From Now on "Like" us on Facebook!

From now on we will be continuing our blog posts on our New Facebook Page! "Like" us at http://facebook.com/bestfriendsclintontownship

50% off Retail Sale!

Best Friends Pet Care is having a 50% off selected retail sale!

You can purchase a toy for your own dog, a gift for someone's pet or for one of the many dogs in the shelter. We are collecting donations for the local rescues and this would be a good time to buy the angels on the tree a toy for Christmas!!!

Harper Lawn Pet Memorial Gardens is open year round

HarperLawn Pet Memorial Gardens is one of the oldest and most beautiful pet cemeteries in Michigan. At this time of year, we are selling grave blankets and vases for the pets buried within our grounds.

We offer complete burial services, scheduled at your convience, as well as a chapel for private viewing.

We also offer private cremations, with the guarantee that your pet will be handled on an individual basis. We have a large selection of urns and pet chests available. We provide valet service where we will pick up your beloved at your home or the veterinarians office.

We understand the grief that comes with the loss of a beloved pet. Each and every pet is a valued family member. We offer a variety of services to assist all pet owners in choosing an option that is right for them. Whatever the choice, we are here to help.

HarperLawn Pet Memorial Gardens
33711 Harper Ave
Clinton Twp, MI 48035
586-792-3030

http://www.harperlawnpetcemetery.com/

Thanksgiving Holiday Feast!

Thanksgiving dinner was a huge success here at Best Friends Pet Care!  Every year we offer our boarding dogs a homemade turkey dinner (of course, mom and dad must approve first).

We roast the turkey right here and the smell drives the customers, dogs and staff crazy all day while it's roasting. It's wonderful that while the owners are off with their family, their beloved pets are still able to get a piece of home with their special dinner.

This year, all but 1 dog ate everything, even licked the bowl. The one dog chewed up her carrots and spit them out...can't blame her though, the turkey was delicious!

How to Give A Cat A Bath

     Some people have the misconception that cats never have to be bathed.  That they somehow "lick" themselves clean.  Contrary to this belief cats do not have an enzyme in their salivia that resembles Tide.  Cats like their nemesis, the dog, do get dirty and have a variety of orders.       Now we all know that cats HATE water.  And we all know that giving a cat a sedative to ease this purpose is out of thw question.  So the best approach is to be sneaky and direct.  Remember now, this is not the dog who can be led to the tub with lies and a trail of Kibbles and Bits.  Although your cat has the advantage of smarts, quickness, and total lack of concern for you...you have the advantage of size, strength, and the ability to wear protective garments.  Follow the easy steps below:

1. Dress for the occasion, a 4 ply rubber wet suit is suggested, a long with a helmet, face mask, and welder's gloves.
2. A bathtub with a glass enclosure is preferred to the one with the shower curtain.  A frenzied cat can shred a curtain in about 3.5 seconds.
3. Prepare the bathtub area.  Have the Kitty Shampoo and towel in the bathtub before hand.  No...blow drying the cat after the bath is not suggested.  Draw the water making it a little warmer than needed as you still need to find the cat.  Position everything strategically in the shower, so you can reach it even if you are face down or prone in the tub.
4. Find your cat and use the element of surprise.  Pick up your cat nonchalantly as if your were carrying them to their supper dish.  No need to worry about the cat noticing your strange attire, the cat barely notices you anyway.
5. Once you have you cat in the bathroom, speed is essential.  In one signle liquid motion shut the door, shut the bathroom door, step into the tub enclosure, slide the glass door shut, dip the cat in the water and squirt him with shampoo. You have now begun one of the wildest 45 seconds of your life.
6. Cats have no handles. Add the fact that he now has soapy fur, and the problem is radically compounded. Do not expect to hold on to him for more than two or three seconds at a time. When you have him, however, you must remember to give him another squirt of shampoo and rub like crazy. He'll then spring free and fall back into the water, thereby rinsing himself off. (The national record for cats is three latherings, so don't expect too much.)
7. Next, the cat must be dried. Novice cat bathers always assume this part will be the most difficult, for humans generally are worn out at this point and the cat is just getting really determined. In fact, the drying is simple compared with what you have just been through. That's because by now the cat is semi-permanently affixed to your right leg. 
8. You simply pop the drain plug with your foot, reach for your towel and wait. (Occasionally, however, the cat will end up clinging to the top of your army helmet. If this happens, the best thing you can do is to shake him loose and to encourage him toward your leg.) After all the water is drained from the tub, it is a simple matter to just reach down and dry the cat. 
9. In a few days the cat will relax enough to be removed from your leg. He will usually have nothing to say for about three weeks and will spend a lot of time sitting with his back to you. He might even become psychoceramic and develop the fixed stare of a plaster figurine.
10. You will be tempted to assume he is angry. This isn't usually the case. As a rule he is simply plotting ways to get through your defenses and injure you for life the next time you decide to give him a bath.
11. But at least now he smells a lot better

