Here's The Premier!

Here is our first video!  Let us know if you have suggestions for the next show let us know. It's my first video so please excuse the nervousness.  I hope you like it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C871YDLqBjA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Check Us Out On Youtube!

We are excited to announce a new vlog (video blog) coming out soon on Youtube.  This will be the same type of information you find here but on video.  The first one should be coming out soon and will discuss things such as fostering and what is involved.

We hope you enjoy the first episode and feel free to let us know how you like it but please be gentle.  :-)

Keep reading and be sure to watch our new episodes of Amy's Animals Experiences on Youtube!

For more information email us at amysanimalexperiences@gmail.com.

I Want Plants But Which Ones Will Harm My Pet?

Most of us love plants and some of us even love to get outside and plant one or two.  The flowers are beautiful and they help our living environment with the oxygen exchange that occurs.  However, with pets we have to be careful because our little furry friends love to chew on them and a lot of plants are very toxic to animals.  So which ones are toxic?  Here are some lists:

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/

Cats specifically:  http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/plant-list-cats.aspx

Spanish version:  http://www.aspca.org/aspca-nyc/resources-for-spanish-speakers/17-plantas-venenosas-comunes.aspx

Ok. So now that we know what plants to avoid bringing in, what if we already have them (say outside) and don't want to get rid of them?  Well, definitely be very, very diligent in watching your pet and where s/he goes and what s/he chews on.  For instance, my cat Killian likes to go outside and roll around in the grass and play in the bushes.  Catnip was growing behind those bushes which was leading him there and he LOVED to chew on that but nothing else except grass. 

Also, be wary of the poinsettias at Christmas time but they are not as poisonous as once thought.  They can cause stomach upset and mouth irritation but they aren't the deadliest plant.  Oleander, however, is very poisonous and should be avoided. 

White Oleander

Yellow Oleander

These two pictures both show Oleander but also show how different the two plants can appear.  If you are not sure what type of plant you have around in your yard please either take a picture or take some with you to a garden store and ask them. 

This would mean more peace of mind for you while you are enjoying the beautiful weather outdoors with your furry loved one.


If there's anything I have learned over the years is that I will not take any chances with my pets.  I may be overprotective sometimes but they depend on me and I want what is best for them as I would my human children.  There's obviously no reason to panic every time you see a plant but just try to be proactive when you are outside or even bringing plants indoors.  If your cat likes to eat grass then you can always get some "cat grass" and grow it indoors for your cat to chew on which is a great option.

If there is an accidental ingestion, you need to call your local poison control center and/or your vet as quickly as possible.  Medical intervention will be necessary no matter what type of plant and if you think about it (hard to do in the moment) take an example of the plant with you so it can hopefully be identified so your vet will know what type of plant it is and what to expect from your pet regarding signs and symptoms.

If you have any comments or questions please let us know.  We'd love to hear from you.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook as well.  As always, Thanks For Reading!

You've Found A Baby Kitten Or Puppy...Now What?

Finding baby kittens and puppies can stress anyone if you love animals because the first question is normally "what do I do with it?" Here's some good information about what to do and if you're up to it some supplies you can get to feed the little one.

http://www.kittenbaby.com/

http://puppies.about.com/od/NewOwners/a/Development-Birth-to-3-Months.htm

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-newborn-puppy-care.aspx

http://www.2ndchance.info/orphanpuppy.htm

The links above provide some really good information about bottle feeding and the development stages of both kittens and puppies.  As far as guessing their age, I have personally found it useful to calculate it at 4 ounces per week of life.  For instance, if the kitten weighs 8 ounces we can safely assume he/she is 2 weeks old.  Obviously this is a guesstimate since the only way to know exactly how old your baby is is to see them born.

These guys are really super cute, but they are deceivingly a lot of work.  They are also extremely busy figuring out what's appropriate behavior and what is not and will play almost non-stop.  They will also fill a litterbox so it is extremely important to stay on top of that as well.  Kittens defecate their body weight every day which is quite amazing given how small they are.

These guys are even more work in that potty training is involved.  They have to learn to go outside and not in your home!  That requires lots and lots of trips outside to show them where they can go potty.  Their bladders are also not as big so they will have to go a lot more than their adult counterparts.

These babies are extremely cute and sweet but if you find one or more then it is important you check with a local vet or rescue organization if you aren't sure what to do.  It is work but definitely worth it in the end.

If you have any questions, comments or need information on how to go about finding a local rescue organization please let us know. Please follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook.  As always, thank you for reading!

Should You Avoid The Asphalt When Walking Your Dog? Why?

Since it's officially summer time here in the United States we need to start thinking about how hot not only we can get during the day but also how hot the pavement gets because we walk our dogs on that hot pavement and it can do damage.  If you have ever walked barefoot across a parking lot in the summer time you know it hurts.  It's the same thing for your dog.  We cannot think just because they are animals and have paw pads that they are indestructible because that is simply not the case.  If they walk too long on the hot pavement it will burn the skin off those pads.

This is what can happen if your dog is allowed to walk to long on the hot pavement.  It's painful and obviously need treatment.  If you live in a place where it doesn't get hot then you will need to protect their little feet from extreme cold if that is your weather.  Most cold weather places do use mitts on their dogs paws to protect them from the ice and snow.  That is something that will protect your dog from the heat as well.  Just be careful that this doesn't overheat your dog because animals release heat through the pads in their feet as well as their tongues and other mucus membranes so pay very close attention to their breathing and take water along for them as well so they can cool off too.  Walking in the shade or grass is best, if possible.  If it's too hot for you to go without shoes it will be too hot for your dog.

http://www.activedogs.com/product.php?id=125

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2753821

The above links are for two types of mittens for your dog's paws when walking in cold or hot weather.  I highly recommend these for hot summer days and cold snowy or icy weather or if you just want to keep your dog from sliding on slick surfaces to prevent shoulder and hip injuries.  It will be a very weird sensation for them at first but they will get used to it and will be pros at walking in them in no time!

If you have concerns about this please ask your vet or trainer to get suggestions or advice.  We want your pet as safe as possible.

We welcome comments, questions and concerns so do not hesitate to ask.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Flipbook!  As always, thanks for reading.

The First Day Of Summer! Don't Leave Pets In The Car.

It's officially the first day of summer here in the United States.  That means the hotter temperatures are here and in some cases have been around for a while already.  So what does this mean for your pets?  Well first and foremost they should always have access to water while they are outside.  Animals do not sweat so it is harder for them to release body heat to cool themselves down. 

If you see your dog panting harder than normal or your cat panting at all this means they are too hot and need to be cooled down.  How is this done?  First you need hose your dog off with cool water and get him/her in the shade.  Once this is done take them indoors where there is air conditioning.  If your dog is outdoor only then you should consider more shade and providing more water and potentially ice water at times.  If you just cannot bring your dog indoors you may want to consider your garage as an alternative since there is a concrete floor which is cooler.  Providing a fan or portable A/C unit is also a good idea since as the summer wears on the garage will heat up.

