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For Your Information!
10 Reasons To Own A Shih Tzu
1) Couch, Meet Shih Tzu; Shih Tzu Meet Couch:If you want someone to snuggle up with you while you watch TV, a Shih Tzu is happy to oblige!
2) Space Saver: A Shih Tzu doesn’t take upmuch room! Whether an Imperial (@ 5 - 9 lbs,or a standard @ 10 - 16 lbs, a Shih Tzu can easily share the seat with you!
3) Exercise ~ What’s That???:Unlike big, energetic retrievers or super-charged herding dogs that need plenty of opportunities to run,a Shih Tzu idea of a good workout is playing ball or doggie toys inside the house!
4) Lot’s of Hugs & Kisses: Shih Tzu don’t hesitate to show their affection to one and all ~especially their own family!
5) In Touch With Ones Self: Shih Tzu can amuse themselves. They love their family, but if their family is occupied elsewhere, a Shih Tzu doesn’t get bent out of shape!
6)Roommate Wanted: The Shih Tzu small size makes this breed ideal for living in compact spaces.
7) Hair Care: Unlike most other breeds, the Shih Tzu coat will contribute very little to any dustbunny pileups in your home because they hardly shed. If you hate to vacuum, your Shih Tzu won’t force you to get that machine out any more often than you would have otherwise.
8) May I Be Excused: Shih Tzu have adaptable bathroom manners. They can learn to use just about any kind of doggie bathroom; a dog litter box, newspapers, ‘piddle pads’ or the great outdoors!
9) Little Dog, Big Courage: They are NOT weenies! The Shih Tzu compact size belies his big-dog attitude. They are active and alert, and make great watchdogs!
10) I feel good!: Unlike other purebreds, the Shih Tzu has relatively few health problems.
Shopping for Puppies Homecoming
From training to feeding and sleeping to playing, your new Shih Tzu puppy will need a few items to make her life more comfy, easy and fun.
Harness: Get your puppy used to wearing a harness the first day you bring her home. Not only do a harness and ID tag help your puppy in the event she becomes lost, but harnesses are also an important training tool: If your puppy gets into trouble, the harness acts like a handle, helping you divert the dog to a more appropriate behavior. Harnesses come in many styles & colors!
Leash: For training or just for taking a stroll down the street, a leash is your puppy’s vehicle to explore the outside world. Like collars, leashes come in a variety of styles and materials. A 6-foot nylon leash is a popular choice, but some people prefer a leather leash because it last longer and doesn’t hurt your hand when your dog pulls. I prefer the ‘retractable’ leashes. But again, that is preference.
Bowls: Your puppy needs two bowls: one for water and one for food. Both should be sturdy bowls that won’t tip over easily. (Most have reinforced bottoms that prevent tipping.) Common types are metal, ceramic or plastic bowls, and each type should be easy to clean.
Bed: A plush doggie bed makes sleeping and resting more comfortable for you puppy. Dog beds come in all shapes, sizes and colors, but your dog really just needs one that is soft and large enough for her to stretch out on. You might want to buy one that your puppy can grow into as she reaches adult size. Because puppies aren’t house trained yet, it’s helpful to by a bed that is easily washable.
Crate: A multipurpose crate will serve as a bed, house training tool and travel carrier if you ever travel together. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand in, turn around and lie down. You don’t want anymore room than this ~ because the dog will eliminate in one corner and lie in another. With Shih Tzu I have found that a medium crate is usually a good size.
Gates: Similar to ones used for toddlers, gates keep your puppy confined to one room or area when you can’t supervise her, or they keep your puppy out of areas you don’t want her in. Gates are available in many styles, but just make sure the one you choose is tall enough so your puppy can’t jump over it (even at full adult height), and has spaces small enough so even small dogs or puppies can’t squeeze through the bars or openings on the gate.
Toys: Keep your puppy occupied and entertained by providing her with an array of fun toys. Teething puppies like to chew, so bones made of nylon or hard rubber are good choices. Other fun toys include rope toys, treat dispensing toys and balls. Make sure the toys don’t have any small parts your puppy might swallow or choke on. This includes bones on other toys in which small parts could break off that your dog might swallow and choke on.
