Tomb Dogs.

The Shar Pei originated from China over 2000 years ago. The name Shar Pei translates to ‘Sand & Skin’ which is believed to be taken from their harsh coat and the fact they were originally used a utility, herding & guarding. They were also, at one point, known as ‘Tomb Dogs’ as the discovery of ancient tombs from thousands of years ago bear a striking resemblance They have also been known as the ‘Chinese Fighting Dog’, which is a misnomer of sorts. They are not a dog that will savagely seek out disputes, though will retaliate should they be aggrevated.

The 1947 the Shar Pei became an endangered breed and, in 1978, was listed in the Guinness’ Book of Records as the world’s rarest dog. This was due to the fact China became a communist country and a tax was brought in that made the keeping of dogs a luxury and something that wasn’t available to the common folk. Eventually the tax was increased again and breeding of dogs was banned.

The first registered Shar Pei was brought into Australia in 1981 with the first little not being born here until 1985. They are a very intelligent dog who needs little training, picking up everything very quickly. With strangers they can be somewhat snobbish and reserved but are extremely loyal and devoted to their family. They are very much a one man dog, within their family they will be very loving with everyone but with always have one that they will choose to bond with. They are a very independent, alert and dignified breed with a calm and confident stature. They require a good amount of exercise and a lot of socialization, with other pets and humans, from a young age. Shar Peis can be aggressive with other dogs of similar personalities, sex and temperaments if not socialized correctly. When correctly raised with other pets and children they are generally good.

Today they are a good pet for families and singles that want that loyal companion. They live well in an open country life and comfortably in a suburban neighborhood. Despite their many distinct rolls, grooming is not a high requirement for them. Their short coat is easy to maintain with no brushing required at all though their ears need a little attention due to lack of air circulation. They are a dog that requires a lot more time spent with them and interaction over grooming.

Bessy and Leana never pass up a chance for a glamour shot!



For more great information on the Shar Pei,

http://www.pedigree.com.au/breeds/default.asp?bt=2&p=s&pp=

Your dog.

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more then he loves himself.

-'Josh Billings'

Gentle man, Banjo enjoying his own private cabin.

Toxic Plants.

Though a pretty and popular flower, the Daffodil is highly toxic and dangerous to our pooches. All parts of the plant are dangerous, especially the bulb - with digestion sometimes resulting in death.

Daffodil's contain lycorine, which is the poisonous compound for our dogs. Crystals are found in the outer if the bulb and this is what can cause severe tissue irritation. Once swallowed, it can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea & possibly respiratory issues. If unnoticed, the result can be severe. If your dog shows any signs that concern you, contact your vet immediately.

http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/daffodil/

Gemma & Frodo Update.

We would like to introduce our old friend, Rusty to you.

Rusty is an old man now and used to be come and visit us when his owner's went on holiday. Unfortunately, Rusty was no longer able to stay with his family so he came to live with us.

Rusty loves to spend his days relaxing in our 'Special Needs Suites' with our geriatric guests. He especially loves it when his girlfriend, Tammy comes to stay with us!

Rusty, keeping watch on everything.

Cuddles on the couch with Tammy.

Why does my dog bark ... ALL THE TIME?!

Excessive barking can be quite an issue. Likes humans, all dogs are different and have their own personalities. Because of the this, there is no exact answer for why your dog continually barks. It could be due to boredom, distress, excitement, territorial reasons, fear or anxiety.
If your finding this is an issue for you it's time to begin training. Positive reinforcement is the best way to do this, encouraging and rewarding the good behaviour and ignoring and not acknowledging the bad behaviour.

A great start is to find your local animal behaviourist, your local vet usually can recommended you one.

A behaviourist is trained in reading dogs and can help find the under laying issue that is causing your dog to bark. Once you have identified what triggers your dog you can then take the necessary steps forward to training.

Your behaviourist will be able to teach you correct ways of positive reinforcement and always avioding negative reinforment, as this can often exacerbate.  
We are lucky enough at Dogs Country Club to have our own K9 behaviourist working with us. Sam is great at one on one training and is availble outside of work hours. For more information on Sam's services contact Dogs Country Club on 03) 5971 1127.

Taj, enjoying some afternoon sun.

For some great advice and training tips visit;

http://kb.rspca.org.au/My-dog-is-barking-excessively-what-can-I-do_375.html

Come and have a look!

Have you had tour of Dogs Country & Kennel Resort yet?

We offer guided tours all year round, showing you the entire property.

Please contact us on 5971 - 1127 or,

visit http://www.dogscountryclubandkennelresort.com.au/ for tour times.

