Is Your Dog Driving You Nuts?

Man's best friend can be very loyal and eager to please.  However, some animals need extra attention to rid certain behaviors.   Training at home or by a specialist can help the home be a more peaceful place.  Certain behaviors when eliminated do just that.

1.  Does your dog jump up on people to greet them?
2.  Some dogs dig holes in the back yard and even planters.
3.  Excessive barking can quickly make a home unpleasant.
4.  Dogs can incredibly chew items such as couches, walls and much more.
5.  Some dogs are aggressive towards people and other dogs during feeding.
6.  Play biting can become aggressive and a painful problem.

If you have identified any of these problems, it's time to turn your dog around.  Most people just need advice and with persistence can train their dog themselves.  However, professional training may be necessary when training is needed for both the dog and owner alike.  Proper techniques can eliminate problem behaviors, set foundations skills and lead to advanced training.  When a dog is trained, everyone in the house is happier including the dog.  Most animals aim to please, so ridding unwanted behavior and redirect energy in more positive ways turns into good for all.

For those of you that decide to train your dog yourself, there are two theories on training.

1. A strong, "alpha dog" will let your dog know who's boss and naughty behavior will not be tolerated. Good advice is to be a boss without becoming a bully.  When dogs become fearful, the dominance can turn into confusion and inability to learn.  You can be a good leader without scaring your dog.
2. The other theory is all about rewards.  The theory suggests rewards when your dog does what you want helps them to learn the behavior you do and do not like.

Both methods can be employed, as long as patience and kindness remain a top priority.  Remember, dogs do not learn on the first try.  They will make mistakes before it sinks in.  Consistency is the important key. Everyone in the household should be on the same page.  Sending mixed signals can result in an anxious, unhappy, fearful dog, or worse yet becomes more entrenched in the bad behavior.  

Good tips to know.

1.  When you announce a walk, do not take your dog out until it quits jumping and settles down.
2.  High energy dogs need more activity such as play dates, fetch with a ball, tug of war, agility runs,
     long walks or Frisbee.  Some dogs need rid of energy before you teach.
3.  When teaching a new skill, keep the training times short around 15 minutes or less.
4.  Always work on polishing up old commands.  Many times, once or twice a week will do the trick.
5.  Before dinner is served, have your practice a command like, sit to earn the reward.
6.  Timing is crucial when rewarding your dog.  Always give a treat immediately.
7.  Always end the training on a good note.
8.  Have everyone in the family use the same word for a specific command.
9.  Be patient, training your dog can take time.
10. Prevention is always best.  Dog proof your home.  Put items up that you do not want to be chewed, and a trash can away that you do not want rummaged through.

If your dog needs training and you need advice, Marietta Vet Clinic and Marietta veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM can help assess your dog for advice.  They are accepting new pets at the animal clinic from Monday to Saturday.

Marietta Vet Clinic Announces New Website

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM are proud to announce a new, more user-friendly website has been launched.  "Our website still offers the same valuable information, but in a better format," says Dr. Peckich.  "It offers valuable information with updated client information, articles and blog posts every week."

Marietta Vet Clinic Announces New Website

The blog has been popular with many people, as it is full of fun stories, pet information and fun facts and events.  People often say they weren't aware of valuable information that improves their pet's quality of life.  If it's news worthy, the clinic shares the information.

On the technical side, the website is a responsive design, making it easy to use across the different platforms; laptop, iPhone, android, desk top and more.  It's an optimal view and interaction regardless of the device used.  Re-sizing, panning and scrolling become proportionate with flexible grids and images.

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM invite pet owners to visit the new website. Welcoming new pets to the animal clinic.  

