Tag: dogs

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Are Dogs An Anti-Aging Cure?

Are Dogs An Anti-Aging Cure

Are dogs an anti-aging cure? We believe so! The benefits of a companion dog in later life are well documented. A proven recipe for the wellbeing of both dog and owner.  Loneliness, as we grow older, is a real and present danger and one that could potentially be addressed with the inclusion of a four-legged friend.

We probably all know someone, maybe a relative or close friend who feels empty after the passing of a loved one or partner.  Maybe those elderly parents feel that they have an empty home after the children have flown the coup and are making their own lives…..  Fear not – help is at hand (or possibly on four legs……)

Likewise, countless dogs are out there in rescue centres wondering if they’ll ever find their forever dog-friendly home – I see matchmaking and love blossoming here…..

What Are The Benefits?

That well-matched pooch could well bring a new lease of life to the household and even a reason for getting up each morning.  It might be just mutual closeness and affection during those evenings when both parties want nothing more than to cuddle up on the sofa and feel appreciated……

A fluffy four-legged reason to leave the house even – It’s so easy to become something of a recluse as we grow older if we have no other commitments or incentives to do otherwise.  Just a short walk or two each day will repay huge dividends – exercise, fresh air, interaction with others – A PURPOSE…..

What If I Can Not Walk For Long Distances?

Some of the smaller breeds require very little exercise but the attention and affection they can give during those long lonely evenings are immeasurable.

Obviously the ‘match’ has to be right and rescue centers, in particular, are well-practiced at this and will work very hard to ensure that the pairing works for all concerned.

Are Dogs An Anti-Aging Cure?

It’s not all plain sailing of course – I have elderly relatives who have had dogs most of their married life until the last (black lab) passed away about 5yrs ago. They also had very fond memories of a Jack Russel they had many many years ago and after much thought and deliberation – sourced a new ‘Jack’ pup…..

Love Conquers All

Well, he settled in rather well, became part of the day to day household and gave them both so much joy.  Until THAT day, whilst spinning like a whirling dervish on his lead as only a Jack Russel pup can do, he tripped up the lady of the house, she fell – and ended up with a broken leg…..!!!  The beautiful footnote to this story is – she absolutely adores him, places no blame his way, wouldn’t change him for the world – and actually had tears in her eyes when he greeted her on her return from hospital……..

Are Dogs An Anti-Aging Cure by John Snellin CALL TO ACTION

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Dog Treats…….

Retriever with Stagler deer antler dog chew

So, what are they – a reward for ‘being good’, a pacifier, a training aid, or just because you’re getting ‘those eyes’ or because ‘you’re worth it’…….???

Ultimately, all of the above are potentially a good enough reason – apart from perhaps the pacifier, because if that’s the only route to pacify your pooch, then something earlier and more elementary has gone wrong and believe me, they’ll work that out in minutes and keep coming back for more – e.g. we all know of that dog that will fetch a ball, bring it back to your feet, drop it, nudge it until you throw it again, and again – and again……..potentially for the next 8 hours.

Do We Treat Dogs As Humans?

Cute dog with stagler

I guess we could make comparisons here to the human+human world – How many children are given a treat for ‘being good’….??? (and this can range from eating their dinner to doing their homework to passing their exams), how many times is a child seen with a pacifier (dummy), or perhaps, more worryingly, how many times is a treat used as a training aid. ‘If you sit quietly for the rest of the journey, we’ll go get a McDonalds’ (other fast-food outlets are available…..).  Saying that, in terms of our canine companions, a treat can be used as an invaluable training aide. Firstly, you only have to watchdog agility classes, gundog, and even police dog training.  Secondly, do we not generally ‘treat’ our loved ones when it comes to Birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, etc. etc…..???

