How to Help Stop the Winter Itch!!

Winter weather is tough on your skin and hair, so don’t forget its the same for your pup, so he or she needs the same kind of protection.

If your dog is already itching, you need to break him or her from that habit because it can cause open sores and possible infections. A great daily supplement for this, and for all dogs, is Omega 3- it will help revitalize your dog’s skin and coat and keep it healthy. Of course always talk to your vet first.

I get compliments on my dog’s coat a lot, and I always say it’s the Omega 3 supplements and of course healthy dog food too!

What to Feed Your Dog???

That old saying YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT, applies to your pets too!

Do NOT feed your dog chocolate cake please! 🙂

Maybe you are getting a new dog and are wondering what to feed him or her, maybe your dog has been on the same food for years, or maybe you are thinking of switching your dog’s food.

If any of these sound like you, then read on!

Many people do not know that pet food packaging contains ingredients just like human food does.  What you see on that label is the key to knowing whether that food is appropriate for your pet.  Make note, that the higher the ingredient is on the list, the more it makes up that food.  Most of your pet’s food will be composed of the first few ingreidents, which is important to know in case you see any undesireable ingredients.

Here are some ingredients to avoid:

(1) By-products & by-product meals:  These are unfit for human consumption so don’t feed them to your dog. They are created from waste parts in the butchering process.  Instead look for dog food that lists actual meat as an ingredient.  And note that “chicken meal” is not the same terrible ingredient as “chicken by-product meal.”

(2) Anything artificial (like colors and flavors, such as FD&C Red #40): Many pet foods use artificial colors and flavors.  These synthetic additives are unnecessary, especially since color has little importance for your dog.

(3) Fillers (such as soybean meal and flour, wheat middlings, wheat gluten and corn meal gluten): Fillers have little to no nutritional value and are only added to pet food to increase volume or weight.  Almost all dog food is sold by weight, so bulking up food with inexpensive ingredients can save companies a lot of money.  The issue is that your pet gets absolutely nothing from these ingredients, and in most cases their body can’t even break them down.

(4) Sugar or sweeteners (such as cane sugar, or HFCS):  Just because your dog LOVES the food, doesn’t mean it’s healthy!  We all know that what tastes good isn’t always what is good for us.

Here’s a great website to check out the food you are feeding your dog:  http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/

What to feed your cat is next week!

‘TIS THE SEASON OF TICKS!

SIGNS OF A TICK BITE

• Scratching, licking or chewing at the bite.

• Redness or rash starting at the bite location.

• Voice change to a croaky husky bark.

• Paralysis around the bite site, which may progress to other parts of the body.

• Disease symptoms, including muscle aches, stiffness, weakness, fever and swollen lymph nodes.

ACTIONS FOR SURVIVAL

• Using latex gloves, firmly hold the body as close to the head with your fingers or tweezers.  Then with firm gentle pressure, slowly pull the tick out.  Do not twist.  If all the parts of the tick are not removed, seek

veterinarian help.

• Clean the area with antibacterial soap.

• Put a dab of antibacterial ointment over the break in the skin.

• Save the tick in a jar or small plastic bag and put the date on it.

Keep the tick for at least 2 weeks so the tick can be tested is any signs present themselves in you or your pets during that time.

• Contact your vet for further assistance, if necessary.

• Do not use heat to try and get the tick out. You may burn yourself and your pet!

VETERINARY CARE

• Antibiotics and basic wound care are necessary.

• Vet care is necessary if any part of the tick is not fully removed.

• Vet care is also necessary if any lack of body function or limb function is observed after finding a tick.

• If you bring the tick in, your vet may have the body analyzed or tested.

TOP 5 TOXINS TO YOUR PET IN 2010

I saw an article about the Top 5 Toxins to Your Pet in 2010, and I thought it was important to share!

Some people tend to think that cats are not as fast to eat things they shouldn’t, but that is entirely untrue.  About 9% of the calls to the Animal Poison Control helpline are about cats!  So whether you have a dog, cat or another pet, this is a must read!