•     General Examinations
•     Consultation
•     Internal Medicine Case Workups
•     Vaccinations
•     Diagnostic lab work (blood, urine, culture, wound)
•     Heartworm Testing, Treatment & Prevention
•     Feline Leukemia Virus & Feline Immunodeficiency Testing
•     Parvovirus Testing
•     Parasite Screening and Prevention (worms, fleas, ticks, mites, etc)
•     Dermatologic Concerns (scratching, hair loss (alopecia),
•     Geriatric/Senior Wellness Exams
•     Pediatric Care & Guidance
•     Nutritional Counseling
•     Microchipping
•     In-Home Euthanasia
•     Post-mortem Studies (Necropsy)
•     Elective Surgeries (neuter, spay, bladder stone removal, exploratory surgery, etc)
•     Mass Removal/Pathology
•     Dental Assessment, Prophylaxis (cleaning) & Treatment
•     Dental Radiology (X-Ray)

Let's Meet Some Short Spine Syndrome Dogs

Although rare, short spine syndrome dogs do exist. Also known as baboon syndrome, there are five in United States; Alabama, Florida, Maryland, New York, Ohio and Wisconsin with two in Italy.  New York. Ohio. Wisconsin.  Let's meet Pig, Cuda and Quasi Modo.

Pig

Quasi Modo

Cuda     Picture by Julie LaRoy

Short spine syndrome in dogs is a sever shortening of the spine due to compression, as the carleage does not harden to form bone. Some vertebrae are fused together making the spine less flexible with a normal size head close to the shoulder blades giving the appearance of no neck.

The animals back slopes downward towards its back legs, with a short, low set, twisted tail close to the ground.  Limbs are of normal size but incorrectly positioned, as the knee and elbow joints point outward.  The lower half of the abdominal looks abnormally large with a considerably compressed rib cage and reduction in the number of ribs.

Although these dogs have a difficult time in running, jumping and eating, they usually live out of normal lifespan.

Animals That Hoard

Many animal hoard, just like people.  Hamsters, woodpeckers, squirrels, dogs, etc. will hoard, save and guard excesses for a time when things are not as plentiful. Animals hoard food, toys, bedding, bones, etc and even unnecessary items. Interestingly, many animals are particularly wary being watched when hoarding, weary of a raid from another animal later.

All mine!

Have you ever seen a dog chew a bone while laying on another, or a hamster with cheeks full of food?

The term hoarding is typically used to describe rodents, and caching typically used for birds.

Animals store up food with two types of behavior.  Larder hoarding is when an animal puts and defends food in a few large stashes, making the consequence of a raid more devastating.  Scatter hoarding is where an animal stores food items in individual places.  Have you ever heard about squirrel starving because it can not remember where the food was hid?  Scatter hoarding requires a better memory.

If you have a dog that hoards toys, Marietta Vet Clinic can offer advice on relieving stress for the dog and keeping the home a happier place.  For some dogs, leaving out one toy at a time is a quick and easy solution for guarding.  Rotate the toys every couple of days to give the dog variety. This technique can relieve many dogs for a more peaceful existence.

Marietta veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM welcomes dogs and cats to the pet clinic for behavior issues.  Welcoming new pets from the Kennesaw, Marietta, Acworth, Dallas, and Powder Springs areas.

Diabetes Sniffing Dog Alerts High and Low Blood Sugar

People suffering diabetes understand the importance of keeping blood sugar within limits. In 1999, a

man named Mark Ruefenacht suffered diabetes and after suffering an acute low blood sugar, he was alerted by a dog he was training for the blind.  The dog instinctively roused him from his drowsiness allowing him to get help.  This experience gave Mr. Ruefenacht the idea  to train a Labrador retriever named Armstrong to detect changes in blood sugar.  As a result, he founded Dogs4Diabetics, Inc, a non-profit organization that places dogs with people suffering type 1 diabetics.

Diabetes sniffing dogs can detect both high and low blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Until it is prevented and cured, a trained dog can improve the life of a person affected giving them peace of mind and something fuzzy to love.

If you suffer or know someone suffering from diabetes, a Dog4Diabetics may be for you.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, +Julian Peckich DVM are happy to help safe guard the health of your diabetic dog.  They understand the importance of keeping special dogs in tip top shape.  The animal clinic offers well and sick care for medical alert dogs.

