. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.
The post What Kind of Dog Is Mackenzie from Bluey? Breed Facts & Explanation by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
SAVING LIVES NATIONWIDE IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANGEL
The post SAVING LIVES NATIONWIDE IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANGEL appeared first on Stand Up For Pits Foundation.
Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History
The post Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History by Grant Piper appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is one of the rarest and most mysterious dog breeds. They only sport hair on the top of their head and the very tip of their tails. Some Abyssinian Sand Terriers are completely hairless. That makes them highly unique. They are also incredibly rare. Abyssinian Sand Terriers have not been seen in modern society for decades leading some to wonder if they’ve gone extinct. All of this intrigue fuels one of the most interesting dog breeds in the world.
Breed Overview
Height:
15–20 inches
Weight:
20–40 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Black, gray, bronze, sand, mottled
Suitable for:
People who enjoy rare or eclectic breeds, those looking for a hairless dog
Temperament:
Brave, loyal, eager to please, loving, protective, peaceful, quiet
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is also known as the African Hairless Dog. It is speculated that this breed originated in Africa. Some people claim that the Abyssinian Sand Terrier was the first hairless dog and is the progenitor of modern hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested Dog and the Mexican Hairless Dog. That means that even if the Abyssinian Sand Terrier is truly nearing extinction, its genetics and traits are still alive and well in current dog breeds.
Abyssinian Sand Terrier Breed Characteristics
The Earliest Record of Abyssinian Sand Terriers in History
The exact origins of the mysterious Abyssinian Sand Terrier are not known. Abyssinian Sand Terriers are a very old dog breed, thought to originate in Eastern Africa. Abyssinia is now modern-day Ethiopia, but it is unclear if this is exactly where these dogs originated. Old exploration logs from the colonial era mention Abyssinian Sand Terriers in detail and claim they used to exist in large numbers. There are old photos of Abyssinian Sand Terriers that still exist. These pictures date back as recently as the 1940s and 1950s, but after that, the breed slowly dwindles and eventually vanishes from the record.
Today, the breed is incredibly rare, even in Africa. In fact, they have been labeled as an extinct breed by some. There are no modern examples of Abyssinian Sand Terriers existing in the modern Western world, and if there are any more records of this breed, they have been lost over time.
How Abyssinian Sand Terriers Gained Popularity
Abyssinian Sand Terriers were never the most popular dog breeds out there. In fact, these dogs were never really domesticated and were considered “semi-wild.” Despite this, Abyssinian Sand Terriers were thought to be extremely calm. They were routinely described as peaceful or tranquil. Abyssinian Sand Terriers were eager to please and relatively intelligent. They never barked.
In fact, some people reported that the dogs would only bark if taught to do so by humans and given treats for doing so. It is thought that they got along with humans and learned to live alongside them but were never really kept as pets.
There are slim chances that you might be able to find these dogs still in existence in rural parts of the African continent. That means that getting your hands on an Abyssinian Sand Terrier is essentially nil. If the experts are to be believed, they might truly be extinct, and therefore getting one of these dogs is, sadly, impossible.
Formal Recognition of Abyssinian Sand Terriers
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier has never been formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other kennel clubs. This is due to the fact that no one knows for sure if they even still exist. However, it is thought that we may have this breed to thank for other hairless dog breeds, such as the Chinese Crested, which is recognized by the American Kennel Club and others.
Top 8 Unique Facts About Abyssinian Sand Terriers
1. Abyssinian Sand Terriers Could Be Extinct
According to various compendiums of dog breeds, there are no readily available examples of living Abyssinian Sand Terriers. In the West, where dog breeds are heavily tracked, traded, and loved, there is no Abyssinian Sand Terrier known to be under human care. There are also no known breeders of Abyssinian Sand Terriers. There could be some examples still living in rural portions of Africa or in their semi-wild state alongside ranchers and shepherds in Africa.
2. Abyssinian Sand Terriers Are the Likely Ancestor to All Current Hairless Breeds
Genetic studies of hairless dog breeds and the Abyssinian Sand Terrier have shown a strong connection between the hairless gene. That means that even if the Abyssinian Sand Terrier is extinct, their genes live on in other common hairless dogs. There are numerous hairless dog breeds that have robust populations around the world. Interestingly, many current hairless breeds originate from Central and South America yet still retain a fairly strong genetic connection to the Abyssinian Sand Terrier.
Image Credit: Zuzule, Shutterstock
3. Native Abyssinian Sand Terriers Were Semi-Wild
While many people today value dog breeds for their potential as family companions, many dogs were bred for a specific job or adapted out of a certain environment. Native Abyssinian Sand Terriers were what many people call “semi-wild.” They did not live inside with their people, but they would follow them around as they worked outside. Abyssinian Sand Terriers would accompany people on hunting trips and accompany shepherds on long walks with their herds. These dogs bonded with people on a more primitive level, but they often didn’t live inside with native African farmers like we would imagine dogs do today.
