Flower Essences and How They Work for Animals
Is your dog experiencing some emotional distress? Shaking or hiding during thunderstorms, barking at the UPS man, experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder? A fear of the unknown? Suddenly becoming aggressive or territorial? Perhaps it is time to investigate and learn about how Flower Essences can assist your animal's emotional challenge.
Although flowers and plants with medicinal properties have been around for thousands of years and used extensively by indigenous tribes, modern day essences began their popular rise in the late 1800's through the work and medical research of Dr. Edward Bach in England.
Dr. Bach gave up practicing traditional medicine when he began observing that many of his patients were not making a full recovery with traditional medicines. He left his practice in the city and moved to the English countryside, where he began working in his gardens and tuning into to what he later termed the "signature properties of the flowers."
Following his hunches, Dr. Bach began prescribing some of the 38 flower essence remedies he named to his patients who he identified as experiencing emotional traumas or distress through an extensive questionnaire he had developed. Lo and behold, Dr. Bach began noticing major changes in his patients and roots causes of issues simply disappearing. And thus the Bach Flower Remedy line was born.
Today the Bach line is still going strong and dozens of Flower Essence producers are making excellent remedies.
The essences work based on an energetic frequency model for health. Each remedy addresses a specific issue that may be affecting the person or animal and subtly and gently assist by shifting the energy frequency that is imbalanced back into balance.
For instance, Mimulus works wonders for animals with known fears such as: thunderstorms and loud noises. Rock Rose addresses panic and terror issues, while Vine is great for animals exhibiting aggression and Rescue Remedy is excellent for anxious animals or animals experiencing stress or changing situations.
The wonderful thing about the essences is that they are inexpensive (about $16 for a bottle), non- toxic, are so easy to administer (just drop into your animals water) and they really work, often quite quickly (I have seen shifts in animals in as few as 5 minutes).
Flower Essences work wonders for animals (and humans) in distress on many levels. I utilize them extensively in my Animal Wellness and Animal Communication practices as I find them to hit the spot and address the roots cause not just the symptoms.
Alecia Evans is a professional Animal Wellness Consultant. She is an award winning producer and host of the 12 week Grassroots Aspen television series, "The Whole Animal," and a well known lecturer on the topics of Animal Communication and Natural Health and Healing for Animals. She consults with clients the world over, helping their animals get back on the road to health naturally. In addition, Alecia is an Expert Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant who assists animals and their people creating harmonious relationships through new levels of awareness and understanding.
Find out more at: http://dogwalkinsync.com/
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The Sun Conure Parrot - 5 Reasons Why People Love Them
This parrot continues to be one of the most popular choices for pet birds. And while there are many other types of birds competing for adoption, here are 5 reasons it continues to be at the top of the list for adoption.
Colorful---Like their name suggests, they add a vibrant splash of color to a room whether they are sitting still or flying about. They don't start out that way. So if you adopt a young bird, don't be disappointed with the all the green feathers you're likely to see. This is nature's way of helping them survive by allowing them to blend in more easily with the trees.
They eventually turn to a stunning array of vibrant yellows, gold, oranges, and blues. Their mature colors dazzle the eye.
Manageable Size---Most birds at maturity are right around 12 inches long and weigh a whopping 4 ounces.
Easy To Train---Known for their high level of intelligence, they learn quickly and with gently and consistent training many can be taught to do pretty complex tricks. They love and need the attention, and the ground rules for behavior should be laid from the beginning and enforced gently and consistently adhered to by all family members.
Great Personalities---They are fun-loving and very active. However, "playing dead" has given many an owner near heart failure only to discover they are merely enjoying a snooze. They socialize well with humans, and children who know how to handle them. Interaction with children should always be supervised by a knowledgeable adult.
They can sometimes choose a favorite owner, but as long as all members of the family continue to interact, this should not cause a problem. That being said, each bird has its own personality. And what may be usual for most Conures may or may not be the same for the bird you adopt.
Reasonably Priced---Everything is relative, but as exotic birds go, Conures range in price from $250 to $350 when purchased from a reputable breeder. Pet stores are also an option, but having a veterinarian check them over before finalizing the adoption is recommended.
Adopting a rescue bird is another option, but unfortunately many of these birds have behavioral problems of their own or some caused by previous owners. Many times they are older birds and have developed habits that are nearly impossible to change. Acquiring a bird in this way is not recommended for the first time bird owner.
More than not, the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to this parrot. And making them part of the family typically adds a lot of sunshine to life.
Description This parrot continues to be one of the most popular choices for pet bird. And while there are many other types of birds competing for adoption, here are 5 reasons it continues to be at the top of the list for adoption.
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The Difficulties and Rewards of Working in a Pet Store
Working at a pet store is not something that all people are suitable for. While a job at a pet store may fit some people like a glove, it is entirely impossible for others. Those working in a pet store have to be true pet lovers to take care of so many different pets day after day, and have to be strong enough not to burst into tears when their favorite animal is sold. A lot of responsibilities come with the job as well, as they will be responsible for the safety and health of all the pets in the store. If one of them gets sick and is not treated in time, the responsibility falls on those taking care of the pet. Even those employed as simple sales men or women still have to assume responsibility for the pets in their care. Knowledge of products being sold in the shop is also required, as customers will require information on all products available, from simple hamster cages or squeaky toys to a large terrarium for their reptile friend.
Caring for the pets being sold in the store means more than simply feeding them and providing them with water. It also involves playing with them at regular intervals, to keep them happy, as well as cleaning their cages, or fish tanks, in the case of fish. Anyone who has ever cleaned a fish tank before knows that this is quite a lengthy process, especially as it also involves a complete cleaning of the filtration system, and a change of water. So taking care of the pets from the store does take a lot of time, and has to be done regularly, so only true animal lovers will be able to do this time after time.
Those working in pet stores also have to clean the cages of the other animals by removing all waste from them and disinfecting them at specific intervals of time. This is the only way to make sure that germs and other harmful bacteria do not affect the safety of the animals living inside. It is also extremely important to keep sick animals away from the others, as they may transmit the disease and eventually cause all the pets in the store to become infected.
A close relationship with a vet is required, and regular visits from the vet are highly recommended to ensure the well being of the pets being sold. Pet types should never be mixed, as there are germs and diseases that, while harmless to a rat, may cause the death of a lizard. Keeping them close together, even if in different cages, is a certain way of infection, so it should be avoided at all costs. Naturally, keeping hamsters close to predatory animals is also not a good idea, even if they are only young.
