tea tree oil caution
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Fw: update
> Hi, > > We are getting acquainted and enjoying our "new baby"...75 pounds and 2 year > baby. The transition is going very well with our resident dog. He has been > very accepting of his new sister and tolerant, although there has been > alittle growling and barking when it comes to favorite toy and Mom. I am > very careful to be certain that I acknowledge Mr. before Miss at this point > in everything. > > Within twenty four hour they have slept near each other touching paws - > without griping about it. Shared the back seat of the Jeep - without > griping about it. Played with the family in the back yard (two balls thrown > in different direction) - with alittle bit of griping about it. Slept in > our room with their own beds - no griping allowed. > > There has been no fussing at all when I have handed food, prepared their > meals, fed them, handed out treats or licked peanut butter off of my > fingers. They would like to steal food from each other - but one would have > to cross over alpha momma territory (big griping would happen then from > Mom), they are getting comfortable with each other. > > Now, that being said - Caspar has developed a whole new set of body language > and vocabulary when it comes to his BiG new sister... > > The "mother if you please..." look with head turned to the side sitting very > proper...best straight sit he's ever done... > > The " would you kindly remove your big tail from my face" > > The 'rolled eyes" looking upward as she rolls over for belly rubs. > > The "mom - will she ever learn to sit and lay down" sigh as he wait for her > to get it.. > > It's "MY ball" and you "Can't" have it... seconds later he brings the > ball and puts it between her feet and runs off... > > "Would you kindly REMOVE that big paw from my furry person" > > It's alot like watching school kids getting one another's attentionI > like ya - I wanna like ya - I don't like ya - "where did she go" like ya - > girls! they worry about their hair - Boys! they don't care how they > smelletc... > > It is fun - it is crazy - there is alittle more hair on the floor - but it > is fun..and we are thrilled that she is here. > > hugs to all > gone to the dogs > > LeAnn Zogg - Don, Cheryl, Caspar and Ursa > Pax and Paws >
Signature Berner Calendar -- Order yours (and one or two for a friend ;-) TODAY!!!!
The Signature Berners 2003 Calendar is an 81/2 x 11 inch color 12-month calendar featuring over a dozen photographs of signature Berners from across the United States. The featured dogs all display distinctive markings or coloration that show the variations possible even in a marked breed such as the Bernese Mountain Dog. All profits from sales of this calendar will go to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Americas Light One Candle Lobbying Fund, which is dedicated to promoting the enactment and enforcement of laws to protect this breed against exploitation. For more information about the Lobbying effort and the Light One Candle Fund, please visit the link at www.bmdca.org. To help ensure all calendars are timely mailed, the deadline for orders is December 1, 2002. Orders received after that date will be honored according to availability of stock, but may not be received before January 1, 2003. SIGNATURE BERNERS 2003 CALENDAR ORDER FORM Name: __ Street Address: __ City/State/Zip: __ Telephone: ___ Email: Number of calendars __ @ $20.00 (U.S.)=$__.00 Plus postage __ @$ 1.30= $_ Total enclosed = $_ Please make all checks or money orders payable in U.S. dollars to the Lone Star Bernese Mountain Dog Club. Please do not send cash. For information about bulk discounts or for other information about the calendar, please contact Ann at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mail order forms and payment to: Lone Star Bernese Mountain Dog Club c/o 1507 Alta Vista Avenue Austin, Texas 78704
Fw: new family member
> Hi, > > Winter is coming towards us in North Dakota. It was a warm summer and the > fall is going too quickly! Seems the leaves turned and fell within a week > or so > > It seems the right things always happen in the order they are meant too... > > We had been happy to wait for a puppy until all things were in the right > place at the right time. This last weekend we met a young female Berner > that needed a new home. Amazingly, she was the right fit for us and our > other dog. Her personality and temperament fit well and what she needs help > with, we can give her. Even in two days, we have seen wonderful things and > potential from her. > For whatever reason, this sweetheart > came into our lives at the right time for many things..at first I was > uncertain whether we would take a re-home - but after meeting her, she was > everything I would have looked for in a puppy. She just needed the right > type of guidance and home situation. > > The hardest part of taking a dog like this - is that we really cannot go > back and thank the family that gave her up. Their thoughtfulness and > generosity to realize that the dog was not the best fit for their family - > is one of the best gifts they could have provided this dog and a blessing to > our family. The hearts this dog will touch over the years, will be more > than they could ever know. She will join our other dog as a therapy working > dog - visiting hospitals, children wards and hospice patients. Her > temperament is so incredibly gentle, wanting to please, and the spirit that > comes from her is amazing. She allows petting from strangers, places her > head on laps, gentle touches with her large paw, and cuddles the neighbor > child that is in a wheel chair at 6 years old and cannot talk. He has > learned to point and say "bow... " for dog talk. > > We are blessed with her presence. > Keep in touch and thank you again. > LeAnn Zogg > Pax and Paws >
Confidence building according to Ruth Reynold's
My younger Berner boy is a wuss. Not shy - just VERY cautious when dealing with the unknown. Have you ever watched " The wizard of Oz"? Well, my Rupert here would be the lion. Who wi-wishes he had cou-cou-courage! Hence, I eagerly read Ruth Reynold's advice on how to build confidence. We already do plenty of little exercises where Rups can excel and shine, but wait a moment - no wonder my baby boy wasn't getting any braver. I NEVER told him he was a "proud" dog. Not once! Swift to correct my lapsus in raising my wuss-ish boy, I made him sit, shake paw and told him earnestly: " You, you are a very PROUD dog!". For added emphasis I kissed him on his freckle on the nose. Which was the precise moment when I heard my spouse say " And you, you are a very STRANGE lady!" Upon which he smiled, silently raised his index finger to his temple and turned said finger in a clockwise motion. Ruth??? :-)) Michaela, Harvey & PROUD Rupert Devon/UK
Travelling tales ( part 1)
