10 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Happy

As a dedicated pet owner, nothing brings me more joy than seeing my furry companion living a long, healthy, and happy life. Just like humans, pets require love, attention, and proper care to thrive. In this blog, I'll share 10 essential tips that have helped me ensure my pet's well-being. From providing nutritious meals to engaging in Brain Training for Dogs, let's dive in and discover the best practices for a pet's optimal health and happiness.

Healthy Nutrition:

One of the pillars of a healthy pet is a balanced diet. Offering high-quality pet food tailored to your furry friend's specific needs is vital. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your pet's age, breed, and health conditions. A nutritious diet helps maintain a healthy weight and supports your pet's immune system.

 Regular Exercise:

Just like humans, pets need regular physical activity to stay in shape and prevent obesity-related issues. Engage in daily walks, play fetch, or create interactive games to keep your pet physically active. Not only will this help their cardiovascular health, but it will also deepen the bond between you and your fur baby.

Mental Stimulation:

Introducing your dog to brain training exercises is an excellent way to stimulate their mental abilities. These fun and challenging games provide mental enrichment, prevent boredom, and enhance problem-solving skills. Brain Training for Dogs is an innovative approach that can lead to a happier and more well-behaved pet.

Regular Vet Check-ups:

Preventive care is key to a healthy pet. Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to catch any potential health issues early on. Vaccinations, dental check-ups, and routine examinations are essential to ensuring your pet's overall well-being.

Hygiene and Grooming:

Regular grooming is not just about aesthetics; it's a crucial aspect of your pet's health. Brush their fur regularly to prevent matting, trim their nails to avoid discomfort, and clean their ears to prevent infections. Additionally, schedule baths as needed to keep their coat clean and shiny.

Provide a Safe Environment:

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your pet is essential for their overall health. Remove any potential hazards, secure dangerous items, and make sure your home is a pet-friendly space. Also, offer a cozy and quiet spot for them to rest and relax.

Plenty of Love and Attention:

Pets thrive on love and affection, just like we do. Spend quality time with your furry companion, play with them, and offer cuddles and praise. This emotional connection will strengthen the bond between you and your pet, leading to a happier and healthier pet.

Socialization:

Exposing your pet to new people, animals, and environments helps build their social skills. Properly socialized pets are often more well-adjusted and less anxious. Gradually introduce your pet to new situations, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe.

Pet Dental Care:

Dental health is often overlooked but critical for your pet's overall well-being. Dental problems can lead to pain and various health issues. Regularly brush your pet's teeth and provide dental treats or toys to promote oral hygiene.

Monitor Their Behavior:

As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to be attentive to your pet's behavior. Notice any changes in their eating habits, energy levels, or demeanor. Identifying unusual behaviors early on can be crucial in detecting potential health problems.

Being a pet owner comes with great responsibility, but the rewards of having a happy and healthy companion are immeasurable. By following these 10 essential tips – from providing a nutritious diet to embracing mental stimulation – you'll ensure that your pet lives a long, healthy, and joyful life by your side. Cherish the moments you share with your furry friend and commit to their well-being, and you'll both enjoy a fulfilling journey together.

Unleashing Love: The Ultimate Guide to Pet Adoption Sites Online.

 The Rise of Online Pet Adoption Sites

The internet has revolutionized the way we live our lives, and pet adoption is no exception. In the past, those who were interested in adopting a furry friend had to rely on their local animal shelters or pet stores. 

However, with the advent of online pet adoption sites, prospective adopters have a wider range of pets to choose from and can easily find their perfect match with just a few clicks. The first online pet adoption site was launched in 1995 by Eric Borgos. 

The website known as "Petfinder" quickly gained popularity among animal lovers and rescue organizations alike. Petfinder allowed for rescues to list available animals on the site for free, which helped connect them with potential adopters across the country. 

Today, Petfinder has over 3000 animal shelters and rescue organizations listed on its website. The importance of pet adoption cannot be overstated. 

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S shelters every year. Without adoption, these animals may face euthanasia or live in cramped conditions for extended periods of time. 

Adoption through online sites has become incredibly popular over recent years due to its convenience and accessibility. The ability to browse through hundreds if not thousands of pets from different states in one sitting is highly appealing compared to going from store-to-store looking at individual pets that are usually expensive - especially if you're looking for specific breeds or exotic species that are harder to find locally. 

What is Pet Adoption?

Pet adoption is where people welcome dogs, cats or other pets into their families by taking them from care centers such as animal shelters or rescues instead of buying them from pet stores and breeders. Adoption centers work to ensure that their pets are well-fed, cared for and medically attended to before being adopted. 

After adoption, owners may receive training and advice on how to take care of their pets properly. While adoption is a great way to provide homes for animals in need, it’s not only about giving pets a roof over their heads.

 Pets offer many benefits to their owners; they can provide companionship, reduce stress levels, aid in depression and anxiety reduction, offer exercise opportunities through playing or walking with them. Studies have also shown that owning a pet can lead to lower blood pressure levels among other health benefits. 

Adopting a pet is an important decision, and one that should be taken seriously. It's vital that you consider your lifestyle when trying to choose the right pet for your family; whether you are looking for an active dog or a cat who prefers lounging indoors - there is always an animal suited towards your lifestyle. 

Adopting pets online has become increasingly popular over the years as technology continues advancing. Pet adoption sites provide an easy and accessible way of finding animals in need of loving homes while also offering numerous benefits for adopters themselves such as improved mental health and physical fitness levels. 

Overview of Popular Pet Adoption Sites

Some of the most well-known pet adoption sites include: 

Petfinder: Arguably the most recognizable name in online pet adoptions, Petfinder boasts over 11,000 animal shelters and rescue organizations from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Users can search by location, breed, age, gender and more. 