4. They Are Thought to Be Very Easygoing and Got Along Well With Other Animals
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier got along well with other animals, including other dogs. The calm nature of the Abyssinian Sand Terrier lends itself to getting along with both people and pets alike. They are not too big and did not show many signs of aggressive tendencies. They would get along with their owners, children, and strangers.
5. They Never Really Relied on Humans for Food
Abyssinian Sand Terriers existed in their highest numbers in a time before traditional dog foods. They would have eaten food scraps and whatever small morsels they could have hunted and caught on their own around the house.
6. They Are Thought to Be Very Relaxed
Abyssinian Sand Terriers would need moderate amounts of exercise. As curious dogs, they enjoyed playtime and new situations. However, their calm demeanor meant that they were also happy to simply lay on the couch and relax.
7. They Are Thought to Be Intelligent and Easy to Train
Despite not really being kept as pets, Abyssinian Sand Terriers were easy to train due to the combination of their intelligence and willingness to please.
8. Most Health Issues Stem from Their Lack of Hair
Abyssinian Sand Terriers would be far more prone to catching skin related diseases than other dogs, including mange, allergies, dry skin, skin cancer, sunburn, and more. The lack of fur also makes Abyssinian Sand Terriers prone to hypothermia. They wouldn’t do well in cold climates. Abyssinian Sand Terriers originated in warm parts of Africa and are not designed for cold weather climates.
Do Abyssinian Sand Terriers Make a Good Pet?
It is thought that the Abyssinian Sand Terrier would make a good family dog, if they do still exist and could be fully domesticated. They were thought to be quiet, calm, and friendly. They were also easy to train, which means that a good owner could easily mold an Abyssinian Sand Terrier into a fantastic canine companion.
Final Thoughts
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is one of the most enigmatic and rare dog breeds in the world. There are no living examples of the Abyssinian Sand Terrier living in the Western world as pets. There might be examples still living in Africa as wild or feral dogs in the brush, but there are no Abyssinian Sand Terriers under human care that we know about. Despite that, these dogs are still extremely interesting and provide a unique genetic and historical background that can be traced to our modern world.
See Also: 8 Hairless Dog Breeds: Info, Pictures & History
Featured Image Credit: Linda Hughes Photography, Shutterstock
The post Abyssinian Sand Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Origin & History by Grant Piper appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life
The post What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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If you’ve ever witnessed your dog choking, you know how terrifying and traumatizing it can be. Learning the proper techniques to help your pup in a choking event can be the difference between life and death.
The external extraction technique (XXT) is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment for choking dogs, but we’re willing to bet you’ve never heard of it. If you’re serious about learning everything you can to save your pup’s life in a choking event, keep reading. We’re going to answer all your questions, including “What is the XXT maneuver?” and “When is XXT recommended?”
How Does It Work?
Let’s take a closer look at the steps you need to follow to perform XXT successfully. We also recommend checking out the videos on YouTube of veterinarians performing this procedure, especially if you’re a visual learner.
The Steps on Performing XXT: Procedure One
1. Assume the Proper Starting Position
Place the choking dog on their back to perform the external extraction technique. Their neck and airway should be straight and parallel to the floor. Depending on the dog’s breed and size, you may have to straddle their ribcage but don’t put too much pressure on them. A second person can be helpful if someone is nearby, as they can help hold the pup’s back limbs.
2. Identify Body Landmarks
From this overhead position, you should be able to identify the location of the trachea and the object that’s lodged inside of it. You may even feel the ball in your dog’s throat.
3. Position Fingers
Form an open diamond shape with your hands and place them on both sides of your dog’s trachea below the lodged object. There should be a slight gap between your thumbs. Your middle fingers should push into the “V” notch of your dog’s mouth to help open their jaw.
4. Dislodge the Object
Using your thumbs, lock out your arms and push the ball down and up toward the mouth in a J-stroke motion. This pressure, if applied to the right spot, should then eject the obstruction from the mouth.
5. Rescue Breaths
If your dog doesn’t start breathing when the object is dislodged, provide two mouth-to-snout rescue breaths. It’s essential to keep your dog’s neck straight so there’s a clear pathway from their nose to their lungs. Close their mouth and blow twice into their nose.
Image Credit: Przemek Iciak, Shutterstock
6. Begin CPR
If your dog is still not responding after the rescue breaths, begin CPR immediately. Check our blog for step-by-step instructions here.
