This page will let you preview the adoption agreement you will sign at time of delivery. Cape Fear Bichon Adoption Agreement and Health Guarantee Purchaser: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ Birth Date: ____________________Sex: F___ M___ Phone #_____________________________ Buyer understands that the puppy/dog is being sold as pet quality. This puppy/dog is guaranteed to be delivered in good physical Health, and up to date on vaccinations at the time of adoption. The adopter has a period of 7 days after placement date or date acquired to have the puppy/dog examined by a veterinarian of his/her choice. If the adopter chooses to not have the puppy/dog examined within the 7 days of date acquired, then he/she accepts the puppy ‘as is’ at the time of placement. The adopter agrees to properly house their new puppy/dog, and to provide proper nutrition, and scheduled vaccinations/worming, and veterinary care, as needed or required by state law. Any evidence that the puppy/dog has been neglected or abused will void this contract. If the purchaser feels he/she can no longer care for this puppy/dog, the breeder should be notified so as to assist in finding the puppy/dog a new suitable home. We have plenty of parents waiting to adopt! This puppy/dog is guaranteed to be free of Genetic Health Disorders within the first 2 years of life if the puppy/dog has not been bred and it is found to have a genetic defect. Defect must be certified by a reputable veterinarian, rendering it to be incapacitated and an unsuitable companion. The adopter agrees to surrender the puppy/dog to the breeder with signed registration papers. Contract is void if owner does not agree to return the puppy/dog. Upon return, the breeder agrees to replace the puppy/dog with one of the same type and sex. Replacement will be a puppy/dog of the breeder’s choice of stock on hand, or expected litters within one year. The Breeder may request a 2nd opinion to verify the said genetic defect prior to agreeing to replacement. All shipping costs and veterinarian expenses incurred are the sole responsibility of the purchaser and are Non-refundable. A diagnosis of coccidiosis, giardia, parasites, ear mites or any other type of bacterial infection does not render the puppy/dog incapacitated or unsuitable. Guarantee does not cover previously stated conditions or non-life threatening disorders such as hypoglycemia, uneven bites, undescended testicles, cherry eyes, inguinal or umbilical hernias or patellar luxation. Breeder makes no guarantee as to the adult size, color or show quality of puppy. Spaying or Neutering before reaching their full growth potential (before 10 months) will void all health guarantees. Purchaser: ___________________________________________________ Seller: ______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________________Cape Fear Bichons 910-523-2820

This page covers all the aspects of the Bichons. Including their history The Bichon Frise A SIMPLY WONDERFUL DOG ! The bichon frise, a little cotton ball of a pooch, was bred specifically to be a companion canine. As a result, the dog is a super-cute, super-cuddly, super-affectionate little furball. Despite being sharp, active and eager to please, bichon frises require daily exercising, training and patience, especially during housebreaking. The fluffy white doggies known today as bichon frise are Mediterranean in origin. Many centuries ago, dogs called barbets, or water spaniels, were crossed with little white lap dogs, creating four types of "barbichons," a name later cut to bichons. They were Bolognese, Havanese, Maltaise and Teneriffe bichons. The latter, eventually became known as the bichon frise, were developed on the Canary Island of Teneriffe. They probably were first brought there by Spanish sailors. At some point in the 1200s or 1300s, Italian sailors encountered the dogs and brought them to Italy, reintroducing them to the European continent. In the early 1900s, French breeders created a breed standard, which was officially adopted by the Societe Centrale Canine of France on March 5, 1933. The doggies were given one name, bichon frise, which translates to "curly coat." About a year and a half later, these small furballs were accepted into the French Kennel Club's stud book. In 1956, a French family brought their bichon frises with them when they moved to Michigan, and by 1960, two breeders were working to develop the breed in the US. In 1964, The Bichon Frise Club of America was founded. These pooches were allowed to compete with The American Kennel Club in the Miscellaneous class in 1971, and the organization admitted the breed to its roster in 1973 The Bichon Frise (BEE-shon free-ZAY) is also known as Bichon. The plural is Bichons Frises. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION/BREED STANDARD COAT - The Bichon Frise's white double coat is coarse, curly, and non-shedding. Frequent grooming is necessary to remove buildup of fur and dander. 