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Happy Halloween Daily Bark Readers!
We hope everyone has a fun treat-filled Halloween including the wonderful dogs in our lives!
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Health Tips Every Dog Parent Should Know
It’s always exciting seeing your dog enjoying their time playing with friends during playdates or at dog parks but those social settings also come with health risks. The good news is that many of those risks are preventable with just a few smart habits that can go a long way.
What are the risks?
Dogs can pick up diseases in social settings through direct contact (sniffing, licking, play), shared water bowls or toys, contaminated surfaces (like floors or grass), stool, insects (fleas, ticks), and even via parasites that pass between dogs and people.
Most common illnesses are respiratory infections like kennel cough or canine influenza, parasites and skin infections.
Best ways to protect your pup according to the AVMA
1. Keep vaccinations up to date
This is your first line of defense. Core (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and rabies) and optional vaccines help reduce the risk of common diseases found in social settings.
2. Avoid contact with ill dogs
If another dog is sneezing, coughing, or showing signs of illness, keep your dog at a safe distance.
3. Bring your own water and bowls
Never rely on communal bowls. Bring clean water and a bowl from home to reduce cross-contamination.
4. Clean up after your dog
Promptly removing and disposing of stool helps reduce parasites and other pathogens lingering in the area.
5. Use parasite prevention year-round
Fleas, ticks, and other insects often lurk in parks and grassy areas. Use vet-recommended preventatives to help block those pathways of disease.
6. Monitor behavior and give your dog space
Watch for signs your dog is stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure. If things seem too intense, step back or give your dog a break away from the group.
8 Simple Ways to Build a Stronger Connection With Your Puppy
Welcoming a puppy into your home is one of life’s joyful moments and it also opens the door to building a relationship that will last a lifetime. Establishing a strong bond with your pup early will help build trust, improve communication, and increase your overall enjoyment together.
Here are eight things The Puppy Academy recommends you focus on:
1. Clear communication
Even though your puppy may not understand every word, they will pick up on your tone and body language. Using a calm, consistent voice and simple cues for their name, “come,” and eye contact helps them learn you’re someone they can rely on.
2. Boundaries matter
Use baby gates or playpens to define safe spaces, and be consistent with rules so your pup knows what’s expected.
3. A daily schedule
Having a routine helps puppies thrive so try to stick to a schedule for feeding, naptime, training, and play. When your pup knows what comes next, they feel more comfortable and confident.
4. Make playtime count
Play is more than fun: it’s bonding time. Games like hide-and-seek (“I’m behind the couch, come find me!”), tug, or fetch help your pup connect with you, learn to respond, and think.
5. Exercise with purpose
Fresh air, movement, and exploring new places all enrich your puppy’s life and yours. Remember that young pups need gentle movement and gradual increases so their bodies develop safely.
6. Teach together
Training isn’t just commands, it’s collaboration. When you teach the basics (sit, stay, leave it) and reward each success, you’re saying “I trust you, you trust me.” That builds a deeper bond.
7. Safe space & downtime
Even the most playful pup needs rest. Create a cozy space for them in a crate or pen where your puppy can take a break, especially when things around the home get busy. This helps them feel safe and balanced.
8. Gentle handling & touch
Getting your pup comfortable with you touching their paws, ears, and face is important so they are used to it if you need to inspect those areas more closely in case of a medical emergency.
Simple First-Aid Tips You Should Know
As loving dog parents, we look forward to the many peaceful and loving moments with our dogs but it’s important to also be prepared for the unexpected too. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, first aid in an emergency is about preserving life, reducing pain, and minimizing long-term damage.
Start with safety first
When something goes wrong, pause. Make sure both you and your dog are out of harm’s way, then keep your dog warm (unless heatstroke is the issue) and quiet, limiting movement, especially if you suspect trauma or broken bones. You might also need to muzzle your dog (watch video here) if they are injured so you can treat them safely. Contact your vet, describe the situation, and follow their guidance.
Recognizing signs of trouble
Shock is one of the most urgent conditions. Signs include rapid breathing, pale gums, cold extremities, and weakness. In such moments, your calm response matters. Keep your dog as immobile and comfortable as possible until you can reach professional help.
Know basic interventions.
If the airway is blocked, clear debris, extend the neck gently (unless you suspect spinal injury), and begin rescue breathing if the dog isn’t breathing.
If there’s no heartbeat or pulse, chest compressions and CPR may be required—this is advanced, but knowing the steps can make a difference. We recommend doing a Google search to find the nearest pet CPR training near you.
For visible bleeding or open wounds: apply direct pressure with a clean towel or gauze and keep the wound covered while transporting your dog.
Aftercare matters.
Even if your dog seems fine after an event, a veterinary check-up is critical. Hidden issues like internal injuries, spinal trauma, or delayed shock can appear hours or days later.
Make a simple plan.
Have your veterinarian’s contact info handy and know the route to an emergency clinic. Consider keeping a first-aid kit with gauze, towels, a muzzle, gloves, and your dog’s info. Preparation gives you peace of mind and helps you act confidently.
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"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive."
— Gilda Radner
Until next time,
Their Best Life Starts With You.