tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36598067282140516832024-03-19T06:02:33.682-07:00The.Bouncy.MuttJMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-65594083539510551342019-08-18T13:25:00.000-07:002020-02-13T08:21:28.208-08:00Why you should spay and neuter your pet?<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are a variety of reasons why you should spay or neuter your precious pet:</span><br />
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Your female pet will live a much longer, healthier life. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, which is fatal in about 50% of dogs and 90% of cats. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Neutering provides major health benefits for your male pet. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Besides preventing unwanted litters, neutering your male companion prevents testicular cancer.</span><br />
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Your spayed female won't go into heat and be utterly annoying. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While cycles can vary, female felines usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. In an effort to advertise for mates, they'll become super lovable but also yowl and urinate more frequently-sometimes all over the house!</span><br />
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Your male dog won't want to roam away from home to find a mate. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">An intact male will do just about anything to find a mate! That includes digging his way under the fence and do whatever it takes to escape from the house. And once he's free to roam, he risks injury in traffic and fights with other males.</span><br />
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Your neutered male will be oh so much better behaved. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Neutered cats and dogs focus their attention on their human families. On the other hand, dogs and cats that are not neutered may mark their territory by spraying intense-smelling urine all over the house. Many aggression problems can be avoided simply by neutering early.</span><br />
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Spaying or neutering will NOT make your pet overweight and/or obese. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not use that old excuse! Lack of exercise and overfeeding will cause your pet to pack on the extra pounds-not neutering. Your pet will remain fit and trim as long as you continue to provide exercise and monitor food intake.</span><br />
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It is highly cost-effective compared to raising a litter of young-ins. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The cost of your pet's spay/neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter. It also beats the cost of treatment when your male pet escapes and gets into fights with the neighborhood stray!</span><br />
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Spaying and neutering your pet is good for the local community. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Stray animals pose a real problem in many parts of the country. They can prey on wildlife, cause car accidents, damage the local fauna and frighten or hurt children. Spaying and neutering has a strong impact on reducing the number of animals on the streets.</span><br />
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Your pet does not need to have a litter for your children to learn about the miracle of birth, their are other ways. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Letting your pet produce offspring you have no intention of keeping is not a good lesson for your children-especially when so many unwanted animals end up in shelters. There are tons of books and videos available to teach your children about birth in a more responsible way.</span><br />
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Spaying and neutering helps fight pet overpopulation and pet homelessness. </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Every year, millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized or suffer as strays. These high numbers are the result of unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.</span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-55076780924579971302019-08-10T21:32:00.002-07:002020-01-22T07:47:49.734-08:00Get Rid of Fleas for GOOD!<h2>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Every summer its the same thing.....the pets get invested with those annoying, jumpy tiny external parasites we all know and hate....FLEAS.</span><span style="font-size: large;">It seems like its always a battle when it gets warm out.</span><span style="font-size: large;">They are everywhere and infest everything not to mention they can give your pets worms as well since they are hosts for worm eggs . Your poor precious pet, the carpets, the furniture, the yard...will it never end?!</span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well there is a way or ways of sorts to keep those tiny blood sucking heathens at bay......here we go:</span></span></h2>
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First treat your yard!</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ensure your yard is always mowed and manicured...do not let it get overgrown! Fleas love hiding in long grass that goes for ticks too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Treat your yard with pesticides if necessary. Read the directions on the chemical treatment and do not let your pets or children out in the yard for at least a good week (solid 7 days) as a precautionary measure so your pet/child does not get exposed to poisonous chemicals.</span><br />
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Treat your home!</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The vacuum cleaner is your best friend...use it daily..no ifs, ands or buts...just do it! Try to use a canister vacuum where you can dump the contents directly in the outside garbage can. Do not dump in inside garbage cans this just defeats the purpose of getting the icky critters out of the house.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have rugs vacuum all of those thoroughly too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hard wood floors? Sweep or mop daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are remodeling your house avoid thick, shag carpet at all costs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have your carpets, rugs and cloth furniture cleaned professionally once or twice a year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Vacuum your cloth furniture (couches, chairs, pillows, pet beds etc) daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Launder pet blankets and beds 2-3 times weekly. Reduces the fleas and any smelly pet odors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do not let clothing of any kind lay on the floor....put in a basket and please do your laundry at least weekly! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use a chemical treatment i.e a flea bomb in every room. Ensure food and anything you do not want chemicals on is sealed or encased in plastic. Once again for precautionary measures try to wait 6-12 hours before entering house. Make sure windows stay open for at least 24 hours to air out the house.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use natural methods like baking soda, salt or food-grade diatomaceous earth on the carpets. Sprinkle liberally let sit for 1-2 hours and vacuum as normal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep a clean home in general! No bug likes a clean home.</span></div>
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Treat your pet!</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use a flea comb to comb out the buggers daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give your pet a chemical flea dip/bath, do it yourself or have your veterinarian do it maybe once once or twice a month. Make sure you read the label and rinse your pet thoroughly!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can wash your pet with a more natural-ish method via Dawn dish washing soap. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Put a chemical flea collar or chemical flea drops (goes on neck and along back) on your pet. Read labels carefully, use and replace as needed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can try a natural flea repellent collar as well most have a citrus scent or homeopathic drops externally.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give your pet a flea pill regularly. Get from a pet store or your veterinarian. As always read directions carefully for proper dosage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give you pet a natural flea pill like brewers yeast or homeopathic drops internally.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give your pet a well-balanced diet, exercise them regularly and keep them up to date on vaccinations. A healthy pet has a better chance of fighting off those pesky things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep your pet indoors, if they don't venture outside, no bug infestations. Simple enough?</span></div>
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Well there you have it. Hopefully you will be flea free this summer! Know any other tips and tricks? Feel free to post in comments.</span></h2>
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-56097594169472249302019-07-14T12:21:00.002-07:002020-01-22T07:48:22.999-08:00The Strange Thing Dogs Do<h3>
<span style="font-family: "proximanova bold reg";"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Humping....Irritating but normal</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As long as it’s not done to excess, humping is actually completely normal, but there are ways you can curb the behavior. Humping can also be a dominating behavior.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Utter Destruction....Burn out that pup's energy first and foremost! </span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are as many ways that dogs can engage in destructive behavior as there are reasons why. Anything from anxiety to not getting enough exercise If you find that your dog is destructive, the first step toward curbing the behavior is to consult with a vet or dog trainer.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Butt Dragging....Take your pup to the vet asap!</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Butt dragging is not normal and is usually a sign that something is medically wrong with your dog. It could be something simple, such as needing to have her anal glands expressed, or it might be something more serious. If you can’t tell anything from a visual inspection, a vet is the next stop.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Falling and Leg-paddling....Seizure?</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Twitching in their sleep is one thing but your dog suddenly falling over and starts to twitch or paddling her legs, there’s a good chance that it’s a seizure. Other signs include appearing worried or clinging to you beforehand, and walking in circles afterward. It is incredibly important that you take your dog to a vet if you suspect she had a seizure, because symptoms almost always worsen without help.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bathroom Audience...The toilet stare-down....</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">It can be unsettling to have your </span>dog stare at you<span style="font-size: 16px;"> as you sit on the toilet (especially if you suffer from bathroom “shyness”!) but there’s nothing particularly “wrong” with the behavior. Dogs just aren’t as hung up on privacy as we are. Still, if the idea of a canine audience truly bothers you, there’s nothing wrong with closing the door or teaching your pooch to stay when you need to do something personal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two primary reasons. First, he may be trying to keep his space clean. That’s right. Some dogs eat their feces as an act of cleanliness. This is an instinctive behavior that female dogs engage in when they’re with their young litter in order to keep the den clean. Gross right?! Second, his food might not be meeting his nutritional needs. Eating poop can be a dog’s attempt to bolster his diet. Either way, it’s not something you want to continue (nor is it healthy). Take your dog to a vet or get a trainer</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Reverse Sneezing...Scary!