Have you ever been on vacation, felt utterly relaxed and unencumbered, worn sparklingly clean, slobber-free clothes and thought" Gosh, wouldn't it be nice to have my dogs here with me?". Have you? Well, I have. My subsequent thought, however, usually was" OK, I miss them - but it's quite nice to miss them!". Still, since I obviously need my head seen to, we took the dogs on vacation with us. To Switzerland. From Great Britain. So that they could sniff some healthy mountain air. Since they ARE Mountain Dogs, after all. Plus, we had taken Harvey abroad with us before. Surely, one more dog wouldn't make that much difference? In case you have never travelled with your dogs let me share what you can take in terms of your own luggage. Next to NOTHING. That's what. Absolutely every inch of your car will be filled with the dogs stuff. And I have a BIG car ( AND I am seriously considering purchasing a trailer for future vacations!). Neil and I had the bare minimum whilst the boys travelled with: 10 huge towels ( and, boy, did we need them - it rained and rained) A suitcase full of food, toys, first aid kit, copies of their paperwork, spare leashes, brushes, combs, blankets, bedding to cover the hotel beds, rubber glove to remove their fur from the carpets, water bowl & food bowls. Rupert's "snuggle" blanket. Harvey's beloved sheepskin rug. 1 little suitcase for the humans Now you might think that despite this we'd have plenty of space but regrettably nothing could be further from the truth. Harvey prefers having the boot ( trunk) to himself on long journeys which is understandable in view that Rupert like to lie down sprawled out like a gargantuan octopus. Thus, Harvey has the boot, Rupert the back seat and the luggage has to be squeezed in wherever possible. Anyway, off we drove, this time taking the Channel Tunnel and heading for France and Switzerland. The Channel Tunnel bit was fun, you drive into this inter-galactically looking train and emerge 35 minutes later on the other side of the English Channel. Cool! And utterly easy and non-traumatic for both us and the dogs since you can stay in the car with them. We had booked a dog friendly hotel in Calais which worked out perfectly since it had a big lawn area right outside our room. This was a particularly gods-end when Rupert developed diarrhoea at 2 30 in the morning... To be continued ( the story, not the diarrhoea) Michaela, Harvey & Rupert Devon/UK
Umbilical hernia
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Re: Confidence building according to Ruth Reynold's
In a message dated 10/14/2002 10:25:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > Which was the precise > moment when I heard my spouse say " And you, you are a very STRANGE lady!" > Upon which he smiled, silently raised his index finger to his temple and > turned said finger in a clockwise motion. I don't think any of us should EVER, EVER, put our husbands together!!! They'd have WAY too much fun... at our expense. -Sherri Venditti
Re: Canine acne?
In a message dated 10/13/2002 11:18:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I'm curious to know how many other people experienced this and if the > symptoms I describe sound familiar. Hi Julene, I've seen puppy pyoderma and adolescent acne but they didn't require any kind of treatment and I don't recall them being itchy. If your boy's really working at these spots and your vet mentioned that they're hives, maybe they're caused by an allergy (seasonal, flea, food)??? Anyone else on acne? Maybe I just haven't seen the itchy kind... -Sherri Venditti
Re: Canine acne?
In a message dated 10/13/2002 8:36:10 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > it's great for dogs that are > constantly licking their feet; as that's usually caused by a fungus!). The most common cause for foot licking is allergies. Fungal foot problems are usually a form of auto-immune disease and while they aren't rare, they're not nearly as common as allergies (except in a couple of breeds with a predisposition to them). > You > can get it at GNC or other health food stores. Just a drop of the pure oil > on your finger tip can spread all over -- you may also want to dilute it in > an oil. Do be extremely careful with tea tree oil, it can be toxic and extremely irratating. -Sherri Venditti
Digger
My 8 month old male has started a terrible habit of digging! We just completed landscaping and I think the lawn is irresistible after being watered. Maybe the fertilizer smell? I've read in my puppy books that dogs tend to start digging between 8-11 months, so he's right on track. He's started to dig in other areas of the yard as well. And the worst part is he digs even when we're outside with him and he knows he'll get trouble. I don't know if this is just a phase or if he'll eventually, hopefully, grow out of it. I'm thinking of making him his own digging spot but the lawn is his favorite spot. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Cindy
Umbilical hernia
Just looking for some info on Umbilical hernia's ?? Is this common with Berners ? What exactly is Umbilical hernia ? Does it hurt the pup/dog ?Should they be removed ?Anyone have info in this topic? Thanks,Jackie __ Post your free ad now! http://personals.yahoo.ca
San Fran. Bay area drafting?
Hi all, The following email was sent to the Carting-L, but I told the woman that I would be happy to crosspost to the L if she didn't get a response from the carting-L. The woman sent me a nice response saying that she'd be grateful if I'd post to the Berner-L for her. She would love to have somebody to help teach her carting with her mixed breed. (I think her name is Elizabeth.) Thanks for any help, Andrea Stefanac & Chance CD NDD CGC TT Richmond, VA ~~ Hi! I was wondering if anyone can tell me if there is a carting club or group in the San Francisco Bay area that allows mixed breeds. I've recently adopted a big German shepherd dog/who-knows-maybe-lab mix dog and would like to eventually teach her to cart. That's down the road a bit as she has to lose some weight and go to dog school, but in the meantime I'd like to meet some people who cart, see it in action, and learn more. Thanks for any help for a newbie! -E! [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Travelling tales ( part 2)
Far from refreshed - after all I spent most of the night taking Rupert in and out of the room - we set off at 7 30 am from Calais. It was a good thing that it was a beautiful morning since the lack of sleep had turned me somewhat into a grouch. A rather ill kempt looking grouch to boot, because after getting disrobed half a dozen times and then getting dressed again to take Rupert out yet again, I gave up and decided to sleep in my clothes. Rupert, who was feeling much better by 4 30, decided that the only way he would go to sleep was by draping himself across me and snort " phrr, phrr" into my ears. Not my idea of a relaxing sleeping position, but I was WAY to tired to argue. France is wonderful when you travel with dogs. The motorway ( interstate) has a seemingly endless amount of wooded rest areas, where you can stop for a walk or a picnic. Also, laudably, the French treat their country with a lot more respect than the English, since all the rest areas we have come across are devoid of both human and dog "litter". In addition, all the restaurants we stopped at were very happy to welcome 2 large dogs. Merci France for your hospitality! Both dogs were supremely good travellers and virtually snored the whole way. Small wonder, they had to catch up on their beauty sleep! I was sorely tempted to wake Rupert every 5 minutes just to show him what that felt like. My nobler side prevailed and we reached the Swiss border at 4 30 pm. The weather was still magnificent and we took the dogs for a good run ( secret tip for other UK travellers to Switzerland - the best motorway service station close to Zurich is "Würenlos" since just beside the service area is a gate which leads directly into the woods beside a lovely river.) We reached Flumserberg, our destination, at around 9 pm and the dogs decided that this hotel was entirely acceptable and promptly fell asleep. They blissfully slept until the next morning when the heavens opened and it