Hootie is the newest member of our family. He is a 6 year old Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) who was the companion of my sister who is suffering from Alzheimer's and has had to be placed into Care.
Hootie (Hoot and he is one) is fitting in very well around here except for one dog who keeps wondering when Hootie will be going home. Fortunately, all the dogs are easy-going and we have minimal squabbles.
He came to us very overweight and has lost 10 lbs already. He's quite active but the excessive weight did do some joint damage. Hopefully, that will improve as with the weight loss, he has become more active.
I managed to get his toenails down to normal length and scaled his teeth so now he has a great smile.
Hootie has a very dense coat and was so matted that my niece had a groomer come in and shave him. He looks like a little lion. The hair is starting to grow back now.
So, here's a reminder. A fat dog is not a healthy dog. Keep that weight down. Use low calorie treats, exercise and control the food dish. My dogs think green beans are a fun treat. Also, keep those nails trimmed or have your vet or a groomer do it. When the nails start to curl under it causes stress on the feet and toes and your dog will pay for that down the road. Finally, dental health is just as important to dogs as it is to people. Keep the teeth clean and don't let the tartar build-up get out of hand.
Excellent points! I like to spoil my pup with breakfast out every few weeks.. her favorite waitress spoils her. But I make sure to cut back on the kibble before and after her meals out and get her out to the creek more often.
ReplyDeleteAwwww, Hootie is soooooo cute! And great tips on the dog care too!
ReplyDeleteGreat post! Same for cats too? Ill keep an eye on mine's weight haha :) Hootie is a great name and he is so cute.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your sister :( Hootie is adorable though! Thanks for the great dog tips, I plan on getting one (probably within a year?)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips! Hootie is adorable!
ReplyDeleteHe really is cute! So furry and cuddly :) Our little Shih Tzu is so skinny no matter what he eats, I guess he is healthy but we just leave food for him all the time and he never does overeat, though his has does get matted plenty! He was our baby before we had babies! :)
ReplyDeletesounds like hootie is in great hands! he is lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous dog, and he sounds like a full on life character. :) Wonderful to meet him, and so good that you took him in too.
ReplyDeleteHootie is adorable!! :-)
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