Ten Ways to Make Your Boston’s Day

In This Chapter

• Giving your Boston treats and toys
• Organizing get-togethers for your dog and his canine friends
• Getting out and exploring with your Boston

What you wouldn’t do for your Boston! Being your best friend, a source of entertainment, and all-around great pet, there’s no doubt that you want to give him the best things in life.

In this chapter, I’ve listed some ways to truly bring a smile to your Boston’s adorable face. Not only are these activities healthy and fun, but they also strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Get the Day Off to a Good Start

A healthy breakfast fuels your Boston’s fun. What better way to make his day than to give him a bowl full of nutritious kibble or wet food? The protein, carbohydrates, and fats give him the energy to patrol the yard, play fetch, and be your little shadow for the whole day.

He also needs a cool drink to wash his kibble down, so provide a clean bowl of chilled water alongside his food bowl. Keep an eye on it all day, too, to be sure that he has fresh water available whenever he wants it. (Chapter Eating Well gives you the scoop on feeding your pup.)

Take a Walk

With his adorable snub-nose mug, your Boston is likely to be the most popular pup in the neighborhood. Another way to make your Boston’s day is to take him on a stroll to visit his human and canine friends around the block.

Get his gear together and prepare to hit the road. Put on a colorful collar with an ID tag, attach a matching leash, and grab some pickup bags and treats for on-the-road cleanup and rewards. Then it’s time to head out!

Stroll to the Park

If you’re lucky enough to have a dog park in your neighborhood, it’s a perfect destination when walking your Boston. Dog parks are generally fenced-in play areas where dog owners let their pets stretch their legs, run free, and romp with their canine friends.

Before you take your pup to a dog park, make sure he’s up to date on all his vaccinations, including rabies and bordetella (kennel cough). Check his ID tag, too, and purchase a new one if any of the information is outdated or unreadable.

Throw a Party

You host parties for yourself or your child, so why not throw a bash for your Boston, too! Consider birthday parties, play dates, holiday parties, and so on as fun excuses for bringing together your friends and their pets.

Give Your Boston a Bone

Most dogs love chew toys like bones, knuckles, Kongs, and other hard-plastic toys. These items, which keep tartar and plaque from forming on his teeth, can be found at your local petspecialty store, and they come in a range of flavors, styles, and sizes. Choose one that’s sized appropriately for your pup — and one that he likes!

Take a Spa Day

Though a deep doggy massage should only be done by a trained professional, you can give your Boston a light rubdown during his bath, while you’re grooming him, or while you’re watching television. Follow these simple steps:

1. Have your dog lay on a soft, firm surface, like a carpeted floor or rug. Starting from his head, gently stroke your fingers down his body to his tail.

2. When your pup begins to relax, rub his cheeks, under his chin, and behind his ears.

3. Move down his neck and shoulders in circular patterns, feeling for any burrs or lumps.

4. Massage his legs and feet, taking a look at his toes and pads.

Bake Your Boston Some Cookies

You can make your Boston’s day by whipping up some homemade treats from scratch. This peanut butter cookie recipe given to me by a friend makes the kitchen smell like you’re baking tempting goodies for humans!

Puppy Peanut-Buttery Cookies

1 to 1 1⁄2 cups flour

3⁄4 cup oatmeal

1⁄4 cup wheat germ

1⁄4 cup crunchy peanut butter

1⁄4 cup vegetable oil

1⁄4 cup honey

1 tsp baking powder

1⁄2 cup water

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Combine all ingredients and mix on low until blended. The batter should be the consistency of human cookie dough.

3. Form into tablespoon-sized balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet 3–4 inches apart.

4. Flatten balls to a 1⁄4-inch thickness using the tines of a fork.

5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Yield: About 20 cookies

Toss a Ball

Most Bostons love to play fetch with a flying disc, tennis ball, or squeaky toy. It’s great exercise for him and quality bonding time for both of you.

When choosing a toy to toss, make sure that it doesn’t have little parts that your Boston may chew off and accidentally swallow. Also make sure the toy is sized appropriately for your dog. A ball that’s too small can be a choking hazard, while a ball that’s too large can be unwieldy for your small dog.

Do Some Homework

If you and your dog are enrolled in puppy kindergarten or basic obedience class, take some time out of your day to practice his commands with him.

Puppy kindergarten, which introduces you to dog-behavior fundamentals, will require you to practice Settle, Sit, and Stay, three basic commands that teach your dog that you are the pack leader. Basic obedience builds on those commands and adds several others, including Leave It and Heel. (Chapter Training and Behavior covers all of these commands.)

Grab some small pieces of cheese or chunks of turkey and go outside on the lawn or driveway to practice what you’ve learned. After 20 minutes a day of practice, you and your Boston will be earning A’s in no time!

Enjoy Each Other’s Company

There’s no better way to make your dog’s day than to spend some quality time together sitting on the porch, under the stars, or in front of a warm fire. It’s good for him — and it’s good for you, too!

by Wendy Bedwell-Wilson

Ten Trivia Tidbits about Bostons

In This Chapter

• Interesting historical facts about Boston Terriers
• The rise and fall — and rise again — of Boston popularity
• Bostons making their mark

Part of the fun of owning a Boston Terrier — or any purebred dog, for that matter — is to acquaint yourself with fascinating facts about the breed.

In this chapter, I list ten little-known bits of trivia about Boston Terriers that you can use to impress friends and family members.

The Dogfather

J.P. Barnard, known as the father of the Boston Terrier, used his dogs Tom and Mike at stud more than any other dogs at that time through his kennels on Myrtle Street in Boston. Many consider Mike to be the first to portray the 20th-century Boston Terrier look. He was the sire (father) of Punch, one of the first Bostons registered by the American Kennel Club.

