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Archive for February, 2019

Hiring A Dog Trainer? Check Their Credentials!

Thursday, February 28, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Many people will hire a dog trainer without checking any of their credentials. I read an article from Tennessean.com which I will pass on to you today. The article was written by John Bowman and it was written awhile ago but still holds true today.

Most dog trainers talk one heck of a ballgame. In fact the way some trainers brag, you’d think they invented dogs.

“People call themselves behaviorists and trainers, and it sounds very prestigious, but there really is no law that says they need to have a certain kind of education,” says Stephanie Shain, director of outreach for companion animals for the Humane Society of the United States.

So if there’s no licensing or testing required, how can you tell a real pro from some guy who just got tired of selling insurance and decided to call himself a dog trainer?

Kat Martin, owner of  DOGS & KAT Dog Training & Behavior Counseling in Nashville, says the key is watching the trainer in action.

“My advice would definitely be to call a trainer, ask them how long they’ve been training and what their background is. But if you really want to make sure this person is right for you, ask if you can attend a class and observe.”

Martin says it’s a red flag when a trainer is hesitant to let you sit in on a class.

“A good trainer would say, ‘Absolutely, come whenever you want. I’ll have a chair ready for you.’ Because if they’re a good trainer, then they’re proud of what they do, and they won’t have anything to hide.”

Let your dog decide

Shain advises owners to do an initial phone interview to find out a trainer’s background and training style. Owners may also want to ask for references. If the initial interview goes well, schedule a time to observe a class.

“The bottom line is to trust your gut,” Shain says. “If something makes you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to say, ‘You’re not the right person to train my dog.’ “

Don’t forget that dogs are usually great judges of character. Shain believes if a dog is afraid of a trainer, then their owner probably should be, too.

“Training should be a fun, positive experience. It should never be scary, and it should never make you feel worried for your pet’s safety. There should be no yelling or hitting.”

Shain said group basic obedience courses are a great way for dogs to learn basic socialization and manners. She also encourages owners to actively participate in their dogs’ training.

“The classes are really as much for you as they are for your dog. Going to training together can really strengthen the bond between you and your pet.”

Most 4-week basic obedience courses cost between $50 and $70. Prices for private training sessions vary, but they’re generally between $40 and $75 per hour.

Do associations matter?

Just about all trainers belong to an association of some kind. Shain says the Association of Pet Dog Trainers is one of the more highly regarded groups, but she cautions that membership in a professional organization doesn’t guarantee a good trainer.

Nashville’s Martin says owners should take the time to learn about which association a trainer belongs to before signing up their dogs.

“There are so many organizations,” Martin says. “Some you just pay money to and you’re a member; others actually require some education and testing.”

Like Martin, Shain believes there’s just no substitute for watching someone in action.

“The real key for people is going for themselves to see how the trainer operates,” Shain says. “Ask to observe a group class. Certainly, asking if you can come and observe is a reasonable request that any trainer should feel comfortable with.”

Remember, your pets count!

Oldies all the time. The greatest oldies of all time! The 50s 60s 70s and 80s are playing right now on Edgewater Gold Radio! Turn us on and enjoy all of your favorites! Tell Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Cat Hair Is Not What’s Making You Sneeze

Monday, February 25, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

You wake up in the morning sneezing and sneezing, your cat is snuggled next to you in your bed. Of course you think that you may be allergic to him and you may be but it’s not his fur that’s making you sneeze.

When cats clean themselves, they deposit their saliva all over their bodies. The saliva contains a protein that, when dry becomes airborne. This airborne protein is the allergen that makes people have an allergic reaction. So it’s the cat saliva, not the cat hair which that sneezing, watery eyes and itching not the cats hair.

Remember, your pets count!

