Preparing Your Home for a New Puppy

Thursday, January 7th, 2010

Preparing Your Home for a New Puppy

 While excitement and anticipation may be at the top of the list when bringing home a new puppy, preparing for him should rate highly on the list.  Just as you would need to prepare a home when you have a baby, pet owners also need to take special precautions when “puppy-proofing.”

Before you start preparing your home for a puppy, you should take into consideration the yard and garden.  First, check fences and gates to be sure there are no holes large enough for him to get his head stuck in.  Watch for litter and/or trash cans, which can be tipped over, giving your new puppy the chance to eat things that he shouldn’t.  And finally, know where you are treating your lawn and garden with pesticides, and then forbid your puppy from going there.  In addition, make sure that all chemicals and other harmful products are put away out of your new friend’s reach. 

Next, you will need to investigate your home and pretend that a small toddler is coming to live with you!  Like toddlers, puppies will find everything new and exciting.  They don’t know when something is dangerous or can’t tell if that “interesting” remote control will get them into trouble. 

In addition, when preparing your home for the new puppy, you should keep these tips in mind:  

• Be sure all electrical and cable wires are either in a space your puppy will not be or hide them under rugs or carpets.  Do not keep wires where your puppy could chew and gnaw on them.
• Just like a toddler, your puppy will explore every element, including low cupboards.  Just when you thought having a puppy was easier than a child, he will learn to nudge those cupboard doors open!  Consider installing locks or sort through them and only keep safe objects in low areas.

 So far, so good, right?  Well, that’s only if you remember that in reality your puppy has the mind of a small child.  Soon you’ll be getting ready for afternoon walks to the park, 3 a.m. trips to the bathroom, (more officially, outside) and lots of cuddling.  So, while preparing your home for your puppy, think of him as a member of your family.  Buy him a bed made from plastic, which is more resistant to chewing.  Line it with comfortable bedding—washable of course—and then place it in a special place just for him.  Make sure it is somewhere he will be safe and comfortable.

Preparing your home for your new puppy is a lot of work, so you may consider buying a puppy pen until everything is taken care of.  Just like a baby’s playpen, a puppy pen will offer an area for him to play without roaming the house.  By doing this, you are also saving your furniture and other objects from being chewed on.  (Don’t worry—he’ll eventually grow out of this!)

Another important thing to think about when preparing your home for your puppy is any stairs that you may have in the house.  If you have an open basement or second floor, use baby gates to confine his run area to prevent harm.  Babies and puppies alike are not aware of danger and don’t realize that they could fall down steps and hurt themselves. 

The most important thing to think about while preparing your home for the new puppy is just like a child, they will need cuddling, attention and there will definitely be a lot of wet kisses!

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Quality Time Spent with Your Dog

Thursday, January 7th, 2010

How to spend more quality time with your dogs

Dogs have their own personalities.  They get bored, hyper, show excitement and even sadness.  This is why it is important to give your dog quality time each day.  Everyone has a busy schedule these days, and sometimes that means your dogs walk gets pushed to the next day.  A lot of behavior problems are caused by dogs having too much energy and no way of releasing it.

What does a dog do to keep its self busy?   They chew on your shoes, tear up the couch, chase their tail, bark at everything, jump on you and don’t listen.   If you can make time to spend with your dogs, you may find that it’s a bonding experience for the both of you.

Here are a few ways to make extra time for your dogs.

√ Get up an hour earlier to take “Fido” for a morning jog. This not only helps the dog drain energy, but helps you stay in shape as well.

√  Don’t sit down and relax after coming home from work, instead walk in and take your dogs for a nice long walk. If you relax, chances are you will be too tired to get up and take a long walk.

√  After dinner make a family event, by spending some time outside playing fetch or obedience training.

All dogs are better behaved when they can drain their energy.  By getting them involved in activities it will help your dog be balanced and happy.  There are a great number of fun things you can do with your dogs.