An American Original

Boston Terriers join the American Water Spaniel, Toy Fox Terrier, and Chesapeake Bay Retriever as one of the few dog breeds native to the United States. Hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, Bostons are such relative newcomers, in fact, that their ancestry can be traced back to the beginning of the breed.

It all started with Hooper’s Judge, a bulldog-terrier blend, imported from England in 1865 by Robert C. Hooper. Judge, with his dark brindle-and-white coat, was bred to Burnett’s Gyp, a stockier, blockier dog. They produced Well’s Eph, who was bred to Tobin’s Kate and resulted in Barnard’s Tom, owned by J.P. Barnard. That dog was considered to be the first true representative of the Boston Terrier breed.

What’s in a Name?

On February 27, 1893, the Boston Terrier was recognized by the AKC. But the breed wasn’t always known by that name. Before 1889, fanciers and breeders of this bulldog-terrier blend referred to their dogs as the “round-headed bulldog,” “Boston bulldog,” “toy bulldog,” and “bullet head.” Fitting names, indeed!

In 1889, a group of 40 breeders led by Charles F. Leland gathered and began to keep breeding records of these bulldog-terrier blends. They called themselves the American Bull Terrier Club and actively sought AKC approval of the breed.

In 1891, the group applied for admission into the AKC stud book. Bulldog and Bull Terrier fanciers, however, lobbied against acceptance of the breed, citing concerns about the inconsistent breeding program and the confusing name “American Bull Terrier.”

After two years of discussions between the AKC committee and the Boston breeders, they decided that only one cross to a Bulldog or a Bull Terrier would be allowed, and that it could only be in the third generation. They also decided that because the dog originated in Boston, he should be called the Boston Terrier.

Manly Moniker

As dapper and well-mannered as any four-legged companion, Boston Terriers have earned the nickname “American Gentleman” for their polite and amiable personalities. With a subdued terrier temperament, most Bostons are alert, loving, intelligent, and devoted: traits embodied by any true “gentleman.”

Top Billing

At the beginning of the 20th century, Boston Terriers’ popularity soared. The Boston Terrier Club of America’s records show that between 1905 and 1935, Bostons held one of the top two spots among the AKC’s registered breeds. Between 1921 and 1934, 90,000 Bostons were listed with the registry.

From 1920 through 1964, Bostons remained among the top-ten most popular dogs registered with the AKC. Today, Bostons still rank relatively high, typically falling within the top-20 registered breeds. They ranked the 15th most popular breed in 2006.

Little Men on Campus

Boston University’s Rhett became the college’s official mascot on November 15, 1922. Named after a character from Gone with the Wind, Rhett attends soccer, basketball, and lacrosse games. He performs on the ice during hockey game intermissions. He even makes special appearances on the BU campus, at area hospitals, and at local schools for holiday events. Rhett has become a national celebrity, being named an All-American mascot in 1996 and placing fourth in the National Mascot Championships in 2002.

Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, boasts three Boston Terrier mascots in its athletic program. Boss the Terrier has entertained Wofford fans since 2001 at football, basketball, and baseball games. Lil’ Ruff, a pint-size version of Boss, entertains kids at sporting events and graces the cover of “Terrier Tales,” a reading program started in 2006 at the Spartanburg County Library. Blitz, a real-live Boston Terrier, was named the official mascot of the Wofford Athletic Department in 2003. Owned by Chris and Jean Williams, Blitz patrols the sidelines at every home football game.

Popular beyond Boston

Understandably, Boston Terriers enjoy a huge popularity in Boston, but not as much as they once did. AKC statistics show a steady decline in Boston registration in the city, from ranking 8th in 2004 to 10th in 2005, and slipping to 11th in 2006.

Other cities, however, have embraced the Boston. Portland, Oregon; Sacramento, California; and Seattle, Washington, for example, welcomed the Boston on their lists of top-ten registered dog breeds in 2006.

The Incredible Shrinking Dog

The Boston Terrier’s breed standard states that the dog should weigh between 10 and 25 pounds. In the early days, however, Bostons weighed anywhere from a petite 7 pounds to a hefty 35 pounds.

After the AKC acknowledged Bostons as an official breed in 1893, breeders and fanciers began to standardize the dog. Its color markings became symmetrical, its “American Gentleman” demeanor was developed, and its body shape evolved from that of a blocky bulldog to a wiry terrier.

State of the Boston

As a testament to the Boston’s popularity in its home state, Massachusetts Boston fanciers started a movement to have the Boston Terrier named the state dog. In 1979, Gov. Edward Joseph King made it official. Boston Terriers now join wild turkeys, the Morgan horse, and the tabby cat as the official dog, bird, horse, and cat of Massachusetts.

Odds ’n’ Ends

Boston Terriers have enjoyed their 15 minutes of fame. Here are some celebrity Bostons and their owners:

- In the original book version of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Toto is believed to be a Yorkshire Terrier, being described as a “little black dog with long silky hair.” Most people recognize Toto as a Cairn Terrier from the 1939 film version. But in later books in the Oz series, Toto transforms into a Boston Terrier.

- Helen Keller’s classmates from Radcliffe College gave her a Boston Terrier named Sir Thomas Belvedere. He became one of her canine companions during her life.

- Badger the Boston Terrier starred in a trilogy of MasterCard commercials in 2004. In the ads, his family accidentally leaves him behind in the Redwoods, but Badger makes it home, encountering various acts of kindness from strangers along the way.

- Hollywood celebrity Joan Rivers shares her life with Lulu, a Boston Terrier. Denise Richards, former Bond girl, also owns two Bostons: Lucy and Stella.

by Wendy Bedwell-Wilson

Caring for the Senior Dog

In This Chapter

• Understanding what it means to own a senior dog
• Identifying age-related health changes
• Keeping your Boston comfortable as he ages
• Coping with the loss of your dog

You and your Boston Terrier have enjoyed a long and fun-filled life together. You watched him mature from puppyhood to adulthood, loving him and training him to be a well-mannered dog. You cared for his every need, from filling his belly to taking him to the veterinarian for regular checkups. In return, he looked up to you as his leader. He has been your best friend.

