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Archive for May, 2019

Animals lovers unfortunately assume that every person is kind and loves animals. Some people are just plain nasty.

We are taking care of a neighbor’s pets in a time of crisis. The other day I was walking her dog and as I walked past one home, the dog just lifted his leg and peed on the grass. All of a sudden the owner shouted for me to get out! First of all, the dog was on the street not in the yard. There is no fence on the property and it is a dog’s nature to pee anywhere, preferably in the grass or in a bush.

I took a deep breath and wanted to really tell this jerk off but I calmly walked on.

Some people just aren’t kind. I call them insular, self centered, materialistic jerks!

So my advice to you today, if you are enjoying a walk with your best friend and find a nasty neighbor, avoid the property at all costs. Lots of people are just not kind. Always remember to pick up after your pet no matter where you are!

Remember, your pets count!

It’s a 60s and 70s weekend on Edgewater Gold Radio! Join us today and tomorrow as we re-live the greatest memories of your life. Ask Alexa to play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen on our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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This can be a tricky game. Once you determine the kind of dog food and get into a feeding routine, your can easily monitor how much your feeding you’re day each day. Too much or too little food can lead to various health problems. Pet MD.Com has put together some guidelines to follow.

One of the best ways to keep dogs healthy is to feed them the right amount of dog food. Too little and a dog can suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Too much eventually results in obesity and all of the health problems related to that condition including:

  • Musculoskeletal problems like osteoarthritis, cruciate ligament ruptures, and intervertebral disk disease
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Cushing’s disease
  • Skin disorders
  • Some types of cancer
Feeding chart for dogs

Remember, your pets count!

Keep the greatest songs of all time playing all day on your oldies station. Edgewater Gold Radio. The best oldies of all time! 50s through the 80s. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our app or many apps like Tunein, itunes, Live 365 and others. You may also listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Why Exercise is Good For Your Dog

Monday, May 13, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

All dogs must get a certain amount of exercise and here’s why.

EXERCISE

  • Lowers the Chance of Obesity. Obesity isn’t just a growing problem for humans – it’s affecting an increasing number of dogs too. Even moderate obesity can reduce the lifespan of your pet. This is because it can cause chronic inflammation, digestive problems, skin disorders, and even cancer. Regular exercise is an important tool for reducing the chance of obesity.
  • Improves Physical Condition. Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay in good condition. Canines are active animals – especially as many breeds were bred for high activity levels. A lack of exercise can lead to decreased lean muscle strength and weaker bones.
  • Reduces Destructive Behaviors. If your dog chews, scratches, barks excessively or generally behaves in a destructive way, he might not be getting enough exercise. Dogs that can’t burn energy on a walk will find creative (and annoying) alternative methods!
  • Prevents Boredom. A bored dog isn’t just more likely to be destructive – it’s also less happy and fulfilled. It’s important our dogs get enough physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. This can partly be achieved by allowing your dog to spend time in the garden (possibly with a dog door), but this can’t substitute a proper walk.
  • Provides Challenging Training Opportunities. Walking is a great time to practice obedience. The outdoors provides smells and other distractions for a dog, so it’s a more challenging environment for training. Some behaviors, such as polite leash walking, can also only be taught on walks. Outdoor training sessions are also great for mental stimulation.
  • May Help Prevent Arthritis. A sedentary lifestyle causes muscle and other important tissue to degenerate. It also encourages the development of adipose tissue (fat) which can cause inflammation. For this reason, exercise is important even for dogs that are at risk of arthritis – although you need to be careful about the amount and type of exercise.

Thanks to The Dog Clinic. Com for providing this valuable information.

Remember, your pets count!

Start you day off with the greatest oldies of all time! Edgewater Gold Radio plays the best songs from the 50s through the 80s all the time! Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen on our website: edgewatergoldradio.com.

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Regular dog food does not provide the high level of nutrients that puppy food does. This is the reason why we feed our puppies puppy chow and puppy foods. Puppies have special nutrient needs.  Your puppy should receive puppy food for the first year. If you own a large breed, then I would keep him on puppy food for 18 months.  Most dog food manufacturers offer a special formula for puppies that is higher in protein.  This food also has the necessary fats, vitamins and minerals to meet your puppy’s growing needs.

Feed your puppy three times a day if he is six months or younger. After six months, feed him twice a day. Don’t leave the food out. Feed him at specific times and make sure you are there during the feedings. You want to make sure that he stays on a certain schedule.

It a good idea to have your puppy relax for about one hour after his feedings.  This will help him digest his food. Then take him out for a walk.

Provide dog treats for good behavior but don’t over do it or your dog will expect them all the time.

Remember, your pets count!

Happy Mother’s Day and make sure you keep the oldies playing on Edgewater Gold Radio. It’s a 60s and 70s weekend! Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” of listen on one of many apps, Nobex, Tunein, Live 365, Radio Garden, My Radio Tuner etc. You can also listen on our own Edgewater Gold Radio app. or our website Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Unfortunately our pets have to be rescued from an abusive home and placed in a shelter. If you adopt a new best friend, how to you know that they didn’t come from an abusive home? Here are five signs to look for.