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list.  Just a list of the top 5 reasons people called Animal Poison Control in 2010.

1. Human and Veterinary Medications – During 2010, about 40 percent of feline cases at Pet Poison Helpline involved cats that improperly ingested human or veterinary drugs. Cats have difficulty metabolizing certain drugs, especially as compared to dogs and humans. Common drugs such as  NSAIDS are some of the most deadly to cats. When ingested, NSAIDS can result in severe kidney failure and stomach ulcers. Likewise, one acetaminophen tablet can be fatal to a cat, as it results in damage to red blood cells. Untreated, it can cause severe anemia, difficulty breathing, a swollen face, liver failure and death. Cats also seem to like the taste of certain antidepressants, which seem to contain an attractive smell or flavor in the coating. With any accidental medication ingestion, immediate veterinary care is imperative.

True Story: Last weekend, a friend of mine’s mother, left her daily pills in a plastic cup on the counter in the bathroom.  She left the room and when she returned, the pills were spilled over on the floor.  She noticed 2 pills missing, one being a blood pressure pill.  Immediately she told my friend, and they calmly surveyed the situation.  First, they thoroughly searched on the floor for the pills; however, they were nowhere to be found.  My friend has never seen her cat eat a pill, and never thought he would!  She then took one of the blood pressure pills and put it up to her cat’s nose to see if he showed any interest in it.  Immediately, he tried to eat it!  Without hesitation, she called her veterinarian, to find out the right protocol.  I’m very happy to say that the cat is fine, and was not affected by the ingestion of the pill, but this is a lesson we should all learn from!

2. Plants – Poisonous plants were the second most common cat toxin in 2010,. True lilies, including the Tiger, Day, Asiatic, Easter and Japanese Show lilies, are among the most deadly and cause kidney failure in cats. Because these flowers are fragrant, inexpensive and long-lasting, florists often include them in arrangements. Small ingestions of two or three petals or leaves – even the pollen – can result in severe, potentially irreversible kidney failure. Immediate veterinary care is imperative. Despite their name, other plants such as the Peace, Peruvian and Calla lily are not true lilies and do not cause kidney failure. Instead, these plants contain insoluble oxalate crystals that can cause minor symptoms, such as irritation in the mouth, tongue, pharynx and esophagus.

3. Insecticides –Exposure to household insecticides such as lawn and garden products, sprays, powders, or granules often occurs when a cat walks through a treated area; however, serious poisoning is rare. More concerning is exposure to concentrated topical flea and tick medications meant for dogs. Dog-specific insecticides containing pyrethrins or pyrethroids are highly toxic to cats. Poisoning occurs when pet owners apply such products directly to cats or cats lick these medications off dogs that live with them. Severe drooling, tremors and life-threatening seizures can occur. Always read labels carefully before using any kind of insecticide and ask your veterinarian about appropriate topical flea and tick medications for your cat.

4. Household Cleaners –Many cat owners don’t realize that some common household cleaners like kitchen and bath surface cleaners, carpet cleaners and toilet bowl cleaners can be toxic to cats. Symptoms can include profuse drooling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and even organ damage. After cleaning your home, make sure all excess liquid or residue is wiped up or eliminated, and stow the products out of your cat’s reach as soon as possible. Only allow your cat back into the cleaned areas after the products have completely dried.

5. Other Toxins – The remainder of feline-related calls during 2010 involved less obvious toxins, such as glow sticks and liquid potpourri. Glow sticks and jewelry contain a very bitter tasting liquid called dibutyl phthalate. While rarely deadly, just one bite into these items can cause your cat to drool profusely. Most of these exposures can be managed at home. Offer (but do not force) your cat chicken broth or canned tuna (in water, not oil) to help to remove the bitter taste from the mouth. Remove the glow sticks and clean up any remaining liquid to prevent re-exposure to cats, who may continue to groom it off their fur. A bath may be in order to remove any “glowing” liquid from his or her skin. If you see signs of redness to the eyes, squinting, continued drooling, or not eating, a trip to the veterinarian may be necessary.