Adopt-a-Pet: A similar site to Petfinder that also allows users to search by location and breed preferences. Adopt-a-Pet’s unique feature is their “Best Match” option that pairs pets with potential adopters based on compatibility. 

Petango: Another site that partners with animal welfare organizations across North America to connect pets in need with caring families. One standout feature is their use of machine learning algorithms to match pets with potential adopters based on personality traits. 

Comparison of Features and Services Offered by Each Site

Each site has its own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to features and services offered. For example: 

Petfinder: Offers a robust search engine with a wide range of parameters for finding your perfect pet. Also provides resources such as articles on training tips and advice for first-time pet owners. 

Adopt-a-Pet: Provides a user-friendly interface and unique “Best Match” option for finding compatible pets. Also offers resources such as articles on nutrition and wellness tips. 

Petango: Offers machine-learning algorithms to help match pets with adopters based on personalities. Provides users with a seamless experience across desktop and mobile devices. 

Tips for finding the right pet on adoption sites

Adopting a new pet is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many adorable pets to choose from on pet adoption sites, it's easy to get lost in the sea of options.

 Here are some tips for finding the perfect furry friend:

 1. Narrow down your search: When browsing adoption sites, use filters to narrow down your search based on animal type, breed, age, and location. This will help you focus your search and find pets that meet your specific criteria. 

2. Read the animal's profile carefully: Each animal has their own unique personality and needs. Read their profile thoroughly to get a sense of what they're like and if they would be a good fit for your lifestyle. 

3. Look for photos and videos: Photos can give you an idea of what the animal looks like, but videos can provide more insight into their personality and behavior. 

4. Consider special needs pets: Don't overlook animals with special needs or medical conditions. They may require extra care, but they also have so much love to give and deserve a chance at a happy life. 

Understanding the adoption process and requirements

The adoption process can vary depending on which site or organization you use, but here are some general requirements you should be aware of: 

1. Adoption application: Most adoption processes begin with filling out an application form that includes basic information about yourself, living situation, and previous pet experience. 

2. Home visit: Some organizations may require a home visit before approving an adoption to ensure that your home is suitable for the chosen pet. 

3. Fees: Adoption fees vary based on where you adopt from and which animal you choose. 

4. Post-adoption follow-up visits: Some organizations may conduct follow-up visits after the adoption to ensure that everything is going well with both the pet and their new family. 

It's important to remember that the adoption process is in place to ensure that pets are placed in loving and appropriate homes. Be patient and honest throughout the process, and you'll soon find yourself with a new furry family member who will bring joy into your life.

Benefits of Adopting Pets Online

Convenience and accessibility

One of the major benefits of adopting pets online is how easy it is to browse different adoption sites from the comfort of your own home. Instead of visiting multiple animal shelters or breeders in person, you can simply use the internet to find a wide range of pets available for adoption. This convenience makes it much easier for people with busy schedules or those who live in remote areas to find and adopt a pet.

 Additionally, many pet adoption sites offer advanced search options that allow you to refine your search by location, breed, age, gender, and other criteria. This makes it easier than ever before to find a pet that fits your lifestyle and preferences. 

Wider variety of pets available

Another advantage of adopting pets online is that you have access to a much wider variety of animals than you might be able to find at local shelters or breeders. Many online adoption sites work with animal rescue organizations across the country, which means they can offer more diverse breeds and species than traditional brick-and-mortar shelters. 

In addition, some pet adoption sites partner with international organizations to bring in animals from other countries. This gives adopters the chance to give homes to animals that may have been abandoned or mistreated in their original homes overseas. 

Cost savings compared to buying from breeders

Adopting a pet through an online site can also be a more affordable option than buying from a breeder. While many reputable breeders charge premium prices for their purebred animals, most animal shelters and rescue organizations only require an adoption fee covering basic medical expenses like vaccinations and spaying/neutering surgeries. 

Additionally, some online adoption sites offer promotions or discounts on certain pets if they’ve been waiting for their forever home longer than others. Adopting these furry friends not only brings joy to the adopter but also helps these animals find a loving home and reduces overcrowding in shelters. 

It’s important to keep in mind that adopting an animal is a serious commitment that should not be taken lightly. However, if you’re ready for the responsibility and love that comes with owning a pet, adopting one through an online site can be a rewarding experience for both you and your new furry friend. 

Challenges and Risks

Scams and frauds

While there are many reputable pet adoption sites online, there are also scams and fraudulent activities that you need to watch out for. 

One common scam is the "puppy mill" scam, where the seller claims the pets are from a reputable breeder but in reality, they come from a puppy mill. 

Another scam is the "deposit" scam where the seller will demand a deposit before sending you the pet, but then disappear once they have your money. 

To avoid scams, make sure to do your research and only work with reputable adoption sites. 

Read reviews and check their reputation online. Don't be afraid to ask questions or follow up on any doubts or concerns you may have. 

Potential health or behavioral issues 

Adopting a pet online comes with potential health or behavioral issues that you need to be aware of. Adopted pets may have underlying medical conditions that were not disclosed by the site or previous owner. 

They may also have behavioral issues due to past experiences or lack of training. To minimize these risks, it's recommended that you adopt from a site that provides detailed information about each pet's medical history and behavior. 

You can also request for a vet checkup before finalizing your adoption. It's important to remember that adopting a pet requires patience, understanding, and some level of commitment as they adjust to their new environment. 

It’s important to note that even if an animal appears healthy upon adoption day doesn't mean they don't need to see a vet soon after. Cats and dogs need to be vaccinated, tested for parasites such as heartworm or tick-borne diseases, and spayed or neutered if not already done so before adoption. 

