Adding a member to the pack
Dogs and humans have lived together for many thousands of years.
Now several types of research are showing that, when managed appropriately, this human and dog relationship can be extremely beneficial for our personal well-being. Just by looking at your dog can increase levels of oxytocin. In addition, dogs can also be the start for sometimes much needed physical activities in humans.
All dogs need to be exercised and play outdoors. Exercising your dog for at least 60 minutes per day would not only greatly increase your weekly daily activity levels, but it also increases potential opportunities for social interaction, or creating lasting friendships.
Dogs are incredible creatures and they deserve to be raised properly. They are always excited to see you, you are never home alone, they reduce stress levels, are loyal and will be your protector!
Whether you are looking to become a first time dog owner or feel ready to welcome another dog to our pack; Are you really ready to enhance your life with a dog?
Before you place an order with a local breeder, first find out why a shelter dog can be your first choice instead. Also, do you fit into a dog’s life, and will a dog fit into your life? Are you a dog dreamer (one who does not fully understand the commitment yet you owe to your dog), or are you a dog lover (one who is patience, listen to a dog’s needs and is committed to all other responsibilities of owning a dog)?
Dogs have the ability to adapt and move on quite well. However, when Fido is exposed to stress for some time, it can become chronic or result in unwanted behaviour. Through my volunteer work in dog adoption and experience, I can help you find out if you are a dog lover or a dog dreamer, and may help get you int to the right balanced mindset a dog desperately needs.
When a dog needs security
When a dog has been exposed to too much negative or destructive human behaviour, it's not surprising that your dog may create anxiety or other unwanted or dangerous behaviour.
When dog your behaviour is out of control, meet B.C. Dog Whisperer James Tsai. He also runs Arf Arf Bark Bark, a non-profit foundation that rehabs aggressive and traumatized dogs. He has been called one of North America’s top experts in large-breed canine rehabilitation.” He has helped the worst of the worst, dogs that are considered hopeless or that are slated to be put down, and those with severe dysfunctions as a result of abuse.
“Every animal wants a connection. They want to be loved, they want to be respected and appreciated.” ~James Tsai
"D" Drug
Petting a dog can help increase your serotonin and dopamine levels, the chemicals that make you feel good and reduce stress levels, and blood pressure. It's an almost free and healthy drug.
What About My Dog's Mental State?
Is your dog withdrawn from his daily activities? However, it's uncommon a dog suffers from long term depression, they can feel down, especially during major life changes. In some cases a stressed dog can become obsessive in licking it's paws; it releases a small dose of endorphins. Sometimes it becomes repetitive as the dog has become addictive to the feeling. In general you might see this behaviour when a dog is out of it's comfort zone. In addition, it's good to check with your veterinarian to see if there are no other internal factors causing this behaviour or other more aggressive behaviour. Sometimes this can be caused due to low levels of serotonin. A recent study showed that low levels of serotonin (a brain chemical) may be linked to aggression in dogs. As for humans, this can lead to depression and anxiety. Oxytocin or the 'feel good' chemical shows the same effect for both humans and dogs; it works on our social behaviour, and for dogs, this is no different.