Tips for Overcoming Boredom and Routine Stress

There are many ways in which you can prepare for, and participate in, you dogs overall health. Providing the necessary shots, diet and exercise are but a few of the ways in which we may meet their daily health demands. Still, there is one area which even many of the most well meaning owners,breeders, trainers, etc. overlook- the state of the animals mental health. Providing for this is just as important as is their physical well being.

Just what exactly can someone do to make sure their dog is mentally healthy and to detect and solve problems before they reach a critical stage? Many solutions are available to combat the stresses of kennel life, or of life indoors,for a dog(s) which remain alone a good bit of the time.

First, many problems often occur as the result of simple boredom. Just how long do you think you could go behaving "correctly" if you were deprived of social, physical and mental stimulation? The length of time would vary from person to person. The same holds true of your dog(s). Dogs are social creatures and rely heavily upon your contact with them. Again, some more-so than others.

Still, as we all know, you cannot maintain 24 hour contact with any animal - unless maybe you were stranded on a island somewhere with only it as your companion.

There are many other respon- sibilities we all share in other areas- family, career,etc.-which take up a great deal of our time and otherwise cut down on the amount we may spend in our kennels. It is for this reason that it is so important to plan things to keep your animal alert and stimulated mentally to cut down on problems which arise, most notably, from boredom. Boredom is one thing kennel animals(and house dogs as well) face on a daily basis. Not only is this very bad for the dog, but it is highly preventable as well. Many of the most common problems or anti-social behaviors occur as the result of boredom. Excessive barking, fence running, digging and stool eating are all examples that may initially begin as acting out behaviors to overcome boredom. Many of these problems could be solved with just a bit of forethought in the planning stages of kennel development. If your kennel or living area is already constructed, then there are many other ways you can provide for your animals mental health by overcoming or avoiding this problem.

First, where exactly does your dog spend most of its time? You can provide toys as a way to relieve the anxieties of kennel/inside life. Not only do toys provide stimulation and fun but they are the easiest place in which to start. Once you have made sure they are size appropriate for your dog you have a vast array of kinds and types from which to choose. If you are creative and good with your hands then you can create many things yourself. Who says "store bought" is always better? Most importantly, make sure that they are too large to swallow.

Providing a different toy each day or week on a rotating basis is one idea to prevent the dog from becoming bored with the object first introduced to relieve actual boredom. Moving the location of water and food dishes are another idea. The introduction of fruits or vegetable slices, such as carrots or apple slices, are another interesting item the dog doesn't get on a regular basis and also are good and safe supplements if the dog happens to eat them. Large marrow bones, kongs, hard rubber balls(larger than your dog can swallow), and stuffed animals are other choices. Remember, super- vision of these toys is a must, especially in the initial stages.

If the dogs kennel area will allow, hanging toys are a lot of fun for your pet. If suspended by a spring, they will snap back when the dog turns it loose. If you use a rope to suspend a toy make sure it is single strand. NEVER suspend it low enough that an accident may occur. The addition of bells or other types of noise makers are also good choices provided they are attached in such a way that the animal can't get to them. Remember that you will need to check these additions frequently for signs of wear or needed repair. If you allow your dogs out of their normal confinement, and you have an empty available space(large size is not required) in your fenced yard, then there are things you may add there as well to appease your dog. Obstacle courses can be set up in a minimum of space and with little or no monetary output. Being creative does help though it is not a necessity.

Tires partially buried, upright so that the dog may pass through them, are quite effective and fun once you teach the dog how to successfully navigate them.Even the larger wooden slides, ramps and walk- throughs as found in many children play- grounds are very effective in working with your animals. While living in an apartment in the past, Cera and I frequently visited the playground of a local elementary school to play on their equipment when school was out. Needless to say, she loved it. Overall, the only limiting factor in overcoming boredom for your pets is you! Thinking creatively can easily modify your pets environment so that it is safe, interesting and fun. Freedom from boredom is not only essential for you but for your pets as well. Mental stimulation is important!

Article written and reprinted with permission of: http://www.pedigreedpups.com/ Purebred Dogs, Puppies and Dog Breeders - "Your New Best Friend"

Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.

Debbie Ray, owner of: http://www.pedigreedpups.com is a lifetime dog lover and owner and breeder of german shepherd dogs for over 15 years.

