Archive for September 2011

Dogs bark by nature, but incessant barking can be a nuisance to pet owners and irritate the neighbors. The key to curbing excessive barking is to understand why your dog is barking. Is your dog barking for attention? Does your dog have separation anxiety? Is your dog protecting his territory? Here are reasons why dogs barks and how to remedy the situation.

1. Attention bark. You must show your dog that barking for attention doesn't work. If your dog whines or barks for attention, completely ignore him. Don't acknowledge him, make eye contact, or speak to him until he calms down. Once he calms down, you can tell him he is a good dog.

2. Territorial bark. The key to this type of bark is to acknowledge it. Your dog is trying to tell you that someone is close to your property. On the first bark, tell your dog "good job." On the second bark tell your dog "that's enough." If your dog continues to bark, send him to a designated place, "that's enough Rover, get in your bed."

3. Separation anxiety bark. With this type of bark, you have to teach your dog it's not a big deal to be alone. When you leave the house, don't make a big production. Don't say good-bye, give him treats or anything that signals that you leaving an "event." When you come home, don't make a big deal. When you dog gets excited, don't look at him or acknowledge him until he calms down. When he does this, you can tell him "good dog."

Tip. Teach your dog a no bark command. Train your dog to go to a place upon command. For example, "go to your bed." So when your dog barks, you can send him to the designated place to distract him from barking.

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At Best Bully Sticks we consider your pets part of our pack and family. Like our beloved pugs Sushi & Espy, we only want to give your furry family member the best in healthy, safe pet products. We are constantly searching for the best of the best so if you have any feedback or product suggestions please let us know. So here is what’s new on the site and in our wag of the woods! Please be sure to check out our bark-worthy new products for everything we have added in the last month.

Introducing Pawbreakers! The Catnip Candy for Cats

Pawbreakers Original are a unique, all natural solid ball of top quality USA grown catnip. Pawbreakers is made from 100% USA Grown Catnip. It is simply a solid ball of top quality catnip, specially combined with a food-grade binding agent to make a tasty toy that can be chased and eaten by your pet with practically no mess. Your kitty will love to chase, lick and eat them! Watch the excitement as your cats go crazy for Pawbreakers Original! Also be sure to try Pawbreakers Plus +, with a nutrient supplement for your kitty.

Pawbreakers don’t require any special preparation to provide hours of fun and excitement for your cat, but with a little creativity, you can discover countless new experiences for your pet to enjoy!

Made in the USA. Available individually and in packs of three.

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Become a Facebook Fan, “Like” our page & Help us reach 10,000 fans.

When we reach 10,000 fan “Likes” all of our Facebook fans will be eligible to enter a giveaway to win a grand prize. We can’t spill the beans yet! The quicker we get to 10,000 “Likes” the sooner you can learn what that grand prize is. Thanks for “Liking” our page.

At Best Bully Sticks we consider your pets part of our pack and family. Like our beloved pugs Sushi & Espy, we only want to give your furry family member the best in healthy, safe pet products. We are constantly searching for the best of the best so if you have any feedback or product suggestions please let us know. So here is what’s new on the site and in our wag of the woods! Please be sure to check out our bark-worthy new products for everything we have added in the last month.

Introducing 10" Inch Grass Fed Angus Tripe Springs for Dogs - 5 Pack

Introducing a great new dog treat to Best Bully Sticks!

Grass Fed Angus Beef Tripe Springs are a great way for your dog to enjoy tripe. There are no by-products, grains, hormones, preservatives, smoke, steroids or supplements added. These nutritious dog treats come from angus cows that are 100% grass-fed at their home on the range. Superior quality chews, they are 100% all natural and therefore unique in both size and shape.

Not only are these treats healthy for your dog but they taste great too! They'll last a considerable amount of time, but not as long as a bully stick. But the great taste of grass fed angus tripe will keep them wanting more!

Our Grass Fed Angus Tripe Springs range in length from 10" to 11" inches. Available in 5 Packs.

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Become a Facebook Fan, “Like” our page & Help us reach 10,000 fans.

When we reach 10,000 fan “Likes” all of our Facebook fans will be eligible to enter a giveaway to win a grand prize. We can’t spill the beans yet! The quicker we get to 10,000 “Likes” the sooner you can learn what that grand prize is. Thanks for “Liking” our page.

Does your canine companion have a birthday coming up? Or would you perhaps just like to surprise him with a tasty treat? Well it's time to batter up! Whip up a batch of these simple, healthy and delicious Fruit n Oat Pupcakes for that special canine in your life. These pupcakes are topped with a special low fat dog-friendly frosting. Dig in!

