Articles written by Joy Butler
Showing 1-100 of 230 Articles
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Adopting Retired Military Working Dogs
Passed in 2000, HR 5314 allows these forgotten canine soldiers who have served their country a chance at an honorable retirement if suitable homes can be found.
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How to Make Your Dog's Coat Shiny
A quality dog food, supplements, brushing, proper shampoos and veterinary care are important to healthy canine skin and coat.
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Unique Christmas Gift Ideas for the Dog Lover
Christmas shopping for the dog lover who has everything can be a challenge but unique gifts like a DNA breed test kit or pet collar camera might make her smile.
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Keeping the Christmas Tree and the Dog Safe
Christmas ornaments, pine needles, poinsettias, turkey bones, and gift wrap ribbons can all be harmful to dogs. Pet-proof for a safe Christmas.
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Scottish Terrier, Sadie, Wins National Dog Show
Two new herding breeds and a sporting breed competed in the 2009 Philadelphia dog show but a Scottie named Champion Roundtown Mercedes of Maryscot won Best in Show.
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Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Dog
There's nothing wrong with the usual squeaky toys for your dog but the gift ideas on this list, ranging in price from free to luxury, can make the holidays special.
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Does Your Dog Need a Flu Shot?
While humans worry about H1N1 virus, dog owners may consider whether to give their dog a flu vaccine to immunize against the contagious canine, H3N8 influenza virus.
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Can Dogs Catch Swine Flu?
Cat diagnosed with swine flu has pet owners asking if the new strain of swine flu virus can be transmitted between dogs and cats and humans.
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What Kind of Dog Do I Have?
With a simple cheek swab at home, the new and cheaper Wisdom Panel Insights DNA testing offers owners an ancestry report to help with care and training of mixed breeds.
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Dog's Swollen Ear Flap May Be a Hematoma
Bleeding under the skin of the pinna causes a puffy appearance known as an aural hematoma and should be treated by a veterinarian to prevent infection, pain and scarring.
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Tax Deduction for Dog Owners
The proposed HAPPY Act could help pet owners better afford veterinary bills by deducting qualified pet care costs up to $3500 on income tax returns.
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Shandy Helps Children Learn to Read
Good reading skills, and maybe a dog, are essential to a good education. When a child has trouble learning to read, one solution can be a reading assistance dog.
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Understanding Those Fancy Show Dog Names
Show dog registered names can indicate the kennel, breeder, and litter theme, however, call names are similar to pet dog names.
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Cherry Eye in Canines
When the tear gland of the third eyelid slips out of place and becomes inflamed, the medical term is nictitans gland prolapse, but may not be as serious as it appears.
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The National Dog Show
For many families, the NBC television special featuring purebred show dogs immediately after the Macy's parade, is becoming a popular Turkey Day tradition.
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The Puggle
Breeders create these crossbreed, designer dogs with no breed standard but most Puggles love children and can be an energetic, loyal, and intelligent family pet.
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Reading Education Assistance Dogs
Reading assistance dogs are therapy animals that patiently listen to children read stories to help students improve reading skills and build self esteem.
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World's Oldest Dogs Live More Than Twenty Years
Chanel, a Dachshund mix, lived to age 21; Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, lived to age 29. Here's how to help your senior dog live longer.
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Probiotics and Prebiotics for Dogs
Feeding probiotics and prebiotics in the canine diet have been shown to improve digestive function and overall health.
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Why Dachshunds Have Back Problems
A wobbly gait, hunched walking or yelping when lifted often indicates a spinal injury in chondrodystrophic breeds such as the Dashchund.
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Jobs for Dog Lovers
Students, retirees, or unemployed bread winners may find work and earn supplemental income working with dogs.
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Career Choices for Dog Lovers
You don't have to be a veterinarian to have a high paying career in the canine world. Animal behaviorist and other professional positions also earn big bucks.
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Origin of the German Shepherd Dog
Kennel breeder and founder of Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde, Max von Stephanitz, bred German sheep herding dogs into a versatile working breed and companion.