Outdoor cats do tend to find cooler places to stay during the day such as under decks in the dirt; however, water is still extremely important for them as well.  Do not think just because cats are more independent that the heat cannot and will not bother them as well.

So what will happen if your pet gets overheated and nothing is done?  Heat stroke is a very real possibility in your pet and it will happen a lot quicker in them than it does in humans.  It will kill your pet very quickly as their bodies are literally cooking on the inside as their temperature rises.

I personally had an experience with this and watched as the dog paced the floor, panted extremely hard and was obviously very uncomfortable.  We had no idea what to do at this point in time and did our best to no avail.  She passed away on the way to the vet.  Her temperature was 108 degrees internally.  A normal temp is 102 so you can see this was extremely high. 

Our ignorance led us to do a great deal of research and educate ourselves on how to prevent this from happening again.  Fortunately we had the opportunity to keep another dog alive through this very same situation because we were educated this time and did the right things.

People should also not leave their dogs in their cars.  If you have to go into a business then you should leave the car running with the A/C on if you cannot bring your dog in with you.  Same thing with cats.  The temperature in your car heats up to dangerous temps very very quickly and any outside temp over 70 can kill your dog or cat in the car if left for too long in the car.

It is very important that we as pet parents think of these things so we can keep our furry family members as safe as possible.  I personally do not take my dog anywhere I cannot take him in with me so I do not have to leave him in the car.  That's just so I don't have to worry about him either being taken or getting sick because I wasn't aware of the temperature.  I do not judge others for leaving theirs in the car as long as the A/C is on though.  If the A/C is not on, however, and I see it then I will take your dog especially if it is hot outside.  That's animal cruelty in my opinion.

We welcome your opinions and comments and questions.  Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and Flipbook.  As always, thanks for reading!

Dog Fighting...How To Recognize It And What To Do About It.

We've all heard about Michael Vick and his dog fighting ring, I'm sure.  Does this type of thing really exist in our own neighborhoods though?  I mean we like to think we live in a safe area.  Unfortunately this illegal activity can exist anywhere.  Your neighbors may even be participating in this behavior and you will not even know it unless you know what to look for.

http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/dog-fighting/dog-fighting-faq.aspx

If you hear someone asking for free kittens then that is a red flag.  Do not be fooled by the fact that they may have children with them.  Free kittens or cats are ALWAYS a bad idea for this reason.  They are used for bait to help make these dogs fight.  The kittens do not stand a chance and will always be killed in a horrible way.  They are then just tossed in the garbage like trash.  People will also look for free dogs and come by to see if they are submissive.  Submissive dogs make good bait as well because they will not fight back and if they do these people will tape their mouths shut so they can't fight back.  This is all an effort to make the other dog get a taste for fighting and blood so they will continue to do this behavior.  These people praise the behavior so the dog thinks it is a good thing to do.

The dogs will also more than likely be chained up outside with very heavy chains.  There will always be more than one and it will be breeds like pittbulls, rottweilers, etc. that people are already afraid of and feel are aggressive.  Unfortunately what a lot of people do not know is these breeds were originally used as nannies or herding or general working dogs...they were never deemed aggressive.  Humans made them that way and have inbred them so the genetics are not as they were initially so these dogs have gotten a bad rap over the years.

The dogs used for fighting are most likely not vaccinated or cared for medically either.  Why should they care for them medically if they are just going to let them kill each other?  The dogs may be heart worm positive, have tick borne diseases, distemper, or any variety of other medical issues.  Unless rescued from this situation, these dogs will never be treated for any medical condition they may or may not have and any injured dog will not receive treatment for injuries.

Gypsy with dog fighting injuries.  Notice she has no ears and is missing a leg.

The graphic picture above is not meant for shock but to show you what can happen to another dog during a fight.  This is definitely considered animal cruelty and is also very illegal.  People spend many years in jail if they are found guilty of this activity. There are also activities beyond just dog fighting such as drugs found to be involved as well.

Please check the link above for information as well as the links on this blog for more information regarding what to look for and if you do stumble upon what you feel is a dog fighting ring please leave immediately and call the police!  Give them the address and as specific a location as possible but do not go back there as the people would rather see you dead than to go to jail.

If you have any pertinent information to add please feel free to comment or ask any questions.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Flipbook and be sure to remind your family and friends about us.  As always, thanks for reading.

Adopting From An Agency Or Shelter...Is There A Health Guarantee?

The answer to this is no.  There is never a health guarantee even if you go to a breeder.  There is absolutely no way to guarantee the health of any animal unless there is genetic testing and even then it's impossible to tell whether or not a recessive gene will rear it's ugly head and bring out the disease or illness.

Take Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) for example.  This is an ultimately deadly disease most common in the Maine Coon, American Shorthair, Devon Rex, Ragdoll, and British Shorthair breeds.  It is basically the heart not properly functioning and its inability to pump blood effectively.  The walls of the heart will also thicken as the disease progresses so symptoms will get progressively worse.  There is no cure but there are medications that your pet can take to potentially prolong their life.  HCM is a genetic disease and can be detected through genetic testing however, your vet may tell you that your pet has a heart murmur.  If you have any of the above mentioned breeds you will want to pursue this further with more testing to make sure it is only a heart murmur and not HCM.

http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/cliented/hcm.aspx

http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/Pages/06_Meurs_final.pdf

Another disease that is not able to be tested for is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).  This too is a deadly disease that can come on very quickly and will take your cat's life.  FIP is caused by a coronavirus very common in cats but doesn't often result in FIP.  This is found often times in multi-cat homes, catteries and shelters.  This does not mean that people should have only one cat at a time or not adopt from shelters or rescue organizations or seek breeding options. 

This cat is exhibiting the sign of enlarged belly consistent with FIP

Is there a vaccine?  Yes, but it's safety and effectiveness aren't able to be verified so I personally would not risk it out of my own paranoia.  FIP is not common and if your pets are healthy then there is no real reason to worry about it but it is worth knowing about.

If your cat all of a sudden stops eating, is very lethargic but his/her belly continues to grow it is time to go to the vet quickly.  Again, THERE IS NO DEFINITIVE TEST FOR FIP.  I personally know of one vet who was set on a FIP diagnosis for a cat and was set on euthanasia but decided to do one more test.  This test found it was NOT FIP and that cat is alive today because of this $140 test.

http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/brochures/fip.html

http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/Pages/FIP_Web_2010.pdf

I do not write about these two specific diseases to scare anyone but to bring up the fact that there are no guarantees when you either adopt or buy a pet.  You, as their parent, have to be diligent in their health care and not just keeping them healthy and providing the appropriate care needed but being your pet's advocate.  You are their voice.  Nobody can tell you about genetic disorders if you are adopting and potentially even purchasing from a breeder.  Just due diligence on you and your vet's part will help keep your pet healthy.  It is unfair but it is a fact.  Appliances come with guarantees, not animals.

