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- Senior Cats Need Special Care
“Friends for Life: Caring for Your Older Cat” is a 32 page handbook based on information from the recently revised “Senior Care Guidelines” published by the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and contains information on:
Total number of pets owned in the United States
- Signs of diseases that affect older cats, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease and osteoarthritis
- Providing optimal nutrition, including tips on how to entice finicky cats to eat
- Effective medication administration
- Behavior changes as cats age
You can obtain an electronic version of the handbook at www.catvets.com
NUTRITION©WORK Winter 2010
- On-the-Go Info
From dog parks and beaches to campgrounds and hotels, a new “petcentric places” iPhone® application lets users quickly locate pet-friendly destinations and services. Convenient features make it easy to search, share photos, add and rate locations, and access pet tips. The application can be downloaded at no charge from the iTunes® App Store™.
NUTRITION©WORK Winter 2010
- Whisker Wisdom
Similar to people-who smile and frown to show emotion- cats use their prominent facial whiskers’ position and amount of spread to communicate three distinct moods:
- Shy or afraid- Closely bunched whiskers lying flat against a cat’s cheeks make its face appear smaller and less threatening. This look can also mean your cat is angry or feels vulnerable. This position is typical of cats that are feeding or are greeting another cat.
- Tense or excited- Your cat needs to sense all outside stimuli when hunting, playing, or walking, so its whiskers will be bristling, fully fanned and bending almost straight forward. When the long whiskers are positioned this way, the shorter facial whiskers will bend forward as well to allow your cat to assess prey positions.
- Content or calm- The whiskers will be pushed neither forward nor back, but resting somewhere in between since your cat has no reason to sense its environment.
In experiments, whiskerless cats repeatedly missed their prey when springing for it. Forcing whiskers into a position counter to their natural alignment causes discomfort and may trigger a swat from a cat with claws fully arrayed. As with other types of hair, whiskers are shed periodically, but not to worry: A healthy replacement will grow in.
CATWATCH March 2010
- Stinky Breath Solutions
Although bad breath requires a vet visit to discuss dental health and diet, you can freshen your dog’s breath daily with some everyday items: a washcloth, raw carrots, or a toothbrush, for example. “Daily brushing with dog toothpaste is the gold standard for good breath,” says Carol Akers, D.V.M., of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne. No dog toothpaste at hand? “Just brushing with water alone will help remove the plaque that leads to periodontal disease-the leading cause of bad breath,” Akers says. Other handy tools include a fingertip brush or a dental sponge, suggests Jeff Slaughter, a master groomer at The Muttley Crew in Portland, Oregon. If brushing is still too difficult, Akers offers an option: “Simply wipe down the outside surfaces of the dog’s teeth with a moist washcloth each day.” For a natural breath freshener, give your dog raw carrots, Slaughter says. How to choose dental and breath treats from the wide assortment available? Akers says to look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance, which have been subjected to specific trials.
Lynn M. Hayner, DOGFANCY, March 2010
- Spring Cleaning Tips
With springtime come mud and shedding, so keeping your dog’s bedding clean can be a challenge. Pet lifestyle expert Kristen Levine of Tarpon Springs, Florida, suggests stopping dirt and fur at your front door. “Rub your dog down with a towel after walks, including paws, and especially on rainy days,” she says. “Also, brush your dog regularly.” Run a load of pet laundry-towels, blankets, and removable bed covers-on a routine basis. Don’t forget soft toys and pillows, as many are machine washable, too. Start by shaking blankets outside to remove loose hair, then wash with hot water and a dye- and fragrance-free detergent. To eliminate doggie odor, add a half-cup of baking soda to the water. Your dog might enjoy the fresh outdoorsy smell that comes from drying her things on a clothesline on a sunny day. Otherwise, most items can go through the dryer; just avoid fragranced dryer sheets because the scent may irritate your pup’s skin.
Debbie Swanson, DOGFANCY, March 2010
- The Labrador Retriever-A Crowd Favorite
Friendly, eager to please, patient with children and other pets, easy to train, and attuned to his human companions, the Labrador Retriever has been America’s most popular purebred since 1991, according to American Kennel Club registration statistics. Labrador Retrievers began as fishermen’s helpers on the Canadian coast of Newfoundland, not Labrador, as their name suggests. The smaller of two types of St. John’s Water Dogs, they retrieved lost nets, rescued men fallen overboard, hauled and guarded the daily catch, and even pulled boats to shore. Travelers returned home with them to England and America in the late 19th century. Water retrieving and upland game hunting became Lab’s specialties in the United States. They evolved into excellent retrievers and gun dogs. Labs also excel at competitive obedience and agility, as well as assistance, guide, therapy and search-and-rescue dogs. A medium-sized breed with a short, dense, weatherproof coat in black, yellow, or chocolate, Labs average about 21 ½ to 23 ½ inches tall at the shoulder, with males slightly larger. Labs can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and hypothyroidism, but most are generally healthy. However, they become obese easily and require vigorous daily exercise. For more information about Labrador Retrievers, visit The Labrador Retriever Club at www.thelabradorclub.com.
- The Pleasures (and Perils) of Catnip
The catnip plant is a perennial member of the mint family, and worth having around if your household includes cats. Carolyn McDaniel, DVM, a consultant at the Feline Health Center at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, says, “Catnip is non-toxic, non-addictive, and low calorie…I think catnip can be a valuable part of an indoor cat’s environmental enrichment.” The entire catnip plant is covered with microscopic bulbs that contain nepetalactone. When these bulbs reach maturity, they burst, releasing the oil, which then vaporizes upon exposure to air. Brushing against the leaves of a catnip plant bruises them enough to release the oil, which is why you might see your cat leaning into or rubbing against the plant. The oil can also be released by a cat chewing on the leaves. Despite cats’ fondness for munching on catnip, their response to nepetalactone is triggered by the olfactory system (which senses and processes odor), not by the digestive system. What does catnip actually do to cats? It’s been suggested that nepetalactone is a cat aphrodisiac, cats roll on the floor in response to catnip, just like female cats do when in estrus. However, since male cats roll on the floor too, and since the other behaviors associated with catnip are not related to sexual behavior, catnip as an aphrodisiac is unlikely. Dr. McDaniel says the chemical structure of nepetalactone is unlike any naturally occurring feline pheromone. (Pheromones, like human hormones, produce a chemical reaction in cats that affects their behavior.) Instead, she says “nepetalactone seems to have excitatory and mildly hallucinogenic effects.” Additionally, not every cat responds to catnip the same way. Some cats become aggressive and may initiate fights with other animals; some get unusually active. Other cats act drunk, drooling and rolling on the ground. The Non-Timber Forest Products Program at Virginia Tech lists the classic response to catnip as the following sequence: “sniffing, followed by licking and chewing with head shaking, then chin and cheek rubbing, and finally a head-over roll and body rubbing.” According to Dr. McDaniel, you don’t have to worry about your cat overdosing on catnip. The response only lasts from five to fifteen minutes, regardless of how much your cat is exposed to. After that, it takes an hour or more before the cat’s nepetalactone receptors will respond to catnip again. This acts like a built-in safety mechanism, preventing the cat from any danger of overindulgence. As a result, Dr. McDaniel says, “There is no indication that catnip can cause seizures in cats…or any other problem.”
