Breaking up is hard to do …
By Gloria Towle
Guest Writer and CAHS Secretary
Special to the Star-Herald
Statistics show that there are now more households with dogs (43 million) than children (38 million). But unfortunately not all families stay together.
When marriages fail, it not only affects the children but pets as well. When the family pet is involved, things become more complicated.
The American Kennel Club offers tips on how to help your dog adjust to such a change. If you will share custody of your dog, it is important to help your dog get used to the time apart. When you leave, do so with a minimum of fuss and always greet him calmly. This will teach him that the separation is not something to be anxious about.
Keep a consistent schedule. Dogs can sense stress, so try to keep their schedule as normal as possible. Consistency is key — not only for responsible dog ownership, but also to prevent your pooch from becoming nervous.
A change of surroundings is common after a split. Whether you move or redecorate a formerly shared space, plan ahead to create an easier segue for your pooch. When looking for a new home, do an Internet search for pet-friendly realtors or ask your current realtor to keep your pooch in mind while searching for prospective homes. If you plan on redecorating, think about new additions for Fido too — whether it is the addition of a doggy door or pet-friendly flooring.
When introducing new people to your dog, know your dog’s comfort level. Wait to introduce Fido to your new friends or love interest. This will give you time to discuss your pup’s temperament and any behavioral concerns.
Dogs cannot talk to us when they are sick. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to pay special attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter season. These are a few gentle reminders:
• Antifreeze, which often collects on driveways and roadways, is highly poisonous. Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, it can be lethal;
• Rock salt, used to melt ice on sidewalks, may irritate footpads. Be sure to rinse and dry your dog’s feet after a walk;
• Provide plenty of fresh water. Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water;
• Frostbite is your dog’s winter hazard. To prevent frostbite on its ears, tail and feet, don’t leave your dog outdoors for too long;
• Be very careful of supplemental heat sources. Fireplaces and portable heaters can severely burn your dog. Make sure all fireplaces have screens, and keep portable heaters out of reach;
• Like people, dogs seem to be more susceptible to illness in the winter. Take your dog to a veterinarian if you see any suspicious symptoms; and
• Don’t use over-the-counter medications on your dog without consulting a veterinarian.
If you are looking for a friend for life, please stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society at 26 Cross St. in Presque Isle. We are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. You can visit us online at www.centralaroostookhumanesociety.org or look for us on Facebook.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
