Issue 12 | November/December 2018 | $9.95
Canine Legal
Marijuana Legalization – Does K9 Need to Panic?
Walking Point The Story of a Marine and His Dog
Snapshot
K9 Duke Works the Streets of California
Equipment DOG BEDS Recent, well-publicized sleep studies have drawn attention to the importance of sleep and its effects on people’s health. The impact of sleep is no different for your K9 partner. In a 24-hour day, the average dog spends 12-14 hours sleeping. But your vigilant and active working dog is not average and does not get to enjoy this luxurious sleep schedule. It is essential, therefore, that the dog’s sleep is as restful and restorative as possible. After all, a well-rested dog is an alert dog, which leads to a more productive day for both of you. An investment in the right sleep equipment will help ensure the best health and performance for your K9 partner. The following guide will assist you in identifying the correct bed for your working dog.
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Foam:
Style of Bed:
A good foam mattress cushions your K9’s body and helps relieve joint and muscle pain. Since many breeds of working dogs are prone to genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia, a proactive approach that includes providing a supportive pet bed will help promote their longevity and comfort. Look for CertiPURUS®-certified foam that is rigorously tested to ensure it has been produced without harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, lead, or mercury. Foam cores today provide a variety of options:
Pay attention to your K9’s sleep habits. Does it curl in a tight ball or sprawl out? This is an important factor in choosing the style of your dog’s bed. A sofa-style bed might be great for a sprawler, but a burrower would benefit from a snuggery-style bed where it can nest in private. Observe your K9’s sleep style over the next few days to decide which kind of bed matches its sleep need. Already have a bed for your dog? It may be worth watching your dog sleep to see if it could benefit from a different style. Dog beds have changed greatly in the last few years and are more tailored than ever to helping your K9 get the best rest possible.
■■ Solid-slab cores provide firm body support. ■■ Egg-crate style orthopedic foam features massaging “fingers” and better air flow. ■■ Memory-top foam cores include a layer of dense, soft foam that conforms to your K9’s body shape and relieves pressure points on joints. ■■ Cooling-gel-top foam cores wick heat away from your K9’s body while providing the superior joint support of the memory style foam.
Material: As silly as it may seem, some dogs prefer certain fabrics over others. Short-haired breeds will benefit from a fleece or high-pile fabric option that will provide an extra layer of warmth. Heavy-furred K9s often prefer flat or lightly quilted twill or micro suede sleep surfaces that are less insulating and remain cooler longer. If your K9 runs hot, go for the lighter option. If they run cold, aim for a soft, plush fabric that will help create a nest of their own body heat. Not sure which to get? Find a pet bed company that has a return policy or manufacturer’s warranty that allows you to return it if you or your dog isn’t satisfied with it.
Sizing: One size does not fit all, and just like with human clothes, pet companies have different sizing charts for their beds. Regardless of the listed descriptive size (small, medium, etc.), the dimensions will vary. Measuring your dog will ensure it fits the bed comfortably and give you the confidence to order the bed online without fear of a poor fit. Most pet bed companies recommend measuring your dog from nose tip to tail for length. Then measure from its shoulder blades down to its feet for height. For maximum comfort, add 3-5 inches to each measure. Tip: As you shop, be sure to look at the sleep surface dimensions in addition to the overall bed dimensions. These dimensions can vary by product style and account for other bed features such as bolsters or pillows.
Training: Be aware that while most dogs immediately take to their new sleep accommodations, there may be some acclimation as they adjust to the new feel of their bed. For dogs having difficulty transitioning from the couch or other sleep arrangements, putting a familiar blanket or other soft comfort items on the new bed will help promote their use of it.
Final Thought: A good pet bed is like all other K9 equipment. Investing now in the right fit will ensure the continued comfort and performance of your partner.
Article and photo by FurHavenTM Pet Products furhaven.com
November/December 2018 | 37
Guardian Point is dedicated to providing organizations with the highest quality working dog teams in the world, teams that can operate in any type of situation, in any environment, under any circumstances.
PERFORMANCE WHEN IT COUNTS
ADVANCED CANINE ATHLETIC PROGRAM TRAIN YOUR CANINE FOR PEAK FITNESS
When & Where It’s Convenient for You! From detection, to apprehension and patrolling, the success of the professional K9 rests on their nutrition and conditioning. The Advanced Canine Athletic Program, or ACAP for short, focuses on improving the overall conditioning and effective working pace of the K9. The ACAP was developed by veterinarians, K9 trainers and handlers from law enforcement and elite military special operations units. The ACAP app provides two (Basic and Premium) structured conditioning programs for both Patrol and Detection canines, complete with a daily schedule, videos, instructions, and educational content.
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To support your canine in his training and in the field, we also offer a wide array of tactical and training equipment, accessories and gear.
Try the ACAP free for 7 days! Just search “ACAP” in the App Store or on Google Play. For more information about our equipment, ACAP or other training services, visit our website at guardian-point.com.