Confusing isn’t it……

Personally, I think balance and moderation are key. – ‘TREATS’, be they to our beloved pets or our human equivalent, always have their place.  Society has become an environment where ‘treats’ are the norm – Had a productive year at work??  Met those targets?? – here, have a pay rise….. HOWEVER – we don’t get a pay rise for just turning up (remember back to the 8-hour ball throwing…??).

Treats have their place

take a moment to reflect on how miserable life would be without the odd treat – a totally forgotten birthday or anniversary?? No recognition for all that time and effort put into a particular task??  Make them count, make them special, and on the odd occasion –  

‘just because they’re worth it’…….

Dog treat in the back of the car
Keep me happy in the back of the car, please!
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From little acorns, mighty vets bills will grow’

Autumn winter acorn

‘From little acorns, mighty vets bills will grow’…….

I know of several dogs who just love to chase around with an acorn, dropping it, picking it up, repeat again, and again, and again…..

Whilst this behavior is, in the main, quite safe. After all, nature has just provided a whole new natural toy box. Remember there are inherent dangers if our furry friends start to explore the acorn that bit further.

Acorns contain ‘tannins’ which are potentially quite serious if a dog ingests them.

Exposure to acorns

In the autumn/winter months is obviously common.  If ingested, however, the Tannic Acid (‘tannins’) can cause damage to both the liver and kidneys. I should also mention a possible intestinal blockage – the very least that can happen here is – VETS BILLS, and one very unhappy, poorly dog.

Signs that your best friend may have eaten something from the squirrel’s larder could include – vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite and general lethargy.

The large and giant breeds can probably accommodate eating the odd acorn now and then, but it’s certainly not to be recommended.  The small and toy breeds are the ones who will suffer the most, even by consuming just one acorn.

What Do I Do If I Am Worried?

If you do see this happen or believe your dog is showing some of the above signs (especially if you know the dog’s environment contains acorns), then you must provide as much freshwater as possible and contact your vet immediately for specialist advice.

Obviously, the sensible advice would be to not allow your dog access to an environment with acorns. But many favourite walks have these potentially interesting, alternative and tasty (at the time) autumn treats.  Subsequently, that can be far easier said than done, due to many of us walking our dogs off lead in woodland. You may even have oak trees in our own garden.

As with so many aspects of our relationship with our canine best mates, we come back to the same old basics of – control, monitoring, observation, and awareness.

I wonder if a squirrel gets a stomach upset if it eats dog food……????

Author: John Palmer-Snellin, Director

from oak trees come acorns
Green Acorns will turn brown before they drop to the floor
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How do I choose the Best Dog Chew for my dog?

How do I choose the best dog chew for my dog is something we hear quite often, and we are happy to advise. We are often recommended by friends who walk dogs together or at puppy training classes. Because the most common complaint we hear is the inferior quality of the big chain store pale chews, our mission is to give quality.

Fortunately for you, with our expertise available to you, once a Staglers Client, you need go no where else! An if you love doing your own research, check out our testimonials or our Facebook Feedback.

So we decided to let you speak for us. Here are some real life conversations we’ve had to help you.

John is Happy To Help You, by Contact Us, Email or Phone

JUST ASK JOHN: Please would you let me know roughly the minimum length of your extra-large Staglers. The reason I ask is because my Golden Retriever adores deer antlers, but after having had surgery on both her front legs finds it difficult to hold shorter ones (under about 15cm/6”). Sadly, too many of the antlers that are sold are too short for her to enjoy them to the full.

The Answer: As chews are individual by selected upon weight John picked out some particularly long extra-large chews for this beautiful dog! Everyone happy.

JUST ASK JOHN: Where is my nearest Supplier to us in SP2?

The Answer: Let you fingers do the quick buying as you only have to pop on line and take 4 simple steps and John will have your choice of chews on their way to you quickly . www.staglers.co.uk

JUST ASK JOHN: Hi. I run puppy/dog training classes in West Dorset. In the past, you sent me some A5 leaflets to hand out to my clients – I have now almost run out. As a fan of stag antlers, I would like to continue to provide this info. Please could you send me replacements.