While there are certainly risks involved with adopting pets online, you can minimize those risks by doing your due diligence beforehand. By being vigilant and informed about potential scams and health/behavioral issues that may arise with an adopted pet, you'll be better prepared to provide a loving home for your new furry friend. 

Success Stories

Love at First Sight: A Rescue Dog's Happy Ending

Maggie was just a tiny puppy when she was found wandering on the streets by a rescue organization. She was malnourished, covered in fleas and ticks, and had scars all over her body from past injuries. 

It was clear that she had been neglected and mistreated by her previous owners. Her story touched the heart of a young couple who were browsing pet adoption sites online. 

The couple immediately fell in love with Maggie's big, adoring eyes and playful personality. They decided to adopt her and give her the loving home she deserved. 

After a few weeks of care and attention, Maggie started to transform into a happy, healthy dog. She gained weight, grew back her fur, and became more confident around people.

 Today, Maggie is thriving with her new family who can't imagine life without her. The couple says that adopting Maggie has been one of the best decisions they've ever made.

 A Cat's Second Chance at Life

Toby was a senior cat who had spent most of his life in a shelter waiting for someone to adopt him. He had been passed over many times due to his age and health issues, but that didn't stop one woman from falling in love with him on an adoption site. 

The woman knew that older cats often have trouble getting adopted because people prefer younger ones. But she also knew that Toby deserved a chance at happiness in his golden years too.

 After bringing Toby home, it wasn't long before he started showing his sweet and affectionate personality. He loved curling up next to his new owner on the couch for long naps or playing with toys together. 

Toby's new owner says that adopting him has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. She's grateful for the opportunity to give a senior cat a second chance at life and hopes that others will consider adopting older pets too. 

A Dog's Life-Saving Adoption

When a young family was browsing pet adoption sites online, they stumbled upon a dog named Rocky who had been rescued from an abusive home. Rocky was suffering from multiple injuries and trauma from his past experiences, but he still managed to wag his tail and show affection to anyone who approached him. 

The family knew that adopting Rocky would be a challenge, but they also knew that he deserved love and care just like any other pet. They took him home and started working with trainers to help him overcome his fears and anxieties. 

Over time, Rocky became more confident and playful with his new family. He learned how to trust people again and even made friends with other dogs in the neighborhood. 

The family says that adopting Rocky has not only changed their lives but also saved his life. He's now a happy and healthy dog who loves to go on walks, play fetch, and cuddle with his favorite humans.

 Adopting Pets Online: A Win-Win Situation

These success stories are just a few examples of how pet adoption sites online can make a positive impact on both pets' lives and adopters' lives. By choosing adoption over buying from breeders or pet stores, you're giving animals in need a second chance at happiness while also gaining an incredibly loyal companion. 

Plus, many adoption sites offer resources such as training tips, behavioral advice, and medical support to help ensure successful adoptions. It's truly a win-win situation for everyone involved! 

As you can see, there are numerous benefits to adopting a pet through an online adoption site. You get convenience and accessibility while saving money compared to buying from breeders. Plus, you get access to a wider variety of pets that may not be available locally. 

But most importantly, by choosing to adopt a pet instead of buying one from a breeder or store, you are helping rescue an animal in need of love and care. Your actions will make an enormous difference in their lives - giving them comfort and security they may never had otherwise experienced.

So if you're thinking about adding to your family dynamic or know someone who is considering it themselves - consider adopting through one these amazing websites! Not only will it change your life for the better - but it will change theirs too! 

Pet owner Mistakes and how to Fix them

 You get a pet and have the best of intentions.  You want to love and care for your pet, but maybe sometimes you forget that dogs and cats (as well as other pets) are very different from humans.  They do not speak your language and must be taught what things mean. Here are some of the mistakes we all make at times with our pets:

Not making sure your pet is properly socialized-

When left with their mothers, most dogs and cats are exposed to others of their breed, whether their litter mates, or just others around them.  They learn the rules of being the kind of animal they are from this experience.  When they are removed from their mothers early, as most are, they miss this experience.  They then are confused about who they are and what they are supposed to do.

You don't know enough about what your pet needs for health-

Dogs are omnivores and can eat both meat and plant based food.  There are, however, many things that are toxic for dogs like onions, chocolate and more.  It is your responsibility to learn about what your dog can and cannot eat.  You also should talk with your vet about what the optimal weight is for your dog and learn the proper proportions to feed. Feeding table scraps, while it seems okay, can cause your dog upset stomach due to the seasonings, fat content, and any sauces added.  Dogs need food plain, not drenched in sauce.

Cats are carnivores.  They eat meat.  This is the type of diet they are genetically predisposed to eat.  Feeding your cat vegetables seems normal, but actually cats cannot digest any plant based food, so it may cause upset stomach and diarrhea. As a cat owner, you should talk with your vet about optimal weight for your pet and proper amounts to feed.  Cats fed too much or fed incorrectly have a predisposition to develop diabetes and they also can develop kidney stones due to lack of running water.  Cats much prefer moving water to drink, so a bowl of stale water is unappealing to them and they may not take in enough fluid.

You don't spay or neuter your pet-

There is some type of mind-set in our society that removing reproductive abilities for pets is harmful or cruel.  Actually, the opposite is true.  Spaying or neutering your pet causes no long term harm and research shows that doing this can extend the life of your pet. It is not cruel to prevent a dog or cat from having one litter after another, which causes the female animal a great deal of distress and diminishes her ability to stay healthy.  Not to mention the overpopulation problem we are faced with today.  Contrary to popular thought, pets don't have to have at least one litter to be happy.  So, please spay or neuter your pet.

