The Importance Of Paying Attention To Your Pet

I was super-busy with work. I neglected daily attention and physical checking on my wonderful German Shepherd dog. For two days, I noticed blood spots on the kitchen floor where he habitually slept. On the third day, I finally woke up and checked my dog over. He was bleeding from his penis! Distressed and feeling very guilty, I rushed him to my vet. The vet ran some tests and diagnosed an enlarged prostate that had constricted his blood vessels. Immediately, I approved surgery on his enlarged prostate, and so far, two years later, he's been fine.

He didn't whine, he didn't growl, he didn't shriek in pain to alert me to his medical problem. I have no way of knowing how much pain it caused him. 
Since that horrible and very expensive incident, I've learned. These days, every day, I check him over head to toe for any signs of a medical problem. Everyone knows that early detection and a quick trip to their doctor can catch medical problems in themselves early, and give us a much better chance of nipping a problem in the bud.

Because our pets are often stoic and silent about medical problems that are causing them pain, it's up to us to spend the time and effort to check them over each and every day to detect any cause of pain or signs of problems.

What should you daily check include?

1. Eyes: are the eyes clear and alert?

2. Fur: is it soft and silky? Is your pet grooming himself/herself thoroughly? Does you pet smell good? Failure to groom and keep its fur silky and clean is a critical sign that your pet has a medical problem. For cats, a daily or weekly gentle brushing can make all the difference. For dogs, daily brushing may be required to keep high-maintenance long-haired breeds looking their best, but even short hair dogs benefit greatly from brushing. Check with your local pet store and ask them what is the best style grooming brush for my breed?

3. Check the paws. Are they strong and healthy? Do they have cracks or fissures?

4. Check the nails. Are they short from sufficient exercise? Are they split? Split nails can be very painful. A nail clipping at your groomers can cost only $6 and take only 3 minutes. It's worth it to get their nails professionally clipped to stave off painful splits and breaks.

Springtime Pet Safety

Now that you've made it through the winter you'll be anxious to get outside with your pet and start your springtime activities. Everything from gardening to cleaning is on the list as you prepare to get out and about. Your pet will appreciate the nice weather too as he gets to spend more time outdoors. While you may enjoy welcoming this great weather don't forget about the hazards to your pet that may come with it. A little foresight and prevention can go a long way in having an enjoyable spring.

Spring has Sprung

The best part of spring is the opportunity to replant the garden and make your lawn beautiful. Do a little research before planting your flowers as some springtime plants can be harmful to your pets. Azaleas, rhododendrons and particularly Easter lilies are toxic to pets and can make them sick. Fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides that keep your plants green can also make your pets ill. If possible, find non-chemical solutions for keeping your plants and pets healthy.

Cleaning Up and Home Improvement

Another spring ritual that presents some issues is spring cleaning. Those household cleaners can be harmful to your pet, just like outdoor chemicals. Use them sparingly and store them where inquisitive pets can't get to them easily. Follow the instructions on the label to make sure you're using them correctly. Along with cleaning, home improvement is also popular during this time of year. Be mindful of staples, paints, nails and insulation that your pet can swallow or hurt themselves with.

Allergies

Just like people, pets can have allergies too. Pets that are allergic to pollen will have runny noses and will have itchy ears and noses. Skin allergies are possible if your pet gets into some deep vegetation. Itchy skin, licking at the base of the tail and paws are signs of allergies and can cause a rash. Your vet can give you recommendations on what to do if your pet needs relief.

Outdoor Pests

Your pet isn't the only one looking forward to going outside in the spring -- so are fleas and ticks. Talk to your vet about preventive measures you can take to make sure your pet isn't affected by these little creatures. Even if your pet has been treated, they may still carry fleas and ticks in to the house where they can make your life miserable. If you find a tick on your pet, remove it or have a vet take a look.

Spring Holidays

There are many celebrations that take place this time of year that present safety issues. Easter chocolates, fake grass, and decorations can cause poisoning or intestinal tract blockage if ingested. Be mindful of where you keep these items and warn those celebrating with you of the potential dangers. Many people also buy Easter pets such as chicks and baby bunnies. Have a plan of what you'll do with these animals after the celebration is over. A novelty for a one day celebration may become a hefty commitment.

Where Did You Go?

Now that you're out and about, make sure your pet can be properly identified if they decide they want to explore on their own. Lost pets need ID tags with current information on them and microchip information needs to be up to date. Keep a current photo of your pet for easy identification or in case you have to make flyers.

