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Posts Tagged ‘dog’

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Keep Pets Safe As Winter Storms Approach

In National News, Uncategorized, weather on January 3, 2025 at 2:47 pm

January 3, 2025, DAYTON, OHIO – As a major winter storm approaches Ohio, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton urges pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe. Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can pose severe risks to pets, but their safety and well-being can be ensured with proactive care.

Top Winter Storm Tips for Pet Owners

1. Keep Pets Healthy and Indoors

  • Stay Indoors: Whenever possible, bring pets indoors during the storm. Even animals with thick fur are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia during extreme cold.
  • Schedule an Exam: Pets may face health challenges in cold weather. Schedule a preventive care exam with your vet to ensure your furry friend is ready and healthy for the chilly season. Arthritis and other conditions can worsen in the cold, so a wellness check is a pawsitively good idea! Don’t have a vet? Schedule an appointment with us at the Dayton Humane Veterinary Hospital by calling (937) 965-4399.

2. Outdoor Shelters for Companion Animals
Although keeping pets outdoors is not ideal, Ohio law permits animals to remain outside as long as they have adequate shelter and access to fresh food and water. For pets that must remain outdoors, proper shelter is essential:

  • Bedding Materials: Never use blankets or hay as bedding. These materials absorb moisture, freeze, and can do more harm than good. Instead, use straw, which is naturally water-repellant and provides warmth, comfort, and insulation.
  • Shelter Design: Ensure your pet’s shelter is sturdy, waterproof, and insulated. Position the entrance away from prevailing winds, and keep the shelter off the ground to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Access to Food and Water: Ensure pets have fresh, unfrozen water and adequate food to maintain their energy levels. Heated water bowls can be helpful in sub-freezing conditions.

3. Protect Paws and Skin

  • Paw Care: Wipe paws clean after walks to remove salt, ice, and chemical de-icers that can irritate or harm you pet’s feet.
  • Booties or Balm: Use protective booties or paw balm for added protection from the elements.
  • Check Regularly: Frequent paw checks are essential. Cracked or bleeding paw pads can result from cold-weather injuries. Clip hair between the toes to reduce ice accumulation during walks.

4. Avoid Toxic Hazards
Many things used by humans this time of year can be toxic to your pets. Antifreeze can smell sweet and appealing to your pets, so if you spill anything, clean it up quickly to keep them safe. De-icers can also be toxic if swallowed. Protect your pet by avoiding these hazards. If you pet does ingest these items, contact your veterinarian immediately.

5. Limit Outdoor Exposure
Pets have varying tolerances to cold based on factors like coat thickness and health. Adjust outdoor activities according to your pet’s tolerance. Remember, arthritic and elderly pets may need extra care, while long-haired breeds still need protection. Also, be aware of signs of discomfort, such as whining, shivering, or weakness in your pet. These could be signs of hypothermia.

6. Emergency Preparedness
As the storm approaches, have a disaster kit ready for your pets, including:

  • Five days’ worth of food, water, and medications.
  • Updated identification tags and microchip information.
  • Blankets, toys, and other comfort items.

7. Increase Food Portions

Outdoor pets may need more calories to stay warm, so consult your vet about their nutritional needs. As it takes pets more energy to stay warm, you may need to feed them more in the colder months to help their bodies produce more energy.

Resources for Pet Owners

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton offers resources to help keep pets safe this winter, including microchipping services and disaster preparedness checklists. For more information, visit www.hsdayton.org or call us at (937) 268-7387.

About the Humane Society of Greater Dayton
For more than 120 years, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton has been a trusted advocate for animals in the Dayton community. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their owners through education, outreach, wellness, and comprehensive animal welfare programs.

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Former Police Officer / K9 handler helps families and dogs live happier lives together

In Children and Family, Local News, Uncategorized on August 1, 2024 at 4:57 pm

Dogs are our best friends. But they can also be a handful, especially when pet and parent aren’t communicating well. Retired police officer Steve Dunham began training dogs as a hobby while in the military. More than 25 years later, that passion still moves him to help families and dogs enjoy better, more stress-free lives together.  Originally training only police dogs, he rebranded several years ago to work with family pets at Dog Training Personalized, LLC, Kettering, Ohio. Dunham’s unique, no-nonsense approach stems from more than 25 years of training and practice focused on better communication between the owner and the dog.