You don't give your pet enough attention-

You get a pet and enjoy spending time with it until you have other things more important to do.  Unfortunately, to your pet, you are their world and they do not have more important things to do.  Pets require attention on a regular basis, whether grooming, feeding, playing with them, or walking them; they deserve your attention and your time.  When you ignore them and leave them to their own devices, you invite trouble.  This is when they become destructive or they become very needy.  You are their whole world and they expect you to spend some of your time focused solely on them.  One of the problems with lack of time is lack of exercise for them.  As I covered earlier, weight management is as important for your pets as it is for yourself.  If you don't give your pet enough exercise, they become lazy and fat which leads to major health issues.

You don't learn how to read your pet's body language-

Your pets speak and it is up to us to learn their language just as we expect them to understand some of ours.  Dogs give cues to how they feel and what they are thinking.  Unfortunately, we don't always listen or pay attention to what they are trying to tell us.  Therefore, there are sometimes unfortunate but preventable accidents. People get bit every day by "friendly" dogs simply because they cannot distinguish between a tail wag and a tail flag. Take the time to learn what your pet is telling you because your pet is having to learn what you are saying, too.

You don't have a disaster plan for your pets-

No one wants to think about being in a disaster, but the truth is that there is always the possibility that you may experience one.  I live in Oklahoma, so we are all watching the skies for signs of tornadoes.  People all over experience traumatic events like mud slides, sink holes, flooding, fires, and other emergency situations. When making your family's disaster plan, don't forget to include your pets.  They will not be able to fend for themselves without you.  Make a plan and make sure everyone knows what it is.

These are just a few of the mistakes we often make when we get a pet.  All of us are guilty of one or more of these.  Our pets expect us to take the lead and keep them safe and healthy.  Don't let them down.

You can read more about this issue here.

Just another reason our pets are special!

Here's a heartwarming pet story just in time for Christmas.  Thanks to this wonderful and alert dog, this family will still be able to enjoy this holiday season.  I hope they get him a wonderful Christmas meal and a huge present! 

I found this on Life with Dogs and there is a video on that site that discusses this story in more detail.


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Boxer Puppy Saves Family

December 2, 2011Posted by ADMIN in Dog News
A six month old Boxer puppy from Georgia is being hailed as a hero for evacuating his family from their home after detecting a gas leak.
“He knew something we didn’t know. He sensed something wasn’t right,” said Jason Hyde.
Hyde and his family say they owe their lives to their faithful companion. They were gathered in their living room and decorating in preparation for the Christmas holiday when their dog Ollie became visibly agitated and started acting out to get their attention. At first they just thought he wanted to go out.
“Just started nudging and rubbing our legs like he wanted to go back outside,” said Sheree Hyde. But once in the yard, Ollie stood his ground and refused to come back inside. “He had his head up and his back was arched and he was unwilling to come back inside,” said Jason.
Ollie’s obvious stress prompted his family to follow him outside and join him in their yard. Once the entire family was evacuated, Ollie relaxed. That’s when it occurred to Jason Hyde that the gas fireplace had been left on.
He went back inside and realized that the flame was not lit. Ollie had smelled the gas pouring from the unlit fireplace and spreading throughout the home – and knew something was wrong. And when his family joined him in the yard to ascertain the source of his distress, they may very well have dodged a disaster: “We don’t know how long the gas would have poured out, and we do light candles,” said Sheree.
The Hydes are understandably grateful, and say they are blessed to have found Ollie. “I just think that it’s cool that God has made a creature, made a dog, as smart as this dog is and I am glad to have him,” said Jason.
“We are very thankful for him,” added Sheree.

Dr. Mahaney's Thanksgiving safety tips for your pets

Here's an article I found on DogTimes Weekly that I felt was appropriate to repost here.  We all will be celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas is almost upon us.  We need to take a moment to think about the health and safety of our loyal pets during this holiday season.  There are more dangers to them at this time than we think about.  Please heed the warnings in this article so both you and your loving pets have a wonderful holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

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This article courtesy of Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA

 

Starting with Halloween, the fall-winter holiday season yields innumerable hazards to our pets (see Top 5 Halloween Pet Safety Tips). The potential danger continues into Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwaanza, New Year's Eve, or other holiday of your choice. Pet hazards lurk in festive foods, decorations, and schedule and environment changes. Take the following precautions, as you will suffer emotional and financial stress caused by a pet's holiday health crisis.

Holiday Foods

Even though they may love the taste, avoid feeding your pet any of chocolate, candy, fats, proteins, bones, and dried fruits.

Chocolate and Candy- Chocolate contains chemical compounds called methylzanthines, including caffeine and theobromine, which have many toxic effects in dogs (see Pet Care 101- Why is chocolate unhealthy for my dog?). Additionally, the fat and sugar in chocolate and candy can cause serious gastrointestinal abnormalities, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis.

Fats and Proteins- Holiday foods, including animal skin, meats, and cheese are high in calories and contain large percentages of fat and protein. Even feeding your pet an amount of these foods that visually appears small can exceed your pet's daily caloric requirements. Additionally, the interruption of your dog's consistent consumption of a particular food by feeding holiday foods will increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset.

Bones- Cooked bones are harder than raw bones and prone to splintering, causing mechanical irritation to the lining of the stomach and intestines. Large pieces or multiple bones can be ingested, potentially causing esophageal, gastric, or intestinal obstruction. This year, don't be "that owner" berating yourself after a pet has gotten sick after eating your leftover steak bone.