√  One hour daily walks

√  Going to a dog park

√  Hiking

√  Competitions, such as Dock Dogs

√  Dog Training

√  Visiting with other dogs

√  Exercise

√  Playing hide and seek or other games

√ Taking them along on camping trips, or family outings

√  Grooming

Your dog is a part of the family and they need quality time to bond with you.  The more time you spend with them, the more they will want to please you.  Each dog is different and enjoys different things. Take some time to figure out what your dog loves to do.  If perhaps your dog is a tracker, then hide a treat in the yard so she can find it.  You will give your dog a fun and healthy activity to drain all that built up energy.  Once you start making this a routine you may find her sleeping more, getting into less trouble, and being an all around better behaved dog.  Making some extra time just takes a few changes in your daily schedule.  You will come to find it’s well worth it in the end!

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Infectious Diseases that Affect Cats

Friday, December 18th, 2009

Most common diseases found in cats, can be prevented just by keeping your cat in the house, and keeping their vaccines updated.  Most cats begin receiving vaccines as kittens, typically around 6 weeks old.  Kittens need boosters, and adult cats require annual booster’s against most of these diseases. It’s good to be aware of the viruses cats can get.  Here are some common diseases and how to prevent them.

• Feline Cancer   -This disease is most common in older cats.  Cancer is an unrestrained cell division and growth.  It normally starts as a small tumor and gets bigger over time.  If you feel a lump on your cat, be sure to get it checked out by a Vet.  The most common signs are chronic weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, coughing, lameness, oral odor, and tumors.  Most cancerous tumors require surgery with treatment afterwards.  Best prevention of this is to pay attention to your cat’s health and behavior changes.
• Feline Distemper – Is a viral infection, affecting younger cats less than six weeks of age.  It is spread by direct contact with cats that have it.  Most common signs are depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, and dehydration.  Vaccines offer the safest protection, and kittens should be vaccinated at 9 weeks and again at 12 weeks.  After that you should do it annually.
• Rabies – A viral infection spread by contact with saliva of an infected animal.  The best prevention is to get your kitten vaccinated at 12 weeks, then again at 18 weeks.  Boosters should be given every 3 years.
• Feline Leukemia (FELV) – Caused by a virus and affects households with more than one cat.  The virus affects salivary secretions and is spread by direct contact.  Signs to watch for are fever, depression, failing appetite, and enlarged lymph nodes.  Kittens may die if not treated. Vaccines are available and will prevent FELV.  Interesting fact about this virus is that 30% of all severe illnesses in cats are caused by the Leukemia virus.
• Feline Rhino virus – This particular virus is in the respiratory tract and is very common. If not treated it can cause death or life long problems. Signs include sneezing, discharge from eyes, poor appetite, and chronic tearing. You can prevent this virus by getting two vaccines that are required, and you can get it for all ages of cats.   Should be revaccinated annually.
• Feline Infectious peritonitis (FIP) – This disease can cause abdomen and chest to accumulate fluid.  Also causes fever, lack of appetite, depression, weight loss, and organ failure which may result in death. Prevention method is to get a blood test done to determine if your cat has been exposed. There is now a FIP vaccine that can be given if the cat has been exposed, but routine immunization against FIP is not available at this time.

There are many other diseases that affect cats, and it’s always best to see a Veterinarian if you think your cat may have any of these symptoms.

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What to Know Before Getting an Exotic Pet

Thursday, December 17th, 2009

Pets play a big role in our lives.  They are our companions, and best friends, so it’s our job to make sure they get the proper care to keep them happy and healthy.

The meaning of exotic pet is basically “non-traditional” pets.  Owning and caring for these types of animals require a great deal of research and time.  Without it, you could end up spending a fortune in vet bills.  Not to mention finding an exotic vet can be challenging.  Not a lot of vets cater to exotics, and those who do may be costly.

If you have decided to purchase any exotic critter, here are some tips that you should know.

• Exotic animals need special daily care, including bonding and enrichment.

• Each exotic animal, have their own unique set of needs to keep them healthy.

• A Chinchilla, for example, will need a dust bath on a weekly basis, and if they happen to get wet, they can become very ill.

• Sugar gliders need a very specific diet, and without the proper nutrients they can end up getting hind leg paralysis.

• Guinea pigs need vitamin C on a daily bases, to keep them healthy.

• Ferrets need to be bathed often.