Cancer Survivor Credits Dog for Survival

Cancer survivor credits a rescue hound dog for living through cancer to become a survivor.  Ms. Julie Risoldi has a theory of survival that goes like this.

"I'm not saying the love of a dog can save everyone from cancer spreading, but I do believe that the endorphins produced when hugging a furry friend creates a positive atmosphere inside the body that helps tremendously," says Ms. Risoldi.  My dog Willie D. made my journey more bearable.  I love his big brown eyes, and they gave me joy in a time when I really needed it.

People with cancer can become depressed when facing chemo, radiation, surgery and the gaunt of impending stressful testing.  The body produces stress hormones in response.  Ms. Risoldi believes when hugging an animal, the response is good for the body helping it to fight cancer.

Her conclusion:  Everyone needs something furry to snuggle during cancer.  Animals intrinsically know when someone is sick and suffering, and many offer the love necessary.

+Marietta Vet Clinic welcomes pet stories to the blog.  +Julian Peckich DVM invites new pets, both dogs and cats to become patients to the animal clinic.

Hot Item Holiday Raffle for Shelter Dogs and Cats

+Marietta Vet Clinic and +Verde Pointe Dental Associates have announced a raffle for shelter dogs and cats to be held Tuesday, December 23rd.

You could win one of these for a dollar!

The winner will receive a Philips DiamondClean Sonicare Toothbrush, and all proceeds will benefit Tigg Neuter Project, a Cobb County non-profit organization that spays and neuters shelter pets.

 The goal is to reduce the number of intake pets coming into the local shelter needing homes by continued efforts to spay and neuter.  

"Euthanizing healthy dogs and cats because they don't have a home is heart breaking.  We have joined efforts with Verde Pointe Dental Associates and the Tigg Neuter Project to make a difference," says Dr. +Julian Peckich DVM from Marietta Vet Clinic.  "Both offices are committed to help."

Dentists, +Kirk Kimmerling DDS, +Suzanna Aguilera DMD and +Garrick McGrath DMD have donated the toothbrush for the raffle, as it seems to be a hot item that people get excited about.

"Anyone can participate by stopping in either office and buying a ticket.  They are $1 for one chance to win, and $5 for 6 chances to win," say Dr. Peckich.  The winner gets to decide the color of brush they want: white, black or pink.  Each are the latest DiamondClean model with a sleek travel case and charger glass.

Both offices believe in community service, so they plan on devoting time and effort towards the unwanted animals of Cobb County and beyond.

If you are looking for a dentist or veterinarian in Marietta, look no further.  Both offices are located in the same office park at Verde Pointe Professional Park in Marietta, GA.

Pig Thrown Off Flight

It has become common place for airlines to accommodate animals on pedestrian flights.

Add caption

However, when a pet becomes unruly, it becomes a hazard.  A US Airways flight ordered a disruptive pig off the plane, when a passenger brought the pig for emotional support.  Both left the plane per Laura Masvidal, a spokeswoman for US Airways because of the disruptive behavior.

A fellow passenger, Jonathan Skolnik told the Associated Press that a duffel bag had an odor that clarified the situation.  "It's no duffel bag but a rather stout PIG...on a leash," he wrote in an email. "Am I dreaming."  He estimated the pig weighed between 50 to 70 lbs according to ABC News.

"The pig is incontinent," he told AP.  The animal was running back and forth on the plane, as the owner tried to clean up after her pig.

Emotional support animals are permitted on commercial flight only if thy are not disruptive, per the U.S. Department of Transportation, Masvidal said.

Contributing:  The Associated Press

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, +Julian Peckich DVM are happy to give advice on pets, dogs, cats, etc that are taking a flight soon.  The animal clinic can help make the flight better for the animal, the owner and others a board.  Also specializing in dog vaccinations, cat vaccinations, and general well care.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies Sold to Benefit Homeless Pets

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, +Julian Peckich DVM are at it again. The pet clinic has pumpkin spice cookies for a donation to the Tigg Neuter Project in the Marietta.