Springtime can be fun and exciting. With safety in mind, it can be enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Dogs and Cats on Cold Weather

1. A fur coat doesn't mean your pet can't get cold- While most pets do have a nice fur coat to help keep them warm, remember that they can still get cold just like we do. When dealing with cold weather, make sure that your pet is never exposed to very low temperatures for too long. Keep the following in mind:

- Never leave a pet in your car during the winter.
- Keep your kitty inside. Cats can freeze in very low temperature weather, or can be exposed to dangerous diseases and situations they wouldn't normally face.
- Don't leave your dog outside in the yard for extended periods.
- Never shave your dog down to the skin during the winter.
- Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep when at home.
- Puppies, elderly dogs, small dogs, or dogs with very short hair may benefit from a coat or sweater if they will be exposed to cold weather on long walks or outings.

2. Watch out for kitty- Outdoor cats often hide themselves in car engine compartments or other areas that could pose a danger if you're not paying attention. Banging on your car hood before starting the engine, honking, or otherwise giving a neighborhood cat a chance to escape is recommended during cold weather.

3. Wipe your paws- It's important to make sure that you wipe down your furry pal after any outdoor time in the snow or ice. In addition to drying your pet and helping to keep them warm, wiping your pet down will help remove salt and harmful chemicals used on roads and sidewalks in the winter. It will also help prevent their paws from cracking or bleeding due to packed snow/ice.

4. Keep 'em fed- Make sure your pup gets enough food in the winter. Just like humans, dogs will often exert extra energy on long walks in the cold, or play time in the snow. A little extra protein will go a long way towards a happy, healthy pup in the cold weather. Keep an eye on your dog's water dish, as well, to make sure they are getting plenty of hydration, and to ensure their water bowl hasn't frozen if left outside.

5. Don't let Fido off the leash- Dogs can become lost or disoriented in snowy conditions that impede their sense of smell. If lost, dogs will also often find warm hideaways for shelter that end up trapping them. Make sure you keep your pup close, particularly in a snowstorm.

5 Things You Need To Know When Travelling With A Cat

1. Your cat must be used to wearing a harness and having a leash attached to her at all times. Granted, you won't be walking your cat like the family dog, but the harness is still an important safety measure while you are travelling. It's not wise to rely on collars as cats can get their head through just about anything you put around their necks.

2. When packing, make sure to include the litter box as well as your cat's brand of cat litter. These are comforting items to your cat, and will help her to understand that this new location is where she can feel safe and comfortable. New brands of litter, when introduced abruptly, can not only upset a cat, but cause urinary infections, so make sure the brand is the same for your cat's comfort.

3. You'd also want to bring your cat's favourite toys along on the trip. Like the litter box, toys are a sign of home to your feline. Having her favourite mouse and her best scratching post available will be another way that your cat knows this new place is home for the time being and will give them a sense of security with these familiar items.

4. Remember to always bring plenty of food and water from home before you head out. Changing food or water abruptly may cause an upset stomach. Your family vacation won't be very much fun if everyone is worried because the cat is unwell. This simple precaution will assist you to avoid a lot of stress.

5. When travelling with a cat, it's important that you call ahead to make sure that the accommodation you have booked is welcoming to felines. Most of the time, the term "pet friendly" refers to dogs only, and special arrangements have to be made before you confirm that your cat will be coming along for the trip. Unfortunately, it's not safe to assume your cat will be welcome.

Tips For Exercising Dogs On Beaches

A beach is indeed a great chance for your dog to get needed exercise and explore a world that he does not get to see or experience every day. While we recommend taking your pet to a fun-filled day at the beach, we want you to be aware that dogs on beaches do not commonly behave in the same manner as dogs in parks. You will need to take several precautions while you and your dog are out on the sand.

Like any park you would take your dog to, before you arrive, you need to make sure that the beach you are heading off to is indeed a pet-friendly area. There are some beaches that don't allow dogs, mostly for sanitary and safety reasons. Before you get too excited and rush off to take your pet to have fun at the beach, it would be a great idea to do your homework first: do thorough research to make sure it is indeed dog friendly. Taking your beloved pet to a place where he doesn't belong can net you a hefty council fine - not to mention an embarrassing exit from the beach.

When you have dogs on beaches, it is really important that you remain alert and keep your pet near you at all times. Even if your dog is familiar with swimming alone in the waters, an unexpected wave or rip can easily take them out to the open sea. Watch out for local wildlife getting near your dog as well. You would not want your curious pup to meet their first jellyfish or crab while you are at the other end of the beach and too far away to help when he's in trouble. If the beach is filled with adults, children, and their beloved pets, keep your dog leashed for the comfort and safety of others, and always be ready to clean up after your dog.