Dried Fruits- Raisins (and grapes) have an unknown toxic mechanism which causes damage to the canine kidney. Although the toxic effects are most commonly seen when large amounts are consumed, it is recommended to prevent your dog from eating raisins and grapes. Along these lines, I recommend not feeding your pet any dehydrated fruits, as they are high in calories, may contain preservatives (sulfites, etc), and could lead to vomiting, diarrhea or other health concerns.

Holiday Decorations

Prevent your pet from having contact with holiday decorations, including candles and holiday plants.

Candles- Even momentary contact between a lit candles and your pet's fur can set your pet on fire, leading to life threatening skin burns. I have recently been involved in the treatment process of Buddha, a dog burned by an unknown heat source (see Burned French Bulldog Continues to Heal with Acupuncture Treatments). Besides the pain and suffering burned pets must endure, your entire family may be at risk if a pet knocks a candle over and causes combustion of flammable household materials.

Additionally, scented candles (cinnamon, fig, vanilla, etc) emit appealing aromas and may cause gastrointestinal abnormalities if consumed.

Holiday Plants- Many holiday plants are potentially toxic to your pet. A list of toxic and non-toxic plants can be found on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website.

Despite general public perception, the poinsettia is a traditional holiday plant that is only mildly toxic to pets when consumed. The poinsettia contains a sap which causes local irritation to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract when ingested, potentially causing salivation or vomiting.

Christmas pine, spruce, and fir trees and their water can both lead to toxic reactions in your pet. Christmas tree needles contain oils and resins potentially causing salivation and digestive upset. Consumption of tree water can cause gastrointestinal problems or organ (kidney, liver other) failure caused by fertilizers, bacteria, or molds.

Schedule and Environmental Changes

Holidays create situational changes in our lives and cause additional stress for our pets. Pet owners or guests entering and exiting the home environment increases the likelihood your pet could escape. Even if your pet is not a notorious escape artist, fit your pet with a collar bearing appropriate identification. Additionally, microchip implantation will connect your pet to you should their collar fall off or be removed.

Travel plans or the presence of holiday guests may require a pet to be kenneled in a facility or confined in your home. If your pet is kept outdoors, ensure their safety from weather extremes by providing a climate controlled shelter.

This holiday season, please think ahead and plan for the possibility that your pet may be adversely affected by your festivities. Should your pet show illness or be suspected to have inappropriately consumed holiday foods or decor contact your regular or emergency veterinary hospital.

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Dr. Mahaney graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and is also a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. He lives and practices in Los Angeles, California, and works closely with local rescue organizations. He also writes for Los Angeles Pet Care Examiner column.

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Related articles

• Holiday Safety Tips for your Pet (parleyswayneighborhoodwatch.wordpress.com)
• Satey Tips For Your Pets This Holiday! [VIDEO] (now100fm.radio.com)
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• Holiday Pet Safety (iowadogtrust.wordpress.com)
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Dog Survives Inferno by Hiding Under Bed

Here's some good news for a change that I found on Life with Dogs. Please visit the site and leave them a comment. More people need to know about this and see that there can be some good news, sometimes.
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Here's a link to a video about this dog


A Texas family finds hope amidst tragedy when their dog is recovered alive a day after their house burned down.

Patsy Alexander dug through the rubble of her parents home after it was destroyed by a fire last week. The Tyler, Texas resident was hoping to find a few sentimental items, and was shocked to find the family dog alive and well after spending the night hiding under a bed.

“I was just glad to see at least one come out and made it through this tragedy,” said Alexander.

Alexander spent the afternoon at the aftermath of her uncle’s charred home. Alexander is worried for the homeowner, James Culpepper. He was injured after helping his family to escape the blaze and is hospitalized in serious condition. Daughter Linda Cook is caring for his dog until he is released.

Authorities say the fire was started by a faulty heater that ignited a sofa. Culpepper’s family is thankful his dog somehow survived, and said they are hoping to see the two reunited in the near future.

Ensure Your Pet Always Has a Way Home.

Homeless and lost pets fill our animal shelters to capacity.  True, some animals are "dumped" there, but the majority of them have been picked up roaming the streets unescorted.

Satchmo, bless his soul, was the epitome of the escape artist.  He could get through spaces much too small for him and be gone in a flash!  Once out and about, he was only caught when he wanted to be caught.  My biggest concern as I chased after him was "when will he finally get tired and want to come home?"  but my next thought was always, "what if he gets hit by a car?" because he knew nothing about traffic and streets.

There are many ways a responsible pet owner can make sure that their pet is returned to them if lost.

First, start out simply click here to get your pet an engraved tag stating the animal's name and having your last name and telephone number on one side.  Make sure to attach this to the animals collar or harness.

Secondly, click here to get your animal microchipped.  However, a caveat.  If you don't keep the information current, this is a worthless piece of junk inside of your pet.  Most microchips can be reconfigured to input new information if you move, but you must notify the company to get the information changed.

Another way to keep your pet safe is to use a GPS collar to track your dog.  These products have become more and more affordable as GPS gains in popularity.  With this system in place, you simply notify the company and they will notify you of your dogs location.

There is also the option of joining an online pet finding company where you can register and pay, then if your pet is lost, the company will call all shelters, put up flyers, send out email alerts to your area, call all of your neighbors to alert them of the lost pet.  This type of service is excellent and has a really good track record of finding lost pets.

With all the options available, there really is not a good excuse for your pet to be one of the lost and scared animals sitting in our over-crowded shelters, is there?