The time will come when you realize that your Boston isn’t as spry as he once was. He doesn’t dash to the door when visitors come to visit or leap from his bed when you pull out his favorite toy. He’s slowing down and losing the spring in his step. He’s getting old.

As he ages, your Boston will require some special treatment. Though you can’t stop the aging process, you can do some things that make him comfortable through his senior years. The remaining days with your dog can then be filled with fun, love, and caring until the time comes to say goodbye.

For more information about the topics covered in this chapter, pick up Senior Dogs For Dummies by Susan McCullough (Wiley). The book is chockfull of advice to help you care for your aging pet.

Knowing the Signs of Aging

Generally, small dogs live longer than big dogs, and your Boston Terrier is no exception. By the age of 8 years old, your pup has reached his senior years. Though he will likely live until he’s 11 or 12 years old, he will begin to show some signs of aging, including

• A loss of strength and flexibility
• An intolerance of cold and heat
• An increased susceptibility to certain diseases
• A gradual deterioration of organ functions
• A little gray around the edges — just like his pet parents!

Because of his increasing frailty, you need to protect him from environmental stressors, such as allergies and temperature fluctuations. You need to pay greater attention to his health problems, like coughing and weight gain, and take him to the veterinarian more frequently to screen for abnormal body functions. As he ages, you also need to slowly change his diet, provide a comfortable living environment for him, and give him adequate and appropriate exercise.

Warning!

Keep a closer eye on your Boston as the years pass. Watch for signs of disease acquired in old age, including sudden weight loss, appetite loss, diarrhea or vomiting, increased thirst without a change in activity or urination level, excessive fatigue, limited mobility, or coughing or excessive panting. If your Boston exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Age-Related Disorders

As your Boston’s body ages, it begins to break down and show signs of wear and tear. His movements may become more deliberate, he may gain weight, or he may become hard of hearing. You’ll notice subtle changes in your pup’s personality and behavior as his birthdays pass.

Following are some common age-related afflictions that you can look out for as your Boston ages.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes stiffness in the joints, just as it does in humans. Age and wear cause the joints to break down, which can be quite painful when your Boston tries to get up from a nap or walk across the room. As he ages, you may see him walk more slowly or hesitate before he moves. If you suspect arthritis, consult with your veterinarian.

An X-ray of the affected joints will confirm an arthritis diagnosis. Your vet will likely prescribe an anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medication to ease your dog’s stiffness and discomfort. She may also recommend alternative treatments, such as massage, acupuncture, or chiropractic work, to relieve pain or stress. Ask her, too, if dietary supplements will help slow the degenerative process.

Warning!

Be aware that your Boston may be sore when you pick him up. If he yelps, make note of the painful area and select a different area to hold the next time you lift him. Make sure your vet is aware of any yelping because that can signal more serious problems than arthritis or simple aches and pains.

You can change your Boston’s environment to make it more comfortable for him and to ease the pain that arthritis can bring. Buy him a cushy bed that’s soft and supportive, keeping it away from cold drafts to keep his joints elastic. Move his food and water bowls closer to his bed so he doesn’t have to walk as far for food and drink. If you let him on the bed or couch, help him up by providing a ramp or stairs. Do whatever you can to make his life easier.

Warning!

Just because he’s aging, however, doesn’t mean you should stop exercising him. Continue to take your Boston on walks and let him play in the warm sunshine. He may not walk three miles, but moving his body will help him feel better.

Cancer

Just as treatments for human cancer continue to improve, scientists are making advances in treating canine cancer, too. Chemotherapy, radiation, and oncology care can be expensive, but cancer no longer means a death sentence like it once did! Lives are being saved every day, thanks to early detection and therapy.

Cancer can occur at any age, but it frequently presents at an older age. It is one of the most common health problems senior dogs may have. Abnormal cells grow out of control and damage healthy tissue, affecting normal body function. Common canine cancers include tumors of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, mammary glands, bone, lymphoid tissues, blood-forming organs, and mouth, though virtually any site may give rise to tumors.

Every lump and bump does not mean cancer, but it should be evaluated by a veterinarian for proper diagnosis. She will either remove some tissue from the lump with a needle or perform a biopsy to determine whether it is benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If it is malignant, you and your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of treating your dog.

Deafness

Older dogs frequently suffer from impaired hearing. As they get older, the sound receptors in their ears degenerate, causing gradual hearing loss. It may seem like your Boston is ignoring you, but he’s not! It’s likely that he’s a little hard of hearing.

If you suspect that your Boston is losing his hearing, take him to your veterinarian to rule out an ear infection or generalized neurological disease. If he’s otherwise healthy, you can manage his disability by using signal commands instead of verbal commands. You’ll also want to watch him carefully when he’s outside because he won’t be able to hear approaching cars or other dangers.

Warning!

Dogs who are going deaf may be easily startled. Depending on your Boston’s temperament, he may respond aggressively to surprises.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is an abnormal increase in blood sugar levels that is usually caused by an insulin deficiency. Though it is treatable, diabetes can affect your Boston’s health and cause long-term complications if left untreated, including blindness, infections, weight loss, pancreatitis, and death.

The cause of insulin-dependant diabetes is unknown, but many factors contribute to its appearance in dogs. Genes, obesity, infection, and inflammation of the pancreas may all play a role in developing the disease.

Watch your Boston’s food and water intake. Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus include increased appetite and water consumption, increased frequency and volume of urination, and weight loss. If these signs go unnoticed, sudden blindness may occur because of cataract formation, or diabetic ketoacidosis (ketone buildup in the blood) may develop, resulting in lethargy and vomiting.