• In certain states, it is illegal to own certain pets.  It is important for you to find out the laws of your state before purchasing any exotic pet.  You can find websites that will tell you what animals are allowed in your state.

• Exotic critters have individual personalities, and if given the proper feeding and care, they can make wonderful and fun pets to have.

Once you have done your homework on the pet of your choosing, you will have the task of finding a breeder or pet shop that carries the critter you are interested in.  It may be easier to find a Dumbo Rat, or Hedgehog at your local pet store, but finding a Skunk or Coatimundi may be a different story.  Owning these types of pets is expensive, and requires a lot more time than your more traditional pets.

Owning an exotic pet will be tons of fun for you and your family, if you put in the time to pick the right one for you.  Do your research and find out which exotic pet is the right fit for your lifestyle.  Having a not so normal pet can be a rewarding experience, but to keep the pet happy and healthy, you have to follow the diet requirements, and all the needs of that specific pet.  Once you find the perfect match, your household will feel complete.

 

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Pets that are kid friendly

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009

No matter what age they are, kids always want a pet.  Having a pet is a great way to teach children responsibility, and develop their social skills.  When considering a pet for your kids, know that most of the responsibility will be put on you.  No matter how big or small the animal may be it should be a family decision to insure the best care from everyone.  Research needs to be done regarding care of the animal, as well as any potentially dangerous issues that may arise later.  Also consider allergies and the cost of acquiring that pet. You child’s age should also be a factor when researching your choices.  Below are the top three choices that I feel make the best pets for kids.

• Dog –The most popular choice of a first pet is the dog.  Dogs are very loyal, friendly, love affection, and can handle rough or hyper children.  However if you have a busy life, a dog can become a burden.  Dogs require daily walks, attention, and training.  Before you choose a dog, be sure to research breeds that fit your family’s needs, and temperament.  Puppies are very cute, but chew, nip while playing, and need potty training.  Puppies need a lot more attention than adult dogs.  If you are a busy family, a puppy may not be the right fit for you.  Older dogs tend to be calmer, and some are already trained.  You can always find animal shelters and rescues that will let you bond with the dog before brining it home. Consider that a dog will live fourteen or more years, so getting a dog is a big commitment.  Also consider vet bills, routine vaccines, spaying or neutering, food, and all the other bills that come along with a dog.  Dogs can be expensive, but can make great companions for kids of all ages.

• Cat – Cats are very friendly, and are a lot of fun to play with. They are playful, easy to maintain, easily potty trained, and love attention. They do have sharp claws, so it’s important to either invest in soft paws (a soft plastic cap that goes on the cats nails), or declawing.  If declawing is the route you choose, I recommend laser nail removal.  It takes less time to heal and is not as painful.  Cats can be expensive when you factor in the cost of vet bills, routine vaccines, spaying or neutering, and all that goes along with owning a cat.  They do not require as much time spent with them as a dog, and are more independent.  A cat is great for all ages of children to enjoy.

• Rat – Believe it or not, rats make awesome pets. Even though you may be thinking otherwise, rats are extremely docile, gentle, and sweet.  Rats are very social creatures, so when considering a rat be sure to consider two of the same sex. Rats will bond with your child very quickly.  They are extraordinarily smart, and can be litter box trained.  They also respond to their name, and can be taught tricks.  Young kids should be supervised while handling their rat.  Many people believe that rats are dirty, but in reality they are actually incredibly hygienic.  Some people find that if they have allergies to other pets, such as dogs or cats, they do not have reactions with rats.  If allergies do become an issue you can also get hairless rats.  You will need to clip their nails every month because they do tend to get sharp and may scratch your child.  They can live in a twenty gallon tank, and are not very expensive to keep.  Rats can live two to four years if given the proper care and love.

Other great pets to consider are Chinchillas, Guinea pigs, Leopard Geckos, Bearded Dragons, Ball pythons, Corn snakes, Tropical fish, Betas, and perhaps even a hand raised Cockatiel.  Always do your research to find the best match for your household.  Your child’s temperament is the best way to choose.  If you have a hyper child, then a fragile Leopard Gecko would not be the right choice.  Animals enrich our lives, and letting your children learn how to care for another living creature, is a wonderful lesson that will stay with them forever!