</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All of a sudden your dog starts making a horrifying sound that seems like a cross between snorting and choking, and she looks like she’s trying to vomit but is also really self-conscious about it. What’s going on? It’s a “respiratory event” that can be caused either by over-excitement or as an attempt to get rid of mucus. Though it looks awful, if you just let it run its course for 30 seconds or so, your dog will go right back to normal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #6d7680; font-family: "proximanova bold reg";"><b><br /></b></span></span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-9539491766525909322019-04-11T20:43:00.000-07:002020-01-22T07:48:47.326-08:00Easter Pet Precautions<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's almost Easter! Here are some tips to keep your pet(s) safe during Easter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Keep chocolate and candy treats far away from pets. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Just say no to giving Easter meal food scraps to your pet. To much fatty foods and spices can wreak havoc on pets' digestive systems. Do you really want to clean puke or runny poo on Easter? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Keep fake Easter "grass" away from your pets.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Have pretty Easter lilies? Make sure you pets can't get to them (poisonous to pets if ingested!) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*If you have a traditional Easter egg hunt, just keep pets inside so they don't get trampled or trample people from all the excitement. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*If you are doing some gardening on Easter weekend keep pets away from pesticides and fertilizers.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Try to avoid purchasing rabbits and chicks for children during this time. Although cute and fuzzy they do need proper time and care. Pets are forever and not just a fad.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.</span></span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-27516571823062054632019-03-01T10:17:00.001-08:002020-01-22T07:49:53.542-08:00How to Calm a Stressed Out Cat or Dog<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Always think of your and pet's safety first before ever approaching a anxiety-ridden or scared animal.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use a calm voice and calm behavior. Do not yell or make quick movements!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lure the pet toward you slowly with a toy or food.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Isolate anxiety-ridden pets temporarily to calm down. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Never lock pets up in a cage or tiny room for 24/7!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Figure out what maybe agitating or causing stress to your pet.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use pheromones to calm your pet, which comes in a spray or plugin form.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Use other non-medication aids like body wraps or pet-safe herbal liquids, chews or tablets. Always ask a veterinarian before using any type of herbal aids!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Consider using short-term medication from your veterinarian.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Consider sedatives that could help your anxiety ridden pet. Always ask your veterinarian as well as get a second or third opinion to be on the safe side.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Explore options for long-term medications from your veterinarian.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-79332408401631227182019-02-09T18:59:00.000-08:002020-01-22T07:54:10.104-08:00Keep Your Pet Safe During a Snowstorm<br />
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<li> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Store up activities for dogs and cats to do while you're together indoors. Kongs, catnip toys, treadmill, scratching posts, etc.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Stock up ahead of time on all pet food and medicine your animals may need over the weekend—travel may be much more difficult or impossible in the event of a snowstorm</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Prepare for a power outage, especially if your family includes fish, reptiles, pocket pets or exotic pets.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Have a coat and booties ready for any dog who needs them. Be ready to protect your pets from very strong wind and cold.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If possible keep your pets indoors! If your pets must be outside provide them adequate covered, draft-free, dry shelter.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Make sure your pets wear identification at all times (even better: have them micro-chipped as well) to dramatically increase your chances of reunification should one become lost.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Keep your dog on a leash after heavy snowfall. Dogs are much more likely to get lost during winter, especially during and after a blizzard.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Watch out for ice melts! Snow-melting salt and liquid de-icer can be very painful to dogs’ feet and can make pups ill if ingested, so make sure to clean off your dog’s paws with a moist washcloth after a walk. This goes for antifreeze as well!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tap your car hood before starting your vehicle to ensure there are not strays or wild critters.</span></li>
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-14226678516861250672019-01-20T19:33:00.000-08:002020-01-22T07:53:55.106-08:00New Year Resolutions for You and Your Pet<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Always measure your pet's food! Use a 8 oz measuring cup and follow the recommended feeding guideline on your pets dry food or ask and follow your veterinarians advice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Choose an age appropriate pet food: puppy/kitten, adult, senior. Also consider your pet's lifestyle: indoor or outdoor? Sedentary, active, or hyper?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Try a new activity with your pet. Hiking, swimming, new/longer walking route, new game, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Incorporate more playtime/exercise time especially if you have a very hyperactive pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Schedule annual well-checkup trips to the veterinarian. Also follow vaccination, flea/tick prevention and/or medication schedule as prescribed by your veterinarian.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Groom your pet daily Short hair or long hair, your pet will benefit from a good brushing. Also gives you some bonding time with you lovely pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Start brushing your pets teeth. Good oral hygiene is a must especially when pets get older.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Teach new tricks to your pet. Works especially well on active breeds who need constant stimulation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Keep your pets collar/tag/ID/microchip information up to date. Ensure you have your correct, updated name, phone and address inputted. That way if your pet gets lost there will be no issues in finding you as the rightful owner.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Consider adopting or fostering another pet. If not animal shelters can always use donations and volunteers. Contact your local animal shelter/rescue and ask what they need the most.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pick one or all of these New Year resolution for a happy, healthy life for you and your pet!</span><br />
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<br />JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-70394788682732290692018-12-05T21:09:00.000-08:002020-01-22T07:54:32.691-08:00BBB: Think carefully before buying a pet as a holiday gift<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>One of the most popular holiday gifts for youngsters is a new member of the family, such as a dog, cat, bird or exotic animal, but is it a good idea to buy a pet without discussing it in advance and getting the entire family on board? Officials with the Better Business Bureau say probably not.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is no question that kids’ faces light up when they get a new pet; however, some young children do not understand that they will have to be responsible for the pet too, and that means feeding and taking a dog out for a walk in the middle of winter.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When your family brings home a pet, it needs some peace and quiet, and the opportunity to get used to its new surroundings. This is often not possible around the hectic holidays, and all of the excitement can be stressful for the pet.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Other concerns involving the purchase of pets are fraud and unwittingly buying from a breeding facility known as a puppy mill. Puppy mills are operations where the breeders put profits ahead of the health of the animals, in conditions experts describe as “inhumane.” When you buy from a breeder outside of the state you are taking a big chance. If you don’t see the breeding facility, you won’t know what sort of conditions the pet was raised in.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">BBB has heard from heartbroken consumers, who send their payment and wait for the delivery, but the pet never arrives, or the seller demands fees that were not disclosed when they made the purchase.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">BBB offers these tips to help you make the right decision for your family when buying a pet:</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">• Select a pet that is age-appropriate. If it is impractical for other family members to help care for larger animals such as cats or dogs, consider buying a small pet such as a hamster, which is easier for children to take care of.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">• Check breeders’ and shelters’ credentials. If you locate a puppy through a website, do not send money without first speaking to the breeder and checking references and credentials. Find out if the breeder is a member of an American Kennel Club-affiliated club and call to verify membership.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">• Avoid buying pets through classified ads. You can get some wonderful deals through classified ads; however, a pet seller may not have the proper paperwork. Some scammers make big money selling pets that they stole from people’s property or public areas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">• Don’t be fooled by a well-designed website. This is always good advice. Unscrupulous operators create professional-looking but fraudulent websites that are designed to lure potential buyers with cute puppy pictures they stole from other breeders’ websites.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">• Take all of the costs into account. Many people don’t think past the initial fee required to buy or adopt a pet. A cat costs about $350 to $400 a year, a small or medium dog costs about $400 to $500 a year and larger dogs even more. You also might want to consider buying medical insurance for your pet. Veterinary care can be very expensive when there’s a health problem or if your pet is injured in an accident.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.news-daily.com/features/bbb-think-carefully-before-buying-a-pet-as-a-holiday/article_c8979517-4b35-5345-bfb8-7977339759f0.html">News-Daily-BBB</a></span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-45844620624581173612018-11-21T07:01:00.000-08:002020-01-22T07:55:13.111-08:00There is No Such Thing As Hypoallergenic Dogs<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog breed, although some individual dogs may cause fewer allergy symptoms than others. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many people think that pet allergies are caused by a dog's or cat's fur, but the real source of pet allergies is often a protein that's in the saliva and urine of dogs and cats. This protein sticks to the dead, dried flakes (dander) from your pet's skin.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Some dog breeds are marketed as hypoallergenic because they don't shed fur or they shed very little. Because these dogs don't shed, the allergy-causing dander that sticks to their fur doesn't get released into the air or onto the floor as much as with a shedding dog. But while you may have less dog hair with a nonshedding dog, no dog breed is hypoallergenic.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>If you're allergic to dogs, but still want to have one, consider the following tips to reduce your allergy symptoms:</b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Choose a smaller dog, which will shed less dander than will a larger dog.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep your pet out of your bedroom and other rooms in which you spend a lot of time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep your pet outside, if weather permits.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bathe your pet weekly to remove dander from its coat.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Choose carpet-free flooring, or shampoo your carpet regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier and vent filters to help reduce airborne pet allergens.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/expert-answers/hypoallergenic-dog-breeds/faq-20058425">Mayo Clinic</a></span></div>
JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-48712282375316972582018-11-17T13:13:00.000-08:002020-01-22T07:55:41.636-08:00How To Get Rid Of Mice With a Cat<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A Cat is the Best Natural Mouse Deterrent!!!</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are looking for a natural mouse deterrent, consider getting a cat. The great thing about having a cat is their very presence will help to keep the mice away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having a cat on your property is one of the most natural ways to get rid of mice since you are letting nature take care of itself. It’s the cycle of life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are thinking about getting a cat to use as a mouse deterrent – Read these tips so you know what to expect and make sure your cat knows how to hunt!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>How To Make Sure Your Cat Is An Effective Mouse Deterrent</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mice will build a home where they feel safe & secure. When they come into your home, they will look for an unoccupied area to live & breed. This may be in your walls, under the stove or in the attic. If they smell a cat in the area, they are very likely to find a better place to call home where they will not be hunted on a daily basis.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, just because you have a cat, this does not mean you will never have a mouse in your house again. There may be a place in your house that does not have the smell of your cat, so the mice may still come in. Or if food & shelter is very limited in your area, the mouse may consider your home to be the only option.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How To Select A Cat That Will Catch Mice</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First of all, not all cats are natural mousers. Ideally, you will be able to find a kitty that has lived for some time outside and knows how to hunt. If you live near a rural area, you can normally find barn cats looking for a good home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Talk to your local humane society or shelter. They will know the cat’s background and should be able to help you select the right cat for your home. A kitten would be sweet, but will not know how to hunt. If you have your heart set on getting a kitten, many shelters will have both the mother & kittens that are up for adoption. The mother will be able to teach the kitten how to hunt. Female cats are also rumored to be better mousers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some cats will actually ignore mice, especially cats which have always lived indoors & have not been exposed to any type of hunting games or toys. Yes, there are lazy cats, just like lazy dogs & lazy people~</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you already have a cat, but he/she doesn’t know how to hunt, they can still be an effective mouse deterrent. Consider encouraging your cat to visit the area where you have the most mice. You could give it a few treats in the kitchen or play a game in the basement where the mice are known to frequent. Cats love to brush up against objects, leaving their scent trail behind. If you can encourage your cat to do this where you also have mouse activity, the trail they leave behind will be a good mouse deterrent as well.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Does Your Cat Have The Play Or Kill Mindset?</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are some cats that will just want to play with the mouse. Be prepared to watch your cat toy with a mouse, over & over & over again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And they like to bring their toys home. You may find a dead mouse on your front porch or sometimes even in your house. A cat likes to bring its trophy home to his or her owner. They are very proud of their catch having sometimes been stalking them for days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And occasionally your cat will bring home a mouse that is still alive. The funniest thing I heard was a story from my neighbor. Her cat brought home a mouse that must have just been stunned. The cat had it in her mouth when it came back inside. My neighbor saw her cat with the mouse & screamed. The cat let go of the mouse & it ran straight under her cupboards.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make A Commitment To Your Cat</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Getting a cat is a commitment. You have to remember that you are getting a pet, a new family member, not just an in-house mouse killing machine. Do you have the time and energy to devote to your new cat? Do you know where the cat will live? You’ll need a place to keep the litter box, toys, scratching post, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cats don’t require as much attention as some other pets, but they still need to be loved & cared for. So while getting a cat is a wonderfully natural solution to getting rid of your mouse problem, please make sure you are willing to commit to their care. After all, he or she is working hard for you and deserves a good home!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://how-to-get-rid-of-mice.com/mouse-deterrent-cat/">How To Get Rid Of Mice Today!</a></span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-90444707137088878062018-10-25T10:17:00.001-07:002020-01-22T07:57:39.878-08:00How To Keep Your Pet Safe From Household Hazards<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every home contains a variety of everyday items and substances that can be dangerous or even fatal if ingested by dogs and cats. You can protect your pet’s health by becoming aware of the most common health hazards found in many pet-owning households.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Hazards in the Kitchen</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Foods</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many foods are perfectly safe for humans, but could be harmful or potentially deadly to pets. To be safe, keep the following food items out of your pet’s menu:Kitten sitting behind a hydrangea blossom</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Coffee grounds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Fatty foods</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Tea</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Chocolate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Avocado</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Yeast dough</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Grapes/raisins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Macadamia nuts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Onions</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Garlic</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Any products containing xylitol (an artificial sweetener)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Always keep garbage out of a pet’s reach, as rotting food contains molds or bacteria that could cause food poisoning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Cleaning Products</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many household cleaners can be used safely around pets. However, the key to safe use lies in reading and following product directions for proper use and storage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For instance, if the label states “keep pets and children away from area until dry”, follow those directions to prevent possible health risks. Products containing bleach can safely disinfect many household surfaces when used properly, but can cause stomach upset, drooling, vomiting or diarrhea, severe burns if swallowed, and respiratory tract irritation if inhaled in a high enough concentration. In addition, skin contact with concentrated solutions may produce serious chemical burns. Some detergents can produce a similar reaction and cats can be particularly sensitive to certain ingredients such as phenols.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a general rule, store all cleaning products in a secure cabinet out of the reach of pets and keep them in their original packaging, or in a clearly labeled and tightly sealed container.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Insecticides/Rodenticides</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As with household cleaners, read and follow label instructions before using any type of pesticide in your pet’s environment. For example, flea and tick products labeled “for use on dogs only” should never be used on cats or other species, as serious or even life-threatening problems could result. Always consult with your veterinarian about the safe use of these products for your pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If a pet ingests rat or mouse poison, potentially serious or even life-threatening illness can result; therefore, when using any rodenticide, it is important to place the poison in areas completely inaccessible to pets. Some of the newer rodenticides have no known antidote, and can pose significant safety risks to animals and people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Hazards in the Bathroom</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All medicines should be tightly closed and stored securely and away from pets.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Medications that treat human medical conditions can make pets very sick. Never give your pet any medication, including over-the-counter medications, unless directed by your veterinarian. As a rule, all medicines should be tightly closed and stored securely and away from pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Medications that pose higher risk include:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Acetaminophen</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Diet Pills/Vitamins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Cold Medicines</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Antihistamines</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Prescription Drugs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Antidepressants</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Soaps and other Sundries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bath and hand soaps, toothpaste and sun screens should also be kept away from your pets. They can cause stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea. Keep toilet lids closed to prevent your pets from consuming treated toilet bowl water that could irritate their digestive tract.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Hazards in the Bedroom & Living Room</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While they may smell good, many liquid potpourri products contain ingredients that can cause oral ulcerations and other problems, so keep them out of the reach of your pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just one mothball has the potential to sicken a dog or cat; mothballs that contain naphthalene can cause serious illness, including digestive tract irritation, liver, kidney and blood cell damage, swelling of the brain tissues, seizures, coma, respiratory tract damage (if inhaled) and even death (if ingested). Tobacco products, pennies (those minted after 1982 contain zinc) and alkaline batteries (like those in your remote controls) can also be hazardous when ingested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Hazards in the Garage & Yard</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Antifreeze, Herbicides and Insecticides</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ethylene glycol-containing antifreeze and coolants, even in small quantities, can be fatal to pets. While antifreeze products containing propylene glycol are less toxic than those containing ethylene glycol, they can still be dangerous. In addition to antifreeze, other substances routinely stored in the garage including insecticides, plant/lawn fertilizers, weed killers, ice-melting products, and gasoline also pose a threat to your pet’s health if ingested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When chemical treatments are applied to grassy areas, be sure and keep your pet off the lawn for the manufacturer’s recommended time. If pets are exposed to wet chemicals or granules that adhere to their legs or body, they may lick it off later; stomach upset or more serious problems could result.