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Vitiligo in Dogs
The depigmentation or loss of melanocytes that bleached out Michael Jackson's skin can also affect dogs.
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How Old is My Dog?
How can I tell how old my dog is? For dog owners who have found a stray or adopted a rescue puppy, there are ways to estimate its approximate age.
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Hairless Dog Breeds
Skin problems and dental issues may plague hairless breeds but these unique dogs make great pets with minimal doggy odor, allergens, fleas, and coat clipping.
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Dogs and Seizures
Called seizure, convulsion, fit, and epilepsy, this fainting, thrashing, shaking behavior alarms dog owners but here's what to do.
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Dog Crates, Kennels, and Carriers
A variety of dog crates, kennels, and portable carriers, available in plastic, wire and nylon, are designed for transportation or housetraining.
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Protecting Your Dog's Feet from Summer Burns
Dog foot pads are generally tough protection for the feet but walking on hot surfaces in summer can cause burns, blisters, soreness, and infection.
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Thermo Regulating Beds or Cooling Dog Mats
Cooling beds or thermo regulating mats, as well as vests and bandanas, and plenty of water can help keep dogs from getting too hot, outdoors or in.
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Charity Help with Veterinary Bills
Recession, unemployment and economic hardship make many pet owners unable to afford expensive medical care for their dog, but some charities and organizations can help.
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Can Your Dog be a Movie Star?
Movie makers issue a casting call for a three-legged dog who has overcome great odds to star in the character of Scrap in the upcoming film, Lucky and Rich.
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Airlines Allowing Pets in Main Cabin of Plane
Southwest, United, Continental airline flights allow pets to travel with owners in the main cabin but is it fair to allergic passengers?
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Some Toads are Toxic to Dogs
While most toads are relatively harmless to dogs, two common US species secrete a venom that can pose a toxic danger to dogs, if ingested.
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Dangers of Dogs Eating Acorns
Vomiting, diarrhea, and renal failure may be symptoms shown by dogs eating acorns or drinking water that oak leaves have soaked in.
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Traveling With Dogs
DogTravel Company makes arrangements for individuals or groups who don't want to board their dogs or put them in cargo.
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Guide Dogs for the Blind
May is National Guide Dog Month. Guide dog institutions and puppy raisers breed and train dogs to assist blind and seeing-impaired people.
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Aggressive Dogs and Breed Bans
Veterinary research and real life stories may prove that there are no dangerous breeds, only bad dog owners.
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Can Dogs Get Swine Flu?
With swine flu cases turning up in Mexico, the US, and other countries, some dog owners have asked if swine flu virus can be transmitted to or from dogs.
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Signs of Overheating in Dogs
Dogs having fun in summer heat, just like dogs in parked cars, can become overheated, not realizing they are too hot until body temperature soars dangerously high.
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Can Chihuahuas Cure Asthma?
The belief that a Chihuahua can "take away" asthma from its owner is still held by some, however medical experts reject the idea that the folk remedy can cure asthma.
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Portuguese Water Dog
With Bo Obama bringing fame to the Portie, unscrupulous breeders may be out for profit but this thick coated, energetic dog is not right for every family.
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Obama's Dog
The new First Dog, a hypoallergenic breed, is a rescue and gift from Ted Kennedy to the Obama daughters, Sasha and Malia.
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Feeding Dogs Table Foods
Most dog owners admit to sharing people foods with their fur friend occasionally but how many of them know what is safe and healthy for dogs and what can be dangerous?
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How to Save Money with the Dog
Economic recession has forced some families to give up the dog but some are looking for ways to cut pet costs and avoid giving up a best friend who may even help save.
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Soldiers' Pets Need Foster Homes
Foster families support troops by caring for dogs, cats and other animals until they can be reunited with owners away in military service.
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Plants that are Toxic to Dogs
Spring lawns blooming with beautiful plants and shrubs may be dangerous for pets. Make safe gardening choices and avoid poisonous plants that can make your dog sick.