Related articles

• Pet owners encouraged to microchip family pets (money.marksandspencer.com)
• Safeguarding your pet with microchipping technology (savingsroundup.com)
• Dogs and microchips - the best way to keep your pooch safe (thenewssource.co.uk)
• Find your lost pet with GPS-powered Tagg The Pet Tracker (digitaltrends.com)
• Unprecedented Collaboration Helps Lost Pets Reunite with Owners (prweb.com)
• Well Blog: For Lost Pets, Tags Are Critical (well.blogs.nytimes.com)
• Where can you find a dog at (wiki.answers.com)
• Qualcomm Shows Public Face With Pet-tracking Service (pcworld.com)
• Getting Your Dog a Microchip, a Necessity For the Domestic Canine (lifewitharie.wordpress.com)
• Is Your Pet Connected? PetBam Unites Pets and Animals and Those Who Love Them (prweb.com)

Separation Anxiety Can Be A Reality For Your Dog When The Kids Go Back To School

Image via WikipediaWhen summer is over and the kids have to return to school, sometimes our pets have difficulty adjusting to the loss of their playmates of summer.  Some develop anxiety disorders, some develop really bad habits and regress to puppyhood.  Here is an article that addresses this issue.  It is from Banfield.com and has really good information you can use immediately.

Another way to help your pet with anxiety is with the new wrap that snuggles your pet and makes them feel safe and protected.  You can visit this link to find out more about this wonderful product.

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In September, as the kids head back to school, did you consider that your dog may have to adjust to the changes in the family routine just like everyone else? During the summer, your children and the family dog can develop a strong bond. Now there’s suddenly an empty and quiet house. This change in routine can cause your dog to suffer from separation anxiety or depression—to actually miss your kids—and even follow them to school. Your dog may experience the effects of the loss of extra playtime and the friendship developed with your children by exhibiting signs of separation through destructive behaviors such as:

• Chewing furniture
• Ripping the stuffing out of pillows
• Shredding paper
• Obsessive barking/whining for extended periods of time
• House soiling

Separation anxiety is a serious condition that can be managed with structure and patience. NEVER punish your dog for exhibiting this behavior, as it will make him more fearful and potentially aggressive.
Tips to manage anxiety:

• Start with leaving your dog at home for very short periods of time to get him used to being alone
• Avoid emotional departures and greetings
• Have your belongings prepared so that your departure from home is calm
• Consider doggie daycare for prolonged absences
• Teach the kids to avoid over stimulating the dog with departures and arrivals
• Exercising your dog before leaving the house in the morning is a good idea so he’ll be relaxed when you return and be set for when you’re away.
• Leave some sturdy, interactive toys for your dog to help keep him from being bored.
Be sure to check with your veterinarian to have your dog fully evaluated and correctly diagnosed before trying to manage the symptoms. There may be an underlying medical condition that may be misconstrued as separation anxiety.

Related articles

• My dog has separation anxiety (tithebarn.wordpress.com)
• Separation Anxiety in Dogs (everydayhealth.com)
• Does Anti Anxiety Dog Coats Help Dog Behavior Problems?. (animaltopics.com)
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• Dog Behavior Problems (mademan.com)
• 6 Tips for Conquering Separation Anxiety as Kids Head Back to School (tricitypsychology.com)

Here's an interesting article that talks about protecting innocent pets from domestic abuse by law.  I'm all for that.  Domestic abuse is about abuse of power and we all know that in a family the one without power is the target for this type of behavior--wives, children, pets.

I found this article in the Killeen Daily Herald although it appears to have originated in the Dallas Morning News.  This is a very interesting development in the animal welfare arena, especially in Texas.  Texas is not known for its protective policies of women and children, let alone pets.  Hmmmm.

                   New law to help pets caught in domestic abuse   Posted On: Tuesday, Jul. 5 2011 10:21 AM DALLAS (AP) — Protective orders that prevent an abuser from hurting, threatening or harassing a person will soon be extended to pets thanks to a Texas law taking effect this summer.

The law was designed to help when someone abuses or threatens to abuse an animal to intimidate or coerce a victim. While a first offense would be a misdemeanor, two or more offenses would bump the crime up to a third-degree felony, The Dallas Morning News reported Saturday.

"It's really not about overzealously being protective of pets in Texas," said Sen. Wendy Davis, a Fort Worth Democrat who wrote the legislation that Gov. Rick Perry recently signed into law. "It's about protecting women who are battered."

When the law takes effect Sept. 1, Texas will join about a dozen other states that have extended protective orders to pets.

"Everybody that has pets is very passionate and loves their pets," so an abuser will use that passion against the victim as a show of power and control, said Dallas police Lt. Scott Walton, interim division manager of Dallas Animal Services.

According to the American Humane Association, 71 percent of pet-owning women entering shelters reported that their abuser had injured, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control them.

Mary Silman of Arlington, who endured prolonged physical and psychological abuse, recalled the traumatic beating of a pet dog she loved.

"My husband just started beating up the dog with his fists ... trying to crack its ribs," the 56-year-old woman said. "It was yelping. I couldn't do anything or say anything because I was too scared ... that he was going to do that to me."

Silman said an abuser will keep a victim's pet or kill it out of spite, and "no innocent animal needs to be caught up in that."

Advocates say victims may be more inclined to seek help if they don't have to worry about their pet's safety.

But some people who run shelters say the new law might pose new challenges for animal and domestic abuse shelters. For instance, some people staying at shelters are allergic to animals, and several shelters lack the space needed to even house pets.

The Family Place in Dallas encourages victims to contact a friend to house the pet or to call animal and domestic abuse shelters to discuss possible solutions.

People increasingly are also using social networks such as Facebook and Craigslist to find foster homes for pets.

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Information from: The Dallas Morning News, http://www.dallasnews.com

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.

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ASPCA Provides Critical Water Rescue for Pets Stranded by Irene

Image via Wikipedia Let's all remember the animals that are affected by hurricanes.  Remember the dogs from Katrina?  Now we have the dogs from Irene.  Please help your local ASPCA, or donate to rescue organizations that are trying to help these animals. 

