The Urban Dog

How to Solve Barking Problems

2008-07-21T13:30:00.001-06:00

Excessive barking is nothing new. Dogs appear to enjoy barking, and they do so for various reasons. They bark when they want something, when they say “hello,” when they are having fun, when they are startled or alarmed, when they are defending their territory or threatening someone, when they are frustrated, and when they hear other dogs barking. Unfortunately, a dog who barks incessantly can drive the family crazy—and disturb the entire neighborhood.

Many owners can identify why their dog is barking, just by hearing the specific bark. If you want to reduce your dog’s barking, it is imperative to determine the dog’s reason for barking. Understand that it usually takes time to teach a dog to bark less. It is not realistic to expect a quick fix or to expect that the dog will stop barking altogether. Your goal should be to decrease the amount of barking. Bear in mind that some dogs are more prone to barking than others. In addition, some breeds are known as “barkers,” and it may be more difficult to decrease barking in individuals of these breeds.

The most common reasons why dogs bark: Territorial or protective defense
- Distress vocalizations due to fear or separation anxiety
- Excitement or greeting
- During play
- To gain attention or to make requests
- Frustration
- Socially facilitated barking (hearing other dogs bark)
- Compulsive behavior

WHAT NOT TO DO:
- Do not encourage the dog to bark at passers by or people coming to the door (by saying, “Who’s there?,” for example, or getting up and looking out the window, you are encouraging the dog to bark).
- Do not punish the dog for barking at certain sounds (car doors slamming, kids playing in the street) while encouraging him to bark at other sounds (people at the door). You must be consistent!
- Never use punishment procedures for a dog who is barking from fear or anxiety, unless on the advice of a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or Veterinary Behaviorist. This could make the dog feel worse, which could in turn cause the barking to escalate.
- Never use a muzzle or HusherTM to keep a dog quiet for long periods of time or while a dog is unsupervised. As the dog cannot eat, drink, or cool himself while wearing a muzzle, this would be extremely cruel.
- Never tie a dog’s muzzle closed with rope, cord, or rubber bands. This is dangerous, painful, and inhumane.

Territorial Barking
Dogs who bark to alert others to the presence of visitors and/or to scare off intruders use what is called an alarm bark. They bark when they see or hear people coming to the door, and they may even react to the sights and sounds of people and dogs passing by the home. Some dogs are especially raucous when they see people or dogs from the car. You should be able to judge from your dog’s body posture and behavior whether he’s barking to say “Welcome, come on in!” or “Hey, I see you and you’d better hit the road, you’re not welcome at my place.” If you’re dealing with a dog in the first category, follow the steps outlined for greeting barking. If you’re dealing with a dog in the latter category who isn’t friendly to people, you will likely be more successful teaching the dog to associate the presence of strangers and passersby with good things, such as food and attention (see Counter Conditioning Instructions, below). If you think your dog poses a threat to people near your property or visitors to your home, seek assistance from a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, a Veterinary Behaviorist, or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer.

WHAT TO DO:
- Prevent the dog from being exposed to the things that trigger him to bark. You should block access to windows, and cover them so he can’t see out. Play background music to mask outside sounds, change the sound of your doorbell, and bring him in from the yard whenever he barks.
- Counter Conditioning Instructions #1: If the dog continues to bark despite your efforts to block his exposure to things, teach him that when someone comes to the door or passes by the property, he is permitted to bark until you say “Quiet.” Allow him to bark 3-4 times, say “Quiet,” (avoid shouting), go to the dog and gently hold his muzzle closed with your hand and repeat “Quiet,” call him away from the door or window, ask him to sit, and give him a treat. If he stays beside you and remains quiet, continue to give him frequent treats for the next few minutes (until the stimulus is gone). If he resumes barking right away, repeat the sequence. Go through the same steps if the dog is barking at passersby from the yard.
- Counter Conditioning Instructions #2: If the above procedure is ineffective after 10-20 attempts, allow the dog to bark 3-4 times, say “Quiet” (avoid shouting), and make a startling noise by shaking an empty soda can filled with pennies or a set of keys. He should react to the sound by stopping what he’s doing. Call him away from the door or window, ask him to sit, and give him a treat. If he stays beside you and remains quiet, continue to give him frequent treats for the next few minutes (until the stimulus is gone). If he resumes barking right away, repeat the sequence. If this doesn’t work after 10-20 attempts, you will need to seek assistance from a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, a Veterinary Behaviorist, or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer.
- Counter Conditioning Instructions #3: If the dog barks at people and other dogs during walks, distract the dog with special treats before he begins to bark. Show the dog the treats by holding them in front if his nose (soft treats are best) and encourage him to nibble at the treats while he is walking along, past the person or dog who would normally cause him to bark. Some dogs do best if you ask them to sit as the person/dog passes by, while other dogs prefer to keep moving. Make sure you praise and reward the dog with treats every time he elects not to bark.
- It may help to have the dog wear a head halter during occasions when the dog is likely to bark (on walks, in the home, etc.). Your dog should only wear the halter when you can supervise him. A halter can have a distracting and/or calming effect, and make him less likely to bark. Make sure you reward him for not barking.
- If the dog is engaging in territorial barking primarily in the yard, keep the dog in the house during the day and supervise him when he is in the yard.
- If the dog is engaging in territorial barking in the car, teach the dog to ride in a crate while in the car. This restricts the dog’s view and may reduce his motivation to bark. If this is not feasible, try having the dog wear a head halter.

Greeting Barking
If your dog barks at people coming to the door, at people or dogs walking by the property, at people or dogs he sees on walks, and at people or dogs he sees through the fence—and the barking is accompanied by whining, tail wagging, and other signs of friendliness—your dog is barking to say hello. He may very likely bark in the same manner when family members come home.