12 – 18 POUNDS AKC BREED CATEGORY / NON-SPORTING GROUP PERSONALITY / GENERAL TEMPERAMENT Bichon Frise have been well-loved for centuries for their playful, friendly nature. The jaunty breed is well-mannered and often loves to show off to anyone who will watch. The curious, cheerful Bichon is easily won over with treats and praise. While uncommon, some Bichon bloodlines exhibit shyness. Early socialization will help raise an outgoing Bichon Frise. FAMILY LIFE Are Bichons Frises Good with Kids? The Bichon Frise often does well with children—as long as the children treat the dog with care and the dog is properly socialized. The breed is sturdier than many small breed dogs and their personality makes them a good choice for families, but rough play should not be allowed to prevent injury to both the dog and child . Are Bichons Frises Good with Other Pets? Bichons Frises are often a good match for households with dogs, cats, and other pets. PROTECTIVE While the Bichon Frise isn't a guard dog, they will offer an alert bark if someone approaches the home. ENERGY LEVELS Bichons Frises have a moderate energy level, but because they are small they tire easily. The 'Bichon Blitz' is a burst of high-energy antics that many Bichons Frises display, sometimes more than once per day—often running around rooms and leaping over furniture with impressive speed and agility. Specific Concerns Can suffer from separation anxiety May be difficult to housebreak Excessive grooming needs Can become territorial REQUIREMENTS Indoor the merry little Bichon Frise is a wonderful indoor companion. They adapt well to apartment living. They are well-behaved when trained, but may be difficult to housebreak. Outdoor Walks and outdoor play are both favorite activities of the Bichon Frise. Bichons are not meant to live outdoors. Not only do they dislike being left alone, their long, high-maintenance coat may get tangled or matted. Exercise While the Bichon Frise has a moderate energy level, they don't require hours of activity to tire. Two walks outdoors—about 30 minutes per day—and indoor play may be all the Bichon needs to be happy. Endurance While energetic, Bichons do not tend to have the stamina for strenuous activity. Activity distance rating Running Miles: While the Bichon Frise is a small breed, if well-conditioned they may have the energy for an easy jog. A healthy adult Bichon Frise may be able to jog a couple of miles. Hiking Miles: Adult Bichons Frises may be able to work up to five-mile hike, if in good health and given plenty of breaks along the way. They are hearty, but they are small—climbing may be difficult for their small legs. Food Bichons Frises are food motivated and respond well to treats during training. Our general recommendation for how much high-quality homemade dog food (based on average weight and activity level) to feed is ¾ to 1 cup per day. This amount should be split between two meals. The Bichon Frise is not more likely to guard food more than other breeds, but children should never be allowed to touch or remove food while any dog is eating. Alone Time Bichons are—and always have been—companion dogs. They desire time with their family, and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They can stay home alone for three to four hours at a time, but they may need to be crate trained to prevent destructive behaviors. HEALTH AND GROOMING LIFE EXPECTANCY 14 - 15 years GROOMING While Bichons Frises do not shed, their double coat grows continually and needs frequent brushing, trimming, grooming, and bathing to remove old hair and prevent matting. Bichons need to visit the groomer every four to eight weeks, and should be brushed weekly at the minimum, daily is better. Trimming nails regularly will help prevent painful splitting, cracking, or a broken nail. Bichons may be prone to ear infections; regular ear cleaning can help prevent them. COMMON HEALTH ISSUES Bichon Frise can be prone to breed-specific health concerns, including: Dental concerns Patellar luxation Heart disease Cataracts and eye disease Skin allergies You can minimize serious health concerns in a Bichon Frise by purchasing him from a reputable breeder who engages in responsible breeding practices, and through screening for common diseases and conditions. TRAINABILITY BASICS The smart Bichon Frise learns basic obedience with ease. Positive reinforcement, treats, and praise will earn plenty of clever tricks. Teaching a recall early is beneficial as the small, fast Bichon is difficult to catch if it gets loose. Early socialization is important to prevent fearful behaviors as some bloodlines are more timid. As with most small breed dogs, the Bichon may be difficult to housetrain. ADVANCED TRAINING These former circus dogs still have plenty of tricks up their sleeves. Bichons love to show off at every opportunity, and they learn advanced tricks with ease. Keep training sessions fun and interesting, with plenty of praise—and no harsh punishments. The small, yet athletic breed loves agility because it's an activity that involves spending time with people. Bichons have been trained as service dogs and can provide valuable support in this capacity, though it isn't a common choice for the job. SPORTING DOG TRAINING While the type of water spaniel from which the Bichon Frise developed was a hunting and retrieving dog, the Bichon Frise isn't a sporting dog. The friendly Bichon's purpose was a companion to nobility and royalty. Many Bichons Frises still possess a strong prey drive that may be harnessed for use as a flushing dog, but it is an unconventional breed for hunting. If used afield, the Bichon's long coat would need excessive care to prevent mats and to remove twigs, burrs, and debris after a hunting excursion. Managing your adolescent puppy Your puppies are now approaching their first birthdays, as well as adolescence - the equivalent of their troublesome teenage years. This can be a difficult stage in your puppy's life. Know how best to handle them as they transition from puppy to adult dog. When puppies become adults Adolescence marks the change from being a puppy to