An emotional support animal (ESA) can be any animal species that aids individuals with their emotional or mental well-being. People are not restricted in the number of ESAs they can have. To obtain official ESA Medical Recommendation Letter, a mental health professional must confirm that the animal offers therapeutic benefits for conditions like anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism, agoraphobia, fear of flying, and certain learning disorders. Emotional support animals, service dogs, and therapy dogs each serve distinct roles. Emotional support animals, akin to ser ..read more

Although dogs do not require carbohydrates for their physiological needs, incorporating fiber into their diets can be advantageous. Fiber, a complex carbohydrate present in plants, consists of soluble and insoluble components. Is it beneficial for dogs to consume fiber? Insoluble fiber passes through the body without much change, aiding in the bulking of fecal matter to promote the body’s elimination process. This increased bulk also supports the normal functioning of anal glands and reduces the risk of impaction. Dr. Gary Richter, the Founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition, suggests that providing ..read more

1. Engage in a Game of Hide and Seek Engage your canine companion in a delightful activity of hide and seek, utilizing his undying love for treats and his innate desire to sniff. Depending on your dog’s level of training, you can either instruct him to sit and stay in another room or take advantage of his nap time to discreetly scatter treats around the house. Whichever approach you choose, strategically hide some of his favorite treats or chew toys while he remains oblivious. Once you’re finished, direct your furry friend to discover his hidden treasures, rewarding him with a delectable treat ..read more

As temperature drops, it is important to remember that dogs can get frostbite just like people can.  Some dogs are more susceptible to frostbite than others, but in the right circumstances, it can happen to anyone.  Here is what you need to know. Young dogs and elderly dogs are most susceptible, no matter the breed.  Small dogs and dogs with shorter fur are also more likely to get frost bite. Frostbite damages the tissue of extremities like toes, feet, tails, nose, and ears, but additionally, it often precedes hypothermia which can be deadly. A rule of thumb – if you are too co ..read more

As the New Year approaches, many of us are thinking about the resolutions we want to set for ourselves. Whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, or learning a new skill, setting goals is an important part of personal growth. For those of us who rely on service dogs or emotional support animals, setting resolutions that include our furry companions can help us strengthen our bond and improve their well-being. In this post, we’ll explore some ideas for New Year resolutions that will help both you and your service dog or emotional support animal thrive. From setting training goals to takin ..read more

For those who have ever indulged in the film “Dr. Doolittle” and allowed their minds to wander into the realm of fantasy, pondering the notion of conversing with their own beloved canine companion is something we would all love to do. Our furry friends possess an innate ability to communicate; it is merely our own shortcomings that hinder our understanding of their complex messages. Most dog owners have tried at some point to decifer their dogs body language and facial expressions. Have you ever found yourself yearning to comprehend the inner workings of your loyal companion’s thoughts? By del ..read more

Being in that “Can I Pet Your Dog” situation is something we can all relate to. When we’re out and about, we come across an irresistibly cute fluffy creature and we can’t resist reaching out to give it a gentle touch. It’s highly likely that we’ve also experienced the other side of this scenario, when our own dog becomes the center of attention for a passerby. Yet, comprehend we must. Because, believe it or not, few dogs automatically love being on a leash and touched by strangers. As hard as it is for us to accept, that quiet dog being petted may well be hating every moment that the huma ..read more

If you find yourself grappling with your dog’s disobedience, attempting to discern methods of captivating and maintaining their focus is likely at the forefront of your concerns. However, before you embark on hours of research regarding unruly canine behavior, we bring you uplifting news — your dog’s reluctance to comply with your requests is not an intentional act of mischief. Often, our canine companions become engrossed in the array of stimuli surrounding them, such as sights, sounds, and smells, or simply fail to comprehend the nature of our demands.  Whether you are befuddled by you ..read more

Boosting your dog’s obedience during walks, whether you aim to teach them to come back to you off leash or to walk well beside you, is a priority for most dog owners. Ensuring that your dog stays engaged with you is key to achieving this goal. To have an obedient dog during walks, you must become the most captivating thing in their surroundings. This entails avoiding any distractions, such as phones or other human-centered activities. Instead, focus on giving praise and maintaining regular eye contact with your dog. Additionally, using high-value rewards specifically outdoors is crucial. Ordin ..read more

Mastering the “Leave it Command” Training a dog requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of their needs and behaviors. One essential command that every dog owner should teach their furry friend is the “Leave It” command. This powerful tool not only helps to establish boundaries and prevent destructive behavior, but it also teaches dogs self-control and impulse management. In this artice, we will take you through the step-by-step process of mastering the “Leave It” command. From understanding the importance of this command to effective training techniques and practical applicati ..read more