WHAT TO DO:
- Keep greetings low key. Teach the dog to sit and stay when meeting people at the door so he has something to do aside from barking. This should reduce his excitement.
- If your dog likes toys, keep a favorite toy near the front door and encourage your dog to pick up the toy before he greets you or guests. If the dog learns to hold a toy in his mouth, he’s less inclined to bark. He will likely still whine, though.
- On walks, teach your dog to walk calmly past people and dogs without greeting them. To do this, follow the Counter Conditioning Instructions #3, above.

Play Barking
Some dogs are particularly noisy when they play with people or with other dogs. If you have multiple dogs and they like to bark while they play, put them outside so they don’t bother you. If they bother the neighbors, bring them inside and separate them during times when you can’t tolerate the barking. Encourage the dogs to play with toys so they have something in their mouths. If your dog barks while playing with you, simply play different games—if he barks while wrestling with you, teach him to play tug-of-war or fetch games. It’s unfair to expect dogs not to play, so make arrangements for your dog to play (and bark) at times when it won’t disturb people.

Attention Seeking/Making Requests
One of the reasons why we love dogs is that they are so expressive. Dogs find ways to let us know their needs, and often this is by barking or whining. Indeed, we find it desirable when the dog barks to ask to go outside to eliminate, or to request that his water bowl be filled. It is less desirable, however, when the dog barks to demand anything and everything, needed or not! This pattern of barking does not happen by accident; a demanding, noisy dog has been taught to be this way! If you want your dog to cease and desist, it is imperative that you consistently stop rewarding the dog for barking. Instead of trying to determine why the dog is barking, you will have to ignore the dog for barking. You may elect to stare at the ceiling, turn away from the dog, or walk out of the room. The instant the dog stops barking, you need to give the dog what he wants, whether that be attention, play, to go outside, to come in, etc. The exception to this is the dog who barks to request food—no dog should be reinforced for demanding food/treats/chew bones. That’s just plain rude! In order to be successful, you must never, ever reward the dog for barking at you again! In some cases, it is easiest to teach the dog an alternative behavior. For instance, if you don’t want the dog to bark when he needs to go out or come in, get a doggy door installed or teach the dog to ring a bell. If your dog barks to get you to play with him, teach him to bring a toy and sit in front of you. Sometimes, it’s easier to avoid problems. If your dog barks to ask you to retrieve his toys from under the sofa, fill up the space so the toys don’t get stuck beyond his reach. If your dog barks at you when you speak on the telephone or work on the computer, give him a tasty chew bone to occupy him before he starts to bark.

Excitement/Frustration Barking
Dogs often bark when they find themselves excited but thwarted from getting something they want. This could be the dog in the yard barking because he wants to get out and play with the children in the street, the dog who barks and runs the fence line with the dog next door, the dog who barks by the patio door as he watches a cat or squirrel frolicking in his yard, the dog who barks at his owner to hurry up and get his leash and go for that walk…. The most effective means of discouraging excitement/frustration barking is to teach the dog to control his impulses through obedience training. The dog is taught to wait, sit and stay before gaining access to fun activities, such as walks, playing with other dogs, or chasing squirrels. This can be a daunting task and you may need to recruit the assistance of a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. You can also discourage the presence of cats and other animals in your yard by using motion-activated devices to startle intruders, including the Critter GitterTM, the ScarecrowTM, or the ScraminalTM.

Socially Facilitated Barking
Dogs are social animals and they are prompted to bark when they hear others barking, whether in real life or on TV. You can discourage this tendency by keeping your dog indoors when other dogs are barking, by playing music to drown out the sound of other dogs, and by distracting your dog with treats or play when other dogs bark.

Compulsive Barking
There are occasional compulsive barkers who bark in situations that are not considered normal or bark in a repetitive, rigid fashion. If your dog barks repeatedly for long periods of time, apparently at nothing, he may be a compulsive barker. If your dog repeatedly barks at things that would not bother other dogs, such as shadows, light flashes, mirrors, open doors, the sky, etc., you may have a compulsive barker. If your dog also engages in other stereotypical behaviors while barking, such as spinning, circling, or jumping, he may be a compulsive barker. A good first step may be to make a change in his lifestyle. For instance, if the dog is tied up, try keeping him loose in a safe fenced area. If the dog is left alone for long periods of time, increase his exercise, mental stimulation and social contact.

If you suspect your dog is a compulsive barker, please seek assistance from a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or a Veterinary Behaviorist; his condition may require drug therapy.

A Few Words on Anti-Bark Collars
First and foremost: Anti-bark collars are punishment devices and are not recommended as a first choice for dealing with a barking problem, especially if the barking is motivated by fear, anxiety or compulsion. Before resorting to an anti-bark collar, you should seek advice from a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, a Veterinary Behaviorist, or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer.

There are a variety of devices designed to teach a dog to curtail barking. Most often, these are collars that deliver an unpleasant stimulus when the dog barks. The stimulus might be a loud noise, an ultrasonic noise, a spray of citronella mist, or a brief electric shock. The collars that deliver noise are ineffective with most dogs. One study found that the citronella collar was as effective for eliminating barking as the electronic collar, and more positively received by owners. Collars that work on a microphone system to pick up the sound of a dog’s bark should not be used in a multi-dog home because any dog’s bark can activate the collar. Note that virtually all dogs become “collar-wise,” and will learn not to bark while wearing the collar.