rained and rained. And rained some more. After driving 1000 miles to wake up to majestic mountains we saw...well, nothing much, actually. We were in thick fog. Eerie barking resounded all over the mountains since Flumserberg was holding their yearly " dog training weeks". Dogs were EVERYWHERE. Sadly, quite a few of them weren't particularly dog-friendly but at least they were suitably under control. I don't want to generalise here, but I have often noticed that dogs in Switzerland, particularly males, have got "issues" with other dogs. That isn't to say that all English dogs are born pacifists, but you don't find that many free running dogs in popular dog walking areas who don't get on with other dogs. After a whole day of towelling wet, muddy, dogs and eating supremely good sausages, I just needed to see at least ONE mountain and some sunshine, so we headed south to the Italian speaking part of Switzerland. Now if you are ever looking for a spectacular drive, this is the one. Drive south from Zurich heading towards "Chur" and "San Bernardino" ( where the St. Bernhards came from!) and I defy anyone who says they are not awed by this scenery. It is simply breath taking. Two and a halve hours after fleeing from the wet mountain, the dogs were once again soaking wet. They hugely enjoyed swimming in the still warm lake of Lugano. The weather was gorgeous and the dogs learned to bark in Italian. :-)) To be continued Michaela
Berner sighting
Hi all, I was in Wal-Mart checking out their Christmas stuffed animals to see if a Berner would be included this year (none seen so far) and as I was leaving the store I passed a (Fuji?) film display/dispenser (very small on the end of one row). The front of the dispenser box had a photo of a small child leaning in to kiss a Berner pup on the nose. Very cute. Anyone we know? Cheers, Andrea Stefanac & Chance CD NDD CGC TT Richmond, VA
Tag Collar pouches
Hi folks, Just one thing I have noticed with these pouches particularly on long haired dogs .. they can be quite hard to see especially if they are of the same colour as the collar. Most folks take a quick look at the collar to see if anything is dangling and if not don't bother to take the collar off and look underneath or elsewhere for any info. If you don't like the sound of tags you might want to look into those collars that have the dogs name and info embroidered right into the webbing, or choose one of those tubes that contain the pertinent info that hooks onto the collar Working at a vet clinic we often get strays brought in and BY FAR the best piece of identification is the microchip. Bernerly, Angela Wagenblast Wagenblast Kennel Caledonia, Ont.
Re: Canine Acne
Hi Julene- "Puppy Acne" typically is seen when they are young pups, and are still house-training. It is especially common in female puppies who are not too clean when they pee, and sometimes they also have puppy vaginitis along with it. When they lick to clean themselves up, they can irritate the skin and get little bumps. Once the bumps arrive, there is a skin infection...and the vet will usually prescribe antibiotics to clear it up. Gently cleansing the area with warm water and a house-hold antibacterial soap (rinsing well afterwards and pat completely dry!) will help keep the bacterial in check. Since your male is an older pup (you mentioned 7 months old), I would suspect either a contact allergy or food allergy. If his belly is itchy as well as his inner thighs...my first question would be if you changed laundry detergent recently? Another thought is if he is lying outside in mulch or dry grass...possible an allergic reaction to that environment? If so...I would suggest cleansing the area (gently) with antibacterial soap, rinse well, and pat thoroughly dry. The hand soap in your bathroom will do the trick. If that is not the case...I would suggest that you try a different food. Eliminating the old food from his system will take 6-8 weeks...so you will not see improvement overnight. Keep in mind that the over the counter foods in pet stores and feed stores are NOT truly hypo-allergenic diets, even though they market them as such. They typically have meat-by-products, the first ingredient chicken,etc...so they are not truly eliminating chicken or beef from your dog's diet. I would suggest that you ask your veterinarian for a potato and duck, or venison diet to see if that does the trick. Alcohol is VERY irritating. Be very careful and dilute it when applying to the skin over and over again. If the skin is already sensitive and reactive...it may not be the best product to use to help clear up the infection. Ruling out things one by one is essential. Since you are not seeing results so far, perhaps you could rule out the contact allergy by thoroughly rinsing out his dog bed, and not allowing him to rest outside in the same areas. If that does not help...then try changing his diet. Give that at least 2 months time to see results...and that means NO other treats, etc except his prescription allergy food. One other thought...have your tried giving Benedryl twice daily to help with the itching? Most importantly, check in with your vet about what you are trying. If she or he disagrees with my suggestions...certainly follow their advice regarding your dog's health. Good luck! Jennie Hoffnagle Glenmoore, PA
Re: Umbilical hernia
Jackie, Good question! Umbilical hernias are extremely common in Berners, and most of the time it is something that never bothers the dog. (We would probably pay a great deal more attention to it if there weren't much bigger issues to worry about!) Here are the statistics from the BMDCA health survey, out of 1322 responses there were: 249 Umbilical hernias 1 strangulated 2 needed repair 28 repair not needed, done anyway 11 resolved no surgery Two of my 3 berners had hernias, one was small the other about the size of a pecan, neither ever had a problem with them, although I always checked them frequently. Pat Long (& Luther) Berwyn PA _ Join the worlds largest e-mail service with MSN Hotmail. http://www.hotmail.com
Re: Advice on Low Protein Diet for Burner
Recently I changed to Avo-Derm Adult Lamb & Rice kibble. It has min. 20% protein. The dogs LOVE it & even Tobin, who has been thee king of picky, chomps it right down. Usually he chews one or two kibbles at a time & takes forever to finish eating, but now, he eagerly awaits his bowl & gets right down to business even licking his bowl clean! The label says it's for dogs with sensitive stomachs. I'm going to contact Avo-Derm to find out what the difference is that makes it good for sensitive stomachs. It's available in feed stores & probably some pet stores. You could go on the web & find a store in your area. With tax (Calif), it's $32 & change for 40#. I've stayed away from foods that have to be delivered as it's difficult/impossible to get it when you travel for a length of time & have to change the brand unless you haul 100+ lbs with you. > Looking for suggestions for DRY kibble, please, that would be low (20% > or less) protein. Kathy Davis [EMAIL PROTECTED] Windraider Kennels California www.windraiderkennels.com Bernese Mtn Dogs - Int Am BIS Can CH Windraider's Black Oak v Bevs , HIT, CGC, TDI "Tobin" Windraider's Manjula v Bev's "Jul" Windraider's Seven Seas Briggand "Briggand" 6 mo Windraider's Black Oak Conspiracy "Brenna" 6 mo Flat Coated Retv - Int Am CH Twofold Samba Sam, CGC, TDI "Sam" (liver-DK imp) Pembroke W. Corgi - Annline's Extra Well Done "Miles" (FI imp) r/w 12 mo Labs & Eskie - Scout, Babe & Klondike
Re: Info to Include on Tags...