CATWATCH May 2009
- What is America's Favorite Pet?
According to the American Pet Products Association 2009/2010 National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet (71.4 million homes). Dogs live in 45.6 million households and cats own 38.2 million households.
Total number of pets owned in the United States
- Cats: 93.6 million
- Dogs: 77.5 million
- Birds: 15 million
- Small Animal: 15.9 million
- Equine: 13.3 million
- Freshwater Fish: 171.7 million
- Saltwater Fish: 11.2 million
- Reptile: 13.6 million
- 2009 AKC Top 10 Breeds
- Labrador Retriever
- Yorkshire Terrier
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Dachshund
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Shih Tzu
This list was compiled from AKC registrations in 2008.
- Plaque and Tartar What's the Difference?
Plaque is the soft film
made up of saliva, mucous, bacteria and leftover food that builds up on
the teeth's surface when they aren't brushed.
Tartar is
a hard substance made up of calcium and phosphorous that forms at the
gum line when the teeth aren't brushed regularly. It harbors and
attracts more plaque and bacteria, which can lead to gum disease,
gingivitis, halitosis and more.
If left unchecked, both can lead to painful periodontal disease.
"Remember that the first signs of this disease is that there are no
signs," says Jan Bellows, DVM.
Cat Fancy February 2008
- I'm Hungry!
Tips for a begging or whining dog:
- Chase him up and down the stairs
- Go for a walk
- Teach him a new trick
- Practice an obedience command
- Brush his coat
- Give him a doggie massage
- Crate him with a favorite toy
- Ditch
Doggie Dandruff
 Sick
of dry skin flaking all over your furniture? Get rid of your dog's
dandruff in five easy steps:
- Brush
daily
- Bathe with hypoallergenic,
moisturizing shampoo
- Bathe in warm
or cool water, not hot
- Use a
moisturizing conditioner or cream rinse
- Give
your dog omega-3 fatty acid supplements
If you see scabs or oozing, make an appointment with your
veterinarian.
- Whisker Smarts
- There
are roughly 12 mystacials (upper lip whiskers) on each
side of a cat's muzzle mostly for navigation.
- Superciliary (above the eyes) and genal (cheek) whiskers trigger
protective eye blink and warn of danger.
- Carpal (wrist) whiskers help capture prey and aid in climbing.
- Whisker follicles are embedded three times deeper
beneath the skin than normal hairs.
To learn more about a cat’s whiskers visit http://animal.discovery.com/cat-guide/cat-anatomy/sense-of-touch.html
- Train Your Dog to Shake It!
 Are you tired of your dog
waiting until she's in the house to shake off the rain? Then teach her
to shake it on command. You can teach this useful trick through
association, pairing a word with the action when your dog does it on
her own. Any time you see your dog shaking off water, grass, or an
annoying fly, tell her "Shake it" and praise her enthusiastically,
until she makes the connection and shakes on cue.
Once your dog understands the command, delay an oncoming shake by
placing your hand gently but firmly on her back. Tell her "Hold off,"
and quickly give her a treat. This additional cue allows you time to
get a towel or move out of the line of fire.
- Tips to Help
Cats Age Gracefully
- Add
activities. Moderate exercise remains extremely useful.
- Increase
pampering. Feed what the cat wants, within healthy guidelines.
- Supplement
the diet. With your veterinarian's assistance, add supplements,
vitamins and antioxidants.
- Avoid stress. A new
kitten or other big changes might be too much for an elderly cat.
- Add
comfort. Consider a new bed and a more comfortable furniture
arrangement.
- Several natural remedies exist to
calm animals or induce sleep. These include melatonin, valerian and
Bach flower remedies. Synthetic pheromones, such as Feliway, also can
help.
- Make the litterbox more accessible.
- Maintain
the cat's weight, and consider elevating the food bowls.
- Increase
daily interaction with the cat.
- Play It Safe
The ASPCA
offers these tips for water safety:
- Never leave your dog unsupervised
around the pool.
- If your
dog is not a strong swimmer, introduce him to the water gradually.
Also, consider training him to exit the pool via a floating pet ramp.
- If you go boating, make sure your
dog wears a pet flotation device.
- Try
not to let your dog drink pool water. It contains chlorine and other
chemicals that can upset his stomach. Ocean water may nauseate him too.
- Term Defined:
Boundary Training
Left
to their own devices, cats will leave no spot in your house untouched.
They are independent and curious creatures, which we love about them.
Boundary training teaches your cat where it can and cannot go in your
home, to avoid danger or unwanted visits at the dinner table, and more.
Start the training early with these helpful tips:
- Spray your cat with
water (never in the face) every time it goes somewhere
off-limits. This is startling, not hurtful, and it's a great way to keep
cats off the curtains and other vertical spaces. Also, shake a can
of pennies or create another loud noise to startle the cat away. Hide
that you are the source of the negative reinforcement.
- Set boundary lines using
double-sided sticky tape or aluminum foil on the ground or counter.
Also, shut doors leading to "no kitty" areas.
- Reward good behavior with treats and
praise. Never hit, as it only makes the cat fearful and aggressive.
- Stay consistent. While young kittens take to boundary training the fastest, older cats
eventually make the association with your patience.
- Indoor fence. For a particularly troublesome area, consider an indoor fence barrier system.
Make your cat
think it's choosing to remain within boundaries to avoid the water,
sticky tape, loud noise, etc. Eventually it will become a habit.
- Quick Tips
Simple ways
to keep your cat safe at home while you're away:
- Lock it up. You'd
be surprised how easily your cat can get into inappropriate places.
Keep anything that could cause harm, such as string, breakables or
plants, locked in a cabinet or way out-of-reach.
- Prevent falls. Just because your cat isn't
climbing on the ledge when you're around doesn't mean it doesn't when
you're away. Find ways to prevent your cat from getting to high spots
where it could fall by blocking off those areas of your household.
- Escape routes. Keep your cat
safely indoors by checking and double-checking that any possible way
out of the house is closed and locked.
- Too
Squeaky Clean?
You take a shower everyday, but
your dog doesn't need to be bathed nearly as often. In fact, dogs can develop
skin irritations from too much bathing. For long-coated breeds and show
dogs, a monthly shampoo and blow-dry make sense. If you have a
short-coated breed or dog with sensitive skin, bathe only when he/she
starts to smell or gets visibly dirty. A bath every three to four months is
plenty for most dogs.
