| How to Train a Deaf Dog Posted: 16 Jul 2018 01:00 AM PDT Deaf dogs are collared with the myth that they're harder to train. However, all dogs utilize body language and vision when communicating with each other. This means that it's easy for any dog, including a deaf one, to learn hand signals. When training a deaf dog, focus on the keen senses the dog possesses, rather than the one sense that is lacking. Training your deaf dog will build your relationship and help you keep it safe out in the world. EditTraining a Deaf Dog with Hand Signals - Learn hand signals to teach to your dog. When you are trying to train a dog that cannot hear, you will need to use sight to communicate with it. You can create your own hand signs, but it's a good idea to use established dog hand signals instead. In order to teach your dog these hand signals, you will need to learn them yourself.
- You only need to learn a few hand signals at a time. As you progress with training your dog, you can learn new signals and then teach them to your dog.
- Understanding established dog hand signals benefits your dog because many veterinarians, groomers and shelter employees also use them.
- Pick a few hand signals to start with and use consistently. When training your deaf dog to understand hand signals, you should start using a few hand signals for things the dog does every day. An easy way to start is to use the first letter in sign language for everyday activities. For example, make a "w" in sign language before giving the dog water or make the letter "f" before you give the dog food.[1]
- Accompany hand signals with the appropriate voice commands. During obedience lessons, you should still use voice commands with your dog. A deaf dog won't hear the command, but it will respond better because your facial expressions and body language will be more natural and expressive.
- Coordinate facial expressions with the hand signals. Dogs can read human facial expressions, and deaf dogs may rely on these more than hearing dogs. When using hand signals with your dog, use facial expressions to reinforce the message. Smile when they do well, frown or make a sad face when they misbehave, and act excited when they are playing.[2]
- Use positive reinforcement training. When training a deaf dog, you should encourage good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. Reward your dog with a treat, toy, pat on the head, or verbal praise when it does what you ask it to do.
- Withhold those rewards when your dog does something you don't want repeated.
- Limit the length of training sessions. Restrict obedience lessons to about 15 minutes when training deaf dogs. This will keep the sessions fun while not going beyond your dog's attention span.[3]
- However, you want to do these short training sessions often and consistently. Several sessions a day will help your dog learn your commands more quickly and easily.
- If your dog still needs positive reinforcement, consider giving it a pat on the head or some other type of physical affection instead of a treat. After your dog is reliably responding to commands, you should transition from treats to praise to limit your dog's caloric intake.
- Expand your dog's vocabulary. You can teach your dog more than just the signs used for formal commands. After it has mastered some basic commands, continue to expand its vocabulary by making up more signs for everyday items that it uses and activities that it likes to do.
- For example, teach it signals for common objects, such as "toy," and for daily activities, such as "walk."
EditTeaching a Simple Command Like "Sit" - Do your hand signal for "sit." When you believe your dog is poised to sit down, make the hand signal you have chosen for "sit" just prior to it sitting. The initial goal is to have the dog understand the connection between the signal and the action it is doing.[4]
- A common signal to use for sit begins with your right hand down by your side. Gradually bend your arm at the elbow, keeping your fingers straight and lifting your hand up until your fingers touch your right shoulder.
- Waiting for a time when the dog is naturally going to sit allows you to communicate the connection between the signal and the action.
- Give a reward immediately when the dog sits. Reinforce the dog's positive action with a reward and the "yes" sign to show it that it will be rewarded for that action. Keep repeating this until your dog understands the link between "yes" and the reward.[5]
- Once your dog understands the "yes" and reward connection, you can use this knowledge to teach your dog additional hand signals and to reinforce good behaviors.
- Give a reward and the "yes" sign even when you catch your dog naturally performing any desired behavior, such as sitting.
- Transition to just a "yes" signal and no treat. You cannot give your dog a treat every time you ask it to sit forever. You need to transition off the treats once the dog responds to the signal consistently. Begin giving smaller and smaller treats once your dog has reliably responded to your command for several weeks. Then only give a treat every other time it sits for a month. Gradually eliminate the treat altogether over the course of the next month.
- As you eliminate the treats, you can use other forms of positive reinforcement, such as petting or playing with your dog, to praise it for its behavior.