If your Boston develops insulin-dependant diabetes, your veterinarian will recommend that you adjust his diet to include food that keeps his blood sugar level constant. You may also need to inject insulin under your dog’s skin twice a day. Your veterinarian will develop an individualized plan for you and your dog.

Eye disorders

Older dogs frequently suffer from cataracts, a cloudy white spot, or opacity, on the lens of the eye that interferes with vision. As a cataract forms, it causes lens protein to leak into the eye, which triggers an immune response and inflammation. A veterinary ophthalmologist (eye doctor) can remove the cataract, but most dogs handle gradual vision loss quite well, provided home furnishings are kept stable so they learn how to weave through the room and avoid obstacles.

Nuclear sclerosis, an age-related change in the structure of the lens, also causes a cloudiness of the lens, but it doesn’t affect the vision or produce any inflammation. Your veterinarian can determine whether a cloudy eye is from a cataract or nuclear sclerosis.

Glaucoma, a buildup of pressure inside the eye, also comes with age. An eye with glaucoma is often swollen and enlarged, and looks red and weepy. If left untreated, it can cause blindness by destroying the retina. Several medical treatment options are available. Your veterinarian can recommend the right one for your Boston Terrier.

Tip

If your dog starts to lose his vision, make his treks though your house easier by getting on your knees and making any necessary accommodations. Avoid moving furniture, placing new objects in his path, and leaving doors open. Remove sharp objects or other dangers that can injure him, and put up a baby gate at the top of the stairs to prevent falls.

Warning!

Dogs who are going blind may not appreciate surprises, and as a result, they may respond fearfully or aggressively, depending on their temperament.

Heart problems

Your Boston’s heart pumps blood through four different chambers. It uses valves that open and close to control blood flow through the heart. All these movements create normal heart sounds.

As your dog ages, his heart valves become so worn that they fail to close completely with the beating of the heart. Blood flows backward through the partially closed valve, creating an abnormal heart sound called a heart murmur. Small dogs, like Bostons, frequently suffer from heart murmurs. It doesn’t cause death, but it should be closely monitored by your veterinarian.

Poor dental care can cause some heart murmurs. When a dog’s teeth aren’t brushed and cleaned properly, tartar builds up. Bacteria from the tartar sheds into the bloodstream, and it can attach to the heart valves and cause leaks or murmurs. Good oral hygiene — brushing your dog’s teeth daily, and having a veterinarian check and clean his pearly whites regularly — prevents tartar buildup, which lessens the chances of your senior dog developing a heart murmur. (Jump to Chapter Looking Good for details on how to brush your dog’s teeth.)

Kidney disease

Though the kidneys can be injured at any time in the dog’s life from infection, injury, shock, or an attack of the immune system, geriatric dogs can suffer from chronic kidney disease, which is the gradual deterioration of the kidney function. It is often incurable, but you can manage the disease through veterinary care and diet.

Kidneys eliminate waste products from the dog’s blood stream and regulate the body’s water content. When the kidneys fail, the entire body shuts down, leading to serious illness and death.

If your senior Boston has unusually bad breath, becomes dehydrated, drinks a lot of water, and urinates frequently, he may have kidney disease. Call your veterinarian, who will examine your Boston and perform blood tests to determine whether your dog’s kidneys are functioning properly.

Prescription diets available from your vet will help your dog’s kidneys to perform at their best. Monitor the amount of water your Boston drinks, too. Depending on his activity level, 15-pound dogs require 20 ounces (2 1⁄2 cups) of water per day; 20-pound dogs require 24 ounces (3 cups) of water per day. Call your veterinarian if your Boston is drinking a lot more than that.

Obesity

As dogs age, they become less active and generally require fewer calories than they did as puppies. Their metabolic rate (the speed at which the body burns calories) slows, and if they continue to eat the same amount, they will gain weight.

Weight gain can lead to a host of adverse health effects, including diabetes, susceptibility to infection, shortened life, increased pressure on vital organs and joints, and decreased energy. Obesity also exacerbates problems brought on by arthritis. As your dog ages, you need to keep his weight in check.

To keep off unwanted pounds, follow the same weight-control principles as for all other animals (including humans): Decrease his food intake and increase his exercise. Talk to your veterinarian before changing his diet or taking him for a run. She may recommend a senior diet for your dog that has fewer calories or encourage you to reduce the amount you feed your dog. She will also recommend an appropriate exercise routine.

Urinary incontinence

Older female dogs often develop a loss of voluntary bladder control, or urinary incontinence. As she ages, she loses the ability to hold her urine, so you’ll find puddles in her bed, or you’ll see urine drip from the vulva with her unaware.

Take your Boston to your veterinarian for a complete examination and diagnosis. In some cases, you can manage your dog’s urinary incontinence with oral medication; in others, you’ll need to put some doggy diapers on your Boston to keep the mess under control.

Handling Your Senior Boston with Kid Gloves

When your Boston reaches his golden years, you’ll want to do whatever you can to keep him comfortable. He may not eat as much or play as much as he did when he was a pup, but he still has a lot of love to give. Keeping him comfortable on a cushy bed, taking him for short walks, and visiting your veterinarian will ensure that he’ll be happy and healthy during the sunset of his life.

Veterinary visits

As with elderly people, some senior dogs require more frequent visits to the doctor. New health issues crop up more often, and it’s always better to get a professional opinion, even if it seems like a minor ailment. It could be the beginning of a more serious problem.

When you take your Boston to the veterinarian, load him gently into the car, hooking his harness into the carrier or car seat, and making sure that he’s safe and comfortable. At the office, remember that his hearing and sight won’t be as keen as it once was. Be aware of intimidating dogs who may frighten him.

When your Boston reaches his eighth birthday or so, schedule a veterinary visit for your geriatric dog. Your dog’s doctor will perform some screening exams to check your dog’s bodily functions, to look for signs of disease, and to establish a baseline to measure against as he ages. Tests may include a urinalysis, blood work, and chest X-rays.