Turn on you oldies. We have them and lots of them. The 50s through the 80 live right here on Edgewater Gold Radio. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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The Importance Of Fatty Acids

Sunday, February 24, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Fatty acids are specific polyunsaturated fats that keeps your dogs skin and fur shiny and healthy. The omega 6 fatty acids are especially important to an animals health because they help support the immune system and help regulate  the blood flow.  Fatty acids are not automatically produced by your dog’s body so you must provide them in your dog’s diet. They’re naturally found in animal fats and vegetable oils and most commercial dog foods are made to contain the proper types and ratios. Some dogs with skin problems and certain health conditions may benefit from fatty acid supplements. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.  He may suggest adding sunflower oil to your pets food.

Remember, your pets count!

The oldies are playing right now on Edgewater Gold Radio. We’ve been playing your favorite memories for 17 years now. So if you are looking for oldies variety just ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio or check out our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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As a Cat falls, the righting reflex allows the cat to orient it’s body so that its paws are facing the ground. The reflex is activated even after the cat is blindfolded or falls in complete darkness. As a cat falls, it may also spread out it’s body to increase drag and slow the fall. Cats can often survive a fall of up to six stories in height. Humans, on the other hand can usually survive a fall from about two stories.

On the other hand, dogs are not built the same and can injure themselves as humans do in falls from much shorter distances. I once had a small dog who leaped from a stairway going upstairs in my home. He leaped through the railing from about four steps up and landed on carpet. He still sprained his leg and was limping for a few days.

Remember, your pets count!

Make it an oldies weekend. The oldies are playing all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio! It’s a 60s and 70s weekend. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio.” Listen on itunes, Tunein,, Nobex, Live 365, Radio Garden, My radio tuner and many other places. You may also listen for our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Malte Pom’s Real Cuties

Thursday, February 21, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

When you cross a Maltese with a Pomeranian, you get a Malte Pom. Sometimes these dogs are called Pomenese , these great little dogs grow to five up to nine pounds and are clever, amusing and affectionate.  They need regular and rigorous exercise to minimize barking and boredom. The white coat of the Maltese mixes with the Pomeranian’s apricot, cream, black or brown to create varying shades and patches of color. The long, silky fur on the Malte Pom doesn’t shed but needs regular grooming or a short cut.  Malte Poms live between 12 and 15 years and some say that they are healthier than the breeds that they descended from.  Malte Poms are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club but as with all designer dogs, not by the American Kennel Club.

Remember, lots of exercise, dog toys,treats and love. Your pets count!

The best music on the best station. Oldies from the 50s through the 80s play all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio! Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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A Cat’s Meow

Wednesday, February 20, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Did you know that meows are directed almost exclusively at humans and rarely toward other cats? This may be an extension of the similar “mew” sound that kittens use to signal a request to their mothers. Cats communicate with other cats mainly by using body language and scent. Wild cats only produce a few sounds, while a domesticated cat produces a wide variety for the sole purpose of communicating with humans. The pitch of the meow can help you understand its meaning. The lower the sound, the more agitated the cat. If the meow sound is high toned, the cat is probably quite happy to convey his or her message. So pay attention to your cat’s meow.

Remember , your pets count!

Your oldies are always playing on Edgewater Gold Radio! It’s consistent oldies variety all the time from the 50s 60s 70s and 80s. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio.” Listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Weight Gain Advice For Healthy Dogs

Monday, February 18, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Some dogs have trouble gaining weight due to health problems. For these dogs, only a veterinarian-approved diet for that dog should be considered. However, if your dog is healthy, there are some foods that can help with weight gain.

Kibble

  • Dogs who need to gain weight should be fed dog food that contains real meat and is  a premium dog food. The first five ingredients should list chicken, beef, venison, lamb or turkey without the words “meal” or “byproducts” after the meat name.

Carbohydrates

  • Brown rice, millet and whole-wheat pasta are good sources of carbohydrates for a dog’s diet. However, when trying to get your dog to gain weight, these items should account for no more than 20 percent of its total diet.

