Posted by: sarasotapet on: October 22, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Yes, it’s that time of year when the flood of cult cat sacrifice stories start piling up in the inbox, with that breathless “forward this to everyone you know!” tag line. (Note to my readers: Pet related or not, there has never been a message that should be forwarded to everyone you know. Trust me on this.)
Which means it’s also that time of year when I wish that the people who worry about cat sacrifices would instead worry about far more common and preventable holiday threats to our pets. Like the fact that chocolate, while a wonderful and healthful food for humans, is toxic to dogs and cats. Or that the sweetener xylitol, while beneficial to human blood sugar levels and dental health, can be fatal to dogs and cats even in very small quantities.
Veterinary toxicologist Dr. Steven Hansen of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center said that Halloween is to veterinarians what April 15 is to accountants.
“Calls about pets who have become ill after eating chocolate spike their highest around Halloween,” he said. “We manage several thousand of these calls every year.”
The problem with chocolate is that dogs and cats, unlike humans, are very sensitive to the caffeine-like substances it contains. The darker the chocolate, the greater the risk. While a single Hershey’s kiss won’t harm even a small dog, as little as four ounces of dark chocolate could cause seizures in, or even kill, a dog who weighs 40 pounds.
“Dogs are at much greater risk than cats,” said Hansen. “That’s because cats are really tasters rather than eaters, and they don’t normally enjoy sweets. But dogs will eat an entire bag of Halloween candy, wrappers and all, and end up with a very high dose of chocolate.”
Posted by: sarasotapet on: September 13, 2009
September 11, 2009
You love your pets. But even you have to admit, they are stinky, messy, hair-shedding little piles of love.
You put up with the dirt and grime they bring into your home because of what they bring into your heart. But that doesn’t mean you have to live in a pig pen just because you have pets. There are lots of new products out there that will take care of the hair, dirt and smell that pets also bring into your life.
Arm & Hammer has a new cat litter deodorizer spray that leaves that smelly fact of feline life a secret to anyone coming into your home.
It works on all kinds of litter and doesn’t affect clumping. It dries instantly and coats the litter. And it’s safe around pets. Arm & Hammer suggests using it every time you scoop, daily and to freshen box if you are expecting guests.
It comes in 16-ounce fluid bottles and sells for $3.49.
Arm & Hammer also has lots of tips for keeping a house with pets clean at www.armhammerpets.com.
And Dyson has a new handheld vacuum called the DC31 Animal that picks up all the hair left behind by your pets.
Unlike other handheld vacuums that lose power quickly, this one has a digital motor that spins five times faster than a Formula 1 race car engine, according to Dyson.
This handheld improves on the last one but has several of the same attachments, for rugs, and the great feature of a drop door to empty the dirt and hair you have collected. The lithium battery also recharges a lot faster than the previous model.
Start looking for it in the stores this month. It sells for about $269.99.
If you want to combine being green with being clean, there are also options.
Lots of people worry about their pets — who eat off the floor, lie on the floor and come into contact more closely with traditional household cleaners — getting exposed to harsh chemicals.
Clean + Green products may be the only eco-friendly aerosol pet cleaning products around, according to the company that makes them.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: September 5, 2009
By Katie McLain
September 5, 2009
A study conducted in June of this year revealed eight national brands of dog food contained fluoride in amounts between 1.6 and 2.5 times higher than the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) maximum legal dose in drinking water and may put dogs’ health in jeopardy.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in the Earth’s crust, rocks and soil as well as in bone meal and animal byproducts, which is the likely source of the contamination in this study. All eight brands contained one or more of chicken by-product meal, poultry by-product meal, chicken meal, beef and/or bone meal. A smaller amount of fluoride came from fluoridated tap water used to prepare the food at pet food plants.
Once ingested, fluoride accumulates in the bones. Topical application of fluoride is an effective way to prevent tooth decay, but excessive fluoride intake is thought to contribute to mottled teeth (dental fluorosis), weakened bones, reproductive and developmental system damage, neurotoxicity, hormonal disruption and bone cancer.