Right now, neither Monty nor Allegra is wearing tags... Monty has outgrown his first collar and his uncle Rocky's collar is the right size only at the smallest adjustment... it also is a slick nylon and becomes bigger with an easy tug. He'll grow into and possibly outgrow that one too, if he keeps growing at the current rate. They both wear the collars with tags whenever we go anyplace, however, even with the risk of Monty pulling out of his. As far as silent stalking of Dick's shoes, sox, hankies (even right from his back pocket!) he is NOT silent, even with no jangles. The moment he has something, he earns the continued use of his name Thunderpaws besides, sometimes he'll even stop and turn around to see if you are chasing him. Sometimes, he'll even bark to let you know he stole something. He is a tease!!! Allegra's collar is hanging on the hook with her leash... I'm not sure if dog tags are edible, but every time she's dressed, Monty wants to undress her... those tags are a very secure handle for him and she can't slip out of his grasp. Of course, it might be better to have her collar on any way, since if it's not there, he hangs on the flesh of her neck or her ears... she has the scabs to prove it on both sides of her neck. If there's a toy handy, I shove it between them, they both grab for it and that's the tug of war instead of tormenting Aunty Allegra. Even hanging on her neck fur, her tail is usually wagging. We'll do up some "proper tags" as soon as Monty begins to behave himself a little better. P.S. both are microchipped, and our vet has a record of the number, too. Pamela and Dick with Allegra, (the Beautiful!) and Monty (the mischievous pup) Regarding tag collar pouches, I had never heard of them before and immediately thought "GREAT IDEA!!"then I remembered how useful that tag jangling has been for me
Re: Puppies
Allegra and I are very proud of your new babies... their daddy is my daddy, too, so I know how great they are. After all, I'm a half brother to them "whuff" to you guys... Love, from big brother Monty Pamela and Dick with Allegra, (the Beautiful!) and Monty (the mischievous pup) - Original Message - From: "Ray & Pat Burgett" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Karen DeMars" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Cc: "Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Saturday, October 12, 2002 8:01 PM Subject: Puppies > Hi All > > We have five boys and two girls, good weight from 1 lb 1oz to 1 lb 6 oz. > All Show Prospects. :- > > All doing great and so is MOM. All done in under five hours. > > Ray & Pat Burgett Eaglecap Bernese > Talee,Lexi,Boomer,Bell & Max > www.goodbernerfood.com > www.users.eoni.com/~eaglecap > Draminski Ovulation Detector Rep >
Re: Digger
Make him a 'sand box' which is his digging area. By having loose soil there, you can encourage him to start. Also, bury toys and bones and things like that and show him to find them. Whenever you are out with him, praise wildly for digging in his spot. If he digs elsewhere, give a firm, "NO, go to your place!" and then escort him over, and play in the dirt with him, digging yourself and shouting and getting very silly so he knows this is the *best* place to dig. Eileen Morgan The Mare's Nest http://www.enter.net/~edlehman --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.393 / Virus Database: 223 - Release Date: 9/30/2002
Re: Canine Acne
>She said it was very common in puppies this age since their hormones are changing Had similar thing with Sim around this age, not the acne round the butt area but he developed itchy patches back of the neck. Used Tee Tree Oil and cleared up very quickly but also made sure he had extra walks in the woods to burn off those excess hormones! All love, Jean, Sunny, Simmy, Barney and the Gang X http://www.angelfire.com/anime3/longlease/index.htm
Dog Tag Silencers
I have seen where one can purchase the rubber silencers for dog tags (similar to the one used in the military). -Eileen
Fwd: Re: Euoropean/ American breeders
>Date: Mon, 14 Oct 2002 14:22:26 -0600 >To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] >From: T Thompson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Subject: Fwd: Re: Euoropean/ American breeders > > >>Date: Mon, 14 Oct 2002 13:47:23 -0600 >>To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] >>From: T Thompson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >>Subject: Re: Euoropean/ American breeders >> >>Hi Terry,Cathy, and all: >> >> Congratulations! I am sure you will enjoy your new puppy! It >> is wonderful to hear about your communications with the puppy's >> breeder. I hope that you and she will be able to share information >> about your girl and the breed during the years to come. >> >> You raised some interesting points in your post: >> >> Regarding your puppy's breeder, you wrote: "Most impressive is >> her communication skills with potential owners and >>>the method she raises her pups. The method of her breeding and her >>>ability to interact with potential >>>buyers of this wonderful breed should be formulated in writing for every >>>breeder in this state to follow, perhaps the country." >> >> **It would be helpful if you could be more specific about your >> interactions with her and the information that you'd like to see >> 'formulated in writing" for other breeders to follow. >> >> You wrote: "While I am sure American breeders feel they have a >> superior sense of a berner's health >>>issues than their European counterparts I am sure a sharing of >>>information between the breeders beyond the 'big pond' would extend the >>>life of all berners, in the long run. I believe berner advocates in >>>America and Europe can share information >>>and dogs for healthy breeding versus the american breeder's view that >>>European breeders close their eyes to healthy breeding practices." >> >> >> **Although I do not know who you talked to before you contacted >> your puppy's breeder, I can tell you that I am one of many American >> breeders who is very interested in working with breeders from Europe and >> other parts of the world. In fact, I just returned from the Second >> International Symposium for breed health which was held in >> Switzerland. Over a hundred breeders, representing Bernese clubs from >> all over the world gathered to share information about the health of the >> breed, and what can be done to improve it. The next day, at the Swiss >> Club's annual breed show, there were many additional American breeders >> who had traveled to Switzerland to attend the show and learn about the >> dogs there. >> >>>I have experienced, witnessed and heard the biases from the berner >>>breeders in person and in this list. If the Illinois breeding community >>>in any way represents the berner breeding community at large I feel >>>there is a gaping hole being driven by breeders who talk a good game. >> >> **I'm sorry that your experience was so negative. >> >>>Unfortunately the Eastern Europe profiteers have been very successful >>>setting up shop in our communities to easily exploit berner pups with >>>simple newspaper ads. Take it from someone who was nearly lured in by >>>the face of a pretty little berner girl pup. If it can happen to me it >>>can happen to anyone who is impressed with the breed. >>>My recommendation: breeders wake up and smell reality. Berner survival >>>means cooperating, learning, sharing information within the global >>>community. >> >> **Well, I think that we've got a good start. If you would like >> more information about the cooperating, learning, and sharing of >> information that occurred during the Symposium, please let me know. >> >> terry thompson >> missoula, montana