And yes Best Friends Pet Care does offer cat grooming by a professional! No helmet required

Fundraising for The American Brittany Rescue

Every year Best Friends Pet Care puts up their Angel Tree...this is a great way to fundraise money, food, bedding, etc for local rescues. Throughout the months of November and December, pet lovers can stop by their local Best Friends and make a much needed donations.

This year we have adopted the American Brittany Rescue . They are a foster based rescue and are in need of loving homes for their list of available dogs. If you cannot adopt a Brittany, than maybe you can donate a financial gift to them.


Lance is in need of a forever home


 Last year, more than $20,000 worth of food, toys, treats and pet care products were donated to 60 shelters and rescue organizations in 18 states by the Best Friends Pet Care organization.


Buddy needs a forever home





Training for the Holiday Season

Best Friends Pet Care offers several training options for your new puppy. Many families consider bringing home a new puppy and while it's true that Christmas only comes once a year, puppies are here for a lifetime. A well behaved puppy becomes a well behaved dog and a true member of your family.



Dalmation



Great Dane





Jack Russel



Once you've done your homework on which breed is the right fit for your family and have picked out the cutest of the bunch and the excitement of having your new addition home is over, now comes time to train your puppy.

We offer a 6 week class setting training where you attend with your puppy and learn while he's learning. We also offer an in-house training program where you board your puppy and we do the training. We follow up with you after the specified period of time. Both programs are successful, it boils down to what works for you and your family!

Give us a call at 586-792-3000 to inquire which training program would work best for you and your new puppy!

And of course, all of the above applies to adult dogs too...it's never too late to train a dog! And yes an old dog CAN learn new tricks

Belg Sheepdog Lakenos

Thanksgiving Holiday Feast!

Best Friends Pet Care offers a lovely holiday dinner for our boarding guests!  We offer boarding for dogs and cats with room for the occasional rabbit, ferret, turtle or guinea pig.

We prepare this holiday meal on-site with the yummy smells inticing all that come through our front doors. So while you are having YOUR turkery and trimmings on Thanksgiving night, your dog will be enjoy theirs as well! Yummmmmy!

Fun was had by all in our Halloween daycampers party!!!

There will always be next year for those who didn't attend Best Friends Pet Care's halloween party!

Troy not looking too happy!



Chomper and Zeus bogging for hotdogs

 For those daycamper who attended our annual halloween party, there was bobbing for hotdogs, games and best costumes winners!

Join our daycampers and keep on the look out for our next party!

DayCamp Howl-o-ween party!

Penny and Scruffy having fun!

Best Friends Pet Care is hosting a Daycamp howl-o-ween party for the daycampers on Wednesday, October 27th from 8am-4pm.

Bring your dog in to play (must be spayed/neutered and dog friendly) in costume. Best Costume will win a prize!!!!

Games, goodie bags and lots of fun to be had!

Stella the devil

Call Best Friends for details how to sign your pet up for the day! 586-792-3000
Best Friends is located at 33711 Harper Ave, Clinton Twp, MI 48035

Best Friends Pet Care raising money with Guardian for Animals!

Best Friends Pet Care is joining Guardian for Animals for their 5th Annual Pet Expo & Adoption Event on Sat, Sept 18 10-6 and Sun, Sept 19 10-3. The event is being held at 876 Horace Brown Dr, Madison Heights, MI 48071. There is no entry or parking fee!

Many precious, homeless animals will be waiting to meet you and available for adoption.