Calming Suggestions for Nervous Pets
Do thunderstorms threaten to make your scaredy cat - or dog - spontaneously combust? If so, here are some tips that might help:
* Cut the baby-talk: If you coo and cuddle and constantly reassure a frightened animal, you will only reinforce the idea that that there is something to be worried about. Instead, be cheerfully matter - of - fact. Muffle the noise outside by putting the tv up or play some soothing music (classical or folk, NOT heavy medal!)
* Stay indoors: Since frightened animals are more likely to bolt, don't let them outdoors pnce storm activity is obvious. And try to block outside sights and sounds by closing your windows and lowering blinds and curtains.
* Den what: Many animals feel safe in close confined spaces. Example: a bird in a covered cage. Your dog may feel safer in his crate covered with a blanket, and include a few chew toys to let him gnaw away his anxiety.
* Medications: They release calming pheromones similar to those secreted by nursing mothers. See your veterinarian for details about these drugs .
McClatchy-Tribune News
Canine Travel Tips
Taking your dog on the family vacation can make for a great trip, if you plan carefully.
Are you traveling by car, plane, train, bus, or boat? How long will the trip take? Will you be staying with family or friends, or at a hotel or motel? Is your dog in good health?
These are some of the questions you will need to answer to make your trip safe and fun.
Safety
A crate or harness that attaches to the seat belt should be used for your dog's safety when traveling. Crates and harnesses are available from most pet supply stores. Be sure to provide plenty of water and a favorite toy to make your dog as comfortable as possible. Also, be sure the crate...
- is large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn and lie down
- is secured to the vehicle
- is strong, with handles or grips, and free of interior protrusions
- has a leak-proof bottom covered with plenty of absorbent material
- has ventilation on opposing sides, with exterior rims or knobs to prevent blocked airflow
- has a " LIVE ANIMAL" label, arrows upright, with owner's name, address and phone number
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By Car
When traveling by car, be sure to keep your dog comfortable. Bring along a favorite toy to make your dog feel secure.
If it's hot, open car windows to provide sufficient ventilation. Do not let your dog stick its head out of the window; this may lead to eye or ear injuries. Also, do not let your dog travel in the back of an open pickup truck. Your dog could be injured in an accident.
To help prevent motion sickness in your dog, take several short trips in the car before your journey. Also, feed your dog lightly before the trip, about one-third the normal amount.
By Plane
When traveling by plane, plan to visit your veterinarian before your trip. Certification of health must be provided no more than 10 days before travel. Rabies and vaccination certificates are also required. Your dog should be at least 8 weeks old and weaned.
Airlines make it clear that it is the owner's responsibility to verify the dog's health and ability to fly. Ask your veterinarian if it would be best for your dog to be tranquilized for the trip. Also be sure to check the temperature of the flight's starting point and destination; it may be too hot or too cold to be safe for your dog.
Federal regulations prohibit shipping live animals as excess baggage or cargo if an animal will be exposed to temperatures that are below 45°F or above 85°F for more than four hours during departure, arrival, or while making connections.
Remember that each airline has its own variations on regulations and services. For example, if your crate doesn't meet its requirements, the airline may not allow you to use it. They may, however, allow your dog in the passenger cabin if your crate or carrier fits under the seat in front of you.
When making your reservations, you must make reservations for your dog. There are restrictions on the number of animals permitted. They are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
By Train, Bus and Boat
If you decide to travel by train, you may be disappointed. Amtrak does not allow pets of any kind, including dogs. (Service dogs are permitted.) Local and commuter trains have their own policies.
Travel by bus may be equally disappointing. Greyhound and other bus companies that travel interstate are not allowed to carry live animals, including dogs. (Service dogs are permitted.) Local bus companies have their own policies.
Federal law (Americans with Disabilities Act) allows equal access to all "Service Dogs" (ie., hearing assistance, mobility assistance, etc.). It is crucial if you are traveling with a service dog to alert the carrier that you are coming with a service dog so that they may accommodate you with special seating, if available. If you travel with a service dog, you need to know those laws and carry a copy of the law with you and the number for the ADA office in the U.S. Department of Justice, (800) 514-0301 (voice) and (800) 514-0383 (TDD). You may come across a gate agent, ticket seller, conductor, etc. who does not know the law.