  1. Physical signs- If your dog was too skinny or had some wounds that were healing, that’s a good indication that your new pet came from an abusive environment. There are more subtle signs to look for. Nails that are longer than they should be, fur that seems dull and not very healthy, walking with an unusual gait, and having places on their body that they don’t like to be touched are all signs that they may have been abused.
  2. Food Aggression-Does your dog scarf down their food in the blink of an eye? Does he growl when another pet or person goes near him while he’s eating? This could indicate former abuse and neglect.
  3. Being Extra Clingy – Does your dog follow you around even when you have to go to the bathroom? Does he whine, howl or defecate in the house as soon as you leave.? This could indicate that he was re-homed several times and has separation anxiety.
  4. Submission- While some dogs are naturally more submissive than others, an overly submissive dog may be displaying signs of abuse. Some signs of extreme submission include rolling over with tail tucked when approached, cowering, “smiling,” and lying down or cowering while urinating.
  5. Fear of Aggression –

Many dogs will have one or two fears and may become aggressive in certain circumstances. Dogs that were abused tend to be afraid of everything and may be unpredictably aggressive. These dogs may need medication on top of work with a dog trainer to become more comfortable in the world.

Keep in mind that some dogs are just naturally more timid than others, so if you’ve been the only owner of your dog since they were a puppy, that doesn’t mean you’ve somehow neglected them if they display any of these signs.

Keep these signs in mind and talk to a professional about how to address these issues.

Thanks to i-heart dogs.com for providing valuable information.

Remember, your pets count!

Join Edgewater Gold Radio all weekend long! It’s a 60s and 70s weekend. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Detecting a Hip Problem in Dogs

Wednesday, May 8, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

As our best friends age, you may notice some changes in their behavior that could point to a hip problem. Older and overweight dogs are more prone to hip problems.

Topdogtips.com has put together a comprehensive list of signs to look for.

Signs of Hip Problems in Dogs

Signs of Hip Problems in Dogs

Most of the symptoms of dogs’ hip problems can be spotted easily and quickly because these issues tend to be very painful and your pup will certainly let you know that he’s uncomfortable, particularly when you try to touch him.

1. Decreased Activity

Dogs with hip problems often become less active. You may notice that your pooch is resting or sleeping more, or that he doesn’t show enthusiasm for walks or playtime. While this can often be attributed to aging in general, it is also very likely that your Fido is in pain.

2. Problems with Standing Up

Standing up from a lying position can be a difficult task for dogs with hip problems. This is often noticeable in the morning because the slowness with standing up usually correlates to the length of time the dog was inactive. You might not spot this issue so easily later in the day when your dog warms up a bit. However, even then you may notice a decreased range of motion.

3. Lameness in the Hind End

Depending on the severity of the hip problem, you may notice intermittent or constant lameness in your dog’s hind legs. This can also lead to a visible increase in the size of his shoulder muscles since they have to compensate for the hind end. You may be able to notice a narrow stance in your dog’s hind limbs, which is recognizable by the back legs that are positioned unnaturally close to each other.

4. Problems with Jumping or Climbing Stairs

Any problem with hips will affect your dog’s rear legs, which play a crucial part in his ability to jump or climb stairs. If your dog’s condition is not serious, he might simply exhibit reluctance to jump or climb stairs. However, as the issue with dog’s hips progress he may end up becoming completely reliant on your assistance with these tasks.

5. Bunny Hopping

This term refers to a change in gait that some dogs with hip issues exhibit and it is named “bunny hopping” because dogs lift both hind legs simultaneously, just like a rabbit does when he jumps. This usually happens when a dog is walking but it can also occur while running or walking up or down the stairs.

Remember, your pets count!

Your oldies station is Edgewater Gold Radio, playing your favorite oldies for over 17 years. Join us today for the 50s 60s 70s and 80s. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Training Dogs in Prison

Tuesday, May 7, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

There are a variety of ways to become involved in training a service dog. One unique way that benefits the dog and the training is through inmates. When given the opportunity to train future service dogs, inmates gain confidence, learn how to handle responsibility and develop a valuable emotional bond with the animal. They also gain training and grooming expertise. Abilities that may help them find jobs when they leave prison. It’s an idea that seems to be working. Released inmates that have trained dogs have high employment and low rates of returning to a life of crime. The dog’s benefit to. Most are rescue dogs that need attention and obediance training. Many go on to become valuable service or therapy dogs.  So if your ever visiting anyone in prison, don’t be surprised if you see some prisoners with dog leashes and dogs training.

Remember, your pets count!

Edgewater Gold Radio is your go to oldies station playing the best variety of oldies from the 50s through the 80’s. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com!

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High quality dog food is key to a dog’s health and well being. Most dog owners go for the cheaper food but are we doing our furry friends a service doing this? It’s best to look at the ingredients in the products we buy.

Dog Food Insider has published key things to look for when choosing a high quality food for your pets.