Bring your current pet and enter the

* Silliest Pet Trick Contest
* Best Dressed Contest (held Saturday early afternoon with prizes)
* Enjoy demonstrations by Madison Heights Police K-9s
* Get free advise from our "Ask the Vet" segment
* Visit the many vendors (including Best Friends Pet Care)
* Silent auctions
* Raffles
* Play games and enjoy some good eats for animals and humans!

Proceeds benefit GFA's emergency medical fund which helps Madison Heights Animal Shelter and other GFA Affiliates.

Please come, have a good time knowing that every dollar you donate helps to feed a hungry homeless animal for up to three days.

We hope to see you there!

Back to school is the perfect time for dog obedience!

When school starts and the kids are back on a schedule and working hard at their studies, it is the perfect time to get your dog on a schedule and work on their studies (obedience) too!

Obedience training will offer your dog mental stimulation while providing some one-on-one bonding time for you and your dog. This can go a long way in getting a dog adjusted to a new routine.

Best Friends offers several options in dog training: Puppy Manners and Basic Obedience are taught in a class setting. You and your dog will be instructed throughtout the 6-week program on sit, stay, heel, down, come, leave it and more. Your dog will also have the opportunity for becoming social (which is especially important if this is the issue that brings you to class). We also offer private classes and our board and train program.

Our training classes are starting at the end of September so give us a call to reserve your spot now. 586-792-3000

Day Camp now open to our boarding dogs!

Best Friends Pet Care is so pleased to introduce our new all inclusive boarding package...the Play and Stay .

This package is the best of both worlds for both owner and dog...the owners get the reassurance of leaving their best friend with the best in the boarding world AND their dog receives love, care and attention all while making new friends in our daycamp.

On day of arrival we will evaluate your dog and introduce him/her to the daycamper. While staying with us he/she will have a blast playing outside in our fenced in grass play area or in our indoor gym with his/her new friends. Your dog's days are spent burning off energy and having fun among friends.On day of departure you will pick up a happy, relaxed and contented pet.

That's peace of mind, and why we always say: "It's best to stay with Friends!"

Is Your Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms?

Summer can bring severe weather, and with all the thunderstorms we have had lately, we thought we would offer some helpful hints for those of you who have dogs that run for cover when it storms... (from http://www.aspca.org/ )

Any dog can develop a fear of thunderstorms, but herding breeds seem to be more susceptible to developing noise phobias. Age is another risk factor: dogs who are afraid of thunderstorms can become more distressed with each successive season, so it's smart to start working with your dog as soon as you notice his fearful behavior. If your adult dog suddenly seems afraid of storms, you should start with a visit to your vet to make sure the fear is not medically based.

For dogs with mild thunderstorm phobia, these tricks may get rid of the problem entirely:

Let your dog take refuge inside. Storms aren't as loud and scary inside and this ensures he won't try to escape from the yard.

Having some human company often calms panicked dogs. If he comes to you for security, it's perfectly fine to pet and reassure him.

Try turning on some calming music, a TV, a radio or a fan to muffle storm noises. Shutting the drapes may also help if lightning frightens your dog.

More active distractions, such as a stuffed Kong, scattered treats throughout the house or playing tug/fetch may help as well.

If your dog's quality of life is seriously affected by his fear of thunderstorms, consider speaking with a vet about anti-anxiety medications. Additionally, there are a number of products on the market that may help your dog remain calm during storms, including close-fitting body wraps, noise-reducing headphones and herbal remedies.

For more information, please visit http://www.aspca.org/.

Doggy Daycamp/Play and Stay are Here!

Best Friends Pet Care has been successfully offering Doggy Daycamp for the past year! Drop your pooch off in the morning and they will enjoy playing all day long with other dogs in our spacious camp room! Dogs must be at least 5 months of age, current on all required vaccinations with a clear fecal exam, well-socialized and not food/toy aggressive to qualify. All dogs are supervised by certified Doggy Daycamp counselors, and they are sure to be tuckered out at the end of a busy day at camp! Choose from a 1/2 day for $13 or a full day for $23.

For those doggies boarding with us overnight, we now offer a Play and Stay option, which guarantees your best friend a minimum of 4 hours of playtime in camp per day, while resting in one of our spacious, climate-controlled suites at night. For one, all-inclusive price of just $37 per day, Play and Stay is the best option for your pooch to socialize with other dogs; dogs that are busy and active eat and sleep better, and have reduced anxiety.

