One of the most embarrassing and unpleasant problems dog owners can encounter is the problem of Fido eating his (or some other animal’s) stool. If you should be unlucky enough to have this problem, it’s hard to follow my advice to “give your dog a hug and kiss!” Before we get into how to correct this problem, it’s important to …
Causes of Bad Behavior in Dogs
The maxim “a sound mind in a sound body” is extremely relevant when it comes to taking care of our pets. Nearly every behavior problem I have encountered in my thirty years of work with animals is directly attributable to lack of exercise. Does your dog chew the furniture when you’re at the office? Does he grab food from the …
Keeping your dog safe & happy when moving house
Moving house is as stressful for your dog as it is for you, but careful planning will help to soften the trauma. Involve your dog in the packing-up as much as possible. Don’t lock him away, but keep him among the family so he can see what’s going on. Keep to his normal routine as much as possible, maintaining his …
199 Plants Poisonous to Your Pets
Courtesy of ProFlowers.com. Explanation of toxicity levels Keep in mind toxicity levels can vary based on your level of contact with a plant. For example, a plant like black henbane is fatal even in low doses, whereas some plants you need to consume a large amount to experience side effects. Here is a breakdown of the four levels: Major …
The Dangers of Cabin Fever
Are Your Pets Suffering When You Leave The House? Many studies have shown that rats confined in a small cage, without sufficient space for comfortable movement, become severe sociopaths. Their psychological state quickly deteriorates when they are jammed into crowded conditions, where they are practically unable to move. A dog or cat experiences the same kind of emotional deterioration …
Stepping Out with Kitty
Years ago, owners would let their cats wander outdoors. Today, as far as I’m concerned, this is not an option. It’s just too dangerous for our cats and kittens. Cars, other animals, the resurgence of rabies and, sadly, some people, all pose threats to your beloved furballs. As far as I’m concerned, a responsible cat owner does not permit his …
SWIMMING WITH YOUR PETS CAN BE FUN, BUT CAN ALSO BE VERY DANGEROUS
The constant exposure to water and sun is very drying to any pet’s coat and skin. This is particularly true of chlorinated pool water and ocean water, in which chemicals, and salt can remove the vital oils and moisture from your pet’s coat. Fresh water, of course, is less damaging, but a whole summer of swimming in it can irritate a dog or cat just as much as seawater.
The results of a summer at the beach can take a real toll on a pet, leaving him with dry hair, itchy skin, and a bleached coat. A good shampoo and moisturizer are a must for any pet who’s going to spend a lot of time in the water. If your basset hound is going to be at the shore for two months, you should rinse him off daily to get most of the salt out and followed up with a good conditioner once a week. Don’t let a dry coat go to long. If you neglect it, your pet will scratch himself into a serious skin problem that can only be handled by a veterinarian.
Another hazard of swimming and water sports is the amount of time spent in the sun. We’ve all learned in recent years that a gorgeous tan is not necessarily the best thing for our skin, and same is true for our pets. Overexposure can be harmful to skin,coat,eyes, and paws, and ultimately the life of the dog or cat. Too many rays can damage the eyes, and running on hot sand all day can create sore, sensitive pads.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly at the beach, Sand fleas can be annoying, but a horseshoe crab, man-of-war or jelly fish can cause a nasty sting. If your dog has never seen one of these creatures before, he’ll probably want to stick his nose right up against it and examine it closely. It’s always a better to steer him away from sea creatures that might prove harmful to him.
Never wade in a rocky area. A sharp rock or piece of coral can cut right through the soft flesh of the paw.
****Check out the article on “Heat Stroke” at www.thepetshow.com
Hot Weather Alert
Summer is here! Enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor activities with your pets but be aware of the hazards that accompany the season:
- Whether you live in a private home or apartment, you’ll be temped to open windows to cool the rooms. Be sure to keep screens or protective bars on your windows to prevent escapes and falls. For those of you owned by cats, window bars should be narrow enough to keep kitty from squeezing through. And bird-owners should make sure their feathered friends are protected from drafts.