- If your dog stops responding to your commands reliably, you may need to reintroduce treats. This means that it was not ready to do the trick without the treat. However, the dog should get back on track with its training easily and quickly.
EditGetting Your Dog's Attention - Don't startle a deaf dog. When training a deaf dog, you need to be able to get its attention without using sound. It's easy to scare or surprise a deaf dog that is sleeping or doesn't notice you approaching. Be thoughtful when approaching it so that it doesn't get scared and snap at you in fear. Above all, don't touch the dog without being sure that it knows you are there.
- You can gently wake a deaf dog up by placing your hand in front of its nose so it smells your presence. Do this consistently every time you wake your dog up. Give the dog a treat when it wakes up so that it starts to associate waking up with pleasant emotions.
- Use light to get your dog's attention. If your dog is awake but not looking at you, you can use light to signal that you are nearby and you want its attention. Shine a flashlight or laser pointer in your dog's line of sight to get your dog's attention when it's not looking at you.
- You can also flick a light switch on and off to get the dog's attention.
- Try hooking a small flashlight onto the handle of your dog's leash. This will ensure that you have a flashlight to use with your dog when you take it on a walk.
- Make vibrations on the ground to get your dog's attention. If you don't have a light to turn on and off, you can use vibrations to let your dog know you want its attention. Tap your foot or hand on the floor of your home at least away from your dog. The dog will feel the vibrations and know you are approaching.
- If your dog is sleeping, you can gently scratch the floor or some object near the dog so it feels the vibration.
- This trick may not work if you and your dog are on very solid flooring or are outside.
- Put a vibrating collar on the dog. There are specialty collars that send a small vibration to your dog's neck when you hit a button on a remote. These can be used to get your dog's attention when it is not looking at you or is far away.[6]
- This is a different product than an e-collar, which emits a small electrical pulse onto the dog's neck. Do not use e-collars. They are not considered humane, as they can be painful for the dog, easily overused, and can lead to the dog exhibiting aggression or fear.[7]
EditKeeping a Deaf Dog Safe - Consider putting a bell on your deaf dog's collar. While training a deaf dog can increase its safety dramatically, you will still need to do a variety of things to decrease the chance of it getting lost or injured. For instance, while a trained hearing dog can come when called, you will need to track your dog down to get its attention. To make this easier, attach something that will make noise when it moves around, such as a bell.[8]
- While the bell will not irritate a dog that cannot hear it, it will likely irritate you at first. You either need to just get used to the sound of it or only make your dog wear it at certain times, such as when you are taking it outside.
- Keep your dog on leash. Protect your deaf dog's safety by keeping it on a leash during walks and whenever it's in an unfenced area. A deaf dog cannot be called back when it has wandered off, so keeping it on leash is important to protect its safety.[9]
- If you want your dog to be able to explore and play off leash, simply take it to an enclosed area, such as a dog park. However, you should always keep an eye on your dog around the other dogs so that you can intervene if necessary.
- Put an identification tag on the dog's collar that states the dog is deaf. If your dog gets lost, it's important that it can be returned to you. An ID tag will allow anyone who finds your dog to get it back to you. The ID tag should state that the dog is deaf and it should include your name and phone number.
- Make sure that your dog always has its collar with ID on. There is always a chance that it could get out and get lost without a proper ID tag.
- In addition to an ID tag, make sure that your dog is microchipped. Your vet can microchip your dog to make sure that your dog is safely returned to you.
EditThings You'll Need - Rewards, such as treats or toys
- Leash
- Collar with identification tag
- Flash light
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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| How to Read pH Strips Posted: 15 Jul 2018 05:00 PM PDT If you're interested in testing the alkalinity or acidity of a liquid, you can use pH strips to help you determine the pH level. If you've never used a pH strip, though, it might look like just a plain strip of paper, and the colorful chart looks like something you'd see in art class. Luckily, once you understand how the color coding works, reading a pH strip is easy! EditUsing the pH Strips - Make sure your strips test the range you need. The pH scale covers a range of 14 numbers, where 7 is neutral. Lower numbers are more acidic, while higher numbers are more alkaline. Some strips only test a portion of that spectrum, so make sure the strips you buy cover the pH levels you want to test for.[1]
- Read the box to determine how long to leave the strips in. Some test strips only need to be left in the test liquid for about a second, while others need about 20 seconds to produce a reading. Be sure to read the instructions to ensure that your reading will be accurate.[2]
- Dip one end of the test strip in the substance you want to test. You don't need to submerge the whole strip in the test substance. Hold the strip at one end and dip the other end in the liquid, then remove it after the appropriate length of time.[3]
- You can use pH strips to test the pH level of any liquid.
