Why help The Animal Humane Society?

 It is estimated there are over 6-8 million dogs and cats in shelters all over the US. More than 3-4 million animals are euthanized  every year. This is just incredible to me as I am reading more and more about these shelters and the animals who enter them.
Low adoption rates are one factor driving the high number of animals in shelters, but every year, millions of dogs and cats  are relinquished by their owners—or rescued from the streets by animal control officers and private citizens—and brought to animal shelters. These circumstances leave shelters and rescue groups with a large number of animals in need of homes.
 To help reduce the number of homeless animals, The United States Humane society works to promote responsible pet ownership and to reduce pet overpopulation through public education, legislation, and support for sterilization programs
 In the 1970s, American shelters euthanized 12-20 million dogs and cats, at a time when there were 67 million pets in homes. Today, shelters euthanize around 4 million animals, while there are more than 135 million dogs and cats in homes.  This enormous decline in euthanasia numbers—from around 25 percent of American dogs and cats euthanized every year to about 3 percent—represents substantial progress. We will make still greater progress by working together to strike at the roots of animal overpopulation.
Most animal shelters have no set time limit for holding an animal. In the vast majority of shelters, decisions about adoption and euthanasia are based on factors that include the temperament and health of the animal, and the space and resources available to humanely house and properly care for the animal.
I believe there are so many animals in need and not enough homes to be placed in.
I also think when a person is wanting a pet they should look into adopting one before buying one.I think this practice makes the heart grow fonder and you are helping one of God's creatures to be loved and nurtured and have a chance at true happiness, not only for the pet but for yourself.

How do you know which pet foods are best?

This is tough because in my experience when my vet gave me a certain food for my dog, I thought because it came from my vet it was the best. After doing some research and finding out what  exactly is in most dog foods I was astounded. Most dog foods have sugar and unhealthy preservatives  making them more appealing to our pets. In turn these foods produce over weight and unhealthy coats as well as skin rashes and allergic reactions.Try to stay away from foods with these preservatives BHT & BHA. These have been shown to cause cancer,kidney disease,pancreatic disease as well as hair loss. Make certain to read food labels and determine which foods have what preservatives. There are many dog foods that say they are Holistic and contain no  byproducts just remember that small print. There are a lot of good choices out there and many manufactures are now aware more consumers are demanding better and more healthy choices for both cats and dogs.
Remember like us daily nutrition and  exercise are key to a happy more healthier pet.

Fashionable furry coats for pets

I was inspired to write about this after reading another article today about skin changes to pets in Wintertime. 
My dog Mocha's skin gets really dry during the winter months just like mine.She will begin scratching and itching due to the changes and the cold. We have bought her several coats for the changing elements.You might want to consider buying a coat for your pet to keep them warm and comfy during the winter months and to keep their skin and coat in top condition.This may seem ridiculous but just because they have fur doesn't mean that's  protection enough. We keep our pets dry and clean. We feed our pets nutritional  foods which protect them  from disease. Why not protect them  from the cold as well?Keep in mind unless your dog is bred for extreme cold and has thick fur,the average dog gets quite cold and will shiver just like us when a cold and brisk wind comes along.
For the winter why not buy them a coat for extra protection?Coats come in great colors and styles from knitted to down just make certain your pet has the right fit. You can measure your pet by having them stand properly and measure from the collar to the tail.Also measure around the dogs body from just behind the elbows to around their stomach.My dog is very picky about coats and seems to like coats that are lighter in weight because she is smaller in stature. You also might want to consider rain boots or snow boots to protect their feet from getting paw damage due to ice and salt on the roads.My dog will not wear anything on her feet,some dogs just don't like their feet touched or it may just be too uncomfotable. So keep that in mind.

Just remember next time you go to put your coat on don't forget your pet's as well.