becoming an adult. In dogs, it can start any time between six and 12 months and can end between 18 and 24 months . During this time, there are dramatic hormonal changes and a reorganization of the brain. Do dogs go through a rebellious stage? These hormonal changes can make adolescent dogs appear less obedient. However, what's really happening is that they're increasingly motivated to explore, interact and run. They also have a greater need to interact with their environment and the people in it. Just like human teenagers, adolescent dogs have the energy and motivation to do more. More exploration, more play, more interaction with their friends (humans and non-humans!), but they lack the necessary knowledge and experience to think about and manage their actions and reactions. Teenage dogs are a lot more energetic and interactive. They can easily find themselves in conflict when they're asked to stop doing something, or simply to calm down. It even happens in situations when they used to be 'obedient' and responded instantly. This kind of change is often interpreted by owners as the dog being stubborn or trying to assert their dominance. Instead, it's their dog finding it difficult to control their impulses. Dog adolescence can cause frustration Some dogs, depending on their temperament (or personality), may become frustrated when they can't get what they want. Because this is a negative emotion, it can trigger negatively motivated behaviours. This includes excessive barking and annoying behaviours like jumping up, scratching, nipping, biting the lead and even aggression. It's unsurprising that many owners report big changes in their dogs' behaviour. Sadly, adolescence is a time when some puppies may find themselves being rehomed. The good news is that this period of problematic behaviour does pass. We've pulled together some top tips to help you through this difficult 'teenage' phase. Dealing with adolescent behaviour in dogs Rather than focusing on how to control an adolescent dog, we need to think about how we can satisfy their physical and behaviour needs. Learning the ability of teenage dogs is better than that of adult dogs or puppies. The best thing to do is to focus some of their energy towards structured play and exercise sessions. You can play searching games, scent puzzles and take long walks in quiet areas. We also need to think about how we can prevent situations in which our dog may be more excitable or frustrated. We can do this by giving them some activities before the event or by giving them something to do that can help them to cope with frustration. Avoid frustration at dinner time Dogs in general, and young dogs in particular, get frustrated when people eat. Because they also want the food and cannot participate, they may jump, bark and scratch. Minimize their frustration by feeding your pet before you eat, then giving them something to chew or perhaps a dog puzzle while you eat. Keep your pup stimulated Not being able to get people's attention can also be frustrating, but predictability is the best way to avoid frustration. Try increasing the variety of interactive games in your dog's routine. Play with a ball or a frisbee, or hiding something that your dog has to find Remember to give cues about when the play session starts and when it finishes. For example, you can tell the dog 'playtime' or show a toy. When you want to finish, just say 'finish' and throw the toy in the opposite direction, or remove it and give your dog something to occupy themselves with. This is useful to minimise the frustration at the end of a pleasant activity. You can also scatter some treats or give your dog something nice to chew. Don't tell your dog off If your dog was used to playing with other dogs, but started to become too boisterous or even aggressive, telling them off is only making the problem worse. Instead, try to distract your dog and remove them from the situation using a happy voice rather than a reprimand. If your dog has dog friends, you can continue to socialise with the dogs they know. Minimise their exposure to other dogs for a while though. Avoiding repeated negative experiences in the presence of other dogs will help stop the problem from getting worse. Keep your dog active Adolescent dogs are energetic! Longer walks in quiet areas, lots of exploration and simply using their nose are a few of the most rewarding activities for dogs. Some adolescent dogs seem to become more fearful and anxious . This can be the reason why they don't follow their owners' requests or even start to show behaviors such as destructiveness, house soiling or excessive barking. It's really important that they're not punished for their 'bad manners'. Telling dogs off, shouting or using more physical methods can make dogs even more scared and worried and their behaviour can get worse. In these types of situations, ask a professional for help . What if nothing is helping? If nothing you're doing seems to help, it's important to get some help and advice. Sometimes bad behaviour can be caused by an underlying medical or health issue. It's important to get your pet checked by a vet first to rule this out. They can then refer you to a behaviour expert if necessary. To sum up, if your adolescent dog seems to have lost his 'manners', think about how to provide more positive activities. Avoid exposing them to situations that may excite or frustrate them, avoid any kind of punishment and be patient. This phase will pass! Find more advice, tips and health information for caring for your dog .