- Compare the color of the strip to the chart provided. Your pH strips should come with a pH color chart. When your test strip has finished reacting, hold it up to the chart and compare the color of the strip to the color chart. When you find the number associated with the color on the strip, you'll have your pH reading.[4]
- Acids are represented by warm colors, such as red and orange, while alkalines are associated with cooler colors, like blue and green.
- Look for a universal chart online if you don't have one. If you lose the chart that comes with your strips, or if your strips didn't come with a chart, you can look online for a universal chart. Even if you can't match your color exactly, you should get a close approximation of the pH level.[5]
EditKnowing What to Test - Test your tap water to make sure it's acid neutral. Water is neutral, meaning it should have a pH balance of 7. Most drinking water falls in the range of 6.5-8.5. Test your drinking water to see if it falls within this range. If it isn't, there may be a contaminant in your water supply.[6]
- Keep your swimming pool balanced by testing the pH levels. A swimming pool should stay at a pH balance of between 7.4 and 7.6. Add a product made with soda ash if the pool is below 7.4 and muriatic acid if it's above 7.6.[7]
- Test the pH levels in your aquarium if you have one. The pH balance in your aquarium is critical to keeping your fish healthy. Since the pH levels of natural waters vary, it makes sense that different fish would have different pH requirements. Make sure you know the best pH range for your fish and test your water to make sure it falls within that range.[8]
- There are a number of products available at pet supply stores to raise or lower the pH level of your fish tank.
- Measure the pH of your saliva to test your oral health. The average pH of saliva is around 6.7, but a normal range is anywhere from 6.2-7.6. If you measure your saliva and it is drastically different, your teeth are at a higher risk for cavities or gingivitis.[9]
- Make sure you don't eat or drink anything for about 30 minutes prior to testing your saliva, as this can throw off the reading.
EditThings You'll Need - Universal pH strip
- pH chart on box
- Something to test
EditSources and Citations EditQuick Summary
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| How to Stop Eczema from Spreading Posted: 15 Jul 2018 09:00 AM PDT Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes rough, bumpy patches on the skin. Although eczema can't be spread from person to person, scratching can spread eczema across your body, and severe scratching may cause a secondary infection that is contagious to others. Prevent severe scratching by nourishing your skin and managing triggers that cause eczema flare-ups. Talk with your doctor about treatments that reduce the itchy feeling that can make your eczema worse. EditStopping the Spread of Eczema across Your Body - Follow a gentle skincare routine. Avoid scrubbing your skin or using harsh cleansers. Wash your skin with mild, unscented cleansers. If you apply sunscreen or makeup, use products that don't contain oil and are labeled "noncomedogenic." Always use cool or warm water to wash your skin.[1]
- Using harsh products or very hot water can dry and irritate your skin. Since you're more likely to scratch the irritated skin, keep the skin moisturized so you don't spread eczema.
- Moisturize itchy skin throughout the day. Wash and bathe with warm, not hot, water. Once you've gently cleaned your skin, pat your skin dry and apply lotion within a few minutes of drying off. Look for moisturizers, creams, or ointments that don't have alcohol, which can dry out your skin. You'll probably want to apply a moisturizer several times throughout the day, even if you apply medicated creams to the skin.[2]
- Use colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is made by finely grinding oats so they dissolve or suspend in water or lotions. Research shows that colloidal oatmeal has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe itchy skin. Rub lotion that has colloidal oatmeal in it over your itchy skin. Or add dried colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath.[3]
- To soothe your skin, you could also use fragrance-free bath oils, baking soda, or vinegar in the bath.