Apartment Pets

I know I always wanted a dog when living in my first apartment with my husband. We talked about it several times but kept coming to the same conclusion it would be best to get one when we had a house and yard for them.
After doing some research I found that the average apartment dogs are between 5-15 pounds and typically have short hair and compact snouts. The most common are pugs and chihuahuas.
Many people opt to keep cats for the same reasons as they are small and mainly quiet and compact creatures.
 I have pet sat for many couples who live in apartments and their pets are well adjusted as long as they are able to get out and exercise regularly and get some playtime.
Make sure when you are thinking about getting a pet while living in an apartment that it is allowed and you follow the rules for where to bring your pet for walks and designated potty areas.Always curb your dog as this makes a good neighbor and pet owner. Most of all enjoy and love your pet they commonly make the best roommates.

Traveling with Fido

Spring break is coming will you be taking your pet with you to that long sandy beach?
Some great ways to make sure you both have a relaxing and fun vacation are first make sure your dog is healthy enough to travel. Make an appointment with your vet to ensure  all vaccinations are up to date . Also if you have an older pet who requires medication you may want to make arrangements for him to stay home as travel can be stressful on older animals.

You may also want to get updates on shots such as kennel cough and have all paperwork in hand when you leave the  office.
You may never know when you dog may run away so make certain to have dog tags with you name and phone number,even if your dog is micro-chipped  go ahead and get him a collar for extra peace of mind. Also make certain your pet is welcome whether you are going to a family members or place of lodging know ahead of time the rules and regulations, you would hate to get to your destination only to find out you will need to kennel your dog in a strange town.
If nothing else enjoy your time with your pet the memories will last a lifetime.

“The Love That Cures (Solving the Mystery of How Animals Keep Us Healthy)

New research confirms and expands earlier studies indicating a link between pet ownership and a reduced risk of developing heart disease. Results of studies have shown a reduction in triglycerides and cholesterol levels as well as lower systolic blood pressure readings for pet owners rather than non pet owners.When examining the results, researchers tried to determine if there was some factor other than pet ownership that was influencing the outcome. Not so.  A look at lifestyle risk factors also failed to turn up any evidence that could have influenced the findings. Pet owners reported that they were more active, but they also drank more alcohol and ate more take-out food.  While studies continue…pet owners can look at their animal companions with even greater appreciation for the ways they enrich their lives. Animals also give us a much-needed natural outlet for touching and cuddling – especially to those who live alone. So…the next time you find yourself tense or irritable, take a few minutes to play with your pet. You may find that animal companionship is a wonderful prescription for healthy relaxation!

Playtime is important for your cat

Playing is fun, right? So why do we need to know anything else about it, surely that’s is all there is to it. Well it’s true that the main reason we might play with our cat is because it is something fun to do, but for your cat it has a far more important role and is key to their general mental and physical well being. This means that it should be something that all cat owners should spend a little more time thinking about and incorporating into their every day cat care routine, rather than as an occasional playtime.A good substitute to hunting is therefore energetic chasing, stalking and pouncing playtimes, where the cat can engage all their natural instincts into the game and feel stimulated by the play. Unfortunately just leaving a motionless cat toy lying around just doesn’t meet those requirements, so it is important for cat owners to interact with their cats during playtimes. Ideally you should play with your cat at least a couple of times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes each time
Playing with your cat as you can see is much more than just a fun thing to do, it will promote confidence, fitness, reduce boredom and aggression and generally help in your cats over all mental and physical health. As an added bonus, regular play between you and your cat will strengthen the bond you have with each other. Your cat will associate you with fun and excitement and will seek your company out more often than with someone who just feeds them. Over all playtime will benefit everyone involved and should be encouraged throughout a cat lifetime

Why you should hire a Pet Sitter

Pet sitting is becoming very popular. It is a great alternative to bringing your friend to a kennel or doggie daycare.
Think about all the work you have to do in order to plan your trip. Then there's your best friend don't forget about them.
Having a pet sitter is like having a babysitter for your child.they are nurturing and caring .also an expert in their profession because of their love and knowledge of animals.
Instead of bringing your pet to the kennel and having them on a new schedule where they will  have limited exercise your pet  can remain in the safety and security of familiar surroundings,. Also it can reduce stress and anxiety on both the pet and the owner.
This insures a great trip for you and a great time for your dog or cat. Also, you can count on your pet sitter to bring in the mail,trash,newspapers,dim or turn lights on or off making it seem as if someone is at home and keeping unwanted guest at bay.
 One thing clients seem to enjoy most is their pets being  there to greet them upon arriving home.
Most pet sitters are insured and bonded. References go along way in insuring your peace of mind knowing you did the right thing in hiring a professional to take care of your pets.