Re: Dog Tag Silencers
I wonder if you could use the color coded things they put on keys? Might be cheaper too! Dawn and Manson - Original Message - From: "Eileen Chun" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Berner-l" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Monday, October 14, 2002 4:08 PM Subject: Dog Tag Silencers > I have seen where one can purchase the rubber silencers for dog tags > (similar to the one used in the military). > > -Eileen >
Re: BERNER-L digest 4067
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Re: Umbilical Hernias
>Just looking for some info on Umbilical hernia's ?? Is this common with Berners ? What exactly is it ? Does it hurt the pup/dog ?Should they be removed ? First, I don't think is more common with Bernese than other dogs but it can happen and, sure this may well provoke other posts here but, seems to me more common in dogs birthed by C-Section. My only experience here has been with my Sunny Girl! Knew she had hernia when we collected her as pup, no problem, could cuddle her and push back! When she was spayed at six months was corrected, sort of standard procedure! Not unusual! Except my Sunny Girl was the Wriggliest Giggliest Girl ever! Year later my girl hot footed down to the gate when visitors arrived and YELPED! Hernia was back and this time was painful! This time was corrected and permanent stitches put in! Sunny is now eight and has had no further problems! So yes, is something fairly common to deal with, can be corrected early but beware if you have wriggly, giggly pup! All love, Jean, Sunny, Simmy, Barney and the Gang X http://www.angelfire.com/anime3/longlease/index.htm
Re: Travels...........
Michaela, I am really enjoying the virtual trip to the France and Switzerland. I got a chuckle out of the comment in the first part "to be continued" and the dogs learning to bark in Italian. Eager for more. Dino and the Blackcoral Berner Bunch remembering Kru, Cozy, Sergio and Diver Caldwell ID [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.geocities.com/blackcoralberner/
Re: Dog Tag Silencers
Eileen wrote: >I have seen where one can purchase the rubber silencers for dog tags >(similar to the one used in the military). Cheaper yet, I use transparent tape to tape the rabies license & id tag back to back so they can easily be read. There's no noise that way. We've got 9 dogs...that's a LOT of dog tag noise!!!---in addition to the big voiced barking!!! Kathy Davis [EMAIL PROTECTED] Windraider Kennels California www.windraiderkennels.com Bernese Mtn Dogs - Int Am BIS Can CH Windraider's Black Oak v Bevs , HIT, CGC, TDI "Tobin" Windraider's Manjula v Bev's "Jul" Windraider's Seven Seas Briggand "Briggand" 6 mo Windraider's Black Oak Conspiracy "Brenna" 6 mo Flat Coated Retv - Int Am CH Twofold Samba Sam, CGC, TDI "Sam" (liver-DK imp) Pembroke W. Corgi - Annline's Extra Well Done "Miles" (FI imp) r/w 12 mo Labs & Eskie - Scout, Babe & Klondike
Re: Umbilical Hernias
Both Caolan and Neala had Umbilical Hernias. Caolan's was big, never caused trouble, but had it removed when he was neutered. Neala's was smaller than Caolan's but hers grew hart suddenly. Of course found out on a Saturday morning. Brought her in and an operation was scheduled for Monday. Not sure what all is in this area, but by her things were bruised and the operation was done just in time. I know there was more than fat tissue involved. It is fairly common to have hernia's, even if the mom does not chew the umbilical cord. Wouldn't panic, but please check it daily to make sure all is well. Sylvia Katvala with Neala (I like laying on my back) Tucson, AZ
Re: Digger
>My 8 month old male has started a terrible habit of digging! Oh, join the Club! >Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. My 13 year old bitch, Tinka, would still dig down 3' hole and uproot shrubs to find a cool comfortable spot But I got her as six/seven year old adoptee! And never got her out of the habit until she was too old to dig. My pups have since gone on to dig their dens, usually have settled into a favourite place where you can fill in the rest of the holes and they settle on the one. At the moment in my garden I have three holes! Two minor ones that I think I can now fill in! One major hole under some shrubs and Sim even now will dump the toys in there. It is an instinct for building that den. With training and knowing their own special place hopefuly you can train out this habit! But don't forget the cool place! My Sam, no longer dug up the lawn but whenever we had bonfire would come and dig a wee hole that exactly fitted his butt! And sat and watched the fun! Jean, Sunny, Simmy, Barney and the Gang X http://www.angelfire.com/anime3/longlease/index.htm
Re: Dog Tag Silencers
I can't see why not. The only issue would be if the i.d tag is different shape other than being round or oversize. I know for the rabies tag I get from the vet, it comes in only dog or cat shapes. Eileen nbmws6 wrote: > > I wonder if you could use the color coded things they put on keys? Might be > cheaper too! > Dawn and Manson > - Original Message - > From: "Eileen Chun" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: "Berner-l" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Sent: Monday, October 14, 2002 4:08 PM > Subject: Dog Tag Silencers > > > I have seen where one can purchase the rubber silencers for dog tags > > (similar to the one used in the military). > > > > -Eileen > >
Arthritis, Rimadyl, Confusion, Dread