- Make the
Medicine Go Down
Like kids, dogs don't eagerly take their medication. However,
there are ways to get the job done without too much stress and fuss:
The
old meatball trick. If the medication
can be given with food, simply stuff the pill inside a tasty morsel. If
your dog's too smart for that, give a tasty morsel without pill, then a
morsel with pill, followed quickly by a third plain morsel. Make sure,
though, that she doesn't spit out the medication.
"Pillers." These syringe-like devices place pills on the back of your
dog's tongue. A new piller on the market goes one step further by
squirting water and the medication into her mouth.
Compounding
pharmacies. These companies add tasty flavors to medication,
or turn it into a more palatable form, such as a chewable tab or liquid.
Pill Pockets. Very tasty treat with a pocket in the center to hold the medication. Just squeeze the end closed after placing the medication inside the treat. Available for dogs and cats.
The Basics. If none of the above works,
you'll have to pill your dog. Here's how: With one hand tilt your dog's
head back and press behind her canine teeth to open her mouth. With the
other hand, quickly place the medication on the back of her tongue.
Then gently, and briefly, hold her muzzle shut to encourage swallowing.
Follow with a tasty treat.
DOGFANCY July 2007
-
 Springtime
Plants and Your Feline
Top Ten Toxic
Plants
- Lilies
- Sago
Palm
- Tulip/Narcissus bulbs
- Azalea/Rhododendron
- Cyclamen
- Marijuana
- Oleander
- Castor Bean
- Kalanchoe
- Yew
Feline Friendly Favorites
- Alyssum
- Bachelor's
buttons
- Bamboo
- Brazilian orchid
- Bride's
bonnet
- Cape Jasmine
- Carex evergold
- Christmas
orchid
- Confederate jasmine
- Dwarf asters
- Dwarf
zinnias
- Easter Daisy
- Garden marigold
- German
violet
- Gold bloom
- Honeysuckle fuchsia
- Heuchera
- Hypoestes
- Irish
moss
- Jacob's ladder
- Lace orchid
- Moss
rose
- Pansy orchid
- Summer Hyacinth
- Umbrella
plant
- Wild Hyacinth
- Wild strawberry
- Viola
odorata
CATFANCY November 2006
- Celebrate
Pet First Aid Month Through Preparation
 April marks
National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, so what better time to prepare
for emergencies? Here's what you need to be prepared for a cat crisis
in your home:
- Realize that first aid does not substitute for veterinary
treatment. Basic knowledge, however, can help while you get your pet to
the veterinarian.
- Learn what is normal behavior
and appearance for your cats to quickly notice when something is amiss.
- Keep the telephone numbers and driving directions for your
veterinarian, an after-hours veterinary clinic and a poison-control
center on hand. Call ahead, if possible.
- Approach sick cats slowly and cautiously. Avoid quick or loud movements to
keep from scaring your pet. Use a towel or blanket if your cat acts
aggressively.
- Consider taking a Pet First Aid
course. Contact your local American Red Cross center (www.redcross.org)
for classes.
- Purchase or create a cat-specific
first-aid kit for your home. It should include:
- Thermometer (a
safe temperature is between 100 and 103 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Sterile
gauze rolls for bandages
- Adhesive tape for
bandages
- Tweezers
- Pillowcase
to confine your cat for treatment.
- Pet carrier
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Splints and
tongue depressors
- Penlight or flashlight
- Scissors
- Sterile saline solution for
flushing wounds
- Latex gloves
- Ear-cleaning
solution
- Nail clippers
- Towels
and cloth to keep cats warm during transport
- Styptic
powder, sticks or cornstarch to stop bleeding.
- Eye
dropper or oral syringe for oral treatments
- Wound
disinfectant (such as iodine)
- Grease-cutting dish
soap
- Cold packs and heat packs (wrap in towel
prior to use)
- Bitter-tasting product to
discourage licking
CATFANCY April 2007
- Safety on Spring Walks
 Flowers are blooming, lawns
are turning green, and the milder weather calls both humans and dogs
outdoors to enjoy it. But not everything about spring is sweet and
mild. There are things to watch for when you and your puppy are out
walking. Steer clear of these common springtime items that could harm
your pup:
- Mushrooms have many poisonous varieties.
- Daffodils,
crocuses, irises, and many other bulbs or tuber-rooted flowers have
toxic or caustic properties.
- Toads and frogs of
certain types exude toxins when touched.
- Poisonous
snakes and insects become active in springtime.
- Honeybees
are busy wherever flowers bloom, and their buzzing and movement can
attract your pup's attention.
- Skunks, to be
avoided at all costs, become more active, especially during twilight
hours.
DOGFANCY April 2007
- Manage
a Medical Crisis with These 7 Tips
 Hit by a
car. If your dog is injured and can't walk, use a sheet of
plywood or a large box as a stretcher to get her into the car safely.
Place a blanket over her to keep her warm, and try to control any
bleeding with direct pressure.
Poisoning. If you know what your dog swallowed, immediately call your vet or an
animal poison control center. The American Society for the Prevention
of Cruelty to Animals has a 24-hour hotline at 888-426-4435 (a fee does
apply). Don't make your dog vomit unless you are instructed to do so.
If you don't know what your dog ate, collect any vomit, diarrhea, or
urine and take it with you to the hospital. If you know what your
animal ate, take the container that lists ingredients. Visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ for a free pet safety pack.
Choking. If you can see the obstruction, try removing it with pliers or tweezers
-- but be very careful not to get bitten. If you can't see anything, or
your dog is collapsing, grasp him under the rib cage holding your fists
together and make an upward thrust, sharp and short, and see if the
object dislodges.
Heatstroke. If you think your dog may have overheated, hose her down with cool
water, not ice cold water, which can make the animal worse. Focus on
the footpads. Once you have applied some water, take your dog to the
vet immediately. Don't waste time taking your dog's temperature.
Heatstroke is a potentially life-threatening problem.
Wounds. For excessive bleeding, apply pressure using a clean cloth or a
sanitary feminine napkin. Don't keep looking at the wound. You will
disrupt the clot. If the wound is wider than 1/2 inch, or if there is a
lot of blood, see your vet immediately.
Burns. Place a cool, clean cloth on the area, and see your veterinarian.
Sometimes you don't know for days the extent of the burn.
Lameness. Anything from a sprained tendon or ligament, to a minor non-displaced
fracture, to a neurological problem can cause lameness. It is usually
best not to wrap it. Instead, carefully get your dog into the car and
head to your vet.