Do we need to Groom our pets?

One benefit of regular pet grooming is that it encourages a stronger bond between owner and pet. In the wild, many animals only allow others of their kind to perform grooming tasks. If a domesticated animal allows his owner to brush out his coat or clean out his ears, this is a sign of complete trust. Pet grooming involves a significant amount of handling and petting, which also benefits the pet's emotional state.Pet grooming can also be a necessity for some pets' proper daily functions. For example, a dog with long toenails may not be able to walk comfortably, which in turn discourages her from exercising daily. A cat may develop more hairballs throughout the day if not brushed, leading to overnight distress depending on the coat it has. Guinea pigs with unchecked teeth can develop severe overbites, leading to an inability to eat and ultimately to starvation. By performing simple pet grooming tasks, an owner can prevent serious health complications down the road.Another important consideration is animal comfort. A dog with a thick coat of hair may become overheated during hot summer months. Some breeds of animals need regular grooming to remove excess hairs and spread healthy oils to the coat. A haircut may not only help the animal look more attractive, but it also allows more air to circulate and keep the animal cool. Cats may groom themselves more often than other pets, but they still need some human aid from time to time. Pet grooming efforts such as giving a cat a bath may seem to call for expert help, but they are necessary to remove excess saliva from the cat's coat. Some people with cat allergies may be more sensitive to a cat's dried saliva than to its dander.

Exercise your Dog it's important !

Daily physical activity is an important part of your dogs health.Lack of exercise can lead to many health related issues such as obesity,poor muscle tone,heart problems and bone disorders. Dogs who don't receive daily activity can also start exhibiting emotional behaviors and lead to strange doggy quirks.An exercised dog can be rest more and remain calm and be less nervous when left alone
Physically your dog feels  it's best when coming home from a fun and interesting walk.Some suggestions are  give your dog a basket or a toy while walking.
Other suggestions are to hide your dogs toys and let them find them or you behind a tree or bush! This is great for mental stimulation.Most importantly let your dog play with other dogs it is important for social as well as physical behaviors.
There are some activities you can do indoors with your pal such as tunnel play,let them crawl through a cardboard box or boxes. Assemble some chairs in the form of a tunnel and encourage them to crawl through.
Dogs love the challenge and will love the praise and treats they receive as well.
I believe the biggest plus is the time you are spending with your pet or pets they will appreciate it and so will you!

When your pets are jealous of a new relationship

It may be hard to imagine pets having such a "human" emotion as jealousy, but like children, pets can find it difficult to share their owner's attention and affection with not only a new lover, but also a lover's pet. Many animal behaviorists agree that pets might not actually get jealous, but they react to the changes that a new person can bring. Pets may display their displeasure with new loved ones by exhibiting behaviors ranging from the annoying to the alarming.Cats can show their stress and unhappiness with a new situation by becoming distant and dogs may start biting, excessive barking or growling at the unwelcome newcomer. They may urinate on your new honey's favorite chair to let them know who's in charge, or cats may scratch the newcomers hand.
If your pet is "jealous," time and space could be the best remedy. Introducing a new pet and/or a new person into the home, even if it is just for short regular visits, can upset a pet's sense of well-being. They are territorial and get bent out of shape if they feel their space is being invaded. If the pet's displeasure is directed at another pet, make the introduction gradually over time. Keep them in separate areas at first and then slowly move them closer so they can get used to each other.To help with the transition, never punish a pet for the bad behavior. Visit the vet to rule out any physical problems. For dogs, create or try sticking to routines such as taking a walk at certain times. If your pet is used to hanging out on your bed, set up a new routine of playing with them in a different part of the home, so they won't feel abandoned if your new loved one spends the night.New relationships may mean less time spent with your pet. Shower them with love and extra attention and make the most of the time you do spend with them. This can reassure the pet that they are still wanted. Enlisting the services of a pet behaviorist can also provide some relief to the situation.