Please give us your respectful comments and questions.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook!  As always, tell your family and friends about us and thanks for reading.

Animal Cruelty...What Is It And How To Help Prevent It? It Isn't Just About The Animals.

This topic is so hard for some people and if you are in the trenches helping abused and neglected animals who are part of cruelty cases then it is even harder.  Most people will say even if they do not like cats or dogs or animals in general they would never hurt one on purpose.  That is the norm.  Then there are people who have such disregard for life that they get enjoyment out of seeing another living creature hurt.  These people would also have no problem hurting another human do please do not fool yourself into thinking they wouldn't hurt you too.

The definition of animal cruelty is:  the crime of inflicting physical pain, suffering or death on an animal, usually a tame one, beyond necessity for normal discipline. It can include neglect that is so monstrous (withholding food and water) that the animal has suffered, died or been put in imminent danger of death.  (http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Animal+cruelty)

Here is a link to find the animal cruelty laws in your US state:
http://www.aspca.org/Fight-Animal-Cruelty/Advocacy-Center/state-animal-cruelty-laws.aspx

Please do not use the word "cruelty" frivolously because it is very serious to accuse someone of this crime.  Cruelty does not include letting your cat be indoor/outdoor or having an outdoor dog despite what your opinion on this topic may be.   There also has to be proof so be sure if you are going to accuse someone you have absolute proof and a local animal law attorney can help you with figuring out what this entails.

http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/reporting-cruelty-faq.aspx

http://aldf.org/article.php?list=type&type=85

Here are some pictures of one type of act of cruelty from the folks at "Unchain Your Dog".  
http://www.unchainyourdog.org/FactsPhotos.htm

I won't post anymore pictures because I do not want people to receive pleasure out of viewing thing that evil from this blog.  Suffice it to say, the research that happens on cats, dogs, and the slaughtering of animals can be considered cruelty and if you really want to see the pictures you will have to research them yourself.  I warn you, though, it is extremely disturbing.

Please talk to your local law makers about this topic and try to get laws passed that will help stop this behavior.  There is absolutely no reason for this behavior to continue and no reason these animals should be treated like this.  At the very least start with unchaining dogs and fighting the people who continue to have dog fighting rings on a daily basis because these type of people aren't just fighting dogs, they are more than likely into other illegal activities as well.

http://aldf.org/article.php?id=927

This topic isn't just about animals, it's about saving our communities and keeping them and the sentient beings in them safe.  If we all start to think outside the box and work with law enforcement to put these criminals in prison and work to get harsher laws for these crimes then we can begin to feel safer about 1) having those indoor/outdoor cats, and 2) maybe allowing our children to play safely in local playgrounds and in our own backyards.

This is a hot topic so please keep any comments respectful, but we do welcome any comments as long as we all respect everyone's right to an opinion.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook.  As always, thank you so much for reading!

Getting Yourself And Your Pet Ready For Storm Season

Here in the Southeast United States it is officially hurricane season.  This begins every year on June 1 and some people take it more seriously than others.  So in order to take the middle of the road with preparation I thought I would mention some things in we can do not only for ourselves but for our pets as well in case we do have a hurricane, or any storm.

Regardless of the storm there should be a few things we should always keep on hand and one of those things is a gallon of water per person per day.  That is normally my rule of thumb so everyone stays hydrated.  When it is hot and there is no air conditioning and people are sweating it is extremely easy to get dehydrated.  You should also keep a gallon of water per day per pet on hand as well for the same reason...hydration.  However, your pet cannot sweat so it is even more important to make sure your pet stays hydrated.  Animals pant to release heat from their bodies.  They also release heat from their paw pads.  If your pet is panting excessively then you might consider hosing him/her down with the garden hose to keep them cool.  Do NOT put wet cloths on their body because that will keep the heat in and that is very, very bad for them.

Of course another thing to keep on hand is non-perishable food.  Not just for yourselves but for your pet as well.  Canned food is good as is dry food.  You will just need to make sure you really keep an eye on the expiration date of these foods and if they are coming close to due then feed your dog or cat the foods and buy more to keep on hand.  There is nothing wrong with rotating this food.  You can also keep your pet's favorite treats the same way.  For dogs, if you use the natural chews then once again keep an eye on any expiration dates they may have.  For cats, the freeze dried treats you will want to make sure you store properly so they do not go bad.

Since I live in the Southeastern United States, I can say with confidence that if there is a hurricane and the eye of that storm has come over your area you can reasonably expect to be at least a week without conveniences depending on the category level of the hurricane.  I personally went through a category 3 hurricane and the eye went over my area and we were without power (and water although we had a well at the time) for a week.  I also work full-time in the public safety arena so I'm familiar with the damage various storms can do as well and how they can affect people's lives.

If your pets are not microchipped I strongly encourage you to get them done in case something happens to them and they get lost.  Vets and shelters will scan found pets and this will allow you to get your pet back.  This is especially important if you have outdoor or indoor/outdoor cats or outdoor dogs. 

Keeping your pets up to date on their vaccines is important as well not just during storm season but all year.  Especially rabies but your vet will have others he/she recommends as well.  These are important for the health of your pet.

Please prepare for the appropriate storm season in your area.  This will save time and energy and worry later on if there is a storm that hits your area.  Not only do you owe it to yourself but you owe it to your pets to prepare them as well.

Be safe and let us know if you have any questions.  Please follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook.  As always, thanks for reading.

What Exactly Are Heartworms? Can Cats And Dogs Get Them?

Heartworms are extremely dangerous worms that begin with a single mosquito.  The name "heartworm disease" can be misleading when dealing with cats because it is mostly a lung issue and not a heart issue; however, the heart is affected in dogs when the disease has progressed significantly.

The treatment is very hard on a dog's body as well because it is basically small doses of arsenic that are injected to kill the larvae and worms but obviously not the dog.  The vet will have to watch your dog for a period of time to make sure everything goes well and your dog will have to be kept quiet for a period of normally 6-8 weeks.  There is no real approved method of treatment for cats as of yet and the diagnosis is extremely complicated.

http://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm.html

http://www.petsandparasites.org/dog-owners/heartworms

So what do we as pet parents do about this?  Well most importantly everyone should be on heartworm prevention regardless of your geographic location and whether or not you have seen a mosquito.  There are places outside of the USA that are prone to mosquitos as well and humans as well as animals should be protected against various diseases.

http://www.mosquito.org/mosquito-borne-diseases 

PLEASE GIVE ME PROTECTION!

