The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent and agile of all dogs. Sadly, this breed is often misunderstood - some think it is hyperactive, destructive and difficult to train. The truth is quite the opposite. The Border Collie, or BC is among the easiest dogs to train if you know what you are doing. If not, you will have a dog with so much pent up energy, that he must find another way to release it (perhaps by ripping up your couch or running off through the neighborhood). The key to keeping a BC happy is to give him a job to do. "Eager to please" hardly describes the dynamic BC. These dogs are driven! Plus, they make affectionate and loyal companions. Border Collies are often seen as champion disc dogs, agility competitors and herders. Why? Because the combination of their smarts and fervor is the perfect recipe for success in dog sports. BCs are naturally athletic, agile and brainy. If you get a Border Collie and treat him right, you will have a canine soul-mate for life. BCs bond very closely with their humans, especially if they participate in activities together. Are you enamored with the amazing Border Collie? Tell us about yours, and submit your photos!
Photo by Doug Pensinger / Getty Images
For many, the Saint Bernard conjures images of huge rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps carrying barrels of an alcoholic beverage on their collars. While it is true that they were skilled search and rescue dogs, the barrels are actually folklore. This is good news for the many thousand travelers assisted by Saint Bernards throughout the 17th-20th century, as alcohol would have actually caused more harm than good. The "barrel myth" likely snowballed into legend after it was portrayed in a painting by Edwin Landseer entitled Alpine Mastiffs Reanimating a Distressed Traveler. In fact, much of the Saint Bernard's history is cloaked in legend and the truth is debated by many. The indisputable fact is that Saint Bernards are massive dogs with even bigger hearts. Though they still have the ability to be excellent working dogs, Saints are typically seen as gentle, lovable family companions. The breed was also made famous when it was portrayed as a lovable goofball in the film Beethoven and its many sequels. So, what's your take on the legends? Are you devoted to the giant and lovable Saint Bernard? Tell us more, and send pictures!
Photo © Oni Saints on flickr
The Papillon is a delightful little dog with a dainty appearance. This breed is sturdier than it looks, but should still be handled with care. Full of life, this breed was named after the French word for butterfly because of it's signature erect ears. You may not know this, but some Papillons actually have floppy ears. If you know Papillons, than you know what a pleasure it can be to spend your time with them. Friendly and active, this breed is very interactive and affectionate. With proper training and care, it can be a wonderful addition to all kinds of households. Are you a fan? Tell us more about the lovable Papillon. Wanted: Dog Pictures! They can be of any breed or mix, just tell me a little bit about them and you might see them show up on the About Dogs site.
Photo courtesy Dan & Jo Olson
Once upon a time, people thought that dog saliva had healing properties. This old adage probably stemmed from seeing dogs lick their wounds after injury. We now know that this is not the case. In fact, a dog's mouth contains many strains of bacteria. This bacteria generally causes no harm to the skin, but can cause infection if it enters an open wound - usually from a bite. As a vet tech, I have seem many co-workers develop infections from animal bites. I've had one or two bites myself that turned into minor infections. One of the most common of these bacteria is Staphylococcus aureus. Typically, a round of antibiotics will do the trick, though some serious infections require hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics. In short, animal bites are no fun. Unfortunately, research has shown the emergence of a potentially life-threatening methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections shared between pets and human handlers. MRSA infections are especially difficult to treat because they do not respond to the usual antibiotics. Most common are skin, soft-tissue, and surgical infections. MRSA infections in pets are often acquired from their owners and can may even cycle back and forth between pets and humans. Because they are drug-resistant, minor infections can easily turn into serious conditions like sepsis. So, what does this all mean to you? First of all there is no need to panic. Second of all, don't banish your dog from the house. MRSA is not easily transmitted through normal contact - it is usually contracted through bites or scratches. Take measures to prevent dog bites, wash your hands frequently and keep your dog healthy. If you do get bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention right away. Cats can be affected by MRSA infections, too. Read about cats and MRSA from Cats Guide Franny Syufy:
Skin Infections Linked to Cat Bite, Scratches Learn more about MRSA infections from Veterinary Medicine Guide Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM:
MRSA and Pets - Infection Connection
Poll: Will the threat of MRSA change the way you interact with your dog?
We all love looking at pictures of cute critters, right? That's why I'm looking for more photos for the Dogs site. So, if you have some that you'd like to show off, check out the photo submission guidelines. Big or small, old or young, mutt or purebred - all are welcome. Speaking of photos, I am so pleased to announce that I have been asked to be a judge in the Cutest Cat Picture Contest. Cats Guide Franny Syufy has already gotten tons of great cat photo entries, but time is not up. If you are also a cat lover, why not enter the contest or check out the gallery. The contest ends on July 5th, so you still have time!
Photo © Brygida T.
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