Leon, enjoying the sun!



Frodo & Gemma.

Hello everyone!

We've been lucky enough to get a few days worth of sunshine! Not only have we been enjoying every second of it but all of guests are loving a run in the paddocks or a nice snooze in the afternoon.

Check out some of our photos on our facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dogs-Country-Club-Kennel-Resort/210046109036673

We're getting a lot better with new technology and updating as many pictures as we can, so go ahead and like us and you may see your pooch pop up during their holiday too!

Gemma & Frodo.

A Scotland Original..

As one of the orignal breeds to come out of Scotland, the Cairn Terrier is a tough and strong little machine. They were given the name Cairn Terrier sometime in 1910 due to their ability to claw through piles of rocks (cairns), prior to this they were known as the Shorthaired or Prick Eared Skye Terrier.

For a small dog, the Cairn Terrier requires a high level of exercise in order to build and trim their muscle tone. They are extremley friendly dogs that socialise great with humans and dogs. They have been known to be called 'the best little pal in the world.' They are very loyal, loving and intelligent and will give back what you put into them, plus another 100% more! Although they are gentle and do not look for trouble, they will defend their family and territory with great courage and strength.

Their coat is double layered so it is recommended that their top coat be stripped during summer, in order to keep it healthy.

They have a great little personality in them and that little mischievious glint in their eye will remind why you love them!

The delightful Hugo never says no to a belly rub!

http://www.pedigree.com.au/breeds/



Buying Happiness.

'Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot about puppies.'

-Gene Hill.

The lovely Juno with her favourite toy.



Toxic Plants.

Also known as the Sweet Williams, the flower Carnation can upset our pooches stomaches.

Although it's not the worst in the bunch (excuse the pun) and it is still unknown as to what actually doesn't agree with our K9's, the Carnation is quite a popular flower and used in a lot of floral arrangments. For this reason, it needs to be kept in mind that if digested, can cause issues for our dogs. Mild dermititis and gastrointestinal signs are symptoms that can show through. 

For more plants and flowers to keep an eye out for, visit;

http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants?plant_toxicity=toxic-to-dogs&page=4

Gemma & Frodo Update.

Hello.

As always, we are still working very hard. We've almost worked out exactly where to sit to get the most amount of sun throughout the day!

We've also been enjoying a lot of attention from the trades workers that have been coming through. The new building, 'Luxury Paws Suites' is currently being built and we are enjoying all the benefits!

We hear that Mum & Dad (Cory & Paul) are going all out with these rooms! They'll all have T.V's, couches plus heating and cooling, it'll be just like your lounge room at home!

We can't wait for them to be finished, it's only a few months away now! I'm sure they'll let us test the rooms out first - right?



Raining Cats & Dogs.

With the winter weather well and truley settling in, cold and flu season has too! Just like us, Dogs can get the flu - 'Canine Cough.' Although vaccinated against it they can still contract the airbourne virus if they come in contact with any other dog that has Canine Cough. We have created a great fact sheet with some excellent advice and information on Canine Cough and the simple treatment of it to keep your furry friend happy this winter.

http://www.dogscountryclubandkennelresort.com.au/Downloads.php

You think dog's can't count?

"If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then giving Fido only two of them."

-Phil Pastoret

Good luck hiding the biscuits from Buddy!

Ralphie to the rescue!

This is Ralphie, he was lucky enough to survive to NZ earthquake. He was taken in by a family who unfourtunatly weren't equipped to adopt him. He was then taken in by a rescue group, together they would do great things.

Although Ralphie was quite scared, he set off with his rescuers to help other.

You wouldn't expect anyone to survive this....

 But this lucky lady did....

Frightened, but safe, she joined the team!

And got herself a new best friend. 

Together they set off....

Two more? Why not?

Who said dogs and cats can't be friends?

Safe and together, it's amazing the way the animal world can work.

6 pets that never knew each other, suddenly the best of friends.

German Schnauze?



An ancient breed, the Schnauzer originated in German, originally thought to be a rough haired Pinscher up until the 19th century. Their name comes from the German word, 'Schnauze' meaning muzzle. They were given this name from there sticking shaggy muzzle. The Schnauzer's were used throughout Germany as sheepdogs, originally only as standard dogs but over time has developed down to Miniature and up to Giant. Some believe the Giant Schnauzer was the result of crossbreeding the Standard Schnauzer, Great Dane and Belgian Cattle Dog - though this is a theory.