There are a lot of people who come to pet stores to sell a great variety of pets, at a very small age, because they do not have room to keep them, or the money to feed them. While this is understandable in some cases, some only do this for a profit, and it should be noted that many types of animals will not be able to properly develop without support from their mother. It is very important for most pets to stay close to their mother until they are at least 2 months old, to properly develop, and they should not be purchased until then.
Working in a pet store offers numerous personal rewards, as there is no better feeling than seeing all the pets cheer up in the morning when they see the sale men and women arrive to work. It can also be difficult, especially for those with limited knowledge of hamster cages, for example, or other similar products such as a terrarium or a rabbit hutch. Customers are sometimes extremely well prepared and know exactly what they want, and not knowing how to answer their questions can lead to problems. However, pet lovers everywhere will find no better position than those offered in a pet store, if they want to remain close to numerous types of animals, all looking for some love and attention.
Leah Williams writes articles for Supapet, a pet store that offers a range of products for different animals. Whether you are looking for hamster cages or dog leads, Supapet have a wide selection to choose from, also catering for lizards and amphibians with their range of terrarium accessories.
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New Years' Resolutions for Pet Owners
Happy New Year! When we think of the first month of a new year, we probably ponder all the resolutions to make for our personal and professional growth. We want to lose weight, eat better, and maybe work toward improving skills to do well at work. If you have a feline or canine companion at home, you may wish to consider adding a few resolutions and include your dog or cat in on your plans for improvement. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1) Commit to daily walks so you both get in your exercise. We like to make excuses for not getting in shape - we have to work, we have to take our kids to their practices, and so on. When the dog needs to go out, at best we may just circle them around the neighborhood, but that's not always a good, healthy walk. Consider broadening your walk circuit with your dog so that he/she gets his exercise, too. With cats, you may not walk them as you would a dog, but it's a good idea to engage in some kind of exercise program with yours to keep him/her and you fit.
2) Groom your pets regularly. Keep an eye on fleas and ticks, and watch those paws and claws, too. A clean and well-groomed pet is a healthy one, and the more attention you give could mean less problems with the veterinarian as far as skin issues are concerned. Taking the time to properly groom your dog or cat also helps you bond with them. Give it a try - you'll enjoy the time spent.
3) Keep regular veterinarian visits. Speaking of the vet, don't sacrifice doctors' visits. Your pet's health is vital, and if you suspect something is wrong and you are not schooled in veterinary medicine it's best to leave any diagnosis to a doctor. Regular check-ups for preventative measures can help keep your dog or cat feeling great.
4) Include your pet. Your dog or cat is part of the family - therefore it makes sense to consider his/her wants and needs when you travel and when emergencies arise.
Make this year the one you and your pets grow in happiness and health. Whether you are a new pet owner or have had a four-legged friend at home for some time, making New Years' resolutions to help you and your pets can start the year off right.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on pet supplies and pet care products.
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Tips For Preventing Giving Your Pet a Stupid Name
I have had dogs and cats all my life. The ones I named by myself have always had unique, interesting names, many being named after characters in mythology or classic literature. The ones I allowed someone else to name have often been something that I really didn't want to be yelling out into the street at night to get them to come home for bed.
Before naming your pet, you have to consider how you will feel calling it in public. The all-time worst pet name I have been saddled with was "Fart", name by an eight year-old boy who considered that to be the all-time greatest joke.
When I go to the dog park, I find an amazing array of animal names. There are dogs named Bob, Charlie, and Angus. These names are fun, and sometimes related to the breed. No one will take offence if you call your dog Bob, not even if their own name is Bob. Be careful with using people's names, though. My little dog "Emma" had to have a name change to "Mia" when my son became serious about a girl named Emma.
There are also the "high society" names of the show dogs and cats, often with "of" somewhere in the phrase. These are, of course, intended to impress judges with the impressive heritage of the animal. The name alone proves that the dog or cat in question deserves "Best of Show".
Most of us do not intend to show or breed our animals. We want a family pet who is just another one of us, except with four legs. If Doug or Susie is a good enough name for one of our children, then there's no reason for the dog or cat's name to be any more imaginative. Although, if Doug or Susie are named after a favourite grandparent, then the same rule may not be applied to the family dog. Grandpa Doug would not be impressed.
Dogs don't have a very good command of language, so you want to make the name short, with a maximum of two syllables. That's about all they can understand. One syllable is preferable. "Butch" is easy for a dog to decipher. As mentioned earlier, you want the name to be something that you can repeat in public. Although your dog may, in fact, be a bitch, it's not advisable to name her that.
Your dog's name defines you to people you meet as much as it identifies your dog. Naming your pet after a favourite book, movie, vacation spot, food, or pastime will give you an identity as well. If you spend a few days with your pet before naming him or her, the animal's own personality might be the clue to their name. The name "Digger" might be just right. The names "Thing One" and "Thing Two" would be perfect for a pair of Hairless Chinese Creasteds. A humourous or ironic name lets people know that you have a sense of humour. A chihuahua named "Killer" is just to elicit grins from anyone who meets it, and you.
Before you tell your child or children that they can choose a name for the family pet, make sure you set out some ground rules. "Fluffy" might not be something that you want to have to repeat for 15 years. A stupid name lasts forever. My son's choice of "Ukulele Aloysius Hucklebuck" was shortened to Yuki, and everyone was happy, including the dog.
When naming a cat, the rules are much easier. Just give it a name that acknowledges its majesty and superior intellect, such as Cleopatra or Shakespeare. Remember, with cats, there isn't the issue of you calling its name over and over in public. It will just ignore you, anyway.
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Arnold's Free Ride
Being a single mom, one of my "Great Ideas" (at the time) was to raise piglets and sell halves. Not only would we make money but we would have yummy bacon and ham in the freezer. Soon we had three adorable pink and white piglets rooting around in a pen. Their names...Hammy Faye Baker, Arnold Snorztenegger, and Pinky-Jo Curly Tail.
At first all went well, they didn't eat much and were very friendly, standing up on their little hind legs to greet us every morning. My "Great Idea" included going to various fruit and vegetable stands to gather older produce and feed them for free. We picked "pig weed" along the sides of the road and went to the Hostess store to buy all the past due cakes and bread to supplement their diet. They chowed down on pigweed and veggies like there was no tomorrow, but they would only sniff suspiciously at the Hostess goodies and fruit. Pigs are extremely smart and have an incredible ability to change food into fat at an extremely rapid rate, and soon they were three obese, waddling, 250 pound porkers.
About this time, Hammy, Arnold, and Pinky-Jo decided that there was more of the world to see than their little pen. After all, that yummy stuff they get every day had to come from somewhere... they did their level best... daily... to get out and find more. I tried hot wire. Hammy Faye would short it out shoveling dirt against it with her snout. We tried wooden boards. Arnold would run at it and throw himself, trotters scrambling wildly, up and over the boards. We tried hog wire. All three would stand up on their hind legs and put their front feet up on the wire, walking slowly forwards until the wire bent enough that they could just clamber over the top. They were three little piggy geniuses.