The Answer: Absolutely! I am passing you way at the end of the week and could drop them in, or we can let Royal Mail take the strain!

Personal Service Is Why We are The Best

How do I choose the best dog chew for my dog?

JUST ASK JOHN: I have a Viszla who adores antlers, they are the only thing that last, I need a decent size for her which is difficult to find in the shops, when they get chewed down I like to put peanut butter into the hollow areas as an extra treat so I want a good shape, her current one has 3 hollow ends but is getting small.  Sorry to be fussy, can you recommend?

The Answer:

  • Personally I’d suggest an XL as Viszlas are pretty powerful chewers. I have a number of perfect chews similar to the one you describe with 3 openings.
    I hope this helps, Regards John
  • And…… Because we like to go the extra mile – perhaps you’d like to pick your own from the attached pic, with number 1 being at the top and number 10 at the bottom……???
  • Wow! Number 3 and 7 please, so grateful to you and I’ll be back for more I’m sure.
  • That’s no problem at all – I’ll pack it myself and ensure its just as you ask!!
  • Just taken delivery of Elsa’s antlers, she will be happy for hours, thank you so much for the fridge magnet and the chocolates, my mum and I will have them this afternoon with a cup of coffee.  So glad I found you on the internet!    Many thanks and I will definitely be back for more. Kind Regards G

JUST ASK JOHN: Please help, I have a 29kg Labrador 2yrs old,what size should I buy for her please?

The Answer: Sounds like your lovely Labrador deserves a Looney Large” because of the size and the interesting features.

Happy Client:  Thank you for your reply John. I have placed an order for a ‘looney large’ and if possible would like a stick type shape with some points on the end.
I see from the payment details that should I make regular purchases I will have to open a PayPal account. I’m hoping there is an alternative way to pay, over the phone perhaps? as I don’t want a PayPal account. Thanking you in anticipation for your helpful reply and for my order.
A 😊
Your Dog Deserves Quality, You’ll Save Money In The End

JUST ASK JOHN: Hello, my border terrier  loves chewing on antlers. I buy them from a pet stall at the local market. The size, shape and weigh of the pieces varies considerately. B is a long legged border terrier weighing 10kg, a fit and active little dog who is a vigorous chewer. As well as value for money, I’m looking for something to challenge him. What would you recommend? Thanking you in anticipation. A

The Answer: Hi A, many thanks for your enquiry.  Due to the fact that I have found some market stalls sell antler off-cuts, which consequently vary greatly in both size and quality (and its often uncertain where they were sourced from).

First of all, for a Border Terrier I would suggest a size Medium (we also have a 9kg Border!!), or probably a size Large if you wanted to go bigger.  Our current range of ‘Loony Large’ are good value and a little cheaper than the normal Large.  If you let me know what particular shape your dog likes I can pick it myself – some people always want a straight ‘stick’ type, others want a few points, some want a chunky stubby one – they’re all different!!

I hope this helps.

John

Creative Crafts From Antler

JUST ASK JOHN: I have recently started pen turning and would be interested in purchasing some antlers to make some pens with. Each pen I make needs two small pieces 60mm x 20mm minimum. Do you have smaller off cuts that we be too small for a dog that I could use (happy to buy them) or which size do you think would be best for me from your normal stock (can’t see any actual sizes in measurements on there). John M

The Answer: We have a number of craftsmen and women who make beautiful things from Antler. Of course I can help.

Sometimes it is the technical stuff that gets us!

JUST ASK JOHN:  I would like to order 3 products but l keep getting locked out..saying my e-mail not correct or password.its getting me so FRUSTRATED

The Answer: Hi M, I’ve just sent your email to our web guy to see if there’s a problem. If all else fails I can take an order over the phone. Will get back to you soonest. J Sent from my iPhone

Happy Client: Thank you for your assistance, I realise it was my human error but your personal phone service was great. M

Fast Delivery to Rival Amazon – We Do Our Best!