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Adhesives</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Polyurethane adhesives are found in a large number of household products, and some can be very dangerous if ingested by pets. In particular, several brands of expanding wood glues – those containing diphenylmethane diisocyanate (often abbreviated as MDI) – have the potential to form obstructive gastrointestinal masses if ingested. The ingested adhesive can form an expanding ball of glue in your pet’s esophagus and/or stomach, creating a firm mass that can be 4-8 times the glue’s original volume. This effect has been reported from as little as 2 oz. of glue, with the obstructive mass forming within minutes of the pet ingesting the adhesive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Paints and Solvents</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Paint thinners, mineral spirits, and other solvents are dangerous and can cause severe irritation or chemical burns if swallowed or if they come in contact with your pet’s skin.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While most latex house paints typically produce a minor stomach upset, some types of artist’s or other specialty paints may contain heavy metals or volatile substances that could become harmful if inhaled or ingested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Plants - Inside or Around the House</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are many household and yard plants that can sicken your pet. Some of the most commonly grown greenery that should be kept away from pets includes:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Certain types of lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are highly toxic to cats, resulting in kidney failure — even if only small amounts are ingested.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Lily of the Valley, oleander, yew, foxglove, and kalanchoe may cause heart problems if ingested.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Sago palms (Cycas species) can cause severe intestinal problems, seizures and liver damage, especially if the nut portion of the plant is consumed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Azaleas, rhododendrons and tulip/narcissus bulbs can cause intestinal upset, weakness, depression, heart problems, coma and death.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Castor bean can cause severe intestinal problems, seizures, coma, and death. Other plants that can cause intestinal upset include cyclamen, amaryllis, chrysanthemums, pothos, English ivy, philodendron, corn plant, mother-in-law’s tongue, hibiscus, hydrangea, peace lily and schefflera/scheffleria.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Rhubarb leaves and shamrock contain substances that can produce kidney failure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">•Additionally, fungi (such as certain varieties of mushrooms) can cause liver damage or other illnesses.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few other potentially harmful plants include the yesterday-today-and-tomorrow plant (Brunfelsia species), autumn crocus (Colchicum species), and glory lily (Gloriosa species).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Other Household Hazards</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Small items that fall on the floor can be easily swallowed by a curious pet. Such items include coins, buttons, small children’s toys, medicine bottles, jewelry, nails and screws. The result may be damage to your pet’s digestive tract and the need for surgical removal of the object.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While electrical cords are especially tempting to puppies, ferrets and pet rodents who like to chew on almost anything, even an adult dog or cat could find them of interest; burns or electrocution could result from chewing on live cords. Prevent this by using cord covers and blocking access to wires.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>A note about narcotics</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Narcotics, including marijuana, can pose life-threatening risks to your pets if ingested. If you suspect your pet has ingested any narcotics, please notify your veterinarian immediately so your pet can receive the life-saving treatment they need.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Holiday Hazards</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Holidays and visitors can pose a special challenge to your pets. Discourage well-meaning guests from spoiling pets with extra treats and scraps from the dinner table. Fatty, rich, or spicy foods can cause vomiting and diarrhea and lead to inflammation of the pancreas, which can be life-threatening. Poultry or other soft bones can splinter and damage your pet’s mouth or esophagus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While trick-or-treating is fun for children, it can be hazardous to pets. Halloween treats such as chocolate or candy sweetened with xylitol can make a harmful snack. Certain holiday decorations (especially tinsel, ribbons and ornaments) also pose a hazard to pets, so make sure nothing is left on the floor or on tables within reach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">String-like items can damage your pet’s intestine and could prove fatal if not surgically removed. While poinsettia is not deadly as popular legend would have it, it could still cause an upset stomach if consumed. Holly and mistletoe are more toxic than poinsettias and can cause intestinal upset. Christmas tree water treated with preservatives (including fertilizers) can also cause an upset stomach. Water that is allowed to stagnate in tree stands contains bacteria that, if ingested, could lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>A Special Note of Caution to Bird Owners</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most hazards listed here also apply to your pet bird, particularly if it is allowed to roam freely outside of its cage. In addition, birds are especially vulnerable to inhaled particles and fumes from aerosol products, tobacco products, certain glues, paints and air fresheners. Birds should never be allowed in areas where such products are being used. As a rule, birds should never be kept in kitchens because cooking fumes, smoke and odors can present a potentially fatal hazard.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What to do if your pet is poisoned</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don’t wait! Time is critical for successfully treating accidental poisoning. Pick up the phone and call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435; a consultation fee may apply). Be prepared to provide your pet’s breed, age, weight and any symptoms. Keep the product container or plant sample with you to assist in identification so the appropriate treatment recommendations can be made.</span><br />
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-37353097875301420532018-10-24T10:01:00.002-07:002020-01-22T07:58:30.253-08:00How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Winter<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If its 32 degrees or below, limit time for animals to be outside. Keep pets inside for the bulk of day and if anything at the very least overnight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Know when winter gear is actually necessary. If your town is known for salting or using de-icer on the streets and sidewalks during winter it might be wise to invest in some doggie booties. However if anything clean your pet's paws with some luke warm warm and apply some paw palm. Jackets and sweaters are cute but should only be use on dog with short coats otherwise it's rather pointless. Most dogs will develop a winter coat before it gets too cold, specifically dogs use to being outdoors for a extended period of time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monitor working dogs, puppies and older dogs that are primarily outside for long periods or live in outdoor kennels. Ensure outdoor dogs have access to warmth when its really cold. Be it a daft-less covered sheltered with hay for insulation or inside a heated area.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ensure outdoor cats have access to a safe, warm shelter. Ensure there is adequate drinking supply for outdoor cats 24/7. Always bank on you car hood or physically check under you car hood to ensure a cat has not decided to use the area to keep warm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make sure indoor cats stay indoor. If let outside strictly indoor cats ca get confused, freak out and get lost. Which goes to say always make sure your pet has a identification tag and is micro-chipped.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prepare your pooch for long hikes. Ensure you have enough fresh water and food for both you and you pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Store antifreeze in a secure place and if you have a spill near your vehicle, clean up immediately with absorbent material like cat litter. Antifreeze is poisonous to animals!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't feed pets holiday dinner scraps. Some foods are poisonous. Fatty foods can give pets upset stomachs and bones can get stuck in their thoughts or perforate their digestive tract.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep decorations out of pet's reach. Poinsettias are toxic and garland, strings and tinsel can cause gastrointestinal obstruction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ensure your pet is comfortable around people. Have a quiet place set up away from people for pets with anxiety. Make sure your pet does not boly out the door while guests are going in and out of your house.</span><br />
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<br />JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-21507964482157819972018-10-23T09:04:00.001-07:002020-01-22T07:58:49.654-08:00Hazards for Pets During the Fall Season<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">School begins so watch for glue sticks, paint, pencils and crayons that can be toxic to your pets. Ensure these items are stowed in a high shelf/cabinet space where your pets cannot reach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When changing fluids such as antifreeze in your vehicle, clean up any mess thorughly and ensure vehicle fluids like antifreeze are stowed away from pets and children. Stow in a locked cabinet if need be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch out for wild mushrooms growing from all the fall moisture. Although some are edible, many mushroom varieties can be poisonous to people and pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If putting out poisons for pesky critters like rodents and insects ensure your pet cannot get into it nor eat the poisoned animal left behind. Dispose of used traps and dead bugs and rodents immediately in a trash can with a lid.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During holidays ensure pets keep away from candy, cooked bones and fatty foods which can wreak havoc in your pet's stomach and may even have the potential to cause death.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ensure electrical wires, plastics, sharp objects and glass are kept far away and out of reach of pets and children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If needed, use flea, tick and heartworm medicine all year round and not just in the Fall.</span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-14768441639690158832018-10-18T09:41:00.000-07:002020-01-22T07:59:01.449-08:00Halloween Safety Tips for Pets<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The following tips will help make sure pets have just as happy a Halloween as everyone else.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Chocolate and candies can be toxic to pets. Be sure to keep candy out of your pet's reach during and after the festivities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Bring all pets indoors before the trick-or-treating begins. Outdoor cats and dogs left in the backyard can fall victim to Halloween pranks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Make sure your pet has proper ID tags and is microchipped in case they get separated from you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•If your pet is wary of strangers or people in costumes, keep your pet away from the front door and trick-or-treaters. Putting your pet in another room during trick-or-treating hours may provide a safe hiding place and reduce your pet's stress level.