One day I received a phone call from my neighbor down the road. "Your pigs are out."
The boys and I hitched up the horse trailer and high-tailed it down the road where we found the pigs corralled in a rather large pasture/pen. I was able to back the trailer into a corner. With the door open against the fence on one side, it made a fairly good trap. We attempted to get the pigs into the corner so they could have nowhere to go but into the horse trailer. They ambled unconcernedly up to the trailer when herded, but at the door they stopped and eyed the dark interior suspiciously. Suddenly, Hammy let out a grunting snort and all three scattered like startled deer.
I tried to jump in front of Arnold, but he plowed through my legs at a gallop with me spread face down across his back.
You would think a grown woman riding a half-grown pig would be tiring, but I swear he enjoyed it. All three pigs hurtled around the pasture like little pink racehorses, with me hanging on for dear life. About the third lap around the pasture I lost my grip and fell hard, bouncing like a super-ball across the mucky pasture.
As I lay gasping for breath, Keegan and Garry (my two boys) quietly walked Hammy Faye and Pinky-Jo up to the trailer where they loaded quietly. Arnold refused to get into the trailer. I drove the other two pigs home, and got a bucket of pig feed and a lasso.
Back to the neighbor's I went, Keegan and Garry happily anticipating the fact that Mom was about to do something entertainingly stupid once again. I lassoed Arnold around the neck and found that a combination of pouring little piles of food in front of him and pulling him from pile to pile would get him to follow me. Unfortunately, I lived about a half a mile up the road. At this rate it would take at least a day.
I looked around and spied the neighbor's tractor. It had a large bucket on the front and a blade in the back. Keegan started up the tractor and pulled up next to Arnold. Garry poured the last of the pig feed into the tractor bucket while I pushed and pulled, finally shoving Arnold into it. Keegan lifted the bucket about 2 feet off of the ground while I clambered in along side of Arnold to "steady" him. At first, Arnold wasn't sure he liked this, but as we headed up the driveway and onto the road headed home, he quickly relaxed, even standing with his front feet on the rim of the bucket, ears flapping in the wind like some bizarre Cocker Spaniel.
I can only imagine the picture we made: two young boys driving a tractor with their mother, both legs dangling over the edge of the bucket, hanging onto a lasso tied to a large pig that was showing every indication of enjoying the ride immensely. I won't go on about the looks we received from passing motorists, but Keegan and Garry waved happily at their slack jawed faces as they slowly passed us.
Soon after that, I sold the pigs. I could not butcher them. I have not raised pigs since then... I can't. They have too much personality. Some days when life gets me down, I look back on that period in our lives with Arnold peering happily over the rim of the bucket... and I can't help but laugh.
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The Best Rabbit Food for Health and Nutrition
When you purchase a pet rabbit, you will most definitely want to find the best rabbit food for his overall health. Many people are under the impression that pellets were made specifically for pet rabbits, but actually pellets were made for maximum growth in commercial rabbits.
When we purchase a rabbit for a pet, we consider them as part of our family, and we want to be sure they get the best diet and nutrition possible. That is why you should take the time studying about your pet's individual needs and feed him accordingly.
Rabbits have a very delicate and unique digestive tract, and this should be in the forefront of your mind when choosing their food. If you have your pet spayed or neutered and take good care of his teeth and his diet, he could be part of the family for maybe 12 years or more.
Rabbit's unique digestion
Rabbit's digestion first begins in his mouth. He chops up the food with his strong teeth and then it begins to combine with the rabbit's saliva. The mashed up food from rabbit's mouth then breaks down into a protein due to the amount of it in the animal's saliva.
This mixture then enters into the stomach were it is mixed with stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Then it travels its way down to the small and large intestine. The large intestine then sorts the food by size.
The larger particles drive the smaller fragments of digestible food back in to the cecum. This is a large blind-ended sack that is located near the small intestine. This is when the indigestible products are expelled as poop, and the undigested fragments make it to the anus area and begin a fermentation process, and the other fragments make it down to a process called night feces. Rabbits do eat this type of feces directly from their anus.
The rabbit's cecum has a whole host of good and nutritious things in it to help aid in your pet's overall good health. If anything comes along to upset this unique balance, your rabbit's health may become compromised if it does.
Fiber is Very Essential
Without a fairly substantial amount of fiber or if your rabbit eats way too many carbohydrates his GI tract will not be able to function properly. This in turn can cause GI stasis which can lead to your pet's death.
The Most Important source
The most important ingredient in your rabbit's good health is hay. Not only does it provide excellent fiber, it is also fun for your bunny to rummage around in. It is also a superb chewing material which keeps your rabbit's teeth sparkling white and clean. You should also add in a few extra grasses to tempt bunny's taste buds such as alfalfa, timothy grass and oats. If you do these things for your rabbit, you will be offering him a delicious array of palatable delights, and ensuring that he has many healthy years of life to come.
Do you want to choose best rabbit food for your rabbit. Please visit us to choose a pet rabbit and learn more on this topics..
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Heartworm Prevention - How 5 Simple Changes Can Keep Your Pets Heartworm Free Without Pills
The one big question that comes up over and over again for pet owners is heartworm prevention. I do not use conventional heartworm prevention with my own pets. That is to say, a pill that I get from a vet. They are however, free of heartworms. It is possible for you to do the same with some simple changes that will enhance the life of your pet.
First, I will point out a few things that you might not have thought of. Wolves, coyotes, bob cats and other wild canine and feline breeds do not get regular monthly heartworm pills. And there are very few documented cases of any dying of heartworms. Think about that for a minute. Let your brain absorb that. Why then do our domestic animals get heartworms? These wild animals do not go to the vet annually for vaccinations, they eat what they can hunt, but don't have many of the diseases that plague our domestic animals. Are they getting infected with heartworms even though they are not taking a pill? No, of course not. It has never happened nor will it ever Why? It is solely because they have immune systems that are functioning as intended, "seeing" this parasite for what it is: foreign. The job of the immune system is to react to foreigners, be they bacteria, viruses, parasites, or cancer cells. "React" means to send in special blood cells, like natural killer cells to make antibodies and create inflammation; and in various ways, to attack those foreigners and eliminate them from the body. That's what the immune system was designed to do, and, if we don't interfere with it, that is what it does with great efficiency.