For more information, visit http://www.bestfriendspetcare.com/ or call us at (586) 792-3000. And don't forget, all new pets that board with us automatically get their first night free!

Dogs and Cocoa Mulch...be careful!

It's that time of year, Spring has sprung and we are out in our gardens doing our best to make them look lovely and inviting. We use different plants, shrubs, containers and mulch to make all our hard work a success. However the type of mulch you use in your garden very well may look great but without knowing it, you could be putting your pets' health at risk.

Cocoa mulch is a wonderful looking and smelling mulch BUT it contains an ingredient called "theobromine" which is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate. It really attracts dogs, and they can ingest this mulch and die.


Theobromine is in all chocolate, especially dark or baker's chocolate which is toxic to dogs. Cocoa bean shells contain potentially toxic quantities of theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. A dog that ingests a lethal quantity of garden mulch made from cacao bean shells can develop severe convulsions and died later.

Cocoa mulch is sold in most garden supply stores such as Home Depot therefore you are not limited to this type of mulch. Home Depot and other garden supply stores have so many choices of mulch that finding a pet friendly one should be very easy...and just as simple to make your garden beautiful!

Pet of the Week

Meet "Lucky" one of the many daycampers here at Best Friends Pet Care.

Lucky is a 1 1/2 yr old Black Labrador. He has been coming to daycamp since March 2009. Lucky and his owners consider Best Friends his home away from home. This is where Lucky comes to use up his puppy energy so mom and dad can have a break.

Here are a few things to know about Lucky:

Favorite foods: turkey, chicken, jumbones and biscuits. 

Favorite toys: kong ball, frisbes (before chewing them up), the garden hose and all yard decorations

Favorite hobbies: barking at and chasing birds; digging holes, stealing socks, gloves and anything else (and Lucky is very good at this after all the practise he's had)

Fun Story...as told by Lucky "Last summer I got into trouble when I jumped onto the glass patio table top. When I was done being scolded I chewed the air conditioning unit wires and jumped on top of it. Luckily it wasn't turned on. After all...my name is Lucky"

Lucky says the staff at Best Friends spoil him - "I love daycamp, I come 2-3 times a week. I get to run around and chase all my friends. And I get to meet new friends too." "Once, I stayed during Thanksgiving and the staff were so cool, they fed me and all the other guests turkey dinner with carrots, but I didn't eat my carrots. I did chew them up but left them on the floor...ya know, I like to share and I felt bad that the staff weren't eating when we were eating. I wanted to be nice. They all work so hard and play with me....I have even chewed a toy and they didn't scold me....so cool" 

Best Friends Pet Care helps clean up the oil spill!

I’m sure you have all heard of the massive oil spill in the gulf. Clean up efforts are underway, and we actually have an amazing opportunity to help! A non profit organization called Matter of Trust is collecting donations of clean hair and fur of all kinds to clean up the oil in the ocean. Hair is hydrophobic which means it repels water, it is also great for absorbing oil (greasy hair means that hair collects oil). So Matter of Trust has volunteers making devices called hair mats and hair booms out of recycled hair and nylons- which are then placed in the water to soak up the oil. After this big spill, hair is in high demand- and we can help!


So we here at Best Friends Pet Care are recycling our dogs hair to help in the gulf. If your dog is in need of a trim and you'd like to help the crisis in the gulf, please schedule a haircut or shedicure grooming appointment today.

Best Friends Pet Care helps clean up the oil spill!

I’m sure you have all heard of the massive oil spill in the gulf. Clean up efforts are underway, and we actually have an amazing opportunity to help! A non profit organization called Matter of Trust is collecting donations of clean hair and fur of all kinds to clean up the oil in the ocean. Hair is hydrophobic which means it repels water, it is also great for absorbing oil (greasy hair means that hair collects oil). So Matter of Trust has volunteers making devices called hair mats and hair booms out of recycled hair and nylons- which are then placed in the water to soak up the oil. After this big spill, hair is in high demand- and we can help!

So we here at Best Friends Pet Care are recycling our dogs hair to help in the gulf. If you'd like to help the crisis in the gulf schedule a haircut or shedicure grooming appointment today.

Indie doesn't look happy to be bathed but inside he's screaming for joy!