 

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Choosing the Right Dog for Apartment Living

Sunday, December 13th, 2009

As a Veterinary Technician, one of the most often asked questions I get is how to choose the right dog.  Without knowing your living situation, this is a hard question to answer.  Today, I am going to give you a list of dogs that I feel are best for apartment living.  The most important thing to think about when getting a new dog is how much time you will have to spend with it.  Next is where to purchase it?  I always suggest adopting from a shelter or breeder. Never buy a dog from a pet store because, they get their puppies from Puppy mills.  You need to research the breeds that have the best temperament for your needs.  If you have children, it’s important to get a dog that will be good around them.   After that, you need to consider health issues for certain breeds, and the cost of Vet care.  I would urge you to look into mix breeds as well.  Just because it’s not a pure breed does not mean they will not make a good dog.  The following dogs are my picks that do well in an apartment setting.

1. Japanese Chin  – These dogs are ideal for apartment living.  Japanese Chins are gentle, friendly, and obedient.  They have no odor, rarely bark and love to be held.  Full grown Chins weigh 7 pounds.
2. Shih Tzu – This beautiful dog is quiet, easy going, very trusting, great with kids and needs minimal exercise.  They weigh 16 pounds fully grown.  Require weekly brushing.
3. Pekingese – Their small size makes them a good choose for apartment life.  They do not require a yard and need minimal exercise.  Pekingese are intelligent, good natured and opinionated.  May not be the best dog around small children.  They also need weekly brushing.
4. Chihuahua – These little guys are perfect for living in small quarters.  Chihuahua’s are protective, confident, brave, curious, playful and not good for small children.  They only weigh 4 pounds fully grown.
5. Yorkshire Terrier – These darlings don’t require a lot of exercise.  They are intelligent, assertive, make good watch dogs, travel well, and have a big personality in a small package.  A full grown Yorki weighs 7 pounds.
6. Boston Terrier – Known as the American gentleman, these dogs make incomparable companions.  They can be mischievous, affectionate, good with other dogs, and great with kids.  They only need moderate exercise and require minimal grooming.  Only get 24 pounds fully grown.
7. Pug – Pugs are big eaters and are said to be a lot of dog in a small space.  They adapt easily, are great family dogs, even tempered, and outgoing, with a loving disposition.  They do shed but require little grooming and posses a great charm.
8. Miniature Schnauzer – Always willing to please, these dogs do love to bark and be a watch dog.  They are fearless, alert, intelligent, strong and quick to learn. They are obedient and easy to maintain.  At fully grown they get to be 18 pounds.

Written by: Sheena Diane Matos
Reference: “Legacy of the dog”, (Author), Tetsu Yamazaki

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Introducing a New Cat to Other Resident Cats

Saturday, December 12th, 2009

Cats that live in the same house may not become the best of friends, but usually learn to at least tolerate each other with a minimum of fighting. Commit today to taking the time it takes to properly introduce your cats to each other in order to prevent permanent fearful and aggressive problems from developing.   Some cats can be best friends in as little as 30 minutes, but don’t be anxious to “test” out how the cats will do together without first providing a proper introduction.  First impressions can be lasting impressions when it comes to cats
The range of relationships that can develop when a new cat is introduced to a household can run the full spectrum from best friends who share and do everything together to all out war. Cats are territorial, and some are clearly more territorial than others, so the time required for the introduction process varies greatly depending on the cats involved.

Introducing cats who are strangers to each other should be done in a gradual systematic fashion in which pleasurable experiences (food/attention/play) are associated with the other cat(s). The key is having patience with the process and knowing that the process takes time to accomplish and you may be required to repeat steps in the introduction process more than once.

Throughout the introduction process, speak quietly and calmly to the cats and move slowly. Praise them gently when they are tolerant of each other’s presence, using words, toys and food as positive reinforcement. Never scold or use harsh or loud tones when they are together, and avoid anything that may associate unpleasantness with being near each other. Give special attention to the resident cat(s) to reassure them of your loyalty and love and help minimize jealousy. Give the new cat loving attention only during the resident cat’s absence until such time as they become true friends.