This article is from the ASPCA Blog and you need to see that there is a need here.

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September 1, 2011





After a state of emergency was declared in the area, the ASPCA deployed to Schoharie County, New York, to assist with the emergency rescue and sheltering of animals stranded by severe flooding. Small towns are engulfed by water, and roads and bridges have been closed across the county.
“We’re providing emergency water rescues for pets trapped inside flooded homes,” says Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response. “People can’t get home; the damage caused by Tropical Storm Irene is just devastating.”
Rescued animals will be taken to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley where they will be triaged and housed until they can be reunited with their families. PetSmart Charities has supplied much-needed provisions such as crates, blankets and bowls.
“We’re committed to helping families and pets impacted by Tropical Storm Irene,” says Rickey. “We’ll be here for as long as they need us.”
Schoharie County residents looking to rescue or shelter their pets or wishing to report lost pets should contact Animal Services at the Schoharie County Emergency Operations Center at (518) 231-2718.
Stay tuned to ASPCA.org for more on this breaking story.

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• ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society Rescue More Than 120 Dogs from Overwhelmed Animal Facility in Arkansas (prweb.com)
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Dog Bites -- Why your dog may bite even you

Six Tips for Dog Owners to Prevent Biting

1. Socialize and train. Your dog should be comfortable interacting not only with family members, but with visitors and other animals as well. Socialization before your puppy reaches 14-16 weeks of age is a crucial step in raising a balanced, well-adjusted dog.
   Basic obedience training is also essential for both you and your pet. Owners need to learn to work with rather than against their dog’s instincts and this isn’t a skill most of us are born with.
   As your dog grows and develops, it’s important to continue socialization and training. It will increase the bond you and your pet share, and it will keep your dog’s mind stimulated for a lifetime. At my hospital, I encourage owners to keep puppies in class through their first year of life, similar to encouraging your children to graduate from college versus stopping their education after elementary school.
2. Spay or neuter. When your dog becomes balanced both physically and mentally, it’s the right time to spay or neuter. Intact male dogs are more likely to bite than neutered dogs. Female dogs, both those in heat and those nursing a litter, can exhibit unpredictable behavior. Ask your vet to help you decide when it’s the right time for your pet. If your vet suggests your dog is brewing a temperament problem, taking the sex hormones out of the equation sooner rather than later will be the recommendation.  
3. Supervise. Your dog is a pack animal, and you’re the pack leader. Dogs weren’t designed by nature to hang out alone in most situations. Your pet needs your presence and guidance, especially when other people and animals are around.
   Leaving your dog on his own to decide how to behave can make him feel insecure and anxious, or alternatively, overly confident. This lack of emotional balance can spell danger to those who cross your dog’s path when he’s unsupervised.
4. Remove the shackles. Dogs that are chained, tethered or otherwise tied up become stressed. Their feelings of vulnerability and protectiveness increase, which ramps up their potential to be aggressive. If you need to confine your dog occasionally outside the house, fencing the entire yard or a section of yard is the way to go. A fence keeps your dog safe inside your yard, and prevents kids and other animals from interacting with your pet unsupervised.
5. Exercise control. Nearly a quarter of fatal bites are delivered by dogs that are running loose and off their owner’s property. Dogs are territorial, and if your dog is allowed to run loose around the neighborhood, her perceived territory is greatly expanded from your address. She could decide to defend her ‘turf’ in a neighbor’s yard or the playground down the street.
   That’s why you must control your dog at all times when she is away from home. Keep your pet secure on a leash, and if you can’t control her even when she’s leashed, allow another family member to step in until your dog is trained to behave on lead and consistently obeys your verbal commands.
6. Nurture good health. A dog that doesn’t feel well -- is aching or in pain -- is more apt to snap at an unsuspecting person or animal. Keep your dog healthy throughout his life with a species-appropriate diet, plenty of heart-thumping exercise, regular at-home exams and wellness checkups with your veterinarian.

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• Vets warn against banning dangerous dogs (news.theage.com.au)
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• Research finds children can't recognise dangerous dogs (money.marksandspencer.com)
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Love conquers all

Here is an article that touches my heart.  Please read this and the others you will find at Best Friends News.
Saving a dog, no matter the health or age is always an act of love.  This couple personifies that act.

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August 8, 2011 : 3:37 PM ET

By David Dickson
Falling in love with an animal is easy, and often entirely unexpected. You walk into a room, stare into a pair of big brown eyes, and that’s all there is to it: a sudden and powerful love that lasts a lifetime. That very thing happened to Bruce and Nancy Palmer when they met Maddy, a former puppy mill dog who came to Best Friends recently through the Pup My Ride program. “I was pretty much smitten from the first time I saw her,” says Bruce.

Maddy

They were certainly interested in adopting. When they learned Maddy had a history of cancer, however, Bruce explains that he and Nancy experienced at least a moment’s hesitation. Already 9 years old, Maddy (formerly Teva) had a cancerous lump that vets removed at the Sanctuary. The medical team at Best Friends explained that Maddy could have four months or several years left. It was impossible to know. In the end, Maddy’s health history didn’t sway Bruce and Nancy for long. They decided to adopt.

“If she’s going to have four months, she’s going to have a good four months with us,” says Bruce. “She’s going to have the best life she can have with us.” Besides, Bruce and Nancy remain optimistic she’ll be with them a lot longer than four months. As it turns out, Nancy and Bruce have gone through this before with another Best Friends animal.

