My heart shatters in a million pieces every time I see a helpless dog fending for itself.
But, to see an entire canine family struggling is just beyond words!
According to USA Today, around 10 million dogs cross the Rainbow Bridge every year due to abuse, neglect, or cruelty.
This devastating statistic becomes even more brutal when witnessed firsthand, painting a realistic picture of how challenging the mission of an animal rescuer can be.
One such sad story comes from California. A dog mom: with her puppies, in a basket… only days from facing the inevitable!
A Sorrowful Sight
A giant-hearted worker from an industrial area spotted a mom dog and her three babies placed in a tiny plastic basket. Tied together and dumped in one spot, the dogs had no place to go.
They were abandoned by their previous owner, who left them there at the mercy of the streets. They were left with absolutely no food or shelter above their head. All they had in that moment was each other’s company.
The person immediately contacted Suzette Hall, a long-time rescuer of Logan’s Legacy, from Irvine, California.
“I literally couldn’t believe it when I pulled up. Tied together in an industrial area. Literally dumped. Did they actually think they would survive out there,” Hall wrote on her Facebook.
Throughout years of rescuing dogs from various situations, Hall witnessed many heartbreaking stories. But, this one in particular was devastating!
This kind woman immediately jumped into action and rushed to save this canine family from the basket.
To her surprise, the canines didn’t display any sign of aggression at all! Being let down by their previous owner, it was expected to see the dogs raging or showing fear. But, instead, they turned out to be true little sweethearts!
They were just happy to see someone extending them a friendly hand. The mom even started to wag her tail as Hall approached and addressed her with a nice, warm tone.
“Mama was wiggling her tail that I had come. I see the little eyes looking up at me from inside the basket,” Hall wrote.
Off To A Better Life
After she scooped them up from the floor, Hall took these furry beauties to a better life!
However, the start of their journey wasn’t that glamorous after all. Being on their own had taken a toll on their health. Aside from ticks caused by outdoor life, the mom also had diarrhoea, and she was throwing up.
“Poor mama has diarrhoea and throwing up. The puppies and mama are covered in ticks. We need to run a lot of test for this little family,” Hall added.
For now, the family will be treated by a medical team at Camino Pet Hospital, Irvine, California, until they are fully recovered. Once their situation has improved and they are finally ready to embark on a new journey, the puppies will be in search of a forever home!
Hopefully, their new exciting adventure awaits just around the corner. They truly deserve it!
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why your furry friend seems to have a penchant for licking everything in sight, you’re not alone. Dog behavior can be both fascinating and puzzling at times. From your face to the furniture, their tongue seems to have a mind of its own. You might have caught yourself pondering the reasons behind this quirky habit that your canine companion just can’t seem to shake.
It’s like a never-ending cycle of licks that leaves you curious about what’s going on in that furry head. Dogs have their unique ways of communicating, and licking is just one of the many ways they express themselves. So, the next time you catch your dog in a licking frenzy, remember, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Let’s uncover the secrets behind this slobbery behavior together.
Understanding Canine Licking Behavior
Exploring the Basics of Dog Communication
When your dog licks everything in sight, it’s their way of communicating. Dogs rely heavily on their senses, and licking is a form of expressing themselves. It could be a sign of affection, a way to seek attention, or even indicate anxiety. Understanding this basic form of dog communication can help you decipher what your furry friend is trying to convey.
Licking as a Natural Instinct
Licking is a natural instinct for dogs. Puppies, for example, learn about the world through their mouths, so licking objects is a way for them to explore and understand their environment. Additionally, licking releases endorphins, which can have a calming effect on your dog. It’s a behavior deeply rooted in their nature and serves various purposes beyond just keeping things clean.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Lick Everything
Affection and Bonding
Dogs lick you and objects around them to show love and strengthen their bond with you. The act of licking releases endorphins, making them feel good, similar to when you hug someone you care about. It’s their way of saying, “I love you” and creating a connection with you.
