Triple Lake Ranch Mini Aussies

Tackling Pet Obesity: A Weighty Issue As pet parents, we all love to spoil our furry friends. Whether it's with an extra treat here and there, a generous portion of their favorite food, or less time spent on walks and more on cuddles, we often show our love in ways that may inadvertently contribute to a growing problem - pet obesity. Pet obesity is a serious issue that affects a significant number of pets worldwide. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. These figures are alarming, especially when considering the health risks associated with excess weight in pets, including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and a shortened lifespan. So, how can we tackle this weighty issue? Understanding the Causes Understanding the causes of pet obesity is the first step towards prevention and treatment. The primary cause is overfeeding, particularly high-calorie foods and treats. Lack of exe

  The Controversy Surrounding OFA: A Breeder's Perspective      As a passionate dog owner and experienced breeder, I have always prioritized the health and well-being of the dogs under my care. One aspect of dog breeding that has recently sparked a heated debate is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and its role in assessing canine health. In this article, I will share my personal stance on OFA and explain why I believe that my own testing methods and experience hold more reliability than what OFA offers.   OFA: An Imperfect System      The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is widely regarded as a leading organization that evaluates and certifies canine health, particularly in relation to orthopedic conditions such as hip dysplasia. While OFA has undoubtedly made significant contributions to the field, it is crucial to acknowledge that its assessments are not without flaws.      Unlike genetic testing, which provides more precise and objective results, OFA ev

  The Importance of Microchipping Dogs: A Responsible Pet Owner's Guide As a responsible pet owner and breeder, ensuring the safety and well-being of our dogs is of paramount importance. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your dog is through microchipping. Microchipping is a simple, yet essential procedure that can make a world of difference in reuniting lost pets with their families. In this blog post, we'll explore why microchipping is crucial, and highlight the benefits of using advanced microchips like the Fi Nano, which comes with no registration fee. Microchipping involves the insertion of a small, rice-sized chip under your dog's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be read by a scanner. Should your dog ever get lost, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and rescue organizations can scan the chip to retrieve your contact information and facilitate a quick reunion. Unlike collars and tags that c

Understanding Canine Anxiety As a dedicated dog lover and advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how anxiety can affect our furry friends. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, and it can manifest in various ways, from mild unease to severe panic. Understanding anxiety in dogs is crucial for providing them with the care and support they need to lead happy, healthy lives. Here’s an in-depth look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for anxiety in dogs. What is Anxiety in Dogs? Anxiety in dogs is a feeling of fear, nervousness, or apprehension. It can be a temporary response to a specific situation or a chronic condition affecting a dog’s overall well-being. There are three main types of anxiety seen in dogs: separation anxiety, situational anxiety, and general anxiety. Separation Anxiety : This occurs when a dog becomes anxious when separated from their owner or left alone. It’s one of the most common types of anxiety in dogs. Situational Anxiety : This is triggered by specifi

  A Citizen's Struggle with the Texas Railroad Commission Over an Oil Spill      As a citizen, I never imagined I'd be thrust into a battle for the safety of my family, pets, business, and land against an oil spill disaster. Yet here I am, facing an uphill struggle, not just against the oil company responsible for the spill, but also against the very agency that should be protecting my interests—the Texas Railroad Commission.      It all began with an oil spill on my property, a catastrophe that put everything I hold dear in jeopardy. My initial hope was that the Texas Railroad Commission, the governmental body tasked with regulating the state's oil and gas industry, would take swift and decisive action. Unfortunately, that hope quickly faded.      Despite visible, undeniable contamination and multiple tests confirming levels above state limits, the inspector assigned to my case consistently downplayed the severity of the problem. I was gaslit on numerous occasions, with th

  Navigating Loss: Understanding and  Comforting Our Pets in Times of Grief      In the quiet corners of our homes, where life unfolds in its most authentic form, we share our lives with our pets. They are our companions, our confidants, and our sources of unconditional love. But what happens when the unthinkable occurs, and they lose the person they've formed such a deep bond with?      At Triple Lake Ranch, we are currently navigating this journey with a beloved member of our family who has terminal cancer. His dog, a loyal and loving Toy Aussie named Gemma, is facing the impending loss of her best friend. We also have a puppy parent in our community who is confronting a similar situation. These experiences have led us to explore the impact of death on pets and how we can help them navigate their grief.      Pets, particularly dogs, are incredibly sensitive to changes in their environment and routines. They form deep emotional bonds with their owners, and the loss of an owner can