DOGFANCY April 2007
 Did You Know: Pets and the
Workplace
According to the 2007-2008 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc.:
- 75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace makes people happier
- 70 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace reduces stress
- 47 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment
- 37 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases absenteeism
- 41 million believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better
- 46 million believe having pets in the workplace creates a more productive work environment
- 23 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases smoking in the workplace
- 34 million people who bring their pets to the workplace work longer hours
- The most common pet brought to work is a dog (76%), while 24% bring a small animal and 15% bring a cat
Most people polled believe that having pets at work offers benefits, such as relieving stress, improving relationships with co-workers, and creating a happier work environment. It seems, both in the home and at work, our pets work to help better our lives! - Little Gifts, Big Rewards —
8 Ways to
Make a Difference for Homeless Dogs
- Volunteer. From dog walking to kennel cleaning, there are dozens of things that
you can do to help. "Many groups are just as happy to
have time donated," says Stephanie Shain, Director of Outreach at the
Humane Society of the United States. Help transport dogs from shelters
to rescue groups, work at an adoption event, wash and groom dogs,
address envelopes, or walk pups during your lunch hour. Or simply
volunteer your time and love.
- Offer your
talents. Love photography? Can you create a website in your
sleep? Are you a fantastic people person? Having clear photos in
newsletters, a professional-looking website, or just a friendly face
greeting visitors can be a huge help to animal welfare groups.
- Foster. Rescue groups are often limited in
the number of dogs they can save due to space constraints. By
temporarily offering your home and care, you are giving a rescue dog
valuable time to find a permanent family.
- Donate. Be it money, food, toys, towels, leashes, or blankets, donations are
needed. Call to see what's on the group's wish list.
- Get
creative. During your office party or tree-decorating
get-together, suggest everyone contribute $20 or a bag of dog food for
your local nonprofit shelter or rescue. Perhaps you could even dress as
Santa and pose for pictures at the shelter with adopted dogs and
families.
- Spay or neuter. Curb
overpopulation at the source by making sure your dog is fixed. Help
others in your community do the same.
- Offer
your space. If you own a business or are a member of a civic
organization, see if you can host an adoption event on-site.
- Spread the word. Use slogans on your email
and return-address labels ("Save a life: Adopt a shelter dog.")
- How to Harness Train Your Cat
 Go
slowly and be patient. Leave the harness lying around for a few days
and let your cat investigate it.- Easy does it.
Place the harness on your cat and reward her with praise and treats.
- Distract her. If your cat seems uncomfortable wearing the
harness, play with her until she becomes accustomed to it.
- Attach
the leash. Let your cat drag the leash around the house, but be careful
that she doesn't become tangled. Do this until she appears comfortable
with the leash.
- The next step: pick up the other
end of the leash and try walking with your cat. Encourage her to follow
the tasty treats in your hand.
- Don't tug on the
leash. This may cause your cat to go on strike and flop over, or it may
teach her that wearing a leash is unpleasant.
- Build
positive reinforcement. Choose a quiet time of day and a short amount
of time for those first outdoor explorations. Let your cat set the
pace. If she enjoys her outings, gradually work up to longer adventures
together.
- Be sure to put safety first. Keep your cat up-to-date on vaccinations and have a reliable ID, such as a microchip.
CATWATCH October 2006
- Bring Back the Toy
 Fetch
is a cooperative game- at least it's supposed to be. If you'd like your
pup to return her fetch toy instead of teasing you with it, try the
magazine method. This technique requires a securely fenced yard or an
indoor play area, a fetch toy, a chair, and a magazine.
Sit in the chair, and throw the toy. Open your magazine, and start
reading. Ignore your dog. If you act like you want that toy yourself,
your dog won't want to give it up.
When your
puppy realizes you're not paying attention to her, she'll try to get
you back in the game. Wait until she approaches with the toy, then,
without looking up from your magazine, present your hand- palm up- at
your side or in your lap, ready to receive the object. Don't reach
toward the toy. Just leave your hand in that passive receiving
position.
When you finally feel the toy touch
your hand, praise your pup. Don't try to grab the toy; wait until she
releases it. At first, she might just touch it to your hand then pull
away, hoping you'll try to chase her and play keep-away. If this
happens, just continue reading. If your dog puts the toy in your hand
or drops it where you can easily reach it, put down your magazine,
smile, praise, and throw it.
It may take
several sessions playing by these new rules before your pup realizes
that keep-away stops the fetch game. Soon, though, she'll discover that
returning the toy and giving it to you keeps the game going and makes
it more fun for everyone.
DOGFANCY November 2006
- Reveal the Puppy Within
Tips for keeping your aging friend's mind and body
energized:
 Grab a Leash.
Take a stroll with your dog, giving her time to stop and smell the
roses- as well as the grass, trees, and bushes.- Be
a Chauffeur. Go on short trips or errands with your dog,
such as to the bank or post office. Consider getting coffee at an
outdoor café where your dog can drink in the surroundings
with you. Better yet, stop at a dog bakery so she can have a yummy,
healthy treat.
- Buy an Interactive
Toy. Hollow rubber toys come in a variety of shapes.
Stuff tasty treats inside, and let your dog think of ways to get the
kibble out. Some push and paw, others throw the toys across the room,
hoping a few morsels will magically appear. Whatever the method, your
senior dog can stay mentally stimulated, even when you're not around.
- Play a Game. Have your dog chase
bubbles, find hidden treats, or fetch a ball. The purpose is just to
get the dog to be mentally active.
DOGFANCY May 2006
- Reducing the Risk
Based on current understanding of feline cancer and its
causes, owners can play a significant role in reducing the chances that
their cats get the disease by:
- Keeping them indoors in order to
minimize sunlight and exposure to viral infection
- Avoiding
regular exposure to tobacco smoke
- Having females
spayed at an early age
- Refraining from feeding
them tuna fish
- Limiting vaccinations to those
that their veterinarian consider essential
Also, owners should make sure that their cats undergo routine
veterinary examinations in order to improve the odds of early cancer
detection.
CATWATCH April 2006
- Get Moving!
 It's nice
to take a break and catch some couch-potato time, but too much of it
can be a problem. To the list of ailments shared by you and your
four-footed companion, add arthritis. According to the Arthritis
Foundation, 66 million Americans are affected by a form of arthritis,
as is one in every five adult dogs in the US. For dogs and people,
walking is one of the best ways to reduce joint pain and stiffness,
build muscle, and promote weight loss, all of which improve our overall
health generally and ameliorate the effects of osteoarthritis
specifically. So, off the couch, on your feet, and out the door. Move,
and follow your dog's example by stopping to smell the roses- or ocean
breeze or sagebrush desert- occasionally. You'll both feel better.
Bark March/April 2006
- The
Bird Flu, Cats, and You
 3 Tips to Protect Your Cat
From Bird Flu:
Keep
your cats indoors. Keeping your cats indoors protects them from coming
into contact with infected birds.
