By TB Thompson DVM

Most dog lovers dream of having a brave, dignified, and smart dog. You've probably pictured Lassie, Benji, or Otis. You've never once pictured sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner with Grandma and the kids only to look over and see your puppy vigorously humping his stuffed animal toy. Veterinary clients frequently ask, "Why do dogs hump each other/toys/people?”

Animal behaviorists prefer the term “mounting” over humping or hunching, but we all know what it means. A dog jumps up on another dog, person, or inanimate object with his/her front legs and starts pelvic thrusting.

Some people think the behavior is funny while others find it embarrassing or even offensive. Why do dogs engage in this strange habit and should you try to stop them?

Today is Change a Pet’s Life Day! As pet owners we know the incredible impact our dog’s have on our life and it can be easy to overlook the impact that we too have on our pets lives! From rescues, to shelter support, to raising awareness for dog adoption and anxiety you can change not only your pet’s life but the lives of pets all around your community and beyond!!

How can I Change a Pet’s Life?

Adopt A Pet. Pet adoption is a growing need around the world, dog’s are left stranded, alone with nowhere to go and they need a strong loving family to take them in. People are so easily captivated by loving a new puppy that they don’t realize the incredible opportunity waiting for them by adopting a dog who may have never had a second chance without them! ZenCrate supports pet adoption and we hope you do too!

Support Your Local Shelter. Shelters are often over filled, under resourced, and in need of critical help on a daily basis. Call your local shelter today to see how you can help contribute to their efforts by donating funds, volunteering time, or adopting a pet of your own!

Celebrate Your Pet Daily. This is easy! Love and celebrate your pet daily, give them attention, engage in their favorite activity, take them on consistent walks and tell them they are loved. “Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.” -John Grogan

In honor of Change A Pet’s Life Day, we are offering $50 OFF & FREE SHIPPING to customers who share ZenCrate on one of your social media pages!! Click the link on our website to share about us and activate your special offer!!

The loud noises and surprising booms that come through the house can create stress and anxiety for a dog. To best prepare for the upcoming New Year festivities today we'd like to share tips and tricks for helping your dog cope on New Year's Eve.