These days the Schnauzer has been referred to as 'the dog with a human brain' due to their high intelligence and inquisitive and alert nature. They are very easily trained though along with this intelligence comes quick boredom, so they do need a number of activities to keep them from destructive behavior. Exercise is enjoyable, but like anything, they will move on from it quite quickly once bored. Their coat is easy to maintain, usually clipped regularly, as it is quite hard and wiry. They are good with children and a popular family pet, they're wary of strangers and make for a great guard dog. They do require a large area of their own, more to keep their mind active as a pose to physical exercise.

Micci, a very photogenic Mini Schnauzer at Dogs Country Club.

More on the Schanuzer?

http://www.pedigree.com.au/breeds/

We all know that feeling!

My window's aren't dirty - that's my dog's nose art!

Toxic Plants.

A very pretty and popular plant, Bird Of Paradise, sadly is not so much the case for our pets.

It is believed the Hydrocyanic acid within the plants pods are the toxic compound.

Symptoms from digesting these can include mouth and throat irritation, vomiting, nausea, drowsiness and diarrhoea.

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.gardenguides.com/128291-bird-paradise-plant-poisonous-dogs.html#ixzz1z9qM8wdV



Gemma & Frodo Update.

Hello, we're Gemma and Frodo - the real bosses around here.

We have lived with Paul and Cory for a few years now, they rescued us and gave us a loving home.

We work extremely hard around here, sleeping in the sun all day and greeting guests isn't easy work you see!

As the ones in charge, it's only right to let you know what's going on at Dogs Country Club as it happens.

It can be a little cold at the moment so our coats are keeping us nice and warm and being school holidays we have lots of new and regular friends/guests coming to stay.

It's about the right time for the food trolley to coming around our way now, don't want to miss out on anything.

Gemma & Frodo.

But we love chocolate...

It's quite well known that Chocolate is extremely harmful to our dogs but why?

Theobromine is the answer! Theobromine is a compound found within cocoa which is used to make chocolate. It is toxic to not only dogs but cats and other pets also. The amount of Theobromine in chocolate does vary between the types of chocolate, with dark chocolate and baking chocolate having a higher level then milk chocolate. The amount that a pet digests obviously results in how much they are affect, though left un noticed even a small amount can lead to serious issues, even death.

Symptoms can include increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, nervousness, hyperactivity, trembling, increased drinking, increased urination and seizures.

Chocolate should always be kept out of pets reach and never intentionally given, not even as a small treat. If your pet does happen to digest chocolate, or you suspect they may have, contact your vet immediately.

I think you may be a little big for the couch, Buddy!

http://kb.rspca.org.au/Why-is-chocolate-toxic-to-dogs-and-other-pets_476.html

My neighbour's dogs...

My neighbour has two dogs. One of them says to the other, "Woof!"

The other replies, "Moo!"

The dog is perplexed. "Moo? Why did you say 'Moo'?"

The other dog says, "I'm trying to learn a foreign language."

-Morey Amsterdam



Abbey.

A special story we have come across, it's unsure who replied to this letter, but someone in the Post Office world has a kind soul.

Our 14 year old dog Abbey died last month. The day after she passed away my 4 year old daughter, Meredith was crying and asked if she could write a letter to God so that he would recognise Abbey when she got to heaven. I told her I thought we could and she dictated these words;

Dear God,

Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in heaven. I miss her very much. I'm happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick. I hope you will play with her. She likes to swim and play with balls. I am sendind a picture of her so when you see her, you know she is my dog. I really miss her.

Love, Meredith.

We put the letter in an envelope with a photo of Abbey & Meredith and posted it to God/Heaven with our return address on it.

Yesterday there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch addressed,

'To Meredith' in an unfamiliar hand. Meredith opened it.

Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, 'When a Pet Dies.' Inside was the letter we had written to God and on the opposite page was the picture of Abbey & Meredith with this note;

Dear Meredith,

Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help and I recognized her right away. She isn't sick anymore, her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog. Since we don't need bodies anymore in heaven, I don't have any pockets to keep your picture so I'm sending it back to you in this little book. Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and send it to me. I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much.

By the way, I'm easy to find. I am whereve there is love.

Love,

God.

A Japanese Warrior.

A courageous and dignified dog, the Akita is a strong willed and fearless. The exact origin of the Akita still remains a mystery, as skeletal remains being found can be traced back as far as 500 BC. Today they are known as the Japanese Akita, as their specific breed history had only been recorded for the past 350 years, believing Japan was their origin. As fishing is a major part of the Japanese industry, the Akita quickly became the ideal right hand man for fisherman. With their webbed feet and thick water resistant coat they were ideal for company on the boats. They were also beneficial for mothers whilst they worked in the rice fields, as they are fantastic with children and were used as 'babysitters' to mind their kids whilst they worked. 