7. Seek Veterinary Care
Even if you manage to save your dog from choking, you should still take them to your veterinarian for examination. This is especially true if you’ve performed CPR, as they need to be checked for chest trauma.
If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
What Are the Different Types of the External Extraction Techniques?
There is a second XXT procedure called the PullGrip alternative. What sets the two techniques apart is your body and finger placement. You’ll still need to use a fair amount of pressure and perform a J-stroke to dislodge the ball, just from a different perspective.
The Steps on Performing XXT: The PullGrip Alternative
1. Assume the Proper Starting Position
Lay the dog on their back and position their head in an in-line position. Their airway should be parallel to the floor with the spine, nose, and ears, all forming a straight line.
You will want to position yourself in front of your pup, so you’re facing their snout.
2. Identify Body Landmarks
Feel for the lodged object by examining the outside of the trachea.
3. Position Fingers
Use your thumbs to grip the cheeks or lips and open the lower jaw vertically. Your fingers should be on both sides of the trachea below the lodged object.
4. Pull
Pull your fingers against the object while you press down and out through your pup’s open mouth. Like the other technique, this step involves a “J” stroke.
Where Is It Used?
The external extraction technique is particularly useful in three instances:
When there’s a complete airway obstruction
When it is a ball or similar round object that is lodged
When the dog is unconscious
Advantages of the External Extraction Technique
There are two main advantages to using XXT over other techniques when faced with a choking dog.
First, it’s safe for the owner to perform the procedure as the method is done externally. Pet owners have suffered injuries, including finger amputations, while trying to retrieve an object lodged in the back of their dogs’ throats.
Second, trying to dislodge an object from the throat with your fingers can push it further back.
Disadvantages of the External Extraction Technique
The external extraction technique works when performed properly in the right circumstances. As we mentioned above, XXT is most useful if your dog is experiencing a total airway obstruction, choking on a ball or round object, or unconscious. The technique may be less useful in other applications.
XXT requires some level of confidence and calmness to perform it as designed. Unfortunately, choking emergencies aren’t known for their tranquility, which can make performing XXT properly tricky. However, any technique an owner tries to save their dog from choking can be less effective if performed in a high-stress situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who created XXT?
The first person to describe this technique was James Herriot, a British veterinary surgeon and author who wrote about XXT in his memoir, which was published in the 1970s. However, Dr. Tim Crowe, a veterinarian and founding American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care member, brought this technique to the forefront of modern veterinary care.
What else can I do to help my dog in an emergency?
We highly recommend finding a pet-centric first aid course if one is available in your area. Knowing what to do in an emergency will not only provide peace of mind but could also be the difference between life and death for your dog. The American Red Cross offers online cat and dog first aid training. Meanwhile, St. John’s Ambulance provides an in-person equivalent for Canadians.
How can I prevent my dog from choking in the future?
The most important thing you can do to ensure your dog doesn’t choke on balls or other objects in the future is to supervise them to ensure they’re engaging in safe play. You can also choose toys that are aligned with their breed size and capabilities and make it a point to thoroughly inspect all toys regularly for damage or cracks.
Conclusion
Seeing your dog choking on an object is a terrifying experience for both you and your pup. Fortunately, complete airway obstructions are rare, but if you do believe your dog is suffering from one, you now know what needs to be done to save them.
If you’re not already familiar with pet first aid techniques, we highly recommend educating yourself. You never know if you might need to use the external extraction technique to save your dog’s life.
Featured Image Credit:
The post What Is the External Extraction Technique (XXT) & Why It Could Save Your Dog’s Life by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Can Dogs Get Bug Bites? Vet-Verified Identification & Care
The post Can Dogs Get Bug Bites? Vet-Verified Identification & Care by Matt Jackson appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Even though they have a fairly protective covering of hair, dogs are still vulnerable to bug bites. This is because they tend to investigate everything with their noses and spend a lot of time close to the ground. Below, we’ll discuss some of the most common types of bug bites on dogs, as well as signs to look for and what you should do about the bites.
Common Bug Bites
Some bugs, like fleas, can be found virtually anywhere. Others, like some types of ticks, are found near water. Determining the type of bug that has bitten your dog can determine the best course of action. Some of the most likely culprits of bug bites on your dog are detailed below.
Fleas
Fleas are tiny pests that can jump incredible distances, are typically brought in from outdoors, and they can pass from one dog to another. Once they’re on your dog, they will breed and multiply, and if you don’t take action to get rid of fleas as soon as you see them, the problem can become much worse.
Bites can be difficult to spot, but you will likely notice your dog scratching and even biting their skin, and you might be able to spot the red bumps that are telltale signs of flea bites.