The most telling effect of the non-regulated status of dog foods lies in the numbers. Annually, there are 8000 reported cases of osteosarcoma (a rare but deadly form of bone cancer) in dogs in the United States. By contrast, there are only 900 human cases reported annually. That calculates to nearly 10 times as many osteosarcoma cases reported annually in dogs versus humans. While this is hardly damning evidence, it does seem to point to a correlation.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: September 1, 2009
You’ve probably heard the phrase “hair-pulling moment” in reference to stressful situations, but did you know that cats sometimes compulsively pull out their fur when they feel anxious? “Stress is a very big deal because it has a profound effect on all aspects of animals’ experience,” says Patricia B. McConnell, Ph.D., a certified applied animal behaviorist.
Stress can trigger feline reactions ranging in severity from hiding to self-mutilation. Just as humans often need support during tough times, our feline friends could use a “helping hand” when feeling anxious.
Is Stress Really That Serious?
When it comes to feline stress, a bit of it is actually a good thing. Predatory animals enjoy excitement, so your cat may relish the stimulation caused by a small amount of stress. But if stress increases dramatically, it can take a toll on your pet’s health. “Chronic stress suppresses the immune response, causing a broad range of illnesses,” explains McConnell. Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, for example, notes a link between stress and pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause abdominal pain and may lead to other health problems in your cat.
But health isn’t the only aspect of your cat’s life that can be affected by stress. Significant stress may also influence your cat’s behavior. Cats often develop fear-related responses to regular things, like hiding under the bed and not coming out. A stressed cat may also become more aggressive than usual, making playtime physically painful. Some cats even stop eating completely, while others eliminate outside the litter box, spray around the house, groom excessively and become restless.
But Why Is Kitty Stressed?
Cats enjoy familiarity and routine; therefore, change is the biggest culprit of feline stress. A change in your cat’s environment, whether it involves moving to a different home or bringing in a new housemate, can frighten your cat. Since social relationships are a defining part of your territorial cat’s life, any sign of an “intruder” may make kitty feel threatened and anxious.
While stress is often caused by outside factors, physical discomfort can contribute much stress to your cat too. Feeling pain without knowing why can be a terrifying experience for your feline. It’s important to consult your veterinarian in these situations.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 25, 2009
August 24, 2009
Despite advances in flea control products over the past several years, fleas continue to be one of the leading concerns for pets and pet owners.
Though there are many more options for controlling fleas than in the past, there are also a number of misconceptions that dog and cat owners believe about fleas and flea control.
Fleas on dogs and cats are no big problem?
This, obviously, is untrue. Fleas not only cause pain and discomfort for dogs and cats, they can also carry various diseases and cause numerous health issues for dogs, cats and their human owners.
One flea on a dog or cat probably just jumped on from another pet?
While it is possible for fleas to jump from one pet to another, most often once a host (dog or cat) is found, the flea will remain with that host for the entirety of its life. When a pet owner sees a flea on their dog or cat, that flea most likely hatched from within the pet’s environment.
One or two adult fleas is not a major infestation and should be easy to eradicate?
The fact is that adult fleas seen on a dog or cat are only the proverbial “tip of the iceberg”. Only 5% of the fleas found in the environment in which the infected dog or cat lives are actually found on the pet itself. The remaining 95% of the fleas are eggs, pupa and larval forms of the flea which are more likely to be found in dark protected places, such as within the carpeting, upholstery, even crevices in hardward or tile floors.
Finding no fleas on a pet means that pet cannot actually harbor fleas?
This also is not necessarily true. Unfortunately, dogs and especially cats are quite good at grooming themselves and removing fleas from their hair coat. However, this does not mean the fleas are not present and the pet is not being bitten by fleas. This is probably one of the most difficult concepts for pet owners to understand.
Pets that do not go outside cannot get fleas?
Unfortunately, fleas are quite good at finding their way indoors. They can hitchhike on people or other pets coming into the home. They can come through small holes in screens and doorways. Dogs and cats which are housed entirely indoors are not protected from flea infestations simply because they do not go outdoors.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 23, 2009
Few things are more terrifying for the pet owner than having their dog poisoned. Luckily, veterinarians are trained for such emergencies and with immediate and proper treatment, most pets can be saved. For the pet owner, taking precautionary measures to safeguard their pet can make the difference in their pet’s life.
