5-year-old Joshua meets Clohey

Going back to school, or going to school for the first time, can be frightening for young students. An elementary school in Forth Worth, Texas used three trained therapy dogs, along with trained staff, to help kids make the transition.

The dogs also help throughout the year, as students can earn special “alone time” with them for good behavior.

The Star-Telegram has the details, plus video.

Puppies may nip (card from Dogstuff)

Tips from the Associated Press. Most of them are common-sense good dog care, but there are some specific techniques for redirecting behavior.

Figurine from Dogstuff

A vet reports that cases are increasing throughout the U.S. Even indoor dogs are at risk from mosquitos, so all dogs should be tested and put on preventive medication.

The student involved in one of the lawsuits leaves school with his service dog, mother and sister

In Illinois, two schools have filed suits challenging the state law that allows service animals in classrooms.

In both cases, boys with autism want to bring their dogs to school with them. The schools are claiming that the dogs are unnecessary, not true service animals, and put other students at risk.

The mothers of both boys say they are prepared to fight as long as necessary to get their sons the help they need.

The park lets dog owners bring their pets on vacation

Check out this post with photos of a 4-acre water park especially for dogs …

Rope knot ball toy from Dogstuff, available in S/M/L

The Houston Chronicle interviews Billy Rafferty, author of a new dog care book, and shares tips on the safest chew toys to give your furry friends.

Sign from Dogstuff

The Miami Herald reports that two Broward County, FL police dogs have received newly-designed bulletproof vests to protect them on the job.

A Cooper City teen researched vests after a police dog was shot and killed last year. He persuaded a vest manufacturer to customize a lightweight one for dogs, and persuaded two law-enforcement support organizations to help pay for the new design.

While bulletproof vests for dogs aren’t new, they are heavy, and dogs often don’t wear them in hot weather. The new, lighter design should help.

Mystery genes: Afghan notecards from Dogstuff

Variations in just three genes explain the length, curliness and growth patterns of dog fur, according to this New York Times story.

For 95% of dogs, that is. For some breeds, like the Afghan, variations in those three genes don’t account for their coats.

Hmmm …