Try combing your dog’s fur and looking for signs of flea dirt and live insects on the comb. Flea bite dermatitis is a severe reaction to the bites where dogs become incredibly itchy and often develop a rash complete with raised red bumps and swelling mainly at the base of the tail. A single bite can trigger it. It’s best to get a prescription from your vet to eliminate the fleas, and you’ll also have to treat all animals in your home as well as your house and yard to eradicate an infestation.
Image Credit: TamaraLSanchez, Shutterstock
Ticks
Ticks are tiny eight-legged arachnids that feed on mammals. They typically live in grass or shrubs, often near bodies of water, and they will hitch a ride on your dog as they walk through the undergrowth.
They bite and suck blood from your dog. You’ll often find the tick still attached to your dog as it feeds. Otherwise, you may notice an area of redness or swelling if the tick has already let go. Ticks are commonly found around the neck, ears, head, and feet.
You can remove them carefully with tweezers or use a tick-removal tool. However, if your dog has several ticks and is displaying signs of being sick, take them to the veterinarian. Your vet can remove the ticks, examine your dog for infections, and prescribe a preventative treatment to keep them from returning. You might also consider taking a different route on your next dog walk to prevent a re-infestation.
If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
Mites
Mites are even more challenging to detect than fleas and ticks, and it is virtually impossible to see individual bites. However, if your dog gets bitten multiple times, it can cause them to lose fur in that area, as well as some biting and scratching.
Sarcoptic mange is one of the most common mites that affect dogs, and it is very contagious. It can be passed on from other dogs and even objects in the environment. If your dog is affected, you need to make a veterinary appointment as soon as possible to start treatment.
Image credit: fetrinka, Shutterstock
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes not only bite people but will also bite pets. Mosquitoes are easier to see than fleas and mites, and their bites tend to leave behind a raised red skin lesion that is easy to detect. If you’ve ever suffered mosquito bites, you are looking for similar-looking bites on your dog.
Ensure your dog is on a heartworm preventative because if a mosquito is infected with heartworm, a single bite is enough to pass them along to your dog. You can get dog-safe bug repellent sprays that can help deter mosquitoes, but they are not always effective at eliminating the problem.
Bees And Wasps
Bees, wasps, and hornets can also sting canines. Generally, the sting causes enough pain to cause a physical reaction from your dog, such as crying or barking.
Stings can also cause redness and swelling, and some dogs may have allergic reactions to the stings which can cause considerable swelling and difficulty breathing and swallowing. If your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction, you must see a vet immediately because the reaction can lead to life threatening breathing problems.
These stinging insects are more common during the summer months, and there is little you can do to avoid coming into contact with them. You should discourage your dog from approaching them and find walking routes with fewer stinging insects.
Image Credit: Madcat_Madlove, Shutterstock
Fire Ants
Fire ant bites can be extremely painful, and if your dog walks over a fire ant nest or comes into contact with several fire ants, they can suffer multiple bites in quick succession. As with bee stings, fire ant bites can cause allergic reactions, and some are severe, so you should contact a vet if your dog shows signs of a reaction.
Brush or wash off any ants you see on your dog, and if you have them in your yard, use a commercial pesticide or pay a professional to get rid of them.
Spiders
Venomous spiders can bite and cause severe reactions in dogs, even if their venom does not have enough potency to be considered dangerous to people. Unfortunately, the bites can be difficult to spot immediately, so you may not know your dog has been bitten by a spider until days later when the skin becomes inflamed and necrotic.
If your dog has been bitten, reacting quickly is vital and could save your dog’s life. Ideally, if you can describe the spider to the vet, it will help them identify the venom affecting your pup and help them determine the best course of action.
Image Credit: PRESSLAB, Shutterstock
What To Do If Your Dog Has Been Bitten
Most insect bites are relatively harmless to dogs, but some can be dangerous, especially if your dog has an allergic reaction to them. If you see signs of a bite, try to determine the likely culprit.
Watch for any negative reaction to the bite and apply a cold press to reduce swelling. If you see signs like lethargy, panting, or difficulty breathing, contact a vet immediately so they can advise you on the best steps to take.
Conclusion
Dogs are inquisitive animals that like to investigate everything from patches of grass to ant hills. Their inquisitive nature and proximity to the ground and plants mean that dogs can be prone to being bitten by bugs.
Flea bites are the most common bug bites, but mite and tick bites are fairly common as well. Bee and wasp stings, although not strictly bites, along with bites from some spiders, can be very serious, especially if your dog has an allergic reaction to it.. Contacting your vet for an appointment is vital if your dog is stung or bitten and displays concerning signs.
