Does Your Dog Like to Swim?

Did you introduce your dog to water and he or she absolutely loves the water? Or maybe the opposite...you introduced them to water and your dog just does not want anything to do with it.

Animal Planet writes that when it comes to swimming, canines generally fall into one of three categories. There are those that can swim, those that can be taught to swim and those that should steer clear of all aqueous environments.

Animal Planet explains that the low and lovable sturdy breeds like bulldogs, dachshunds and boxers do not have enough thrust from their short legs to keep them afloat in aquatic environments. Breeds that have short faces, such as the pug, also have a very hard time swimming since they fatigue easily. Small dogs such as the Maltese and Chihuahua are sometimes good swimmers, but may become easily chilled or frightened in the water, which can increase the risk of drowning.

Dogtime lists 10 dog breeds that love the water. 

Here are some ideas on how to try to make your dog like water.

Here are a few tips on how to teach your dog how to swim.

Does your dog like to swim and they are missing from the list of 10 dog breeds that love the water? I know some Jack Russell Terriers that can't get enough of the water. Tell us about others that are missing.

I'm Still Here...But a Slim, Trim, More Active Ginger

It's me, Ginger and I have some good news.... I began the fitness program at Morris Animal Inn on June 4 at 91.6 lbs and 30 inches around the waist. As of today, I am at 82 lbs and a slim 26 inches around my waist. Whoo hoo! Look at me now...

I have so much energy. If you adopt me, I will run with you, play with you, give you kisses and make sure that you know I appreciate you. If you are interested in adopting me, please contact Eleventh Hour Rescue at (973) 664-0865 or visit the Eleventh Hour Rescue website for more information. 

Dogs and Cats Eat Grass.... Why?

Why dogs and cats eat grass is a common question. Do they just like the way it tastes? In researching why they eat grass, we found that this can be normal for both dogs and cats. There are some theories as to why this is the case.

For cats, one theory according to petmd.com, is the juice in the grass contains folic acid, which is an essential vitamin that they received from their mother's milk. Sometimes cats throw up after eating grass because they lack the necessary enzymes to break it down in their system.

For dogs, grass can actually aid them in digestion according to pets.webmd.com. The issue is if their is an accidental ingestion of  grass that has been treated with chemicals. If you notice your dog is eating grass frequently, a trip to the vet might be necessary because it could be more serious. This is important to do for both dogs and cats.

In the end, there seems to be several different reasons why dogs and cats like to eat grass... What do you think?