Don't feed your
cat raw or undercooked meat: Some lions and tigers were fed raw,
infected birds and they got the avian flu. Asia 2004
Keep your cats away from other sick cats: the odds are
that the other sick cats aren't infected with bird flu, but even if
it's not the avian flu, you don't want to expose your cat to any illnesses which might be contagious.
CAT FANCY June 2006
- Apple
Cider Power
 You might
have a miracle skin conditioner right in your kitchen - apple cider
vinegar. Use it straight, or mix it 50/50 with water to relieve itching
and to condition your dog's skin and hair. Shampoo your dog as you normally do, and add a final rinse of the cider or cider-water mix
to soften her coat, eliminate dandruff, and give her fur a lustrous
sheen. You can apply it with a spray bottle or pour from a cup. A
diluted vinegar solution doesn't need to be rinsed, but don't use it if
your dog has a cut or sore.
DOGFANCY June 2006
- Get
Fit with Fido!!
 Man's best
friend might be a dieter's best pal too. In a recent study from the
University of Missouri-Columbia, overweight individuals who walked a
dog every day lost an average of 14 pounds over the course of a year.
Can't commit to taking care of a dog? Participants in this research
used loaners from a student group called Pet-Assisted Love and Support.
Similar programs are available in many communities, and local shelters
often welcome volunteer walkers.
- 5 Cool Down Tips
 Overheated
dogs can often recover fully from heat stress with simple help. Your
goal is to bring your dog's temperature back to normal. Do not place your dog in an ice bath, as this will result in your dog’s temperature plummeting precipitously.
- Take your dog to a shady place.
- Provide plenty of drinking water.
- Sponge
cool water onto his limbs or spray them with a hose.
- Let
him walk through a sprinkler. Prefer a kiddie pool? Just a few inches
of water will do; the idea is to wet his limbs.
DOGFANCY June 2006
- GPS for Your K-9
It's probably every pet owner's worst nightmare: having their pet disappear without a trace. With developments in GPS (global positioning system) and GSM (global system for mobile communications) technology, however, the ability to locate a pup which has gone astray is back in your hands. Because the portable GPS transmitter is attached to your dog, it goes wherever she goes. Although the systems can't keep your dog out of harm's way, they can emit a signal that will help you find her once again.
- Police Praise Poodle
Japanese police in the city of Mainichi have
honored a Poodle for promoting road safety, according to the Mainichi
Daily News. During a national road-safety event, Pluto the Poodle
walked about 65 feet on his hind legs over a pedestrian crossing
wearing a sign that read "traffic safety." After his trick, Pluto
marched (or hopped) into the police station, where he received a tasty
reward.
- What's in a Name?
Among the most colorful aspects of purebred dogs are the nicknames
various AKC breeds have acquired over the years. Here are just a few of
these monikers. Some are archaic, others are still in use, but they all
in some way suggest the breed's beginnings or its basic character.
AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG
Queensland Blue Heeler
BOSTON TERRIER
The American Gentleman
CARDIGAN WELSH CORGI
The Yard Long Dog
DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER
The Big Little Dog
GREAT DANE
The Apollo of Dogdom
HAVANESE
The Havana Silk Dog
IRISH TERRIER
The
D'Artagnan of the Show Ring
ROTTWEILER
The Roman Legion Dog
SAINT BERNARD
Hospice Dog
SCOTTISH DEERHOUND
Royal
Dog of Scotland
 How to
Handle Skunk Smells
Male skunks often engage in "spritzing" their surroundings -- and that
might include your home. Laura Simon, Urban Wildlife Director for the
Fund for Animals, recommends using a product called Odors Away that
will quickly neutralize the skunk odor. It can be found at most
hardware stores.
If your dog or cat is the
target, he or she can be quickly deodorized by mixing one quart
hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of baking soda and a teaspoon of any
liquid dish soap. Just apply and rinse -- the effect is magical.
- Pet Survival Kit
 You may have to leave your
house during a disaster and sleep somewhere else. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has the following recommendations regarding what you should pack for your pets. For additional information visit the FEMA website at http://www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/animals.shtm
- A two week supply of canned pet food
and treats.
- Drinkable water in plastic bottles.
- A two week supply of your pet medications.
- Can
opener for canned food.
- Pet medications and
medical records in waterproof container.
- Sturdy
leashes, harnesses and/or carriers so you can move your pets safely and
they can't escape.
- Current photos of your pets in
case they get lost.
- The name and phone number of
your veterinarian.
- Pet beds and toys if there is
room.
- Study Funded to Optimize the Quality of Life
of Farm Animals
Scottish
researchers were awarded £2.6 million from the United
Kingdom's primary funding agency for the life sciences. The research
will examine stress on farm animals and their young and look at ways to
improve their welfare. Scientists and veterinarians plan to examine
early life events, such as stress before birth and tail docking in the
first days of life, and determine the long-term effects on young
livestock. One of their goals is to focus attention on the need to
avoid adverse early life challenges to animals to ensure their future
health and welfare and optimize their quality of life.
- Hookworm
Vaccine Beneficial in Dogs
Hookworm infections are a significant cause of
intestinal blood loss and iron-deficient anemia, affecting up to
one-fifth of the world's human population. Contaminated soil is the
biggest risk factor. The parasites digest hemoglobin in their
intestines, using a cascade of proteolysis that begins with a protein
called APR-1. Vaccinating dogs with recombinant Ac-APR-1 induced
antibody and cellular responses and resulted in significantly reduced
hookworm burdens and fecal egg counts compared with control dogs after
challenge with infective larvae of Ancylostoma caninum. Most important,
vaccinated dogs were protected against blood loss and did not develop
anemia.
Clinical trials are underway to test the safety of a
first-of-its-kind human hookworm vaccine.
- Cold
Weather Safety Tips
Pet owners should be
reminded of cold weather-related concerns. The ASPCA has issued the
following guidelines for winter pet safety:
- Cats should be kept indoors.
- Dogs shouldn't be let off their leashes in snow or ice,
especially during a snow storm, because they can easily become lost.
- Because
antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats, accidental spills
should be cleaned up immediately.
- Dogs and cats
should never be left alone in a car during cold weather.
- Puppies
do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs.
- Ice
melt products may contain ingredients that can be very irritating to
the skin and gastrointestinal tract.
- Companion
animals should have a warm, draft-free place to sleep.
- Some
dogs may be sensitive to the cold because of their age, illness, or
breed.