Happy Client: Follow up: Just to say “thank you” for the advice you gave me on Friday and the rapid delivery. Extremely well packaged and arrived today. Puppy is already getting to grips with his new antler. Hoping that he won’t mistake my oak furniture for his new wood root though. M

Due To The Volume Of Requests, We Cannot Give Stock Away, But Always Happy To Promote With Our Leaflets.

JUST ASK JOHN: Hi can I get any free sample you can offer for my 6 month old Labrador approximately 20kg and lost all his puppy teeth –

The Answer: Sadly we are unable to offer free samples to all the requests we receive.

JUST ASK JOHN:  I have a lovely litter of Cockapoo puppies . I am looking for some info leaflets to put in the puppies pack . I was wondering if you had any you would be happy to send me ? Thank you T

The Answer: Happy to help.

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How Could taking my dog to Work Help?

Taking your dog to work from Staglers

How Could taking my dog to Work Help? is our buzz question of the week. We have Biscuit, our Border Terrier, here with us and find the benefit rewarding. Do you have you dog in your workplace?

Attitudes are changing,

40 years ago, it used to be certain professions, farmers, Police, rescue services who all have trained dogs. When we were children the dogs stayed at home with mum, who was worked from home raising the family and looking after Dad! Allowing employees to bring their dog into work demonstrates a positive reflection on the company. It shows the company to be forward-thinking, considerate, approachable and flexible. Image how that image then reflects on prospective clients.

Locally to us, there is a local IT Software Solutions company, KFA Connect Ltd, in Ringwood, Hampshire who believes that they may have the highest number of Dogs who join their owners in their open-plan offices.

“Many clients and suppliers who visit offices are impressed with the warm welcome offered by the dogs who accompany their owners to work. Tell us about your canine friendly working environment.”

Does it improve productivity?

It is being proved that dogs can help boost productivity in the workplace. Think about it, if you take short breaks it is more stimulating than sitting at your desk pounding out work. Dogs are your excuse to “take the air” and come back with a different perspective or with the solution to that problem that was a sticking point. Returning to today’s tasks with a refreshed outlook and even extra energy.

Creativity Rules

Praising companies with this approach is one thing, but knowing their recruits are likely to be people who think outside the box, resulting in an environment that breeds creativity, look out the competition! Imagine your team coming up with new ideas as a result of looking a dog relaxing.

Improved Team bonding for Employees.

Employees, who don’t own the dog, ask to take the dog out for a walk or a play with others getting involved too. Friendships can be bonded as you become dog walking besties. The result can be improving teamwork, encouraging employees to work together more cooperatively and develop a new trust. A win win for the business, the employees and, of course, our four-legged friends.

Can walking your dog at lunchtime reduce stress and lead to a healthier you?

Absolutely, Walking burns anywhere from 90 to 200 calories in 30 minutes. (You burn fewer calories if you walk at the strolling rate of a 30-minute mile) Fresh air, stimulating conversation (with yourself, your dog or a colleague!) helps relax and stress and anxiety. Imagine if you can work in a calmer way, even under pressure. Business owners could this lead to happier, healthier employees who aren’t taking as many sick days. Light bulb moment.

 The Dog Interview List to Get the Job

  1. There are a few things that need to be planned if you are going to try this. After all a pack of disagreeing dogs is going to send your heart-rate through the roof!
  2. it’s important to make sure your pet will behave. Barkers not welcome.
  3. Have the dogs been socialized or had any obedience training or are they just simply nice people!
  4. Are they happy to sit at your feet or are they going to be on guard at every distraction?
  5. If visitors arrive at work will they listen to you if you ask them to sit or stay.
  6. Jumping up is rude and a no no.

If you are happy to “step outside your comfort zone” check if your company has a dog-friendly policy or, better still, see if they want to introduce one. You can lead by example to create an improved culture.