The Favorite Orange Toy

Best Friends Pet Care Doggie DayCampers have made it very apparant that their favorite toy is the coveted orange octopus.

Each day the group of campers look through the toy box for this octopus while all the other toys sit quietly waiting for their turn to play.

 

This orange octopus looks a little like an alien, but these dogs aren't afraid of this creature from the deep. They toss it; throw it; chew it and make it squeak until it is dripping in doggy drool.

The Ruffians Octopus is made by JW Pet and is made of natural rubber and has a bouncy, squeaky quality that every dog loves. The staff at Best Friends saves this little octopus every night giving it a bath and putting it back in the toy bin to await the DayCampers!

Dog Logic

• The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tounge.   
• There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.    
• A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.                            
• The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.                                        
• Dogs love their friends and bite their enemies, quite unlike people, who are incapable of pure love and always have to mix love and hate.
• Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog.
• My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3 a can.  That's almost $21 in dog money.
• Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.
• If you pick up a starving dog and make him properous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference between a dog and a man.
• Dogs are not our whole lives but they make our lives whole.
• If you think dogs cannot count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then give him only two of them.

Puppy Socialization Classes

Best Friends offers a FREE puppy socialization hour every Wednesday at 1pm. You come with your new puppy to watch and enjoy the puppies play. This is open to any puppy under the age of 6 months old and is current on their vaccinations.

What is socialization?

Introducing and familiarizing a canine to new experiences - including people, places, objects, other animals - in ways that help the dog learn how to respond to and interact with these experiences appropriately and without fear.

Why is it important?

From 8 to 12 weeks of age, puppies go through a fear imprinting stage. During this time, it is crucial to carefully introduce a pup to a variety of stimuli every day, and to ensure that the experiences are positive. This is also a good time to start training the pup in basic behaviors.

These socialization efforts make the difference in the dog's outlook on life. Instead of reacting fearfully to new experiences, the dog is comfortable when encountering new things, animals and people. This helps the dog and everyone else, since the most common cause of unprovoked dog aggression is lack of proper socialization.

Socialization does not end at puppyhood. While the foundation for good behavior is laid during the first few months, good owners encourage and reinforce social skills and responsiveness to commands throughout the dog's life.

So once your puppy is over the age of 6 months and is spayed/neutered bring him/her back for daycamp.

Bully For You is visiting Best Friends

Best Friends welcomes Bully For You Bulldog Rescue this Sunday, April 25th for their Spring Fling.

Bully for You is a not for profit rescue organization based out of Southeastern Michigan who is dedicated to the safety and protection of the English bulldog breed.

We hope to have great fun and meet lots of new friends.

Best Friends and Bully for You Rescue Talk to Channel Four News

Cathy Lee, Center Manager of Best Friends Pet Care, and Jennifer Dolenic, who runs Bully For You a English Bulldog Rescue, talked to Channel Four about rescue scams.  Click here for the article.  Cathy and Jennifer warn owners of potential pet related scams when they go to adopt a new pet.

Dog Breeds That Didn't Make It!

Collie + Lhasa Apso =  Collapso,

a dog that folds up for easy transport!

Spitz + Chow Chow = Spitz-Chow,

a dog that throws up a lot

Bloodhound + Borzoi = Bloody Bore,

a very boring dog

Pointer + Setter = Poinsetter,

a traditional Christmas pet

Kerry Blue Terrier + Skye Terrier = Blue Skye,

a pet for visionaries

Great Pyrenees + Dachshund = Pyradachs,

a puzzling breed

Pekingese + Lhasa Apso = Peekasso,

an abstract dog

Irish Water Spaniel + English Setter = Irish Springer,

a dog fresh and clean as a whistle

Labrador Retriever + Curly Coated Retriever = Lab Coat Retriever,

the choice of research scientists

Newfoundland + Basset Hound = Newfound Asset Hound,

a dog for financial advisors

Terrier + Bulldog = Terribull,

a dog that makes awful mistakes

Bloodhound + Labrador = Blabador,

a dog that barks incessantly

Collie + Malamute = Commute,

a dog that travels to work

Malamute + Pointer = Moot Point,

owned by...Oh well, it doesn't matter anyway

Cat Rules

Here are a few simples rules for all cats to follow:

