Allegheny Veterinary Services -- Elkins, WV

Do you have a dog with a high prey drive? Many types of dog breeds such as hounds, pointers, terriers, etc. were specifically bred to follow their nose and that prey driven instinct. However, this behavior can make outdoor activities frustrating and challenging. Here are some tips to help channel that prey drive in your active canine so you can both enjoy each other’s company without the fear of off lead activities!
1. Don’t punish your pup for following his hunting desires. This will only make him resentful of your training and more likely to ignore your commands. In other words, punishment will make the behavior worse.
2. Allow your dog to partake in his hunting expeditions in a controlled environment. For example, in fenced in yard or large room encourage your dog to “hunt” for a fun dog toy or chewy treat. Make this activity upbeat and active with high energy and encouragement to stimulate that predatory instinct in your dog.
3. While you are playing exciting games with your dog like fetch, tug of war, or “hunting” for a dog toy, spontaneously ask your dog to sit or lay down. If he does, reward immediately with praise or a treat and resume the game. If not don’t worry and keep trying. This exercise teaches impulse control and is causing your dog to use their head during high stimulation. Eventually, your dog will be able to have the willpower to control their prey drive.

Check out the following link for more information and tips to control that prey drive in your dog. www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-channel-your-dogs-predatory-instincts-on-walks/ ... See MoreSee Less

Spring is finally here! Yet, with spring comes spring-cleaning. Keep you furry companions safe this season with these spring-cleaning safety tips.
• Keep all your cleaning products out of reach from your pets. Certain chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite found mainly in bleach, and ammonia, found in a variety of household cleaners, can be incredibly hazardous to your furry family members.
• For those of you hoping to accomplish some home remodeling, keep toxic products, such as paints, stains, mineral spirits, and other harmful chemicals off the floor and away from your pet’s presence.
• For many of us spring-cleaning doesn’t just involve our home, but also our lawn and garden. Keep hazardous fertilizes, insecticides, and herbicides stored out of your pet’s reach.

For more spring safety tips check out the source below provided by the ASPCA www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/springtime-safety-tips ... See MoreSee Less

At Allegheny Veterinary Services we provide advanced regenerative laser therapy, which is a painless light energy treatment that effectively reduces inflammation and pain in a pet who is experiencing infections, arthritis, wounds, and much more. Our state-of the-art Class IV laser also assists in surgical treatments and other chronic conditions.

Click on the link below to learn more about regenerative laser therapy and how we use it to help the patients we care for.

elkinsvet.com/regenerative-laser-therapy/ ... See MoreSee Less