Finally, we must spare a thought for our work colleagues who simply DON’T LIKE DOGS! Hard to imagine isn’t it?  Simple area separation, pet free areas and respect for each other’s wishes should do it.

There are 6,000 dogs ‘working’ at Amazon.

One Company who are paving the way in everything they do is AMAZON.

At the retail giant’s Seattle-based headquarters, human employees share their work space with approximately 6,000 pups on any given day, the company announced on their blog.

It all started with Rufus, a Welsh Corgi won the hearts in the office.

Amazon also has a doggie deck, for pets to run around, on their 17th floor, which boasts a fake fire hydrant, dog relief areas and water stations.

Check out our

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Local Pet Services for Dogs and Puppies

Local Pet Services for Dogs and Puppies are thriving.  We are seeing a number of young entrepreneurs setting up their own businesses, Dog groomers, Dog Walkers &  house sitters. We love the pubs who are organizing dog events and coffee mornings or  socializing puppy drop ins are on the rise. The Visit Dorset Website is well worth a look as it is clear and informative.

Because we are all leading busy lives there is a growing need to spend quality time with for our beloved canines, Doggie drop ins and walking services focus on your pet and give them the benefit of spending time with their own canine kind. If it is training you are looking for then The Kennel Club has the people you need to contact, just search your area.

Mobile Dog Groomers bring a much needed service to your home, especially important for the elderly and those who are unable to drive. Pets are critical companions for many people but they also have needs to be taken care of – toe clipping, haircuts, bathing etc.

Training and Education Opportunities

Especially popular are the courses at Kingston Maurward College   (not sure about the picture on the site 🙂Dogs in the bath having fun with Staglers

 

 

Local Pet Services for Dogs and Puppies

We love to check out great businesses on the Good Dog Guide. Try The Good Dog Guide

MuckyPups is based in Poole and set up by Alice. Her business, webpage etc is based on friendly “Welcome to the Mucky Pups family! My name is Alice  (Bsc Hons Animal Management) and I provide top class care for your precious pups. CITY GUILDS LEVEL 3, From dog walking to dog grooming anDoggie day spad pet spa.” What’s not to like, especially the pet spa, we can all do with a little rest and relaxation!

 

 

 

Emma’s Ark @emmas.ark2017 is brand new and receiving rave reviews. If you have any animals that need looking after she’s your girl. Small holding, pets, ducks, all sorts. A wealth of experience and a fab personality makes this local girl a winner. Check out Emma’s Face book page.

 

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Visit All About Dogs Shows

Staglers and All about dogs working together for dogs
Visit All About Dogs Shows to guarantee yourself a great day out. Plan ahead and look them up!  Furthermore, these awesome shows are available all across the country.  The dog world is in a tail chasing mood to work hard to ensure that this years shows are the best ever.  All About Dogs continues to be the leading regional dog events.

There are attractions, arena shows, fun dog shows, meet the breeders, have a go and of course shopping. Don’t forget your dog will love it too, designed for them and their needs, loved by owners and indulging their needs!

The good news…. Staglers will be at the Newbury and Hylands Park shows this year! 

In addition, with over 17,000 likes on their FaceBook page, they have a great platform to shout about what they do. Awesome

8th/9th April –  Newbury, Newbury ShowgroundStaglers deer antler dog chews show stand

16th/17th April – Dogs Suffolk, Trinity Park, Suffolk

22nd/23rd April –   Newark,Newark Showground

Sept –  Hylands, Hylands Park (Chelmsford, Essex)

We look forward to seeing you and don’t forget to vist their our official facebook pages – visit www.allaboutdogsshow.co.uk for all the exciting news and photos.
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Dog Owners Love Reviews

Dog owners love reviews and are taking charge of their own feedback opportunity given to them through the excellent Reviews website.

