Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Safe

 With all the news going around about this "mysterious" illness affecting dogs, it seems like a good time to talk about routine pet care and staying ahead of any problems that may occur.

We discussed this illness before in the previous post and you can read that here.

When you adopt a pet, it is a life-long (for the pet) commitment. You assume total responsibility for the care and health of that animal. In return, the pet will love you and look up to you and obey you. We all know that having a pet is a wonderful experience. Pets enrich your life more than anyone can say.

One of the things we need to do is be organized about keeping them healthy, the same way we do for keeping our children healthy and safe. In that vein, you need some type of way to keep up with routine health items.  Having a checklist for the normal and routine things you need to do is a time saver and I have created a simple checklist for you here.  Just click this link to get a copy. 

As for this "mystery illness" going around, there are some things you can do to be proactive and try to protect your pet. 

1. Know your pet's normal demeanor--By being familiar with what is normal behavior, you will be alerted when something is "off".

Here are a list of things to look for:

Dog respiratory illness symptoms include:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing or nasal whistling
• Dehydration
• Difficulty exercising
• Fever
• Nasal or eye discharge
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy

Experts encourage dog owners to contact their veterinarians immediately if any of the symptoms occur, especially those that can lead to pneumonia.

2. Make sure you are feeding quality food to your pet.  I am aware that we all are suffering from this economy, but food is really not a good place to cut back.  We really are what we eat, so quality in makes quality life.

3.Try to limit or eliminate totally having your pet interacting with strange or unfamiliar animals. Just like during the pandemic, we had to limit our interactions with others.  Pets can't wear masks or use antiseptice hand cleaners, so the next best thing is to keep them isolated as much as possible.

4. If your pet goes to a groomer or a daycare facility, be sure to ask them about the measures they are taking to prevent outbreaks of illness to pets there. They should be aware of this situation and they should be doing something to prevent their clients from becoming sick.

5. Have the numbers of both your regular veterinarian as well as a 24 hour ER veterinarian available in case you need them.  In emergencies, every second matters and you don't want to lose time searching for these.

6. If you pet becomes sick, put that pet into some type of quarentine if you are a multiple pet household.  There is so much unknown about this illness that you don't want to take any chances with your family.

7. Don't panic. Your pet will respond to your emotional state and become agitated and frightened if you are in a frenzy. Remain calm, treat the symptoms and get your pet seen by the vet as soon as humanly possible.

8. Know that this illness requires agressive treatment and the cost will be high, so be prepared for the bill.  If possible, have pet insurance on your pet, or at least have a credit account you can use for emergencies.

The news about this illness is not good, except for the number of dogs dying is not astronomically high. There have been deaths but unfortunately it happens. The current thought by vets all across the country is that the sooner you catch it, the better the outcome. So, know your pets.

Resources:

• Reports of mysterious, deadly dog disease now surfacing across Western Washington
• WA veterinarian warns of respiratory illness affecting dogs across nation
• Mysterious and fatal dog respiratory illness now reported in 14 states: See the map.

Welcoming a New Pet

So you have decided to get a pet for the very first time.  Do you know what you need to have on hand and how to make your new pet comfortable in his/her new surroundings? Pets are pets, so for the sake of this post, I will refer to dogs/puppies. 

When you bring them into your home for the first time, they will be nervous, maybe even scared.  This is all new to them.  They may have been separated from others who made them feel safe.  They are not sure of you yet.  It is quite a lot for a pet to take in all at once.

Because of all that, you need to have a plan in place to help your new pet adjust quickly and safely to the new surroundings, to the new family, to all the new rules and to the loss of everything they have known up until you brought them home. 

A Guide to Helping Them Feel at Home

Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you've adopted a puppy, kitten, bird, or even a reptile, it's essential to create a nurturing and comfortable environment for them. Helping your new companion adjust to their new surroundings requires patience, understanding, and a well-thought-out approach. In this blog post, we'll explore the steps to get a new pet comfortable at home, focusing on their acclimation to the new environment.

1. Prepare Their Space:

Before bringing your new pet home, it's important to prepare a dedicated space for them. This area should include their bed or crate, food and water bowls, litter box, toys, and any other necessary items specific to their needs. This space will serve as their safe haven, giving them a sense of security and familiarity amidst the unfamiliarity of their new surroundings.

2. Introduce Gradually:

Upon arriving home, give your new pet some time to explore their dedicated space at their own pace. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention or exposure to the entire house right away. Allow them to adjust to their immediate surroundings and gradually introduce them to other areas of your home over time. This will help prevent them from feeling overwhelmed and anxious.

3. Establish a Routine:

Pets thrive on routine, as it provides them with a sense of stability and predictability. Establish a consistent daily routine for feeding, exercise, playtime, and rest. Regular mealtimes and exercise sessions will help your pet feel secure and give them a sense of structure in their new environment.

4. Provide Socialization Opportunities:

Socialization is crucial for pets to develop confidence and adapt to new situations. Introduce your new pet to family members, friends, and other pets (if applicable) gradually and under controlled circumstances. Encourage positive interactions, rewarding your pet for calm and friendly behavior. Remember to respect your pet's boundaries and give them time to adjust to social interactions at their own pace.

5. Positive Reinforcement:

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when it comes to helping your pet adjust to their new home. Use treats, praise, and affection to reward good behavior and desirable habits. This positive association will help your pet feel more comfortable and secure in their surroundings, reinforcing the idea that their new home is a safe and loving environment.

6. Patience and Understanding:

Each pet is unique and will require varying amounts of time to adjust to their new home. Be patient and understanding throughout the acclimation process. Some pets may exhibit signs of stress or anxiety initially, but with time, love, and reassurance, they will gradually become more comfortable. Avoid scolding or punishment, as this can hinder their progress and damage the trust you're building.

7. Enrichment and Stimulation:

Providing mental and physical stimulation is essential to keep your pet engaged and content. Offer a variety of toys, scratching posts, and puzzles to keep them entertained. Engage in interactive play sessions and provide opportunities for exercise to help release any pent-up energy. This will not only help your pet adjust but also foster a strong bond between you and your new companion.

8. Regular Veterinary Care:

Schedule a visit to the veterinarian soon after bringing your new pet home. A thorough health check-up will ensure your pet is in good physical condition and allow you to address any potential health concerns promptly. Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and preventive treatments, will help keep your pet healthy and prevent any future complications.

Bringing a new pet home is an exciting journey, and ensuring their comfort in their new environment is vital for their overall well-being. By following these steps and showering them with love, patience, and positive reinforcement, you'll pave the way for a strong bond and a happy life together. Remember, each pet is unique, so adjust your approach based on their individual needs and personalities. With time, your new pet will blossom into a cherished member of your family, and your home will become their forever haven.