BARK ONCE FOR 1 AND TWICE FOR 2

You've always bragged that your dog was smarter than Lassie. It knows when it is time to wake up and time to eat. Your pooch might even know how to open the cupboard where its food is kept and help itself to a nibble or two. Dogs are very astute in learning our patterns. Slip on a pair of tennis shoes at 6 Am, it must be time for a walk. But now scientists have found that dogs can even count.

Dr. Robert Young at the Pontifical Catholic University in Brazil has found that you better not try to shortchange your pooch when it comes to food. They really do know how many pieces of kibble are placed in their bowls.

Dogs are very astute in learning our patterns.

11 mongrel dogs were shown a specific number of dog treats. The treats were then hidden from the dogs. Some of the dogs had food added to their pile, others had some removed. With some, no changes were made. When the dogs were allowed to see the treats again, yes, they could tell if they had been gypped or rewarded. How? Those dogs with altered food piles would stare at the researchers rather than gobble the goodies down.

How smart is your dog? Smart enough to know that you care for it. Prove to your dog that you do deserve to be the leader of the pack. Take it to the veterinarian at least once yearly for a thorough physical examination. Why? Because it is “Your Pet…Health Matters.”