While in the service, Dunham got a German Shepherd puppy and worked out a deal to board with a local dog trainer who was starting. The trainer needed help, and Dunham wanted to learn how to train his dog, setting in motion a lifelong career.

Former police K9 officer turned family dog trainer Steve Dunham sits with Ardi. His training center, Dog Training Personalized, LLC, is located in Kettering, Ohio.

“Training and handling working dogs was my passion,” Dunham explained. I immersed myself in learning anything and everything I could by attending schools, workshops, reading, and working with hundreds of dogs.”

After the military, he entered police work. Dunham joined the Franklin Police Department in Warren County, Ohio, where he eventually became a K-9 handler. Over the years, he’s trained dogs for several southwestern Ohio police departments, from Beavercreek to Hamilton.

Dunham retired from the force in 2016 and opened a police canine training business. A few years later, he rebranded his company and shifted from working only with police dogs to focusing on family pets. Dog Training Personalized, LLC helps families and dogs overcome common behavioral issues such as barking, leash pulling, jumping, responding to calls, and more. (Video: How to teach your dog to heel with Steve Dunham.)

According to Dunham, the most critical aspects of practical dog training are consistency and timing. “One of the greatest hurdles as a dog trainer is teaching the owners that kind of timing and being consistent,” he explained. “When the animal is learning something new, they’re stressed, so is the owner.”

“For instance, if no one’s ever told the dog to ‘stay,’ they don’t know what that means. They want to get up and move,” Dunham continued. “When they do, you have to put them back into the same position and location and frequently reinforce the good behavior with a reward.” (Watch the full interview with Steve Dunham here.)

Dunham can also help with a variety of other, more specific issues a family and pet might be experiencing, such as aggressiveness and anxiety. Scent work, behavior medication, and other specialized training are also available.

Dog Training Personalized, LLC., is located at 2763 Culver Ave. in Kettering, Ohio. For more information, visit www.dogtrainingpersonalized.com or call Steve Dunham at 937-232-7034.

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Humane Society of Greater Dayton Hosts Free Microchipping Event This Thursday

In Dayton Ohio News, Local News, Technology, Uncategorized on June 24, 2024 at 3:49 pm

June 24, 2024, DAYTON, OHIO – The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is hosting a free microchipping event, “Chippin’ in the USA,” to help keep pets safe and reunite them with their families in case they get lost. The event will be held on Thursday, June 27th, from 1:00 PM to 5:45 PM at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton located at 1661 Nicholas Road, Dayton, OH.

Free Microchips, No Appointment Needed

This free event is open to the public, and no appointments are necessary. Walk-ins are welcome! Microchips are a permanent form of identification that can significantly increase the chances of a lost pet being returned home safely.

What to Bring:

  • Cats: Please bring your cat in a carrier for their safety and comfort.
  • Dogs: All dogs must be on a leash or in a carrier.

Prepare for Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a notorious time for pets to escape or get loose due to loud fireworks. By microchipping your pet before the holiday, you can ensure a quicker and more successful reunion if they become separated from you.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, June 27th, 2024
  • Time: 1:00 PM – 5:45 PM
  • Location: Humane Society of Greater Dayton (1661 Nicholas Road, Dayton, OH)
  • Cost: Free

For more than 120 years, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton has been a dedicated champion for both people and pets. With a steadfast commitment to all types of animals, including cats, dogs, rabbits, horses, farm animals, exotics, small animals, and more, the organization takes pride in its role as a comprehensive animal organization.

As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton operates without government funding and maintains no affiliations with regional, state, or national animal shelters or humane societies. Every dollar raised directly supports their vital programs and services, making a tangible difference in the lives of animals and pet owners.

To learn more about their remarkable work, please visit www.hsdayton.org.

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