Tips For Transporting Pets The Next Time You Move

1. Try to keep your stress level to a minimum. While this may be easier said than done, taking a few minutes to play with your pet and reassure them that everything's okay will go a long way in keeping your pet calm.

2. Create a safe area for your pet, which is undisturbed until necessary. Keep a small section of the house your moving from untouched until the last possible minute. This will provide a "safe haven" for your pet. When you arrive at your new location, set up a small area as a new "safe haven" for them.

3. Keep feeding times the same. This will help maintain the routine that you have already established with your pet and keep their lives as normal as possible. Also, be sure to use the same food. A sudden change in diet can sometime make your pet sick.

4. Keep strangers away from your pets. Oftentimes a moving company is hired to help move families from one location to another. Try to limit their interactions with your pets.

5. Pack your pet a travel bag. This can be especially helpful if you are moving a long distance. Pack their food, water, feeding dish and any medications. This will also reduce your stress, trying to locate all of these items during the move.

Seven Tips for Keeping Your Dog Warm in the Winter

1) Consider adopting a cold weather dog. 
If you don't have a dog yet and you live in a cold climate, you could consider getting a dog that is bred to handle well and enjoy cold weather. Alaskan malamutes, Siberian huskies, and chow chows are great dogs for cold climate dwellers.

2) House your dog indoors. 
Even though you may keep your dog outside when the weather is nice, you may not want to do this when it's cold. Housing your dog inside the house is the best way to keep him warm during the winter.

 

3) Pet jackets and sweaters. 
It might sound silly, but there are cute garments like jackets and sweaters you can purchase to keep your pets warm; there is even waterproof clothing you can put on them for play time in the snow.

4) Invest in proper outdoor housing. 
If your dog absolutely has to spend a lot of time outdoors, make sure he has proper shelter. Consider getting a doghouse with a sloped roof, insulation and possibly a heater (make sure the heater is 100% safe and meant for being run outdoors).

5) Soft bedding off the floor. 
Keep your dog warm by placing soft bedding a few inches off the cold floor.

6) Make sure he's getting enough food. 
Some dogs burn more calories during the winter while they're trying to stay warm. This may make him hungrier, so feed him a little more in the winter months if it seems he needs it.

7) Don't forget to give him attention. 
Nothing keeps a dog warmer than a caring, playful, and attentive owner. Make sure you don't forget about your pet if you put him outside, and when the weather is really cold, let him stay inside.

Attracting Birds to the Yard

Make sure there's food available: Putting out bird food is a good way to attract birds to your yard. To attract a greater variety of birds put out different foods such as seed, nuts and fat. Use different feeders, some hanging and a table or platform as different species feed in different ways. Ground feeders will pick up whatever is dropped from either hanging or table feeders.

Birds like water: Birds will still come to your yard if you have a bird bath but they do prefer water that moves. If you have a pond or fountain already then that's great but starting from scratch can be very expensive so don't think you have to have a full blown water feature to attract birds. If you can attach a dripper or mister to your bird bath, it will give the illusion of moving water and wild birds will come to bathe.

Trees and plants: Different bird species are used to varying habitats so the more variety your yard has to offer, the better. A mixture of trees, shrubs, bushes, hedges and grass would be ideal and flowers which produce nectar are also attractive to birds. Shrubs or trees which produce fruit or berries will have the local bird population flocking but don't forget that fruit you are growing for yourself such as cherries will be absolutely ravaged! Birds like to nest in evergreen trees so they will help to attract birds to your yard.

Nesting arrangements: Although birds in the wild usually nest in trees or shrubs and some will even nest on the ground, in a domestic setting they will normally be more attracted to nesting boxes. You can buy these very cheaply or even make your own and attach them to trees or fences. In spring, you can provide nesting material; dead grass, twigs, bits of cotton, shredded paper and dead leaves will all be used and may encourage birds to use your nesting boxes.

Some Tips To Make Sure Your Dog Stays Healthy

Feed your dog premium dog food: As is the case with people, what you put into your dog's body will end up making quite a difference in your dog's health! A lot of people try to save money on the dog food they are buying, but they end up costing themselves more money in the long run, as they end up with a dog more prone to illness - a dog who requires more visits to the vet; better to spend a little extra money now, and to both save money in the long run and have a dog who is a whole lot healthier!

Regular checkups are important: If you are a parent, you know that you do not simply look at your children and decide - from your vantage point of "no medical expertise" - that they look perfectly fine, and therefore have no need of visiting the doctor. Instead, if you have a child, you are going to be making sure they have checkups every six months, no matter how healthy they appear on the surface, and the same goes for your dog; your dog should be looked at every six to 12 months, in order for you to ensure nothing is wrong with it.