Heartworm disease is an easily preventable disease and all it takes is giving your dog a monthly preventative.  You can also give your cat a prevention as well since statistics have shown the cats who have shown positive for heartworms have been indoor only cats.  It is rare, but it does happen to cats as well. 

So what are the symptoms?  What should we look for in our pets?  Well if they are coughing more than normal or the cough is persistent, get very tired after a little to moderate activity, they begin losing weight and their coat isn't up to par.  If your pet gets tired after just mild activity and they begin to lose weight but are eating the same amount or more food it is imperative you get him/her into the vet immediately for a heartworm test and/or chest x-ray.  Heartworms are deadly if allowed to progress too far.

http://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/resourcesforyou/animalhealthliteracy/ucm188470.htm

http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/heartworm-disease-in-dogs/773

This prevention should, in my opinion and my vet's opinion, be given year round without interruption.  There is no reason to skip this protection for your pet (cat or dog) just because it is winter and we do not feel these creatures are not out because we may be wrong.  I know here in the Southeastern United States our winters are getting warmer (not that they were very cold anyway) which to me is a justification to treat our pets all year. 

Please talk to your vet and get his/her opinion and advice.  Also check out the links I have provided here from reputable sources.  If you have other sources for me please send them to me because I am always looking for research information to share with people outside of this blog.

Please leave your comments or questions and tell your family and friends about us!  Don't forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Flipbook.  As always, thank you for reading.

Do I Really Need To Get Kittens In Pairs?

The answer to this question is only if you want a well socialized adult cat.  Kittens need each other to learn how to be well rounded cats.  This can only be taught by being with other kittens or other cats.  They need the mental, social and emotional stimulation that they can only give each other.  If you think about it we can't learn how to meow from them anymore than we can teach them the English language.  We need other humans like they need other cats.  It just makes common sense. 

http://www.goathouserefuge.org/two-kittens-are-easier-than-one/

http://www.mchumane.org/documents/kittencare.pdf

The above links have some very good insight into kittens.  They are work and they are very, very, very busy.  They also, like human children, haven't developed their adult personalities yet so just because they are sweet and snuggly now doesn't mean they will be as adults. 

Having two kittens is actually easier than having one believe it or not.  Two kittens will keep each other occupied and they will play with each other instead of bugging you all the time wanting to play!  They will be tons of entertainment and will keep you laughing. 

These pictures are very cute and show part of what playing is for kittens.  If you only have one then this chewing and wrestling will happen on you instead of an appropriate playmate.  Yes, you can show them a toy instead of you, but they are very social beings most of the time and will keep coming back to you for interaction. 

They will pounce, jump and stalk one another as if they are prey which is very, very normal.  If you have just one then they will do this with you!  They may do this even if they do have a playmate, but redirecting them is easier if there is something else to focus their attention like another moving target that is their size and looks like them. 

Another plus is when you are away from home, ex. at work, then they will have each other to snuggle with and play with so they are not bored.  A bored kitten is like a bored puppy...destructive.  They do not have the eduction yet to know right from wrong but if they have an appropriate playmate and appropriate toys then the likelihood of them getting into trouble is much lower.

Kittens are cute but if you want a pet whose personality is already developed then you might want to consider an adult for many reasons but 1) you know what you're getting personality wise, and 2) the chances of him/her doing well alone (if you only want one) are higher. 

If you aren't sure what you want, then you might want to consider fostering until you know for sure.  Not only does it save a life, it gives you a chance to spend time with an animal and give it a good home until the right family comes a long.  It is definitely rewarding.  Check with your local rescue organizations or shelters for more information.

Thank you so much for reading and I hope this has given you some insight.  Tell your family and friends about us and if you have a topic you'd like to see discussed please let us know.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook!  Again, thanks for reading.

The Weekend Was Busy...

There was just so much to do and not enough time to get it all done, but isn't that always the case.   As far as our furry friends go, there is of course news to tell on the rescue front.  There were a couple of kittens found on a nearby highway that were picked up by a fellow volunteer so they are now safe.  There are always animals in danger of being euthanized at our local shelters as well because of space issues (i.e. too many animals coming in and nowhere to put them so they have to euthanize the ones there to make room).  Then of course there are always adoption events for the animal rescue organization I volunteer with.  The picture below is me holding a 6 week old kitten named Buttercup.

 

 

She is so sweet and had been playing off and on for the entire 3 hours she was at the event.  We of course could not resist this photo opportunity.  Would you have been able to resist her at all?  I can't, that's for sure.

 

Then Thor and Megan, our Newfoundland nephew and niece, were there getting baths as well.  Once they got done they were, as always, a big crowd draw and people were taking pictures of them and loving on them which they really live for.  Thor's Wobbler's is getting worse apparently and he lost about 4-5 pounds this week which is really not good.  He is so skinny it is truly breaking our hearts not just for him but for his parents as well.  He of course puts on a brave face at the store.  If you are owned by a large breed dog, please pay attention to their gate (walking habits) so you will know if it changes.  There is no cure for Wobbler's.

 

http://vet.osu.edu/wobbler-syndrome

 

All in all it was a great weekend and it is our hope to have many adoptions for the homeless animals and maybe even find some barn homes for homes with lots of land for some semi-feral cats.  They are quite a help to those not only with barns but with lots of property. 

 

http://www.aspca.org/adoption/feral-cats-faq.aspx

 

If you are in the Raleigh, NC area and are willing to have at least one semi-feral cat on your property please contact me for some no costs details as to how you are able to have this for your land.

 

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and have a wonderful week.  We'll talk more about the fur kids this week!  Let me know if you have any specific you'd like me to discuss or if you have any input.  Your family and friends might be interested in reading so please tell them about us and as always thanks for reading!

Is Giving Up Your Pet The Best And Only Option?

Are you moving?  Having a baby?  Think you've developed allergies?  Well surely the only option is to give up your pet.  NO!  That is not necessarily true!

There are a lot of places in your area that will accept your pet if you are moving and if you cannot afford to pay the pet fees up front most places will work with you and allow you to make payments. Your local shelter may have suggestions as to which apartments allow pets and which ones allow "bully breeds".  There are some that will allow them and most that won't and some will allow them if you get a note from your vet saying s/he is a mix of something that is not a "bully breed".  In my opinion that is not appropriate since those dogs are normally very sweet but you can read about supposedly dangerous breeds on another blog I wrote on this site.