Pet Poison Helpline – 1-800-213-6680

Full Article:  http://click.petplace.com/?ju=fe24157174600c797c1c77&ls=fdec12757267007a70117975&m=feff1273766004&l=fe9616737361067c73&s=fe1d12787c6004747c1071&jb=ffcf14&t=

DOG TIPS FOR THE WINTER SEASON

1)    Does your dog need outdoor gear?

Let’s face it, dogs either love winter or they don’t. Many of the big dogs with thick coats are pretty prepared when prancing in the snow. You just have to keep a watchful eye on their feet and their outdoor habits.

If your dog is smaller with shorter hair, or older, a soft dog sweater and booties might be the required winter wear for their ultimate enjoyment.  The sweater will keep him warm during his daily walks, and the booties will prevent cuts on his paw pads, create traction for ice, and also prohibit chemicals such as antifreeze, salt and other de-icers from getting on his paws.

Remember, it might take time and some bribing to get the booties on, but have patience!

2)    Do you have a glowing leash?

Glowing dog leashes, dog vests and flashing lights on both owner and pet are a great buy, and have become very popular with dog owners! They are wonderful during both the darkness of early morning and evening walks.

3)    Watch out for puddles!

Don’t let your pet drink from puddles in the winter; they could easily be filled with toxic salts and chemicals, which are harmful if digested.

4)    Watch out for frostbite!

Be watchful of frostbite in the most common areas, such as the tips of the ears and tail. If you suspect your pet suffers from it, get in touch with a veterinarian right away.

5)    Stay away from lakes.

Keep your pet away from frozen lakes. Keeping them on leash would ensure this. I can personally attest to this.  When I was younger, I had a lab mix, Amber, that ran onto the frozen lake (Brady’s Pond, Staten Island) in our backyard to chase some ducks.  The lake was not fully frozen yet, so she fell threw the ice right in the center of the lake. Thank goodness for my father and uncle because they saved Amber’s life!  They took our aluminum boat and chopped there way slowly to her.  Even though the outcome was miraculous, the process of saving my dog was grueling and very dangerous, so watch your pups!

6)    When you get back home from being outside:

If your dog does not have booties, be sure to have an old wet, warm towel to remove the residue of mud, ice, and street chemicals picked up from the walk. Use a dry towel to then dry your pet’s paws, legs and belly. Give close attention to removing ice caught between the paw pads. If you don’t wash this dirt from your pet’s paws, the dog will be licking it off two minutes after you get in the door.

It’s going to be a cold winter, so follow these tips and keep your pets safe!

IS YOUR PET OVERWEIGHT?

A study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention indicated that 45 % of dogs and 58 % of cats in the U.S. are overweight. How to Determine if Your Pet is Obese:

1. Run your fingertips against the direction of the animal’s coat without applying pressure. If you can feel his ribs, your pet may be underweight. If you can’t feel your pet’s ribs:
2. Run your fingertips in the direction of the coat, this time applying light pressure. If you can feel the ribs easily, your animal is at a healthy weight. If there is a layer of fat covering the animal’s ribs, this may be an indication that the dog or cat is obese.

Pets need to get regular exercise to maintain proper weight.

An overweight pet is not a healthy pet. Owners need to recognize that they are putting their pet’s health at risk by allowing that extra weight.

Obesity commonly leads to diabetes, heart problems, and arthritis. An overweight pet does not age well, either. Overweight pets are more prone to hip dysplasia, back and joint pain, and endocrine diseases. Extra weight also decreases a veterinarian’s ability to manage these conditions both medically and surgically. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight can literally add years to her life.

Why are more pets overweight? The answer is the same for pets as well as people: too many calories and not enough exercise.