Common Household Toxins for Pet

2008-07-18T22:09:00.004-06:00

Common Household Toxins

Antifreeze
Symptoms: Depression, stumbling, staggering, vomiting, and seizures

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Symptoms: Excessive drooling, vomiting, weakness and abdominal pain

Insecticides
Symptoms: Excessive drooling, weeping eyes, excessive urination, diarrhea, muscle spasms, weakness, difficulty breathing and collapse

Household Cleaners (toilet bowl cleaners,pine oil cleaner, bleach, detergents)
Symptoms: Skin irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, internal organ damage, bloody vomit, bloody stools

Flea products
Symptoms: Decreased appetite, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling

The Urban Dog & The Edmonton Sun

2008-07-17T00:47:00.000-06:00

Meiko has been a model in The Sun newspaper. He has appeared in ads and featured stories.

Most recent is an excerpt from an article; Albertans are among the biggest spenders for Halloween celebrations by Cary Castagna, Sun October 28, 2007

" Of course, children and adults aren't the only ones dressing up for Halloween.

Pet owners are outfitting their animals, too.

"It's extremely popular. People get a new costume every year for their pet," said Laurel Kostuk, co-owner of The Urban Dog on Whyte Avenue, where pet costumes range from $40 to 55.

"People will spend that without a question. It's not a big-ticket item and it makes everybody happy."

TOP-SELLING ITEMS

Among the top sellers is the Barkenstein costume for dogs, complete with a bone through the head.

Kostuk said she also has costumes for cats, ferrets and guinea pigs. She recently sold a pig costume to a man with a pot-bellied pig.

"His pig was a pig for Halloween," she said with a laugh. "

----------
Dog owners unleash playoff 'pride'
Canine Oilers gear a fashion statement for the fan who stops at nothing

Ben Gelinas
The Edmonton Journal

Thursday, April 20, 2006

ANOTHER RABID OILERS FAN: Meiko exhibits the latest sign of NHL playoff fan-demonium: a line of Oilers-wear for the pooch in your hockey pool.
CREDIT: Shaughn Butts, The Journal
ANOTHER RABID OILERS FAN: Meiko exhibits the latest sign of NHL playoff fan-demonium: a line of Oilers-wear for the pooch in your hockey pool.

EDMONTON - Lance Kirschner's wife likes to dress up their tiny black Pomeranian, Annie.

"But I'm the one who has to walk her," Kirschner says. "And in my neighbourhood, there are a lot of construction workers."

Annie might like to try an Oilers jersey on her next morning stroll.

At the Urban Dog, a "canine couture" store on Whyte Avenue, pint-sized Meiko is doing just that on Wednesday with some of the store's latest stock: an Oilers jersey and matching bandana made just for dogs.

Laurel Kostuk, a co-owner of the store, put up a wall of Oilers stuff during the day for the bichon/Shih-Tzu/Yorkie cross to model. There are bucket hats, sheer white jerseys, ever-popular bandanas and fleece-lined windbreakers sporting the team's logo to celebrate the impending playoff run. Collars and leashes are coming soon.

Sizes range from impossibly small to small-h husky.

Smaller dogs can wear it all for under $100, Kostuk says. "Oilered up from head to toe. Go Oilers, go."

The majority of the Urban Dog's customers are women, Kostuk says. They buy the tracksuits and tutus and little sneakers.

But the Oilers gear is different. Its appeal doesn't seem to fall along gender lines. It's not about cute -- "it's pride," Kostuk says.

When it comes to hockey, true fans will do anything to show their support, even if it means dressing up their Yorkies like crazed superfans.

Kostuk asks: "Meiko, are the Oilers your favourite team?" Meiko sniffs. Coughs. Then barks. "Is that a yes?" Meiko barks again.

"See? He said yes," Kostuk says.

She has painted Meiko's nails metallic silver, and the dog's Oilers-orange Mohawk, gelled in place, stands at attention.

But Meiko doesn't seem to mind being dolled up. What's a little style when you're fed bits of roast chicken to jump around for customers all day?

Now, as the first playoff game looms, Meiko's due for a makeover, Kostuk says. His orange fur will be dyed blue to match co-owner Raymond Parker's hair.

"There's no bigger Oiler fan than Ray," Kostuk says.

Parker is prepping the store. He'll have the TV up loud for every game. The store window will bear the painted logo Go Oilers, Go, and a cartoon Meiko in the corner, dancing in Oilers colours.

"When I was eight, I had a border collie-Lab cross," Parker says. "I used to put him in my jerseys, but they never fit properly and he'd pee on them."

Meiko's housebroken.

CREDIT: Shaughn Butts, The Journal
ANOTHER RABID OILERS FAN: Meiko exhibits the latest sign of NHL playoff fan-demonium: a line of Oilers-wear for the pooch in your hockey pool.

Breaking News Bulletin Petnapping

2008-07-16T05:17:00.000-06:00

On June 24 2008... A pampered feline, by the name of Dipity, jumped out from within owner Kelly Abercrombie's parked vehicle at the South Common mall in Edmonton AB as Kelly had quickly stopped into Second Cup to conduct business. Witnesses claim that they had saw two people take Dipity and drive away. Rightfully so, Kelly has been put in a state of horror and severe stress. Dipity is microchipped and also has contact information upon her collar.

The frantic cat owner, Kelly, has since peppered the local online ads and posted up 'wanted' placards for the safe return of her beloved cat, Dipity. Kelly has graciously offered a reward to be reunited with her missing feline.

Although no solid leads have come about, Kelly did say that she received word of an anonymous contact that stated Dipity was specifically stolen due to wearing a pink polka dot dress. Kelly stated, "Apparently, this person (female) thinks putting clothes on an animal is cruel." Kelly also said that the woman apparently vowed to take the cat to a farm. Kelly adds, "She knows my name and she knows that this kitty has a family." There have been the typical cruel replies to her ads in which one fellow claims to be holding her cat for ransom in South Africa. "He claimed he picked up Dipity on the street and didn't know what to do with her but to take her on the plane", Kelly goes on to state, "He demanded thousands of dollars for her return."