- Car Maker Goes to the Dogs
Honda Motor Company's new dog-friendly vehicle is sure to make tails
wag with joy- if it ever becomes commercially available. The five-door
W.O.W. car -- a concept vehicle- has removable, washable flooring and
wide sliding doors. The glove compartment has been turned into a crate
to safely transport small dogs. A bigger crate pops up from the floor,
near the back seat. The four-cylinder car also comes equipped with
a special seat belt for larger pets. The Japanese automaker currently has no plans to sell the W.O.W., which stands for Wonderful Open-hearted Wagon. This isn't the first pet-friendly vehicle designed by Honda. In
2003 the Vamos van began selling in Japan, where about one fifth of
households own dogs. However, don't expect to see these innovative cars
in the U.S.A anytime soon. Carmakers withhold certain models from the
U.S. market, assuming that American consumers will laugh at their
innovation or scoff at their sense of design. So, the W.O.W may be one
of the many cars that the rest of the world loves, but you can't drive
here in the States.
 
 USDA- Licensed Pet Theft Ring Leader Pleads
Guilty
C. Baird, the nation's
largest United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-licensed Class
"B" animal dealer and pet theft ring leader, pled guilty to felony
charges of conspiracy to launder money in an operation in which dogs and
cats were sold to research laboratories.
The Bairds consented to criminal forfeiture of $200,000 and about 700
acres of land, including their home and former dog and cat kennels in
Sharp County, AK. They also agreed to pay about $42,400 in partial
reimbursement of investigative costs incurred by the USDA.
- CURIOSITY
"Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it sure has earned a
lot of people graduate degrees."
- Robyn Irving --
" Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the
things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. Sail away from
the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream.
Discover."
- Mark Twain --
- Check Medications for Expiration Dates!
 The
Society for Veterinary Hospital Pharmacists has issued a warning:
Dosing pets with date-expired prescription drugs can be hazardous to
their health. According to SVHP president Starr Miller, outdated
tetracycline can give cats "black, hairy tongue" while expired
antibiotics can cause gastrointestinal problems. A national survey
found only 31 percent of Americans check expiration dates on their own
prescription medications, Miller says, and the situation could be even
worse for pet pills.
- The
Difference Between Dogs and Toddlers
| Dog |
Toddler |
| Can
fetch on command |
Can
maybe pick up one toy after repeated requests |
| Will eat anything --
with pleasure |
Will
eat only eggs -- with ketchup |
| Jumps on you with excitement
when you get home |
Jumps
on you with excitement when you get home -- and says, "I wuv you!" |
- DogTown USA
Dog Fancy magazine’s winners for the dog-friendliest cities are each referred to as "DogTown USA". Nominated cities are rated on a number of
factors including number of dog friendly restaurants & cafes; dog
activities; dog parks; percentage of dogs spayed/neutered; public
education; number of veterinarians, specialists and behaviorists; and
number of shelter animals.
DogTown USA 2009 Winners
Best Big City: San Diego, Calif.
Best Mid-Sized City: Huntington Beach, Calif.
Best Small Town: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Calif.
- Floss Your
Way to Heart Health
 According
to two studies appearing in the Journal of Periodontology,
researchers have found evidence that the amount of bacteria in
subgingival plaque may contribute to a person's risk of heart attack.
These findings substantiate what has long been assumed: Oral
inflammation allows bacteria from the mouth to access the bloodstream
and increases the possibility of organ infection.
- A Dog's Plea
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend,
for no heart
in all the world is more grateful
for kindness than mine.
Do not break my spirit with a stick,
for though I might lick
your hand between blows,
your patience and understanding will
more quickly teach
me the things you would have me learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest
music,
as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail
when your footstep falls upon my waiting ears.
Please take me
inside when it's cold and wet,
for I am a domesticated animal
no longer accustomed to bitter elements.
I ask no greater
glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water,
for I cannot
tell you when I suffer thirst.
Feed me clean food that I may
stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding,
to walk by your
side
and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my
life,
should your life be in danger.
And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health,
hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going,
I am not having fun.
Please see that my trusting life is
taken gently.
I shall leave this earth knowing with the last
breath I draw
that my fate was always safest in your hands.
-Anonymous-
- The Ultimate
Buddy System
 A
recent study has found that when pets and people team up as diet
partners, they're more successful at losing weight and keeping it off.
The 12 month study was conducted by Northwestern Memorial
Hospital in Chicago and Hill's Pet Nutrition. "Dogs provide owners with
companionship, social support, and motivation to stick with the diet
and exercise program until the pounds came off and stayed off," says
Dr. Kushner, M.D.
Overall, people lost an average of 5% of
their body weight while dogs lost an average of 15% of their body
weight.
Obesity is one of the most significant
national problems that veterinarians encounter and it contributes to a
shortened life span, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoarthritis.
Breeds with a tendency to gain weight include: Labrador Retrievers,
Rottweilers, Cairn Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Shetland
Sheepdogs, Basset Hounds, and Beagles.
- Raw Diets Spark Concern
 In recent years, feeding dogs raw meat has
become increasingly popular. The trend, however, has sparked health
concerns, because of the risk of foodborne illnesses in pets as well as
in the public health risks of zoonotic infections. Now, a new study
that identifies potentially harmful bacteria in 21 commercial raw meat
diets bolsters concerns.
Proponents of raw meat
diets say it improves dogs' performance, coat, body odor, teeth, and
breath. While high-performance dogs such as racing Greyhounds and sled
dogs, have been fed raw meat diets for years, the trend to feed raw
meat to companion animals is new.
Dr.
Strohmeyer, of the Animal Population Health Institute at Colorado State
University, tested 21 commercially available raw meat diets, two dry
dog foods, and two commercially canned dog foods. The researchers found
that 99 percent of the raw meat samples were contaminated with aerobic
bacteria, and 79 percent had gram negative, probably enteric,
contamination.
"There is a greater apparent risk
to animals and humans from feeding a raw meat diet," Dr. Strohmeyer
commented. " I really do not think that there is any advice we, as
veterinarians, can give to improve safety. I think that it would be a
disservice for a veterinarian to give any recommendation for the safety
of dogs and their owners (except to not feed raw meat to pets).
Bacteria are not the only health concern, there are also parasites and
protozoal organisms that can be transmitted in raw meat, even meat
labeled fit for human consumption."
- Pet Trust Provisions
If you died unexpectedly, what would happen to your beloved four-legged
companion? The American Veterinary Medical Association says more than
58 million households have at least one animal companion and many pets
are abandoned or euthanized after their owner dies, because no one
planned for their ongoing welfare.
Making
financial arrangements for your pet in your will isn't always easy;
non-pet loving relatives often challenge bequests. And pet trusts,
which provide money and name a caretaker, are legal in only about half
the states. However, more and more
courts are viewing pets as companions rather than property. Therefore
including your pet in your will, or setting up a trust, is definitely a
good idea.
Here are some pointers:
- Require two independent veterinarians to verify a terminal
illness before a pet is allowed to be euthanized.
- Specify
who will take care of the pet if the designated trustee is unavailable
or refuses the duty.