Bodhi is over 10 years old now. He had a "stroke-like event" 20 months ago that left him with some pretty serious movement deficit in his hindquarters. That condition is stable and he's adapted admirably, although he is no longer a candidate for ski touring. He's also got arthritis in his elbows. They are just about fused solid. He's bright and cheerful, showing no signs of losing his interest in the world, but he's slowing down a lot. Stairs have been out for 6 months or more. Recently the arthritis has gotten bad enough that even a carpeted ramp has become a challenge. I've gotten used to his small sounds of pain when he gets up, but hearing them when he tries to come up the ramp or raise his front legs high enough to get through the dog doors is enough to drive me to search for more options. He is on a glucosamine-chondroitin supplement. He also gets cosequin. He's on a low bulk feed and his weight is under control (slight padding over ribs, but getting a bit bony). For the last few months the vet has been suggesting we consider Rimadyl. She's given me a lot of information on the drug and suggested sources for information on its pluses and minuses. I have followed up and gathered a great deal of information from a variety of sources. There seems to be anecdotal evidence of some breeds being more susceptible to the bad side effects of Rimadyl, so I want to check in here to see if there's any information that's BMD-specific. Last week Bodhi was at the vet and we did a blood panel. His lever enzymes are at 170, up from 140 9 months ago. The vet says that she starts to believe she's seeing a clear indication of a problem when it hits 200, twice the normal level. I am considering the following: 1) Put him on 100 mg twice a day with food. 2) Continue for two weeks under close observation for all the side effects of Rimadyl. Stop immediately and get another blood panel if anything suspicious occurs. 3) If he shows clear improvement at the end of two weeks and he's tolerating the drug well then continue, else try something else. 4) If continuing, try reducing dosage and combining with cosequin to see what minimum dosage provides adequate relief. Get regular blood work to keep an eye on liver enzyme levels (vet will do a "short panel" to just check the liver issues for reduced cost). So, questions: 1) Is a two week trial long enough? 2) Opinions on likelihood of damage in a two week trial? How bad? Reversible? 3) If it seems to be working out, how often should blood work be repeated? Once a month? More often? Less OK? I know that few here are vets, but I believe many of you as caring for our three-color friends as deeply as I do, so I thought I'd ask here, too. Richard, Bodhi (10+ years) & Jack (8+, but still thinks he's a puppy)
Snoring
Ok, another question from the worrywort... (The health issues in the breed have made me paranoid about any changes that I notice in my dogs!) I have noticed in the past three to four weeks that Lily has started snoring, sometimes very loudly. She never snored before. I have also noticed that one of her nostrils is now a little runny -- not with any mucous, just with what looks like water. Under the nostril, there is frequently a little bit of moisture that is absent on the other side. Is it possible that these two oddities could be related to her allergies? I've always been told canine allergies manifest themselves in non-hayfever type ways, but it certainly is possible that it's all related. She's a healthy, happy, active, three year old spayed Berner girl. There have been no other changes that I have noticed. Any ideas what could've caused this new little quirks? Julia Lily & Max Astoria, OR
how much is that dog in the window
http://www.marketplace.org/features/doggie_in_the_window/ i heard part of this on the way home. check it out. there was a good clip on pet insurance as well. andrea, woofit and chi shavertown, pa http://www.brin.org/Woofit_and_Chi/
Re: DIgger
One option I found that helped with indiscriminate digging is make a "digging hole" somewhere where the dogs are allowed to dig this enclosure is fenced in with landscape timbers filled with part regular dirt and play sand. The spot can be raked once twice a week during hot months sprinkled with water so makes it even a cooler spot for the dogs. If no natural shading available put up some Shade cloth (bought at bigger hardware stores i.e. Home Depot or Lowes) About the little hole for their butts my Rosie would do that, it always made me laugh watching her scratch out a specila spot and them plop her butt down in it, laying there so cute with front paws crossed. Pat Tackett Texas
Warning about Tea Tree Oil
Posted in plain text for Kathy: In a recent posting about canine acne it was suggested pure tea tree oil be used. A word of caution, there are different types (strength) of tea tree oil and on some animals and humans with sensitive skin the pure oil may "burn". Also if the dog licks the oil they may become very ill. Just this weekend our vet passed along the following warning. One of her clients has three dogs on which tea tree oil had been used. The next morning two of the dogs were down and the third very weak. So with anything use caution. On a side note for hot spots a tea made with rosemary works overnight and is simple to make. Simply boil rosemary (fresh or dried) at approximately 1 to 3 ratio in water for three minutes, strain and let water cool. Apply the wash at the first sign of a hot spot. This was given to me by a Wheaton breeder. When I suggested this to a person, who called after their vet was closed, for their Berner it worked over night. I have a great book called All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets by Mary L. Wulff-Tilford and Gregory L. Tilford, ISBN 1-889540-46-3. I used this book to check out contraindications. As with tea tree oil, rosemary essential oil should be diluted as it is strong and can cause immediate irritation. Remember what works and is safe as a tea may not be as an oil. Kathy
The Boob Toss, Chair Climbing, Assorted Oddness
I *knew* you couldn't resist THAT header. =8-0 It is a tough thing, being the most valuable resource in the house. For one thing, you walk through the door after 10 minutes checking a horse and four dogs throw themselves on you as if it had been *months* since you were last there. Even if you did have to step over two of them and grab the Newf by the legs and drag her out of the way of the door. Another thing, you can't do *anything* without dogs trying to accompany you. Everyone knows where you go because you have a little troop after you. Where's Ei? Oh, the dogs are lined up outside the bathroom. Must be in there. So, I sit down to check my email and write up an assignment for the little, er, angels up at the U. Mic the Berner Boy has perfected the best way to distract me from my typing: take one insistent Berner muzzle, insert against rib cage, press hard against ribs and jerk nose upwards. I have named this technique The Boob Toss. I should think the reasons are obvious as well as *OUCHIE*!! So, I shove Mic under the desk. Now he can paw my knees and that is the end of the damage. He's whacking away on my shin with one paw, and Nessie the Newfie is spitting globs of Berner fluff and Pyr hair on my elbow. At this point, Cassie the Pyr wants some attention, and Mic has the market on the front by virtue of his position in the cave beneath the desk. On my right is a long desk with drawers in the way, and the Newfie is hogging up the right side. The solution, if you are an athletic 107 lbs Pyr, is clear: you climb the back of mama's chair, drape over her shoulders, and slide down into her lap. I need a real life. Really. Eileen Morgan The Mare's Nest http://www.enter.net/~edlehman --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.393 / Virus Database: 223 - Release Date: 9/30/2002
Lexi's 1YO!