This is one of Kelly's ads:

On JUNE 24th,2008 a YOUNG WOMAN took my cat Dipity from the PARKING LOT of BOSTON PIZZA, SOUTH EDMONTON COMMON.

She told witnesses she was taking my cat to a 'farm'. They seemed to think that she was doing this out of a kind of protest to my cat's dress.

Then she drove off with my pet in her PICK-UP TRUCK. Witnesses describe the young woman as about 5'2", thin, with light brown hair, and aged between 17-21.

To this young woman I would like to say this:

Dipity shares her life with two other cats. They have both been suffering enormous distress since Dipity disappeared.

Also, if the reason you took the cat is because you felt the dress was abusive, I would like to point out the safety benefits...if you are willing to listen.

You can either contact me directly or take her to the City Pound, a shelter, or any vet. They can scan the microchip and then contact me. I emplore you to reconsider your decision to take this cat from her family.

I would like this woman to know that Dipity shares her life with two other cats. They have both been suffering enormous distress since Dipity disappeared.

I would appreciate it if this young woman would either contact me directly or take her to the City Pound, a shelter, or any vet. If you do any of these, you can avoid criminal charges.

I implore you to reconsider your decision to take this cat from her family.You are causing enormous distress and you are taking a huge risk. If someone else reports seeing the cat, I cannot come to your house and ask for her back. I will have no choice but to inform police.

They will come to your home, take the cat back....AND they will arrest and charge you with 'criminal theft under $5000'.

We already have eye witnesses who can identify you. Remember the two ladies you spoke to as you left Boston Pizza with my cat? They saw an article in the newspaper and contacted me.

For everyone else, please keep an eye out for this STOLEN FAMILY PET. Please contact me if you have any information.

You can also provide information ANONYMOUSLY by calling CRIMESTOPPERS at 1-800-222-TIPS.

I am also offering a reward of $300 dollars to anyone who reports the correct whereabouts of this cat to the police. They may be contacted at 780-423-4567 and the file number is Occurrence No.08-83513.

Thank you!!

* Along with Kelly's reward offer of $300.00, The Urban Dog is raising the reward with an additional $700.00 dollars to promptly solve this case. $1000.00 to save Dipity from her alleged petnappers! *

Mostly likely a cruel capnapping and besides a specifically cretinous intended scam, this story leaves us to wonder about society. Is it so bad that a cat has a dress on, an ever so loved pet AKA family member, that Dipity was stolen because the cat was being saved from cruelty? I dare to think not. There are far too many abandoned and ill-treated animals out there that do not even compare in regards to swaying this narrator's humble opinion, I dare say. Even so, the cat wore an article of material to distinguish her from other felines. To think of Kelly's plight turns my stomach as I can only imagine my own pet being abducted. Lest us not forget about the children involved. Kelly adds, "There are little kids involved who want their kitty back."

Oh yes, these alleged thefts are widespread. There have been many petnappings around the city, mostly centered around expensive canine breeds being heisted from yards or even acquired by forcible means. How do people justify stealing an animal for sometimes a money making venture, to kidnap a member of one's family? Disgusting, absolutely disgusting. Myself, I do not understand the concept of theft. Be it a monetary item or a creature, it is a failure of humanity in my perspective.

Why do dogs eat poop?!

2008-07-16T05:06:00.000-06:00

Most people who own pets have probably experienced their animal eating poop!
I was fortunate enough when Meiko was a pup, he did not have the need to eat his own poop. There were and (and sometimes now) a few times I did catch him trying to get an extra sniff or lick of cat, rabbit or bird droppings when he was a pup.

This "eating habit" for pets is not unusual. "Coprophagous" is the official name for this behavior, and originated from wild dogs thousands of years ago. This behavior of eating feces was normal way back then as it was used to keep their offspring nest clean. Yes, as gross as it sounds, many dogs (mostly females now) now today still do this, and it is normal. There are many other reasons why dogs like to hunt for feces from other animals such as cows, rabbits and cats, as they contain different nutrients other than their own(and apparently tastes good).

If you want to ensure your dog doesn't get into the habit of the taste of his or other animals poop you must prevent this behavior when they are young by supervising them. Keep your yard clean, watch him/her when they are in the yard, and pull them way when they are close or sniffing the poo.

There are some breeds in particular like Dachshunds who like to hide or burrow their feces and eat it later. I am not trying to pick on that particular breed, however, Dachshunds like to burrow, and they are known for this habit. If your dog has bad breath, it could because they are eating poop! We had a customer who happened to have a Dachshund with bad breath. She assured us her dog did not eat poop. Well, was she surprised when she was spying on her dog when it went outside to poop. The dog was hiding the poop and eating it when they thought the owner was not looking!

Thank goodness for breath spray, toothbrushes and toothpaste for dogs. There are many pet products on the market that may help you with this problem. The commercial solutions that can be added to your pets food may make the food less appetizing. Switching dog or cat food can also made a big difference. Cat food tends to be a bit higher in protein, dogs love protein and dogs seem to love eating cat poo! I have had some success with people feeding their pet plain yogurt. I guess it changes the taste of the poop enough to make it not as appealing to digest.

The poop eating could also be caused by dog's being bored or they may have other health conditions. If all else fails, put a muzzle on your dog if they are alone and unsupervised around feces! If they can't open their mouth, they can't eat it.

Non Toxic Plants for Pets

2008-04-26T13:28:00.000-06:00

This list contains plants that have not been reported as having systemic effects on animals or as having intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Any plant material ingested by an animal (as when dogs and cats ingest yard grass) may produce signs of vomiting, depression, or diarrhea. These signs are generally mild and self-limiting and often do not require any treatment.