If you are having a baby and already have a pet then you can work with a behaviorist.  Cats especially can sense hormonal changes in your body even before you can so your cat or dog may act differently toward you before you even know you are pregnant.  If that is the case and you have been trying to get pregnant then take a test to see because you may be expecting!  This does not necessarily mean you have to give up your pet unless there is some aggression involved that cannot be resolved through working with a behaviorist such as the one listed below.

http://familypaws.com/

Finally, what I want to touch on is quite honestly the most abused reason for giving up an animal...allergies.  The truth is if you think you might be allergic to cats then spend some time with several cats prior to adopting one so you will know for sure if you are allergic to the one you want to adopt prior to take him/her home.  Getting allergy tested is also an option.  Once you bring this animal into your home then the dander is there.  Cat dander is stickier than dog dander is can stay in your home for at least 6 months even after the cat is gone so the fact that you give the cat away doesn't mean the allergen is necessarily gone unless you wash every surface to include furniture and curtains.    People also think that they are allergic to the fur but that is also not the case.  It is the protein in the animal's saliva to which they are allergic.

http://www.asthmacenter.com/index.php/News/details/pet_allergy/

There are so many things to help with allergies, moving and babies and it doesn't necessarily mean you have to part with your furry family member.  Adopting or even purchasing a pet should be a lifetime commitment so giving them up to a shelter where they may be euthanized should not be an option unless aggressiveness is an issue and even then that should be medically checked prior to rehoming.

Of course, not everyone will agree with today's post and I do not expect that however I am hopeful that it will create some thought in case someone is thinking about giving up their pet.  Lots of things happen when animals lose their homes to include not eating, depression, not drinking, behavioral changes that can be perceived as aggression, etc.  Please see some advice before surrendering.

If you have any comments or questions please let us know and tell your family and friends about us.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Flipbook!  Thanks for reading!

Allergies...Does Your Pet Have Them?

Many people are allergic to animals but what about your pets having allergies?  I'm sure some of you know what it is like to have a pet with allergies and what has to be done to figure out what they are allergic to but let's go through the process for those who may not know what's involved and are curious.

First, let me start out by saying if your pet has a tremendous amount of fur loss and appears to be suffering from severe itching, won't eat or is not eating normally, etc. please take him/her to the vet immediately. 

Now, lets look at some of the signs and symptoms of allergies.  Obviously itching is one of them.  Itchy watering eyes and red patches/pustules on the skin or between the toes are two more.  Here is what that could look like:

So how do you figure out what your pet is allergic to?  Well the first thing to think about is whether or not you have just introduced a new treat, food, shampoo or chemical into your home.  Having the carpets in your home cleaned can aggravate sensitive skin and your pet may be allergic to the chemicals used during that process.  Also, if you have started using a new pet shampoo your pet may be allergic to one of the ingredients. 

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-allergies.aspx

http://happytailsspa-blog.com/2009/11/18/what-is-my-dog-allergic-to/

Of course there is the obvious and that is food and treats.  It is completely possible for your dog to be allergic to rawhide (if you give them), bully sticks or literally any treat or food on the market.  Even if it says it's hypoallergenic there is always that possibility. 

So you haven't introduced anything new?  Well allergies can develop over time and are most common to appear between the ages of 1 and 4 years.  So how do we figure it out?  Well the first thing is to cut things down to the basics.  Cut out all treats, chews, etc. down to their food and water.  Do this for at least eight weeks.  It will be hard but it is necessary to figure out what's going on.  If the signs and symptoms go away then you know it's one of the treats or chews.  If it doesn't go away, then you know it's an ingredient in the food.

Assuming it's not the food, begin introducing one thing at a time for eight weeks at a time.  For example, introduce a training treat back into their diet for eight weeks  and if the symptoms do not return then you can introduce another treat or chew they are used to until you find the culprit.

If it IS the food then it is time for a trip or call to the vet to see if s/he can do some testing to find out what ingredient your pet is allergic to and go from there.  Food allergies, while common, can be difficult to diagnose without testing.  Sometimes it takes a dermatologist to do further allergy testing.
http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/caring-for-a-dog-that-has-food-allergies

 http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=74

It is also possible that your pet is allergic to the same things you may be allergic to such as grass, mold, pollen, dust, etc. and will need allergy medication.  While this is not as common it is completely possible and something you should rule out when talking with your vet.

Above all, if you are nervous about your pet's appetite or condition please call your vet because there is nothing more important than their health so you shouldn't risk it if they are not eating and/or drinking normally or not acting appropriate or something just "doesn't feel right" to you as their parent because you ultimately know them best.

Let us know your thoughts, comments or questions.  We'd love to hear from you!  Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and Flipbook!  Your family and friends who have pets or are just curious about animals might want to follow us so be sure to tell them about us too.  As always, thanks for reading!

Dangerous Breeds Of Dogs...Do They Exist? Is It The Owner And Not The Breed?

There are a lot of people in this world who will swear that there are certain breeds of dogs that are more dangerous than others.  Here in the United States if you have one of the breeds that is deemed dangerous then you will have a hard time renting an apartment or getting homeowners insurance as well.  Why is this the case?  Are they really that dangerous?  I personally do not think so and here is my experience with both sides of the fence.

My grandmother had a toy poodle when I was growing up named "Cupid" and I literally could not pet that dog because he would growl and bear his teeth at us every single time we went over there.  My grandmother was the only one who could ever touch that dog.  We all hated him.  Years later a German Shepherd mix (yes this is one of the breeds considered dangerous) wandered up in our yard and she was by far the sweetest dog in the whole world.  She played with my brother and me and was the best family dog.  I rescued a Rottweiler from the shelter and was able to take her to a nearby children's park where she let the kids lay on her, pull her ears, etc. without so much as a growl.  A pitt bull was rescued from a shelter having mange, being scared, etc. and he has turned out to be extremely loving and will roll on his back for everyone he sees including toddlers so they can pet him. 

http://www.animallawcoalition.com/breed-bans/article/552

http://www.understand-a-bull.com/Articles/OtherBreedBites/AllDogsBite.htm#Allbreeds

http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/dog-fighting/breed-specific-legislation.aspx

http://stopbslintn.tripod.com/id14.html

http://stopbslintn.tripod.com/id15.html

That is only three examples of experiences I have personally had with dogs.  Humans do not understand the breed when they get them sometimes and just say "I've always wanted a rottweiler" or whatever the specific breed is.  What they do not understand is rotties, as they are nicknamed, are very hardheaded, stubborn, strong-willed and definitely not for first time dog owners.  They MUST go through training and consistency is key with them.  They are fantastic family dogs and great with kids.  The same goes for pitties (aka pitt bulls which are actually 4 breeds incorporated into one name).

Research is key with dogs, or any pet for that matter, and if it has teeth it can bite.  The question when meeting a new dog is not "will it bite" it's "is he/she friendly" or "may I pet your dog".  Also, do not ever go up to a service dog without asking first because these dogs may be working and it is not appropriate to interrupt that working process for them without the owner's permission.

So if people say small dogs bite more than these bigger dogs why don't we ear about it more?  Well, my opinion is because the big dogs can cause more damage than the small dogs and people are more afraid of big dogs.  Ignorance is the cause of a lot of fear in society for a lot of issues not just this one.  Just because a small dog doesn't cause a lot of damage when it bites you doesn't make it right for the incident not to be reported.