Cat scratch fever

  Cat scratch fever no it's not the song although that song is still popular today,but a more serious disease if not treated properly.I thought it was silly when I visited my vet and got scratched by one of the kittens there due to someone opening the door and walking in with a barking dog.
 She instructed me to wash my arm right away and put antibiotic salve on it.
Cat scratch disease is caused by Bartonella henselae. The disease is spread through contact with an infected cat (a bite or scratch), or contact with cat saliva on broken skin or the white of the eye.
About 2 - 3 weeks after becoming infection, lymph nodes swelling (lymphadenopathy) occurs near the site of the scratch or bite.
Occasionally, an infected lymph node may form a tunnel (fistula) through the skin and drain. Cat scratch disease is a common causes of chronic lymph node swelling in children.
In children with normal immune systems, full recovery without treatment is the norm. In immunocompromised people, treatment with antibiotics generally leads to recovery.

Avoiding contact with cats prevents the disease. Where this is not reasonable, good hand-washing after playing with a cat, avoiding scratches and bites, and avoiding cat saliva will lessen the risk of infection.

Older Dogs skin,hair and coat changes

As with people,dogs may start to show changes in their skin and haircoat as they get older. Become aware of these changes so you are prepared to deal with them. Some changes are the haircoat turns gray, mainly around the muzzle and face.It also may become thinner as well as duller.Keep your dogs coat groomed to keep it in top shape against the harsh environment.Also grooming makes your pal feel better because you are taking the time to have one on one time with them.Skin changes may include dryness due to their changing hormone levels it makes the skin more fragile making your dog more prone to injury and slower to heal. A few things that have been proven to help are omega-6 fatty acids for Haircoat and a spray on moisturizer for their fragile skin.
Also be aware of skin and haircoat changes as they also can be a sign of disease and may need your vet to examine them.

How to help dogs and Cats with winter paw pad injuries

Paw pad injuries are very common in the winter, the cold winter air,ice and snow can be very damaging. Fortunately there are a few things pet owners can do to help prevent paw pad injuries.
Wash or wipe down your dogs paws each time you come in from a walk or if your cat goes outdoors. The most common irritant can be the salt they use on sidewalks or roads to melt ice. Some of the materials they use can also be toxic as well. You can either simply wipe or use a warm foot bath to cleanse their feet.
Moisturizing is also recommended after each washing or can be applied before a walk as well to keep moisture in.
You can ask your vet which creams or salves to use because dogs and cats alike both lick their paws and using harsh creams can upset their stomach.Never use human lotions as these can irritate their digestive system.
For your dog consider having them wear dog booties if they will tolerate it, most dog booties can be found at your local pet store or online.
If your pet does obtain a paw pad injuries make sure you treat it immediately as the pads contain many blood vessel, make certain to check with your vet before applying any medications.
Remember your pet counts on you to make certain they stay happy and healthy so remember to check their feet this winter!

Kidney Disease in Elderly Dogs

The risks of kidney disease (renal failure) increase as a dog grows older. The condition can either be acute(occurs suddenly,signs can be severe) or chronic (slow onset with generalized signs)
Renal disease can be due to changes in the kidney, or it can result from the dysfunction of other organs. For example if the heart is impaired, decreased blood flow to the kidney impairs their ability to function properly. Kidney health is measured through blood tests,urinalysis,and,in some cases,imaging techniques.These test can can identify the problem before physical signs of kidney disease are evident. One of the most frequent signs and early signs is an increase in water consumption and urination,but this generally does not occur until about 70% of the kidney function is lost.
If there is a problem with kidney function,your vet may suggest changes in diet and lower dosages of certain medications to decrease the stress on the disease organ. With proper diagnosis and proper treatment,acute kidney disease may be reversible; chronic kidney disease can be managed to give dogs extra months or years,depending on response and over all health of your dog.