Exploring Taste and Texture
When dogs lick everything, they are not just cleaning but also exploring tastes and textures. Just like how we use our hands to touch and feel objects, dogs use their tongues. They lick different surfaces to understand their surroundings, whether it’s to discover new scents or enjoy the remnants of a tasty treat.
Seeking Attention and Interaction
Your dog may lick everything as a way to grab your attention and engage with you. By licking, they communicate that they want interaction and playtime with you. It’s their way of saying, “Hey, pay attention to me!” Dogs enjoy being close to their humans, and licking is one way they seek your companionship and presence.
When Licking Becomes a Problem
Signs of Compulsive Licking
If your dog licks excessively, to the extent where it’s affecting their daily life or causing harm, it could be a sign of compulsive behavior. Look out for signs such as constant licking of surfaces, objects, or themselves for extended periods. Keep an eye on any redness, irritation, or hair loss in the licked area as these could be indications of a problem.
Potential Health Issues Associated with Excessive Licking
Excessive licking can lead to various health issues for your furry friend. It may result in skin irritation, hot spots, or even infections if not addressed. Furthermore, continuous licking of objects can expose your dog to harmful substances or toxins. If you notice your dog engaging in compulsive licking behaviors, it might be time to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Addressing Excessive Licking
Training and Behavior Modification Techniques
If your dog is constantly licking everything, it may be necessary to implement training and behavior modification techniques. Start by redirecting your dog’s attention when you notice excessive licking. Offer a chew toy or engage in play to distract them from the behavior. Consistency is key in training, so reward your dog with praise or treats when they refrain from excessive licking. Positive reinforcement can help break the habit over time.
Environmental Enrichment for Your Dog
To curb excessive licking, consider enriching your dog’s environment. Providing interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and engaging activities can help stimulate your dog mentally and physically, reducing the urge to lick excessively. Taking your dog for regular walks and ensuring they have enough playtime can also prevent boredom-induced licking behaviors. A stimulating environment can contribute to a happier and healthier dog.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog’s excessive licking persists despite training efforts and environmental enrichment, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian. Persistent, compulsive licking can indicate underlying medical issues such as allergies, skin conditions, or anxiety. A vet can perform a thorough examination to rule out any health concerns and provide appropriate treatment options. Seeking professional help early can address the root cause of the behavior and ensure your dog’s well-being.
Conclusion
Your dog’s licking behavior serves various purposes, from expressing affection to exploring the world around them. While licking is a natural and often harmless behavior, excessive licking can indicate underlying issues that require attention. It’s essential to observe your dog’s licking habits and seek guidance from a veterinarian if you notice compulsive behavior. By implementing training techniques and providing a stimulating environment, you can help curb excessive licking and ensure your furry friend’s well-being. Remember, a balanced approach involving both behavioral interventions and professional advice is key to addressing and managing your dog’s licking tendencies effectively. Stay attentive, stay proactive, and enjoy the loving bond you share with your canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs lick people?
Dogs lick people as a way to show affection, seek attention, and bond with their owners. It is a natural behavior that helps them communicate their feelings of love and companionship.
What are the potential issues with excessive licking?
Excessive licking in dogs can indicate compulsive behavior, leading to health problems such as skin irritation, hot spots, and ingestion of harmful substances. It is essential to address this behavior to prevent serious health consequences.
How should owners handle excessive licking?
Owners can manage excessive licking through training and behavior modification techniques like redirecting attention, providing chew toys, and offering environmental enrichment. Consistency in training and creating a stimulating environment are key to curbing boredom-induced licking behaviors.
When should owners consult a veterinarian about their dog’s licking behavior?
If a dog displays compulsive licking behaviors that persist despite intervention, owners should consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical issues. Professional examination and appropriate treatment may be necessary to address the root cause of excessive licking.
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Hey there, I’m Janet Brooks, a dog-loving student from California. I’m all about helping pups in need, especially those without homes. Me and my awesome friends work together to give shelter and love to stray dogs. Oh, and I also write blogs about dogs to share helpful info.