"Thanksgiving is a bountiful time for many, so we decided to offer delicious  pumpkin spice cookies, accepting donations to help Tigg Neuter Project with spay and neuter efforts," says Dr. Peckich.

The clinic has had successful fund raisers for needy animals before, so they plan to offer baked goods for a donation throughout the holiday season. 

Marietta Vet Clinic is happy to support the Tigg Neuter Project, as their mission is  to lower the number of intake animals at Marietta animal control through a spay/neuter campaign.  It is this same effort that Dr. Peckich whole-heartedly supports.

The pet clinic offers affordable pet vaccinations to cats, kittens, dogs and puppies.  

Dr. Julian Peckich DVM believes all pets can live a healthier, happier life with proper pet care.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies for
Shelter Dogs and Cats

Every Penny Helps the Shelter Pets

Americans Have Passion for Dogs Home and Abroad

Americans are known all over the world to be giving and compassionate nation, and the compassion doesn't stop with humans, it includes animals.

There are many American groups working on behalf of animals abroad.  Let's take a look at two, worthy of support.

A rescue organization is assisting the US military men and women in bringing home pets from war. The Puppy Rescue Mission, a non-profit organization out of Celina, Texas helps soldiers reunite with pets from abroad. Dogs are brought to America to live out their lives with the soldiers that love them. The mission has a heart for country and the furry.

The plight of stray dogs during the Sochi winter Olympics took the heart of millions of Americans. Ten lucky Russian dogs were brought to the USA via Washington's Dulles Airport this past March, thanks to the animal welfare group, Human Society International. Animal welfare groups have been able to work with Russian government for a more human way to deal with animal control.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian +Julian Peckich DVM salute animal advocacy groups.  It would be the animal clinics great pleasure to welcome new pets, meet the owners and take care of the animals. Welcoming dogs and cats, puppies and kittens to the pet clinic for dog vaccinations, cat vaccinations, general wellness exams, diagnostic testing, laboratory testing, and medical relief for sick animals.

Don't Look a Pink River Dolphin in the Eye

River dolphins with pink coloring swim the Amazon, Araguaia/Tocantis and Orinoco river basins of

South America.  Legend has it that making eye contact with the river dolphin will result in a lifetime of nightmares, and perhaps the intervention of a local shaman can help break the spell.

River dolphins are the largest fresh water dolphins in the world up to nine feet long and weighing up to 300 pounds.  Females are typically larger than males.  They are known for a light gray or carnation pink coloring and long beak with molar-like teeth.

If you have a dog or cat that is causing nightmares not by spell, but in behavior, Marietta Vet Clinic and Marietta veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM can help.  Specializing in healthcare, pet vaccinations, sick pet care for the dogs in cats in Marietta, GA.

Dog Named Adam Allergic to Humans

It is a known fact that some people are allergic to dogs, but a dog out of Indianapolis named Adam is

allergic to people, as told by the staff at Lucky Dog Retreat Rescue.  The rare condition has plagued the black lab, but thanks to a local veterinarian, help is on the way.

The rescue group has treated may dogs for heartworm and other devastating conditions, but this pup came as a surprise when it was declared allergic to people.  After Adam was declared free of fleas, given special veterinarian baths twice weekly, and fed he best food possible, the rescue group looked for a different answer.  

A local veterinarian gave Adam a blood test confirming the unique allergy to human dander.  A treatment, or special serum will be given and recovery expected.

If your pet has a skin condition that comes and goes, or just never clears up, perhaps time time for a trip to the veterinarian office.  Your vet can offer advice on what to do to help your dog.  Sometimes, simple recommendations such as food that can make a big difference in the quality of life. 

The shelter raised the money to save Adam. Donations to Lucky Dog Retreat Rescue can be given to the shelter in the name of Adam or other needy animals.