If you're taking a cruise, you may be in luck. For example, the QE2 luxury cruiser, which sails from New York to England/France, provides special lodging and free meals for your dog.
Check with the cruise line or ship that you are planning to use for its policies. Smaller ships will usually not be able to accommodate your dog.
Lodging
If you plan to stay at a hotel or motel, be sure to find out in advance if it allows dogs because many do not. A great web site to ind hotel that will allow pets is www.fido.com
If your dog is allowed to stay at your hotel or motel, respect the privacy of other guests. Keep your dog as quiet as possible.
Beware of leaving your dog unattended. Many dogs bark or destroy property in a strange place.
Prevent any possibility of unwanted messes or an escape. Keep your dog in its crate at night or if you must, leave it in your room alone. Also, ask where you should walk your dog, and be sure to clean up after your dog.
Please remember, for hotels to continue to accept guests with dogs, it is important to respect hotel property, staff and fellow guests.
International
International travel involves much more than interstate travel. Each country has its own rules and regulations.
Many countries have a quarantine period. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country of your destination for details.
Check with the embassy or consulate of the country of your destination for details.
Other Helpful Tips
However you travel, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar. The collar should have identification tags, a license and proof of rabies vaccinations. Your home phone number should be on the tags as well.
- You may want to consider a permanent form of ID (such as a microchip or tattoo) that can increase the likelihood of reuniting you with your dog if it gets lost far from home.
- Carry recent pictures of your dog with you. If you are accidentally separated, these pictures will help local authorities find your dog.
- Take the phone number of your veterinarian and any special medication your dog needs. Some dogs can't adjust to abrupt changes in diet, so pack your dog's regular food, bowls and a cooler of water.
- If you think you might need to board your dog at some point during your travels, be sure to bring your dog's complete vaccination records.
Homemade Sweets & Savory Treats
When your Shih Tzu craves something tasty, make her a snack.These delicious, dog-friendly recipes will have your furry friend smacking her lips for more! Just remember: Treats aren’t meant to replace your dog’s regular meals. Give snacks sparingly and continue to feed nutritious, well-balanced meals.
- Cheddar Squares -
1/3 cup all-natural applesauce
1/3 cup low fat cheddar cheese, shredded
1/3 cup water
2 cups unbleached white flour
In a medium bowl, mix all wet ingredients. In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Mix well. Pour batter into a greased 13x9x2-inch pan. Bake at 175 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes. Bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center and removed comes out clean. Makes about 54 1 1/2inch bars.
- Peanut Butter Bites -
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter, no salt or sugar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons water
1 1/2teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
2 cups whole wheat flour
In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until dough is firm. If the dough is too sticky, mix in a small amount of flour. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until firm. Roll out dough an inch thick and cut with a cookie cutter. Put the cookies on a baking sheet a half an inch apart. Bake at 350degrees Fahrenheit for 20 - 25 minutes. When done, cookies should be firm to the touch. Turn oven off, and leave cookies for 1 - 2 hours to harden. Makes about 40 2- inch long cookies.
- Barking Bagels -
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup unbleached flour
1 package (1/4ounce) yeast
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon honey
In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with the yeast. Add 2/3 cup of the chicken broth and the honey, and beat for 3 minutes. Gradually add the remaining flour. Knead the dough until smooth and moist, but not wet (use the reserve broth if necessary). Cover the dough for about 5 minutes. Divide the dough into about 15 to 20 pieces, rolling each piece into a small ball. Make a hole in each ball with your finger about a half an inch wide. Allow the bagels to rise on a greased cookie sheet. Then bake at 375degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Turn the heat off and allow the bagels to cool in the oven.
- Great Gravy Cookies -
2 1/2cups whole wheat flour
2 small jars beef-flavored baby food
6 tablespoons beef gravy
1 egg
1/2cup nonfat dry milk
1/2cup water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2teaspoon garlic powder
1/2teaspoon salt
Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Lightly pat your hands with flour and shape the mix into a big ball. Flatten the ball using a floured wooded rolling pin. Using a cookie cutter to cut the dough into shapes. Place the cookies on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes, or until lightly brown. Allow the cookies to cool before serving.
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