By Margie RuckerReprinted from: The Canine Chronicle Piper is my Service Dog. Piper does not look like the typical service dog. Piper's undeniable charm, stature, and jolly demeanor elicits amused skepticism and, occasionally, unkind comments. Over time I've learned that all responses are opportunities for me to provide accurate information and to advocate for the […]

by Sandra MurrayReprinted from: Essential Elements, ShowSight Magazine   Reprinted from: Essential Elements, ShowSight Magazine As a youngster she had won her breed’s National Sweepstakes. Not long after that win, she finished her championship with three 5 point majors, all at large regional specialties. During her specials career she earned multiple Group placements and Best […]

Some owners feel that when they leave their puppy or dog alone in a crate or enclosed area it would be best to give him a view outdoors so he will not become bored. Then they place the crate or exercise pen in front of a window or glass door so the dog can see out.  […]

Weighing the Decision to Euthanize Your DogMaking the decision to help a pet die is one of the most difficult you’ll ever make. It starts with deciding when to do it. This is different for every person and for every dog. Many people, in consultation with their vets, believe euthanasia is best before a dog […]

Note: Obsessive-compulsive behavior is a serious problem and depending on the severity, it can result in harm to the dog. For critical behavior problems, a qualified behaviorist should work in conjunction with a veterinarian to solve the problem. Kiwi’s Story A strong desire to engage in a game of fetch when a ball is thrown […]

What you may consider simply an indulgent spa service can actually benefit your pet’s mental and physical health. Massage may reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Also, it can help to identify new growths at an early stage. The best part? You don’t even […]

Buster’s owners did not want him because he kept running away. Rather than provide secure fencing or a kennel, they dumped him at the shelter. Today, the 3-year-old Labrador mix still specializes in escaping without jumping over a single gait or slipping through any open doors. Buster helps a war veteran escape from his bad […]

Nola is a former honorable mention award winner in the AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence. She makes school very special for many students at a New Jersey school. Since April 2012, Nola has served as the therapy dog for the Little Egg Harbor School District in the southernmost part of Ocean County, NJ. […]

A Canine Good Citizen is a dog that passes the 10-step CGC test, and is accordingly recognized for meeting the gold standard for dog behavior. AKC sends a certificate suitable for framing to the owners of those dogs. Dogs with the CGC title are also listed in AKC records with the "CGC" suffix after their […]

This is the first in a series on some of the All American Dogs who will be competing in the 2016 AKC Obedience Classic this weekend (Dec. 17-18) in Orlando, FL. Qualifying dogs will compete at all levels of AKC Obedience at the event, held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship and AKC Agility […]