Check Out The Fence Built For Jesse

Recently, February’s addition to Spike’s Pack, Jesse, had a fence built for him by his Dad, who documented the process with a photoblog of the events over at the Trukindog’s Den.

The following pictures from top to bottom are my fence project to give Jesse a large play & exercise
Pic. 1 The beginning
Pics. 2, 3 & 4 The base trench is dug & the gate & center posts are set & waiting for the concrete to dry.
Pic. 5 The gate latch/fence end post is set & concrete drying, the gate is hung & waiting for height adjustment
Pic. 6 The Boss/Jesse inspecting my work.
Pic. 7 The first section of fence is up & secure.
Pic. 8 The second section of fence is up & secure.
Pics. 9 & 10 The job is done !

Now Jesse has a big safe place to play & exercise.

What Can I Do About My Dog’s Coprophagia (Poop Eating)?

As I may have mentioned, I got a new dictionary for Christmas.  I have been spending a lot of time looking up words in it.  When I looked up “coprophagia,” it was not in my new Webster’s.  I am guessing that they did not include the word, because is refers to eating poop, and humans do not typically suffer from this malady. In fact, humans that do suffer from this are probably taken away very quickly, never to see poop again!

Spike Says: Fight Dog Obesity

Dogs are also fighting the “Battle of the Bulge.” Obesity is now the #1 health problem for dogs.  As people get busier, they tend to let their exercise program go by the wayside, as well as the exercise their pets receive.  Keep an eye on what your dog is eating, how much they are eating, and that they get regular exercise, even if you have to “outsource” it to a dog walker or another family member.

Why Does My Puppy Pee When She Sees Me?

Earlier this month, a reader e-mailed me about a problem she was having with her Springer Spaniel puppy.  Basically, anytime her puppy saw her, she would get so excited that she could not contain herself, and she would pee wherever she stood, sat, etc.  This seems like a pretty cut and dry case of submissive urination, but there are some steps we need to take to rule out other potential issues.

Submissive urination is a problem common to a lot of puppies, especially the exceptionally energetic ones.  This problem occurs when your pup is just so happy to see you, she simply releases her urine.  My first suggestion in this situation is to rule out any physical problems. 

Spike Says: Exercise With Your Dog

Most Americans do not get enough exercise, and that does not even include their dogs.  Your four-legged buddy needs exercise too.  You may not excel in your own exercise regimen, but you should ensure your dog gets his exercise in.  You can get your exercise while you go for a walk with your dog, getting two treats with one act.  If you are unable to go for a walk with your dog every day that would constitute exercising, make sure that your buddy gets exercise in other ways, like playing ball, tug-of-war, or fetching his toys.  Allow and encourage other people who have a relationship with your dog to play with him as well.  Another great way to get your dog some great exercise, along with some excellent socialization, you can set up play dates with other dogs or make a trip to the nearest dog park.  Taking those extra steps can help to keep your dog healthy for years to come.