Featured Image Credit: Photo-Vista.de, Shutterstock
The post Can Dogs Get Bug Bites? Vet-Verified Identification & Care by Matt Jackson appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
10 Best Dog Training Podcasts in 2024
The post 10 Best Dog Training Podcasts in 2024 by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Podcasts offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for true crime or a deep dive into a particular fandom, there’s a podcast for that! You might not know that many excellent podcasts are also dedicated to dog training.
These dog training podcasts teach dog parents, new and old, about canine behavior and best practices for training a pup. They can aid you in training your new puppy or teaching an old dog new tricks. Not sure where to start with dog training podcasts? We’re looking at 10 fantastic podcasts you should check out today!
The 10 Best Dog Training Podcasts in 2024
1. Animal Training Academy Podcast
Platform:
Apple, Spotify, Stitcher
Host:
Ryan Cartlidge
Focus:
Animal behavior
If you have a general interest in animal behavior or think learning more about the behavior of animals could aid in training your pup, the Animal Training Academy is the podcast for you! This podcast, hosted by Ryan Cartlidge, is done in an interview format, wherein the host interviews all sorts of experts in the field of animal behavior from around the world.
These interviewees offer advice on the best ways to train animals, suitable for amateur and professional trainers. One of the best things about the Animal Training Academy is that it offers you a variety of opinions, so you can take what resonates with you. However, this podcast doesn’t teach you how to train a dog on specific commands or tricks, so if you’re looking for that, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Many episodes focus on horses and zoo animals, so you might want to skip those.
2. Dog Talk With Dr. Jen Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Jennifer Summerfield
Focus:
Behavioral problems
Looking for a dog training podcast from a professional dog trainer? You may want to listen to Dog Talk with Dr. Jen. Dr. Jen has experience as not only a professional dog trainer but also a veterinarian and offers one of the most informative and well-done podcasts on behavioral problems. That does mean the focus is more on the behavioral problems and less on the training itself, but she does talk about basic puppy training, such as potty training and helping pups recall commands. She also delves into underlying medical issues that can cause behavioral problems, giving you a better idea of why your pet may be misbehaving.
This podcast is suitable for those with puppies or adult dogs, whether they’re new or experienced dog parents. Keep in mind, though, that you won’t find advanced training tips here, so if that’s what you need, you’ll have to choose another podcast.
3. Dr. Dunbar’s iWoofs Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Ian Dunbar
Focus:
Training puppies
Looking to learn more about how to train your new puppy? Dr. Dunbar’s iWoofs Podcast is an excellent training podcast for puppies, as well as for those who are new dog owners. Dr. Dunbar is a vet, animal behaviorist, and dog trainer, so he really knows what he’s talking about.
Episodes provide a range of information from what you should expect on your puppy’s first day in their new home to how to house train your pup. There’s also talk of how important socialization is, as well as coverage of the essential supplies one needs for a puppy. However, this podcast isn’t entirely about training puppies, as Dr. Dunbar also discusses animal behavior, in general, and adopting adult dogs.
4. Drinking From the Toilet Podcast
Platform:
Apple, Soundcloud, Spotify
Host:
Hannah Branigan
Focus:
Training, animal behavior
Looking for a behind-the-scenes look at training and animal behavior? Drinking From the Toilet with Hannah Brannigan might be right for you. Brannigan is a trainer with a background in biology and human sports, and she shares that knowledge in her podcast by bringing science-based solutions to the dog training learning space. Each episode is jam-packed with goodness, from training to animal behavior to doggie sports.
While science-based, her tips and information are also practical, so they can be easily applied to your dog training. She also occasionally interviews others, bringing in entirely new perspectives on training. Brannigan can get a bit science nerdy at times, though, so if you’re less into the science of it all and more into the tips part, Drinking From the Toilet might not be the podcast for you.
5. Fenzi Dog Sports Academy Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Melissa Breau
Focus:
Training, doggie sports
Want to train a sporting dog for doggie sports? Fenzi Dog Sports Academy offers you all kinds of information and tips on how to do just that. They cover a variety of sports and incorporate education on respect and the importance of positivity in such sports. The host interviews different trainers who share their training ideas and explain how such training works so you can experience a variety of ideas for training a dog for sports.
This podcast is focused mainly on the Academy; this online dog training school interviews trainers from the Academy and promotes their classes often. So, the marketing aspect of this podcast might not be for everyone. There are also a few episodes on horse training rather than dog training you may not be interested in.
6. No Bad Dogs Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Tom Davis
Focus:
Training, dog behavior
If you’ve ever wondered what your canine companion was thinking, this is the podcast for you! Hosted by Thomas Davis, otherwise known as America’s Canine Educator, the No Bad Dogs podcast offers you tons of information on dog training. Whether you’re looking to train a puppy or an adult dog, learn advanced techniques for training, or learn how to teach training yourself, this podcast has you covered.