In 2008, the Animal Poison Control identified the top ten pet household hazards. The number one poison hazard was the intentional or accidental ingestion of human drugs like Tylenol or anti-depressants with 79,585 cases in 2008. Second were pesticides, which accounted for 39,874 cases. Food was the third most common hazard with 11,290 cases, half of which were a result of chocolate. The rest of the top ten hazards were biological hazards (plants being most common), veterinary drugs (often misapplied or improperly dispensed by owners), cleaning products, chemical hazards, metals, cosmetics and personal care and general household hazards.
Medications are the biggest culprit of dog poisonings, with most pet owners not realizing a death hazard for their pet is lying right on their nightstand or inside their hand if they attempt to medicate their pet without veterinary supervision. Top pet drug poisons include over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications or anti inflammatory drugs, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve), which can cause serious problems even in small doses. Other common hazards are antidepressants, oral diabetes treatments, vitamins, diet drugs, pseudoephedrine (used in many cold and sinus products), ADHD medication, Fluorouracil (anti-cancer drug), Isoniazid (tuberculosis drugs), Baclofen (muscle relaxant) and Vitamin D derivatives.
Although adding beauty to the landscape or our yard, plants are also responsible for pet medical emergencies. The most common poisonous plants are lilies, marijuana, sago palm, tulip/ narcissus bulbs, azalea, oleander, castor bean, cyclamen, kalanchoe, yew, amaryllis, autumn crocus, chrysanthemum, english ivy, peace lily, pathos and schefflera.
Although human foods may seem innocent when slipped under the table to our pets, feeding people food can be a deadly mistake. The top food dangers are chocolate, coffee, caffeine, alcohol, avocado, macadamia nuts, grapes and raisins, yeast dough (expands when ingested causing extreme pain and rupturing of intestines or stomach), raw or undercooked meat, eggs and bones, Xylitol (an artificial sweetener used in baked goods), candy, gum, toothpaste, onions, garlic, chives, milk, fatty foods and salt.
Other common hazardous items are batteries, fabric softener sheets, post 1982 pennies (due to a high level of zinc), antifreeze, liquid potpourri, ice melting products, citronella candles, compost pile fertilizers and some fly, slug and snail baits.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 22, 2009
August, 19, 2009
The Winn Feline Foundation and Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health’s HomeAgain Pet Recovery Service have partnered to help lost cats reunite with owners. For every new cat microchipped and enrolled in HomeAgain from now until August, the company will donate $1 toward feline health research.
Less than 5 percent of lost cats are reunited with their owners once they are taken into a shelter, largely because there’s no way to determine who they belong to, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners.
“No question, microchipping saves lives, ensuring far more lost casts are reunited with their families,” said Susan Little, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, president of the Winn Feline Foundation.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 21, 2009
By Roschelle Heuberger, PhD
August 19, 2009
1. Banana
High in potassium (great for muscle and blood vessel function as well as for regulating the acidity of body fluids), fiber (a handy home remedy for the occasional bout of doggy diarrhea or constipation) and magnesium (important for energy transport and protein building in the body). Bananas have lots of pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), which helps metabolize proteins and regulates blood cell function so the blood can bring more oxygen to the brain and muscle. They also contain Vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage and helps build cartilage. Pup Prep: Mash a banana and mix it in with your dog’s food. Be forewarned that the compounds in bananas that make them smell banana-y are offensive to some canines.
2. Rutabaga
A sorely ignored veggie, similar to a turnip. Rutabagas are very good boiled and mashed. They’re available year-round in most grocery stores and keep well. Their high levels of Vitamin C, potassium and carotenoids (precursors to Vitamin A) aid eye health and maintenance of DNA activation in cells. They are also important in immune system function and have a number of lesser-known phytochemicals, which are shown to reduce the risk of several chronic diseases associated with aging. Pup Prep: Peel, boil and mash the rutabaga, then add a little bit of safflower or olive oil; these oils are not harmful to dogs, who need fats and handle them far better than do humans.