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Keep pumpkins with candles, wires, and cords from holiday decorations out of your pet's reach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Halloween plants such as pumpkins and corn can give your pet a stomach ache. Although these plants are non-toxic, they can certainly make your pet uncomfortable if ingested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•Don't force your pets to wear costumes if it is not clear he or she enjoys being dressed up. It can cause undue stress.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">•If your pet is going to wear a costume, make sure it doesn't restrict their ability to move, see, breathe, bark, or meow. Equally important, make sure there are no small pieces on the costume that your pet can chew and swallow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As for trick-or-treaters, be cautious about approaching animals you or your children don't know--especially during Halloween.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If anyone comes across an animal that appears to be acting abnormally or if an animal bites a human, be sure to call Animal Control or 911 immediately.</span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-40717760468524135232018-10-13T13:38:00.000-07:002020-01-22T07:59:12.628-08:00Things You Need to Know About Protecting Your Pet After You Die<ol style="background-color: #fcfcfc; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 18px; font-variant-ligatures: common-ligatures; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin: 1.6rem 0px; padding-left: 0px;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">Pets are tangible property</strong>. In most states, pets fall into the same category as your car, furniture and jewelry. While they mean so much more to us than that, the law looks at them as an object. Since the law regards pets as possessions, ownership of them is typically transferred in a will along with the artwork and household furnishings.</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">Choose a caretaker wisely. </strong>Most people leave their pets to a child or immediate family member who will happily take care of the pet without additional monies left expressly for that purpose. If you don’t have a close family member to take your pet, consider leaving them to a friend, neighbor or other more distant relative. One of my elderly clients is leaving her pet to her dog walker who has already agreed to take the dog. Other clients, who have no one to take their pets, have left them to the local humane society or pet shelter with a substantial donation.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">Follow the money.</strong> Some clients will leave an outright gift of a certain dollar amount. The money is intended to be used to care for the pet, but often there is no requirement that the person use the money for the pet. Be aware that second cousin Lester could take your cat Puff and the money, but then drop Puff off at a shelter the next day. You can condition the cash gift to Lester on his keeping Puff, but who is going to police that? And how do you ensure the level of care that Puff receives? A pet trust is the best way to prevent this scenario from happening.</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">Creating a pet trust</strong>. Many states allow for pet trusts. You create a trust and on your death transfer ownership of the pet and cash to the trustee. The trustee then has to use the cash to care for the pet. On the animal’s death, the remaining assets are distributed in accordance with your written instructions in the trust. The trustee cannot use the trust assets for himself, although he can take a fee.</span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box; list-style: decimal; margin-block-end: 0px; margin-block-start: 0px; margin-left: 3em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">Don’t leave your pet too much money.</strong> If you do, the court may reduce the amount of money held in trust for the pet’s benefit. Courts do not like to see folks punishing their heirs by leaving all the money to the dog. Example: the story of Leona Helmsley, the New York hotel heiress who left the bulk of her $12 million estate to her little white Maltese named Trouble? Helmsley was dubbed the “Queen of Mean” for disinheriting family members and leaving so much to a dog instead of family members or charities. A judge later reduced Trouble’s trust to $2 million, but Trouble still lived out her life in the lap of luxury with round-the-clock care and a security guard in Florida (there were kidnapping threats). The cost of her care was reportedly $100,000 per year.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most pets do not need hundred of thousands of dollars per year for care. A much smaller amount will often suffice. And when the pet passes away, the rest can go to your family members, or better yet, to your local pet shelter or humane society.</span></div>
JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-30544658331686883142018-10-05T19:47:00.000-07:002020-01-22T07:59:54.585-08:00Flying with Your Pets<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Do you have to fly with your pets? Consider alternatives, if possible—whether it’s traveling by car or, for shorter trips, finding a good sitter or boarding kennel.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Make sure you research online about airline polices and airline traveler consumer reports</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3.</span></span><span style="color: #63615a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most airlines require a health certificate for animals, usually required within 10 days before travel. This is also a good time to ensure your pets are up for the trip, that their vaccinations are up to date and that they don't have any illnesses that could be made worse by heat or stress.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #63615a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some pets have may have breathing issues that make travel more risky. That’s why some airlines have placed restrictions on flying with brachycephalic (flat-faced) animals such as pugs, bulldogs and Persian cats.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #63615a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Practice with your pet in crate and/or carrier training to ensure they are comfortable in a small space for a extended period of time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #63615a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Navigate the airport especially know security guidelines. If your pets aren’t traveling with you in the cabin, you should still find a way to keep tabs on them—especially in the event of delays or transfers. Check on their status with a gate agent or airline employee.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #63615a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Don't overlook the destination. If you’re flying internationally, or even to Hawaii, your pets may need to be quarantined upon arrival. They may also require import forms. Familiarize yourself with the requirements, where they’ll be quarantined and for how long.</span>Make sure your pets are wearing collars and identification, that their microchip information is up to date, and that you have current photos, just in case they go missing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy your flight and be safe!</span></div>
JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-55424539277147040202018-09-24T09:16:00.000-07:002020-01-22T08:00:16.715-08:00How Technology Has Improved How We Care For Our Pets <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are no upgrades for pets per se. Our pets do not change. How we as humans bond with animals will not change. However as society becomes more immersed in technology as times goes on we see improvement on how we care for our pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With more accurate testing and treatment for disease as well as advancements in the animal surgery realm our pets are living healthier and longer. Microchips have helped reunite lost pets with their owners. Vaccines have prevent disease from running rampant in our pets.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Internet has become a excellent tool for accessing pet information and products. A pet owner can now in a instant order medications, obtain pet insurance and find out about pet-friendly accommodations. Not to mention the plethora of pet products from toys for entertainment, quality food brands and pet boutiques galore to dress up your pet.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">People can give their pets personal and Internet fame. Blogs, Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms have given rise to the Internet-famous pets and pet viral videos. After all who doesn't like a cute pet and their antics?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However the Internet has a dark side as well. People seem to seek advice from the general public about the health of their pet. Asking advice about your pets health from a random stranger is dangerous. Often home remedies are recommended in which case one should never give a pet herbal remedies without consulting a veterinarian first in person. Anyone can say they are a expert on the Internet but in reality the only expert you should ever listen to is your local veterinarian. Ill-given advice from the Internet (intentional or unintentional) can endanger your pet's health or even cause death. Be careful out there on the wide-world web.</span></span><br />
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<br />JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-48690632222128054692018-09-19T08:03:00.001-07:002020-01-22T08:38:07.878-08:00How to Help Animals Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>How to Help Animals Right Now</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make toys, homes or bed for shelter/rescue animals.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Donate items such as old blankets/towels, pet food, leashes, collars, carriers, pet bowls/dishes and first aid supplies. As well as: Distilled water, bleach, laundry detergent, dish soap, paper towels, trash bags, AA,AAA and D batteries, cotton balls, Ziploc bags (all sizes), disinfecting wipes, sanitizer, lint rollers, Kleenex and house training</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> pads</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Volunteer at you local animal shelters/rescues.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sign petitions for animal welfare.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spread the word. Learn to speak up for animals. Hang up fliers. Share adoption profiles on social media.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Start a campaign, donation drive and/or fundraiser.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Foster a animal.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adopt a pet.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be a responsible pet owner.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shop cruelty-free.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Report any and</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> all suspected animal abuse and neglect.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Teach kindness, respect, compassion and responsibility to animals to others.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Help stray pets: Try to find the owner</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and take to the shelter.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Donate money funds to shelters.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sponsor</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> an animal.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Offer transportation.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Support pet-friendly businesses and companies that give back and support animal welfare.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Offer free grooming for pets.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Train local shelter pets.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spay and neuter your pets as well as start a trap-neuter return program for local stray cats and dogs.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Support and thank shelter volunteers.</span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-71824642392952785592018-09-17T07:49:00.000-07:002020-01-22T08:38:29.513-08:00Pet Safety and Natural Disasters<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>The most important things to do for your pet during iminent natural disasters:</b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Get and ID tag containing your current info (name, address, phone number) and attach to your pets collar (opt for a neon colored collar so your pet can be easier to see!). Ensure your pet wears that collar at all times. A pet with an ID tag indicates to emergency crews that your animal is a pet that belongs to a family and not wild, which could mean the difference between getting rescued or not.