Pupcake Batter Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
3/4 unsweetened applesauce
1 1/2 cups flour
3/4 cup rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla

1 large egg

Directions

1. Mix bananas and applesauce together, then beat in egg.

2. Toss in all the dry ingredients, and beat until mixed.

3. Bake at 180C (350F) for 25 minutes.

4. Frost when cooled (if desired).

Dog-friendly frosting Ingredients

180g (6 oz) light cream cheese
2 tblsp plain yogurt
2 tblsp honey
Flour

Directions

1. Beat cream cheese, yogurt and honey until smooth.

2. Add enough flour to thicken until you reach a good spreading consistency.

Courtesy of all-about-cupcakes.com

Stay tuned for delicious dog recipes every Wednesday in our Weekly Drool Recipes blog series. Check out our other drool-worthy recipes! Also, remember food is meant to be shared! So be a pal and submit your favorite dog recipes to be featured in this delicious blog series by emailing us at bestbullysticks@gmail.com.

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When we reach 10,000 fan “Likes” all of our Facebook fans will be eligible to enter a giveaway to win a grand prize. We can’t spill the beans yet! The quicker we get to 10,000 “Likes” the sooner you can learn what that grand prize is. Thanks for “Liking” our page.

Your dog’s feet sure are made for walking, but did you know they are also made for protecting? Pads provide extra cushioning to help protect bones and joints from shock, provide insulation against extreme weather, aid walking on rough ground and help protect tissue deep within the paw. With all that work to do, it’s no wonder your pooch’s paws often take a bit of a beating. Keep a spring in your pet’s step with the ASPCA's top 10 paw care tips:

1. Pamper With Pedicures: Your dog's nails should just about touch the ground when she walks. If her nails are clicking or getting snagged on the floor, it's time for a pedicure. Ask your veterinarian or a groomer for advice about what types of nail trimmers are best for your dog and how to use them properly.

2. Snip and Trim: Trim paw hair regularly to avoid painful matting. Simply comb hair out, especially from between the toes, and trim even with the pads.

3. Clean In Between: Foreign objects can become lodged in your dog’s pads. Check regularly between toes for foxtails, pebbles, small bits of broken glass and other debris. These pesky items can usually be removed with a pair of tweezers.

4. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: A dog’s pads can become cracked and dry. Ask your veterinarian for a good pad moisturizer and use as directed. Avoid human hand moisturizer, as this can soften the pads and lead to injury.

5. Deep Paw Massage: Similar to giving a human hand massage, a paw massage will relax your dog and promote better circulation. Start by rubbing between the pads on the bottom of the paw, and then rub between each toe. Your dog will be forever grateful for the extra TLC!

6. Slow and Steady: If you’re about to begin a new exercise program with your dog, start off slow. Paws may become sensitive, chaffed or cracked, particularly when starting your dog out on hikes and runs.

7. Apply First Aid: It's not unusual for dogs to suffer cuts or other wounds from accidentally stepping on glass, debris or other objects. Wounds that are smaller than a half inch in diameter can be cleaned with an antibacterial wash and wrapped with a light bandage. For deeper paw cuts, see the vet for treatment.

8. Summertime Sores: Imagine stepping barefoot onto hot pavement. Ouch! It is important to remember your dog’s paws feel heat extremes, too. To prevent burns and blisters, avoid walking your dog on hot pavement or sand. Signs include blisters, loose flaps of skin and red, ulcerated patches. For minor burns, apply antibacterial wash and cover the paw with a loose bandage. For serious burns, visit your vet immediately.

9. Wintertime Blues: Winter is hard on everyone’s skin, even your dog’s! Bitter cold can cause chapping and cracking. Rock salt and chemical ice melters can cause sores, infection and blistering. Toxic chemicals can also be ingested by your dog when he licks his paws. After outdoor walks, wash your dog’s paws in warm water to rinse away salt and chemicals. You may wish to apply Vaseline, a great salt barrier, to the foot pads before each walk—or make sure your dog wears doggie booties.

10. Practice Prevention: To reduce the risk of injury, keep your home and yard clear of pointy bits and pieces. Be conscious to avoid hazards such as broken glass and other debris when walking your dog. And keep this simple tip in mind—if you wouldn’t like to walk on it barefoot, neither will your dog!

Start today by helping your beloved dog put his/her best paw forward!

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When we reach 10,000 fan “Likes” all of our Facebook fans will be eligible to enter a giveaway to win a grand prize. We can’t spill the beans yet! The quicker we get to 10,000 “Likes” the sooner you can learn what that grand prize is. Thanks for “Liking” our page.