Niles

In June of 2009, they adopted Niles the cat from Best Friends. They’d met and fallen in love with him while volunteering at the Sanctuary. Bruce and Nancy volunteer several times each year. When they adopted him, Niles had a clean bill of health. Nearly a year later, though, he developed lymphoma in the stomach and required surgery.

Bruce and Nancy never hesitate to do anything they can for their animals. With Niles, they consulted with a specialty vet in Phoenix, who put Niles on a course of treatment that included surgery and radiation. For quite a while, Niles’ health was Nancy and Bruce’s top priority. All the TLC paid off. Niles is now cancer-free and doing great. “Niles is just Mister Personality,” says Bruce. “Nothing seems to phase him.”

In fact, Niles got to feeling so much better that Bruce and Nancy felt they had room for another animal in the family. As it turns out, this was Maddy’s lucky day.

Bruce and Nancy brought their dog Kody, a 9-year-old they’d adopted from a golden retriever rescue, to meet any possible new pals at Best Friends. Maddy got along perfectly with Kody. Nancy and Bruce knew in their hearts that they wanted to adopt this gentle spirit, no matter her health history. They haven’t looked back since.

Maddy snoozes with her best friends.

“With Maddy, the day she got to our house it was like she’d been there forever,” says Bruce. That included making fast friends with the two cats in the house, Niles and Lucy. Kody prefers to ignore the cats, but with Maddy, that just won’t fly. She loves the cats! Sometimes she even startles them accidentally when they’re snoozing on the bed and she leaps up for an impromptu snuggle session. They’re not used to having a dog around who wants to hang out so often.

Maddy loves exploring every inch of her new 5-acre yard, yet even then she prefers doing so right next to Bruce as they walk together. She adores playing fetch and would probably chase tennis balls for hours at a stretch if given the chance. In other words, this former puppy mill dog is having the time of her life in the home she’s always deserved.

“None of us know how much time we have,” points out Bruce. “Every day is this incredible gift.”

Donate!
By giving to Best Friends, you are helping to save a life! All the animals at the Sanctuary receive all the TLC they need to be the best companion animals ever!

Adopt!
We have pets of every breed, temperament and size looking for their perfect forever homes! Check out our Adorable Adoptables.

Become a Champion!
Help a homeless pet today! By becoming a Champion of Love, you can help save lives in your free time!

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How to Keep your pet safe in the heat.

I received this information in an email and I feel that it is timely and useful information for pet owners.  I am reposting it here for you.  Of course, there is a link to a product, but that is to be expected in some emails.  I have included the link also, because I believe he is offering a product that is beneficial for all pets.  I firmly believe that vitamins and minerals are required to be supplemented due to our diet choices and the way food is processed today--even pet food.  I hope this information will give you pause and help you keep your loved one safe from this horrid heatwave.

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1. AVOID the car- never leave your pet in one. The temperature can rise to dangerous levels within 10 minutes- EVEN if the windows are open. In practice I have seen heatstroke develop in 15 minutes, especially with the brachycephalic breeds ( pushed in faces)

2. Keep your pet hydrated, and in the shade. Much the same as us, especially during the peak sun hours. Provide plenty of fresh cool water, and if you have air conditioning, get your pet in it.

3. AVOID strenuous exercise during the HOT sunny hours. Try and do your dog walking early morning or late at night. Both of my dogs, Lewis and Jessie literally stop moving in the heat!

4. STAY off the HOT road- I have had dogs in the past with damaged paws from sun heated ashphalt. IF it is too hot for you to walk on it with bare feet, then it is TOO hot for your dog.

5. Offer frozen treats- I often freeze a Kong filled with peanut butter. I have made frozen yummy Ultimate Canine 'dogsicles' which my dogs LOVE.

6. There are specific products that you can get to keep your pet cool- such as long lasting KOOL vests, although I find plain old common sense is a BETTER way to go...if your dog gets too HOT offer cold water, shade, and air conditioning.

7. Signs of Heat Stroke:

The signs depend upon the extent of heat stroke. In the early stages, your pet will pant rapidly, have thick, ropey saliva, and have bright red gums. His body temperature will be between 104-106°F.

As the body temperature climbs above 106°F, your pet will go into shock with subsequent organ shutdown.

He will have pale gums, be weak and dizzy, with vomiting and diarrhea. The brain becomes affected and he may seizure or fall into a coma. In this case, he requires immediate, life-saving veterinary intervention.

The normal body temperature of a dog or cat ranges between 38 - 39°C or 103°F. Our pets maintain this temperature through panting, however sometimes they are unable to lose enough heat. Dogs and cats probably do suffer from heat cramps and heat exhaustion like us humans but the symptoms are mild and we don't recognize them. The condition that we see is heatstroke, and it may cause the death of a pet.


8. TO THE VET ASAP. If you suspect severe heatstroke and your pet has collapsed, get your pet immediate veterinary care. In this case, the organs may be shutting down and he needs specialized care to survive. While in transit it is important to continue to apply cool wet towels to the back of the neck and groin area.

9. WHAT'S THE TEMP? Use a rectal thermometer and find your pet's exact temperature: if it is 104°F or higher, he has heatstroke, and you need to take action.

10. COOL DOWN. Run cold water over the back of your pet's head. Place cold packs wrapped in towels between the back legs, on the belly and in the armpits. Wet towels can be used instead. You can use a garden hose to run the water over the back of his head. 




P.S. Those 'dogsicles' I mentioned are VERY yummy according to my expert tasters ( Lewis and Jessie)...

You cat owners out there with hot cats can also make 'catsicles'

The secret ingredient?

My supplement.

You can get a 50% OFF trial bottle to make hundreds of healthy, and tasty dog and cat 'beat the heat' frozen treats by going here:

http://www.thedogsupplement.com

http://www.thecatsupplement.com

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