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Get your pet microshipped and up-to-date on vaccinations.Because an ID tag can come off or become damaged during an emergency, you also need to get your pet microchipped. A microchip can be inserted under your pet's skin by your veterinarian. To be effective, the microchip must be registered to the pet's owner so he or she can be contacted in the event the animal is lost. Keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date to reduce their risk of illness. If you are evacuated, your pet may not be able to come with you to a shelter and may be held in boarding with other animals whose health status is unknown.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have a photo or several photos of your pet on hand for proof of ownership and accurate identification of your pet. It would be a good idea to have a document on hand pointing out identifiable special color markings or scars that will help identify your pet as well. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have a first-aid/emergency kit on hand for your pet. Any emergency kit made for humans can be utilized for your pet as well. Also include your pet's paperwork. Make copies of your pet’s immunization records, microchip information and vet and emergency contact numbers. Include this paperwork in your emergency kit.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If at all possible never leave your pet behind! Try to bring your pets with you or plan somewhere you can temporarily house your pet be it with relatives/friends or a boarding facilities away from the natural disaster zone. If you have not other choice but to leave you pet behind make sure plenty of food and water is left behind and post a flyer outside your house that their are pets inside. Never leave your pet in a cage, locked up in a room or tied up! Give a chance for your pet to escape if need be leave a window open, gate open or have a accessible doggy door.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If your pet goes missing during a natural disaster, it’s important that you don’t endanger yourself looking for your pet. Avoid going outside or far from home if the conditions outside are unmanageable or downright dangerous. Instead, check sites like Nextdoor, Craigslist, Facebook groups or PetFinder – to see if anyone has found your pet. Next, call or visit your local shelters and veterinarian clinics in case your pet was dropped off by an emergency crew or Good Samaritan.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Pets are often overlooked or abandoned during natural disasters because they don’t have the proper identification or paperwork. Because natural disasters can happen any time and with little warning, plan for your pet as you would for any member of your household. Doing so could mean the difference between your pet staying with you during an emergency or getting left behind.</b></span>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-22019175013536687712018-09-13T09:21:00.000-07:002020-01-22T08:38:47.576-08:00What You Should Do With Your Pets During A Hurricane<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before You Evacuate</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Check in with your vet. Ensure you have copies of your pet's records and proof of vaccinations. Make sure to have a 2-3 week supply of any medication your pet mat take. It's a good idea to have your pet microshipped and has a current ID tag and rabies vacination tag.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Put together a pet emergency kit. Include food, water, leashes, carriers and picture to establish ownership and accurate pet identification.</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Where To Go</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Seek out a pet-friendly boarding place since unfortunately most evacuation shelters do not take pets.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Consider places that will take you and your pets. Check out sites like BringFido.com, GoPetFriendly.Com and PetsWelcome.com</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If You Have To Let Your Pet Stay At Home</span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not confine them or have them tied up. Leave plenty of food and water for your pets. Post a note outside your house that there are pets inside.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not abandon your pets! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Make it easy for your pets/livestock to ride out the storm. Prepare shelters and possible escape routes for your pets/livestock if need be</span></li>
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-31848457536372697882018-08-29T10:39:00.000-07:002020-01-22T08:39:33.816-08:00Are you spending too much money on your pets?<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>First of all, most pet owners consider their cats or dogs a bona fide member of the family</b>. This is especially true with millennials. In fact, 1/3 of millennial-aged Americans (ages 18 to 36) who purchased their first home say the desire to have a better space or yard for a dog influenced their decision to purchase their first home. This is according to a 2017 survey from SunTrust Mortgage, a division of SunTrust Banks, Inc. Dogs ranked among the top three motivators for first-time home purchasers and were cited by more millennials than marriage/upcoming marriage, 25 %, or the birth/expected birth of a child, 19 %.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Millennials have strong bonds with their dogs, so it makes sense that their furry family members are driving home-buying decisions,” says Dorinda Smith, SunTrust Mortgage President and CEO. “For those with dogs, renting can be more expensive and a hassle; home ownership takes some of the stress off by providing a better living situation.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also, the sheer numbers explain our obsession with our pets. According to the 2017-2018 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey, 68 percent of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 84.6 millions homes. Of those pets, dogs are number one, with more than 60 million households having a dog, followed by a cat—47 million households.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Given how highly we regard our pets, it makes sense that so many of us want to pamper our pets. I know from my online business how many Americans celebrate their dog’s birthday each year and want to be able to throw them a birthday party with a dog-themed cake and dog bone shaped birthday candles. The ornate cake at the top of this article was made using our pit bull cake pan and professionally baked and decorated by one of our dog bakery customers, the Happy Dog Barkery in Downers Grove, Illinois. Soon our online store will introduce cat-themed cake pans and birthday candles for those 47 million households with cats that might want to celebrate their cat’s birthday. This will be part of our Kittieware line.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is part of the reason that dog bakeries—or barkeries—are popping up all over the place and chowing down the profits. In a recent Voice of America article, Nicki Dobson of Three Dog Bakery in Kansas City, Missouri, explains how pet owners buy treats for their pups as they might ice cream for their children—and, by the way, there is dog ice cream on the market: “We have dogs come in every week,” Dobson said in that article. “Their dog needs a cookie every night. We have people who drop $50 to $75 on [dog] pastries every week.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In addition to pet-themed bakeries, there are pet spas, pet-oriented restaurant franchises, hotels with pet programs and cat-friendly AirBnB locations. Even automotive brands are marketing to pet lovers, with vehicles with pet-specific features.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can tell you that in some instances, when we choose brands that we give our business to as a family, we might base our decision on how pet-facing a business is. For example, if a bank doesn’t give out treats at the drive-through window, I find myself thinking, Why not?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you love your subscription boxes? Well, dogs and puppies can get them now. You can even dress your pup up in your favorite college or professional team’s sports gear so your pet is in the spirit when you sit down to watch the big game.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And many pet parents include their pups in Halloween celebrations, too. According to Pet Products News, millions will dress their pets up for Halloween. One statistic said that for every $3 parents spend on costumes for children, they’ll spend $1 on a costume for their pet. <a href="https://parade.com/696544/leahingram/heres-how-americans-are-pampering-their-pets/">PARADE</a></span><br />
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<b>More and more American families own pets.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A recent study says that 85 million families in the United States own a pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The American Pet Products Association’s study for the years 2017-2018 says that represents 68 percent of all families in the U.S.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thirty years ago, when the study was first done, 56 percent of families owned a pet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The survey found dogs are the most popular pets. Sixty-point-two percent of homes own one. Cats are the second most popular with 47.1 percent of families reporting they had a cat. Freshwater fish came in third with 12.5 percent.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nicki Dobson is head of marketing and communication for Three Dog Bakery. The business calls itself the "original bakery for dogs." She said pets have become especially popular among Americans in the past 10 years.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She said, "People are having more pets and less children. People are concerned about what they eat. Our whole premise was trying to make things with human-grade ingredients and a focus on nutrition. They look like human food, but they're meant for pets."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another company, Posh Puppy Boutique, sells clothes, jewelry and other items for dogs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are also pet hotels and pet health centers. One study found that Americans spend about $126 each month on their pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Three Dog Bakery opened in 1989. Dobson says there are now 45 bakeries around the world, including in Canada and China. She said cakes are the most popular item. She added that some people pay $50-75 on baked goods each week for their pets.</span><br />