This page shows items used in our home. These items will be familiar to your new pup. Click on the images to go directly to amazon for purchase Preparing for your new puppy ! (some basic items you may consider) Wire Crate We recommend the 36" crate, but it is entirely up to you. With the 36" crate you can over stuff it when they are puppies with a blanket or bedding mat when they are young, then they can grow into it as an adult. Click on the image to purchase! Puppy play pen These are great for corralling your active puppy when you can't keep a constant eye on them. We like the 24" model because it is easy to step over should you need to enter the pen area. They come in multiple heights if you prefer. They can also be stretched out straight and secured to close off large openings between rooms. Click on the image to purchase! Water/Food bowls These are the bowls we use in our adult crates for food, get the 4 cup size. We also introduce them to our pups at 4 weeks old and up. You may consider getting 2, one for food, one for water. They stay secure and detach easily for cleaning. Click on the image to purchase ! Bedding These are the bedding mats we use. They are machine washable and are very comfortable for your pup. They come in various sizes, so measure and get the size you desire. Consider getting 2, so one can be in the wash while the other is in use. Click on the image to purchase! Licker Water Bottle We use these water bottles in our adult and puppy crates, Its a more sanitary way to provide clean fresh water. It will also keep the ones that like splashing in their bowl from making a mess ! Click the image to purchase ! Chew Toys You can not have too many chew toys for your teething puppy. We like the toys with bumps for extra stimulation. The hard synthetic toys are difficult for them to damage. Keep a watchful eye on all your toys condition and remove and replace them when they become damaged. Click on the image to purchase ! Treats We use dried liver treats for training and reward. You can find them at your local Costco store at a great price. You will be amazed at what a Bichon can learn, they are very smart dogs. We also use organic peanut butter for a special treat, and for hiding pills ! Click the image to purchase ! Grooming Tools These are the basic grooming tools you will need : Slicker brush, two sided comb, fine combs for eye stains, puppy nail clippers and blunt end scissors . If you don't feel comfortable trimming around puppy's eyes, make sure your groomer does it. Click images to purchase ! Pee Pee Mat These are the washable re-usable mats we use. They are super absorbent and will help keep your baby dry until he/she is fully house broken. We suggest getting 3-4 of these so there is always a clean one available. Stay away from disposable pee pads, they pose a choking hazard if puppy chews them. Stella & Chewy puppy food Our most recommended and widely used freeze dried raw food. This food most closely resembles the complete raw diet we begin feeding our pups at approximately 3 weeks old. That means it is an easy switch from the complete diet they are use to. All the same nutrition, but with the convenience of availability, ease of storage and multiple flavors to keep your new puppy happy. Another great alternative NEW on the market Fresh Dog Food Made Easy We took the headache out of fresh food and made it 36% more affordable Save 50% Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier Medium If you are gonna transport your pet with you on an airline flight in cabin, this carrier meets airline requirements.

Here you will find helpful hints on keeping your Bichons face free from staining Tear Staining With white-coated breeds such as Bichon Frise , many at some point in their life will develop those very distracting, ugly, red-brownish tear stains underneath their eyes, around their muzzles, and in between their toes. The cause can be related to health issues, shape of the eye, blocked tear-ducts, puppy teething, ear infection, allergies (either food or environmental), and so on. Therefore if your normally white-faced puffball develops aggressive staining seemingly out of the blue, first consult your veterinarian, and/or a veterinary ophthalmologist, to rule out any underlying health concern. After confirming your dog is indeed healthy, the following tips and suggestions from my own experience and feedback from other breeders will hopefully restore and maintain that beautiful, white furry face. Examine the quality of your food It is generally agreed among Bichon Frise breeders that although there are numerous and passionate opinions about brands (and further passion about kibble versus raw), a high-quality diet works best for our breed. The corn, wheat, and meats that are used as fillers in inferior-quality foods just don’t ensure long-term good health and can cause allergic reactions, resulting in excess tearing and other problems. Chicken products can often be the source of this problem. Examine the quality of your water We have noticed that they will develop staining pretty quickly in response to excess minerals. Use purified, spring, distilled, or reverse-osmosis water sources. Clean in, means clean out when it comes to water. This is normally not the cause, but can pose a problem, especially due to high iron content ! It is very important to clean water bowls once a day, provide fresh water daily. Keep those moist or “rusty” areas dry! Try using licker bottles (such as for rabbits or hamsters) instead of water bowls, especially for sloppy drinkers. Use paper towels to absorb the excess water around your dog’s mouth after he/she drinks from a bowl. Cornstarch can also be dusted underneath the eye, around the muzzle, and in between toes to help keep these areas dry. Daily eye- and mouth-hair hygiene. A quick daily “face grooming” will go a long way in keeping those stains at bay. Some tips: • Flush eyes with an appropriate canine eye-wash, such as saline eye-wash solutions or Terra Septic eye drops. • Moisten a cotton ball with the same eye wash or a contact lens solution, and rub underneath and around the eye area. • Wash the muzzle hair with dry shampoo or waterless shampoo and a wet washcloth. You may also try 3% hydrogen peroxide on a paper towel. Comb and blow-dry afterwards. • One of the biggest helpers, keep the hair around the eyes trimmed to avoid it irritating the eye and causing tearing. Use a pair of blunt/rounded end scissors to keep the hair trimmed away from the eyes. Especially the inside corners. If you don't feel comfortable doing this, make sure your groomer does it. These conditions can last from puppyhood to 7 months due to teething, but generally you'll see improvments as they mature by 3-4 months. The short of the story is that unfortunately there isn’t just one foolproof preventative, and each dog responds a little differently, so it often takes a little experimenting and patience—but it is worth the effort to have that precious little white face smiling at you ! click picture to purchase We have heard good things about this product. It may work for you !!