1. Bathrooms: 
1. Always accompany guests to the bathroom.  It is not necessary to do anything.  Just sit and stare.
2. Doors: 
1. Do not allow any closed doors in any room. To get the door open, stand on hind legs and hammer with forepaws.  Once door is open, it is not necessary to use it. 
2. After you have ordered an "outside" door opened, stand halfway in and out and think about several things.  This is particularly important during very cold weather, rain, snow, or mosquito season.
3. Chairs and Rugs:
1. If you have to throw up, get to a chair quickly.  If you cannot manage in time, get to an Oriental rug.  If there is no Oriental rug, shag is good.  When throwing up on the carpet, amke sure you back up so it is as long as a human's bare foot.
4. Hampering:  If one of your humans is engaged in some activity and the other is idle, stay with the busy one.  This is called "helping", otherwise known as "hampering."  Here are rules for hampering:
1. When supervising cooking, sit just behind the left heel of the cook.  You cannot be seen and thereby stand a better chance of being stepped on and then picked up and comforted. 
2. For book readers, get in close under the chin, between the eyes and book, unless you can lie across the book itself.
3. For paperwork, lie on the work in the most appropriate manner so as to obscure as much of the owrk as possible.  Pretend to doze, but every so often reach out and slap teh pencil or pen.
4. When a human is holding the newspaper in front of him or her, be sure to jump on the back of the paper.  Humans love to jump!
5. When a human is working on the computer, jump on the desk, walk across the keyboard, bat at the mouse pointer on the screen and then lay in the human's lap across arms, hampering typing in the process.
5. Walking:
1. As often as possible, dart quickly and as close as possible in front of the human, especially on stairs, when they have something in their arms, in the dark, and  when they first get up in the morning.  This will help their coordination skills.
6. Bedtime:
1. Always sleep on the human at night so he or she cannot move around.
7. Litterbox:
1. After using the litterbox kick as much litter out of the box as possible.  Humans love the feel of kitty litter between their toes.
8. Hiding:
1. Every now and then, hide in a place where the humans cannot find you.  Do not come out for three to four hours under any circumstances.  This will cause the humans to panic (which they love) thinking that you have run away or are lost.  Once you do come out, the humans will shower you with kisses and you will most likely get a treat.
9. One Last Thought:
1. Whenever possible, get close to a human, especially their face, turn around, and present your butt to them.  Humans love this, so do it often...and don't forget guests!

Casey follows the rule number 4-5, and helps out at the front desk!

Urgent Notice: Potential Danger of Dog Hair...

In a press release today, the National Institute of Health has announced the discovery of a potentally dangerous substance in the hair of dogs.  The substance, called Amobacter Caninii has been linked with the following symptoms in females.  Reluctance to cook, clean or do housework, wear make-up, good clothes or high heels.  Other symptoms include reluctance to spend money on home and car repairs until after "Baby" has new collars, leashes, beds, treats, food, blankets or toys.

Ambobacter Caninii usually results in long hours away from home and exhaustion which may lead to a loss of physical contact with other humans (especially husbands and boyfriends).  Ambobacter Caninii is thought to be addictive, driving the need for additional sources- this may lead to a "pack mentality" or like the potato chip commercial, "you can't have just one."  Beware! If you come in contact with a female human infected by this substance, be prepared to talk about dogs for hours.  The final symptom is a lack of motivation to seek a cure.  Full recovery is rare and if cured, serious side effects may result.

This person infected with "Amobacter Caninii" gives up her treat to pets.

Happy April Fool's Day!

Coyote Attack in Harrison Township

On Monday March 8th Snickers, an 11 year old terrier mix, was attacked by three coyotes in his own back yard.  Snickers survived the attack but was left with 16 puncture wounds, some of which required stitches.  After the attack three coyotes were seen outside the fenced yard.  Even though there is a history of digging under the fence there were no holes under the fence.  Thus Snicker's mom suspects the coyotes jumped the fence into her backyard.

While there have been no reports of other attacks in the Harrison Township, there have been numerous sightings.  Locals in Eastpointe, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, and Grosse Pointe areas have reported coyote attacks on pets. 