Davis brings in tons of people to interview, including trainers, dog enthusiasts, and everyone in between. There’s even a Q&A session each week where you can ask any questions you have! Overall, this podcast looks to be excellent, though if you are looking to hear mostly from training experts and not other dog owners, you may enjoy it less.
7. Positively Dog Training Podcast
Platform:
Spotify, Apple
Host:
Victoria Stilwell
Focus:
Training, dog behavior, trending dog topics
You might already be familiar with Victoria Stilwell, as she’s the famous dog trainer and behavioral expert from the show “It’s Me or the Dog.” Positively Dog Training is her personal podcast, where she teams up with Holly Firfer from the same show to discuss all things canine. Whether you’re looking for training tips and advice, information on canine behavior, or simply some fun, Positively Dog Training is a highly enjoyable podcast.
It also covers trending dog news and topics that may not interest some. Stilwell and her co-host discuss their show and even answer fan questions, which may not interest some either. If you like a good mix of stuff, this podcast might be right for you.
8. The McCann Dogs Podcast
Platform:
Spotify, Apple, YouTube
Host:
McCann Professional Dog Trainers
Focus:
Training, dog behavior, caring for dogs
This dog training podcast is hosted by the McCann Professional Dog Trainers, who have 40 years of experience with training. Not only does this podcast offer insight into the ups and downs of training your pup, but it will also provide you with information on how to care for your dog based on their personal needs, give clues to what your pup is thinking, and teach you about how your pup might learn best. They cover various topics, like teaching your dog to walk without pulling on their leash, come when called, and always respond when their name is said.
This podcast covers general animal behavior and other topics, like how best to spend quality time with your furry pal, so it’s fairly well-rounded overall! There’s even a YouTube channel for the podcast if you’d be more interested in that.
9. The Puppy Training Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Amy Jensen
Focus:
Puppy training
If you need a podcast to help you train your new puppy, then The Puppy Training Podcast with Amy Jensen is what you’re looking for. This podcast is focused primarily on the basic training of puppies (though there is some talk of training puppies to be therapy and service animals). Jensen is a professional dog trainer, so she certainly has the experience needed to teach others how to train, and she’s excellent at relaying instructions in a way that’s simple for new puppy owners to follow.
However, since this podcast focuses on puppies, you’ll need to look elsewhere if you’re looking to train an adult dog. Otherwise, this podcast is excellent for advice and tips on training!
10. Training Without Conflict Podcast
Platform:
Apple
Host:
Ivan Balabanov
Focus:
Training, animal health, animal behavior
Finally, there’s the Training Without Conflict podcast hosted by Ivan Balabanov. Balabanov has 40+ years of dog training, protection of dogs, dog sports, and civil work under his belt, so he’s fairly well-versed in all things training. In this podcast, he not only shares his insights on training after four decades in the field but invites a vast variety of other trainers and animal health experts on to explore training and more.
This show offers you a deep dive into the canine mind and promises to change your entire outlook on how to train your dog. (Whether that’s true remains to be seen but take a listen to the podcast to find out!)
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a little professional help when it comes to training your dog but don’t want to send your dog to a school or hire a trainer, why not check out one of the many dog training podcasts available? This is just a small sampling of what’s out there, so even if you don’t find something that suits you on this list, you have options. However, all the podcasts on this list are among the best, so try giving some of them a listen. Your dog will thank you!
See Also: 11 Best Podcasts About Dogs (2024 Guide)
Featured Image Credit: Monkey Business Images, Shutterstock
The post 10 Best Dog Training Podcasts in 2024 by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Understanding the Temperament of Pitbull Breed: What the Data Says
When thinking about adding a dog to your family one of the most important things to consider is temperament. A…
The post Understanding the Temperament of Pitbull Breed: What the Data Says appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
Introducing the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster: Subi, Gizmo, Draper, Rue Bizou, Machado & Rosa
The post Introducing the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster: Subi, Gizmo, Draper, Rue Bizou, Machado & Rosa by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hey Dogsters! Today, we’re introducing our new Wednesday Dogs of Dogster, a rotating crew of hilarious dogs and their families. Scroll down for a quick introduction to Amanda & Subi, Kate & Gizmo, Meagan, Draper & Rue, and Nicole, Rosa & Machado. Check back here every Wednesday for the latest adventures of our Dogster crew!
Amanda & Subi
Hey y’all, I am Amanda, a Senior Content Manager here at Pangolia. And this is Subi, my quirky chi rescue with a personality as big as her appetite. A particularly wide bottom and a set of bowed legs have blessed her with a distinguished gait, waddling around like a miniature cowboy. Though she’s timid by nature and often found hiding in the safety of her bed or kennel, her obsession with snacks pushes her into brave new territories—like under the kid table during dinner time or at the window to ward off passer-byers with her intimidating bark.