What is the definition of a bite?  A true bite will not only break the skin but cause blood to be seen and there will be puncture wounds with bruising.  The picture below is healing but you can see the injury.

This picture is not healed and shows you what a bite can look like soon after it happens.

I don't show you these for shock value but merely to give you an example of what a real bite looks like.  Often times people think because their dog nipped them that was a bite.  That is not the case.  Dogs will do that to let us humans know they are not happy with what is going on and they want to be left alone.  It is best we listen to their request.

It is always best to supervise children around dogs regardless of the temperament of the dog because like I said before, if it has teeth it can bite. 

Lets stop talking about specific breeds and start educating ourselves on personality and what it takes to be responsible pet owners.  Stop expecting animals to be humans.  Take your dog to training classes.  Supervise your dog while he/she is with your children and anyone, for that matter. 

We welcome respectful comments and questions.  Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Flipbook and don't forget to tell your friends and family about us.  As always, thanks for reading!

Should My Pet Lose Weight? Is It Really That Dangerous?

Some of us struggle with weight loss more than others and our pets may as well; so what can we do to help?  Well we should probably read our pet food label like we do our own and talking to the vet or a nutritionist is part of that process.  This will give you a myriad of answers depending on the person you talk to but I am confident one thing will be the same...lower caloric intake and increase exercise.  Seems to be the baseline for humans as well. 

One thing that is acceptable by a wide variety of vets to do is lower your pet's food consumption and substitute green beans for the remaining amount they are used to getting.  So if they are used to getting 3 cups of food at a time then give them 1.5 cups of pet food and 1.5 cups of green beans.  The beans have no calories at all but will give them the substance they are used to having and will help fill them up.

Feeding high protein, high moisture is important but the type of protein is just as important.  If you're feeding a higher fat protein then it's unlikely your pet will lose weight.  Lower proteins like turkey would be better for weight loss. 

Another trick, if it's within your schedule, is to feed them several small meals a day to keep them full, their insulin levels steady and they do not feel like they have to eat as if their next meal isn't coming for several hours.  This will also help their metabolism as well which is a key to helping their weight loss as well.

http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx

http://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/evr_ct_obesity_in_cats_and_what_to_do_about_an_overweight_cat#.UZTlpaAYGCo

http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/digestive/c_multi_Obesity#.UZTmLKAYGCo

So what can cause obesity in animals other than the obvious?  There are actually medical conditions such as thyroid disease, diabetes and believe it or not the spay/neuter of your pet can contribute to it as well.  This is not to say you shouldn't get your pet spayed/neutered but merely something to take note of and keep an eye on your pet's weight.

If putting your pet on a diet doesn't work then you may want to take him/her to the vet and have some blood work done to make sure there is no medical reason for the weight gain.

This is a chart that happens to be dogs that will show you how to tell if your dog is overweight.  It is the same for cats as well.  I try to make sure my dog has a waist (an indent toward the back legs) and if that starts going away then I know I am feeding him too much and I need to back off of his food or we need to start exercising more. 

I hope you will take this information to heart because obesity in animals is just as bad or worse for animals as it is for humans.  Diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain, are just some of the issues that can be created by extra weight in animals. 

Let us know if you have any comments or questions and by all means ask your vet about anything you have seen in this blog.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook and now Flipbook!  Your family and friends might be interested in knowing about us too so don't forget to tell them about us too.  As always, thanks for reading!

What Information Should You Trust When Looking Online? What Information Is Reliable?

Since we're all searching for answers on the internet nowadays I thought I would address what we should all be doing as pet parents when searching for answers.  The 'world wide web' is a fascinating place and full of great information and resources for us to gleen insight and answers. However, should we really be trusting this information and treating our pets ourselves?

My answer to that is no because there is no substitute for medical professional insight.  I am a person who will admittedly research things prior to calling people but I have experience in medical problems with both animals and humans.  While I will never know everything (nobody ever does) I feel I have the ability to recognize a true emergency and will rush my animal or myself or other family member to an emergency room in a heartbeat if I feel it's necessary.

My personal cat Joleigh

So how do we know what's helpful and what is random information someone made up?  That is the harder part.  I personally look for things that come from vets themselves who have experience, trainers, behaviorists, etc.  I look for the length of time they have been in their specific business.  I look at the actual experience they have in the field in which I'm researching.

I try to stay away from sites such as wikipedia because if universities do not allow it as a reliable resource then I won't trust it for information I'm looking for regarding the health of my furry and non-furry family members.  Wikipedia is also a site others can add information to which may or may not be verified by someone in that field.

Our society is so '.com' oriented that researching information isn't all that uncommon.  When we get into trouble when we start trusting all of the information we come across.  If we are uncertain so to what to do after looking at information and our pet is eating and drinking and not acting in immediate danger then I personally just call the vet and tell them what is going on and let them tell me what to do.  Often vets will tell you to bring your pet in because they can't make a diagnosis over the phone; however, giving the vet as much information as possible (yes, including things like feces and urine output, consistency, etc.) will help him/her tremendously.  I do that with a vet our animal rescue organization uses frequently.  I will send her an email sometimes including pictures to give her the best idea possible as to what is going on.  Sometimes a phone call is necessary as well.  If I do have to take the pet in then it will also save the vet time in asking unnecessary questions because he/she already knows some of the history.

I will never tell anyone not to go see their vet if it makes them feel better.  Ultimately that is the person who, besides you, knows your pet best.  If you just don't feel right about their condition or know that something "just isn't right" then you should always go with your gut feeling because that is usually right.  I have learned that the hard way through my years working with rescue animals.

My personal cat Blackberry

We all have our pets' best interest in mind and they are family members, but like our children we can't run them to the doctor every time they sneeze once and in my opinion you shouldn't.  Some things are just normal.  It's okay not to be paranoid but I would not disregard any gut feelings you have either.

Just use common sense when researching information and when all else fails and you still aren't sure what to do or where to go then call your vet.  They would rather you call and it be an easy question or nothing at all than to not call and it be something serious.

As always, thank you for reading and if you have any questions, comments or concerns please let us know.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook!  We also have a magazine on Flipbook you can subscribe to as well!  Tell you family and friends about us.

Should I Give My Pet People Food?

We've all done it when our pet gives us the sad eyes we will give up a little piece of meat or cheese because "they're just so cute" or "a little won't hurt them".  Well that little bit turns into "why won't they stop begging" or "why won't they eat their own food now; I haven't changed anything".  Should we as pet parents be giving our pets people food?  Does it really hurt anything to give them that "treat"?  I personally believe it does.