If the doctor gives your elderly Boston a clean bill of health, you won’t have to return until the following year (unless you notice something out of the ordinary, of course). But if the veterinarian sees signs of health problems or diagnoses your dog with a particular disease, plan to bring him in more often.

Nutrition

Throughout your Boston’s life, nutrition is a key component in his overall health and vitality. Food provides the carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals that help your dog create enough energy to tackle the world. When your Boston gets older, he doesn’t need as much energy anymore. He’ll require fewer calories to keep him going. Feeding him the same amount of food you did when he was a teenager or adult will cause him to put on unwanted pounds, which could lead to a variety of health issues.

Talk to your veterinarian about what type of diet your Boston should be eating. She’ll most likely recommend one formulated for senior dogs, or one that is lower in calories than an adult diet.

Forgo the treats, too, for more healthy alternatives. Instead of giving her biscuits and goodies from the dog bakery all the time, do so sparingly and intersperse crunchy vegetables among the high-calorie choices. Don’t forget: Treats have calories, too, and they pack on the pounds just like his regular diet!

Tip

Make sure that your Boston drinks plenty of water. If you notice that he’s not drinking enough, add some water to his food bowl, or mix his dry kibble with some canned food. Sometimes older dogs can be fussy about their water bowls, so make sure that your Boston’s bowl is clean and full of fresh water at all times. If you see that your dog isn’t eating or drinking enough, contact your vet.

Exercise

All physically able dogs need exercise, even the older ones. Getting up and moving helps him strengthen and tone his muscles and tendons. It improves cardiac condition and it keeps his digestive tract functioning as it should. It also keeps his weight in check.

Your Boston may not be able to hike five miles like he once did, but he will enjoy a leisurely saunter around the block once a day to keep his mind and body stimulated. Strap on his harness, attach the lead, grab some pickup bags, and stroll to the park, letting him sniff and investigate all along the way. Even on short walks, bring along some water in case he gets thirsty or needs a break.

Tip

As your dog ages, follow his lead when it comes to physical activity. If he wants to lounge around all day, that’s okay! If he wants to play fetch for only 20 minutes, that’s okay! The point is to keep him moving, even if it’s less frequently than before.

Bedding and sleeping area

There’s nothing like a cushy bed, especially if you have stiff joints or aching bones. As your Boston ages, he’ll enjoy a big, comfortable dog bed with a soft blanket and his favorite plush toy. If you can, place a cushion or bed in all the rooms where your Boston relaxes. Make sure that it’s washable, just in case of an accident.

Tip

Because dogs with arthritis may not be able to jump on or off beds and couches like they once did, purchase some soft dog stairs or stack pillows from the floor to the bed or a chair for easy access. Sometimes your Boston would rather cuddle with you than curl up in his own bed!

Grooming

In general, Bostons don’t require too much grooming, and seniors are no exception. With his short coat, he needs daily brushing with a slicker brush to pull away the dead hair and with a bristle brush to make the coat shine. He needs monthly nail trims and baths to make his coat smell fresh. And he needs regular eye and ear checks to inspect for any infections. Maintain a regular dental-cleaning schedule, too, because you want those pearly whites to stay healthy so he can eat!

Grooming time offers a perfect opportunity to look over your Boston’s body for abnormal lumps, growths, or sore spots. As you’re brushing him, feel all over his body and watch how he reacts. You’ll know if something doesn’t seem right.

Bidding Adieu to Your Boston

You’ve raised your Boston since he was a puppy. You housetrained him, cared for him, taught him how to sit, and saw him through good times and bad. You shared adventures and built wonderful memories together. When he was a puppy, you never imagined the time would come to say goodbye. Suddenly, it’s right before you.

One of the hardest things to do is say goodbye to a beloved pet. The thought of losing a companion is very painful, and as your Boston reaches the end of his life, you will have to decide when it’s time to let him to go.

How to know when it’s time

In some cases, it’s easy to know when to let your pet go. If he has a serious medical condition that takes him to emergency room, the decision might be made for you, or if his kidneys fail or he has heart failure, you know it’s time to say goodbye.

Other times, the decision isn’t so easy. It’s really up to you to determine what you can watch your dog endure. Some people can’t stand to see their dog lose his eyesight or his ability to climb a flight of stairs. Others don’t want to see their pet in pain or suffer through a terminal illness, like cancer. At the same time, some pet owners don’t want to let their pet go. They’d rather wait until the dog dies from natural causes. As in life, your Boston will rely on you to make the best choice for him.

If your Boston has lost control of his urinary and bowel functions, refuses to eat, can’t walk, or just seems completely disinterested in his surroundings, think about putting him down. Why let him struggle to cope with everyday life? Discuss the situation with your family, and then consult with your veterinarian for advice. She will evaluate your Boston’s condition and help you make the ultimate decision: whether to euthanize him.

What to expect

Although the decision to put your dog to sleep can take days or months, the act of euthanizing him takes only minutes.

Leaving your pet in your will If you die before your Boston, who will care for him? Believe it or not, many people neglect this detail when they’re preparing their wills, and their beloved pet winds up in an animal shelter. Talk with your family and friends, and decide who will be a suitable caretaker if you pass away before your dog. Perhaps your sister or son is willing to adopt your Boston. Maybe you have a friend who already has a brood of Bostons, and she would be happy to welcome another. After you decide on a person, talk to your lawyer and include your pet in your will. You may also decide to specify that a certain amount of money go to the person caring for your Boston to cover the costs of food, veterinary care, and other petrelated expenses.

At the clinic, you will be shown into an exam room or office-like setting. After you say goodbye and give your Boston one last hug, your veterinarian will inject a large dose of barbiturates into his bloodstream, which causes his brain to stop functioning. He will lose consciousness, his heart will stop beating, and he will stop breathing. Some veterinarians administer a sedative before injecting the barbiturates to calm the dog and reassure the owner that the dog won’t suffer or feel afraid.