- Press cool compresses against itchy skin. Run cold water in a clean washcloth and wring it out. Lay this cool compress against the itchy patch of skin and hold it there until your skin stops itching. Relieving the itching feeling will keep you from scratching the skin and spreading eczema to other parts of your body.[4]
- Keep your fingernails short. Trim your nails on a regular basis to keep them smooth and short. This way, if you do accidentally scratch, the short nails will do less damage than long fingernails.[5]
- Stay hydrated. It's important to drink water throughout the day so your skin stays hydrated. It's especially important to drink more water if you plan on exercising or sweating. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
- You can also drink herbal teas, milk, and fruit juices.
- Sit outside in the sun for a few minutes every day. Your body gets vitamin D from the sun, which helps combat eczema. While too much sun exposure is bad for your skin, a few minutes of sunshine every day can help clear up your eczema and stop it from spreading.
EditAvoiding Eczema Triggers - Wear soft, breathable fabrics. Tight-fitting clothes can trap heat and moisture, which makes eczema worse. Choose clothing that fits loosely and breathes, such as cotton fabrics. Ensure that the fabric feels soft and comfortable against your skin and avoid scratchy fabrics such as wool. Remember to wash the clothing with unscented laundry detergent.[6]
- If you find that you scratch when you sleep, consider wearing lightweight, comfortable gloves to bed.
- Avoid heavy fragrances. Chemicals and fragrances in harsh laundry detergents, soaps, cleansers, and lotions can all make eczema worse. Wash your skin with fragrance-free cleansers and clean your home with gentle cleaning products that don't have strong fragrances, which could irritate your skin.[7]
- Vacuum and dust at least once a week. If you find that pollen, mold, dust, or animal dander cause your eczema to flare up, remember to dust and vacuum your home at least once a week. You may need to do this more frequently if you have pets. Remember to wash their bedding too.[8]
- Try running an air purifier and humidifier. These will clean the air and add moisture that can make your skin feel less itchy.
- Manage your stress. Research has shown that stress can make your eczema worse, which could make it spread. To reduce your stress, practice several calming therapies. For example, you can:[9]
- Take deep breaths
- Go for a walk
- Take short breaks during the day
- Do something you enjoy
- Meditate
- Avoid tobacco smoke. Studies have linked environmental tobacco smoke with worsening eczema symptoms. If you smoke, try to quit or limit the amount you smoke. You should also avoid smoky places such as bars, restaurants, or clubs if you're experiencing an eczema flare up.[10]
EditGetting Medical Treatment - Manage any food sensitivities. Although research is still being done, some studies suggest that severe eczema can be caused or made worse by food allergies. Food sensitivities are more likely to cause or spread eczema in children, rather than adults. Work with your doctor to identify if you're allergic or sensitive to a type of food. You may need to eliminate one of these from your diet:[11]
- Dairy
- Eggs
- Wheat
- Soy or nuts
- Seafood
- Apply topical corticosteroids. Your doctor will examine your skin to determine how severe the eczema is. They may prescribe a prescription ointment, cream, lotion, or spray. If your eczema is mild, you might be able to buy an over-the-counter corticosteroid such as hydrocortisone. Use the corticosteroid on the irritated skin and then apply a moisturizer on top, since corticosteroids can dry out the skin.[12]
- Follow your doctor's recommendation for using the corticosteroids. In most cases, you'll only need to apply them once a day.
- Take oral antibiotics to stop the spread of infection. If severe scratching has caused a rash that becomes infected, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. These will kill the bacteria that spread the infection, which makes eczema worse. Keep in mind that because of the side effects, the doctor will only prescribe antibiotics if your skin is infected.[13]
- Try ultraviolet (UV) light therapy. If your eczema isn't responding to medication, talk with your doctor or dermatologist about using light therapy. Research shows that UV light can relieve the itching sensation in the short term, but you'll need 2 to 6 treatments a week for 4 weeks to 3 months.[14]
- Each treatment session only lasts a few minutes.
- Although there's no cure for eczema, treatment focuses on relieving itchy skin.
- If your eczema has red streaks or pus, or if you develop a fever, get medical treatment as soon as possible. These things are a sign of a secondary infection.
EditSources and Citations
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