Here is a quote from Dr. Will Falconer, DVM "Is there evidence that the wild canids are really not dying of heartworm? Yes, in fact. Several years ago, preparing for a seminar on natural health care, I searched the literature for evidence of heartworm deaths in wolves and coyotes. Some very interesting data emerged 1. In this study, coyotes were autopsied after being trapped. Only 7% had evidence of heartworm present in the heart. And none of those who had the heartworm died of this parasite. The worms were incidental findings, i.e. not causing disease. And that's how it works in the real world. It would only be the very weakest members of a pack, those suffering from malnutrition or disease or weak genetic constitutions, who would succumb to parasites and die from them."
So what's the answer. According to Dr. Falconer there are 5 main things to consider.
NutritionVaccinationToxin exposureChronic DiseasesLifestyle
Nutrition
Feed your animals the very best natural ingredients. That means food that has not been processed to death devoid of all nutrients and full of fillers and toxic preservatives. Making your own food can be very cost effective and allow you to control what your pets are eating. Many dogs have allergies to common ingredients in processed dog food causing rashes, hot spots, behavioral problems etc.
Vaccinations
I have written on vaccinations before but it's something that you have to be aware of. Does you pet really need yearly vaccinations? Or does your vet need the income? As harsh as that sounds, in some cases it is the bitter truth. Repeated vaccinations weaken the immune system leading to chronic disease, and sometimes even death.
Toxin Exposure
Q: What's is the main ingredient in products that kill fleas? A: A pesticide. Are pesticides poisons? Of course, that's how they rid the dog of these pests, they poison the fleas.What are some other ways an animal can get exposed to toxins besides flea control? Lawn chemicals that kill weeds or insects, heartworm preventatives themselves (see the labels for warnings), household cleaners, cigarette smoke, etc. We must do something about these exposures.
Chronic Diseases
Common chronic diseases in animals are arthritis, allergies, ear infections, thyroid disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation, like inflammatory bowel disease. What's the treatment for these animals? They commonly get brought to conventional veterinarians and are given drugs for their symptoms. These do not cure the disease, they hopefully control symptoms while the disease continues on, gradually getting worse with time. The outcome for this treatment is one of weaker and weaker animals, whose immunity is weakened by all the drugs, and whose ability to function properly is lessened.
Lifestyle
Animals in the wild get plenty of movement hunting for their food and warding off predators. Regular exercise is important to all animals to keep the body in good physical condition. And did you know that fluoridated water has been linked to increasing risk of hypothyroid. Give your pets fresh filtered water free of fluoride and chlorine.
For more information and resources I recommend go to http://alternativeanimal.com/?p
Why Microchip Your Pet?
Once a cat or dog is adopted, I highly recommend microchipping them before leaving the shelter. A common question people often ask after making this recommendation is, "What is microchipping and what are the benefits?"
Microchipping is the process of inserting a small, inert chip about the size of a large grain of rice beneath your pet's skin with a syringe. It feels like a small shot - your pet may experience slight discomfort for a moment or two, then feel perfectly fine. The chip will contain your contact information, once you've registered it in the microchip database. Microchipping your pet is a quick, easy and typically inexpensive process. When I had my small kitten microchipped, she seemed look at me, wondering what was happening, but barely made even a small sound while the insertion process was going on.
But why is it important to get your pet microchipped? Once a cat or dog is adopted, they don't immediately know what their new home looks like. So, if they happen to get loose somehow (dart out the door, escape their leash, etc.), they will not know which house is their home to return to. I have a friend who wished so badly that he had gotten his new puppy microchipped - he only had him for a week when the dog decided to explore the neighborhood. After hours of calling his name, the neighbor found the pup sitting near the edge of their lawn. As in my friend's instance, keeping your pet secure will help ensure its safety, especially during the first few weeks. But microchipping can offer added peace of mind that your lost pet will be reunited with you no matter what unexpected event might occur.
One fact that many pet owners aren't aware of: when a dog wanders away from home, they are often social and go up to people for help. Cats, however, will be more likely to cower in a corner - probably behind some bushes or under a deck - and can go unseen for days, until it's too late. Keeping your eyes and ears peeled for a scared, whimpering kitty will be helpful in their survival.
If your pet does scurry off and is found far away from home, a local shelter can perform a simple scan to retrieve your contact information. Important: Your contact information is only available once your pet's microchip has been registered in the database. This should be done almost immediately after the chip has been inserted. If your phone number or address changes at any point, it is important to update the information as soon as possible to ensure that if your pet is ever lost, it can be easily reunited with you.
If you're interested in learning more about microchipping and helping lost pets find their way home, visit the lost pet website today!
For more information, registering your pet and more visit our lost pet website.
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Things Prospective Pet Owners Need To Consider
Owning a pet is not something that all people are prepared for. Even though pets are sometimes used as a way of getting children to understand responsibility, it should be noted that there are numerous adults that need a lesson in responsibility as well. The number of abandoned pets is constantly increasing, as people who realise they do not have what it takes to be a pet owner either dump them on the streets, or try to sell them to different pet stores. There are numerous reasons for this. Sometimes the cost of pet accessories, dog supplies and food is just too high for the new owner. Other times, excessive breeding can be an issue, especially in the case of rabbits being held together in the same rabbit hutch.
Regardless of the reason though, the outcome is the same. The pet is left abandoned on the street or in a pet store. If the pet is young, most pet stores will accept it, but if the pet is over 6 months old, most stores will reject it and the owner will usually either dump it on the street, or take it to a local shelter. Shelters deal with abandoned dogs and cats daily, and taking a pet that is no longer wanted, to a shelter, is much better than simply dumping it on the street, hoping it survives.
There are other pets however that are not even taken to a shelter. Dogs may be left to fend for themselves in the streets, gold fish may be flushed directly down the toilet, and rabbits may simply be thrown outside. It all depends on the owner and how much he or she still cares for the pet.
Those who have only had their pet for a couple of days before realising they are not suitable for the role tend to dispose of their pet at the first chance they get. This either means the local dogs home, or leaving the pet somewhere on the side of the road. Sometimes the pet is lucky enough to be spotted by a pet lover, and either adopted directly or taken to a local shelter where it is cared for. Most of the time, however, the pet is unlucky, and simply does not manage to survive without help.
To prevent such cases, new pet owners need to be extremely well informed when purchasing any pet. Purchasing one simply based on its looks is not advisable, as this is what leads to the problem in the first place. People purchase a small, cute little bird or rabbit thinking that it is extremely cute and that it does not take up a lot of space, but they only realise the mistake they made when the animal starts growing and requiring regular exercise and many feedings. It requires more and more money for food, toys and trips to the vet, and the new owner realises the mistake he has made and resorts to one of the options mentioned above.