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, Julian Peckich DVM are happy to help dogs with allergy conditions.  Accepting new clients and their dogs with a full range of veterinary services. #MariettaVetClinic  #JulianPeckichDVM #JulianPeckich #VeterinaryServices.  #dogallergies 

Doggy Dating Show is a Big Hit in China

Chinese TV's Jiang Su TV has a doggy dating hit television show on their hands. 

The first dating show for dogs has proven a big hit in the country.  It's a spinoff from a human dating show, but for dogs.  The matchmaker program is out to impress other dogs and the owners.  Canines are dressed up while displaying special talents to put their best foot forward. Ironically, the dog's home and family life is apart of the show to help make the best choice. 


Special guests and judges keep the show lively, as the ratings are and have stayed high.  The Chinese are thrilled with the new show, as it's success is apparent.  It can be watched online at JSTV.

Perhaps the show will turn into a spinoff in the United States.  It's a way to have fun with the animals in which we share the world. 

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian +Julian Peckich DVM welcome new pets to the animal clinic.

Rescue Dogs Make the Best Sport Pals

Dogs Make Great Companions for Sporting Events

It's fall, and for many of us, the sports season has begun. If you are not the type to go to the games because you don't  like crowds, don't have the extra money, transportation, or just prefer to watch at home, this Marietta veterinarian has a suggestion for you. 

Get a rescue dog to share the games. No better friend than a dog to scream, hoot and holler with during the exciting moments. Animals of all sizes will love the weekly activity.

Adopting is the best way to get the best sports buddy you'll ever have.

Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian, +Julian Peckich DVM  has an affordable has an affordable pet vaccination clinic at his West Cobb office every Saturday from 9am to 1pm.  It's an affordable way to bring your new sports buddy home.

Recycling Feeds Stray Dogs and Cats in Istanbul

It's a new concept aimed at getting people to recycle and feed the local stray dogs.  Recycling

machines are now accepting people's bottles in Istanbul, Turkey and dispensing dog food and water at the bottom.  A company called Pugedon has been granted permission to accept bottle for recycle to pay for the dog food dispensed for strays at the bottom.

The new machine is aimed at feeding an overwhelming number of stray dogs and cats roaming the city.  With over 150,000 stray animals, Pugedon uses the profits to feed the animals.  Many local residents take upon themselves to also feed the dogs and cats.  

The machine is quite simple.  Every time someone dispenses a bottle, food automatically dispenses out the bottom. 

Strays in Instanbul have been a considerable problem for years.  Currently, authorities round up the cats and dogs for animal vaccinations, spay and neuter, then releases them back to the community.  Many of the residents enjoy the animals and others find them a nuisance.

The machines are not funded by the government, but by donations of bottles alone.  Perhaps the rest of the world could copy the novel idea.

Marietta Vet Clinic, veterinarian +Julian Peckich DVM applaude Pugedon for taking care of the stray cats and dogs in Istanbul.

A Zonkey Born in Crimean Zoo

A zebra and donkey produced a "zonkey" or "zebroid" at a zoo in the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea. 

The Taigan Zoo named the new arrival, Telegraph, as he has the brown body of a donkey and stripes on the legs of his zebra Mother.  Although this type of mating is rare, especially with the mother being a zebra, it is not unheard of.  Breeding of hybrids is usually frowned upon by the zoo community, as preserving species is a main concern.

The zebra was moved in with other hoofed animals after zoo officials determined her lonely.  She took to the donkey.  Telegraph was named after a local newspaper.  Telegraph is popular with visitors according to zoo director, Oleg Zubkrov.  Telegraph has made quite a splash around the world.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and +Julian Peckich DVM welcome new pets to the animal clinic.  Affordable pet vaccinations, dog vaccinations, cat vaccinations and pet care available.

"Telegraph is very popular with visitors" who can watch him romping around with his mother, according to zoo director Oleg Zubkov.

Read more at: http://phys.org/news/2014-08-telegraph-zonkey-born-crimean-zoo.html#jCp

"Telegraph is very popular with visitors" who can watch him romping around with his mother, according to zoo director Oleg Zubkov.