After determining that the product carries an AAFCO statement, your next place to look is the ingredients list. Assuming you have already looked into the brand, you should have a good idea whether or not the company uses high-quality ingredients – it is still important to check the list for each formula, however. Ideally, the first one or two items on the list should be a high-quality source of animal protein. Look for a fresh meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon or some kind of meat meal. Meat meals are simply fresh meats that have already been cooked down to a moisture content around 10% – this means that they are a much more highly concentrated source of protein than fresh meats. Next, there should be a source of digestible carbohydrate on the list. For dog food brands that use grains, you want to see whole grains listed like whole-grain oats or brown rice. For dog food brands that do not use grains, look for other digestible sources of carbohydrate like sweet potato, peas, and tapioca.

Remember, your pets count!

Keep the oldies playing all day while at work today! Edgewater Gold Radio –playing the greatest variety of oldies from the 50s through the 80’s. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio.” Listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Keep Feeding Time Consistent

Sunday, May 5, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

When it comes to feeding your dog, the first step is to determine the correct quantity of food to give him in order to maintain a healthy weight. Next, it’s critical that you establish a routine. Offering your pet meals at the same time every day can promote digestive health and regular bowel movements. For dog owners, this can add up to predictable walk times.  Your pet will also feel more secure knowing that meals come at regular intervals and this security can create a stronger bond.  Knowing when your dog will be hungry can also be used to plan a training session.  Part of your pets meal allotment can be offered as rewards instead of dog treats. Dietary changes should be made gradually to help reduce upsets and unpleasant surprises.

Remember, your pets count!

It’s a 60s and 70s weekend on Edgewater Gold Radio! The best oldies all the time! Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen on Tunein, Itunes, Live 365 or our own Edgewater Gold Radio app. You may also listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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When An Owner Can’t Care For their Pets

Saturday, May 4, 2019
posted by Jim Murphy

This is a situation that we don’t hear much about yet it is extremely important. Sometimes there comes a time when a pet owner can not care for their pets properly due to illness or other unforeseen situations. Many pets suffer from owners neglect and this falls into the category of neglect. Our pets don’t deserve this as they are completely helpless.

Agingcare.com has put together some guide lines on this subject.

Dr. Jones who is a veterinarian in Atlanta, Georgia encourages all pet owners to devise a succession plan for their animals as early as possible. Having a “plan b” in place before the pet owner becomes too ill, needs to move to a care facility or passes away will offer invaluable peace of mind for the owner and added security for their pet. He offers the following tips for creating a contingency plan for a loving animal:

  • Consider adoption. Ask friends and family who are familiar with the pet if they are willing and able to offer the animal a new home. Those who interact with the pet regularly will be better equipped to determine if the animal’s size, personality, routine, etc. would fit well with their schedule and lifestyle.
  • Talk to a vet. Veterinarians have many resources at their disposal and can often help rehome a pet. No-kill shelters can also be a useful option, and there are many non-profit rescue organizations around the U.S. that will also assist older adults in finding new homes for their animals.
  • Get the owner’s input. Be sure to let the pet owner have a say in the decision. Ask them who they would like to look after their pet. “In some cases, older people don’t have a lot of family around and their friends are going through similar transitions, so they worry what will happen to their pets,” explains Dr. Jones. “Animal owners are visibly relieved when we tell them we’ve found their pets a new home. It’s not uncommon for them to cry.”
  • Allow for a smooth transition. Ideally, the current owner will be able to help the pet transition to its new home. The goal is to help the animal and new owner build trust and become familiar with one another incrementally. Try having the new owner come for extended visits with the pet, take the animal for walks and care for it in the new home for short periods before full-time ownership begins. Small steps are easier on everyone involved compared to an abrupt change.
  • Rehomed pets aren’t gone forever. While evaluating prospective adopters, discuss the possibility of allowing the original owner to continue visiting with the animal. Even a monthly visit with a cherished furry friend can brighten up a senior’s day.

Dr. Jones says euthanizing a pet should be the last resort. “Some older people think that putting a pet down is best because the animal is so bonded to their owner,” he says. “We usually try to talk them out of it, explain that there are so many other options and then we work with the owner to rehome their pet(s).”


When Is It Time to Rehome a Senior’s Pet?

With so much research touting the physical and mental benefits that animals provide to humans, Dr. Jones advises that older people keep their pets for as long as possible. Unfortunately, though, circumstances do change. If either the pet or their elderly owner is living in a neglectful situation or experiencing a reduced quality of life, then it is time to explore alternative options. It can be difficult to balance the health, safety and happiness of both the senior and their pet, but it must be done.

Dr. Jones sympathizes with family members who don’t know what to do about their aging loved ones and their furry friends. “For caregivers, the thought of taking care of a person and their pet can be overwhelming,” he notes. “Sometimes older people haven’t trained their pets well, which can amount to behavioral problems and unsanitary conditions. But what people don’t see is that these animals mean so much to their owners. Separation often causes physical and emotional decline in both parties.”

Thanks to aging care.com for providing this valuable information.

Remember, your pets count!

It’s another weekend and that means the great hits of the 60s and 70s on Edgewater Gold Radio! It’s a 60s and 70’s weekend. Join us for the fun!

Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: edgewatergoldradio.com.

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