We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Bichon Yorkie mix named Cookie.
Cookie is a super sweet 3-month-old puppy. He loves to play, kiss his human brother and sister, and he knows that mom is the boss of him. He follows mom around all day long and looks for her when she is not home.
Cookie is shy, but gentle with new people, a champion sleeper, and loves to learn new things!!! It took us a long time to get a puppy, but we hit the jackpot with this one!
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue
Here are some signs to watch for in your K9 if you suspect your K9 is losing their hearing. They can be any of the following:
1. Prolonged barking
2. Difficulty waking up.
3. Confusion when following familiar vocal commands.
4. Change in personality or obedience.
5. Repetitive head shaking or smelly discharge from ears.
Whether your dog is newly deaf due to aging, or because of an injury or illness these tips can help you prepare for the proper care needed for your K9.
If your dog is completely deaf, we recommend having a “custom” tag made for him/her stating “I am deaf”. You can also get a custom leash sleeve as well.
Your K9 will not be able to hear danger cues in his/her environment, such as other dogs growling or barking aggressively, therefore it is up to you to quickly remove your K9 from this situation.
It is also important to keep a close eye on your K9 when inside the house, to see where they are or if they have gotten into anything. We recommend putting a bell on their collar.
Letting your K9 smell unique items in and around your home will help create a positive experience. Your K9 will really depend on their sense of smell, especially outdoors and on their walks.
Most importantly do not startle your dog. Let them see you before entering the room. You can toss their favourite toy into the room beforehand to get their attention and to let them know you are there.
Some of our client’s use a flashlight to signal to their dog that they want their attention.
We suggest you DO NOT pet your K9 when they are sleeping. If you need to wake up your K9 we recommend placing food under their nose and step back, until they awake on their own.
Should you need any assistance with the proper hand signals to communicate to your dog, Paul will be able to assist you in this area.
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