Her life thus far has been a series of adventures and challenges fuelled by a love for food and a need to adapt to new environments every so often. Subi’s had her share of hardships and lived in a few different spots before settling into her forever home with us. Although she can be a bit skittish and shy to new faces – human and dog – the majority of the time, she’s a happy-go-lucky chihuahua whose love can be won over with a treat and a little patience.
We are so excited to bring you back to the beginning, share her journey, and tell you all the hilarious things she does. Her story is just beginning and I am super happy to invite you into Subi’s world, one tail at a time.
Kate & Gizmo
Hi, I’m Kate and I’m a Senior Content Manager at Dogster. A couple of years ago, I spotted my little man Gizmo on a local dog rescue website and immediately knew I had to meet him.
His name was Junior, and he had an air of slightly deranged joy in all of his pictures. He was fluffy, outgoing, and smiley, visibly straining toward the people in every picture. His backstory was pretty mysterious – all they knew was that he’d come out of an overcrowded shelter in Texas. The rescue had tested him with kids, cats, and other dogs, and he passed with flying colors. Basically, he was perfect.
Gizmo’s photos on the dog rescue websites
I adopted Gizmo (his new name suits him much better) with my best friend, so he has multiple families and feels at home in at least five different houses. He’s a sweet little velcro dog who loves to wiggle his way into everyone’s hearts. And although he was pretty nutty at first, he has settled into being the perfect coworker, napping on my lap while I type and popping into almost every Zoom meeting. He loves road trips, hiking, and napping in the softest spots available – ideally a Princess and the Pea-style pile of blankets and pillows.
Stay tuned to read about Gizmo’s debut in People Magazine, doggy DNA test results, yurt adventures, and more!
Meagan, Draper, and Rue Bizou
Draper, top left, and Rue Bizou
Hey there! I’m Meagan, and I’m here to give you a peek into my life as the proud fur mom of two long-haired miniature dachshunds. Meet Draper, named after the one and only Don Draper from Mad Men—because who wouldn’t want a dog with a sophisticated taste for whiskey and chain smoking? And then there’s our little troublemaker, Rue Bizou. The “Bizou” part is unofficial, but if you say it twice, it totally sounds like Scooby Doobie Doo, and honestly, that’s just too good to pass up.
Draper is our firstborn and my husband’s ultimate dream dog. I’ve never seen a man so giddy as the day we picked him up—like a kid in a candy store, except the store was closed due to a pandemic. Yep, Draper is a full-blown pandemic puppy: nervous around strangers, unsure about public spaces, and more attached to us than a toddler with a blankie. Life with one dependent was a breeze—easy-peasy, like a slow Sunday morning. We all had our roles down pat. But then, plot twist!
Fast forward to September 2023, and Rue decided to join the party just three short months before we welcomed our first human baby into the world. Because clearly, we thought, “Let’s add a puppy to the mix! What could possibly go wrong?” Spoiler alert: some days, it’s a blast; other days, it’s like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. But hey, who doesn’t love a little chaos?
With two miniature dachshunds ruling the roost, every day is a blend of laughter, love, and the occasional exasperation. They remind me that life is best lived with a bit of chaos, a lot of cuddles, and a whole heap of humor. So, welcome to our wonderfully wild world with Draper and Rue—where every moment is an adventure waiting to happen!
Nicole, Rosa & Machado
Machado on the left, Rosa on the right
Hey everyone, I’m Nicole, the Director of Content Management at Dogster, and I’m excited to introduce you to two of the real bosses around here, Rosa and Machado (Mac/McCuddles). They are both rescues, so we aren’t 100% sure about their breeds, but we believe Rosa is a New Zealand Huntaway and Mac is a Lab x Mastiff. Rosa has battled anxiety (she has a pretty disheartening origin story before we found her) but she is a true measure of bravery. I am always in awe of how strong she is and everything she has overcome. And we call Mac our ‘drag to trash surfer boy’ because we don’t know much about where he came from, but we know he forgot it all the second he got here. He’s a big friendly giant. They are both super derpy and adorable and a bit cheeky. The perfect pups.
I’m a Canadian expat living in New Zealand with these two monkeys and my Kiwi husband and our two-year-old daughter. Every four weeks we will be sharing stories with you about rural life and all of the wild antics these rescue pups get up to, and all the joy they bring into our lives. I can’t wait to share more about them with you all!