Leave Your Review today and see your valued opinion in stars (sorry lights not available at this time!) Your moment to shine!

 

Introduced in 2017 the dedicated team at Staglers Ltd totally get the value of happy customer participation.

In the words of the old song “Do you wannabe in my gang?” It is as simple as sneaking up on your dog to take a photo. Did we say sneaking up on your dog? YES WE DID

Interesting fact – many dogs are a little camera shy. As soon as you get the iPhone out they stop what they are doing and look at you. As if to say It wasn’t me! Does this happen in your house?

Reviews from people like you.

“Excellent service, my bulldog loves his antlers from you. So no improvements needed as far as I’m concerned” Thanks Olive
Excellent product loved by my little dogs and immediate dispatch. Thora 

Vinnie says he loves them because they are;

Strong
Tasty
Affordable
Great
Long lasting
Eliminate bad breath / tooth decay
Rural
Sustainable

Vinnie is a lucky dog, his mum (Chloe)  is a poet!

 

Facebook

Another opportunity to SHOUT about Staglers is on our active Facebook page. We will always keep intouch and love to hear which chews have lasted the longest with which breed of dog. Sounds like the challenge is on.

Great owners. Really friendly and a local company too. – Jason

Our dogs absolutely love them!! They’re normally quite fussy but took to these immediately!! – Thanks Gillian

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Staglers County and Dog Show Fun

Staglers deer antler dog chews show stand

Staglers Dog Shows 2016 Country Shows, Dog Shows with deer antler dog chews
Staglers stand 

Staglers County and Dog Show Fun. Easy to spot brightly coloured orange show stand. Staglers Dog Shows 2016 gives us a great opportunity to meet you and your wonderful pets. Many shows welcome dogs so plan ahead, put a date in your diary and do something different.

Click on the show name to get all of the latest information and see how you can go too…

We are attending the All About Dogs Show next weekend

1st and 2nd September Dorset County Show

When: 1st & 2nd September 2018
Where: Dorchester Show Ground
How do I get there: Directions 
Doors: From 10 – 4 Under 16yr olds FREE
Parking: Lots of Parking
Dogs: Permitted on lead. Must have full and upto date inoculations and you must clear up after your dog.

The Show will be sign posted from the Dorchester Ring Road. If you are approaching Dorchester from Yeovil (A37), Wimborne (A35) or Wareham (A352) follow the yellow signs. The Dorchester Showground is approximately 1 mile from the town centre inside the Ring Road. Turn towards Dorchester Town Centre at the Kingston Maurward College roundabout and take the first right. The Showground is on the left.

Whats On at the Dorset County Show this year?

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Dogs Delight In Top Quality Antler

Dogs Delight In Top Quality Antler –

Staglers Deer Antler Dog Chew treat for all breeds of dog
Thank you for submitting your amazing photo of Hugo with his Stagler!

Staglers Lazy Dog Chews for Puppies and older dogs
Ellie Thank you for such a quick delivery. Ellie loves her antler and is worried I’m going to take it away! Thanks again- Laura (and Ellie) X

Your feedback is amazing and can pick us up on a hectic day. The reward we feel when you reward your pets with their treat is immense and we are very proud. Please keep your feedback coming and the comments we are receiving at the Devon County Show is brilliant!

Dogs Delight In Top Quality Antler May Feedback

Hi, just wanted to say I’m extremely impressed with the Stagler or should I say Charlie is, I’ve never seen him so attached to anything before, he carries it round like it’s his pride & Joy 😃
Thanks for introducing these to us, probably wouldn’t have bought one if I’d never won the competition
Audrey

They have only just arrived what a brilliant service storm practically helped me unwrap them she took one and went straight to lay down with it the cat is very pleased as am I!  I so wish I had found you sooner

 

Thank you ! Found one of yours today at our local pet shop ! Woody loves it !

Also would like to tell you I am so delighted with your products I can wait to expand them when word gets out and they become even more popular