Physically it is okay once in a while to do this and give them some people food here and there, but in the long run all this behavior does is create a begging animal that thinks every time you have a plate of food part of it is for them.  This should not be the case.  If you have people at your home for dinner you do not want fido or fluffy (or even worse, both) staring at your guests for food.  Not only is it awkward for your guests, you end up continually telling your pet(s) to go away which is not good either because you cannot enjoy your time with friends.

So what do you do?  Well if you have a puppy you are already training then you should make this part of your training.  Have one place you have the puppy lay down during meal times.  Give him/her

something to chew on like a bully stick or an interactive toy.  Being occupied is the goal in this case so you and your family can enjoy meal time together.  If you already have a dog you have been giving food to then treat the dog like the puppy and train them to go lay down in one spot with their item to occupy them.  Do not give up and do not give them the option to do anything else but stay in that one spot.  You may even want to say something like "place" or "mat" so they will begin learning a command.  Praise them when they stay there throughout the whole meal.  That will help them learn that staying there the whole time is what you want them to do.  Eventually you will be able to use your command word and things will be smooth.  You can NOT give them people food ever again though.  That will ruin what training you have done and you will have to start over again.  If you want to give your dog a treat then get them their own treats and keep them separate from your food.

This is particularly important if you have infants and small children.  If your dog is used to getting people food and your child has food then the dog may go after the food and accidentally hurt the child.  None of us wants that so it's best just to keep human and pet food separate.

If you just can't give up on giving fido or fluffy their human food because you feel they just can't live without it then at least give them their own separate place to eat.  This will save you in the long run once they learn they can't eat from the table or that you aren't going to give them food from your plate.  You will be able to have dinner guests without worrying if your pet is going to beg them for food as if you don't feed them.

If you have any comments or questions please feel free to let us know.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and please tell your family and friends about us.  As always, thanks for reading!

How To Potty Train Your Puppy...

Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog that needs house training there is a lot of work and time that goes into that process.  It is also important to remember if you have rescued an animal that they may or may not have had the best history with humans so positive reinforcement is especially important with these animals.

So how does the process work?  Well there are several things to remember when doing this for your dog.  Having a crate can work to your benefit because dogs don't like to "go" where they sleep.  Get a crate that is just big enough for them to stand up and turn around in so they don't have enough room to go to the back and do their business.  While this won't guarantee a puppy won't mess up their crate it should help tremendously.  Adult dogs should be able to hold it all day, however.  Timing is also key when house training.  Puppies should be taken out frequently and especially after they have eaten or drank water.  They should be taken to the same area and when they do go potty then they should be praised so they know that was a positive action.  Watching adult dogs in the house while training is important because they tend to circle when looking for a spot.  When you see this happen, take your pet outside for a potty break and when they potty then praise them for that action just as you would a puppy.

http://www.dogtrainingbasics.com/Potty%20Training%20Basics.htm

Teaching a word for going potty is also good as well.  I personally use "outside" for my dogs.  They go crazy when I say it whether they have to potty or not and will at least try to potty when they do get in the backyard.  They know it's playtime and mom time when they get out there as well so all positive things for them.  If it's morning and I know they haven't finished everything when they want to go inside I will say "no, go potty" and point to the same area every time.  It does usually work the first time but sometimes takes a couple of times.

http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-articles/house-training-your-puppy

So what is going on with your dog if these things don't work?  Well your dog may have a medical issue such as a urinary tract infection that will cause him/her to urinate inappropriately.  Animals do things like this to tell us something is wrong.  Either they are not happy, they don't feel good or are uneasy about something.  Separation anxiety will also cause a myriad of problems and inappropriate elimination is one of them.  If you have recently changed your pet's food then s/he may have some gastrointestinal upset that is not pleasant for you or your pet. 

Please do not punish your pet for these actions because they do not like for these things to happen.  They simply want to please you and by doing these things they are telling you something is wrong.  They can't talk so this is the only way they know how to tell us when they don't feel good.  Take your pet to the vet or talk to a behaviorist or both.  There is always a reason for the action; that I can promise you.  I have worked with animals too long not to know this statement is true.

If you have any comments or questions we do welcome them.  Tell us any topic you'd like to see discussed and don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook!  Tell your family and friends about us and as always thanks for reading.

Time For A Poll!

So we've been doing this blog for almost two months now and we'd like to get your input!  What topics do you want to see here?  What do you want to see discussed on any blog?  What do you research the most?  What is most concerning to you?

Let us know what YOU want to talk about.  After all, you are the reason we do this in the first place.  You and your pet are important to us.  We just want to get the information out there to everyone and educate people. 

I've been in animal rescue for going on 7 years and I have seen and done a lot of things.  People can be very, very cruel or they can be very, very giving.  There has been one constant, though...the animals.  They are the ones who are 99.9% of the time forgiving and the ones who aren't can't help it because of emotional damage that is irreparable.

A friend and I even stopped and picked up a rabbit that had been hit by a car when we were on the way to our vet to see if it could be saved.  That is the kind of people animal rescuers are.  They want to save the ones that others drive by and think "oh that poor animal". 

But I digress.  We can talk about anything you want to read about.  If we don't know the answer then chances are someone we know will know.  We know the experts. 

Send us an email, tweet, message on Facebook or just leave us a note here!  Doesn't matter how you get it here, just tell us about it!

We love to talk about our animals and I know you do too.  We research everything our pets do and I know you do too so why not have one stop shopping.  Why not let us do the research for you?

Whatever it is please let us know.  Doesn't matter if it's medical, physical, mental, social, behavioral, etc.  Give it your best!

We look forward to hearing from all you regardless of where you're from.  Thanks for continuing to read and we appreciate each and every one of you.

How Dangerous Are Fleas and Ticks, Really?

As some of us get into warmer weather the threat of ticks and fleas comes to the forefront of our vets' minds.  Here in my area of the US people have started getting outside more with their pets.  I personally have found 2 ticks on me personally from one outing!  So ultimately how diligent should we as pet parents be with the flea and tick prevention?  Very diligent!  There are so many diseases these little creatures can pass along and it is so easy to prevent.  What are the diseases?  Well here are a few:  flea allergies, fur loss from the itching, if the fleas are in large numbers then anemia can occur which can be deadly, ticks carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, can cause Ehrlichiosis, and Lyme Disease.  Tapeworms are also extremely common when there is a flea issue.  Tapeworms occur when a flea is ingested by your pet (dog or cat).  They are not contagious but definitely need to be treated and you will need to treat all of your pets and your home and potentially your yard for fleas.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=318

http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/ticks-and-fleas-on-cats

A picture of flea dirt

So how do you know if your pet has fleas?  Well something called "flea dirt" is the best way to tell.  What does "flea dirt" look like?  Below is a picture of flea dirt in fur.  It literally looks like dirt; however, it is not dirt.  It is actually flea feces which is really gross to think about.  In order to help keep this from happening we can put the monthly flea prevention on our pets to keep them safe from this type of thing.  It can be dangerous and life threatening if it is not take care of in a timely fashion.  I have personally seen cats whose gums and paw pads were white from anemia due to flea infestation.  It is not a fun situation for them or you.

