Pet Dreamland

Do you have a dog with a known history of trauma? Does your dog have behavioral issues or signs of psychological/emotional distress? They could be suffering from Canine Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). The symptoms of PTSD in dogs are similar to those in humans and include: • Chronic anxiety • Hypervigilance • Avoidance of certain people, places, or situations • Sleep disturbances • Fear of being alone • Decreased interest in a favorite activity • Aggression Because these symptoms can be seen with a number of psychological conditions, making a diagnosis isn't always easy. Development of these symptoms following a known traumatic event can help your vet in reaching a diagnosis of C-PTSD. Some of the more common causes of C-PTSD include: • Military or police work • Being used as a bait or fighting dog • Being raised in a puppy mill • Severe abuse • Life as a stray following abandonment • Natural disaster (flood, fire, earthquake, tornado, explosion) • Attacked by another dogs (or animals) • ... the list goes on! If you think your dog may be suffering from C-PTSD, it's important to consult your veterinarian, and not just a dog trainer. Dogs with C-PTSD often require a wide range of behavioral therapies, medications, as well as lifestyle and environment modifications. No two cases are the same, so your vet will work with you to tailor a plan to meet the needs of your specific dog. There is one need that all dogs suffering from C-PTSD do have in common though, and that is: Patience. Even if the traumatic event was short, I can ensure you that the recovery won't be. It might be something you have to manage for the rest of their lives. In these cases, it's important to shift your own mindset, and your expectations surrounding what life with a dog would be like. They're not "difficult," they're traumatized, and they deserve a loving home all the same. --- ⬇️ If you found this helpful, please share & follow me on Linkedin. 📝 If you like posts like these, you may also like my newsletter, Sami the Vet. Click the link above to join hundreds of other pet lovers and subscribe!

This past National Adoption Week, our team members, Christina and Heidi, took Abi & Buddy—who had the longest stays at Miami Dade County Animal Services (over one year each 😯)—on an exciting foster adventure! They enjoyed car rides, dining at a dog-friendly restaurant, and even a cozy slumber party. Buddy adored his belly rubs and zoomies after his bath, while Abi loved every moment, from dinner outings to riding the elevator. ❤️ Now at Furry Friends Adoption, Clinic & Ranch in Jupiter, FL, they’re receiving support with training from Dogs Playing for Life and are ready for their loving homes! 🏠 If you’re looking to adopt, reach out to Furry Friends Adoption, Clinic & Ranch for more info.

🌈 What colors can dogs see? 🌈 Dogs have fewer and different types of cones in their eyes than humans do, meaning they don't see as many colors or perceive colors as vibrantly as we do. Check out our blog to find out which colors dogs can see!

🚨🐾 Attention Dog Owners! 🐾🚨 Did you know that blue-green algae can be hazardous for pets? Found in stagnant water like ponds and lakes, this toxic algae can cause severe health issues and even be fatal. Spread the word and help protect our beloved pets! 🐶💙 #PetSafety #DogCare #BlueGreenAlgae #ProtectOurPets

Shelter pets need you NOW! 📣 🐾 Our nation's animal shelters are FULL, which means the lives of highly adoptable pets are on the line. Beginning Monday, July 8, BISSELL Pet Foundation is sponsoring reduced adoption fees of $50 or less at 390+ animal welfare organizations in 44 states during our Summer National Empty the Shelters event. Every single adoption saves a life and creates space to save another. Find a shelter near you: http://spr.ly/60499OKkV