Euthanasia is a completely painless procedure. Your pup will drift off into a deep, peaceful sleep before his bodily functions cease. One minute, he’s looking up at you or the vet, and the next minute, he’s gone. He experiences no fear at all.

Talk to your vet about whether she can come to your home to euthanize your Boston. If not, schedule an office appointment early or late in the day to avoid having to face a waiting room full of pets and their parents. Let your vet know your feelings and trepidations about putting your pet to sleep, and she’s likely to make the process as easy as possible for you.

Tip

Some pet owners want to be with their pet during the procedure, and some don’t. No matter what you decide, that choice is yours, and it will be the right one for you. Either way, your veterinarian will handle your dog humanely and with care.

Remember

You will feel the loss of your beloved pet, but he will be set free from any suffering that he may be enduring. Sometimes, euthanasia is the only thing you can do to alleviate the pain from a major illnesses or trauma. If your veterinarian’s prognosis is that your dog will continue to deteriorate, you have little choice.

Remembering your beloved Boston

Before your dog is put to sleep, talk to your veterinarian about what you can do with his remains. Most clinics cremate deceased animals there or at a remote facility. If you want to keep your Boston’s ashes in an urn, or if you’d like to bury him in a petsized coffin, let your vet know. She can make arrangements to accommodate your request.

You’ve likely taken lots of photographs of your Boston throughout his lifetime. As you’re grieving, take them out and look at them. Put them in a photo album, jotting down significant memories or funny stories that pop into your mind. Gathering the keepsakes together helps perpetuate your pup’s memory.

A tribute to cherished pets This lovely poem offers hope for pet lovers who lose their furry friends. Grab a tissue before you read it because this one’s a tear-jerker! Rainbow Bridge Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together. — Author unknown

Talk about your pet with family and loved ones while you’re grieving. Share memories and celebrate the time you all had together. Let the tears flow; don’t be ashamed of your pain. Just because your Boston was a dog doesn’t mean he didn’t significantly affect your life! He was a part of your family, and you have every right to mourn his passing.

Some people advocate rushing out and replacing your pup right away. This may or may not be the best decision; only you know whether you’re ready or if you need more time. No matter how many pets you have in your life, each one occupies a special place in your heart.

by Wendy Bedwell-Wilson

First Aid

In This Chapter

• Collecting items to include in your canine first-aid kit
• Handling common first-aid emergencies
• Deciding when to call for help

You can handle some of your Boston Terrier’s medical emergencies; for more serious matters, you’ll need to seek immediate veterinary attention. Used appropriately, first aid can spare your Boston further injury and pain as you transport her to a medical facility. Most importantly, first aid can save your dog’s life.

Your home should have a first-aid kit that contains a variety of commonly used tools and supplies. You should also know how to perform some basic tasks that allow you to stabilize your dog until you can get her to the veterinarian. You can find out more about these essentials in this chapter.

Remember

In addition to having the tools and the knowledge to care for your Boston during her time of need, you also need to have ready access to your vet’s office and after-hours emergency numbers. Having these numbers handy will save you time when you need it most.

First-Aid Kit Essentials

Just as you have a human first-aid kit ready for handling common emergencies, you should also have a canine first-aid kit available  for when your Boston cuts herself, gets into a skirmish, or heavenforbid, breaks a bone or goes into shock.

You can find prepackaged first-aid kits at your pet specialty store, or you can gather these items yourself and keep them in a prominently labeled, water-tight container in an accessible spot or alongside your human first-aid kit. Let your family — and your pet sitter — know where it is and what it contains, and make sure everyone knows how to use each item.

Your first-aid kit should include:

• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Small nail clippers for small dogs or cats
• Rectal thermometer
• Tape
• Bandages (butterfly and standard)
• Elastic bandages
• Rolls of gauze
• Gauze pads of varying sizes, including eye pads
• Cotton balls or cotton swabs
• Instant cold compress or plastic bag for ice pack
• Antiseptic cleansing wipes
• Alcohol pads
• Saline eye wash
• Hydrogen peroxide, 3 percent (to disinfect wounds)
• Styptic powder (to stop bleeding)
• Benadryl tablets (to stop an allergic reaction)
• Syrup of ipecac (to induce vomiting)
• Kaopectate tablets or liquid (to treat diarrhea)
• Iodine (to sterilize wounds)
• Antibiotic ointment
• Bottle of water
• Pen and paper
• Old blanket or sheet
• An extra leash and collar
• Pen light
• Pet first-aid book, such as the American Red Cross’s Pet First Aid: Cats and Dogs, by Bobbie Mammato, DVM, MPH (C.V. Mosby)

Tip

Check this kit often and replace supplies that have been used or medications that have expired. If you don’t know how to use these items, enroll in a basic first-aid course. The Red Cross offers a firstaid course for dog owners. If that’s not available in your area, ask your veterinarian for advice.

If you travel with your dog, carry a portable first-aid kit with you in your car or suitcase, as well. Find out more about traveling with your dog in Chapter Traveling with (Or without) Your Boston.

Knowing Normal Vitals

In emergencies, you’ll need to check your Boston’s vital signs, which include her pulse, temperature, mucous membrane color, and breathing rate. In the upcoming sections, I outline how to check these vital signs and what your dog’s normal ranges should be.

Tip

Take time while your Boston is healthy to familiarize yourself with her typical vital signs. Then if an emergency arises, you’ll know how to take her vital signs and how far from the norm they are.

Pulse

A dog’s normal heart rate can range from 60 to 140 beats per minute. The pulse, or heart beat, should be strong and robust. An abnormally low heart rate, which can cause the dog to faint or lose consciousness, should always be evaluated by a veterinarian. An abnormally high heart rate may indicate that your dog is sick, in pain, or under stress, and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Your Boston’s heart rate can be determined by palpating (feeling with your hands and fingers) the lower chest wall behind the shoulder or by feeling the pulse in the femoral artery, which is located high on the inside of each thigh.