3. Sweet Potato
Loaded with nutrients, such as the carotenoids and Vitamin C, in addition to some lesser known antioxidants and phytochemicals. They are high in pyridoxine, potassium, fiber and magnesium. They also are good sources of copper, iron and manganese–all essential minerals that perform myriad functions in cells, from transporting oxygen to assisting in the assembly of proteins. Pup Prep: As with rutabaga, boil, mash and add a bit of good oil.
4. Flaxseeds
Small seeds–known for their alpha linolenic acid (ALA) content and benefits to coat, skin, bone and brain function–that pack a big nutritional punch. These seeds are also high in fiber and lignans (a fiber type), which may be beneficial for insulin action. They are a great source of manganese, pyridoxine, magnesium, phosphorus and copper. They also contain the B vitamin folate, which is important for cell regulation. Pup Prep: Grind fresh flaxseeds, which are nutty and crunchy; flaxseed oil is also available in most health food stores and contains a more concentrated amount of ALA. Add the ground seeds or a teaspoon of oil to your dog’s food and increase the nutrient density of any meal. (Note: Store in refrigerator to maintain freshness.)
5. Yogurt
Active cultures known as probiotics (necessary, friendly bacteria) help keep the bad bacteria away. Yogurt, which may improve gut function, contains a number of nutrients, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, Vitamin B12, potassium, zinc and iodine. It is also a fair source of other B vitamins such as riboflavin and pantothenic acid (required for enzyme action and energy production, as well as other cellular functions). Pup Prep: A dollop of non-fat yogurt is a great way to disguise some yucky medicines.
6. Salmon
Bursting with Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s do wonders for skin, coat and brain as well as limit inflammatory processes that cause arthritic pain and other chronic canine conditions. (If your dog has any of these conditions, ask your vet if fish oil in capsule form might help.) Salmon is also an excellent protein source, with many essential vitamins and minerals.* Pup Prep: When you’re cooking salmon steaks for yourself, toss a few extra on the barbie for your dog. Refrigerate or dehydrate the grilled chunks and serve them cold.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 20, 2009
August 19, 2009
Children who have pet cats are more able to understand medical procedures such as X-rays, injections and surgery, new research shows.
A study carried out by health psychologist Dr June McNicholas shows that children aged between 6 and 7 have a better understanding of health and illness if their families own a cat.
The research project, carried out for charity Cats Protection, found that:
Dr McNicholas said, “These results show that children who have cats gain a much greater awareness of health issues, often gained through their involvement in cat care routines including visits to the vet surgery.
“For many children, the health treatment of a pet cat may be more thoroughly explained to them than any treatment they, or a close family member, may receive from human medics.
Posted by: sarasotapet on: August 19, 2009
by Deborah Mitchell
August 18, 2009
With all the debate and commotion about health reform, let’s take a moment to remember the well-being of our animal companions as Pet Health Insurance Month approaches. In honor of the event, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) is sponsoring a nationwide contest, asking pet health insurance customers to choose their favorite veterinary practice from among the more than 20,000 in North America.
Pet Health Insurance Month was started four years ago by Petsecure, a Canadian-based pet health insurance company to raise awareness of the importance of securing health insurance as a part of responsible pet ownership. To further that effort, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association was formed in 2007. It members, according to its website, are “committed to educating and promoting to North American pet owners, the general public, and the veterinary industry, the values and benefits of pet health insurance.”
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about 60 percent of households in the United States have at least one dog, cat, bird, or other companion animal. Cats outnumbered dogs by about 10 million: there are more than 72 million pet dogs and nearly 82 million pet cats. People spend a lot on their pets, with projected 2009 expenditures for North America at more than $45 billion, with $25 billion going to veterinary care.
A pet health insurance policy has most of the same features of a human policy: annual premiums, deductibles, and a variety of coverage options. Pet plans are based on age, species, and pre-existing conditions (the animals cannot get away from it either). As in humans, some pet health insurance companies will refuse coverage to animals that have current medical conditions or a terminal illness. Some plans will not cover breeds that are prone to develops specific diseases common to the breed.