So stop feeding your pet extra treats just because he or she is begging you, and give your pet the gift of exercise this Holiday Season!! 20% off your first month of dog walks! Call today (347-223-5116) for particulars and mention Code B-20-  this promotion expires 1/18/11.

We would never forget about your precious kitty! If your cat seems overweight and/or bored and needs exercise, we can come do daily or weekly pet visits while you are at work! 20% off first month of regular pet visits as well, expiration date 1/18/11.

How to Prevent Dog Bites

Your dog is part of your family, but do not forget that your dog is still an animal, and needs to be treated a certain way.  If you are a dog owner with children please follow these rules:

(1) Supervise your kids when the dog is around.  If a toddler is interacting with your dog, you should have your hands on the dog too.  Even if your dog has NEVER bitten before, you do not want to take a chance.

(2)  Make sure you train your dog.  You can get an in-home trainer, like Bark Busters, or you can bring your dog to obedience classes.  Never act aggressive towards the dog when he is misbehaving, because then you are just teaching your dog to be aggressive.  Make sure you involve your whole family in the training of the dog.

(3) Spay or neuter your dog.  Neutered pets are calmer, healthier and less likely to be aggressive.

(4) Condition your dog for the world.  Give your puppy/dog lots of new positive experiences.

Even though you see a cute dog, this doesn’t mean you should run right up to it and pet it.  Safety first!

If you are a parent, please go over these rules with your children regarding dogs.

(1)  Teach your kids to not hug and kiss your dog on the face.  This has been some causes of bites to the face.  Have your children scratch the dog on the chest or side of the neck.

(2)  If you want to let your children pet strange dogs, first ask the owner, then let the dog smell you.  If the dog shows no sign of affection, then you can pet the dog on his chest or side of the neck.  Never pet a strange dog on the top of the head, because this can be a threatening jesture toward the dog.

(3)  Never tease a dog, especially when he is eating, sleeping or protecting something, like his toys.

(4)  If a dog is running towards you or threatening you, stand completely still, do not run!  If you stand still, the dog will no longer be interested in you, but if you run, the dog will look at you as prey.  This works for strange dogs or your family dog that is getting too aggressive or frisky.

If you have any questions, or need a recommendation for a trainer, don’t hesitate to call us at 347-223-5116.

Canine Influenza – what do you need to know???

WHAT IS IT??  Canine influenza is an infectious disease which only affects dogs, and is caused by a flu virus.  A strain known as H3N8 is able to cause respiratory illness in dogs.  It is highly contagious.  Virtually, every dog exposed to the illness will become infected.  While 100% of dogs are susceptible to canine influenza, only 80% if infected dogs will actually show signs of infection.  Dogs that do not show signs of infection can still spread the virus; therefore, it is impossible to know what dogs to keep your dog away from.  Since 2003, there have been numerous reports of influenza outbreaks in boarding facilities, kennels, shelters and veterinary clinics.  These outbreaks can be started from just one sick dog!

HOW SERIOUS IS IT??  It is a mild disease, but can become serious in some dogs.  In about 20% of the cases, severe symptoms can occur like fever and pneumonia.  Some dogs have even died from canine influenza.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR??  Most common sign is a cough, that is similar to kennel cough in some cases (dry cough) but other dogs can have productive coughs, so it is hard to diagnose.  Other signs can include fever, discharge, lack of energy, and  loss of appetite.

HOW TO PROTECT MY DOG??  You can lower your dogs chance of infection by keeping your dog away from kennels, doggie day care facilities, shelters, and busy waiting rooms at veterinarian offices.  Keep your dog in good general health.  If you are going away or need daily exercise for your dog, look for a fully insured in-home pet sitting company instead of a facility.  This will lower your dogs exposure to possible infectious dogs.  According to Dr. Michael Moyer, director of shelter animal medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, “The point of exposure is indeed from group housing situations like dog parks, dog daycare, shelters, grooming shops, and veterinary hospitals.”  Lastly, ask your vet if your dog is a good candidate for the Canine Influenza Vaccine.