Uno at the Park

Who won Best in Show at Westminster Kennel Club this year? Who promotes the charity Angel on a Leash? Who will be throwing out the first pitch at the Brewer's game on July 12th at Miller Park? Who will get first pick of the seats in the Midwest Express skybox that night?

Of course, it's Uno, the Beagle! Is there anything he can't do? Come see for yourself.

Dog Owners Can Save Money

Dog owners are feeling the pinch. I talked about this on Animal Radio with Hal Abrams and Judy Francis. Listen to the full interview and check out the following tips.

Top Money-Saving Strategies for Dog Owners

Dog ownership can be prohibitively expensive – but it doesn’t have to be, according to nationally known dog-behavior expert Amy Ammen, host of Dog Class TV in Milwaukee. Wis.

The budget-conscious owner can save a bundle by being a smart shopper over the life of his or her dog, she said.

Selection
Look for a dog that’s available “free to a good home,” or adopt from a shelter with low adoption fees of, say, under $200 for a puppy or $100 for an adult.
Ask if the dog is up-to-date on medical basics such as vaccinations, worming, spaying or neutering. If not, factor these costs into the equation.
Inquire about freebies, such as collar, leash, bed, gates, dishes, kennel, food, even heartworm preventative.
Consider asking a professional to temperament-test the dog before making a commitment.

Training
Do not give your dog unsupervised freedom until he’s proven himself trustworthy.
Puppy-proof your home to keep temptations out of reach; you’ll avoid the need for replacing items as well as the potential for costly emergency surgery.
Speak with and observe a prospective trainer in action to avoid wasting money on training methods that you disagree with.
Go with group classes, using private lessons only as needed.
Don’t send your dog away for training; it’s expensive, and doesn’t teach YOU how to bring out your dog’s best behavior.

Services
When your vet recommends an expensive test or treatment, ask “Is this really necessary?” “Do I have to do it right away?” “What are the pros and cons?” “Is there a more conservative approach?”
Price-shop for medications if your vet will give you a prescription.
Learn to do maintenance grooming yourself between professional appointments.
Avoid dog day care. Instead, form a community with neighbors, coworkers and relatives.

Supplies
Don’t cut corners on food; avoid generic and grocery store brands.
Feed dry food to reduce waste and the tendency toward finicky eating habits.
Don’t feed treats at all.
If you must, offer chopped veggies, cereal or kibble.
Avoid cutesy, poorly constructed toys and equipment. Instead, choose sturdy and practical items.
For money-saving suggestions on training, quick energy burners, grooming and trouble-shooting tips, Ammen recommends consulting her book Hip Ideas for Hyper Dogs (Wiley, 2007).

Small Dog Class starts Sunday, June 8, 2008

Small Dogs, Big Potential!


This specialty class, taught by Amy Ammen of Amiable Dog Training, includes care and training for toy breed dogs and dogs under 15 lbs. at maturity. It starts Sunday in West Allis. Call to enroll -- 414-289-7785.