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Seeking advice/recommendations for older Berner problem
My old boy, Magic, who is coming up on 10 yrs old is experiencing very dry coat, losing hair in small tufts and has developed a dandruff problem. I have always used Zodiac flea and tick shampoo on him with good success. It does contain lanolin. However, I realizes that as we all get older (dogs included!!) our skins change requiring less harsh treatments but am not sure what kind of shampoo to switch to and how to control the dandruff problem. I brush and brush and I think I could brush till the cows come home and STILL get hair off Magic. He has alot of coat. I also use a rake to get the undercoat out. Any suggestions or helpful hints out there?? Thanks for your help! Sheila Jones and the berner boys, Magic & PJ
socialization
One of the many things that I do in ongoing socialization of pup/dog is to take them to my local (Ford) dealer just for a visit. When I was negotiating the lease of my present van, Moses sat in the (Ford) office with me. This way, they can hear different noises (at a distance, of course and on leash, of course) and meet a bunch of fellows who are eager to play with them! Lisa Allen _ Send and receive Hotmail on your mobile device: http://mobile.msn.com
Canine Acne
Julene, Just a thought, but when we first got Holly at 4 mo of age, she was "antsy" at night,...I honestly thought there might have been spiders in the carpet or something else biting her, she was so jumpy. Our vet thought she had juvenile acne because of sores that sound similar to what you see,...on her butt and between her rear legs. Cream didn't help. Turned out a friend suggested we check her earflaps,see if they were crusted around the edges,..and they were! Our vet was doubtful about our suggested diagnosis when we called back, but on skin scraping got a mange mite! She had scarcoptic mange and in fact, brought it with her from the breeder, as we were told other pups there were treated for it, when we called to inquire! It is contagious so you never know! Something to consider if things don't clear up with the treatment you've been advised to try. Patti (in Brockville with Holly the new "couch potato girl", Buddy the Aussie (only my front legs, see mom?) and Frosty the crazy ice storm cat (If I wrap my body around the dogs head does it count???)
Re: [BMDCAmembers] Re:PRA diagnosis
In a message dated 10/14/2002 6:47:50 PM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: << This disease does not take testing to diagnose, not really that hard to recognize a blind dog. >> Hard to believe, but when a dog goes blind slowly as many do with PRA, it can be VERY hard to recognize that they are blind. They become so good at maneuvering with sound and scent, that people would never know they can't see. We had a Sammy male that was diagnosed with PRA at 6 1/2 yrs during his annual CERF exam, went to live with my daughter in the North Woods of Wisconsin, ran those woods for the next 4 years of his life and never hit a tree, fell in the river or any other symptoms of blindness. It's amazing how they can sometimes hid afflictions. Anne Copeland, Flash,TDI/CGC (Berner, 8 yrs.) & Gypsy TDI/CGC(Rescue Cavalier,1 1/2 yr.) NE ILL [EMAIL PROTECTED] BMDCSEW Vice President Ty's memorial page: http://www.geocities.com/workingyorkie/ty.html Gypsy's page:http://hometown.aol.com/annes4/Gypsy.html
Re: PRA diagnosis
Sorry all. Replied to the wrong list. Another Sr. moment! Anne Copeland, Flash,TDI/CGC (Berner, 8 yrs.) & Gypsy TDI/CGC(Rescue Cavalier,1 1/2 yr.) NE ILL [EMAIL PROTECTED] BMDCSEW Vice President Ty's memorial page: http://www.geocities.com/workingyorkie/ty.html Gypsy's page:http://hometown.aol.com/annes4/Gypsy.html
Re: BERNER-L digest 4068
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introducing new pup
Hi there, 1. I have a 5 year old dominant neutered male rottie at present. We want to bring home a bernese pup very soon! He is excellent with non dominant dogs and puppies. Our concern is would he accept it when the new addition grows bigger than him and is not neutered . We are hoping to show our new male pup depending on how he turns out. Is there a good way of insuring a peaceful household? 2. Do Bernese brought up with territorial dogs become like there surrogate brothers or do they just stand back and watch? 3. Would it be a better choice for us to get a female or would we have the same outcome? Any advice or websites regarding these questions would be greatly appreciated! Audrey McAree B.C. [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: introducing new pup
- Original Message - From: "amcaree" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Hi there, > 1. I have a 5 year old dominant neutered male rottie at present. We want > to bring home a bernese pup very soon! He is excellent with non dominant > dogs and puppies. Our concern is would he accept it when the new addition > grows bigger than him and is not neutered . We are hoping to show our new > male pup depending on how he turns out. Is there a good way of insuring a > peaceful household? If you want the *best* chance at having a pair of dogs which do not have to be separated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, get a bitch, NOT a male. Even quite aggressive dogs will usually accept an opposite sex companion. > 2. Do Bernese brought up with territorial dogs become like there surrogate > brothers or do they just stand back and watch? My Berner is territory protective verging on territory aggressive. He is also quite dominant and will not co-exist with another male on his property. He is ok with our girls and also with female flaters. We gave up fostering male dogs, even young ones, since he was too upset and aggressive about it. His personality is not completely typical of Berners, but is a type which shows up regularly in Berners. > 3. Would it be a better choice for us to get a female or would we have the > same outcome? Male-female pairs work out even in very dog aggressive breeds, usually. For instance, when I lived with an Akita breeder (used for pit fighting, hunting, guarding, and war) the dogs came into the house in rotating dog-bitch pairs. Bitch-bitch and dog-dog did not work out well. In Pyrs, another breed I live with, dog aggression is often a fact of life (livestock guardians would be no good if they let stray dogs in with the flock!). While bitches sometimes are fine with other bitches, very few dog-dog households work out well. Dog-bitch pairs are strongly recommended by good breeders. Hope that helps! Eileen Morgan The Mare's Nest http://www.enter.net/~edlehman --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.393 / Virus Database: 223 - Release Date: 9/30/2002
Re: Book on Dog Loss
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Re:Book on Dog Loss
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Found Sheltie in Keansburg, N.J.