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<b>Pets rather than children?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some younger Americans seem to be choosing pets over having children. Some are making big life decisions, such as buying a home, around the lives of their pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The SunTrust banking company did a study in 2017 of people under the age of 40 buying their first home. The study found that 33 percent said a good yard or good space for their pets influenced them to buy a new home. Only 25 percent said marriage was a reason, and 19 percent said the birth of a child.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some companies now offer pet benefits such as pet insurance. They are also offering "pawternity" leave, which gives workers free time to spend with their new pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dobson noted that taking dogs to work is now popular in places that permit it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Americans' love for their pets is even influencing their travel plans. A recent survey found that 49 percent of pet owners have not left the country since owning their pet. Sixty-eight percent of those said it was because they feel guilty leaving their pets alone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Health experts say pets can improve the health of their owners. The American-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says pets can reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels and feelings of loneliness.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The CDC adds that pets also offer chances for outdoor exercise and socialization with other people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/americans-spending-and-doing-more-for-their-pets/4523024.html">Americans Spending and Doing More for Their Pets </a></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The American Pet Products Association (APPA) provides periodic updates on how much money U.S. citizens spend on their beloved pets each year. While spending for 2017 was estimated to reach $69.35 billion, Americans surpassed that estimate by a few million dollars.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> According to new annual industry-wide spending figures announced at this year’s Global Pet Expo held in Orlando, Florida, Americans spent a total of $69.51 billion on their pets in 2017.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> These statistics mean that 2017 pet spending outpaced 2016 pet spending by nearly $3 billion, showing 4 percent growth in the pet market.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> "Talk to any pet owner and they'll tell you how difficult it is to put a dollar limit on what they'd spend to give their loyal companion a happy life,” APPA president and CEO Bob Vetere said, “and it's this outlook that continues to drive growth."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> When it comes to what pet owners are spending their hard-earned dollars on, though, pet food reigned supreme, followed by pet supplies and over-the-counter medications, veterinary care, live animal purchases and other miscellaneous services.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over the course of one year, growth was experienced in each of these five categories except for live animal purchases — which remained the same between 2016 and 2017.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"It's incredible to not only see growth for the pet industry in general but to experience growth across all categories with the exception of 'live animal purchases,’" Vetere said.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The good news is that veterinary care spending continues to grow year-over-year, showing a 7 percent increase from 2016. According to APPA analysts, this category is expected to continue on the same upward trajectory with 6.9 percent growth projected for 2018.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The category that experienced the most growth between 2016 and 2017 was ‘other services,’ which includes grooming, boarding, walking, training, pet sitting, yard services and more. This grouping is up 6.9 percent from 2016, coming in at $6.16 billion spent in 2017.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> "The industry is moving beyond simply the humanization of pets to where they are now widely accepted as part of the pet owner's lifestyle," Vetere said. "No matter the primary cause of increased spending on pets, be it enhanced nutrition, better healthcare, increased pampering, or greater technology, the one thing we know for sure is that pet owners have a top priority in pursuing longer, healthier lives for their pets.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://www.vmdtoday.com/news/american-pet-spending-reaches-new-high">American Pet Spending Reaches New High</a></span></div>
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-51302323981844848932018-08-27T08:54:00.000-07:002020-01-22T08:41:54.767-08:00Should you get pet insurance? Probably a good idea.....<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>As Veterinary Bills Add Up, More Pet Owners Opt for Insurance</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Annual premiums last year totaled $1 billion, with 1.83 million pets insured</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Insurers tend to focus on the two most popular companion animals, dogs and cats, though more exotic animals may also be covered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Insurers tend to focus on the two most popular companion animals, dogs and cats, though more exotic animals may also be covered.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two out of three American households—or about 85 million homes—own pets, and those lovable little roommates don’t come cheap.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Americans spent $17 billion last year on veterinary care alone, according to figures published by the American Pet Product Association. Per pet, that included $257 for the routine care of dogs and $182 for cats.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But accidents or illness can balloon costs, and to offset the expense, more households have turned to pet insurance, a niche product that for the first time last year grossed $1 billion in annual premiums.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Compared with auto, home and human health coverage, pet insurance is the runt of the litter. But that puppy’s growing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last year’s gross annual premiums were 23% higher than the previous year, when the total was $837 million, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association. The number of insured pets also increased, climbing to 1.83 million last year, up about 16% from the previous year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That’s only 1% of dogs and cats, but insurers expect the expansion to continue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Twelve million puppies and kittens come into the world every year,” said Rob Jackson, chief executive officer of the pet insurer Healthy Paws. “There’s still great room to grow.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One yardstick to assess the potential is the United Kingdom., where a quarter of cats and dogs are insured, according to Laura Bennett, a pet insurance actuary and fellow of the Society of Actuaries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Although animals that are more exotic than cats and dogs may be covered, insurers tend to focus on the two most popular companion animals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In 2017, Americans owned 94.2 million cats and 89.7 million dogs, accounting for nearly half of all household pets, according to the pet product association.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(America’s 393 million pets also included other small animals, horses, birds, reptiles and fish. At 139 million, freshwater fish was the single largest category, accounting for 35% of the total. But come on. If you can’t cuddle it, is it really a pet?)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Insurance to offset the cost of veterinary care is a hybrid product. Like health insurance, it typically covers accidents and illnesses, but because pets are possessions, it is technically property and casualty insurance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That’s the kind that’s purchased for homes and cars, but there’s a wrinkle: With car insurance, drivers don’t assume it’s OK to get into more accidents. Pet insurance may inspire a different response.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“If I go out and adopt a dog and buy an insurance policy, you don’t know how I’m going to behave,” Ms. Bennett said. “Will I go to the vet every time the dog coughs? You don’t know.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">About a dozen companies sell pet insurance in the U.S. The largest, in order of market share, are Nationwide, Trupanion and Healthy Paws.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Each is relatively new to the scene. Trupanion began selling pet insurance in the U.S. in 2008. In 2009, Nationwide acquired Veterinary Pet Insurance, which had been around since 1980. And Healthy Paws started in 2010.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are no standardized actuarial tables to guide pet insurers in setting premiums. Each group crafts its own, often with the help of pet actuaries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Trupanion, which insures 472,000 pets and employs four credentialed actuaries, bases its rates on characteristics such as pet breed and age—like other companies—along with details gleaned from the 1 million-plus claims the company has processed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Among the lessons it has learned over the years is that different breeds have different health concerns.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Golden retrievers are prone to cancers more so than other dogs that are otherwise comparable,” said T.J. Houk, Trupanion’s chief data officer and actuary. “Other breeds of a similar size have their own issues.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That kind of information influences premiums, as does a pet’s place of residence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“In New York there’s a very different level of available care than in most of the rest of country,” Mr. Houk said. “You see significantly higher prices there.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With a $200 deductible, premiums for a mixed breed puppy in Manhattan would cost $76, Mr. Houk said. In Mobile, Ala., the same pet with the same coverage would cost $34.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Premiums also vary depending on a policy’s deductible, but in general, monthly pet insurance payments range from $25 to $150.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One reason for the growing appeal of pet insurance is the availability of increasingly sophisticated and expensive treatments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“The cost of routine care is not going up,” Mr. Jackson said. “Where you find increases is in specialty care. That’s where you get the sticker shock.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A torn cranial cruciate ligament, which is often referred to as a dog’s ACL, is an example of a common ailment that now has a variety of advanced treatment options with price tags to match.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“The old treatment was to repair the ligament for around $1,200,” Mr. Jackson said. “Now, you can set the bone, put a plate in there, and for $4,500, the knee is as good as new. It’s the same condition but a new way to treat it.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And, if you choose to buy pet insurance, a new way to pay for it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/as-veterinary-bills-add-up-more-pet-owners-opt-for-insurance-1535108400">Wall Street Journal</a></span><br />
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JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-59442999205150681322018-08-20T08:36:00.001-07:002020-01-22T08:42:08.789-08:00So Why You Should Adopt a Pet From a Animal Shelter?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You save a life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You help break the cycle of pet overpopulation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You take advantage of adopting an adult animal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You help stio cruelty in mass breeding facilities (puppy mills and backyard breeders).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You get to choose from a wide-range of adoptable pets.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You get a lifetime resource with shelter and volunteers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You support a valuable charity and community isntitutuion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You pay less (low adoptions fees, spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You adopt a pet who has recieved good care.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By adopting an animal from a shelter you encourage others to adopt from shelters as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Adopting a pet is good for your overall health.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Adopting one animal helps other animals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Social meda bragging rights (I just adopted a pet from a shelter selfie!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most pets from animal shelters are already hosuetrained.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A shelter pet will always be there for you.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.cleartheshelters.com/">#ClearTheShelters</a></div>
JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-61444776557525338452018-08-17T08:56:00.002-07:002020-01-22T08:44:13.017-08:00So you want your pet to be a vegan?<br />
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<strong><span class="image-source-caption story lead-image"><figcaption class="image-caption" data-e2e-name="image-caption" style="display: inline !important;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you're going to put your pet on a vegan diet, there are some things you need to know.</span></figcaption></span></strong></h1>