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Wheely Willy and Deb Turner Accident Recovery
Deborah Turner and Wheely Willy, a 20 year old paraplegic Chihuahua and therapy dog, resume humane education as they recuperate from a serious accident.
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Top Ten Dog Breeds of AKC for 2008
Every year, AKC releases a list of its most popular registered dog breeds. Labradors, Yorkies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers still lead in 2008.
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How to Give Oral Medication to a Dog
Some dogs swallow a pill, capsule, or liquid willingly while others repeatedly spit it out. Learn these tips and tricks for giving medicine to a dog.
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Music for Dogs
Noise can cause anxiety and fears in dogs while soothing music calms and reduces behavior problems.
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Should I Microchip My Dog?
Microchips safely bring home many lost pets but drawbacks like non-universal scanning technology and risks of cancer concern some dog owners.
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Ear Infections in Dogs
Dog owners who notice head shaking, ear scratching, or tilted head in their pet may be seeing symptoms of ear infection which needs prompt treatment for cure.
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Parvovirus, a Deadly Canine Disease
Parvovirus causes vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration in dogs. Recognition of symptoms and prompt, aggressive treatment increases the odds of survival
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Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs
Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and causes symptoms of intense itching, crusty skin, and hair loss, however, diagnosis and treatment are usually successful.
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Demodex or Red Mange Affects Puppies
Demodectic mange, sometimes called Demodicosis, occurs in puppies with an underdeveloped immune system. Diagnosis and treatment are usually successful.
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Best Dog Breeds for Children
Temperament, size, and potential for training are important in selecting a family dog for kids.
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Best Dog Breeds for the Elderly
Choosing the right dog for an older person provides companionship, security, health benefits, exercise, and social opportunities.
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Iditarod 2009
The Last Great Race on Earth, a grueling dog event that has been protested by some, requires much training and preparation of the huskies and mushers.
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Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
Many dog owners can live happily and peaceably in an apartment or condominium if they choose the right dog and follow pet rules.
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Dog Intelligence or Anthropomorphism?
How much are dogs like humans? New research is showing more emotion and intelligence in man's best friend.
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Cancer in Dogs
Dog owners who know the symptoms to watch for can aid in early diagnosis of tumors and cancer in dogs. Prognosis is good with early treatment.
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Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show 2009
Dog shows, benefits, brunches, symposiums, art shows, and awards are scheduled in celebration of Westminster Week in New York City.
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Do Dogs Need Heartworm Preventive in Winter?
Some dog owners believe it's safe to stop heartworm preventive in cold weather but there are risks with this practice.
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Would My Dog Be a Good Therapy Dog?
Therapy dogs have a special personality and talent for visiting nursing homes and hospitals to lift spirits and promote healing.
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Strange Looking Dog Breeds
Wrinkled, hairless, matted or flat faced, unusual dogs are popular pets, but some have special needs.
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Why the Shar Pei Has Wrinkles
A recently discovered genetic alteration in the Shar Pei dog breed explains the wrinkling of its skin.
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Pet Food Banks Help Low Income Pet Owners
Volunteers donate food, cash, and time to assist dog and cat owners who can't afford to buy food for their pets in tough economic times.
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The Chiweenie
The Chiweenie is not a breed, but a cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. Do potential adopters understand the risks of this designer dog?
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How to Make a Doggy Shirt for Toy Breeds
Homemade dog clothes can be quick, easy and inexpensive. Very little sewing for this craft makes dressing your toy breed creative and fun.
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DNA Tests for Mixed Breed Dogs
DNA testing can be a valuable tool for dog owners in understanding their pet's behavior and health risks, but is it foolproof?
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How to Choose a Good Boarding Kennel
In an increasingly transient society, many dog owners must choose between friends, pet sitters, cageless boarders, or boarding kennels for pet care.
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Christmas Trees with a Doggy Theme
When Christmas season rolls around, a Christmas tree decorated with doggy ornaments may be found in the dog lover's home.
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Dog Parks
Dog parks can provide important exercise and socialization for dog owners and their furkids, as long as safety rules are observed.