Introducing A New Cat to Other Cats
1. It is often helpful to wash both your cat(s) and the new cat in the same shampoo so that they smell similar to each other (ok the idea of washing a cat sounds rather detrimental to me, but I read that on the internet). Also, applying a spray of Feliway to each cat & his/her bedding daily is also reported to help.  Some of my clients have feliway air fresheners to help prevent spraying.  It is cat pheromones – it’s sole purpose it to provide a calming feeling to cats and it helps with many different cat “issues”.

 
2. Add some scratching posts or cardboard with some cat nip to relax the cats and keep them entertained.  It’ll also help share their scent.

3. Confine the new cat to one room with its litter box, food, water, and a bed. Feed the present cats and the newcomer near either side of the door to this room. Don’t put the food so close to the door that the cats are too upset by each other to eat. This will help start things out right by associating something enjoyable (eating) with each other’s presence. Gradually move the dishes closer to the door until the cats can eat calmly directly on either side. Feed the cats in each area with wet food twice daily, and play with the cats in each area at least twice daily. Setting up a schedule of feeding treats of wet food and a play time routine minimizes anxiety and makes the cats feel more secure.

4. Playtime is a special time where you can cement a bond between you and the new cat. Many experts suggest using a feline flyer, fishing rod toy, toy on a string, or other similar toy which allows the new cat(s) to maintain a distance while getting to know you and, once the cats are introduced, also distracts their attention from each other while maintaining a distance from each other.  I’ve noticed that more playtime reduces most cat issues and is a great invitation for cats to get to know each other at a fun time.  I recommend trying lots of different toys – some cats are partial to feathers, others to big stuffed fluffy things, others to things that roll quickly, some to laser lights, and some just to fuzzy mice.   Usually a cat that shows little interest in one toy just hasn’t found the right toy yet.

5. Next, use two door stops to prop open the door just enough to allow the cats to see and smell each other.  Or use a tower of baby gate, plexiglass, or a large cage.  Repeat the whole process above.

6. Switch sleeping blankets between the new cat and resident cats after a couple of days so they have a chance to become accustomed to each other’s scent. Also put the scented blankets underneath the food dishes.

7. Once the new cat is using its box and eating regularly while confined, let it have free time in the house while confining the other cats. This switch provides another way for the cats to experience each other’s scent without a face to face meeting. It also allows the newcomer to become familiar with its new surroundings without being frightened by other animals.

8. Avoid any interactions between the cats which result in either fearful or aggressive behavior. If these responses are allowed to become habit, they can be difficult to change. It’s better to introduce the animals to each other so gradually that neither cat becomes afraid or aggressive. You can expect mild forms of these behaviors, but don’t give them the opportunity to intensify. If either cat becomes fearful or aggressive, separate the cats ( throw a blanket over each cat, wrapping the blanket around the cat before picking him up if necessary ) and start the process over.

9. Continue good habits even after the cats are getting along.  Play regularly, and give each cat individual attention.  Trim nails regularly to avoid accidental scratches.  Clean the litter boxes more frequently than before, and address any accidents immediately to avoid permanent new bad behaviors.  Make sure that none of the cats is being “ambushed” by another while trying to use the box.  If the cats are picky about their litters be sure to provide the right type for each (clay vs scoopable vs crystals, etc).  Provide cat grass & catnip periodically.

10. Successful cohabitations require patience and time.   Don’t push or expect things to be perfect overnight!   Be patient and remember your cats will pick up on your patience and positive attitude.

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Dogs of the White House

Friday, December 11th, 2009

Dogs have been in the white house for as long as we’ve had presidents. As a matter of fact, only fifteen presidents have not had dogs. In honor of National Dogs in Politics day, coming up September 23rd, below is a list of some of the most recent presidents who have had dogs living in the White House.