Since all pets tend to get extremely attached to their original owner, abandoning them in a shelter after a moderate amount of time is something extremely painful. It is not uncommon for pets who just arrive in a shelter to not eat or drink anything for several days due to depression and feeling abandoned. In numerous cases, giving the pet an item with the smell of the original owner solves this problem, although it is just a temporary solution.
The research that needs to be done before purchasing a pet is not strictly related to what type of pet to choose. It also needs to contain the monthly cost of the pet, as that can get extremely high for some high maintenance pets. Some pets, like rabbits, only require a small rabbit hutch and some food, but most of the time, the number of accessories, and their cost, is intimidating. Pet accessories can quickly add up, and their cost may be enough to get the new owner to abandon the pet. This is especially common for dogs, as their owners discover how much food and dog supplies cost each month, and they realise they cannot afford to pay that much. By having an estimate of how much the food and supplies of their new pet will cost each month, owners can decide in advance if this is something they want to proceed with, or not.
Leah Williams writes articles for Supapet, an online provider of pet accessories in the UK, suitable for a wide range of different animals. From rabbit hutch furniture to dog supplies, Supapet have got it covered. They also offer a next day delivery service for urgent orders.
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Understanding Your Pets Better
Understanding means getting the message across and comprehending it. Not all people understand the needs and wants of everyone around him/her that is why there are misunderstandings and conflicts. We don't want to be misunderstood right? Then we should send our message clearly and effectively. Animals need to be heard and understood too! There are people that tend to disregard the feelings of animals because they believe that animals can't feel or understand a thing. This is not true because they can feel pain, happiness and discomfort. They also want and need things. What is worse is that they cannot say a word. That alone should collect enough sympathy to many people and pet owners. Animals only make noises and hope that you get the message.
If you are a pet owner, it is important that you appreciate your pet and you recognize their needs and wants. It is like parenting because it takes a lot of effort, time, love, dedication, patience and more importantly responsibility to be successful in raising a pet. There are many admirable pets out there that you can choose but if in this case you choose to have rabbits, you are free to do so. Understanding your rabbit means getting to know their way of life. You should know that rabbits are popular because of its rapid reproductive rate; they will turn into a multitude in time. They are herbivores which mean they are happy with just grasses. They live in meadows, forests, woods, grasslands, wetlands and the like. There are 47 breeds that you can choose. It is helpful if you distinguish a male rabbit from a female rabbit. By the way, male rabbit is called buck while female rabbit is called doe; their young is called kit or kitten.
Now that you learned how they live, it is important that you provide your pet rabbit with the following things to make them happy, delighted and satisfied:
1. Make sure they have a comfortable hutch or cages. Whether you choose to place them outside your house or inside the house, their cages should be liveable and comfortable. If you cannot give them that, it is better if you return them to the wilds. There are many hutch or cage designs in store for you so don't worry. Choose one that is spacious so that your rabbits can play.
2. Feeding your rabbits is important. You should implement strict feeding time so that your rabbits will not be left hungry. You can choose to give your rabbit grasses, hay or anything as long as your vet agrees to it.
3. Grooming is essential. Generally, rabbits are hygienic. They don't need to take a bath because it will only stress them. If you see dirt, it is good if you do spot cleaning. If you see their hairs are long, you should trim it. If their nails are long, you should cut it to avoid hurting other rabbits.
Rabbits are inexpensive to raise. They are easy to take care of. Understanding is difficult but if you put your heart to it, in time you will learn and understand everything they do. Love your rabbits and for sure you will be loved in return.
David D. Warren enjoys writing for The Rabbit Hutch Shop which sells rabbit hutch and rabbit hutches as well as a host of additional products.
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What Is the Secret to Finding the Perfect Pet Sitter?
So many times when we go out on initial consultations we find that the client has already interviewed or used another dog walker or pet sitter. There can be many reasons things just didn't work out from, being undependable to the sitter went out of business. I have heard a lot of reasons and very few of them had to do with price. So how can a concerned owner be sure they are finding the right Professional Pet-care Provider?
Well let us get through some of the very basics when you are hiring anyone to come into your home. You want to know if they are insured and their staff is bonded. Proof of insurance should be offered to you at the consultation. They should able to explain the basic coverage for you as well. Another basic is they should provide you with at least 3 references at the consultation. If you have a special need, inquire if they have ever dealt with it before. You should also be signing a contract of some sort that spells out the details of what is covered and what is not. Some sitters will charge you for this initial consult if you don't book with them at that time and others offer consultation for free. Keep in mind though that you need to block out about 60 minutes to discuss your pet care needs. A really good sitter won't rush through the consultation. Ok, so that's the basics: insurance and/or bonding, references, experience, contracts.
But what else might you be looking for? I often say if you are picking up the phone to call a pet sitter you are looking for someone who will do more than just let the dog out and scoop the litter box. Even hiring a midday dog-walker is more than just someone walking your dog. Most really good sitters will customize your pet's visits for you. Customize, that sounds like really expensive, but it is not. It should be all part of the standard visit.
During your initial consultation your sitter will be listening to you, your concerns, and asking questions for clarification. All this is done to determine how the visits to your home and your pet will be "structured." Does your dog bolt out the door? A good pet sitter and dog walker will not only try to keep your dog from bolting out the door, they will discuss with you how to structure the visit to work on teaching your dog good doggie manners at the door. Basic leash manners and leash training as well will be part of the structured visit. This type of basic training will discussed and shared with you. The other thing they should be asking about is your routines with your pet. You can let them know what are some of the routine things your dog likes to do and the sitter can use your techniques to keep your pet happy while you are away.
You want to watch how your pet behaves around the potential sitter, does the sitter ignore the pet or do they work to build an initial bond of trust? Sometimes a sitter just does not hit it off with your pet. Even a really good sitter will occasionally run into a pet that just does not respond well. We have all seen it. The friend that your cat just hates, but loves everybody else. A good sitter will recognize this issue and may turn you down. If that is the case they should have another sitter they can recommend for you. If your pet shows aggression towards the sitter, your pet may not be a good candidate for home visits and the sitter will likely recommend a kennel.
Lastly, does the sitter inquire about cleaning supplies. Things like mops, brooms, and vacuums are often needed during a pet sitting visit. I know we go so far as to locate the dish soap and on long pet sits ask if it is OK to use your washer or dryer to keep pet towels and bedding clean while you are away. A little inquiry like that can tell you a lot about the sitter and the pet sitting company. While it is taking care of your pet, it is also part of taking care of you and your home. Who wants to come home to muddy paw printed up floors, dirty doggie towels, and kitty litter tracked all through the home during a 10 day vacation? I know I would not and neither would my clients.