Coyotes sightings have gone up as people move further into the country and the coyotes shift their hunting grounds.  What does this mean for pet owners?  First off owners need to be aware that wildlife attacks can happen even in an urban environment.  Small to medium sized dogs are the most at risk and should be supervised during dusk and nighttime hours when coyotes are especially active.  Coyotes are pack hunters and if they are in large enough numbers may attack larger dogs as well.  If owners see a coyote in their neighborhood they should call local authorities so the pack movement and activity level in residental areas can be tracked.

This story was first reported n the C&G Newspaper and can be seen here.

Doggie Day Camp St Patrick's Day Party

The pups in Doggie Day Care had a blast on Wednesday!  The weather was great so all the campers got to play outside in the greening grass.  As a camp activity the campers got to make a craft project to take home to Mom and Dad in green of course!

Amber, our favorite red head, showing off how good she looks in green!

Best Friends is Spotlighted at the NJ Super Pet Expo

At the New Jersey Super Pet Expo Danielle, the manager from our Windsor, NJ location was interviewed for the "How Cute is Your Pet" segment of The Cute Pet Gazette. Check out her interview about Best Friends Pet Care.

DDC St Patrick's Day Party!

Call Best Friends to sign up for Doggie Day Camp today 586-792-3000!

Detroit Kennel Club 2010 Dog Show and Obedience Trials

This weekend the Detroit Kennel Club is holding their annual Benched Dog Shows and Obedience Trials at Cobo Hall and Convention Center. At most dog shows after an exhibitor shows their dog they may leave, at a bench show the exhibitors are there all day even if their show is over. For the spectator this means if you get there late your breed will still be there regardless of when they entered the ring. This is a great way to meet a variety of breeds and meet their breeders as well.

The DKC show also hosts a variety of vendors and well as dog related organizations. There will be Rally and Obedience Trials as well as an Agility Trial by Sportsmen's Dog Training Club of Detroit. Demonstrations include Search and Rescue, Leader Dog for the Blind, Border Collies herding ducks, Terrier Races, Pet First Aid Demonstrations, and much more. You will also find vendors selling dog related products such as Dog Wise a book store devoted to dogs. There are many more non profit organizations, vendors, and demonstrations.

Congratulations to our Rally Obedience Students!

This past weekend, February 26 through 28, our Rally Obedience students entered and placed at the Sportmen's Dog Training Club of Detroit's Spring Obedience and Rally Trial. Monika with George, a Dalmatian, finished their second leg of the Rally Novice title with an 86 out of 100. Cathryn and Locke finished with a perfect score of 100, took second place, and earned their Rally Novice title. On Saturday Kirstin and Ammo, a Labrador Retriever, got a score of 96 and also earned their Novice title.

It was a great show, with lots of competitors, and Congratulations to all!

February is Pet Dental Month!

Majority of pet owners don't realize the importance of dental care and how it effects the pet's overall health. Periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed disease in cats and dogs over three years of age. During February the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Veterinary Dental Association (AVDS) join together to promote dental health and remind owners of the dangers of poor dental health.


Just like people food particles and bacteria can build up leading to plaque and tarter, leading to gingivitis and severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums, and even tooth lose. If periodontal disease gets worse bacteria from the teeth can travel into the bloodstream and may result damage to the organs. To help prevent such problems the AVDS recommend owners follow the following guidelines:

1. Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam. During your pet's yearly physical your pet should have a dental exam including the gums. Your veterinarian may recommend a dental cleaning if plaque and tartar are present.

2. Start a home dental care routine. Your veterinarian can start you on your pet on a personalized dental care regimen at home. There are supplements available, as well as special diets, treats, tooth paste, and brushes specially designed and flavored for pets.

3. Monitor your pet's oral health by scheduling checkups with your veterinarian. These checkups may include yearly cleanings by your pet's veterinarian.

By following theses easy steps pet owners can help prevent periodontal disease not just in February but all year long. For more information visit www.petdental.com.

Monday Day Camp Enjoys Their Snowday!

The dogs of Doggie Day Camp enjoyed their snow day on Monday! Their parents braved the snow storm and the six inches already on the ground to get here. So we went outside and had a few snowball catching contests, finding toys in the snow, and made doggie angels!

Katie (left), Roscoe (center), and Locke (left) run through the snow.

Locke ready for that incoming snowball shows off his pearly whites.

Ozzie was a true snowpuppy! He'd roll, lay down, play bow in the snow and loved to catch snowballs!