- Outdoor activities mean opening and closing doors more frequently. Be sure that you know where your pets are at all times.
- Along with summer, out come pool chemicals and barbecue grill cleaning aerosols. Keep your household cleaners and chemicals out of your pet’s reach.
- Some common types of houseplants and outdoor bushes, flowers and shrubs can be poisonous to your pets. If you have any doubts about the safety of the plants in your home or on your property, check with your local nursery or garden center.
- Tools, especially gardening tools, have sharp points that can puncture paws or worse. Do not leave your tools and implements out where your pets can get to them.
- The hot weather means barbeques. Great smells wafting off the grill are dangerous temptations to your pets. Be sure to keep them away from the hot grill.
- As the boating and beach season begins, it’s important to remember that not all pets know how to swim. If you’re planning to take Fido out on the boat, you might want to consider getting him a doggy life preserver – yes, they are available! And remember, fishhooks can be very painful if they become embedded in tiny paws or curious noses.
- NEVER leave your pet unattended in your car. While I am against this practice in any weather, it is particularly true in the warmer weather. Don’t lull yourself into a false sense of security by leaving the windows open. This may not prevent heatstroke and may even encourage the theft of your beloved pet.
Speaking of gardening, use special care when mowing the lawn and applying fertilizers and lawn chemicals. Cocoa mulch, which is sold by garden supply stores & mass merchants, contains a lethal ingredient called “theobromine” which is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and really attracts dogs. Just a word of caution: check what you are using in your gardens, and beware of what your gardeners are using in your gardens.
Pets or neighborhood animals walking on treated lawns can get these products on their paws, and then lick it off. If enough is ingested, illness or even death can result. Read and follow the manufactures’ directions and warnings.
By following the above suggestions, you and your pet can safely enjoy the season’s warm weather.
TRAVELING WITH YOUR FURRY FRIENDS
If Fluffy and Fido refuse to be left behind on your vacation, have no fear – Warren Eckstein has some advice to help make sure you all have a happy and safe time.
Pets are a very important part of most families, and more than ever before, people are including their pets when traveling or on family vacations. Pets can add many new dimensions. It’s always easier to meet new people when your pet is with you. But, you have to keep in mind that travel is not right for all pets. Age, physical conditions and temperament should always be taken into consideration. The key is to prepare in advance.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE YOU GO:
PEOPLE PREPARATION
Call in advance: Whether you’re renting a house or staying at a hotel or motel, be sure to contact the property. Tell them you want to make special arrangements to bring your pet. Often properties have restrictions on the number, type, size or weight of the pets they allow. Also, pets may be restricted to smoking rooms or certain areas of the property. So ask a lot of questions.
Fees: Be sure to ask about any non-refundable fees or refundable deposits that are required.
Home alone: Ask if your pet is allowed to be left unattended while in the room and, if so, if the pet must be crated.
Ground floor: You may want to request a ground-floor room to make late night walks a little easier.
Hotels: There are some chains at every level that are pet friendly. They include:
La Quinta inns:
They have 350 pet-friendly locations from coast to coast. Cats and dogs up to 50 pounds are accepted in all guest rooms nationwide.
Loews hotels:
All pets are VIPs. You get information on local dog walking routes and area pet services and pet friendly restaurants. Amenities include food and water bowls with placemats, toys and treats. Pet room service menus are available, including vegetarian entrees. Pet walking and sitting services are available. Loews will even supply leashes, collars, litter boxes and pooper scoopers.
Orient Express hotels:
They have four luxury hotels: Windsor Court in New Orleans, The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michael’s, Maryland; Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, VA; Charleston Place, Charleston, S.C. The staff is very welcoming and guests with pets say it’s worth every penny.
If you are in Los Angeles, the Beverly Hills Hotel makes pets welcome with a ‘Canine Connoisseur Program.’ Everything from doggie dishes to dog beds, personalized homemade cookies, room service menu and a 24-hour dog walking service.