The post Introducing the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster: Subi, Gizmo, Draper, Rue Bizou, Machado & Rosa by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Importing Dogs to USA: 6 Tips for Bringing Your Pup Back Home
The post Importing Dogs to USA: 6 Tips for Bringing Your Pup Back Home by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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There’s no denying that importing animals into the US is a complicated process. Whether you’re trying to bring your pet dog into the country after moving back home or are importing it for commercial sale, you can expect to encounter a thorough customs process that involves health checks and a lot of paperwork.
If you want to bring a dog into the US, it’s essential to schedule plenty of time to ensure your dog has all the requirements met before traveling. Here are the basics of what you can expect to do if you plan to import your dog into the country.
The 6 Tips for Importing Your Dog to USA
1. Get Updated Information
Travel requirements are always subject to change, so it’s important to start by visiting the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website. APHIS is a part of the US Department of Agriculture, and one of its responsibilities is monitoring and regulating international pet travel.
APHIS lists its updated rules and regulations for importing dogs from another country on its website. It’s important to note that rules will differ depending on which state you’re entering, and some circumstances require obtaining an import permit. If you have any specific questions, you can contact a customer service representative via phone, email, or live chat.
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
2. Contact Your Airline Company
Airline companies have the same basic travel requirements for dogs. However, they can differ in the details, such as breed restrictions, weight limits, and crate sizes. Traveling with dogs requires an advanced booking, and your dog won’t be able to board the plane if you don’t meet all travel requirements. Therefore, it’s best to contact an airline company before you book your flight so that you have all the information you need to ensure your dog can enter the US.
3. Find a Licensed Veterinarian for Travel
The US has health requirements that vary depending on the country your dog is exported from. Working with a licensed veterinarian in the export country can help streamline the process of ensuring you can import your dog into the US. When searching for a veterinarian, look for someone who has experience with completing health checks for international pet travel. They’ll have a better idea on what types of vaccines, forms, and fees are required for your dog’s travel.
Image Credit: olgagorovenko, Shutterstock
4. Get Your Dog Microchipped
While much of your dog’s travel requirements revolve around health records, it’s important not to forget about microchipping. It’s highly recommended to have your dog microchipped before they enter the US. Not only does microchipping help with relocating dogs lost in transit, but it’s often required if your dog is coming from a high-risk country.
When selecting a microchip, make sure to let the vet administering the microchip know that you need one that is ISO-compatible (International Standards Organization) and can be read with a universal scanner. Dogs who arrive to the US from a high-risk country can be denied entry if the microchip can’t be read.
5. Schedule Flights to Approved Airports for High-Risk Countries
APHIS has a list of high-risk countries that gets updated as needed. Dogs exported from high-risk countries face more restricted entries and can’t enter through every US airport. They are only eligible for entry if they arrive at airports with a CDC-registered animal care facility. You must also secure a reservation with the facility before your dog’s flight.
Keep in mind that the facility your dog enters must match the name of the facility on their travel documents. Your dog can be denied entry if you change the facility without updating those changes on their papers.
Image Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock
6. Work With a Pet Relocation Service
Importing a dog is a meticulous process, and it can be overwhelming if it’s your first time attempting it. Therefore, it may be worth looking into working with a pet charter company. Pet charter companies are a limited service and may not be available in every country, but most major cities around the world have a few operating in them. While these companies tend to have higher rates than standard airlines, they can make air travel easier for you by assisting you with navigating US customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will My Dog Be Quarantined When They Reach the US?
Some dogs may be quarantined when they arrive in the US. For example, dogs from high-risk countries who have been exposed to a zoonotic disease will be quarantined at a CDC-registered animal care facility.
The length of days your dog is quarantined will depend on the disease. Dogs may be quarantined for several days to several weeks. In cases where your dog doesn’t have a valid rabies serology titer report, they can be subject to a 28-day quarantine.
Are There Any Dog Breeds Banned from Importing Into the US?
While the US doesn’t have federal breed restriction laws, states have varying rules and regulations. On top of that, some states leave breed restriction legislation to local counties and municipalities. Therefore, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws and if they have any breed restrictions.
What Is a Pet Passport?
A pet passport is different from a human passport. Rather than being a booklet, a pet passport is a collection of documents required for international travel. The term is often used interchangeably with pet health certifications and US customs documents.
Image Credit: Yekatseryna Netuk, Shutterstock
Conclusion
Your dog’s process for entry into the US will depend on a variety of factors, including their vaccine records, breed, and the country they’re leaving. It’s important to communicate and work with APHIS, a licensed veterinarian, and your airline company to ensure your dog has all the travel documents they need to gain entry. You may also need to reach out to a CDC-registered animal care facility if your dog is entering from a high-risk country.
Featured Image Credit: Yekatseryna Netuk, Shutterstock
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