Sydney the Shetland Sheepdog

This is Sydney, a tri-color Sheltie puppy who is a Pawfessionals client in Dallas. 

Shelties are a breed of herding dog that is small to medium sized. They are bred in a variety of colors – sable, tri-color and blue merle.  Their temperament is typically playful, alert, intelligent, affectionate and trainable, which describes Sydney perfectly!

The Sheltie is relatively new, originally bred in the Shetland Islands and first registered in Lerwick in 1908, with the Scottish Shetland Sheepdog Club in 1909 and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911.

First named the Shetland Collie, the breed name was changed due to objections by Collie owners in Scotland. This breed is also nicknamed Lilliputian Colie, Toonie Dog, Peerie Dog, Fairy Dog and Miniature Collie. 

A cross breed of mysterious origins, the Sheltie is rumored to have begun with the Scandinavian Spitz, The King Charles Spaniel and the original Pomeranian, bred with the Scottish Collie.

The original purpose of the breed was for herding and farming, but it has become a wonderful household pet and family dog.

 – Kassira McKee

 For more information on the Shetland Sheepdog, click here.

How and Why Does Your Cat Purr?

We’ve often heard that cats purr because they are happy or contented, but that’s not always the case. 

Cats also purr when stressed, like at the veterinarian’s office or when recovering from an illness or injury.

Purring is produced through intermittent signaling of the laryngeal and diaphragmatic muscles and occurs through inhalation and exhalation. Therefore, purring is a low energy mechanism that stimulates muscles and bones without a lot of energy, which helps a cat conserve energy and heal bones and muscles. 

So, when your cat purrs, he/she may be contented, but may also be healing and communicating.

– Kassira McKee

For more information on purring, click here.

Is Walking Your Dog in the Rain a Good Idea?

Most of us don’t relish walking in the rain if we don’t have to, so why should our dogs feel any different?  

Of course, there are some canine kids that will go outside in any weather, but most dogs like to avoid extreme weather conditions.

The trick is to make the experience as comfortable as possible. In rain and snow, you can start with a doggie coat – one that repels moisture and one that keeps the dog warm in colder weather to prevent hypothermia.

The next step would be to walk your dog under the cover of trees, awnings, indoor-outdoor hallways or any area that may block rain, hail or snow.  You might also consider pet umbrellas that you can attach to your dog’s collar or rain boots, if your dog is willing.

Another suggestion would be for you to carry an extra large umbrella that covers both you and your dog if you walk him/her close to your side. 

Finally, you’ll want to keep some “dog towels” inside the door of your home to dry your dog off as soon as you get inside – not only to keep your floors clean, but to maintain the dryness and warmth of your dog.

– Kassira Mckee

Check out a great article on the subject by clicking here.