There is so much more to finding the right pet sitter or dog walker for you and your pet, than just someone showing up to let the dog out. A true in home pet care provider will hit on all the relevant points and those not so relevant ones...like finding the dish soap to help keep the water bowl clean without being told. So watch for those clues in the questions and time spent at the initial consultation and both you and your new sitter will be off to great start!
Beth Pasek is the founder and owner of The Finicky Feline and Fido, LLC a premier pet sitting provider in the Cleveland, Ohio market. She specializes in providing customized pet sitting and dog walking packages that feature the structured visit.
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Is It the Right Thing to Get Your Pet a Heated Bed?
We all want to do the very best for our animals. We are, after all, responsible for their health and happiness and most of us love pampering our feline and canine friends. Older dogs or cats who suffer from arthritis or simply aching muscles and joints can often really benefit from the warmth of a heated bed. If you live in a fairly cold area that suffers really chilly temperatures, then your pets can suffer from exposure to the cold. Not all breeds have sufficiently thick coats. In these cases, getting a pet a heated bed is a great idea.
However, there are some conditions that are aggravated by heat and would be made worse by a heated bed or mat. In particular animals who might have any skin condition or recent wounds should not be exposed to additional heat as this might worsen the condition. The best thing to do is double check with your vet to see whether or not a heated bed is the right avenue. In all cases, you should never let your pet lie directly against a heat source but should ensure that there is a blanket or some sort of covering between.
When you start looking for the right heated bed for your pet you will be faced with an enormous variety of products on the market. Some things to keep in mind when you're researching all these products are:
Pets Are Family Too!
I am sure that I am not alone in saying that my husband and I love our pets like they are our children. Many people treat their pets as members of their family and shower on them all the love, care and concern someone would give any member of their family and we are no different. We personally, have three dogs, a cat and a mini macaw. There are more animals than humans in our household but it is a harmonious place. They all have their own personalities and place in our family unit, and they are all cherished for their foibles, charm, the great love and affection they give us freely, and the easy going and malleable natures they have developed over the years. We are proud pet owners and I feel like we have done our fare share in rescuing wonderful animals that were in dire need of a forever family.
My husband and I got our first dog very soon after we met and moved in together. He was a Beagle Black Lab mixed breed that we rescued from the local Humane Society and he was three months old (we named him Garcia...yes...after Jerry). He had kennel cough when we adopted him and the folks at the Humane Society told us he may not live. They didn't take into account the stubborn Beagle traits the little guy had because not only did he survive the kennel cough but he lived to be 15 years old! Never having a puppy before I was surprised at how much work it was! The potty training, shots, bathing, feeding, walking, training...and of course many hugs and kisses. Talk about a wakeup call; it was a wakeup call I would never regret.
I have always loved animals and my family and I had many different kinds while growing up. We had rabbits, hamsters, fish, dogs, cats, birds and horses. But once I reached adulthood I was too busy with the normal things twenty-something people do to consider getting a pet. When I met my husband that changed and our one rescued dog named Garcia turned into three rescued dogs. We would eventually we would adopt two more when our first two died of old age.
After many years owning pets I can honestly say me and my husband have definitely made some mistakes, but we have also learned a lot. If I were asked what one of the most important factors is in owning any pet I would say to simply give them the attention, love and proper care they need and crave. So many people get a pet on a whim and then quickly forget about them when the shine and novelty wear off. Pets are not toys, they are sentient beings with very definite needs and a very clear dependency on their human caretakers.. What is one of the biggest mistakes people make in pet ownership? Not giving adequate boundaries and corrective training! Dogs especially, are very pack driven and need clear direction on who the pack leader is and what is their role in the family unit is. Without calm, consistent and assertive guidance from a human pack leader dogs will sometimes develop aggressive tendencies and/or neurosis. This bad behavior will make life difficult for everyone in the family. In the long run the animal suffers since they end up in killing shelters, destroyed or simply chained out in a yard alone and uncared for. Start boundary and corrective training early, by three months of age, and be consistent; you will save yourself, your family and your pet much heartache, confusion and grief in the future.
Dawn Combs, author
http://www.petfoodfunandtraining.com
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Custom Ceramic Pet Urns: Loving Memories for Family Pets
Creating the proper memorial for your pet after they have passed on can be a bit of a challenge. You want to find something that represents them while keeping it from being something overly extravagant. So, when you've searched funeral homes and scoured the internet, what can you do if you still haven't found the right urn for your pet? Consider looking into custom made ceramic pet urns for your beloved family friend. If you feel this is the right decision for your pet memorial, then there are other items to take into consideration.
Why ceramic pet urns?
There are many materials that you can choose to work with when it comes to pet urns, but ceramic pet urns are a good choice because of their versatility and relative economical price (metal and wood can cost a pretty penny when you have custom urns made). These urns can be formed into almost any shape and can have a glaze added before the firing or be painted afterwards. Another upside to ceramic urns is that, should you ever decide to bury the urn, you can take comfort in knowing that it is biodegradable.
What form should the urn take?
The big question that you'll have to answer when you decide to have a custom ceramic pet urn made for your dog or cat is what type of form you want the urn to take. You can go with something fairly concrete, such as a likeness of your pet, or something a bit more abstract. This is when communication with the artisan crafting your urn is so important. Try to make a list of things that you want to convey with your pet's urn. Whether you want it to be very realistic or if you want to the urn to embody some of the characteristics of your pet, such as "playful, loyal or peaceful," an artist will work with you to ensure that your needs are met.
What can I expect from the artist?
The custom urn process is not as simple as filling out a form. It involves communication from both parties. Once you've filled out an initial request form, you and the artist will probably begin a back and forth dialogue about ideas and sketches. They will send you drawings of their ideas of ceramic pet urns and you can tell them what modifications you would like made, if any. Don't be shy about giving feedback. This is your pet's urn, so you have every right to make sure it's perfect.
Melody Jamali is the Founder and President of (Une Belle Vie), a Colorado company dedicated to bringing choice of cremation to public light. Their company offers the widest selection in decorative urns for cremation and includes a wide collection of resources designed to help families and friends in their time of need. From tool for the grieving to informative articles about planning, support and other uplifting thoughts, Une Belle Vie is a company dedicated to helping your celebrate the life of the one you love - on your terms.
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Aquarium LED Lighting Comparison
Do LED Aquarium light fixtures really cost more than other lighting fixtures?
This comparison takes into account the initial setup, and continued cost of lighting a beautiful aquarium over a 1-2 year period. It will show that LED's are actually the cheapest to keep and maintain.
Currently fluorescent light fixtures (VHO) are the least expensive to purchase while LED is the most expensive with Metal Halide (HQI) somewhere in the middle.