So what about ticks?  Are there ticks that are more dangerous than others?  All ticks should be repelled regardless as they can all spread a disease.  So my answer is no, there is no tick more dangerous than another since we should treat all ticks the same.  I've included some links below to common ticks to two areas and a link to the CDC regarding ticks in the US and abroad.  Just because you live or travel outside of the US does not mean you do not have to worry about bringing ticks back with you.

http://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/ticks

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/Urban/ticks.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/ticks/diseases/abroad.html

If you find a tick on you and it is crawling, then just get it off you.  If it is attached to you then precautions should be taken and there are lots of ways to remove the tick whole which is what you want to do.  Do not use anything other than what is listed here on the CDC website and the suggestions from either the Drs. Fosters and Smith or your vet.  There are a number of things you don't want to have happen and having the tick deposit more of it's diseased saliva into you or your pet is one of them.  Just try not to panic first if you see one.

http://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=62

The most important thing to do for you and your pet is prevention.  Flea, tick and heartworm prevention is key for your dog and flea and tick prevention for your cat.  Use Deet products on yourself while you're outside.  This way everyone will have a great time and the bugs can stay where they were meant to be...outside.

As always, feel free to leave your comments, questions and topics you'd like to see discussed here.  We like hearing from you.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and be sure to tell your family and friends about us!  Thanks for reading!

Why Does My Pet Eat Grass?

We've all seen our dogs and cats chew on grass and I'm sure wondered "why do they do that, they're just going to vomit it back up".  Well there are lots of potential reasons for this behavior and they range from "just because" to legitimate medical issues.  All of the reasons, while fairly benign, need to be watched because if your pet exhibits signs and/or symptoms that are new then you may want to put a call into the vet to see if it is something that bears a visit.  So what are the reasons?

Well, the first reason I found is literally because they can and it might just taste good.  If they are just chewing on the blades once in a while and not vomiting then really there is no need to be concerned.  Some animals just like the taste and want some extra fiber.  As long as there are no chemicals or pesticides to  worry about then let them graze.

http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/why-do-dogs-eat-grass

Another reason is their tummies are upset so they actually eat the grass to make themselves vomit so

they feel better.  If your pet seems to be less than him/herself lately and this is a new behavior then you will want to consider a call to your vet to discuss the behavior and a potential visit.  Sometimes once is enough for them but if this behavior continues several times over the course of a week then I would definitely consider a visit to make sure nothing is wrong.  Better safe than sorry, in my opinion.

http://www.vetlive.com/2011/02/21/online-vet-answers-why-do-dogs-eat-grass/

Dogs, unlike cats, are not carnivores and actually need roughage so when your dog eats grass it is really completely normal.  While cats are carnivores they still need the nutrition that comes from plants in their diet as well.  This is why nutrition is so very important for your pet.

http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/nutritioninformation/f/FAQ_eatgrass.htm

http://pets.thenest.com/dog-eat-grass-vomit-4440.html

So what do we, as parents, do about this behavior?  Well, I have admit the answer to that is as long as your pet is acting normally and eating and drinking properly then we do nothing because it is very normal behavior.  Maybe grow some for your pet to chew on inside if you are concerned about chemicals and pesticides.

 If their behavior changes, vomiting continues for 24 hours or more or they are not eating or drinking that is the time to seek medical advice.

Any change in your pet's behavior should indicate something is wrong even if it is slight.  They will always give us clues and indications they do not feel good so make sure you know your pet and his/her behaviors so you will know when something is not right.

As always we welcome comments, questions and any topic you'd like to see discussed here.  Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and Google+!  Tell your family and friends about us and thanks so very much for reading.

Want To Give Back To The Community But Don't Know How? Here's An Idea!

I am working in conjunction with the great people at Calvin's Paws to hold a fund raiser.  This fundraiser will benefit animals like Bob (pictured on the right) who came from a local military vet who found him with his tail injured.  The vet tested him for FIV and Feline Leukemia and Bob came back positive for FIV.  Most vets do not understand FIV and want to euthanize the cat but not this one.  He did not want to do this and did the surgery on Bob to amputate his tail and called Calvin's Paws.  They said they would take him into their program and profusely thanked him for saving Bob's life.  Bob is now a happy healthy boy waiting for his forever home.

On the left we have Mary Russell.  She was found at a church by a good Samaritan covered in so many fleas she was anemic.  She was given a couple of baths to get rid of all the fleas, lots of good food with liver (to help with the anemia) and all of her medical treatment.  Her fosters were really afraid she wasn't going to make it but kept the faith and worked very hard with her and as you can tell by the picture she is very spoiled.  She doesn't have a voice, however, and whispers which her adoptive mom (which just happens to be the foster home also) loves very much. 

Here on the right is Meerkat.  He was found with his brother, Manor. When these precious boys first came to their foster home they sat up like little meerkats which is where they got their names.  Manor left his foster home to find his forever home.  However, Meerkat's foster mom could not let his special little boy go so she adopted him!  He was very sick as a kitten often running a temperature of over 103 which is definitely high for a cat whose normal temperature is 102.  She would often stay home from work with him because she couldn't bear to leave him home alone so sick when all he wanted was to be held because he didn't feel good.

Yes, he is definitely a spoiled little boy who is able to get into cabinets and retrieve his own treats now.  He is definitely mischievous but just look at that cute little face..how can you resist.


Animal rescue is thankless, tireless and ultimately rewarding when these precious furkids find their forever homes.  I have had the pleasure of working with some of the most giving people I have ever met who have the biggest hearts in the world.  Their pockets are always empty, their homes are never clean (to most people's standards) but their hearts are always full of love with these animals. 

Whether they are fostering cats, dogs or both there is never a dull moment and always something to do but when you see them in a great home with a great family who spoils them more than you could ever imagine it is worth it. 

These people need our help!  It takes money to do what they do and they work off not only donations but their own money sometimes and there is truly never enough.  If you want to give back to the community now is your chance!  By purchasing some items from amyedwards.scentsy.us (the Calvin's Paws fundraiser party) you are giving to the cause.  There are tons of products to choose from and 80 scents to choose from.  If you are interested or have any questions at all please contact me and I can give you direction.  You will be getting a great product and helping a great cause at the same time.  What better way to spend your money and a little time!

For any comments or questions please send me an email with "Calvin's Paws fundraiser" in the subject line and I will get back to you quickly.  If you have a topic you'd like to see discussed here please let us know.  Please tell your friends and family not only about the blog itself but about this great fundraiser!  Thanks for reading!