Natural Proteins

  • Chicken, eggs, rabbit, fish, beef and tripe are good sources of protein that are easily digested by dogs. If you opt to feed your dog chicken, make sure that you take the bones out before mixing it with the other food.

Canned Food

  • Canned dog food, when coupled with dry kibble, can help a dog to gain weight. Canned food usually contains more meat and water than dry kibble. It’s also easier for your dog to digest which is necessary for weight gain.

Vegetables

  • Peas, zucchini and green beans are ideal vegetables to serve to your dog. Onions, garlic, broccoli and cauliflower should be avoided, since these can negatively affect the dog’s health and are common allergens.

Thanks to e how for providing this information.

Always check with your vet when it comes to your dogs overall health. You must first get to the bottom as to why your dog doesn’t gain weight before changing his diet. Don’t try to do this on your own.

Remember, your pets count!

Your station for the best variety of oldies is EDGEWATER GOLD RADIO! We’ve been writing our pet blog for over 10 years and running our internet oldies station for 17 years. If you love oldies from the 50s 60s 70s and 80s the give us a listen! Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio.” Listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio. Com.

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Lucky Dog A Very Special Program

Sunday, February 17, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Each Saturday morning as I’m having my coffee, I turn on the program on CBS called Lucky Dog. Each week there is a touching story about dog trainer, Brian McMillan who rescues dogs just before they are about to be put down. He trains them and places them in their forever home with pet owners who have previously lost their beloved pet or are looking for a new companion. Brian figures out the needs of the potential new pet owner and finds the best match.

Brian McMillan Lucky Dog

This is not only a heartwarming show but also provides viewers with lots of training tips, health information and what to look for in adopting a new furry friend. I highly recommend this show for all dog lovers.

Remember, your pets count!

The best oldies around! Edgewater Gold Radio playing the greatest variety of oldies for 17 years. The 50s 60s 70s and 80s live all the time. Listen to Edgewater Gold Radio from our website, or ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio!”

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Things to Consider Whe Adopting a Rescue Cat

Saturday, February 16, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

The first thing to consider when considering adopting a rescue cat is that the cat should never end up back in a shelter. Before adopting a rescue cat, you should consider these factors.

  • Cats can live from 15 to 20 years so you must consider the cost of quality food and supplies. Then there are the Veterinary costs which can add up quickly. You should also consider purchasing medical insurance for your cat.
  • Unfortunately cats aren’t allowed on some rental properties. So if your considering a new rental, the first thing you should ask is whether or not they accept cats.
  • Even though cats are independent creatures leaving them alone for long periods of time can lead to behavioral issues.
  • Depending on your travel schedule and children, cats may not be a good fit for your lifestyle.
  • Space can be an issue. You’ll need space for the litter box, scratching posts sleeping areas, feeding areas and toys. If you are renting a very small apartment, these things can be an issue.

If you have considered these things you can consider adopting a wonderful furry friend. Remember the process should never be rushed. Review your situation and make a good informed decision.

Remember, your pets count!

The oldies are flowing all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio. It’s a 60s and 70s weekend. Join us for great oldies all the time. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Making sure that your cat gets enough protein

Friday, February 15, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

Cats are very special creatures.  A cat needs twice as much protein to keep it’s muscles strong and healthy just like a dog. Cats also require about 20 different kinds of amino acids to make their own body proteins. Those amino acids come from protein and food.  What’s the best source of protein for your cat? The truth is any and all of the protein sources are fine for your cat. Commercial pets foods generally contain at least 30% protein, often from a variety of sources to more than meet your cat’s needs. So if your cat’s are like mine, gormet eaters, you can give beef one day, chicken the next,  and fish the next. Keep that protein comin!

Remember, your pets count!

Enjoy the greatest oldies of all time on Edgewater Gold Radio! Oldies from the 50s 60s 70s and 80s.. Real oldies all the time! Tell Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: www.edgewatergoldradio.com.