Temperature

Normal body temperature for dogs ranges from 100 degrees Fahrenheit to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. It doesn’t begin to reach dangerous levels until it exceeds 106 degrees Fahrenheit. Your dog’s temperature will rise when she has a fever (an increase in body temperature due to disease) or if she is hyperthermic (unable to release heat as fast as she gains it).

Dogs with a fever will try to conserve heat by seeking a warm environment or by sleeping in a curled-up position; dogs who are hyperthermic will pant excessively and seek a cool environment.

You can check your Boston’s temperature by using a small thermometer well lubricated with petroleum jelly and inserted into the rectum for about one minute.

Mucous membrane color

Mucous membranes line the surface of internal body cavities, such as the gums in the mouth. Blood vessels in the mucous membranes give them a pink hue (for resting dogs) or red hue (for active dogs).

When a dog experiences shock, blood loss, or anemia (low red blood cell count), the gums appear pale or white. Gray or blue gums can indicate low blood oxygen levels or other respiratory problems.

Check your dog’s gums periodically to see what her normal coloring is. When you exercise your dog or spend time outdoors, keep an eye on her mucous membrane color to be sure she isn’t overheating or experiencing breathing difficulties.

Breathing rate

The normal breathing rate for a dog at rest can range from 12 breaths per minute up to about 20 breaths per minute. Your dog’s breathing rate indicates how well her respiratory system is functioning.

Pain, fever, fear, excitement, or respiratory disease will cause an increase in her breathing rate. A dog with difficult breathing may refuse to lie down and will often look anxious. If you notice a change in your dog’s normal breathing pattern, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Managing First-Aid Emergencies

If your Boston is in trouble, you’ll need to think and act quickly. A Boston who is bleeding, going into shock, or overheating will rely on you for emergency care. Your prompt, decisive reactions can make the difference between life and death.

You should seek professional help in life-threatening situations like severe injury or trauma. Do everything you can to stabilize the dog by getting her out of danger, and then contact your veterinarian for advice. You could save your Boston’s life.

Tip

In an emergency, always call ahead to describe the nature of the problem and to let the staff know that you’re on your way. You should keep the telephone numbers of your veterinarian, emergency clinic, and poison control center accessible at all times.

Remember

The emergency guidelines in this section should not replace emergency veterinary care. They are intended to assist you in caring for your Boston until you can get her to appropriate emergency care.

Restraining your Boston

An injured Boston is not a happy dog. She’ll often panic, thrash, fight restraints, bite, and claw anyone who touches her. Your loving dog will turn into a frightened beast who isn’t thinking clearly. She only wants to get away from the pain. In an emergency situation, you’ll need to know how to restrain her so you can prevent her from hurting herself further, and so you can protect yourself. A muzzle can help in these situations.

Tip

You can make a muzzle out of pantyhose, a cotton bandage, a necktie, or any 2-foot-long piece of fabric. Here’s what to do:

1. Tie a loose knot in the middle of the fabric, leaving a large loop.

2. Pass the loop over the dog’s muzzle and cinch it tight over the bridge of the dog’s nose.

3. Bring the ends of the fabric under the chin, tie a knot, and draw the ends behind the ears, and tie again.

4. Take one of the ends of the fabric from behind the ears, pass it over the dog’s forehead, and slip it under the loop around the nose. Bring it back over the forehead.

This step ensures that the restraint won’t slip off your Boston’s short snout.

5. Tie the two ends together firmly behind the ears but not so tight that the muzzle interferes with your dog’s breathing.

Tip

If possible, practice muzzling your dog in nonemergency situations so you know what to do if the time comes. She won’t like it, but you don’t want to be fumbling with the fabric during a critical time!

Transporting an injured dog

Your Boston is a small dog, so you’ll likely be able to transport her in your arms, in her kennel, or in a sturdy container, like a laundry basket or a cardboard box.

Practice by picking her up and rolling her onto her back so her belly is up and her face is looking at yours. Cradle her in your arms, supporting her hips with your hand and her head in your forearm. Wrap her gently in a towel or blanket. If you need to put her in a box, pick her up and carefully place her in a sturdy box lined with an old blanket or towel.

Administering artificial respiration

If your dog isn’t breathing, you must perform mouth-to-nose artificial respiration. Take a deep breath and follow these steps:

1. Lay your Boston on her right side and clear any obstructions from her mouth. Gently pull her tongue out to the side of her mouth so her airway isn’t blocked.

2. Clasp both hands around the dog’s muzzle, leaving her mouth closed yet allowing access to her nostrils.

3. Extend the dog’s head (stretch her head and neck forward from the body), inhale, and exhale gently into your Boston’s nostrils, making an airtight seal between your lips and your hands.

Make sure that the air doesn’t leak out and that her chest rises and falls as you exhale.

4. Repeat every five to six seconds. Continue this process until the dog breathes on her own or you can get her to a clinic.

Performing heart massage (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be performed if your dog’s heart has stopped beating. The signs of cardiac arrest include

• Unconsciousness
• Stopped breathing
• Stopped heartbeat
• White or blue gums
• Wide dilation of her pupils

When performed properly, CPR can help restore breathing and cardiac function in an emergency situation. Here’s what to do:

1. Lay your dog down on a flat, hard surface that won’t bend when the chest is compressed.

2. Apply pressure with the flat part of your hand directly over the heart area (just behind the front legs in the lower half of the chest) with a force that’s appropriate for your dog, and press firmly at a rate of about 70 times per minute, being careful not to break her ribs.

The compression force should be enough to cause the dog’s chest wall to compress about 50 percent.