Here you will find helpful hints and tools should you decide you'd like to groom your Bichon Grooming Your Bichon Frise NOTE : Before grooming your Bichon, it's important to make sure that you will be able to do the job. If your curly-haired pooch is matted, detangling the mats can be painful for your dog and time consuming for you. Also, if your dog is a little rowdy, grooming at home may not be as manageable for you. Supplies You Will Need: a slicker brush whitening shampoo conditioner (optional) finishing spray (optional) pet grooming clippers grooming shears dental spray (optional) ear wash (optional) nail clippers and pet nail grinder blow dryer Bathing Your Bichon When bathing your Bichon, it is important to brush them first as water will tighten any existing mats. Our dogs tend to mat under their front legs. To prevent matting, daily brushing is important . After brushing your dog, put him/her into the tub and wet them from head to toe. I use a cup to help with smaller areas, especially the face. After wetting your Bichon, lather whitening shampoo on their entire body. With our puppies we use Johnson and Johnson no more tears shampoo, its safe for their skin and eyes. Lather extra shampoo on your dog's paws and tear stains. I generally allow the whitening shampoo to sit for a while to get a brighter affect. While I let the whitening shampoo do its work, I clean my Bichon's teeth and ears. There are several ears washes available, I use a recipe I found on the internet. We use Sentry Petrodex Dental Spray for cats and dogs. You literally just have to spray their teeth making sure to spray all of their teeth. I then proceed to rinse off the shampoo. If their fur is not as soft as usual, I will proceed to condition him as well. If their fur is soft, feel free to skip this step. Blow Drying Blow drying a Bichon can be very tricky and is one of the most important steps in grooming your Bichon. Towel dry your dog until he is damp, then proceed to brush him with the slicker brush. I brush down strokes on his body and legs, for example, from the top of the shoulder brush down to his paws. I brush down strokes from under his eyes to the bottom of his muzzle and brush the top part of his head straight back. After this step, your Bichon should have a wet, straight, or slightly wavy appearance. I then proceed to blow dry him while brushing his fur in every direction to get it bone straight. There are certain parts of my dog that don't straighten completely, and this is fairly common. While blow drying, constantly check the blow dryer to make sure it's not too hot by blowing the air on the back of my hand. Remember, dogs are more sensitive to heat than humans are so, if it's hot to you it's definitely hot to them. After your dog is completely dry and straight it's time to grab the clippers. Clipping Your Bichon Give your dog one last brush before using the clippers. (I use Wahl pet clippers that I bought from Walmart for about $30 or so. They came with a couple of different guards, scissors, a comb, and an instructional DVD.) Then cut the bottom of the paws but don't go between the paw pads. Cut around the rectum being careful not to cut the rectum itself. Then, use a number 3 ( 3/8") guard for his body. Shave in downward strokes being careful not to shave their legs as the legs will have to be scissored. It's easier to not shave just above the leg to easier blend their legs when you scissor them later. Do not shave the head either as that will need to be scissored as well. After shaving the body, brush the body and the legs straight down. Try using a picture as a reference to how the legs should look. The front legs should be rounded and straight. Hold the scissors straight down and cut a straight line from the body to the end of the paws. Try not to make big changes because, when you cut too much, it's much harder to fix as opposed to not cutting enough. Cut the bottom of the paws in a circle. When cutting their legs, I've noticed it's easier to go with the line that's already there and cut the pieces that deviate instead of cutting a whole new line. Do the same thing for the back legs except remember to leave a bend for their knee. The Bichon's head is the most important part of grooming. The head should be rounded at the top and flat at the bottom for the utility cut (pet cut). Brush the top up and the bottom down. Cut the ears so that they are even to the bottom of the chin to make sure they blend well. Then round off the top of the head to blend into the ears as well. Be sure to make certain the head is bigger than the body to give a true Bichon look. Tips for Grooming Your Bichon A young puppy will more than likely not be able to be groomed this way as their coat is thinner and less curly. The adult coat comes in at 6-8 months and that's when this type of grooming will work. If you do have a puppy, brush them daily to get them used to being groomed. Try and try again. Your first time cutting your dog probably won't be perfect but if you keep at it eventually, you'll get there The more you groom your dog, the more they will eventually sit still The tail just needs to be combed, it is meant to be bushy Be sure to trim the eye area carefully so your Bichon doesn't constantly have hair falling in his/her eyes Try a sanitation trim on the bottom so their poop doesn't get stuck on your dog's bottom Be patient, grooming can be time consuming