There are also bed & breakfasts that cater to or welcome pets. Always call in advance to check it out.
PET PREPARATION
Vet visit: Before you go on a trip with your pet, you should always take them to the vet. As you’ll see below, get a health certificate listing latest shots, copies of prescriptions, your vet’s name and phone number.
Medication: Check your supply and fill up if need be.
Sedatives: Don’t give sedatives without checking with you vet. It could interfere with your pet’s ability to maintain his balance and equilibrium which could prevent your pet from being able to brace himself and prevent injury. Air travel while under the influence of these medications is especially dangerous as exposure to increased altitude can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
Food: If you’re not sure if your pet’s regular brand of food is available during your travels, bring enough of it with you.
Kitty litter: You should pack your cat’s regular litter box and kitty litter. It can be disturbing to use other kinds of litter.
CAR TRAVEL
Desensitize: This is especially true if the only time your pet goes in the car is to go to the vet. They might not be so thrilled to pile in with the family for an eight-hour drive to the beach.
Use a carrier or doggie seat belt: It’s much safer in case of an accident and it will prevent Fido or Fluffy from distracting the driver.
Noses inside: Never permit your pet to hang his head out the window. Each year pets escape into traffic or suffer eye injuries from blowing debris. It can also give them respiratory problems.
Stops: Make sure to build in ample stops for walks and water.
Never alone: Never leave your pet unattended in the car. The temperature increases and dehydration and heatstroke can set in rapidly.
MAKE SURE TO BRING:
* Extra leash and collar
* I.D. tag with two numbers – one at home, one where you are staying
* Food and water dishes
* Bottle water/treats from home. You don’t know what’s in the water on the road, it might upset their stomachs.
* Cooler with ice: Pets are very susceptible to heatstroke.
* Health certificate/vet’s name and number
* A dirty blanket from home
* Favorite toys
* A recent photo and written description including name, breed, gender, height, weight, coloring and distinctive markings
* Grooming supplies
* Flea and tick repellents
* First aid kit
* Pre-moistened wipes with no alcohol
Warning – Heatstroke Can Be Hazardous to Your Pet’s Health!
Although it may occur at any time of the year, heatstroke is particularly prevalent as the weather turns warmer.
Heatstroke occurs when the environment becomes too hot and too humid for your pet’s natural temperature-control mechanisms to work. Our pets rely on panting and sweating to maintain their normal body temperatures. However, unlike people, dogs and cats only possess efficient sweat glands on the pads of their feet. That’s why although you may not feel over-heated; you must pay special attention to your pet. If you don’t, the result could be deadly.
The best treatment of heatstroke is its prevention in the first place. Never keep you pet unattended in a car. Even if the temperature is moderate outside and the windows are open, our cars can heat up like ovens. Never keep your pet closed-up in a pen or kennel without shade, adequate ventilation, or water. Remember, the sun moves as the day progresses, so an area that was shaded in the morning may be full sun later in the day. And use common sense when exercising your pet – exercise elevates your pet’s body temperature.
Just as with people, use special care with younger or older pets – they tend to be more sensitive. And pets with “pushed-in” noses, such as Persian cats, pugs and bull dogs, are particularly prone to heatstroke. The anatomical structure of their noses and throats decreases air flow – thereby inhibiting the natural cooling process.
Here are some symptoms of heatstroke:
- Excessive panting.
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Elevated body temperature.
- Hot, dry skin.
- Pale lips and gums.
- Collapse and coma.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, you must take immediate action by doing the following:
- Remove the stricken pet from the hot environment to a shady, cool place.
- Lower your pet’s body temperature with cold water.
- If at all possible, place him in front of a fan to speed-up the cooling process.
- Gently massage his legs and body.
- If your pet is conscious, let him drink small amounts of water and wash his mouth with cool water to help the cooling process.
- GET YOUR PET TO THE VET IMMIDEIATLEY.