Read more at: http://phys.org/news/2014-08-telegraph-zonkey-born-crimean-zoo.html#jCp

Mysterious Creature Roams California Neighborhood

A strange "lion-like" beast has been caught on a surveillance camera in Norwalk, CA.  The animal has struck fear in the surrounding areas, as wild life experts have ruled out the mystery creature as a mountain lion.  The film footage has the community on high alert and taking precautions.

The footage shows the gate of the animal similar to a cat, however, the size is much larger.  Some believe it to be a dog such as a Rottweiler or pit bull.  It's been suggested that perhaps someone has the exotic pet illegally, and other have suggested that local construction has sent the creature into the neighborhood.

The goal is to capture the animal and put it in a safe place.  For the time being, everyone should take precaution in protecting themselves, their families and family pets. 

Diabetics are Happier and Healthier with a Service Dog

Canine constant companion dogs can be trained to alert people with diabetes of pending problems. These canine advocates are able to alert people when blood sugar is off even before they may know.  It helps remove worries such as collapsing before an insulin injection, or suffering a coma while asleep.

A canine constant companion is a highly trained dog that lives and travels with a diabetic person.  The dog alleviates some of the associated worry from the peaks and valleys.

Each dog is valued at about $30,000, however the recipients usually do not pay that high amount.  The dogs are extensively trained, and only a handful of facilities train such dogs. Dogs4Diabetics is one of those facilities.  Currently, they have placed 85 dogs with several more scheduled.  Applicants go through a month long process to get a dog, and most only pay a $150 application fee.

Although, service dogs are not for everyone, for those they serve, it's a great relationship both medically and psychologically.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian +Julian Peckich DVM understand the importance of keeping a service dog in peak health.  It would the the animal clinic's great pleasure to welcome service dogs to the veterinarian practice.

Weddings Are Now Including the Family Dog

More and more, weddings are including the family dog. It's a joyous occasion, so why not include everyone you love. Don't worry about others, it's your day, so make it your way!

You're Looking at the Best Man!

Statistics show that couples are waiting longer and longer to get married, and many already have a dog.  So, when a wedding takes place, it's hard not to include them.

Let's take a look what's happening at the weddings.

Many dogs are dressed in couture to match the wedding.

Many dogs are now the ring bearers, and walk down the isle.

A Few Tips to help the wedding run smoother.

Hire a dog sitters for the rehearsal dinner and day of the wedding. It'll help everything run smoother.

The dog sitter should feed the dog early in the day to lessen the likelihood of a bathroom disaster. 

The dog sitter should take the dog out for a long walk to released energy early in the day. 

Remember, not every dog is wedding material, especially those suffering anxiety, aggression or phobias. Perhaps having him in a few pictures could suffice.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and Marietta veterinarian +Julian Peckich welcome new patients to the animal clinic.  Seeing both dogs and cats at the Marietta location for spay and neuter, well care, pet vaccinations, sick pet care, in-home euthanasia, general wellness exams, medical relief for sick animals, spay and neuter clinic, pet teeth cleaning.  Appointments available.

Let Marietta Vet Clinic Brush Your Dog's Teeth with a Sonicare For Kids

Most pet owners realize that the family dog can benefit from excellent oral hygiene.  It not only gives your dog better breath, but overall better health.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian +Julian Peckich DVM  in conjunction with +Verde Pointe Dental Associates , +Kirk Kimmerling DDS and +Suzanna Aguilera are hosting the Philips Sonicare Toothbrush For Kids and Dogs Healthy Mouth Campaign July 4th Week.

The event offers free teeth brushing for dogs at the pet clinic with the Sonicare For Kids. It's a test run to see if your dog or puppy will tolerate the brushing before you purchase the brush.   "Many puppies do well if started at an early age,"

Verde Pointe Dental will offer demonstrations of the Sonicare For Kids to parents, as children come in for routine cleanings, exams and dental procedures.

Need more info on the event?  Click here for details.