Regular physical exercise is vital: If a dog sits around all day, and has no real physical stimulation besides the short walk they get in the evening, they are probably not going to be as healthy as you would like for them to be; just like people, dogs need regular exercise, so make sure you are taking your dog out to places where it can run around and have some fun!

Mental exercise is necessary, too: Mental exercise is actually just as important as physical exercise for many breeds of dog; if a dog does not have anything to do all day but eat and move from sleeping spot to sleeping spot, its mind will become dull, and its body will follow - but if you regularly "exercise" your dog's brain by making them practice their obedience and their tricks, your dog will remain far more engaged with the world around them, and will remain healthier as a result.

Tips For Helping To Prevent Separation Anxiety In Your Dog

Here are a few things you can consider doing in order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring anymore.

Go on a walk before you leave: taking your dog for a walk will help them expend some of their energy, and will leave them in a much more calm and peaceful place when you depart from the house; you can also add a weight pack to your dog to give them a more vigorous exercise, and to leave them even more calm and relaxed!

Avoid contact: Before you depart from home, you should try to avoid eye contact, verbal contact, and physical contact with your dog, as this will train them to understand that you leaving the house is "no big deal"; if you have a hard time simply leaving your house without saying bye to your dog, you can say goodbye to them long before you leave, and can then follow this up by leaving in the calm and unassuming manner mentioned above.

Remain calm and assertive at all times: You need to project a "pack leader" mentality with your dog - not only when you are saying goodbye to them, but when you are saying hello to them as well; by remaining calm and assertive, you will be modeling the behavior you hope for your dog to portray as well, and will offset the problem a great deal.

Start out small: And finally, it will help quite a bit if you start out small, leaving your dog for only a few minutes at a time (practicing all the tips listed above), as this will help to get your dog conditioned to the idea that it is not a big deal at all when you leave the house.

What You and Your Family Needs To Know With Dogs Off Leash

Your kids need to know when it is acceptable to have your dog off leash, and most importantly, when he should be on leash instead. Take some time to go over this with your children. Make sure they know exactly which areas are designated as off leash play areas. Teach them to read the signs carefully. If your children are too young to read or learn where they can take your pet, then they are too young to be responsible for your dog at this stage.

Your kids need to know how to control your dog when he or she is on the leash well before they can be expected to take charge when your pet is off the leash. Children should be skilled and practiced at giving commands, pulling on the leash without hurting your animal and rewarding your pet for good behaviour. Work with your children to teach them these skills before you attempt to have your pet off the leash and under their control.

Kids must understand how to control the dog once he is off the leash. This begins with the kids' ability to call the dog back, regardless of how far away he or she is. Just because your dog obeys your every command doesn't mean that they will answer to your children too. Your dog will need to be trained to listen and take commands from the kids, just like the children will need to be trained to speak to the dog in a way that he or she understands. Teaching your children how to reward your dog for good behaviour is also an important part of this process.

Use treats to get the dog to understand that the children are as much in control as you are. When the children issue the same commands that you do, the dog should know that they are to be obeyed just as they would obey you. Using treats to reinforce this concept is a positive exercise for both your kids and your pets..

How to Make Sure That Your Cats and Dogs Get Along

First thing you need to remember is that you can't rush things. It just won't do to force them to get along immediately, especially since a cat and a dog is not really known to be that close naturally. Take things slowly, and you'll eventually see things progress to a point that you'll find more than just acceptable. Animals can't just instantly like each other; they need the time to actually even get used to each other's presence. Forcing them to get close at once would probably only result in fights or stress them out.

You have to know that a cat will only attack a dog if it is backed into a corner and has no other way out other than to directly attack the dog. So, it would be best that you provide your cat with a place where it cannot be accessed by the dog, so as to avoid any early and unnecessary confrontation between the two. If that happens then it could only serve to delay the process of getting them to at least tolerate each other without any incident.

Remember to always praise your dog for any good or friendly behavior that it displays towards your cat. That way, your dog will gradually associate any pleasant feeling or event with the presence of your cat. You could reward your dog with a treat whenever your cat is around, and even if at the beginning your dog barks at your cat, it will eventually be used to pleasant things when your cat is around.

Before allowing your cat and dog to be physically close to each other, you have to fist be sure that each of then is relaxed and calm. Do this by holding your cat in your arms until it is finally relaxed, before letting your dog come into the room or get anywhere near.