We like to tell our puppy parents to do the minimum vaccinations necessary to keep your puppy healthy. Which Vaccinations Do Puppies Need? Going to the vet repeatedly over several months for vaccinations, and then for boosters throughout your dog’s life, may seem like an inconvenience, but the diseases that vaccinations will shield our pets from are dangerous, potentially deadly, and, thankfully, largely preventable. We read about so many different vaccinations, for so many different illnesses, that it can sometimes be confusing to know which vaccinations puppies need and which ones are important but optional. Here is an overview of the diseases that vaccinations will help your pet to avoid. Bordetella Bronchiseptica This highly communicable bacterium causes severe fits of coughing, whooping, vomiting, and, in rare cases, seizures and death. It is the primary cause of kennel cough . There are injectable and nasal spray vaccines available. Canine Distemper A serious and contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), and nervous systems of dogs, raccoons, skunks, and other animals, distemper spreads through airborne exposure (through sneezing or coughing) from an infected animal. The virus can also be transmitted by shared food and water bowls and equipment. It causes discharges from the eyes and nose, fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, twitching, paralysis, and, often, death. This disease used to be known as “hardpad” because it causes the footpad to thicken and harden. There is no cure for distemper. Treatment consists of supportive care and efforts to prevent secondary infections, control symptoms of vomiting, seizures and more. If the animal survives the symptoms it is hoped that the dog’s immune system will have a chance to fight it off. Infected dogs can shed the virus for months. Canine Hepatitis Infectious canine hepatitis is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and the eyes of the affected dog. This disease of the liver is caused by a virus that is unrelated to the human form of hepatitis. Symptoms range from a slight fever and congestion of the mucous membranes to vomiting, jaundice, stomach enlargement, and pain around the liver. Many dogs can overcome the mild form of the disease, but the severe form can kill. There is no cure, but doctors can treat the symptoms. Canine Parainfluenza One of several viruses that can contribute to kennel cough (see above). Corona Virus This is a virus that usually affects dogs’ gastrointestinal systems, though it can also cause respiratory infections. Signs include most GI symptoms, including loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Doctors can keep a dog hydrated, warm, and comfortable, and help alleviate nausea, but there is no drug that kills coronaviruses. Heartworm When your puppy is around 12-to-16 weeks, talk to your vet about starting her on a heartworm preventative especially if your pet is an "outside" dog. Though there is no vaccine for this condition, it is preventable with regular medication. The name is descriptive—these worms lodge in the right side of the heart and the pulmonary arteries (that send blood to the lungs), though they can travel through the rest of the body and sometimes invade the liver and kidneys. The worms can grow to 14 inches long (ick!) and, if clumped together, block and injure organs. A new infection often causes no symptoms, though dogs in later stages of the disease may cough, become lethargic, lose their appetite or have difficulty breathing. Infected dogs may tire after mild exercise. Unlike most of the diseases listed here, which are passed by urine, feces, and other body fluids, heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Therefore, diagnosis is made via a blood test and not a fecal exam. The FDA has more information about heartworm. Kennel Cough Also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, kennel cough results from inflammation of the upper airways. It can be caused by bacterial, viral, or other infections, such as Bordetella and canine parainfluenza, and often involves multiple infections simultaneously. Usually, the disease is mild, causing bouts of harsh, dry coughing; sometimes it’s severe enough to spur retching and gagging, along with a loss of appetite. In rare cases it can be deadly. It is easily spread between dogs kept close together, which is why it passes quickly through kennels. Antibiotics are usually not necessary, except in severe, chronic cases. Cough suppressants can make a dog more comfortable. Leptospirosis Unlike most diseases on this list, Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria, and some dogs may show no symptoms at all. Leptospirosis can be found worldwide in soil and water. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be spread from animals to people. When symptoms do appear, they can include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, severe weakness and lethargy, stiffness, jaundice, muscle pain, infertility, kidney failure (with or without liver failure). Antibiotics are effective, and the sooner they are given, the better. Lyme Disease Unlike the famous “bull’s-eye” rash that people exposed to Lyme disease often spot, no such telltale symptom occurs in dogs. Lyme disease (or borreliosis) is an infectious, tick-borne disease caused by a type of bacteria called a spirochete. Transmitted via ticks, an infected dog often starts limping, his lymph nodes swell, his temperature rises, and he stops eating. The disease can affect his heart, kidney, and joints, among other things, or lead to neurological disorders if left untreated. If diagnosed quickly, a course of antibiotics is extremely helpful, though relapses can occur months or even years later. Parvovirus Parvo is a highly contagious virus that affects all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies less than four months of age are at the most risk to contract it. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system and creates the loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, and often severe, bloody diarrhea. Extreme dehydration can come on rapidly and kill a dog within 48-to-72 hours, so prompt veterinary attention is crucial. There is no cure, so keeping the dog hydrated and controlling the secondary symptoms can keep him going until his immune system beats the illness. Rabies Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that invades the central nervous system, causing headache, anxiety, hallucinations, excessive drooling, fear of water, paralysis, and death. It is most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Treatment within hours of infection is essential, otherwise, death is highly likely. Don't think that Possums, squirrels or foxes won't bother your dog, If they are infected. they can harm. or kill your pet if not protected by a vaccination. Most states require rabies vaccination. Check with your vet about rabies vaccination laws in your area. Of course, your veterinarian should weigh in and can always provide more information and guidance if needed on necessary and optional vaccinations. But remember, their is such a thing as "over vaccinating" Puppy’s Age to Adult Minimum Recommended Vaccinations 6 – 8 weeks first puppy shots : (DHLPP) + Corona (Distemper, Hepatitis, Canine Adenovirus, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza & Parvovirus) 10 – 12 weeks second puppy shots : (DHLPP) + Corona (Distemper, Hepatitis, Canine Adenovirus, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza & Parvovirus) 15 - 16 weeks - Third puppy shot : (DHLPP) + Corona (Distemper, Hepatitis, Canine Adenovirus, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza & Parvovirus) Over 4 months : Puppy Rabies (usually 1 year coverage) 7 to 9 month : First Heartworm test. 12 – 16 months : First Adult shots : Rabies (adult Rabies normally 1 - 3 yrs coverage) , Yearly : Heartworm test & Bordetella

This image is of puppies in young bone development. Raising a healthy puppy This is something I think everyone should see. This x-ray is of an 8 week old puppy. When you get your 8/10-week-old puppies, please keep this image in mind. Their bones do not even touch yet. They plod around so cutely with big floppy paws and wobbly movement because their joints are entirely made up of muscle, tendons, ligaments with skin covering. Nothing is fitting tightly together or has a true socket yet. When you run them excessively or don't restrict their exercise to stop them from overdoing it during this period you don't give them a chance to grow properly. Every big jump or excited bouncing run causes impacts between the bones. In reasonable amounts this is not problematic and is the normal wear and tear that every animal will engage in. But when you're letting puppy jump up and down off the lounge or bed, take them for long walks/hikes, you are damaging that forming joint. When you let the puppy scramble on tile with no traction you are damaging the joint. You only get the chance to grow them once. A well built body is something that comes from excellent breeding and a great upbringing-BOTH, not just one. Once grown - around 12-18 months depending on their breed, you will have the rest of their life to spend playing and engaging in higher impact exercise. So keep it calm while they're still young and give the gift that can only be given once.