Please note that the information contained in our plant lists is not meant to be all-inclusive, but rather a compilation of the most frequently encountered plants.

A
- Achira
- Acorn squash
- African violet
- Algaroba
- Aluminum plant
- Alumroot
- American rubber
- Anthericum comosum
- Antirrhinum multiflorum
- Arabian gentian
- Aregelia
- Artillery plant
- Aspidium falcatum
- Autumn olive

B
- Bachelors buttons
- Ball fern
- Bamboo
- Bamboo palm
- Bamboo vine
- Banana
- Banana squash
- Begonia species
- Belmore sentry palm
- Big shellbark hickory
- Bitter pecan
- Bitternut
- Black haw
- Black hawthorn
- Blaspheme vine
- Bloodleaf
- Blooming sally
- Bluebottle
- Blue bead
- Blue daisy
- Blue echeveria
- Blue-dicks
- Blue-eyed daisy
- Blunt leaf peperomia
- Blushing bromeliad
- Bold sword fern
- Boston fern
- Bottlebrush
- Bottle Palm
- Brazilian orchid
- Bride's bonnet
- Bristly greenbrier
- Broom hickory
- Brodiaea pulchella
- Butterfly ginger
- Butterfly iris
- Bullbrier
- Bur gourd
- Burro's tail
- Buttercup squash
- Butterfly squash

C
- Caeroba
- Calathea insignis
- Calthea lancifolia
- California pitcher plant
- Callistemon bradyandrus
- Callistemon viminalis
- Callistemon citrinus
- Calochortus nuttalli
- Camellia
- Canada hemlock
- Canary date palm
- Candle plant
- Candycorn plant
- Canna lily
- Cantebury-bell
- Cape jasmine
- Cape primrose
- Carob
- Carob tree
- Caroba
- Carobinha
- Carolina hemlock
- Carrion flower
- Carrot flower
- Carrot fern
- Casaba melon
- Cast Iron plant
- Cat brier
- Cat ear
- Cattleya labiata
- Celosia globosa
- Celosia plumosa
- Celosia spicata
- Chamaedorean
- Chaparral
- Chenille plant
- Chestnut
- Chicken-gizzard
- Chickens and hens
- Chin-lao-shu
- China aster
- China root
- Chinese plumbago
- Chlorophytum
- Chlorophytum bechetii
- Chocolate soldier
- Christmas dagger
- Christmas palm
- Christmas orchid
- Cinnamon
- Cinquefoil
- Cirrhopetalum
- Clearweed
- Cliff brake
- Cocks comb
- Cocktail orchid
- Collinia elegans
- Color-band
- Columnar
- Common camellia
- Common catbrier
- Common garden canna
- Common greenbrier
- Common snapdragon
- Common staghorn fern
- Confederate jasmine
- Coolwort
- Copperlead
- Copper rose
- Coralardisia
- Coral bells
- Coralberry
- Cornflower
- Crape myrtle
- Creeping charlie
- Creeping gloxinia
- Creeping mahonia
- Creeping pilea
- Creeping rubus
- Creeping zinnia
- Crepe myrtle
- Crimson bottlebush
- Crimson cup
- Crisped feather fern
- Crossandra
- Cucumber
- Cushon aloe
- Cushion moss
- Cyrtudeira reptans

D
- Dainty
- Dainty rabbits-foot fern
- Dallas fern
- Dancing doll orchid
- Davallia bullata mariessi
- Davallia trichomanoides
- Desert trumpet
- Dichelostemma
- Dichorisandra reginae
- Dinteranthus vanzylii
- Duffii fern
- Duffy fern
- Dwarf date palm
- Dwarf feather fern
- Dwarf palm
- Dwarf Rose-Stripe Star
- Dwarf royal palm
- Dwarf whitman fern

E
- Earth star
- Easter cattleya
- Easter daisy
- Easter lily cactus
- Easter orchid
- Edible banana
- Elephant-Ear Begonia
- Emerald ripple peperomia
- English hawthorn
- Epidendrum atropurpeum
- Epidendrum ibaguense
- Epidendrum
- Episcia spp.

F
- False aralia
- Fairy fountain
- Fan tufted palm
- Feather fern
- Feathered amaranth
- Fiery reed orchid
- Fig leaf gourd
- Figleaf palm
- Fingernail plant
- Fire weed
- Fish tail fern
- Flame african violet
- Flame of the woods
- Flame violet
- Florida butter-fly orchid
- Fluffy ruffles
- Forster sentry palm
- Fortunes palm
- Freckle face
- Friendship plant
- Frosty

G
- Garden marigold
- Garden snapdragon
- German violet
- Gherkins
- Ghost leafless orchid
- Ghost plant
- Giant aster
- Giant holly fern
- Giant white inch plant
- Gibasis geniculata
- Globe thistle
- Gloxinia
- Gold bloom
- Gold-fish plant
- Golden bells
- Golden lace orchid
- Golden shower orchid
- Good luck palm
- Grape hyacinth
- Grape Ivy
- Great willow herb
- Green ripple peperomia
- Greenbrier
H
- Hagbrier
- Hardy baby tears
- Hardy gloxinia
- Haws
- Haws apple
- Haworthia
- Hawthorn
- Hedgehog gourd
- Hellfetter
- Hemlock tree
- Hen and chickens fern
- Hens and chickens
- Hickory
- Hindu rope plant
- Holligold
- Holly fern
- Hollyhock
- Honey locust
- Honey plant
- Honeydew melons
- Honeysuckle fuchsia
- Hookera pulchella
- Horse brier
- Hoya carnosa 'exotica'
- Hoya carnosa 'krinkle'
- Hoya carnosa 'variegata'
- Hoya 'Mauna Loa'
- Hubbard squash
- Hypocyrta spp.

