Autumn Days - The Many Ways Our Dogs Love Fall

The month of September does its best to make us forget about summer. From the cooler temperatures and fewer allergens to the beautiful fall colors and the holidays just around the corner, fall is a time of physical and spiritual renewal for both humans and their pups.

Fall Benefits:

• Longer walks - cooler temperatures allow for longer walks which most dogs enjoy;
• Seasonal treats - pumpkin flavored dog treats are very popular and healthy for your tail wagger. Pumpkin will not upset your dog's digestive system and they are easy to make at home;
• Fewer insects - mosquitoes, fleas and ticks, fall months feature less blood sucking and biting insects;
• Fewer allergens - these are greatly reduced in the fall meaning less itching and less eye, ear and nose issues.

Fall Dangers To Watch For:

• Wild mushrooms - many fall fungi are toxic and can make your dog very sick;
• Moldy leaves - piles of damp, rotting leaves can harbor dangerous bacteria and mold;
• Acorns and conkers - if you live in an area that has oak trees or horse chestnut trees falling acorns and/or conkers can cause upset stomachs, blockages, or toxic poisoning in your dog if swallowed.

Enjoy the cooler fall days with your tail wagger along side!

~~Special September Dog Observance:

• National "Hug Your Hound" day the second Sunday in September

--Calling for extra cuddles & bonding with your pup(s)



Ear Cleaning Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

Your pup's ear health is very important to ward off bacteria and any infections. Since they cannot clean their own ears it is essential for pet owners to clean their pups' ears to keep them healthy. How often, you ask, should ears be cleaned? Regular ear cleaning once a month will help to keep your tail wagger healthy. Too much cleaning more often than once a month can potentially cause damage to their ear canals. Therefore monthly gentle cleaning is all that they need.

Tips for cleaning ears:

• Step 1 - Gather supplies - a vet approved ear cleaner, cotton balls, treats and your pup. Never use a Q-tip, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol;
• Step 2 - Pour the ear cleaning solution into your dog's ear canal. Have your dog sit (distract them with a treat if needed) and follow the instructions on the ear cleaning solution bottle by filling the ear canal with the solution. If your dog does not allow you to pour the solution into the ear, soak a cotton ball and rub the cotton ball inside the ear;
• Step 3 - Massage the solution in by rubbing the base of your dog’s ear (right next to their head). 
• Step 4 - Reward - Give your pup a treat, wait a month, then repeat! 

If your dog shows signs of an ear infection, like redness, constant scratching of the ear or shaking of the head, contact your vet and avoid cleaning their ears until the infection is gone. My dog Domino just had a bacterial infection in his left ear spotted by his groomer. The vet cleaned and packed the ear with orders not to touch the ear or bathe him until the infection has been cleared. I am guilty of cleaning my dogs ears too often, I learned a lesson myself this month!

Meet Nugget

~A small piece of gold found in a 7 year old Shih Tzu boy~

Look at that face! Simply irresistible! And, would you believe that this little Nugget is as adorable in personality as he is in his looks. He is most likely to be everything you are looking for!

He's a real charmer, sweet and friendly with people and even other nice, small dogs. He can also enjoy some "chill" time, cuddling, toys, and just hanging out. And guess what else, Nugget walks nicely on a leash and rides very well in a car.

 Nugget is a gorgeous Shih Tzu/Bichon mix. He is 7 years young and about 10-11 pounds. Since he rides well in a car and is just the right size, he can accompany you on rides, vacations, etc. He is the one you've been looking for and will brighten a new forever home with his love and cuteness.

If you believe you are a perfect match for Nugget, please complete an application today. Also don't miss his video to see Nugget getting to know his new people and surroundings here at the rescue. 

(Click on Nugget's picture to see his video) 

Article by Peggy Doepper



- Does your dog need advice about human behavior that only a trained dog advisor can answer? Ask Amber!.

Amber is one of the editor's dogs who, of course, is a Shih Tzu Rescue Alumni

• Dear Amber,

Mom says that September is "Back To School" month. Does that mean I get to go to school too? The house is lonely with everyone gone!

--Lonely Pup

• Dear Lonely Pup,

The back to school your mom is talking about is for humans only. Unfortunately this time of year brings about changes to your daily routines and the house does get quiet and lonely with everyone gone for the majority of the day. Here are some ideas for your mom to help you adjust:

• Props to keep you busy - puzzle feeders, kong treats, snuffle mats, etc will challenge your brain and keep you busy. Also have your mom rotate your toys so you get a different one to play with everyday;
• Goodbyes & greetings - calm goodbyes in the mornings and greetings when everyone comes home will help to make these activities feel like routine to you;
• Connection time - a walk in the morning and play time in the afternoon when family returns will give you quality time and reassure you that you are loved and a part of the family;
• Stick to routine - you are adjusting to a new daily rhythm. Tell your mom to stick to a routine keeping meals, play time, walks and bedtime consistent will help.

A little preparation for changes goes a long way. Hopefully your mom and family understand this and will make sure you feel loved and safe during this time of adjustment.

~~With pearls of wisdom & a perfectly fluffed tail, Amber

Send us your fun dog questions for Amber and we will feature them here!

From Rescue Dog To Hollywood Star

Meet Monte, a terrier mix rescue dog. He was originally from Las Cruses, Mexico and later transferred to HALO animal rescue in Phoenix, Arizona. Hollywood animal trainers scouted the shelter looking for a dog to play "Tramp" in the 2019 action film "Lady and the Tramp." Monte, 2 years old at the time, was chosen to play the physical role of Tramp on screen, while actor Justin Theroux provided the voice for the character. Monte was chosen for his scruffy look.

All rescue dogs used in the movie found loving forever homes including Monte who was adopted by one of the animal trainers who originally found him. Monte is now 9 years old.