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<li><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some people who are vegan want to put their pets on vegan diets too.</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's easier for dogs to be <a href="https://www.thisisinsider.com/health-risks-going-vegan-unhealthy-2018-7"> vegans</a> than cats.</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cats only eat meat, so they require strict supplements to sustain their nutritional needs.</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are companies that make vegan pet food, and you can even make your own.</span></strong></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>But it's a lot of work to make sure your pet is getting what it needs, so make sure it's worth it for you</strong>. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /> In recent years, there's been an uptick in interest around <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2018/feb/02/the-owners-putting-pets-on-vegan-diets-we-feed-our-animals-without-exploiting-others"> putting dogs and cats on a vegetarian or vegan diet</a>.But not everyone is in agreement about whether vegan diets are acceptable for cats and dogs, especially since both species have very specific nutritional needs. If you want your pet to go vegan, here's what you need to know.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vegan diets affect cats and dogs differently.</span></strong></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cats are strict carnivores. Cats could live on meat only; dogs actually need both.</span><div class="ad ad-wrapper postload in-post" data-adunit="insider/desktop/health/post" data-amazontamsizes="[[300,120],[300,250],[728,90]]" data-authors="martha-sorren" data-bi-ad="" data-force="" data-pagetype="post" data-pos="atf" data-region="Desktop In Post Ad" data-responsive="[{"browserLimit":[0,0],"slotSize":[[300,120],[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[728,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[768,0],"slotSize":[[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[1240,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"location":"inline"}]" data-tag="freelancer,vegan-diet,veganism,dogs,cats,pets,evergreen-story" data-type="ad" data-url="can-your-pet-be-vegan-2018-8" data-views="" id="ad-89161">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Because of the differences in diet, it's a lot more challenging for a cat to eat a vegan diet than a dog. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dogs may not get all the nutrients that they need. For cats, a vegan diet does not actually have everything that they need to stay healthy. Making your pet go began is just not a good idea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> The <a href="https://www.aspca.org/news/why-cant-my-cat-be-vegan"> ASPCA</a> agrees with this sentiment, and its website states, "It is possible — though challenging — to keep dogs healthy on a plant-based diet, [but] a vegan diet is not appropriate for cats at all." </b></span></span></section><section class="post-content typography " data-post-type="post" data-track-content=""><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> This is because cats can develop heart issues if they're not eating enough<b> taurine</b>, which is only found in animal by-products and not in plants, according to the ASPCA. </span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are some advocates for vegan pet diets.</span></strong></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch told INSIDER in a statement: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> "A nutritionally balanced vegan diet can offer dogs and cats health benefits, such as healthier skin and coats, cleaner teeth, better digestion, easier weight management, and better protection against diseases." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> There have also been studies that show the benefits of veganism for pets. A 2014 Austrian study of 174 dog owners reported that <a href="https://www.vetmeduni.ac.at/hochschulschriften/diplomarbeiten/AC12256171.pdf"> 38 owners said their pets had healthier and shinier coats after eating vegan food</a>. A blood test of 20 dogs found that their vitals were all normal even on a vegan diet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Just a FYI.....DO NOT TRUST PETA!!!</b></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You'll need to know your supplements.</span></strong></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Both species need supplements to maintain a vegan diet. Notably, <a href="https://www.peta.org/about-peta/faq/is-it-safe-to-feed-my-dog-or-cat-a-vegetarian-diet/"> dogs need taurine and L-carnitine and cats need vitamin A, taurine, and arachidonic acid</a>, according to PETA. (PETA is actually right on this fact.)</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> CNN also reported that <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/LIVING/03/10/vegan.dog.diet/index.html"> dogs require higher protein intake than humans</a>. And since cats subsist only on meat, they also require high levels of protein. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">FAILURE TO SUPPLY YOUR PETS WITH ALL THEIR REQUIRED NUTRIENTS CAN LEAD TO FATAL DISEASES! IN TURN YOU CAN BE CHARGED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY IF YOUR PET GETS INADEQUATE NUTRITION!</span></b></h3>
<div class="ad ad-wrapper postload in-post" data-adunit="insider/desktop/health/post" data-amazontamsizes="[[300,120],[300,250],[728,90]]" data-authors="martha-sorren" data-bi-ad="" data-force="" data-pagetype="post" data-pos="atf" data-region="Desktop In Post Ad" data-responsive="[{"browserLimit":[0,0],"slotSize":[[300,120],[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[728,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[768,0],"slotSize":[[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[1240,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"location":"inline"}]" data-tag="freelancer,vegan-diet,veganism,dogs,cats,pets,evergreen-story" data-type="ad" data-url="can-your-pet-be-vegan-2018-8" data-views="" id="ad-68020">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> If you're considering a vegan diet for your pet, it's important to consult your veterinarian and purchase powder supplements or vegan pet food supplements. Also make sure you do extensive research on any and all supplements.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are several vegan pet food brands on the market.</span></strong></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> In addition to supplements, you can cook vegan food for your pets yourself or purchase them from vendors. PETA recommends brands like <a href="http://www.amipetfood.com/en/start">Amì</a>, <a href="http://www.vegancats.com/">F & O Alternative Pet Products</a>, and <a href="http://www.v-dogfood.com/">V-dog</a>, Be sure to check the ingredient list closely to see which nutrients your pet still may need to have a balanced diet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> PETA recommends you add small amounts of the new vegan food to their normal diet and slowly scaling back on the meat until they're eating only vegan foods. </span><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Do your research before trusting anything that PETA says.........</span></b></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are better alternatives for your pet than a fully vegan diet.</span></strong></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You do not have to use commercial dog or cat food. You can make do with homemade diets that you can make that are balanced … There are veterinarians that do nutrition that can put together a recipe for you that is nutritionally sound. Always ask advice from your veterinarian before starting your pet on a new diet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Contact your vet to ask if they provide that service or if they can recommend someone who does. </span><br />
</span><div class="ad ad-wrapper postload in-post" data-adunit="insider/desktop/health/post" data-amazontamsizes="[[300,120],[300,250],[728,90]]" data-authors="martha-sorren" data-bi-ad="" data-force="" data-pagetype="post" data-pos="atf" data-region="Desktop In Post Ad" data-responsive="[{"browserLimit":[0,0],"slotSize":[[300,120],[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[728,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[768,0],"slotSize":[[300,250],"fluid"]},{"browserLimit":[1240,0],"slotSize":[[728,90],"fluid"]},{"location":"inline"}]" data-tag="freelancer,vegan-diet,veganism,dogs,cats,pets,evergreen-story" data-type="ad" data-url="can-your-pet-be-vegan-2018-8" data-views="" id="ad-62740">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pet owners need to know that healthy eating requires effort and attention to detail to make sure your animal is getting the proper nutrients and isn't developing dietary issues.</span></span></section><section class="post-content typography " data-post-type="post" data-track-content=""><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></section><section class="post-content typography " data-post-type="post" data-track-content=""><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Article Credit: <a href="https://www.thisisinsider.com/can-your-pet-be-vegan-2018-8">ThisIsInsider</a></span></span></section></article></div>
</section></section>JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3659806728214051683.post-24740323487352188942018-08-16T08:38:00.003-07:002020-01-22T08:45:13.665-08:00Unhealthy Air Quality: How to keep your pets safe from smog and fire haze<div class="speakable-p-2 p-text">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you live in a city with a high amount of smog (city toxins) and/or poor air quality? Limit outside exposure especially on days where air quality is measured to be at its poorest. Pet owners should also limit animals’ outdoor time if there are nearby wildfires. Wild fire smoke can spread rapidly and hang around for days if not weeks. Smoke inhalation can cause disorientation and confusion, fainting, lethargy and seizures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Both dogs and cats are at risk of respiratory issues, and doctors say certain animals are at heightened risk, especially puppies and older dogs, pets with asthma and bronchitis, and dogs with rounder faces and shorter noses (like bulldogs and Boston terriers).</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3659806728214051683" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tips to keep your pets safe:</span></strong></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Keep pets indoors with the windows closed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Use air conditioning to further filter the air, if possible.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Outdoor bathroom breaks should be kept short.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Avoid prolonged exercise.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Keep pets well hydrated.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Look for signs of respiratory stress and eye inflammation. If pets show symptoms, see a veterinarian immediately.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Urban farm animals (goats, chickens, rabbits) are less likely to become ill, as they are used to dusty conditions. However, it’s important to monitor them for abnormal behavior or symptoms of illness. Be sure to keep them sheltered from heat.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For homes that are smoky indoors due to the proximity to fires, consider keeping pets at a doggy day care or with a trusted friend who lives away from the area.</span></li>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Signs of respiratory stress include:</span></strong></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Difficulty breathing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Unusual or excessive coughing, sneezing, vomiting or loss of appetite</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Swelling or inflammation of the mouth, eyes, skin or upper airway</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Open-mouthed breathing, especially in cats</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Weakness/lethargy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Uncoordinated walking/unable to stand</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Increased salivation</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Owners should seek immediate veterinary care for their pets if they show any of the above symptoms.</span></div>
JMLhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13038017980625338121noreply@blogger.com0