Wood Dale Chicago prom limo .. Lockport Chicago limo O’Hare
In The News:

Fueled by artificial intelligence, CyberDog the robotic dog is designed specifically locate fire ant nests, which are endangering ecosystems.
Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents
Internet browsers are useful, but they can be dangerous. Clicking on malicious links can direct you to dangerous websites that steal information or infect your device.
Apple's latest iOS update introduces advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, which may be capturing and analyzing sensitive information.
Breach site confirmed 56,904,909 Hot Topic users' data leaked online. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says the company's silence makes matters even worse.
Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson discusses how an innovative Easy-Way kit turns standard strollers electric, simplifying navigation for parents.
Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson talks about T-Mobile being hacked in broad cyberattack on global phone and internet companies.
Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson shows you how to add, customize and manage widgets for quick access to apps and info from your iPhone home screen.
Wrong Google searches can not only compromise your device and personal data. They can also bring law enforcement to your doorstep. Hackers are targeting Google searches.
China's Shanghai Kepler Robotics has developed a new humanoid robot that can carry up to 35 pounds per hand for commercial applications across various industries
Checking your hearing has gotten easier with the new hearing test feature in AirPods Pro 2. You can take reliable hearing tests using your iPhone or iPad.
Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.
Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson explains how a VPN — virtual private network — works and how running it can slow down the operation of your device.
The WalkON Suit F1, an exoskeleton developed to help people with disabilities, can actually walk over to a person in a wheelchair, solving a major problem.
ClickFix, a new scam targeting computer users, is on the rise in the U.S. The scam prompts its targets to click on a link to fix a problem.
Skydweller is the world's largest unmanned solar-powered aircraft that can stay airborne for weeks, and even months, without refueling.
The U.S. government said it is investigating after People's Republic of China hackers targeted commercial telecommunications service providers in the U.S.
Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.
Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated ways to lure unsuspecting victims, and some are impersonating an email help desk or support team.
You can unsend or edit your iMessages with the latest iOS updates. Kurt the CyberGuy explains how you can save yourself some potential embarrassment.
Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says there’s been a rise in cybercriminal services using hacked police and government emails to send subpoenas and data requests to U.S. companies.
Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson discusses how Axiom Space and luxury designer Prada are collaborating on NASA's Artemis III spacesuit design.
Voice assistants may cause confusion across devices. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson offers some solutions to fix it.
Shameless scammers trick veterans into giving personal info or cash. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson explores five common scams.

Indoor Dogfishing ? Fun Way To Exercise A Small Or Medium Size Dog

When I had a Toy Poodle, I used a small... Read More

The Dangers of Canine Parasites

When you get a puppy, one of the first things... Read More

What You Should Know About Your Dogs Sleeping Habits

It's important to understand your dog's sleeping habits and how... Read More

Tropical Fish Breeding for Beginners - Guppies and Swordtails

Breeding tropical fish can be a lot of fun. Try... Read More

4 Things Frustrated Dog Owners Should Know

You've probably had a day or two when you felt... Read More

Preparing Your Home For a New Puppy

While excitement and anticipation will be at the top of... Read More

Top 5 Dog Health Problems

The most common dog problems:Dog Owner's commonly ask me the... Read More

Are All Those Pet Vaccinations Really Necessary?

Would you like to save money and have a healthier... Read More

Decorating for The Cat Owner - How to Protect Your Possessions

The first thing a cat owner should know about home... Read More

Dog Behavior Problems: Help! My Dog is a Nuisance When he Misbehaves!

How many times have I hear fellow dog owners say,... Read More

RecoveryPets.Com Helps Recover Lost Pets

Making our lives better includes protecting our families, and also... Read More

The Fun of Do It Yourself Snake and other Reptile Cages

Are you nuts? You think banging your finger with a... Read More

Understanding Dog Fleas: How Fleas Breed & Affect Your Dogs Health

Fleas belong to the insect order Siphonaptera. They are common... Read More

Animal Deathing

What happens when we die? In our society, death is... Read More

Aquarium Supplies Part 2 -- My First Experience With Goldfish

If you are seriously considering keeping fish as pets or... Read More

Comparison of the Cost and Effectiveness of Holistic Horse Care versus Conventional Care

After years of practicing both conventional and holistic medicine for... Read More

Training Your Dog For A Happy Healthy Life

Adopting a dog is a lot of fun, but it... Read More

Parvo in Dogs

What Is ParvoParvo is a serious viral disease that can... Read More

Heartworms Alert - Know The Warning Signs To Save Your Pets Health!

Has your pet recently been coughing, eating less, or being... Read More

Special Gifts for Animal Lovers

Animal lovers come in all shapes and sizes. Undoubtedly if... Read More

Determining Skin Disorders In The Aquarium

Many different skin problems can arise in the aquarium. thankfully,... Read More

Using Dog Leash Training to Control Your Pooch

Many pet owners don't like using a leash, for a... Read More

Down On The Farm

As I listen on my long drive to my grandpa's... Read More

Vaccinations Cause Vaccinosis - Your Pet is Being Harmed

Annual Vaccinations for Your Dog?Are they really necessary? - In... Read More

Why the Heck Would You Have a Pet Snake (or lizard, crocodile, monitor, frog, turtle etc)?

This is a question that has been asked of me... Read More

Antigo wedding limo ..