- Decide what care
should be extended before the pet is euthanized. For example, if a cat
becomes diabetic, should insulin treatment be administered, or should
the pet be put down?
- Determine what
should happen to the trust when the pet dies. Will the money from the
pet trust go back to the client's estate, or will it be donated to a
charitable fund?
- Consider compensation
for the person with whom the pet will board.
- Name
the veterinarian or clinic where the pet should be treated, and provide
alternatives if that hospital closes.
- Consider
limiting the benefits of the trust to only the pets that are alive when
the client is incapacitated (in other words, don't cover the pet's
descendants).
- Link Between Renal
Disease, Hypertension and Blindness in Felines
Cornell University reports that feline hypertension often follows renal
disease (as well as hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, certain
cancers, or anemia) and may cause hypertensive retinopathy, disruption
of pigmented retinal epithelium, subretinal edema, retinal detachment,
and hemorrhaging.
The bottom line is this: Have
the blood pressure of older cats checked. It is more complicated (and
costly) than the method used in humans. But prevention beats vision
loss in an otherwise healthy cat.
- Maximize Your Vet Visit
As your pets' health advocate, you need to make the most of
the time spent in the veterinarian's clinic.
Here's how:
Make a list of questions you want to ask. Allow space between questions in order to jot down the answers.
If you keep a journal of your pet's
behavior, bring it along so you won't forget anything that can help your veterinarian
diagnose the problem, especially if your pet suffers from a chronic
problem.
If the veterinarian explains something,
write it down. Often, clients get home only to realize that they have
forgotten some of the main points.
Have the
primary caregiver accompany your pet to the vet. Someone else may not
have a clue about the pet's signs or behavior.
If
you have limitations that might affect your ability to carry out your
pet's treatment regimen tell us.
Not everyone is comfortable giving
pills or is able to medicate their pet 2-3 times daily. Ask your veterinarian for
alternatives.
- Arthritis
in Cats
 While
arthritis is widely recognized in dogs, it is less recognized in cats.
However, a recent evaluation of radiographs of geriatric cats show that
cats are more frequently affected than one might suppose.
Of the 100 cats, 90 had radiographic evidence of degenerative joint
disease (DJD), or arthritis, yet the medical records of only four cats
mentioned arthritis or DJD.
One of the reasons
cats are less likely to be diagnosed with arthritis than dogs is that
they show pain in less obvious ways. Your cat might have arthritis if
he/she sounds very loud jumping off furniture, changes his/her sleeping
position, or no longer visits his/her favorite high places.
If you think your cat might have arthritis, please give your veterinarian a
call.
- Why Kittens Shun Candy
 A
defect in a gene that codes for part of the mammalian sweet taste
receptor could account for cats' indifference to sweet things. The
defect has been documented in cheetahs, tigers, and domestic cats.
This study was conducted by scientists from the Monell
Chemical Senses Center in collaboration with the Waltham Centre for Pet
Nutrition.
- Stay Cool During the Dog Days of Summer
Many dogs are less heat tolerant than humans. They don't have many
sweat glands and must pant to lower their body temperature -- not
nature's most efficient cooling mechanism. Dogs with heavy double coats
or short, flat faces suffer even more when the temperature rises. If
your dog's breed originates from a cool climate (Samoyeds, Siberian
Huskies, or St. Bernards, for example) or has a short nose (such as
Bulldogs, Pugs, or Pekingese), take special care to keep your dog from
overheating. Of course, any dog can suffer the effects of heat, sun and
humidity, and any dog can benefit from good grooming to stay healthy,
comfortable, and yes, good-looking, all summer long.
PUT DOWN THE
CLIPPERS AND PICK UP THE COMB
You probably think
that shaggy fur coat is just miserable in the heat. But dogs have these
coats for a reason. Not only do they keep dogs warm in winter and
protected from the elements, they also insulate from the heat and sun.
Coats also help to regulate your dog's internal temperature, shielding
him from heat. A good, thorough brushing and combing all the way down
to the skin from head to toe will keep your dog's coat in great
condition all summer long.
BATH
TIME
Regular summer baths are the best way to keep
your dog odor-free, comfortable, and beautiful. A tangled, dirty coat
won't protect your dog from sun and heat as well as a shiny coat with
good air circulation. Depending on your dog and your yard, consider
moving your bath time outdoors. A garden hose provides the perfect
equipment for bathing your dog, and as that wet coat dries in the sun,
the evaporation will help to keep your dog cool.
THE
ITCHY AND SCRATCHY SHOW
Pest control is integral to
good grooming, and should be a regular part of your summer routine. The
first step to effective pest control is to keep your dog clean. Also
consider an oral or topical treatment which kills or repels fleas. If
you live in a woodsy area (or have seen ticks in the past), make sure
your pet is protected from ticks. And don't forget about heartworm
medication all year round!
WITH
AN SPF OF K-9
Part of good grooming is skin
protection, and in summer your dog's skin -- especially in
smooth-coated and fair-skinned dogs -- is at risk for sunburn and skin
cancer, just like us. Look for sunscreen designed just for dogs and
apply it to exposed areas including noses, ears, and bellies. A light-colored
T-shirt can go a long way toward protecting skin on sparsely coated
dogs.
 Dog Law in Italy
Under a new city council law, dog owners in Turin, Italy, can face
fines up to $650 a day if they fail to walk their pets at least three
times a day. What's more, residents will be banned from dyeing their
pets' fur or performing "any form of animal mutilation" for aesthetic motives.
Said the city's daily paper, La Stampa, "In Turin it will be illegal to
turn one's dog into a ridiculous fluffy toy."
 Heartworm Guidelines
The American Heartworm Society (AHS) has released its completed
guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention, and management of heartworm
infection in dogs and cats:
- Annual testing is necessary (there have been reports of
positive heartworm cases while on preventatives)
- Additional
testing when switching preventatives is critical
- Year-round
prevention is necessary even in northern climates
A complete list of the guidelines is available at www.heartwormsociety.org
- Rattlesnake Vaccine
Just
as you vaccinate your dog against disease, you can now vaccinate her
against the effects of a snakebite. The vaccine was developed by Red Rock
Biologics after a staff veterinarian's cat was bitten in 2002. Both
dogs and cats can receive the new vaccine.
Dogs
get two injections the first year and then a booster each year
afterward. Side effects include mild, temporary vomiting, lethargy, and
diarrhea.
About 90 percent of bitten dogs
suffer attacks on their noses, a testament to a dog's olfactory
curiosity. If a snake bites your dog seek immediate professional care
rather than trying home remedies.
- Human-Animal Bond
A
national survey conducted by Hartz states that in three out of four
pet-owning homes animals are considered family. The nationwide survey tallied 1,518 owners.
Almost half of those surveyed say their pet sleeps with them. Sixteen
percent of women and 6 percent of men say they would break up with a
significant other if their pet did not like them.