I
- Ice plant
- Imbricata sword fern
- Irish moss
- Iron cross begonia
- Iron tree
- Ivy peperomia
- Ivy-leaf peperomia

J
- Jackson brier
- Jacob's ladder
- Japanese aralia
- Japanese holly fern
- Japanese moss
- Japanese pittosporum
- Jasmine
- Jewel orchid
- Joseph's coat
- Jungle geranium

K
- Kaempferis
- Kahali ginger
- Kenilworth ivy
- Kentia palm
- Kenya palm
- Kenya violet
- Kharoub
- King nut
- King of the forest
- King and queen fern
- Kuang-yen- pa-hsieh

L
- Lace flower vine
- Lace orchid
- Ladies ear drops
- Lady lou
- Lady palm
- Lagerstroemia indica
- Lance Pleumele
- Large
- Lady Palm
- Laurel-leaved greenbrier
- Leather peperomia
- Leng-fen tu'an
- Leopard lily
- Leopard orchid
- Lesser snapdragon
- Lily of the valley orchid
- Linden
- Lipstick plant
- Little zebra plant
- Little fantasy peperomia
- Living rock cactus
- Living stones
- Locust pods
- Lou-lang-t'ou
- Luther

M
- Madagascar jasmine
- Magnolia bush
- Mahonia aquifolium
- Malabar gourd
- Malaysian dracaema
- Manila palm
- Mapleleaf begonia
- Maranta
- Marbled fingernail
- Mariposa lily
- Maroon
- Mary-bud
- Measles plant
- Melons
- Metallic peperomia
- Metallic leaf begonia
- Mexican firecracker
- Mexican rosettes
- Mexican snowballs
- Miniature date palm
- Minature fish tail
- Minature maranta
- Minature marble plant
- Mistletoe cactus
- Mockernut hickory
- Mosaic plant
- Mosiac vase
- Moss agate
- Moss campion
- Moss fern
- Moss phlox
- Moss rose
- Mossy campion
- Mother fern
- Mother spleenwort
- Mother of pearl
- Mountain camellia
- Mountain grape
- Mulberry bush greenbrier
- Mulberry tree
- Musa paradisiaca
- Muscari armeniacum
- Muscari spp.
- Muskmellon

N
- Narrow leafed pleomele
- Natal plum
- Neanthe bella palm
- Nematanthus spp.
- Neanthebella
- Neoregelia
- Nephrolepsis
- Nerve plant
- New silver and bronze
- Night blooming cereus

O
- Odontoglossum spp.
- Old man cactus
- Old world orchid
- Orange star
- Oregon grape
- Ossifragi vase

P
- Paddys wig
- Painted lady
- Palm lily
- Pampus grass
- Panamiga
- Pansy orchid
- Paradise palm
- Parlor palm
- Parlor plant
- Parsley fern
- Peace begonia
- Peacock plant
- Pearl plant
- Pearly dots
- Peperomia hederifolia
- Peperomia peltifolia
- Peperomia rotundifolia
- Peperomia sandersii
- Pepper face
- Persian violet
- Pheasant plant
- Piggy back plant
- Pigmy date palm
- Pignut
- Pignut hickory
- Pilea microphylla
- Pilea mucosa
- Pink Brocade
- Pink Pearl
- Pink polka dot plant
- Pink starlite
- Pirliteiro
- Pitaya
- Plantanus orientalis
- Plantanus occidentalis
- Platinum peperomia
- Platycerium alicicorne
- Plumbago larpentiae
- Plush plant
- Polka dot plant
- Polystichum falcatum
- Pony tail
- Porcelain flower
- Pot marigold
- Prairie lily
- Prairie snowball
- Prayer plant
- Prickly bottlebrush
- Prostrate coleus
- Purple baby tears
- Purple passion vine
- Purple waffle plant
- Purpleosier willow

Q
- Queen's spiderwort
- Queencup
- Queens spiderwort
- Queensland arrowroot

R
- Rabbits foot fern
- Rainbow orchid
- Red african violet
- Red berried greenbrier
- Red edge peperomia
- Red hawthorne
- Red palm lily
- Red veined prayer
- Reed palm
- Resurrection lily
- Rex begonia
- Rhynchophorum
- Ribbon plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Roosevelt fern
- Royal velvet plant
- Rubber plant, baby
- Russian olive

S
- Saffron spike zebra
- Saint Bernards lily
- Sand lily
- Sand verbena
- Satin pellionia
- Sawbrier
- Scabious
- Scarborough lily
- Scarlet orchid
- Scarlet sage
- Sego lily
- Shagbark hickory
- Shan ku'ei-lai
- Shellbark hickory
- Shiny leaf smilax
- Shrimp cactus
- Silver bell
- Silver berry
- Silver heart
- Silver-leaf peperomia
- Silver nerve plant
- Silver pink vine
- Silver star
- Silver table fern
- Silver tree anamiga
- Slender deutzia
- Small fruited hickory
- Smilax tamnoides vas
- Speckled wood lily
- Spice orchid
- Spider ivy
- Spider plant
- Spotted laurel
- Squarenut
- Squirrels foot fern
- Star jasmine
- Star lily
- Star plant
- Star tulip
- Star window plant
- Strawberry
- Striped blushing
- Sugar pods
- Sulfur flower
- Summer hyacinth
- Swedish ivy
- Sweetheart hoya
- Sweetheart peperomia
- Sweet william
- Sword fern

T
- Tahitian bridal veil
- Tailed orchid
- Tall feather fern
- Tall mahonia
- Teasel gourd
- Texas sage
- Thea japonica
- Thimble cactus
- Thorn apple (Carateagus oxyacanth)
- Ti hu-ling
- Tiger orchid
- Toad spotted cactus
- Torch lily
- Tous-les-mois
- Trailing peperomia
- Tree cactus
- Tree gloxinia
- Tropical moss
- True cantalope
- Tu fu-ling
- Tulip poplar
- Tulip tree
- Turban squash
- Turf lily

