National Train Your Dog Month - Small Dog Syndrome

January is National Train Your Dog Month. I like this one because dogs really do aim to please and this month reminds people about the importance of training their dogs. 

Unfortunately, many people neglect to take the time to work on training with their small dogs and end up dealing with some serious behavior problems like barking, snapping and even biting. Some experts call this Small Dog Syndrome (SDS). 

January is National Adopt a Rescued Bird Month

I really love birds. They are so sweet, affectionate, smart and beautiful. Some sing, dance and talk. They are also playful and make wonderful companions. 

Sadly, they are among the first to be relinquished to shelters and sanctuaries. The most common reason for failure is that people just don't take the time to do enough research before buying them. 

photo source

Bean Day 2015 And Why Your Dog Will Care

I'm sure you are wondering what on earth Bean Day 2015 has to do with animals. 

Lots of animals love different types of beans - squirrels, chipmunks, groundhogs, rabbits and deer to name a few. Dogs like them too and they are very good for them.

Black beans, soybeans, and garbanzo beans are all super foods for dogs. Beans help provide natural fibers that help regulate blood sugar levels, one of the leading causes of insulin-resistance and diabetes in dogs. In addition, these rich sources of proteins and minerals boost your pet's immune system and help burn fat. Super "People" Foods For Pets

For dogs who are sensitive to grains there are some tasty and nutritious home made treat recipes using garbanzo bean flour. Here's one from My Clean Kitchen

Homemade Grain Free Dog Biscuits

Ingredients

1 medium banana

3 tablespoon natural crunchy peanut butter

1 large egg

2 cups garbanzo bean flour

3 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
2. Combine liquid ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until combined
3. Add flour gradually until combined. The dough will be very sticky.
4. Cover your work surface with the garbanzo bean flour then roll out the dough using rolling pin. It should be about ¼ inch thick. You will use a lot of garbanzo bean flour to coat the rolling pin and table. The dough is VERY sticky.
5. Using a cookie cutter cut desired shape. We used a dog biscuit shape but I have used a small heart in the past.
6. Place biscuits on a foil lined cookie sheet. They can be placed very close together since they don't rise but not touching.
7. Cook 30-40 minutes until dark golden brown.
8. Let cool on a cooling rack to room temperature.
9. Will last up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

Follow this link to learn more and get the most out of Bean Day 2015. 

#BeanDay2015

#Dogs