The first thing to be considered is bulb replacement. The VHO and HQI bulbs need to be replaced every year, while the LED lasts 7 -10 years.
The second consideration is heat. You might not think of heat when referring to lighting, but heat is an issue for aquariums. HQI produce so much heat that chillers are often used to help lower aquarium temperatures. This often requires an extra pump to help run water through the chiller itself. VHO fixtures in general do not produce enough heat to require a chiller but some of the high output fixtures that use ballasts, will also produce heat. LED fixtures have little to no heat, so no heat transferred to the aquarium.
The last consideration is power. Electricity runs all of the lighting fixtures, but by far the most energy efficient is the LED, then the VHO, and then the HQI.
I myself had an HQI fixture on my 260 gallon fish tank. I switched to standard (VHO) bulbs, and then to LED, which I currently use and like. My electric bill dropped by half, from a budgeted amount of $900 / month, to a current $450 /month. I eliminated the chiller, and two sump pumps used for the chiller and skimmer.
One additional aspect to consider other than cost is the effects on the aquarium inhabitants. For instance, the VHO bulb gives an even light distribution along the entire bulb, giving the tank a constant light throughout the entire aquarium. The HQI gives a more concentrated beam of light, more like the sun, has a more natural shaded area and a shimmer effect on the surface of the water. LED's also give a shimmer effect to the surface of the water and can be set up to simulate cloud cover, sunrise, and sunset.
All together, the overall benefits of LED light fixtures make up for initial cost in future savings. By the time you add in the cost of replacing bulbs every year, extra pumps, chillers, and the electricity it costs to run such devices the clear winner is the LED fixture.
Thank you for reading my article, I hope it helps you in choosing the right lighting fixture for your aquarium.
Jeffery P Mey is an aquarium enthusiast with over 40 years of experience. He can provide additional information about lighting fixtures and bulb replacement.
Wake up your aquarium with a new light fixture or replace your old bulbs at AquaLighting.
While you are there be sure to subscribe to his other Article Writings.
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Fleas Have Been A Nuisance For Centuries
Fleas have been in existence for millions of years and prefer to feed from the blood of warm-blooded animals. They also like to make a home and survive in carpeting, furniture, blankets, shoes, pants, and other clothing. These wingless parasites are able to jump from one host or hiding place to another with ease.
There are approximately two thousand species, but the cat flea is the most common pet flea and infects both cats and dogs. This variety prefers indoor animals due to the warmer temperatures and cannot survive colder climates. They may inhabit virtually anywhere on canines, but are more often found on the back of the neck and base of the tail of felines since these are areas not easily reachable when grooming.
These tiny, black pests are able to transmit diseases to humans like the plague, murine typhus which is a bacterial infection, and the skin disease tungiasis. Their saliva may cause allergic reactions to sensitive pets and people resulting in the need for steroid shots or antihistamines to relieve pain and swelling.
If flea larvae consume fecal matter from the pet dog or cat that contains tape worm eggs, those eggs grow and hatch inside the flea. Fleas that are chewed and swallowed by the affected animal make their way into the intestine and are broken down in digestion. However, the parasite survives and grows into a tape worm that produces more eggs which are expelled with the animal's fecal matter. This restarts the entire process and may spread to other pets in the home.
Besides tape worms, pet fleas cause skin sores, hair loss from biting and scratching, open wounds, bacterial infections, and anemia. Animals who are allergic to a flea's saliva suffer from various forms of dermatitis. Prescription medications may be required to soothe pain, swelling, and irritation.
Various methods such as Frontline Spot On and Advantage are directly applied to the animal where it is absorbed into their blood stream and disbursed throughout their skin. As these parasites feed on the host animal's blood, their nervous system becomes paralyzed which results in their death. The protective coating produced on the dog or cat's skin by their natural oils also deters them from remaining.
Fleas do not like the smell or taste of garlic, yeast, lemon, eucalyptus, lime, cedar, myrrh, or neem. A teaspoon of garlic added to dog food once a day will keep the family dog flea free, but the digestive system of cats cannot tolerate this. Sprinkling salt on infested areas in the home kills them by dehydration.
Pet fleas are a nuisance to pet dogs, cats, their owners, and homes during their short one hundred day lifespan. Immediate steps should be taken to rid the infected animal and household of these parasites before serious health issues affect everyone in the dwelling.
This article was written on behalf of Flea treatment online retailer fleakiller.org.uk. For more information about pet health please visit http://www.allaboutpethealth.co.uk
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5 Reasons to Use Implantable RFID on Your Pet
How many times have you seen a "Lost Pet" poster in your neighborhood? Some pets and breeds don't respond when called, or recognize their territory is limited to your house or yard. Losing a pet is can be a tragic and stressful experience.
But, due to advances in radio frequency technology, this risk can be easily prevented. A veterinarian can now implant a completely harmless RFID tracking tag safely beneath the animal's skin. Though the technology is fairly new, many pet owners are already opting to protect their pets with Implantable RFID devices.
In fact, The Iams Co., routinely pledges to donate wireless RFID scanners to animal shelters that pick up unidentified animals. This enables shelters to identify RFID implanted pets and contact their owners, or begin the often fruitless task of holding the animal until it is claimed. Often less than 15% of lost dogs and cats are ever returned to their home.
Give yourself peace of mind that you'll never lose your beloved pet. Have your animal tagged with an RFID device. Here are 5 reasons to use implantable RFID tagging on your pet.
1. No Adverse Effects
The RFID tag is about the size of a grain of rice. It's inserted quickly and easily underneath your pet's skin with a hypodermic needle, completely without sedation. The tag is encased in a special coating that will not irritate the tissue. In fact the casing is made of a special material that allows the tissue to grow around the tag and bond with it in the same way that an ear piercing heals.
Radio-frequency beams communicate with a scanner through the epidermal layers of the skin. Your pet will experience no more pain or irritation than they would from a standard vaccination.
2. Low Cost
The cost of the RFID chip is around $50, with some additional costs for implanting the tag and programming the owner ID database. That $50 is a small price to pay for the peace of mind you will have knowing that if your dog or cat ever turns up missing, it's only a matter of time before he or she is returned.
3. Better than a Collar
Even if your pet wears a collar or harness, an RFID tag is still a far more secure method of identifying your dog. In the wild, collars are easily snagged on things and torn or slipped off. Due to their implantable nature, RFID tags are guaranteed never to come off. As you might have assumed, they're completely weatherproof as well.
4. RFID Tags Transmit Vet Info
Not to scare you, but should your pet get lost and suffer an accident, they may not get medical attention before it's too late. Implantable RFID tags assist with this as well. The tag transmits to a scanner a unique ID code, the pet's name, breed, owner's info, and veterinary info. With the veterinary info, anyone can retrieve the pet's medical records ensuring that they get proper care in time.