U
- Umbrella plant
- Urbinia agavoides
- Usambara violet

V
- Variegated laurel
- Variegated oval leaf peperomia
- Variegated wandering jew
- Variegated wax plant
- Velvet plant
- Venus fly trap
- Verona fern
- Verona lace fern
- Vining peperomia
- Violet slipper gloxinia

W
- Waffle plant
- Walking anthericum
- Washington hawthorn
- Water hickory
- Watermelon begonia
- Watermelon peperomia
- Watermelon pilea
- Wax plant
- Wax rosette
- Weeping bottlebrush
- Weeping sergeant hemlock
- Weisdornbluten
- West indian gherkin
- Western sword
- White ginger
- White edged swedish ivy
- White heart hickory
- Whitman fern
- Wild buckwheat
- Wild buckwheat
- Wild hyacinth
- Wild lantana
- Wild sarsaparilla
- Wild strawberry
- Willow herb
- Windmill palm
- Winter cattleya
- Withered snapdragon
- Woolflower

Y
- Yellow bloodleaf
- Yellow-flowered gourd
- Yerba linda

Z
- Zebra haworthia
- Zebra plant
- Zinnia sp.
- Zucchini squash

Dogs Can Get Sunburn!

2008-04-25T13:23:00.000-06:00

Like us humans, dogs need sunlight to help balance their bodies' levels of calcium with their metabolism. Yet too much ultraviolet radiation can irritate our dogs' skin as it does our own, causing sunburn.

Identifying Dog Sunburn:

Dog sunburn begins as redness and hair loss.

Where sunburn first appears:

Bridge of the nose tips of the ears belly.

Dog Sunburn Dangers:

Aggravates any existing skin problems skin ulcers (sores).

Sunburn and Dog Breed:

Pale and short-hair dogs are particularly prone to sunburn, usually on the nose, abdomen, groin, and inside of the legs. Being close to the ground, they not only are affected by the downward sunlight, but also by sun reflecting up from pavement or hot sand. Some breeds, like Weimaraners and Boxers, are predisposed to cancer. Therefore, they must have extra protection from the sunburns and UV rays to avoid a kind of skin cancer.

How you can protect your dogs:

Think about the precautions that you take to prevent yourself from sunburn and UV exposure. You stay out of the sun at the peak hours like noon to 3PM, use sunblock and cover up, don't you? Those same suggestions can work for your dog. NEVER USE CHILDREN OR ADULT SUNBLOCK, ONLY USE SUNBLOCK THAT IS SPECIFICALLY MEANT FOR PETS. WE OFFER PET SUNSCREEN AT OUR STORE AND ONLINE (HEALTH CARE CATEGORY)

Here's more dog health advice: Be sure that your dog is inside the house or in a shaded area during the sun's peak hours, even on overcast days. Apply sunblock to the bridge of the dog's nose, ear tips and other small, sensitive areas whenever the dog is outside for more than a few minutes. Consider some sort of covering for your dog. WE HAVE COOLING MATS, AND COOLING FANS FOR KENNELS AT OUR STORE AND ONLINE (PET BED CATEGORY)

Some veterinarians say that the most important and effective protection is a type of bodysuit for dogs, which is designed to block ultraviolet rays and prevent sunburn. It's still good dog health advice to let your dog play outdoors. But spare your "best friend" the pain of sunburn and its consequences.

Poisonous Plants for Pets

2008-04-24T22:04:00.000-06:00

17 Common Poisonous Plants

Lilies
Members of the Lilium spp. are considered to be highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage could result.

Marijuana
Ingestion of Cannabis sativa by companion animals can result in depression of the central nervous system and incoordination, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma.

Sago Palm
All parts of Cycas Revoluta are poisonous, but the seeds or “nuts” contain the largest amount of toxin. The ingestion of just one or two seeds can result in very serious effects, which include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and liver failure.

Tulip/Narcissus bulbs
The bulb portions of Tulipa/Narcissus spp. contain toxins that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities.

Azalea/Rhododendron
Members of the Rhododenron spp. contain substances known as grayantoxins, which can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and depression of the central nervous system in animals. Severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.

Oleander
All parts of Nerium oleander are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects—including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

Castor Bean
The poisonous principle in Ricinus communis is ricin, a highly toxic protein that can produce severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death.

Cyclamen
Cylamen species contain cyclamine, but the highest concentration of this toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant. If consumed, Cylamen can produce significant gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.

Kalanchoe
This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation, as well as those that are toxic to the heart, and can seriously affect cardiac rhythm and rate.

Yew
Taxus spp. contains a toxic component known as taxine, which causes central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.

Amaryllis
Common garden plants popular around Easter, Amaryllis species contain toxins that can cause vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, anorexia and tremors.

Autumn Crocus
Ingestion of Colchicum autumnale by pets can result in oral irritation, bloody vomiting, diarrhea, shock, multi-organ damage and bone marrow suppression.

Chrysanthemum
These popular blooms are part of the Compositae family, which contain pyrethrins that may produce gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting and diarrhea, if eaten. In certain cases depression and loss of coordination may also develop if enough of any part of the plant is consumed.

English Ivy
Also called branching ivy, glacier ivy, needlepoint ivy, sweetheart ivy and California ivy, Hedera helix contains triterpenoid saponins that, should pets ingest, can result in vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation and diarrhea.

Peace Lily (AKA Mauna Loa Peace Lily)
Spathiphyllum contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue in pets who ingest.