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Dogs, Holiday Foods, and Pancreatitis
Veterinarians see more cases of vomiting and diarrhea during holidays. Halloween candy, Thanksgiving turkey, and Christmas gravy can cause pancreatitis in dogs.
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Adopt a Shelter Dog Month
Many shelters are offering discounts on adoption fees in October but there are many other benefits of adopting a shelter dog.
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Doggy Halloween Costumes
Whether for party, costume contest, or trick or treating, dressing up dogs on Halloween can be fun, as long as safety and comfort is priority.
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Holiday Gourmet Treats for Dogs
Families celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas with special treats. With dogs more and more a part of family, pampered pooches expect their own gourmet treats.
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The Chupacabra of South Texas
Chupacabra tales make spooky Halloween lore. The 'goatsucker' story originated in Puerto Rico where mysterious creatures sucked the blood from goats and small animals.
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Petco Unleashed Chihuahua Races
Petco Unleashed Chihuahua racing of 2008 saw nearly 2900 tiny dogs' run in regional competitions in a bid for America's Fastest Chihuahua title.
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How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Brushing your dog's teeth should be daily routine. A few tips can help dogs get used to doggy dental hygiene.
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Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Good dental care is important for every dog's overall health. Your dog's toothbrush, dental chewies, and vet cleanings can prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease.
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Dogs and Antifreeze Poisoning
Most antifreeze products contain ethylene glycol which is poison when ingested by pets or humans, causing kidney failure and death.
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Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Sometimes called Old Dog Syndrome, CDS causes confusion and behavior changes in half of aging dogs and has been compared to Alzheimer's. Treatment is available.
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Should I Get a Second Dog?
Many happy families have two or more dogs. Getting a second dog has its benefits as well as disadvantages.
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Hurricane Gustav Pets
As the ominous clouds of Hurricane Gustav rolled into Louisiana on Labor Day, Gulf Coast pets were much better prepared than were pets of New Orleans when Katrina hit.
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How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?
Too many baths can dry a dog's skin but no one wants a dirty dog. Can sponge baths or dry baths take the place of shampoo and water?
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Going Green With the Dog
Dogs may not be concerned with saving the earth but today's dog owners find themselves recycling and choosing biodegradable pet products.
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Dog Clothes
Pet fashion has never been cuter. Dog clothes dress up small breeds but also keep them warm when cold winter comes.
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American Eskimo Dog
Once called circus dogs, the snowy white Eskie makes a great family dog, alert watch dog, and competitor in obedience and agility. They come in three sizes.
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Health Risks of Obesity in Dogs
Veterinarians claim that obesity is a major cause of health problems in dogs today. Understanding the dangers can inspire us to keep our pets a healthy weight.
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When Your Dog Has Travel Anxiety
Dog owners love to take their canine companion on car trips, but a scared dog ruins the ride. However, dogs can learn to overcome car anxiety.
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Dogs Test Osseointegration Prostheses
Veterinary medicine is pioneering in osseointegration implants. Two dogs, happy to be back on all fours, are paving the way for human surgery.
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Arthritis in Dogs
Although arthritis is progressive, many dogs respond well to treatment for osteoarthritis and inflammatory joint disease. Recognize the signs and get early treatment.
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Should I Debark My Barking Dog?
Understand the risks, reasons, and procedures of the surgery that removes canine vocal cords.
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Getting Fit with Your Dog
Walking, swimming, doggy freestyle dancing, and harness activities are a few ways to control weight, live longer and have fun and fitness with your dog.
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Dogs and Sunburn
Dogs, just like humans, need protection from the harmful effects of the sun.
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How to Teach Your Dog Tricks
Through positive training methods and patience, your dog will have fun as he learns how to roll over and do other tricks.
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Weiner Dog Races
Dachshund races are fun and raise money for good causes yet animal rights activists are concerned about this sport.
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Shelter Volunteer Project for Kids
Pet shelters depend on volunteers. Kids can organize fun projects or donate time and energy to help homeless pets.
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