5. Managing Livestock
For those of you who keep animals for commercial uses can greatly benefit from RFID tagging. The tags allow you to quickly identify animals and manage herds. Since the outbreak of mad-cow disease, this has been a critical component of managing and protecting your investment.
Protect your pet with an implantable RFID tag today!
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5 Reasons Why Pets Are Good for Your Health
Did you know that pets can have a positive impact on your health? We're always told to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly in order to keep up with our health, but who knew owning a pet could add to these benefits?
1) Allergy Fighters
Most people think that growing up with pets will actually make allergies worse. However, it has been found that kids growing up in a home with "furry" animals have a lower risk for developing allergies and asthma. The reason for this is because the young immune system will get use to the allergens, preventing problems in the future.
2) Improve Your Social Life
Whether you have a dog, cat, or guinea pig, pets are great conversation starters. Most of the time, owning one forces owners to meet new people-through obedience classes, going on walks, the waiting room at the vet's office, etc... Dogs can actually help people ease out of social isolation or shyness.
3) Good for the Mind, and the Heart!
Animals have the ability to relax us, who in this world doesn't feel at ease in the midst of a kind animal. Because of this, owning a pet can prove to lower blood pressure, improve depression and other mood disorders and decrease stress. Nursing home residents' quality of life can be bettered from regular visits from pets and it has also been shown that Alzheimer's patients have fewer outbursts when there is a dog around.
4) They Help Us to Lose Weight
It's true; studies have shown that people who own pets have healthier weights than those who don't. This is because pets, especially dogs, require exercise which forces us to get up off the couch and get exercise too. There are several different ways you can exercise with your pet, it isn't only limited to walking.
5) They Teach Us New Skills
Believe it or not, pets can be great teachers. The list of lessons they can teach us is endless. Whether your pet shows you how to be responsible or how to make friends, he will prove to be one of the smartest friends you've ever had! If you have children, having a pet can not only help to promote responsibility, but also encourage empathy and caring behaviors.
It is understandable to pets aren't for everyone, but all of these are great reasons to get one. The advantages of owning one far outweigh the disadvantages. No matter what, owning a pet is a great learning experience for all of us.
We love pets! Probioticsmart.com knows your pet deserves the very best care possible, and we're here to help. Visit our blog for more tips and stories about pets as well as information on health promoting pet supplements. See you there!
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Is Your Pet Winterized? Top Cold Weather Tips for Dogs and Cats
Winterize my house - check, winterize my car - check, winterize my pet - what? With the full wrath of winter upon us...arctic winds, plummeting temps, snow and freezing rain (ugh), have you taken the time to be sure that your pet is winterized? That is, prepared for the frigid temps and all that goes along with it? Take note of these special precautions and tips to ensure your pet is safe and protected this winter.
Un-Pet Friendly Winter Products
Anti-Freeze: Be sure that you keep your pet far away from automotive anti-freeze. This highly toxic yellowish green fluid poses a life-threatening danger to pets. It contains ethylene glycol which is a potent toxin to the kidneys. Just as little as a lick of this dangerous fluid can be dangerous to your pet. Take your pet to the vet immediately if you suspect that your dog or cat has ingested anti-freeze. Early treatment is essential.
Windshield Washer Products: Less toxic, but also a danger, are windshield washer products. They contain methanol which can cause severe nervous system depression in pets. If pets ingest these fluids they may exhibit drooling, vomiting, and instability.
Ice Melt Products: Treating sidewalks, driveways, and steps with rock salt and other ice melt products is another routine of winter months. If pets ingest these products, they can suffer from gastrointestinal tract irritation, as well as depression, weakness, seizures, cardiac issues, and other life threatening issues. Without ingestion, rock salt and other ice melt products can dry out and irritate your pet's paws and stomach. Dry paws can lead to cracks and possible infection (not to mention discomfort). There are pet safe ice melts on the market; however, you can't control what others are putting on their sidewalks. To help prevent irritation and injury to your pet, gently wash and dry off their paws AND bellies at the end of their walk. If you are traveling with your pet, be sure to wash off your pet's paws and belly once you get them in the car. As a preventative measure, you may want to consider boots for your pet...however; I have yet to find some that stay on! Applying pet paw wax to your dog's pads is another preventative measure.
Space Heaters: In seeking out warm places, pets may cozy up to space heaters or heat lamps which can also pose dangers to your pets. Keep fluffy tails away from heat lamps and space heaters, as they can easily ignite into flames. In addition, dogs and cats love to seek out the warmth of a fire. Be sure that your fireplace is protected by either a safety screen or glass to help prevent sparks from flying out and landing on your dog or cat.
Outdoor Threats
The Elements: Your pet needs to be protected from the cold itself. Just because your pet has fur doesn't mean they are completely protected from the elements. If you have a short haired breed, you may want to consider protective clothing for them. In addition, when the temps really dip (particularly when the wind chill is a factor), limit their time outdoors. In addition, if you are traveling by car with your pet, do not leave them in a freezing cold car. After you turn the heater off, the temperature rapidly drops. You know your pet best, so be sure to keep a close eye on them and bring them in if they are exhibiting signs of being too cold. Monitor your pet closely to avoid any type of severe reaction to overexposure to cold such as hypothermia. Signs of hypothermia include: lethargy, weakness, shivering, and muscle stiffness, difficulty breathing, fixed and dilated pupils.
Bodies of Water: Most dogs love to romp in the snow off-leash. Be sure to know the area in which you are playing with your dog. Be sure to keep your pet away from bodies of water - even if they appear frozen. Incidents of dogs falling through the ice happen way too often and are easily preventable.
Car Engines: Outdoor cats find warm engines the perfect place to find warmth during the cold winter months. Turning your car on with a cat curled up on your engine is obviously a big danger. To alert any cat that may be near your car engine, bang on your hood a few times before getting in and starting your car.
Escaping the Cold
Some choose to skip the winterizing stuff and travel to a warmer climate with their dog or cat. If you plan to travel with your pet to escape the cold, be sure to plan ahead. If traveling by plane, check with your carrier to determine their airline pet policies. If traveling by car, be sure to plan ahead and take all the necessary steps to ensure your pet has a safe and happy journey, including securing pet friendly hotels along your travel route!
Kim Salerno is the President & Founder of TripsWithPets.com. She founded the pet travel site in 2003 and is an expert in the field of pet travel. Her popular web site features pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the US and Canada, along with other helpful pet travel resources. Her mission is to ensure that pets are welcome, happy, and safe in their travels.
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