Pothos
Pothos (both Scindapsus and Epipremnum) belongs to the Araceae family. If chewed or ingested, this popular household plant can cause significant mechanical irritation and swelling of the oral tissues and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

Schefflera
Schefflera and Brassaia actinophylla contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue in pets who ingest.

This list contains plants that have been reported as having systemic effects on animals and/or intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract.

Please note that the information contained in our plant lists is not meant to be all-inclusive, but rather a compilation of the most frequently encountered plants. If you think that your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian

Boycott Iams Food

2008-04-24T21:54:00.000-06:00

The IAMS Company: Killing dogs and cats to make a better pet food...

Unbelievable as it sounds, the Iams Co., manufacturer of the Iams/Eukanuba line of quality dog and cat foods, has been harming and even killing dogs and cats, claiming to make a better brand of pet food. In dozens of painful and invasive experiments, hundreds of dog and cats just like your animal companion, were made to suffer and sometimes die in the name of "nutrition research." These experiments were not designed to help the animals involved. These innocent victims were all healthy animals who were used simply as disposable objects.

In a partial concession, on October 7, 2004, Iams announced that it would stop using private contract and university laboratories by October 2006. While this is good news in that Iams will be accountable for what takes place in its labs, Iams must vow to end animal testing altogether. Sadly, however, Iams plans to increase the capacity of its Ohio laboratories to more than double the number of animals it can now confine there. Please contact Iams and let them know that you won't buy while animals suffer and die.

Read more

Food Harmful to Dogs

2008-04-24T12:42:00.000-06:00

Items to avoid
Reasons to avoid

Alcoholic beverages
Can cause intoxication, coma, and death.

Baby food
Can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs. (Please see onion below.) Can also result in nutritional deficiencies, if fed in large amounts.

Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources
Can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.

Cat food
Generally too high in protein and fats.

Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other caffeine
Contain caffeine, theobromine, or theophylline, which can be toxic and affect the heart and nervous systems.

Citrus oil extracts
Can cause vomiting.

Fat trimmings
Can cause pancreatitis.

Grapes and raisins
Contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys. There have been no problems associated with grape seed extract.

Hops
Unknown compound causes panting, increased heart rate, elevated temperature, seizures, and death.

Human vitamin supplements containing iron
Can damage the lining of the digestive system and be toxic to the other organs including the liver and kidneys.

Large amounts of liver
Can cause Vitamin A toxicity, which affects muscles and bones.

Macadamia nuts
Contain an unknown toxin, which can affect the digestive and nervous systems and muscle.

Marijuana
Can depress the nervous system, cause vomiting, and changes in the heart rate.

Milk and other dairy products
Some adult dogs and cats do not have sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down the lactose in milk. This can result in diarrhea. Lactose-free milk products are available for pets.

Moldy or spoiled food, garbage
Can contain multiple toxins causing vomiting and diarrhea and can also affect other organs.

Mushrooms
Can contain toxins, which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and result in death.

Onions and garlic (raw, cooked, or powder)
Contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are more susceptible than dogs. Garlic is less toxic than onions.

Persimmons
Seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis.

Pits from peaches and plums
Can cause obstruction of the digestive tract.

Potato, rhubarb, and tomato leaves; potato and tomato stems
Contain oxalates, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems. This is more of a problem in livestock.

Raw eggs
Contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella.

Raw fish
Can result in a thiamine (a B vitamin) deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. More common if raw fish is fed regularly.

Salt
If eaten in large quantities it may lead to electrolyte imbalances.

String
Can become trapped in the digestive system; called a "string foreign body."

Sugary foods
Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and possibly diabetes mellitus.

Table scraps (in large amounts)
Table scraps are not nutritionally balanced. They should never be more than 10% of the diet. Fat should be trimmed from meat; bones should not be fed.

Tobacco
Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems. Can result in rapid heart beat, collapse, coma, and death.

Yeast dough
Can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

The Urban Dog & St. Albert Gazette

2007-12-19T21:51:00.000-07:00

Meiko was featured as a Christmas pet in the St. Albert Gazette. The store also featured a large ad the holiday issue.

The Urban Dog & Business Edge Magazine

2007-11-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

Pet power propels $4.5-billion industry

Buying bling for Fido fuels boom in business

An article excerpt - By Laura Severs - Business Edge
Published: 08/24/2007 - Vol. 7, No. 17

* The Urban Dog in Edmonton, which caters to canine and cat couture for the pampered pet.

The Urban Dog owner Laurel Kostuk opened her store three years ago after failing to find the type of products she was seeking for her own dog.

"I was trying to find products for him that fit properly in clothing and shoes that were stylish and found that there was nothing in Canada," says Kostuk.

Now The Urban Dog designs and manufactures its own products that it sells worldwide. It also offers a selection and quality product that Kostuk says can't be found at her big-box counterparts.

"I don't compete against the big-box stores - they actually refer people to our store," she says. "There are things I don't have and I will refer people to them."

"There's no competition with them because the quality isn't the same. That's why people come to us, they get the quality, the fit and the uniqueness."

"We're a small independent but we're big - we do huge volume here," she adds. "In the last year we probably sold 10,000 sets of boots just in our store."

The Urban Dog & HelpTV

2007-11-07T00:54:00.000-07:00

Meiko and Laurel appeared on the October 15 2007 show of Edmontons' local HelpTV. HelpTV is tuned in at channel 9. It was a great show and a helpful guide as the colder season comes.

Laurel discussed the latest fall and winter fashions, also displayed some fun Halloween costumes. Of course, Meiko was the fashion model for the duration of the show.

The Urban Dog & LOULOU Magazine

2007-11-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

Would anyone have the LOULOU Magazine article in October's '07 issue? Sadly, we lost our copy. :-(