This is how we feed our Bichons. This page will also assist you in choosing a healthy diet for your new pup. Over the last couple of months there has been a bird flu scare which halted the production of Ross-Wells Titan raw food. We have transitioned away from a raw food diet, as many of our co-op friends have done. Thankfully we have a great group of people who had many, many suggestions for alternative nutritional meals for dogs. We have decided to go with a local provider (Costco) for a quality ingredient dry food. We plan to supplement this particular food with vegetables, fruits, meats and eggs for an upgraded diet. In our opinion, this is one of the best raw food options Stella & Chewy's freeze dried Raw Food Patties. Available at Amazon & Chewy.com If you prefer not to feed raw then we suggest Natural Balance canned puppy food. We also like Dr. Becker’s recipes which are available on YouTube or in her book if you would like to make your pups meals. There are also some very good fresh foods from The Farmers dog, Ollies or NomNomNow. Another wonderful NEW food on the market for your pet is Sundays Save 50% Another great Alternative is a Natural Dog Food Diet Well, you can not get more natural then, natural dog food. This food is in fact what dogs would survive on if they didn't have humans to make food decisions for them. It incorporates all the best food groups that are the most healthy diet for canines. Cooked or Raw !! The right Vegtables are packed with all the necessary vitamines and nutrients. This diet also incorporates vitamins and nutrients that are not as easily found in common foods so it is added for maximum performance for your canine baby, teenager and adult. Dr. Beckers Basic recipe Yes, of course there is some time needed for planning & preparation. But, most of us treat our pets like family members right. We want the best for our pets, we want them to remain healthy and live long lives. If you are preparing for 1 pet, you got it made !! Even for 2 it is not that much work. Typically a food processor or meat grinder make easy work of it, and you may already have these !! Sample recipes from Dr. Becker Bone Broth Basic recipe Crockpot recipe

This information although not conclusive, with help you make a better choice Male or Female ? So you have decided you want a dog, but what to get, male or female? The answer to this question may differ depending on the person that is being asked. Some people actually believe that one sex is better than the other sex. The battle of the sexes is not limited to humans after all. Some believe that the male dog is more affectionate and easier to train, while the female dog is more aggressive and protective of its owners and puppies. Well, the truth is that when it comes to dogs and puppies there is no superior sex. The qualities cited above are just the anecdotal observations of many dog owners. There is no study that has proved any general truism that a dog will behave a certain way because it is male or female. Behavioral Differences The behavior of a dog will depend on how it is raised and trained as a puppy. Some dogs are more affectionate or aggressive than others because of the environment they were raised. The decision of whether to get a male or a female puppy is entirely dependent on the preference of the owner-to-be. Now, the behavior of a dog may depend on its training, but the sex of a dog can dictate its ability to learn from that training. It is a fact that a female dog is smaller in size and tends to reach maturity faster than the male dog. Its early maturity gives it an advantage when it comes to training. This does not mean the female is more intelligent than the male dog. It only means that the female dog will be easier to train than a male dog of the same age because it is more mature. The female dog comes into estrus two times a year. Also known as the “heat” cycle, this season will last about two weeks or as long as three weeks. During this period, the female dog produces a bloody vaginal secretion that acts as a lure for male dogs. If you do not want your female dog to breed during her heat cycle, you must keep her locked inside or isolated from any male dogs. It is also best to keep her locked in an area where the floors are not carpeted so that her bloody discharge will not stain the carpets. If you have no plans to breed your female dog then consider having her spayed. Keep in mind that spayed dogs are ineligible for entry into dog shows, so if you have no plans of competing with your dog the best time to have a female dog spayed is when she is about 10 to 12 months old or when they reach their full growth potential. Spaying has been shown to lower the risk of ovarian or uterine diseases in most female dogs. It is also believed that spaying has positive effects on the behavior of a female dog. It has been observed by many that female dogs have a better temperament after they have been spayed, often displaying much less aggression and becoming more mellow. Needless to say, spaying also prevents accidental or unwanted pregnancies, so it is important to make sure you take care of it as early as possible if you do not want to breed your dog. The non-neutered male dog, on the other hand, tends to be more dominant and high-spirited. He has an innate urge to dominate other dogs that are smaller, and will sometimes try to dominate their owner as well. A weak owner can easily be dominated by a large male dog. It is very important to start obedience training as soon as he / she is ready to be trained. A neutered dog, spayed female is generally less aggressive, calmer and less likely to roam.

We strive to give the best care we can to our puppies Cape Fear Bichons Accredidations AKC BRED WITH H.E.A.R.T. PROGRAM As part of AKC’s century-long commitment to advance the health and welfare of all dogs, the AKC has a new program called Bred with H.E.A.R.T. The program gives AKC a new way to engage, encourage and recognize ALL breeders who meet specific health testing standards and who participate in continuing education. Click on the links below to learn more about the specific commitments that an AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder makes to the health and well-being of their dogs. http://www.caninehealthinfo.org/brdreqs.html?breed=BCF fullsizeoutput_2b7.jpeg images.jpeg american-kennel-club.jpg fullsizeoutput_2b7.jpeg

Come to visit beautiful Wilmington NC, come for your Bichon 1440708521_Wilmington_Image2.jpg restaurant5.jpg wilmington-battleship-north-carolina.jpg 1440708521_Wilmington_Image2.jpg WILMINGTON NC Come for your Bichon , Come for the weekend !! Looking for the perfect vacation spot or weekend get away ? Look no further because we have the solution to your problem. It is the quaint and charming port city of Wilmington, North Carolina. With a population just over 122,000 it has a small town feel, yet offers oodles of adventures. From movie star sightings to historic establishments, there is something for everyone here. These are just a few of the reasons you should make Wilmington the next stop on your vacation.Temperatures average between the 70s and 90s during the summer months making for prime opportunity to go to the beach, see a show, dine at an outdoor restaurant on the Riverwalk or just stroll through downtown. 1/2

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