Thirty-one percent of women
and fifteen percent of men surveyed spend more time with their pet than their spouse/significant other.
- Dog Gene
Discovery to Aid Humans
An international research team has identified a gene associated with canine epilepsy that may lead to help for humans according to the journal Science. The type of human epilepsy that may benefit from the research is Lafora disease. It usually strikes teenagers, who experience rapid neurological deterioration leading to dementia and death.
The team, funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, studied Miniature Wirehaired Dachshunds in the United Kingdom because they noted that 5 percent of the breed has myoclonic epilepsy, which causes dogs to jerk as if startled. The breed appears to inherit the illness.
The researchers found a gene mutation in affected dogs that they link to Lafora disease, a more severe form of myoclonic epilepsy. The mutation prevents the manufacture of a protein that plays a role in cleaning up other proteins no longer needed by brain cells. Now that they've isolated the gene, researchers can begin work on treating and diminishing Lafora disease in humans. In dogs, elimination of this type of epilepsy depends on selective breeding.
- Labrador Fact
Labrador Retriever dogs are known for their tendency to put on extra
weight. Left untreated, obesity can lead to serious health problems.
- Crazy
About Your Pet?
26% of dog owners say they call
home and talk to their pets on the phone while they are out of town.
- For
a Sneeze-Free Future Get a Pet
Childhood allergies are on the rise, but
research suggests raising children in a house with pets may be a good
way to keep kids healthy. In a study following 700 children from birth
to age six or seven, allergist Dennis Ownby, of the Medical College of
Georgia, found that those who had been exposed to two or more household
cats or dogs since birth were less likely to react to allergens than
those born into animal-free homes.
Early exposure
to the bacteria carried on pets may encourage the proper functioning of
the immune system.
Pets are not a solution for all kids. If
the child has already developed a sensitivity, introducing a dog or cat
into the home will likely make it worse.
- To Interfere or Not To Interfere?
Have
you ever let your dog interact with another? If so, you've probably
observed some behavior that made you worry. Below is a list of
acceptable and non-acceptable behaviors:
Behavior
you can allow:
- One dog postures with head and tail high; the other takes a
lower stance and allows that dog to sniff him.
- Both
dogs begin with high postures, then one play-bows or flops onto the
ground, wagging and/or licking the other dog's face.
- Dogs
tussle noisily, with barking and the occasional growl or nip, but
neither has a history of bloodshed during scuffles.
Intervene if:
- Both dogs take a high posture,
locking eyes, and neither looks away or lowers his posture.
- Hard
staring escalates to snarling and growling with neither dog backing
down.
- One dog yields, but the other continues
pressuring him, standing over him, growling, and crowding his space.
- Dogs
tussle silently, except for breathing sounds (silent fights indicate
more serious aggression than noisy arguments)
- One
dog stops fighting, but the other continues.
- You
see blood.
- Chihuahua Fact
 The average life expectancy of the Chihuahua is
13 years and it is not uncommon for them to live 15 years. Heart
disorders are more frequent in the Chihuahua than other breeds. This
sensitivity increases with age.
- Persian Cats
Persian
cats are most famous for their beautiful coats and have approximately
230 miles of hair (if each strand is placed end to end).
- Got
Garlic?
Garlic
is widely touted as a safe and a natural method for ridding dogs of
fleas, but there is no scientific research to confirm that it is
effective against flea infestations.
There is
good evidence, however, that garlic is toxic to dogs, causing damage to
red blood cells (RBC's). This results in too few RBC's, making the blood
unable to carry a sufficient amount of oxygen to the body's cells.
Like any toxic substance, the dose makes the poison; small
amounts of garlic ingested on an infrequent basis may not be harmful,
but regular daily doses are likely to be.
- ID Chips Migrate from Pets to People
In October 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration approved VeriChip microchips for medical use in humans.
The chips record such personal information as name, blood type, medical
records, and more, giving emergency-room personnel critical information
about unconscious or non-responsive patients.
In
other countries, children are being chipped to speed recovery if
they're abducted. Implanting a microchip takes five minutes and costs
$200, compared to the $50 cost to microchip a pet.
- The Buzz About Heartworm
According
to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), 27 million dogs are in danger
of contracting heartworm because they aren't currently medicated with a
heartworm preventative.
In fact, fewer pets are
on a preventative medication now than in the past. Only 55% of dogs in
the United States are on a heartworm preventative, down from 66% in
1998.
A study conducted by AHS and Merial found
that at least 250,000 dogs and cats tested positive for heartworm
infection nationwide.
- What's Next -- Berlitz for Rats?
A
group of 16 rats was able to distinguish between spoken languages.
Researchers trained rats to push a lever when presented with a short
sentence in either Dutch or Japanese. The rats consistently pressed the
lever only when presented with "their" language. They were even able to
recognize the language when a different sentence was used. Humans,
tamarin monkeys, and rats are the three mammalian species in which this
ability has been documented.
- Survivor
Doctors at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin didn't give up on a 15-year-old rabies infected girl. Her prognosis was terrible -- only five people in the world have survived rabies after exhibiting signs, but all of them had been at earlier stages and had received the vaccine. The teenager, who has become the sixth person known to survive rabies, was released from the hospital January 1, 2005. Jeanna Giese is the first person known to survive rabies without a vaccination. She is expected to regain normal functioning after rehabilitation. According to the CDC someone in the world dies from rabies every 15 minutes.
- Deposits
at the DNA Bank
United
Kingdom veterinary schools and nonprofit organization Animal Health
Trust are collaborating to compile an animal DNA archive. The archive
of donated samples will allow researchers to investigate factors --
genetic and environmental -- that predispose an animal to certain
diseases. The animals' DNA will also aid in human genetic research, as
many genes are common to both people and mammals. Researchers hope to
identify the causes of genetic conditions in animals and develop new
treatments, possibly eradicating certain diseases altogether.
- Cat
Trivia
- A cat has 32 muscles in each ear.
- Cats
purr at about 26 cycles per second, the same frequency as an idling
diesel engine.
- A cat sees about six
times better than a human at night because of the tapetum lucidum, a
layer of extra reflective cells.
- In
1987 cats overtook dogs as the #1 pet in America.
- Adult
cats with no health problems are in deep sleep 15% of their lives. They
are in light sleep 50% of the time.
- Dog Property
Rules
- If I like it, it's mine!
- If it's in my mouth, it's mine!
- If I can take it away from you, it's mine!
- If it's mine, it must never appear to be yours in any way!
- If I'm chewing something up, all the pieces are mine!
- If it looks like mine, it's mine!
- If I saw it first, it's mine!
- If you are playing with something and you put it down, it automatically becomes mine!
- If it's broken, it's yours!
- Pet E-cards
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