Hi, all...please crosspost as much as you can! Found at the intersection of Thompson Ave and Rte 36 in Keansburg/North Middletown NJ area Monday AM (Oct 14th). Sable and white, with black tipped ears, neutered male (The woman who has him isn't sure about testicles). He is well groomed, no collar, no tattoes, and not sure about microchipping. We all know how easy it is for these guys to slip collars...He's a friendly man, ran right into the woman's car when she opened her door for him. Is getting along with the greyhound... I left a message for Aneita Frey of NJ SSR... Please respond to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Let's get this boy home! {--*==_==*--} THE TORTURE NEVER STOPS [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Fw: feminine ways
> Hi, > Oh is the new girl at our house is a smart one - the little flirt > > She is trying all sorts of ways to get Caspar to play with her - and she is almost there... > > She twirls her tail in his face, lays with her nose near his, jumps around > him like tigger from Winnie the Pooh, lays in the grass and tries to make > herself flat as the grass (that is funny), then pounces as he passes by her, > runs for his ball then circles wide, barks and yips as he takes off running, > > He just doesn't know what to do about her. He starts to play and chase, > then stops suddenly, lifts his tail picks up his ball and runs the other > way. If she doesn't follow, then he turns around and looks for her. I > think tonight she overwhelmed him, he finally picked up his ball and went > into the house. She looked at me then went running after him and they both > left me standing alone in the back yard with all the rest of the toys. Then > they barked at ME? because I was still outside > KIDS > WHATEVER DO YOU DO WITH THEM??? > > Never a dull moment... > > The neighbors and school and church and the dog club have all figured out > that Capsar did not grow long hair overnight - but that we have another > dog > > Yes, I like long hair > Yes, I know she has big feet (so did the person asking) > Yes, I know she sheds - (so did the person asking) > Yes, I know she will eat alot (so did the person asking) > Yes, I know she looks like a Berner - SHE IS. > Yes, I know she looks like my other dog - HE would differ in opinion... > Yes, I know I should sweep every day -0 I'm saving it for a sweater... > Yes, I know that you're glad she lives at my house and not yours - (we are > glad you live at your house also) > > And we wonder why our dogs smile. > LeAnn Zogg > Pax and Paws >
Re: The Boob Toss, Chair Climbing, Assorted Oddness
OMG!! THAT WAS SOOO FUNNY!!! My dog does something very similar!!! She'll jab me with her nose .. all over, stomach, rib cage .. and the boob toss as well!! ROTFL Yes it does hurt!! It reminds me of a calf nursing ... they do that head jab thing ... LIKE YOU KNOW THAT DOESN'T FEEL GOOD!! It's a blessing human babies don't do it!!! Someone else told me once, that if you have a dog that pokes you with it's nose that it's a sign of being smart! True or not, I don't care, I know my little girl is super smart!!! :-D ---Original Message--- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Monday, October 14, 2002 7:50:26 PM To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List Subject: The Boob Toss, Chair Climbing, Assorted Oddness I *knew* you couldn't resist THAT header. =8-0 It is a tough thing, being the most valuable resource in the house. For one thing, you walk through the door after 10 minutes checking a horse and four dogs throw themselves on you as if it had been *months* since you were last there. Even if you did have to step over two of them and grab the Newf by the legs and drag her out of the way of the door. Another thing, you can't do *anything* without dogs trying to accompany you. Everyone knows where you go because you have a little troop after you. Where's Ei? Oh, the dogs are lined up outside the bathroom. Must be in there. So, I sit down to check my email and write up an assignment for the little, er, angels up at the U. Mic the Berner Boy has perfected the best way to distract me from my typing: take one insistent Berner muzzle, insert against rib cage, press hard against ribs and jerk nose upwards. I have named this technique The Boob Toss. I should think the reasons are obvious as well as *OUCHIE*!! So, I shove Mic under the desk. Now he can paw my knees and that is the end of the damage. He's whacking away on my shin with one paw, and Nessie the Newfie is spitting globs of Berner fluff and Pyr hair on my elbow. At this point, Cassie the Pyr wants some attention, and Mic has the market on the front by virtue of his position in the cave beneath the desk. On my right is a long desk with drawers in the way, and the Newfie is hogging up the right side. The solution, if you are an athletic 107 lbs Pyr, is clear: you climb the back of mama's chair, drape over her shoulders, and slide down into her lap. I need a real life. Really. Eileen Morgan The Mare's Nest http://www.enter.net/~edlehman --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.393 / Virus Database: 223 - Release Date: 9/30/2002 .
Re: Digging
Hi Cindy, My Chance went through the digging phase at about 9 mos old. We lived in a rental house at the time, so building him his own area to dig was not really an option. We resorted to another method to end the digging. When I would scoop the yard, I would put some in each hole that Chance dug. Initially, the digging increased in various parts of the yard, but after a little while he figured out that every hole magically had poop in it. This method does require some persistance and consistancy from you in filling the holes as soon as their dug. I used to walk the yard each day to check on old holes and fill new ones. After a couple of months, Chance's hole digging greatly decreased and soon stopped all together. We have since bought our own house and every once in a while I'll see the beginning of a hole, but I add the necessary poop and that squashes any desire in Chance to continue digging. Hope this idea helps. :o) Cheers, Andrea Stefanac & Chance CD NDD CGC TT Richmond, VA