Maggie proves that girls can catch a snowballs too!

How Many Dogs Does It Take To Change A Lightbulb?

Dachshund: You know I cannot reach that lamp!

Rottweiler: Make me.

Jack Russell Terrier: I'll just pop it out while I am bouncing off the furniture.

Armani getting ready to leap from wall to wall!

Boxer: Who cares? I can still play with my squeaky toys in the dark.

Labrador Retriever: oh, me, me!! Pleeeeeaaaassse let me change the bulb! Can I? Can I?Huh? Huh? Huh? Can I? Please, please, please!!

German Shepherd Dog: I'll change it as soon as I've led these people from the dark, check to make sure I haven't missed any, and make just one more perimeter patrol to see that no one has tried to take advantage of the situation.

Golden Retriever: The sun is shining, the day is young, we've got our whole lives ahead of us, and you're inside worrying about a stupid burned out bulb?

Autumn playing outside, not worried about any burnt out light bulbs!

Old English Sheepdog: Light bulb? I'm sorry, but I don't see a light bulb.

Cocker Spaniel: Why change it? It'll just burn out again later.

Grey Hound: It's not moving, I can't chase it, I am going back to bed.

Australian Shepherd: First I'll put all the light bulbs in a little circle...

Border Collie: Just one. And then I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code.

Poodle: I'll just bat my eyes at the border collie and he'll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house my nails will be dry.

Rev is warming up for some heavy duty electrical work!

Valentine Day Retail Sale

Looking for something special for your furry Valentine this year? Swing by Best Friends Pet Care and get 50% off any red or pink toys now until Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day Grooming For Your Sweetheart

This year for Valentine's Day sign up your four legged sweetheart for a grooming! Our experienced groomers will pamper your pet with a special bubble bath, a pedicure, and a holiday bow or bandanna. If your pet suffers from dry, itchy winter skin add on our special re-moisture therapy bath to re-hydrate your pet's skin. Our groomers also offer such services as Nail Grinding, Brushing Teeth, Medicated, and Whitening and Brightening Shampoo.

Here is a picture of Weezey before (above) and after (below) his spa day!

Call Best Friends today to schedule your appointment at 586-792-3000!

Canine Good Citizen Testing

Best Friends Pet Care offers the AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing. The AKC designed the CGC to reward responsible dog owners who train their dogs to have good manners at home and in the community. The CGC test requirements are a good foundation to other dog related sports and some apartments/condos are requiring CGC training and testing for their canine residents. Most therapy dog organizations require this test before official therapy dog testing begins.

The testing has be done by an official AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Barb at Best Friends Pet Care became an official evaluator in 2009 and offers testing by appointment and at special event days. If interested give us a call at 586-792-3000.

AKC CGC Responsible Dog Owner's Pledge
I will be responsible for my dog's health needs.
I will be responsible for my dog's safety.
I will not allow my dog to infringe on the rights of others.
I will be responsible for my dog's quality of life.

AKC Canine Good Citizen Test
1. Accepting a Friendly Stranger
2. Sitting politely for petting
3. Appearance and Grooming
4. Out for a walk (walking loose lead)
5. Walking through a crowd
6. Sit and down on command and Staying in place
7. Coming when called
8. Reaction to another dog
9. Reaction to distraction
10. Supervised separation

Equipment
For the CGC test you will need to bring your dog's brush or comb, a buckle or slip collar.

Genes and Coat Types

There are seven types of coat types found in purebred dogs and the US National Institutes of Health found three variations of genes that control all seven. The University of Utah, where the study took place, found that 95% of the breeds they studied had variations of these genes.

If a dog has variants of all three the dog will have furnishings, such as mustaches, bushy eye brows, and curly hair such as the Bichon Frise and Portuguese Water Dogs. Below Atos, a Belgian Laekenois, has a rough coat.

Dogs with the ancestral forms of the genes will have short hair like the Basset Hound. Satchel (pictured below) is a mixed breed. Her parents passed on the simple forms of the genes giving her a short, smooth coat.

There are only a few breeds, including the Afghan Hound, that don't have coats that are influenced by these genes at all. Roxy, a Yorkshire Terrier, has a smooth, long coat. Her coat is much smoother and finer than that of the Afghan Hound.