3. Release the compression completely for a brief period each time to allow the blood to flow back into the chest.

4. Check the color of the dog’s gums.

If the procedure is producing blood flow, you should see her mucus membrane color turn from white or gray to pink or red. Also check for your dog’s femoral arterial pulse, which is located high on the inside of each thigh.

5. Enlist the help of a second person to perform artificial respiration after every three chest compressions.

6. If the heart hasn’t begun to beat after 5 to 10 minutes, it’s probably not helpful to continue.

In the hospital setting, CPR is rarely performed after 30 minutes.

Common canine emergencies

Not all injuries require veterinary treatment. You can often handle scrapes, superficial wounds, insect bites, and bruises at home. You can observe your dog if she is experiencing mild vomiting and diarrhea, monitoring the situation if it worsens.

Some medical emergencies, however, will require veterinary care. Here, I list common medical emergencies that you can stabilize at home before taking your pet to the emergency veterinary clinic.

Bleeding

Bleeding can occur from just about any injury. How you treat it depends on the wound and its severity.

- A bruise: Apply an ice pack to the area in 15-minute intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) until the swelling subsides.

- Minor cuts and scrapes: Wipe the wound clean with an alcohol pad and apply pressure with a gauze pad until the bleeding stops. Cover the cut with a bandage to keep it clean, changing it as needed.

- Severe wounds: Apply several layers of gauze and bandage snugly, being careful not to secure it too tight. If direct pressure fails to slow the rate of bleeding, you may need to apply a tourniquet. Using a length of gauze or cloth, tie the tourniquet on the limb between the injury and the heart. The tourniquet must be loosened for several minutes approximately every 10 minutes to allow blood flow to the tissue.

Severe wounds should be evaluated by a veterinarian, so as soon as you control the bleeding, call your vet and take your dog to the closest emergency veterinary clinic.

Shock

Shock occurs after a traumatic injury or during a serious, sudden illness like heat stroke or accidental poisoning. It’s characterized by the collapse of the cardiovascular system. Dogs in shock show the following signs:

• They appear weak and listless.
• Their pupils may be dilated.
• Their pulse is weak and rapid.
• Their gums are pale.
• Their skin color is slow to return when pressed with a finger.

Tip

If you suspect your Boston is in shock, treat any visible injuries. Keep her still, bundled in a blanket, and get her to a veterinarian immediately. Shock is life-threatening, and when combined with a traumatic injury, your dog could be in serious danger of dying.

Fractures

Fractures require immediate attention. A dog with a fractured or broken bone will hold its limb in an unnatural position. Sometimes a broken bone is visible through the skin. Muzzle your dog (see the “Restraining your Boston” section earlier in the chapter for the how-to), moving her as little as possible, and place her in a stable box to transport her to the veterinarian. Try to support the broken limb with a rolled-up magazine or cushion, if possible.

Heat stroke

Common in warm climates, dehydration or heat stroke can occur when dogs are overexercised during hot temperatures. It can also occur when dogs are left in cars on warm days or when kennel areas aren’t ventilated properly.

A dog with heat stroke breathes rapidly, has a rapid heartbeat, and has a high body temperature (104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher). Depending on the severity, she may also be in shock. A dangerously overheated dog will likely die without proper veterinary treatment.

Immediately spray your Boston with cool water, and pack ice in the groin and around her head and neck. Wrap the dog in cold, wet towels, and seek professional care immediately.

Warning!

To prevent heat stroke, never leave your Boston alone inside a closed car or in a poorly ventilated kennel on a hot day. Instead, be sure she has fresh air, fresh water, and sufficient shade.

Vomiting and diarrhea

An indicator of problems with your dog’s digestive system, vomiting and diarrhea can be caused by anything from spicy food to poison. Mild cases can be watched; contact a veterinarian if the situation worsens.

Excessive vomiting or diarrhea can cause dehydration, and that can happen quickly in a small dog like your Boston, so make sure she drinks plenty of water. If the condition doesn’t seem severe, feed your dog a bland diet of plain cooked chicken and rice for the first 12 hours. If her condition doesn’t improve, contact your vet.

Insect stings

If you suspect that your Boston has been stung by a bee or a wasp, first determine where the sting happened and remove the stinger by scraping it out or removing it with tweezers. Shave the area if you need to so you can see the sting. Wash the area thoroughly, bathe it with hydrogen peroxide, and watch for swelling.

Animal bites

Play fighting and wrestling with other dogs can sometimes get out of hand, resulting in a small puncture wound or superficial injury. If this happens, simply clean the wound and keep an eye on it. Check with the owner of the other dog to be sure that the dog is vaccinated. Any signs of infection warrant a call to the veterinarian.

Warning!

If your Boston is attacked by a larger dog or an unknown dog, however, call your veterinarian right away. Some bites may require special treatment, like antibiotics. The attack may have caused internal injuries or bleeding that needs to be treated immediately.

Attacks by cats or wild animals also necessitate a call to the vet. Cat bites frequently cause infections, and bites from raccoons or other wild creatures can put your Boston at risk for rabies.

Poisoning

Dogs love to explore and taste just about everything they come across, but sometimes their curiosity gets them into trouble. They may ingest something poisonous that they find in the garage, in the yard, or in the house.

Symptoms of poisoning vary and depend on what substance your Boston ate. Common signs include extreme salivation and drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle tremors. The dog’s eyes may be dilated, or she may suffer seizures. Rat poisons and other oral rodenticides can produce internal bleeding, convulsions, and death if not treated immediately.

Tip

Common household poisons Store these and other common household poisons well out of your Boston’s reach: Antifreeze and other car fluids Bleach and other cleaning fluids Chocolate Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or prescription medications Insecticides and herbicides Rat, roach, or snail poison

If you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous substance, call the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center hotline at 888-426-4435 (you may be charged a $55 consultation fee) and contact your veterinarian immediately. The longer the poison is in her system, the more extensive the damage may be.

by Wendy Bedwell-Wilson