1. Barack Obama – He promised his daughters a puppy if he became president. Now occupying the White House alongside them is a six month old Portuguese Water Dog who they call Bo. Bo has appeared in the news several times since he joined the White house family.
2. George W. Bush – Owner of three dogs, two being Scottish Terriers by the names of Barney and Mss Beazley. They also had Spot, a Springer Spaniel who will go down in history for being the very first dog to be a second generation White House canine. Millie was George Bush’s dog and she had puppies while he was in office so Spot was given to George W. Bush.
3. Bill Clinton – Only had one dog named Buddy who was a chocolate Labrador Retriever.
4. George Bush – Had two Springer Spaniels, Millie and one of her puppies named Ranger.
5. Ronald Reagan – Possessed two dogs, one being a Bouvier des Flandres named Lucky and the other a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel by the name of Rex.
6. Jimmy Carter – Had one dog, named Grits but was given away shortly after arriving.
7. Gerald Ford – Owned two dogs; Liberty, a Golden retriever and Misty, one of her pups.
8. Richard Nixon – Proud owner of four doggies; Checkers (a Cocker Spaniel), Vicky (a Poodle), Pasha (a mixed terrier), and King Timahoe (an Irish Setter).
9. Lyndon B. Johnson – Not known for picking out the most creative names, President Johnson owned four Beagles by the names of Beagle, Little Beagle, Him and Her. He also had a white Collie named Blanco and a Mongrel named Yuki.
10. John F. Kennedy – Perhaps the most prolific pet owner in the White House, JFK had nine dogs. Starting with Charlie (a Welsh Terrier), Shannon (an Irish Cocker Spaniel), Wolf and Pushunka, both mixed breeds, and Clipper the German Shepherd. Then came Butterfly, White tips, Blackie and Streaker, all offspring of Pushinka and Charlie.
11. Dwight D. Eisenhower – Kept only one canine, a Weimaraner by the name of Heidi.
12. Harry S. Truman – Kept two dogs while living at the white house. The first was a Cocker Spaniel named Feller, who got the nick name “the unwanted dog” because shortly after the spaniel was given to Truman he was re-homed. Later he acquired Mike, an Irish Setter, who was also given away.
13. Franklin D. Roosevelt – Roosevelt had seven dogs; Major (his German Shepherd), Winks (a Llewellyn Setter), Tiny (the English Sheepdog), President (a Great Dane), Blaze the Mastiff and his two Scottish Terries known as Meggie and Fala. Fala was known worldwide and was the star of the MGM Hollywood movie about the typical doggie day at the White House. Fala also became an honorary army private for contributing one dollar to the war effort, which started a trend for the rest of the United States.
14. Herbert Hoover – Had ten dogs; Pat and King Tut were his German Shepherds. Big Ben and Sonnie were both Fox Terriers. Glen was a Scotch Collie, Yukon was an Eskimo dog, Patrick, an Irish Wolfhound, Eaglehurst was a Setter, and lastly was Weejie, the Norwegian Elkhound.
15. Calvin Coolidge – There was Boston Beans the Bulldog, Palo Alto the Bird dog, Calamity Jane the Shetland Sheepdog, Paul Pry an Airedale Terrier, followed by Rob Roy and Prudence Prim the white Collies.
16. Warren G. Harding – Owned Laddie Boy, an Airedale terrier, and the first true celebrity dog of the White House. At six months old, he was the first dog to receive regular daily news coverage. Harding loved Laddie so much that he threw birthday parties for him, inviting all the neighborhood dogs.

You can learn more about all the pets of the White House by visiting http://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/

 

 

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Thinking of Buying a Puppy or Kitten from the Pet Store?

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

Have you ever heard of a puppy mill?  Puppy mills are breeding facilities that produce purebred puppies and kittens in hefty numbers.  Often these puppies and kittens are sold across the country to pet stores.  Puppy mills have been around for decades, and the reason these dog and cat breeding operations can continue to flourish, is because people always want to buy the cute puppy looking at them at the pet store, or the beautiful Persian kittens bouncing around the cage.  These canine and feline breeding facilities keep dogs and cats in shockingly pitiful conditions.  Dogs live their entire lives in cages, without any walks, human contact, proper grooming, no veterinary care, barely any food or water, and no socialization what so ever.  Dogs are usually housed in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, and all they do is breed, and have puppies.  Female dogs are bred at every opportunity possible, and given no recovery time between litters.  When the males and females are unable to perform their task, they are killed.  Hundreds of thousands of dogs suffer in puppy mills every day.  They are over bred and in most cases are the subjects on inbreeding.  These dogs are used to make pure profit from the puppy sales, with no regard to the dog’s health or well being.  They are bred over and over again, until they die.  Breeding is their only purpose.  Several hundreds of thousands of puppies are shipped cross country to be sold in pet stores.  The results of these facilities are adorable puppies that have generations of hereditary defects.  Puppies that arrive at the pet stores usually carry a lot of diseases including:

• Chronic Diarrhea
• Parvovirus
• Heart worms
• Mange
• Upper respiratory infections
• Distemper
• Kennel cough
• Giardia
• Pneumonia
• Fleas and ticks
• Intestinal parasites

These are only some of the problems that the puppies may face in their lifetime.
We can take a stand and help prevent these places from staying in business.  One way to do this is by eliminating the demand for these puppies.  Support the ASPCA or Humane Society in getting legislation passed, that will ensure the proper care for these pets, and that they are raised in healthy conditions.

Here are some ways we can help stop these Puppy mills:

• Do not buy a puppy from a pet store unless it is associated with the ASPCA.
• Boycott pet stores who sell puppies
• Never buy a puppy from someone who will not allow you to see where it lives, and won’t let you meet both of its parents
• Don’t ever buy a puppy from a website online.  If you can’t meet the dog, chances are it’s a puppy mill.  Truly responsible breeders will want to meet the family to which their puppy is going.
• Buy a puppy or kitten from a shelter
• Always spay and neuter your pets to eliminate any chances of breeding
• Do research on the place you want to get your pets from.  Contact them more than once, and be sure to look closely at the parent’s health.

If you follow those steps you can help shut down these horrid puppy mills.  Below is a link to a very touching video on you tube.  It gives some more information on puppy mills, and the horrifying conditions these poor animals have to live in.  I hope this will make you think twice before purchasing that cute puppy in the pet store window.  You may feel you need to save him, but in the long run, you are only funding the puppy mills to make more puppies.

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Choosing the Right Food for Senior Pets.

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009

Older pets need more protein then younger ones, so when you are looking for the right food for a senior pet, be sure to check the labels.  Chicken, beef, or lamb should always be your first choices for dogs. Older cats may need more salmon to help bones, and some may need more fat in their diet to regain energy.  There are many brands of food to choose from.  Some are for specific needs, such as bladder issues, or arthritis, and others are just your everyday basic food to help keep our older pets feeling their best.  Here is a list of things to consider when choosing the right food for your older pets.

• Decide whether you prefer to use canned or dried food.  Both can have the same amount of nutrition.  However canned food is more expensive and dried food is more convenient.
• Make sure you know if your pet is allergic to any types of food.
• Older animals sometimes need specialty food.  If they have a bladder infection for instance they would need a food specially formulated to treat that issue.  This will prevent any further damage and help them heal faster.
• Every pet has different needs when it comes to diet, whether your dog has arthritis, or needs more energy, you can most likely find the perfect food to match their needs.  Ask your veterinarian what they recommend.
• Most veterinary clinics will carry pet food.  You can find specialty brands formulated to treat certain needs.  If your animal has a problem, check out what brands your vet clinic sells.  They may be more expensive, but you will find that the problem will heal much quicker, and your senior will be feeling back to normal in no time.
• For everyday pet food, keep in mind that the most expensive brands may not be the best for your pets needs.  Check the labels, and you may find a lot of the same ingredients in both brands.  Know what your pet needs before you go out shopping for their food.  This will save you time and money as well.

Feeding your senior the right food can improve their quality of life, make their coat shinier, keep teeth strong, and give them more energy.  You have hundreds of brands to choose from, so take your time to learn your pet’s needs.  Good luck on finding the right food for your pets.  If you get it right, you will see an immediate difference.  Also remember to always do it gradually.  Give a little bit of the new diet with the old one.  Do this every day so there is more of the new diet with each feeding.  Once you have done this, then you can completely switch to the new one. This gets them used to it without shocking their system.

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