The Akita breed didn't arrive into Australia until 1982 and are slowly becoming more well known as time goes on. They make great family pets as they are fantastic with children, given the right training and knowing their place. From a young age they must be taught who is in charge and not be allowed to get the upper hand. Their dense coat malts up to 3 times a year so regular grooming is required. They generally live up to 8 years, but with the right care have been known to exceed 10 years of age.

 With their strong drive the Akita can accomplish anything they set their mind to, with this they require stern training and someone with plenty of time on their hands. The result, though, is fantastic, gaining you a loyal and protective best friend.

Zac is always keen to smile for the camera.

More Information availble from

http://www.pedigree.com.au/breeds/

If you want a friend...

You learn in this business: If you want a friend, get a dog.

Carl Icahn 

http://www.dogquotations.com


Toxic Plants.

A common fruit plant that many of us enjoy can have completly the opposite affect on not only our dogs, but cats & horses also. Apple Tree's stems, leaves and apple seeds contain the chemical compound Cyanide, which is toxic and dangerous to our pets, epecially during the process of wilting. Some dogs and most horses do enjoy an apple as treat, this is completly safe as long as all stems, leaves and seeds are completley removed. Signs of your pet digiesting Cyanide are, dilated pupils, panting, difficulty breathing and shock. Your vet should be consulted immdiantly if you have any concerns.

This information sourced from

http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants?plant_toxicity=toxic-to-dogs

K9 Kab

Don’t have the time drop off or pick up your furry family member? Our K9 Kab service runs Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday mornings and travels all over Melbourne. Our air conditioned & heated Kabs are an easy and convenient way for your pooch to travel safely and comfortably to Dog’s Country Club & Kennel Resort.

For more information visit ;

http://www.dogscountryclubandkennelresort.com.au/

Welcome Winter ...

With the colder weather finally settling in, our furry friends are beginning to feel the chill too. We’re keeping our guests warm with Thermatex dog coats. Made from natural, wool based fabric, they’re water resistant, comfy and very very warm!

The adorable Hector – keeping snug in a Dogs Country Club coat.

Thermatex dog coats are available from Dog’s Country Club, in many colours & sizes.

A dog's expression.

A dog can express more with his tail in minutes than his owner can express with his tongue in hours.

Anonymous

A new family.

After a mother Chimpanzee passed away in a zoo, one of the Zoo's employees took her baby Chimp home to raise. Little did he know that his dog, who had also recently given birth, would take the Chimp in as her own with her babies too. It seem she was a little shocked too as to why one of her pups could grab her with his hands!



Lab love.

It's not hard to understand why the Labrador is one of the most popular breed of dogs around. With their friendly, energetic nature they make a perfect family pets.

Originating off the coast in Canada, the Labrador's were taken over to England to be used as hunting dogs. With their excellent talent to retrieve, they would jump off the boats into the cold waters to retrieve what was thrown for them.

These days they are used in many working fields including guide dog training and sniffer dogs.

Their intelligence can cause some issues, though they are very smart and learn quickly if left to their own devices can get bored extremley quickly. This can lead to distructive behaviour , so they do need to be in a highly stimulated environment with plenty to keep them busy.

Labrador's are great not only with humans but other dogs as well, they are extremley social and love the attention. They generally aren't too fussy with their food, more commonly known for eating everything in sight. With this, they do require regular exercise and do have a lot of energy to burn. They can gain weight quite easily and as they are prone to hip dysplasia this then causes problems for their joints as they age.

The beautiful Bella, keeping watch over everything at Dogs Country Club.

This information & more great facts can be found at.

http://www.pedigree.com.au/breeds/?b=117&p=L&pp=



The thing about Cats & Dogs

Cats have staff, Dogs have owners.

Toxic Plants.

It's something that doesn't usually cross our minds, but some common plants around our yards are in fact toxic to our furry friends.

Aloe Vera.

Aloe Vera is harmful to both Dogs and Cats due to the Saponins that it contains. Saponins is the soap like foam the you can see when you crack an Aloe leaf.

Signs of your dog being affected from this can include vomiting, diarrhoea, change in urine colour, depression, weight loss and tremors.

You should consult your vet immediately if you have any concerns.

This information and plenty more helpful tips availble from;

http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants?plant_toxicity=toxic-to-dogs